item #15: minutes of hrtpo committee meetings a. … of hrtpo... · hrtpo board meeting │ may 15,...

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HRTPO Board Meeting │ May 15, 2014 │ Agenda ITEM #15: MINUTES OF HRTPO COMMITTEE MEETINGS A. PASSENGER RAIL TASK FORCE The summary minutes of the February 13, 2014 meeting of the HRTPO Passenger Rail Task Force are attached. Attachment 15-A B. FREIGHT TRANSPORTATION TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE The summary minutes of the April 1, 2014 meeting of the HRTPO Freight Transportation Advisory Committee are attached. Attachment 15-B C. TRANSPORTATION TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE The summary minutes of the April 2, 2014 meeting of the HRTPO Transportation Technical Advisory Committee are attached. Attachment 15-C

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Page 1: ITEM #15: MINUTES OF HRTPO COMMITTEE MEETINGS A. … of HRTPO... · HRTPO Board Meeting │ May 15, 2014 │ Agenda ITEM #15: MINUTES OF HRTPO COMMITTEE MEETINGS . A. PASSENGER RAIL

HRTPO Board Meeting │ May 15, 2014 │ Agenda

ITEM #15: MINUTES OF HRTPO COMMITTEE MEETINGS A. PASSENGER RAIL TASK FORCE

The summary minutes of the February 13, 2014 meeting of the HRTPO Passenger Rail Task Force are attached. Attachment 15-A

B. FREIGHT TRANSPORTATION TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE

The summary minutes of the April 1, 2014 meeting of the HRTPO Freight Transportation Advisory Committee are attached.

Attachment 15-B

C. TRANSPORTATION TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE

The summary minutes of the April 2, 2014 meeting of the HRTPO Transportation Technical Advisory Committee are attached.

Attachment 15-C

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Summary Minutes of the HRTPO Passenger Rail Task Force Meeting

February 13, 2014

The HRTPO Passenger Rail Task Force Meeting was called to order at 10:04 a.m. in the Regional Board Room, 723 Woodlake Drive, Chesapeake, Virginia, with the following in attendance:

Members: Timothy C. Cross, YK LJ Hansen, SU Michael King, NN Alexander Metcalf, TEMS Jeff Raliski, NO

Emily Stock, DRPT (via teleconference) Julie Timm, HRT Jackson C. Tuttle II, WM Susan Wilson, PO

Members Absent: W. Keith Cannady, HA Kevan Danker, WATA Anne Ducey-Ortiz, GL Sherry Early, SU Paul Fraim, NO John Friedmann, NSCorp Marc Hoecker, NSCorp Jay McArthur, AMTRAK Allen Murphy, Jr., JC

Reed Nester, WM Jamie Oliver, IW Kevin Page, DRPT Bryan Rhode, CSX Mark Shea, VB Thomas G. Shepperd, YK C. Earl Sorey, Jr., CH Kenneth I. Wright, PO Kevin Wyne, PQ

HRTPO Staff: Dwight Farmer Arkopal Goswami Jessica M. Nappi

Camelia Ravanbakht Chris Wichman

Other Participants: Jim Bayley, VA Assoc. of Railway Patrons Barry Bishop, Greater Norfolk Corporation Will Christopher, HRPTA John Edwards, Norfolk Southern Brad Face, Greater Norfolk Corporation Paul Filion, NO

Robbyn Gayer, Future Hampton Roads Tim Kerr, Chesapeake Alliance Steve Lambert, CH Derek J. Piper, Parsons Brinckerhoff Scott Plum, Norfolk Southern Eric Stringfield, VDOT

Attachment 15-A

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1. CALL TO ORDER

The meeting was called to order by Acting Chair Tuttle at 10:04 a.m.

2. PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD There were no public comments.

3. SUBMITTED PUBLIC COMMENTS

There were no submitted public comments.

4. APPROVAL OF AGENDA Chair Tuttle asked for additions or deletions to the agenda. Mr. King Moved to approve the agenda, seconded by Ms. Wilson. The Motion Carried.

5. VIRGINIA DEPARTMENT OF RAIL AND PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION: MAJOR

PASSENGER RAIL INITIATIVES Ms. Stock briefed the Passenger Rail Task Force on several major passenger rail initiatives in the Commonwealth, including the following highlights:

• Intercity Passenger Rail Operating and Capital Fund (IPROC) o IPROC established the first dedicated funding source for intercity

passenger rail in the Commonwealth; approximate revenues in the first year around $44.3M with $56.1M projected by year five.

o Virginia was fully funded and the first state to execute the Section 209 Regional State Supported Service agreement with Amtrak.

• DRPT Rail Grants

o DRPT opened grant season for Rail Enhancement Fund, Rail Industrial Access Fund and Rail Preservation Fund.

• Southeast High Speed Rail: Tier II Richmond Area to Potomac River

Segment and Raleigh Segment (expected to finish in 2014 ROD and FEIS) o The Virginia-North Carolina Interstate High Speed Rail Compact held a

meeting January 7, 2014. o Discussed updating the Service Development Plan for rail service in the

SEHSR corridor (which includes Hampton Roads). o Next meeting is scheduled for Summer 2014.

6. HAMPTON ROADS PASSENGER RAIL STUDY – PHASE 2B DRAFT REPORT

Dr. Metcalf briefed the Task Force on the draft results of the Phase 2B Hampton Roads Vision Plan Alternatives Analysis report. Dr. Metcalf indicated that while the Hampton Roads segment is part of the Southeast High Speed Rail corridor, the Norfolk-Richmond segment has a strong affinity with the Northeast Corridor.

Attachment 15-A

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Dr. Metcalf reminded the Committee that the objectives of the study are based off of the October 2009 HRTPO Board resolution, which endorsed the designation of a high speed rail route along the Norfolk Southern/US 460 corridor and called for enhancement of existing intercity passenger rail service along the CSX/ I-64 corridor. He explained that the HRTPO Board objectives are complementary to the incremental improvements to conventional passenger rail service being taken by DRPT; the Phase 2B study focuses on high speed service on the Southside from Norfolk to Richmond. He indicated that the Norfolk-Richmond-Washington D.C. segment has per mile population densities comparable to high speed rail corridors around the country.

