2020 Transportation Growth Management Grant ApplicationInstructionsBe sure to download and review the 2020 application packet before filling out this grant application.

The application packet, additional resources, and examples of successful applications can be found on the TGM planning grants page.

You can save your progress and revisit this form at any time by clicking the "Save" button at the bottom of each page.

Applications must be received by July 31, 2020 at 11:59 p.m. (PDT)

Applicant informationInstructions: Complete this information for the applicant. Provide both a designated contact and an authorized representative (if different than the designated contact) for your entity. The authorized representative is someone who is authorized to make decisions and sign a funding agreement with ODOT should your project be chosen for funding.

Primary applicant jurisdictionCity of Salem

Mailing address555 Liberty Street SE, Room 325, Salem, Oregon 97301

Websitehttp://www.cityofsalem.net

Contact person nameJulie Warncke

Contact person titleTransportation Planning Manager

Contact phone(503) 588-6211

Contact emailjwarncke@cityofsalem.net

Would you like to receive TGM news and updates?I am already subscribed

Authorized representative name, if different from the applicant contact

Steve Powers

Authorized representative titleCity Manager

Phone(503) 588-6255

Emailspowers@cityofsalem.net

List other participating local jurisdictions (if any)List other participating local jurisdictions (if any)Participating local jurisdiction Providing match?

Project name and locationProject titleUrban Trails Implementation Plan

Project area: Using either of the two fields below, attach a map of the project area or describe the area your project is located in.

Option 1: Project area map Option 2: Project area descriptionSalem Portion of the Salem-Keizer Urban Growth Boundary

ODOT region (1-5)Region 2

ODOT Region Map

Type of grantCategory 1: Transportation System Planning

Summary description of projectPublic outreach has consistently identified urban trails as a priority in Salem. The City of Salem has adopted plans that call for a significant network of future off-street trails. Off-street paths are included in both the Salem Transportation System Plan and the Comprehensive Parks System Master Plan. A recent code amendment (SRC 800.065(4)) increased the City's ability to require connections to existing or planned paths and trails. This new code language has drawn attention to the need for more clarity in the hierarchy of trails, appropriate design standards, and guidelines for trail alignments. Action items include: differentiating between classifications of trails, similar to the classification of roadways; developing design standards; establishing implementation guidance; and possibly refining code language to support development requirements. The goal is to have a unified urban trail plan with clear priorities and a path towards implementation.

Project cost tableTGM funds requested

Consultant$154,000.00

Local reimbursement

Total TGM funds requested$154,000.00

Local match 12% minimum (calculated)$21,000.00

Match to be provided

Labor, supplies and services during project$21,000.00

Payment when Intergovernmental Agreement is signed

CertificationsCertificationsThis application was prepared by staff of the primary applicant or staff of one of the involved jurisdictions

Certifications checkboxBy checking this box, I certify that my organization listed above supports the proposed project, has the legal authority to pledge matching funds, and has the legal authority to apply for Transportation and Growth Management funds. I further certify that matching funds are available or will be available for the proposed project.

Eligibility requirements

Applications are reviewed on a pass/fail basis on each of the following three requirements.

Applications found to not meet each of these requirements will not be scored against the award criteria and will not be awarded a grant.

1. Clear transportation relationship

A proposed project must have a clear transportation relationship and produce transportation benefits. A project must entail analysis, evaluation and selection of alternatives, development of implementation actions, and public involvement that results in a long range transportation plan, land use plan, or other product that addresses a transportation problem, need, opportunity, or issue of local or regional

importance.

Certification: Clear transportation relationshipBy checking this box, I certify that the project meets this eligibility criterion.

2. Adoption of products to meet project objectives

A proposed project must include preparation of an adoption-ready product or products that lead to a local policy decision and that directly address the project objectives, such as a transportation system plan, comprehensive plan amendment, land use plan, code amendment, implementation program, or intergovernmental agreement. Projects are expected to include adoption hearings (or equivalent) by the governing body or to prepare products which will be adopted as part of a larger project.

Certification: Adoption of products to meet project objectivesBy checking this box, I certify that the project meets this eligibility criterion.