With regard to train technology, Dr. Metcalf emphasized that high speed rail technology (speeds, efficiency) has improved dramatically since 2009. The latest development includes hybrid trains (electric and diesel) that allow for speeds up to 220 mph where electrification infrastructure is available and speeds of 130 mph when diesel engines are engaged. He remarked that the hybrid technology allows for some flexibility in constructing tracks and related infrastructure. Dr. Metcalf outlined the five route alternatives considered in the study:

• Southern Greenfield Option 1A • Southern Shared NS Option 1B • Northern Greenfield Option 2A • Northern Shared NS Option 2B • Richmond Direct Greenfield Option 3

Dr. Metcalf summarized the results of the ridership forecast, with all route options showing fairly comparable results; however, for all options the 220 mph options showed greater ridership than the 130 mph options. He also summarized the revenue forecast; again all route options showed fairly comparable results with the 220 mph options having greater revenues than the 130 mph options. He stated that the financial and economic analysis found the 220 mph Richmond Direct Greenfield Option 3 to have the highest operating ratio and cost-benefit ratio. He emphasized that the financial and economic results are important evidence to justify infrastructure investments from either the federal/state government or the private sector.

He revealed an Option 4 Richmond Direct Improved, which was added to the study late in the process as it became apparent that a relatively low-cost high speed rail link to existing Peninsula passenger rail service would increase ridership/revenue, strengthen financial and economic results, and meet the HRTPO Board objectives for both the Peninsula and the Southside. Dr. Metcalf explained that this option has not been studied to the same degree as options 1-3 and a more detailed environmental/engineering analysis would require some additional data collection.

He concluded with next steps including: public comment period on draft report, presentation of results to the HRTPO Board at its March 20, 2014 meeting, and

Attachment 15-A

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potential Passenger Rail Task Force recommendation to further study phases (Phase 2B Supplement, Service Development Plan). Mr. King Moved that Option 4 be further analyzed to determine the viability of the option and recommended the HRTPO pursue a Phase 2B Supplement to analyze route options on the Peninsula. Mr. Cross seconded.

Mr. Farmer suggested that the Passenger Rail Task Force recommendation include: acceptance of the Phase 2B draft report, approval of public distribution of the Phase 2B draft report, and recommend authorization of the Executive Director to pursue a supplemental study of Option 4. Dr. Metcalf estimated the cost of a Phase 2B Supplement to be approximately $50,000.

Chair Tuttle asked if the motion as restated by Mr. Farmer was acceptable as a modification. Mr. King and Mr. Cross agreed to the suggested changes.

Chair Tuttle asked for any discussion on the motion. Mr. Hansen requested that future studies reduce the number of options rather than continuing to increase the number of routes. Hearing no additional comments, Chair Tuttle called for approval of the motion. The Motion Carried.

7. OLD/NEW BUSINESS

Ms. Timm announced that HRT will hold three public meetings in February related to the Naval Station Norfolk Transit Extension Study.

ADJOURNMENT There being no more business before the Passenger Rail Task Force, the meeting was adjourned at 11:55 a.m.

Attachment 15-A

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HRTPOFreightTransportationAdvisoryCommittee(FTAC) April1,2014MeetingMinutes

FreightTransportationAdvisoryCommitteeoftheHRTPOMeetingMinutesApril1,2014

TheVirginiaPortAuthority

101WMainSt.,#600,Norfolk,VA2351011:00am–12:30pm

1. CALLtoORDERCo‐ChairmanArtMoyecalledtheHRTPOFreightTransportationAdvisoryCommittee(FTAC)toorderat11:00a.m.intheVirginiaPortAuthorityBoardRoom.Mr.FlorinintroducedKarenMcPherson,whoistakingAndyHecker’splaceasFTACstaff.Thefollowingwereinattendance:

MEMBERS:AmyBrown(CrossGlobeGroup)ArtMoye(VirginiaMaritimeAssociation)ChrisLuebbers(NorfolkSouthern)ChrisStolle(VirginiaGeneralAssembly)KeithHelton(GivensTransportation)MikeAbbott(COSCOContainerLines,Inc.)RickMorris(CanonVirginiaInc.)

STAFF:ArkopalGoswami(HRTPO)AllisonMall(Moffatt&Nichol)CameliaRavanbakht(HRTPO)JeffFlorin(VPA)KarenMcPherson(McPhersonConsulting)KendallMiller(HRTPO)RobCase(HRTPO)SamBelfield(HRTPO)

PUBLIC:JeffRaliski(CityofNorfolk)

Attachment 15-B

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HRTPOFreightTransportationAdvisoryCommittee(FTAC) April1,2014MeetingMinutes

2. PUBLICCOMMENTPERIODDr.JosephH.DiscenzahassubmittedapubliccommenttoFTAC.HeproposestoconstructanautomaticcontainershuttlecarrailsystempluscargotunnelbetweenNITandCraneyIsland.ThisideaisaimedateasingtruckcongestionintheMidtownTunnel.Mr.FlorindiscussedtheconstructionandengineeringfactorsrelatedtothisideaandsaidthatitwouldbeconsideredbyVPAengineers.FTACstaffwilldraftaresponsetoMr.Discenza.

3. APPROVALOFPREVIOUSMEETING’SMINUTESMr.MoyenotedtheminutesoftheJanuary3rd,2014FTACmeetingandaskedforrevisions.Therebeingnone,Mr.MikeAbbottmovedtheminutesbeapprovedassubmitted.DelegateChrisStollesecondedthemotion,andtheminuteswereunanimouslyapproved.

REGULARAGENDA:4. HAMPTONROADSTRANSPORTATIONACCOUNTABILITYCOMMISSION

Mr.FlorinexplainedthattheHamptonRoadsTransportationAccountabilityCommission(HRTAC)hassupportfrombothchambersoftheGeneralAssembly,theGovernor'soffice,localofficialsandlocalbusinessleaders.Oncelegislationisapproved,theCommissionwillmanageprojectsfundedbythenewHamptonRoadsTransportationFund(HRTF)andwillbeempoweredtoissuebonds.TheHRTACwouldalsoprovideoversightforkeyregionalprojectsadvancedwiththoseregionalfunds.DelegateStolleinformedtheCommitteethattheGovernorhasuntilnextMondaytoapproveormakerecommendationstotheHRTAClegislationbeforesigningthebudget.HedescribedhowtheCommissionisdesignedtoalignwiththeHRTPO,andalthoughtherehasbeensomeoppositionfromthepublicwhoseeitas“justanotherlayerofgovernment,”heisconfidentthatitwillbegoodfortheregion,withtollingauthorityandPPTAproposalsneedingapprovalfromtheCommissiontoproceed.NorthernVirginiahashadasimilarCommissioninplacesince2002.Ms.RavanbakhtexplainedthatHRTPOstaffisworkingwithVDOTandSecretaryLayne’sofficeontheformationoftheCommitteeandwillsoonmeetwiththeDeputySecretaryofTransportationtodevelopbylaws.

Attachment 15-B

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HRTPOFreightTransportationAdvisoryCommittee(FTAC) April1,2014MeetingMinutes

5. ECONOMICIMPACTANALYSISFORFREIGHTMOVEMENTINHAMPTONROADSOneofFTAC’sinitiativesistoconductaneconomicimpactanalysisforfreightmovementtodeterminetheimpact/tippingpointoftollsandothereconomicfactorsontheregion.FTACapprovedthestudyin2011,andtheHRTPOallocatedRSTPfundingforit,throughVPA.AwardingacontractforthestudyhasbeencontinuouslystalledduetolegislativeandpoliticalissuesbuthasnowbeenawardedtoCambridgeSystematics,Inc.Mr.FlorindeliveredapresentationdevelopedbyCambridgetotheCommittee.HeexplainedthattheyjustreceivedtheNoticetoProceedandbeganworkingonthestudythisweek.Theprojectteamconsistsoffourcompanies.CambridgeSystematicswillconductstakeholderinterviews,freightandtradeanalysis,andeconomicmodeling.Delcanwillprovidefreightflowdataandanalysisandtransportcostanalysis(butwillnotexposethenameoftheshippersintheirdata).TranSystemswilldolocalstakeholderoutreachandregionaltransportationsystemanalysis.ChengSolutionswilldotheeconomicdevelopmentanalysisfortheStudy.TheStudyaimstoanswerthequestion:Arethebenefitsofimprovingthesystemgreaterthanorlessthantheimpactofincreasingtaxesandfeestopaytoforit?Theprojectworkplanhasfivekeycomponents:

1) TravelDemandModelingtoassesstheexistingandfutureoperatingconditionsoftheregion’stransportationsystem.Thismodelingwillestablishvolumes,traveltimes,distances,congestionslevelsandreliabilityissues.

2) EconomicDevelopmentAnalysistoassessthetrendsimpactingindustriesmostreliantonfreightandthePort.ThisincludesnotonlyindustriesintheHamptonRoadsregionbutalsothetop10origin‐destinationclustersforporttraffic.

3) FreightandLogisticsProfilefortheregionandthePort.Thiswillincludeexaminingcommodityflowdata,includingaproprietarydatasourceavailablethroughDelcan.Thisdataaswellasdatafromtheotherstepswillbevettedandenhancedviastakeholderinterviews.

4) FundingAlternativeswithafocusontheproposedtolls.5) AnEconomicAssessmentofthetrade‐offsbetweenthetransportationsavings

frominfrastructureinvestmentsandthecostsofincreasedfeesortaxes.Thiswillbedoneatakeyindustry/commoditylevelformajortradelanes.

Attachment 15-B

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HRTPOFreightTransportationAdvisoryCommittee(FTAC) April1,2014MeetingMinutes

StakeholderoutreachisakeycomponentoftheStudy.Theteamwillconductinterviewswithadiversegroupofstakeholderswithinthefirstsixweeksofthestudytoinformandvetthesecondarydatathathasbeencollectedandanalyzedaswellasexaminelikelyreactionstoalternativeinvestmentandfundingscenarios.Twofocusgroupswillalsobeconductedwithupto25stakeholderseach.Mr.Moyestressedtheimportanceofgatheringcompletedatafromtherightpeople,especiallytruckers.Hesaidthathehasseenalotofstudiescomeandgoandmosthaveverylittleimpactorworth.HerecommendedgettinginputfromtheVirginiaEconomicDevelopmentPartnership(VEDP),whonowholdaseatontheVPABoard.Mr.Heltonalsostressedtheimportanceofinterviewingoperatorsofthedistributioncenters,andnottofocusonlyonbuildersandrealestatedevelopers.Theprojecthasanaggressivescheduleandwillmostlikelybeheavilyscrutinizedoncecomplete.Acriticalelementtomeetingthescheduleistogetaccesstostakeholdersforinterviewsandfocusgroups,andtheteamisalreadyunderwayinsecondarydatacollectionandwillstartreachingoutforinterviewsinthenexttwoweeks.TheteamwillmostlikelybeattheJulyFTACmeeting.Mr.Florinwillemailthegroupregardingstakeholderinterviews.

6. HRTPOUPDATE

DraftFY15UPWPTheHRTPO’sdraftFY15UnifiedPlanningWorkProgram(UPWP)isacomprehensivedocumentthatdescribesthetransportationplanningworkandassociatedfundingforHamptonRoadsfromJuly1,2014toJune30,2015.Ms.Ravanbakhtpresentedthenear‐finalplan.

ThemainfundingfortheHRTPOcomesfromFHWAandFTA,withmatchingstateandlocalfunds.ThebulkofthefundswereallocatedtoHRTforthestudiestoevaluatebuildingtheTideouttotheOceanfrontandtheNavyBase.

Thefundingforthefreighttaskinthe2015UPWPhasbeenexplainedtotheCommitteeinpreviousmeetings,andsincethenHRTPOstaffhasincorporatedMr.Florin’scomments,including“Begintodiscuss/reviewpotentialmetricsforintermodalprojects…toenhancethecurrentprioritizationscoring.”.