3. Support of local officials

A proposed project must clearly demonstrate that local officials, both the primary applicant and any co-applicants, understand the purpose of the grant application and support the project objectives. A resolution of support, meeting minutes, or authorized letter from the governing body of all applicants (e.g. City Council, Board of Commissioners, or Transit Board) must be submitted with the application to meet this requirement.

Upload your resolution, minutes or authorized letter from governing body of applying jurisdiction(s) here:SalemMayorLetter_David Helton - ODOT Reg. 2 re TGM Grant Application 200729.pdf

Award criteria

Criterion 1: Proposed project addresses a need and supports TGM objectives (up to 40 points)

The project clearly and effectively addresses a local or regional transportation or transportation-related land use issue, problem, need, or opportunity and will achieve one or more of the TGM objectives.

Application instructions and example responses can be found here.

Explain how your proposed project addresses a need and supports TGM objectivesPublic input has consistently identified a desire for a stronger network of off-street connections for people to pursue active transportation in and around Salem. People advocate for urban trails in the context of improving livability, supporting public health, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions from transportation. This input has recently been expressed through outreach conducted for the Our Salem planning process, which is working to update the Salem Area Comprehensive Policies Plan and land use map. The City has adopted policy language supporting creation of a network of trails or pathways.

Salem Transportation System Plan, Pedestrian System Element, Policy 2.4 Connecting Pathway Network:The City shall encourage the development of a connecting, multiuse pathway network, using linear corridors such as rivers, creeks, utility easements, and abandoned rail lines, using such programs as rail-banking, which complement and connect to the sidewalk, park, and transit systems.

Comprehensive Park System Master Plan, Policy 3.5:Create a citywide, multi-modal trail system that ties into existing transportation corridors, serves a variety of users, is accessible, is easy to navigate, and connects parks, schools, and other community facilities.

Salem has an adopted network of planned on- and off-street facilities for people walking and biking. The planned off-street network includes 90 miles of proposed off-street trails and shared-use paths compared to 26 miles of existing shared-use paths. The Comprehensive Park System Master Plan includes both Linear Parks and Connector Trails. Trails are also considered park amenities, including multi-use trails, pedestrian trails, and soft surface trails. A network of existing, planned, and potential trails is documented in Map 4: Proposed Trail System. The Salem Transportation System Plan includes a network of existing and planned shared use paths. There is significant overlap between the planned trails included in both the Parks and Transportation System Plans.

What is missing from both plans is a comprehensive and cohesive plan for implementing the trail system. The City’s adopted design standards have a standard for a Shared Use Path, but not all paths serve the same function. Some are primary routes, while others are secondary or tertiary routes. There is a need to review the overall network of planned trails and determine appropriate classifications and standards for implementation.

In 2019, the City amended its code requirements relating to pedestrian access to include the following requirement, SRC 800.065(a):

(4) Connection to existing or planned paths and trails. Where an existing path or planned path or trail identified in the Salem Transportation System Plan (TSP) or the Salem Comprehensive Parks System Master Plan passes through a development site, the path or trail shall:(A) Be constructed, and a public access easement or dedication provided; or(B) When no abutting section of the trail or path has been constructed on adjacent property, a public access easement or dedication shall be provided for future construction of the path or trail.

Other than the standard for a Shared Use Path, the City does not differentiate between paths or trails. This creates difficulties when attempting to implement the new code language. Questions have also been raised about what should be required when a planned section of path or trail connects to an existing sidewalk. These and other questions would be resolved through an Urban Trails Implementation Plan.

The Urban Trails Implementation Plan supports several of the TGM Program Objectives as described below.

TGM Objective 1Urban trails support transportation choices. In particular, an interconnected network of trails facilitates safe and convenient walking and biking in a manner that supports healthy, active lifestyles. The Urban Trails Implementation Plan will also incorporate an equity lens to ensure that the network is planned and implemented in a manner that supports historically underserved communities and those with limited options.

TGM Objective 2Urban trails help connect people to their neighborhoods and community centers. Refining the planned network of trails with clear guidance for implementation will support vibrant neighborhoods with safe and

accessible transportation options.

TGM Objective 5People enjoy using trails. Trails that connect people to destinations reduce the need for driving. An interconnected network of trails supports the City’s goals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from transportation. The Urban Trails Implementation Plan will move the City towards a transportation system that promotes environmental stewardship.