Attachment 15-B

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HRTPOFreightTransportationAdvisoryCommittee(FTAC) April1,2014MeetingMinutes

DelegateStollementionedthatHamptonRoads’PrioritizationToolisthebestinthestate.Ms.RavanbakhtstatedthatHRTPOstaffwillworkcloselywithVDOTtoensurethatitconsiderstheHamptonRoadstoolasitdevelopsitsowntool.

2040CandidateProjectsMr.GoswamipresentedtheCandidateProjectListforthe2040LongRangeTransportationPlan(LRTP),whichplanwillbefinalinJanuary2016.Theprojectlistcomesfromthreemainsources:the2034LRTP,localitysubmittals,andthe2040LRTPVisioningSurvey,andhasbeenscreenedbyHRTPOstaffandtheHRTPO’sLRTPSubcommitteeusingavarietyofcriteriawhichMs.Ravanbakhtdescribed.Thedraftlistincludesabout200projects.Theprojectsonthelistwillbescored,andthenafinanciallyconstrainedplanwillbedevelopedfromthelist.

FTACstaffaskedtheCommitteetocomeupwiththeTopFiveprojectsthatwouldbenefittheirfreightbusinesses.Ifthereareprojectsthatarenotonthelist,orifthereareprojectsthatmembersdonotthinkshouldbeonthelist,pleasebringthemtostaff’sattention.Afollow‐upemailwillbesentoutwiththisrequest.InadditiontothelargeHRTFprojectssuchasPatriot’sCrossing,othersmallerprojectsthatmayaffectFTACcompanies’freightmovementwouldbeusefultoinclude.

PublicInvolvementPlanfor2040LRTPAsafederally‐fundedMPO,theHRTPOrequiresaPublicInvolvementPlan,whichMs.MillerdescribedtotheCommittee.TheHRTPO’spublicinvolvementprocessforthe2040LRTPisgoingwell,with1,800responsestothepublicsurvey.ThefreightcommunityandFTACwerepivotaltothesurvey’ssuccess.

Giventhepreparationofthe2040LRTPcandidateprojectlist(discussedabove),HRTPOstaffwillconnectwiththesurveyrespondentsviamail,Facebook,emailandtwopublicmeetingstoaskthemifstaffmisreadsurveysuggestionsforeasingcongestionandimprovingconnectivity.Therewillalsobeadvertisingatcommunitycenters,libraries,YMCA’s,andpossiblyonHRTbuses.ThepublicmeetingswillbeattendedbytheHRTPOstaffsothepubliccanhave“one‐on‐one”conversationsconcerningthe2040LRTP.

Mr.MoyethankedMs.Millerandherteamforconductingthispublicoutreach,asitisimportanttothetransportationplanningprocessandisoftenadifficulttask.

ImprovementofDataUsedinPrioritizationToolMr.CasepresentedtheworkbeingdonebyHRTPOstafftoimprovethedatausedinthePrioritizationTooltoscore2040LRTPprojects.TheimproveddataisbasedonfiverecentHRTPOstudies:1)Military,2)TruckDelay,3)Reliability,4)TravelTime/Speed,and5)Safety.

Attachment 15-B

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HRTPOFreightTransportationAdvisoryCommittee(FTAC) April1,2014MeetingMinutes

Inresponsetothemilitarystudy,thetoolwillusethestudy’slistofMilitaryandSupportingSites,anditsRoadwaysServingtheMilitary(includingSTRAHNET).

Inresponsetothetruckdelaystudy,thetoolwillusethestudy’sobjectivetruck‐delayreductiondata(asopposedtoearliersubjectiveassessmentsoftraveltimereductions).

Inresponsetothereliabilitystudy,thetoolwillusethestudy’sbufferindex(basedonrealvehiclespeedfluctuationdatacollectedbyINRIX).Thetoolpreviouslyreliedonreliabilityassessmentsbasedonvolumes,congestion,safety,anddetours.

Inresponsetothetraveltimeandspeedstudy,thetoolwillusethestudy’straveltimeindex(basedonrealvehicletraveltimedatacalculatedbyINRIX.Thetoolpreviouslyreliedoncongestionestimatesbasedontrafficvolumesandroadwaycapacities.

Finally,inresponsetothesafetystudy,thetoolwillusetheratioofroadwaysegment/interchangecrashratetoaverageregionalratesfromthestudy.Thetoolpreviouslyreliedonaveragejurisdictionalrates.

TheseimprovementswillallowHRTPOstafftoinputmoreaccurateandobjectivedataintothePrioritizationToolwhenscoringprojects.

7. ANNOUNCEMENTOFNEXTMEETINGDATEThenextmeetingwassetforJuly1stat11a.m.andthemeetingafterthattentativelysetforOctober7th.Mr.Moyethankedthegroupfortheirinvolvementandtimebeforeadjourningthemeeting.

Attachment 15-B

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Summary TTAC Minutes – April 2, 2014 – Page 1

Summary Minutes of the HRTPO Transportation Technical Advisory Committee (TTAC) Meeting

April 2, 2014

The HRTPO Transportation Technical Advisory Committee (TTAC) Meeting was called to order at 9:31 a.m. in the Regional Board Room, 723 Woodlake Drive, Chesapeake, Virginia, with the following in attendance:

TTAC Voting Members in Attendance: Michael King (Chair, NN) Robert Gey (Vice Chair, VB) Steve Froncillo (Alternate, CH) Earl Sorey (CH) Brian Lewis (Alternate, GL) Keith Cannady (HA) John Yorks (HA) Jamie Oliver (IW) Paul Holt (JC)

Jackie Kassel (NN) Tom Slaughter (NN) Robert Brown (NO) James Wright (PO) Kevin Wyne (PQ) Bob Goumas (Alternate, SU) Scott Mills (SU) Phil Pullen (VB) Brian Solis (VB)

Reed Nester (WM) Tim Cross (YK) Emily Stock (DRPT) Julie Timm (HRT) Tony Gibson (Alternate, VDOT) Dawn Odom (VDOT) Stephen Rowan (VDOT) Kevin Abt (VPA) Jamie Jackson (Alternate, WATA)