Criterion 2: Proposed project is timely and urgent (up to 25 points)

The application demonstrates timeliness and urgency. The project is needed now to:

address pressing local transportation and land use issues

make amendments to local plans or regulations necessitated by changes in federal regulations, state requirements or regional plans

make amendments to local plans or regulations necessitated by changes that were not anticipated in previous plans, including growth or lack of growth, changes in land-use patterns or changes in available funding

build on, complement or take a necessary step toward completing or implementing other high priority community initiatives, including Governor's Regional Solutions Team priority

resolve transportation or land use-related issues affecting the project readiness of local, regional or state transportation projects for which funding is expected to be obligated within the near future

Application instructions and example responses can be found here.

Explain how your proposed project is timely and urgentThis project is timely and urgent for three reasons:1. Implementing pedestrian access provisions of Unified Development Code;2. Momentum associated with Our Salem Planning Process;3. Reducing greenhouse gas emissions from transportation sources in support of Climate Action Plan (in development).As mentioned above, in 2019 the City amended its Unified Development Code to incorporate the following provision regarding pedestrian access into SRC 800.065(a):

(4) Connection to existing or planned paths and trails. Where an existing path or planned path or trail identified in the Salem Transportation System Plan (TSP) or the Salem Comprehensive Parks System Master Plan passes through a development site, the path or trail shall:(A) Be constructed, and a public access easement or dedication provided; or(B) When no abutting section of the trail or path has been constructed on adjacent property, a public access easement or dedication shall be provided for future construction of the path or trail.

This new code language has brought into focus the need for better definition with regards to different categories of trails and associated design standards. The Urban Trails Implementation Plan will develop a hierarchy of trails, review the existing planned trails to correctly assign planned trails to their intended function, and create appropriate design standards. The planning effort will include a review of the planned trial network to determine if additions, modifications, or deletions are needed.

In addition to the urgency associated with the new code language, this project is timely in responding to the public priority for trails that has been a consistent theme in the Our Salem planning process. The Our Salem vision is scheduled to be released for public review in the early fall. The theme of urban trails is

represented in the overarching priorities for Salem. Moving into a refinement plan for urban trails will build on the momentum gained from the Our Salem planning process. The Urban Trails Implementation Plan will take concepts and priorities expressed in recent community dialog and create a plan that will position the City to pursue implementation.

Finally, this planning process will align with the City’s Climate Action Plan that is currently in development. The Greenhouse Gas Community Inventory published in May 2019, reported that mobile sources account for over half (53 percent) of greenhouse gas emissions in Salem. The Urban Trails Implementation Plan will support the City’s efforts to encourage active transportation and reduce greenhouse gas emissions from trips by automobile. A key goal of an urban trail plan is to connect people to destinations, thus reducing the need for short-distance trips by car.

Criterion 3: Proposed project approach is reasonable (up to 20 points)

The application demonstrates a clear approach to achieving the expected outcome and includes consideration for adoption. Where substantial coordination with other local, regional, and state planning efforts will need to occur, the mechanisms and responsibilities for the coordination are clear.

Application instructions and example responses can be found here.

Explain how your proposed project approach is reasonableThe following outline represents the City’s proposed approach to completing the Salem Urban Trails Implementation Plan. As evidenced by the letters of support submitted in support of this project, there will be strong community interest. The project will also be coordinated internally with other departments and sections. We anticipate most of the deliverables being produced by the consultant with significant involvement and oversight from City staff.

• Task 1 – Project Managemento Kick-off meetingo Develop Public Involvement Plan TAC CAC Virtual Public Workshops Outreach to established groups Outreach to under-represented populationso PMT meetings o Progress Reports

• Task 2 – Review and summarize existing conditions and planso Review adopted TSP for planned trails and relevant policieso Review adopted Parks System Master Plan for planned trails and relevant policieso Create map showing network of existing and planned trails, including condition of existing network (surface type, width, etc.); include walkwayso Differentiate ownership of existing trail network (right-of-way vs. City-owned vs. other)o Identify gaps in trail network

• Task 3 – Develop Urban Trail Policies and Trail Classification Schemeo Propose policy framework for urban trail networko Propose draft trail classification scheme o Seek public input on trail classification scheme and policies

• Task 4 – Prepare Trail Classification Mapso Using adopted trail network and trail classification scheme, propose trail classification map

o Propose amendments to trail network to address identified gapso Conduct public outreach on trail classification maps West Salem Central Salem South Salem Southeast Salem North Salem Northeast Salemo Prepare recommended trail classification map, including modifications to planned trail alignments if needed based on public input.