TTAC Voting Members Absent: Steve Lambert (CH) Gary Walton (CH) Garrey Curry (GL) Anne Ducey-Ortiz (GL) Emily Gibson (GL) Lynn Allsbrook (HA) Michael Stallings (IW) Peter Stephenson (IW)

Allen J. Murphy, Jr. (JC) Tammy Rosario (JC) Jeff Raliski (NO) Susan Wilson (PO) Ellen Roberts (PQ) Debbie Vest (PQ) Sherry Earley (SU)

Robert Lewis (SU) Daniel Clayton (WM) Steve Martin (WM) J. Mark Carter (YK) Al Maddalena (YK) Eric Stringfield (VDOT) Kevan Danker (WATA)

TTAC Nonvoting Members in Attendance: Rhonda Murray (Navy) TTAC Nonvoting Members Absent: Ivan Rucker (FHWA) Tony Cho (FTA) Clifford Burnette (VDOA) HRTPO Staff: Rob Case Arkopal Goswami Kathlene Grauberger Theresa Jones

Mike Kimbrel Kendall Miller Jessica Nappi Keith Nichols

Joe Paulus Camelia Ravanbakht Dale Stith Chris Wichman

Others Recorded Attending: Bob Matthias, Bryan Stilley (NN); Karen McPherson (McPherson Consulting); Dan Bell (FHR); Keisha Branch (HRT); Mitzi Crystal, Darryll Lewis, Bryant Porter, Angela Rico, Christopher Voigt (VDOT); Rick Case, Chris Vaigneur (HRPDC Staff)

Attachment 15-C

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Summary TTAC Minutes – April 2, 2014 – Page 2

Public Comment Period There was no public comment. Submitted Public Comments There were no submitted public comments in the agenda packet. Comments and Updates from State and Federal Agencies and the Military Ms. Dawn Odom of VDOT reported that a public hearing will be held on April 17, 2014 at 6:00 p.m. at the Regional Building regarding its Draft Six Year Improvement Program (SYIP). Ms. Rhonda Murray, the Navy’s representative, reported that the leadership at Norfolk Naval Station will be briefed on HRT’s efforts to bring light rail to Norfolk and will be asked to provide support and guidance for the project. Approval of Agenda Chair Michael King asked for additions or deletions to the TTAC Agenda. He requested a single vote be taken for the seven TIP Amendments in the agenda packet. Mr. Robert Gey Moved to approve the agenda as amended; seconded by Mr. John Yorks. The Motion Carried. Summary Minutes Chair King indicated the Summary Minutes of the March 5, 2014 meeting were included in the April TTAC Agenda. He asked for corrections or amendments to the minutes. Hearing none, Mr. Earl Sorey Moved to approve the minutes as written; seconded by Mr. Reed Nester. The Motion Carried. FY 2012-2015 TIP Amendment: VDOT Mr. Steve Rowan reported the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) has requested to amend the Hampton Roads FY 2012 – 2015 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) to modify the information for one project as follows:

• UPC 80480 – Cathodic Bridge Protection for Berkley Bridge in Norfolk. o Revise project description to Cathodic Bridge Protection for Berkley Bridge and

HRBT approaches o Update Cost Estimate: $551,894 (PE Phase) o Add PE Phase obligation of $10,953 SAFETEA-LU funds, with $2,738 in state

matching funds, in FFY14 o Remove CN Phase obligations of $40,000 SAFETEA-LU funds, and associated

$10,000 in state matching funds The TIP amendment has been made available for public review and comment. The public review period began on March 26, 2014 and runs through April 9, 2014.

Attachment 15-C

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Summary TTAC Minutes – April 2, 2014 – Page 3

FY 2012-2015 TIP Amendment: VDOT Mr. Rowan reported the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) has requested to amend the Hampton Roads FY 2012 – 2015 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) to add one project as follows:

• UPC 97727 – Elizabeth River Trail, Phase 3A: from Redgate Avenue/Weyanoke Street to Armistead Bridge Road in Norfolk. This project is a child project of UPC 56430, a project to construct a pedestrian and bicycle path along the unused railroad right of way in the Fort Norfolk section of southwest Norfolk, which is included in the current TIP.

o Add project to TIP o Total cost estimate = $970,132 (CN Phase) o Add CN Phase obligation of $661,974 STP/EN funds, with $165,493 in state

matching funds, in FFY14 o Add CN Phase obligation of $114,132 (TAP/F) funds, with $28,533 in state

matching funds, in FFY14 The TIP amendment has been made available for public review and comment. The public review period began on March 26, 2014 and runs through April 9, 2014. FY 2012-2015 TIP Amendment: VDOT Mr. Rowan reported the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) has requested to amend the Hampton Roads FY 2012 – 2015 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) to add one project as follows:

• UPC 104168 – Cathodic Protection on Berkley Bridge in Norfolk. This project is a child project of UPC 80480, which is included in the current TIP.

o Add project to TIP o Total cost estimate = $75,000 (CN Phase) o Add CN Phase obligation of $60,000 SAFETEA-LU funds, with $15,000 in state

matching funds, in FFY14 The TIP amendment has been made available for public review and comment. The public review period began on March 26, 2014 and runs through April 9, 2014. FY 2012-2015 TIP Amendment: VDOT Mr. Rowan reported the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) has requested to amend the Hampton Roads FY 2012 – 2015 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) to add one project as follows:

• UPC 104654 – Route 615 – Upgrade Flashing Lights and Add Gates at railroad crossing 60 feet north of Route 725 in Isle of Wight County.

o Add project to TIP o Total cost estimate = $233,664 (CN Phase) o Add CN Phase obligation of $210,298 HSIP funds, with $23,366 in state matching

funds, in FFY14

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Summary TTAC Minutes – April 2, 2014 – Page 4

The TIP amendment has been made available for public review and comment. The public review period began on March 26, 2014 and runs through April 9, 2014. FY 2012-2015 TIP Amendment: VDOT Mr. Rowan reported the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) has requested to amend the Hampton Roads FY 2012 – 2015 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) to add one project as follows:

• UPC 105222 – Route 134 – Replace Bridge over Brick Kiln Creek (1.365 miles west of intersection with Route 172 to 1.098 miles west of intersection with Route 172).

o Add project to TIP o Total cost estimate = $4,520,000 o Add PE Phase obligation of $870,000 BR funds in FFY14 o Add RW Phase obligation of $1,050,000 BR funds in FFY14

The TIP amendment has been made available for public review and comment. The public review period began on March 26, 2014 and runs through April 9, 2014. FY 2012-2015 TIP Amendment: VDOT Mr. Rowan reported the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) has requested to amend the Hampton Roads FY 2012 – 2015 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) to add one project as follows:

• UPC 98567 – Improvements at the intersection of Jefferson Avenue and Habersham Lane in Newport News. The project includes installing video detectors, adding pedestrian phases, realigning crosswalks, adding ADA ramps, and removing fixed objects at the intersection.

o Add project to TIP o Total cost estimate = $62,301 o Add PE Phase obligation of $3,027 HSIP funds, with match of $336, in FFY14 o Add CN Phase obligation of $30,518 HSIP funds in FFY13 o Add CN Phase obligation of $16,405 HSIP funds in FFY14 o Match for CN Phase HSIP obligations is $5,214 o Add CN Phase obligation of $1,620 AC funds, with match of $180, in FFY14

The TIP amendment has been made available for public review and comment. The public review period began on March 26, 2014 and runs through April 9, 2014. FY 2012-2015 TIP Amendment: VDOT Mr. Rowan reported the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) has requested to amend the Hampton Roads FY 2012 – 2015 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) to add one project as follows:

• UPC 98566 – Improvements at the intersection of Jefferson Avenue and Brick Kiln Boulevard in Newport News. The project includes installing video detectors, extending a

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Summary TTAC Minutes – April 2, 2014 – Page 5

left-turn lane, upgrading signal hardware, adding pedestrian phase, realigning crosswalks, adding ADA ramps, and removing fixed objects at the intersection.

o Add project to TIP o Total cost estimate = $430,051 o Add PE Phase obligation of $4,500 HSIP funds, with match of $500, in Previous

Obligations o Add PE Phase obligation of $22,500 HSIP funds, with match of $2,500, in FFY12 o Release PE Phase obligation of $11,852 HSIP funds, with match of $1,317, in FFY14 o Add CN Phase obligation of $432,000 HSIP funds, with match of $48,000, in FFY13 o Release CN Phase obligation of $60,102 HSIP funds, with match of $6,678, in FFY14

The TIP amendment has been made available for public review and comment. The public review period began on March 26, 2014 and runs through April 9, 2014. Mr. Tim Cross Moved to recommend HRTPO Board approval of the seven TIP Amendments; seconded by Ms. Jackie Kassel. The Motion Carried. FY 2015 Unified Planning Work Program: Final Mr. Mike Kimbrel, HRTPO Principal Transportation Engineer, reported that HRTPO staff, in coordination with Hampton Roads Transit, Williamsburg Area Transit Authority, VDOT, and DRPT has developed the Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP) for fiscal year (FY) 2015. The UPWP describes the mutual responsibilities of the aforementioned entities in carrying out the metropolitan transportation planning process for Hampton Roads. He indicated the draft UPWP was presented to the TTAC during its March 2014 meeting and underwent public review from February 26, 2014 through March 12, 2014. One public comment was received and is included in the appendix of the UPWP, along with an HRTPO staff response on how the points of the public comments were or will be addressed. He noted a few changes were made to the Freight Planning Task per the request of the HRTPO Freight Transportation Advisory Committee (FTAC). He also noted an additional $18,000 was added to the 5303 Transit Program from the Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation (DRTP). Mr. Sorey Moved to recommend HRTPO Board approval of the FY 2015 UPWP; seconded by Mr. Rob Brown. The Motion Carried. FY 2015 Transportation Alternatives Program: Project Selection Mr. Mike Kimbrel, HRTPO Principal Transportation Engineer, reported that the Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP), which was created by MAP-21, requires that 50% of the program funds received by the state be sub-allocated to areas based on population, while the other 50% may be obligated to any area of the state. Transportation Management Areas (MPOs having an urban population over 200,000) have the authority to select and award funding from their sub-allocations to projects carried out within their urbanized boundaries through a competitive selection process. In Virginia, District members of the Commonwealth Transportation Board are each provided $1 million in TAP funds to allocate to projects in their Districts.

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Summary TTAC Minutes – April 2, 2014 – Page 6

The HRTPO staff coordinates with the VDOT Local Assistance Division (LAD) staff in carrying out the project selection process for Hampton Roads. The LAD coordinates the application process and scores proposed projects based on criteria developed in cooperation with Virginia MPOs. Each proposed project is scored by several VDOT staffers individually. The scores from each project evaluator are then combined and divided by the number of evaluators to produce a final average score. MPOs responsible for selecting TAP projects receive the application materials and summary scoring information for each project proposed within the MPO area. He indicated that the LAD received a total of ten applications, with a total FY 2015 TAP funding request of $4,700,999 for the Hampton Roads Metropolitan Planning Area (MPA). For FY 2015, the total of TAP funds to be allocated by the HRTPO is $1,695,112. He noted the following table shows the allocations (in the HRTPO column) recommended by the Transportation Programming Subcommittee (TPS) during its meeting of March 14, 2014. The CTB member allocations and the projects outside of the HRTPO area, but within the VDOT Hampton Roads District, are shown for informational purposes.

Mr. Phil Pullen indicated that Virginia Beach will vote for the recommended TAP projects; however, he suggested a more rigid process in terms of allocating funds based on project ranks as done in the CMAQ and RSTP process, be utilized in the future. Chair King agreed and stated it will be discussed at the next TPS Meeting. Mr. Pullen Moved to recommend HRTPO Board approval of the TAP projects and allocations; seconded by Mr. Kevin Abt. The Motion Carried. 2014 TIGER Grant Proposals Mr. Mike Kimbrel, HRTPO Principal Transportation Engineer, reported that during the March 2014 TTAC meeting, HRTPO staff announced that the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) had published a Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA) for a sixth round of the TIGER Discretionary Grants program. A handout summarizing the 2014 TIGER opportunity was distributed during that meeting.