• Task 5 – Document trail development strategieso Review existing funding sources and code requirements associated with trail developmento Document different means for expanding trail network, including funding sources and development requirementso Recommend policies or codes that would support expansion of the trail network

• Task 6 – Prioritize trail networko Develop evaluation criteria for prioritizing development of the trail network specifically incorporating criteria to address underserved communitieso Prepare draft trail project prioritization o Seek public input on draft trail project prioritizationo Finalize trail network prioritization

• Task 7 – Prepare Final Urban Trails Implementation Plan & Adopto Prepare Draft Urban Trails Implementation Plano Present to TAC and CACo Public Outreach (virtual)o Adoption Draft Urban Trails Implementation Plano Identify and draft amendments needed to TSP and Parks Master Plan (policies, maps, and projects)o Finalize code amendments to support implementiono Conduct public hearings (Planning Commission and/or City Council)o Produce final Urban Trails Implementation Plan

Criterion 4: Proposed project has community support (up to 5 points)

The application demonstrates that there is local support for project objectives, a commitment to participate, and a desire to implement the expected outcome.

Application instructions and example responses can be found here.

Upload letters of support from stakeholders here350Salem.pdf

Cherriots.pdf

MarionCountyLetter of Support.pdf

MorningsideNeighborhoodAssociation.pdf

NortheastNeighbors.pdf

SafeRoutesPartnershipPacificNW.pdf

SalemBicycleClub.pdf

Salem-KeizerSafeRoutestoSchool.pdf

SalemParksFoundation.pdf

SoutheastSalemNeighborhoodAssociation.pdf

SouthwestAreaNeighbors.pdf

TravelSalem.pdf

Planning Commission - Urban Trails Implementation Plan Letter of Support.pdf

Criterion 5: Proposed project sponsor readiness and capacity (up to 10 points)

The application demonstrates that the local government is ready and able to begin the project within the TGM timetable and that there is local commitment and capability to manage and complete the project. The application demonstrates, if applicable, successful performance on previous TGM projects.

Application instructions and example responses can be found here.

Explain how proposed project sponsor is ready and capableThe project will be managed by Julie Warncke, Transportation Planning Manager, in the Public Works Department, with support from Anthony Gamallo, Senior Transportation Planner. Management will be closely coordinated with the Parks Planning staff, including Patricia Farrell, Parks and Natural Resources Manager (who is also managing the Climate Action Plan), and Park Planners Robert Romanek and Toni Whitler. Both Julie and Anthony have experience managing projects funded through the Transportation and Growth Management Program. The project will be coordinated with staff from the Community Development Department, including Eunice Kim, who is leading the Our Salem planning project.

Projects within the last 10 years:2B-15 Winter-Maple Bikeway and Pedestrian Plan (Public Works lead)Plan was adopted April 9, 2018. Some of the elements have been implemented, including speed reduction to 20 mph in the residential section; Neighborhood Greenway sign toppers installed; stop sign modifications; and street crossing improvements at two intersections with minor arterial streets (Fairground Road and Pine Street).

2D-14 State Street Corridor Plan (Community Development lead)Plan adopted summer 2018, including new street cross section and new mixed-use zoning. Funding has been secured to improve pedestrian crossings as three locations along corridor.

2B-13 Commercial Street SE/Liberty Road S Refinement Plan (Public Works lead)Plan accepted by Council August 2017. Funding received for implementing buffered bike lanes, bike signal

and one pedestrian crossing. Construction scheduled for 2022.

2I-10 Parking Management Plan (Community Development lead)Plan was accepted by City Council and code amendments were adopted.

2F-09 Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan Update and Safe Routes to School Plan (Public Works lead)Plan completed and amendments adopted to the Salem Transportation System Plan December 2012.

Required formsTitle VI: Racial & Ethnic Impact Statement formRacial-Ethnic-Impact-Statement_City of Salem.pdf

Download the Racial & Ethnic Impact Statement form here

Today's date7/30/2020

If you encounter any issues with the submittal process, please contact:

Abigail EricksonPlanning Section Web CoordinatorAbigail.ERICKSON@odot.state.or.us

July 10, 2020 David Helton ODOT Region 2 Transportation and Growth Management Program Lead Grant Manager 2080 Laura Street Springfield, OR 97477 Dear Mr. Helton, I am writing to express my enthusiastic support for the City of Salem’s grant application to fund an Urban Trails Implementation Plan. Urban Trails are an important element of the transportation system, creating opportunities for people to walk and bike to destinations away from busy traffic. Increased walking and bicycling trips help to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions and resultant climate change. Trails also play a role in supporting public health goals, and frequently provide more options for pedestrian and bicycle access to public transportation services. The City has a strong network of trails in certain parts of the city, including Minto Brown Island Park and Riverfront Park. The trail network is more fragmented in most other areas of the City. The City’s adopted plans call for many miles of new or upgraded trails connecting people to destinations. What is important now is to have a plan that will guide implementation and help target allocation of limited resources. This plan also needs to address implications for property owners who might have a future trail identified across their property. My organization looks forward to participating in developing an Urban Trails Implementation Plan that works for the City of Salem and its citizens. Sincerely, Stephen Dickey Director of Strategic Initiatives and Program Management Steve.dickey@cherriots.org Direct: (503) 361-2552

Monday, July 20, 2020

David Helton ODOT Region 2 Transportation and Growth Management Program Lead Grant Manager 2080 Laura Street Springfield, OR 97477

Dear Mr Helton,

Our Morningside Neighborhood Association Board welcomes the opportunity to support Salem’s Transportation and Growth Management grant application. We look forward to working with ODOT, the City and our entire Neighborhood Association network to establish an Urban Trails Implementation Plan.

The coronavirus isolates us and requires us to wear masks; two major obstacles to “connectedness”. But socialization is vital to community life. We believe urban trails are the best way for more citizens to be more connected more of the time.

This was evident from the five Safe Routes projects that were enthusiastically shared among a Community Partnership Team here in Salem a few months ago. Neighborhoods were invited to work with staff to research and identify safe routes to schools and parks.

Recently Salem adopted code for how and where urban trails may be built within the Transportation System Plan and the Comprehensive Parks System Master Plan. Now we are in an ideal position to make the best use of a grant that helps us fund and follow through with a unified urban trail plan for the future.

Through the years the City has honored the policy of having a wide range of transportation options including urban trails, now we are ready for more.

Sincerely,

Sincerely, Pamela Schmidling, Chair Morningside Neighborhood Association

July 21, 2020 David Helton ODOT Region 2 Transportation and Growth Management Program Lead Grant Manager 2080 Laura Street Springfield, OR 97477 Dear Mr. Helton, The board of the Northeast Neighbors Neighborhood Association supports the City of Salem’s grant application to fund an Urban Trails Implementation Plan. Urban trails create spaces for people to walk and bike away from busy traffic. Increased walking and bicycling trips help mitigate greenhouse gas emissions and climate change. More opportunities for walking and biking are also important for our community’s health. During this pandemic especially, we have seen how important urban trails are for people’s physical and emotional well-being. Certain parts of the city have a strong network of trails, including Minto Brown Island Park and Riverfront Park, and are heavily used. However, the trail network is fragmented in most other areas of the City, limiting transportation and recreational opportunities for many residents. The City’s adopted plans call for many miles of new or upgraded trails connecting people to destinations. What is important now is to have a plan that will guide implementation, identify missing connections, and help allocate limited resources. This plan also needs to address implications for property owners who might have a future trail identified across their property. NEN looks forward to participating in developing an Urban Trails Implementation Plan that works for the City of Salem and its residents. Thank you, Lynn Takata Northeast Neighbors (NEN) Chair 503-970-1319