TAP Project

NumberJurisdiction Project

Score (Max=300) Total Cost

TAP Request CTB HRTPO Balance

14030 Virginia Beach Buckner Boulevard Shared-Use Path 232 $561,545 $455,668 $226,540 $229,128 $014067 Fish & Wildlife Southern Tip Bike and Hike Trail 224 $484,344 $387,475 $387,475 $014042 Portsmouth Portsmouth Trail 222 $1,125,000 $900,000 $900,000 $014029 Virginia Beach Greenwell Road Sidewalk 221 $414,962 $331,969 $165,985 $165,984 $014033 Virginia Beach Shore Drive Bike Facilities 213 $1,133,328 $906,662 $906,66214031 Virginia Beach Kendall Street Sidewalk 203 $302,393 $241,914 $241,91414032 Virginia Beach Mediterranean & Cypress Avenues Sidewalk 198 $539,022 $431,218 $431,21814047 HRT HRT ADA Bus Stops 197 $350,000 $280,000 $280,00014049 Newport News Chesapeake Avenue Bike Trail 192 $500,000 $400,000 $400,000 $014009 Suffolk Shoulders Hill Road Multi-Use Trail and Sidewalk 185 $350,000 $280,000 $280,00014008 Chesapeake Chesapeake Trail 183 $723,100 $480,000 $480,00014050 Franklin Franklin Multi-Use Path 174 $42,500 $34,000 $34,00014035 Southampton Co Nat Turner Trail and Trailhead 143 $275,000 $220,000 $220,000 $0

Indicates project outside of HRTPO area. Totals: $5,348,906 $1,000,000 $1,695,112 $2,653,794

Allocations

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Summary TTAC Minutes – April 2, 2014 – Page 7

During the March 14, 2014 TPS meeting, the HRTPO staff recommended that those intending to submit a TIGER grant proposal submit a request for an HRTPO Board endorsement of the proposal, to be included in the application documents. To date, HRTPO staff has received a request for HRTPO Board endorsement of the following project:

• Route 58 Hampton Roads Intermodal Corridor – Suffolk o Total Cost: $72 million o TIGER Request: $45 million o The 3.1-mile widening project will provide for the construction of an additional

travel lane both east bound and west bound from Route 58/13/32 bypass to approximately 0.7 miles west of Manning Bridge Road in Suffolk. The project also will provide for intersection and traffic signal upgrades and incorporate access management measures along the route to improve safety for vehicles entering and exiting businesses. The project includes a raised median throughout the corridor along with separated bikeway or multiuse path to accommodate pedestrians and bicyclists along the corridor.

Ms. Jamie Oliver inquired as to whether the Suffolk project had been submitted in a previous TIGER round. Mr. Kimbrel replied affirmatively; however, he was unsure if the dollar amounts were the same. Ms. Julie Timm stated that HRT planned to submit a TIGER Grant application regarding the Norfolk light rail extension to Naval Station Norfolk. Dr. Camelia Ravanbakht asked whether VDOT or DRPT planned to submit any projects, specially the I-64/I-264 interchange project. Ms. Odom replied that VDOT Central Office required each District Office to submit one project for consideration and the I-64/I-264 Interchange project was submitted. She noted it will compete against other projects in the state with the Secretary making the final decision. Ms. Emily Stock stated DRPT is considering submitting a Bus Rapid Transit project in Richmond and indicated DRPT’s support regarding HRT’s project submittal. Mr. Scott Mills Moved to recommend HRTPO Board endorsement of the Suffolk TIGER Grant proposal listed above; seconded by Ms. Oliver. The Motion Carried. Public Involvement for the 2040 LRTP Draft Candidate Project List Ms. Kendall Miller, HRTPO Public Involvement & Title VI Administrator, reported that the HRTPO is a federally authorized planning agency created to oversee the local transportation system in the Hampton Roads Urbanized Area. While updating the Long-Range Transportation Plan, the HRTPO must engage interested parties as established in the Safe, Accountable, Flexible, and Efficient Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users (SAFETEA-LU) and remains in the transportation reauthorization bill, Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century (MAP-21). Interested parties may include local governmental agencies, private freight shippers, providers of transportation services, providers of freight transportation services, organizations representing persons with disabilities, representatives of users of public transportation, bike and pedestrian groups, Tribal organizations, and the general public.

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Summary TTAC Minutes – April 2, 2014 – Page 8

Since June of 2013, HRTPO staff has been compiling candidate projects for the 2040 Long-Range Transportation Plan (LRTP). They include projects that were in the 2034 LRTP, plus projects submitted by the public via the 2040 LRTP Visioning Survey as well as locality input received through work with the LRTP Subcommittee. As of February 14, 2014, the 2040 LRTP Draft Candidate Projects include highway, transit, and active transportation (bicycle/pedestrian) projects. The HRTPO Public Involvement Plan is specified as one aspect of the 2040 LRTP and outlines the activities for educating the public on the draft candidate projects and engaging their feedback and opinions. Ms. Miller indicated the 2040 LRTP public involvement outreach concentrated on micro-participation and included:

• Social Media and Email • Public Meetings • Advertising • HRTPO and Partner Websites

She stated that HRTPO staff is presenting the 2040 LRTP public outreach to TTAC, FTAC, and CTAC with a webpage on the HRTPO website dedicated to this outreach. There will be three upcoming 2040 LRTP public meetings in Poquoson, Williamsburg, and an HRTPO Open House at the Regional Building. Ms. Miller commented that although the HRTPO makes every effort to achieve the requirements of Environmental Justice (EJ) in all of its planning and program activities, a concentrated effort is made to further seek input from traditionally disadvantage populations and other EJ-target groups. Such efforts include:

• Expanding the HRTPO mailing list • Adapting advertising for ease of understanding • Adapting public meeting times and locations for accessibility • Offering a language translator on the HRTPO website • Translating and posting public notices and public comment opportunities on social

networking sites Ms. Miller stated that subsequent phases of the LRTP will be vetted to the public so as to inform the public and to gain their input and perspectives. Midtown and Downtown Tunnels: Commuter Survey Ms. Kendall Miller, HRTPO Public Involvement & Title VI Administrator, reported that during the January 16, 2014 meeting, the HRTPO Board approved the authorization to procure the services of Christopher Newport University (CNU) to conduct a two-part Commuter Toll Pattern Survey. Ms. Miller stated the goal of Part 1 was to assess the public’s views and anticipated behavior in light of the implementation of tolling on the Midtown and Downtown Tunnels. The data and analysis focus on commuting experiences, knowledge and views of tolls on the Midtown and

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Summary TTAC Minutes – April 2, 2014 – Page 9

Downtown tunnels, anticipated changes to commuting patterns, and knowledge and use of the E-ZPass system. The study dates were January 26 – 31, 2014. Data was collected from a random sample telephone survey of 601 residents of the Cities of Norfolk, Portsmouth, Chesapeake, Suffolk, and Virginia Beach, including landline and cell phones. The maximum margin of error for the overall survey is +/- 3.9%. Data was weighted using the HRTPO Travel Demand Model to reflect as closely as possible the locality of residence of drivers using the Midtown and Downtown Tunnels. Key findings include:

• Commuting Experiences – The vast majority of residents drive; a third commute through one or both tunnels and nearly two-thirds of them do so during peak hours.

• Views on Tolls – Residents are slightly more supportive of tolls than opposed; tolling was the most popular option for paying for transportation improvements in Hampton Roads.

• Knowledge of Tolls – Residents think a reasonable toll for cars and light trucks is $0.77 and for commercial heavy trucks is $1.75; split on whether current toll for cars and light trucks is too high.

• Anticipated Changes to Driving Habits – Few say they will change where they live to avoid tolls, but majority say they will change their commute or where they travel to avoid them.

• Issues Related to E-ZPass – Most residents have heard about E-ZPass; majority have opened an account or say they do not need one. Most employers not helping with toll costs.

Ms. Timm inquired as to whether demographic questions were included in the study. Ms. Miller replied affirmatively. Dr. Ravanbakht replied the second part of the survey will be conducted in May or June of this year. Midtown and Downtown Tunnels: Traffic Impacts Mr. Keith Nichols, HRTPO Senior Transportation Engineer, reported that on February 1, 2014, tolls were implemented at the Downtown and Midtown Tunnels. The HRTPO staff analyzed the impact these tolls had on traffic volumes at those facilities as well as the Gilmerton Bridge and High Rise Bridge. Pre-toll conditions from both 2013 and January 2014 were compared with each of the four weeks in February’s post-toll conditions. Data from January 14th – 16th was used since the last two weeks in January were impacted by inclement winter weather. Data was not used for the High Rise Bridge or the Gilmerton Bridge in 2013 since it was not available prior to 2014 for the High Rise and the Gilmerton was under construction. Midtown Tunnel pre- and post-tolling traffic impact results are as follows:

• Pre-Tolling – Week of January 14th – 41,000 vehicles • Post-Tolling – First Week of February – 34,300 vehicles • Post-Tolling – Last Week of February – 35,000 vehicles

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Summary TTAC Minutes – April 2, 2014 – Page 10

Downtown Tunnel pre- and post-tolling traffic impact results are as follows:

• Pre-Tolling – Week of January 14th – 85,000 vehicles • Post-Tolling – First Week of February – 65,000 vehicles • Post-Tolling – Last Week of February – 71,000 vehicles

Mr. Nichols stated key findings from the study include:

• Weekday volumes were down 23% at the Downtown Tunnel and 16% at the Midtown Tunnel the week after tolls were implemented, but have increased slightly.

• Weekday volumes jumped 16% at the High Rise Bridge and 34% at the Gilmerton Bridge the week after tolls were implemented, and have largely remained steady through the end of February.

• Volume changes at the crossings have been much larger in the off peak travel periods. • HRTPO staff will continue to monitor the changes.

2014 General Assembly Session: Status Report Dr. Ravanbakht reported that HB2 directs the CTB to develop a statewide prioritization process for all SYIP projects. She noted that Secretary Layne has assured the MPOs in the State that the process will be tailored for each region. In Hampton Roads, congestion and delay will be the focus of the prioritization process, while another factor may be weighted in the western part of the State. The process should be implemented in FY 2017 with a Request for Proposal (RFP) issued by the State in the next few months. She indicated that changes may be made to projects that are already in the SYIP due to the implementation of the process in FY 2017. She noted that whatever project has the highest prioritization score will be constructed first. She stated that HB1253 and SB513 are expected to be signed into law this week by the Governor and will establish the Hampton Roads Transportation Accountability Commission (HTAC). The Commission will have 23 Voting members including the 14 Chief Elected Officers, three General Assembly Delegates and two Senators. In addition, the VDOT Commissioner, the DRPT Director, the VPA Executive Director and one CTB member will be Non-voting members. The HTAC will be the financing arm of the HRTPO and will provide policy oversight for the Hampton Roads Transportation Fund (HRTF) projects and will determine how HRTF monies will be allocated. The HTAC will have the power to issue bonds and negotiate for P3 contracts. Mr. Pullen inquired as to whether the HB2 state prioritization process will affect the nine HRTF projects. Dr. Ravanbakht replied no, that the HTAC will be responsible for the HRTF projects. Dr. Ravanbakht commented that the state will conduct interviews with different MPOs across the Commonwealth, including the HRTPO, in order to assist in the development of the state prioritization process. She suggested inviting Deputy Secretary Nick Donohue to a future TTAC meeting to brief the Committee. The TTAC agreed with her suggestion.

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Summary TTAC Minutes – April 2, 2014 – Page 11

Three-Month Tentative Schedule Chair King outlined the Three-Month Tentative Schedule for TTAC. For Your Information Chair King highlighted the items in the For Your Information in the section of the agenda packet. Announcements Chair King acknowledged the written announcements in the agenda packet. Old/New Business There was no old/new business. Adjournment

With no further business to come before the Hampton Roads Transportation Technical Advisory Committee, the meeting adjourned at 10:37 a.m.

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