July 9, 2020 David Helton ODOT Region 2 Transportation and Growth Management Program Lead Grant Manager 2080 Laura Street Springfield, OR 97477 Dear Mr. Helton, On behalf of the Safe Routes Partnership, I am pleased to offer our enthusiastic support for the City of Salem’s grant application to fund an Urban Trails Implementation Plan. The Safe Routes Partnership advocates for policies and plans that support regional investments in active transportation and healthy community design. Urban Trails are an important element of the transportation system, creating opportunities for people to safely walk, bike and roll in their community. Increased walking and bicycling trips help to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions and resultant climate change. Trails also play a role in supporting public health goals, with increased opportunities for physical activity and improved air quality. The City of Salem has a strong network of trails in certain parts of the city, including Minto Brown Island Park and Riverfront Park. The trail network is more fragmented in most other areas of the City. The City’s adopted plans call for many miles of new or upgraded trails connecting people to destinations. What is important now is to have a plan that will guide implementation and help target allocation of limited resources. This plan also needs to address implications for property owners who might have a future trail identified across their property. I look forward to participating on behalf of the Safe Routes Partnership in developing an Urban Trails Implementation Plan that improves safe access and connectivity in Salem, with a priority for people of all ages and abilities in low-income communities and communities of color. Thank you for your consideration of this important project. Sincerely, Becky Gilliam Pacific Northwest Regional Policy Manager, Safe Routes Partnership becky@saferoutespartnership.org

David Helton July 13,2020

ODOT Region 2

2080 Laura St.

Springfield, OR 97477

Dear Mr. Helton,

We are writing to express our unified support for the City of Salem’s

grant application to fund an Urban Trails Implementation Plan. Trails

are an important component of the transportation system which

creates opportunities for people to walk and bike to places away

from busy traffic.

Our club supports efforts like Open Streets, the League of American

Bicyclists, bike signage, Bicycle Friendly communities, and

additional bike lanes to improve safety. These efforts help reduce air

pollution, make for fewer harmful chemicals, improve bicycle safety,

and personal health through bicycle riding. Off street bike trails

support meeting these goals.

Salem has a strong network of trails in certain parts of the city which

includes Minto Brown Island Park and Riverfront Park. In other parts

it is more fragmented. The city’s adopted plan calls for many miles

of up graded and new trails. What is important now is to have a plan

that will help target our limited resources. This approach also

should address questions of property owners who could have a

future trail identified through their property.

Our organization anticipates of the development of the Urban Trails

Implementation Plan. This plan should be functional for the city and

its citizens.

Sincerely,

James Ross, Salem Bicycle Club

July 7, 2020

David Helton

ODOT Region 2

Transportation and Growth Management Program Lead Grant Manager

2080 Laura Street

Springfield, Oregon 97477

Dear Mr. Helton,

The Southwest Association of Neighbors (SWAN) in Salem is very supportive of the

City of Salem’s grant application for funding an Urban Trails Implementation Plan.

The benefits of an Urban Trail Network are many and are an important part of a city wide

transportation system where residents can walk and bike in a safer fashion away from

traffic.

Our neighborhood association members have a history of supporting efforts to get people

out of their cars by finding alternative means for travel to work or ways for children to

get to school safely without being dropped off or picked up by car. Our members have

even organized regular events to encourage people to simply walk and discover their

neighborhoods. Implementation of an urban trail network in Salem would strongly

compliment the existing efforts of those who support Safe Routes to School or the Just

Walk organization.

Urban trail networks can connect people to places and Salem has a strong start on a trail

network. Salem currently has connections from Riverfront Park to Minto Brown Island

Park and West Salem’s Wallace Marine Park. Other parts of our city need this type of

connectivity as well and the funding of an Urban Trail Implementation Plan could greatly

benefit both residents of Salem and those who come to visit with citywide, off trafficked

streets, pedestrian and bicycle friendly connectivity.

Salem has adopted plans for miles of new or upgraded trails to improve pedestrian and

bicycle travel away from traffic thereby increasing safety, supporting public health and

encouraging neighborhood connections. We realize this plan needs standards for design,

trail prioritization and implementation. The award of grant funding from the ODOT

TGM program for an Urban Trails Implementation Plan could greatly benefit this

endeavor and SWAN would look forward to participation in this plan.

Thank you for your consideration of the City of Salem’s grant application to fund an

Urban Trails Implementation Program,

Sincerely,

The Southwest Association of Neighbors (SWAN) Salem. Oregon

Jeanine Stice, Chair

Ted Burney, Land Use Chair

388 State Street, Ste.100. Salem OR 97301 503-581-4325 www.TravelSalem.com

July 1, 2020

David Helton ODOT Region 2 Transportation and Growth Management Program Lead Grant Manager 2080 Laura Street Springfield, OR 97477

Dear Mr. Helton,

I am writing to express my enthusiastic support for the City of Salem’s grant application to fund an Urban Trails Implementation Plan. Urban Trails are an important element of the transportation system, creating opportunities for people to walk and bike to destinations away from busy traffic. Increased walking and bicycling trips help to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions and resultant climate change. Trails also play a role in supporting public health goals, as well as serving as a key amenity that appeals to visitors and contributes to responsible tourism development.

The City has a strong network of trails in certain parts of the city, including Minto Brown Island Park and Riverfront Park. The trail network is more fragmented in most other areas of the City. The City’s adopted plans call for many miles of new or upgraded trails connecting people to destinations. What is important now is to have a plan that will guide implementation and help target allocation of limited resources. This plan also needs to address implications for property owners who might have a future trail identified across their property.

My organization looks forward to participating in developing an Urban Trails Implementation Plan that works for the City of Salem and its citizens.

Sincerely,

Kara Kuh Assistant Director of Marketing & Public Relations Travel Salem

July 22, 2020

David Helton

Transportation and Growth Management Program Lead Grant Manager

ODOT Region 2

2080 Laura Street

Springfield OR 97477

Dear Mr. Helton:

The Salem Planning Commission supports the City of Salem’s grant application to fund an

Urban Trails Implementation Plan. Urban Trails are an important element of the transportation

system, creating opportunities for people to walk and bike to destinations away from busy traffic.

Increased walking and bicycling trips help to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions and resultant

climate change. Trails also play a role in supporting public health goals.

The City has a strong network of trails in certain parts of the city, including Minto Brown Island

Park, the downtown Riverfront Park, and Wallace Marine Park. The trail network is more

fragmented in most other areas of the City. The City’s adopted plans call for many miles of new

or upgraded trails connecting people to destinations. What is important now is to have a plan that

will guide implementation and help target allocation of limited resources. This plan also needs to

address design standards for different classifications of trails and clarify when trail construction

can be a condition of a land use decision.

The Salem Planning Commission looks forward to participating in developing an Urban Trails

Implementation Plan that works for the City of Salem and its citizens.

Sincerely,

JP\\fileshare2\PWGroup\director\Judy\2020 Corresp\Planning Commission - Urban Trails Implementation Plan Letter of Support Draft.docx

RACIAL AND ETHNIC IMPACT STATEMENT This form is used for informational purposes only and must be included with the grant application.

Chapter 600 of the 2013 Oregon Laws require applicants to include with each grant application a racial and ethnic impact statement. The statement provides information as to the disproportionate or unique impact the proposed policies or programs may have on minority persons1 in the State of Oregon if the grant is awarded to a corporation or other legal entity other than natural persons.

1. The proposed grant project policies or programs could have a disproportionate or unique positive impact onthe following minority persons:

Indicate all that apply:

Women Asians or Pacific Islanders Persons with Disabilities American Indians African-Americans Alaskan Natives Hispanics

2. The proposed grant project policies or programs could have a disproportionate or unique negative impact onthe following minority persons:

Indicate all that apply:

Women Asians or Pacific Islanders Persons with Disabilities American Indians African-Americans Alaskan Natives Hispanics

3. The proposed grant project policies or programs will have no disproportionate or unique impact on minoritypersons.

If you checked numbers 1 or 2 above, please provide below the rationale for the existence of policies or programs having a disproportionate or unique impact on minority persons in this state. Further provide evidence of consultation with representative(s) of the affected minority persons.

By checking this box, I hereby certify the information contained on this Dated: form is true, complete, and accurate to the best of my knowledge.

Printed Name: Title:

Agency Name:

1 “Minority person” are defined in SB 463 (2013 Regular Session) as women, persons with disabilities (as defined in ORS 174.107), African Americans, Hispanics, Asians, or Pacific Islanders, American Indians and Alaskan Natives.