Chatham County Savannah. Metropolitan Planning Commission Work Program Work Program Summary

Transcription

1 Chatham County Savannah 2016 Work Program 2016 Work Program Summary 2016 Budget Page 17

2 The Planning Commission Executive Team 2016 Work Program The Planning Commission and Executive Team Ongoing Responsibilities The Chatham County-Savannah was created in 1955 by agreement of the City of Savannah and Chatham County. In 1961 legislation was enacted by the Georgia General Assembly that permits joint city-county planning commissions. The jurisdictional area served by the agency is the City of Savannah and the unincorporated portion of Chatham County. However, some of our responsibilities involve all the jurisdictions in Chatham County, parts of Effingham County and Richmond Hill. For Chatham County municipalities our responsibilities involve storm water permitting, water planning and other environmental activities. The Coastal Region involves the regional jurisdictions and transportation modal agencies as well. Responsibilities of The Planning Commission Hear and make decisions on zoning related petitions in the City of Savannah and unincorporated Chatham County Review Site Plans Appoint various committees Scope of Responsibility Meet on a regular basis to hear petitions filed Review site plans as necessary Appoint standing committees; Ad-hoc committees as needed Election of Officers Executive Director evaluation Annual election of officers Annual evaluation of the Executive Director The Board consists of 14 members. Six members are appointed by the Board of Commissioners of Chatham County and six members are appointed by the Mayor and Aldermen of the City of Savannah. The Savannah City Manager and the Chatham County Manager serve as ex-officio members of the Commission. Appointed members serve three-year over-lapping terms. All members serve without compensation.

3 Executive Team (Continued) The Chatham County Savannah The Executive Director is appointed by the Planning Commission and is the Chief Executive Officer of the MPC. The Executive Director reports to the Planning Commission on all matters affecting the organization. The Executive Director prepares the annual budget for adoption by the Planning Commission, and upon adoption, executes the work program and budget. The Executive Director advises the Planning Commission concerning the affairs and operations of the organization. The Office of the Executive Director is supported by the following members of the Executive Team: the Finance and Systems Director and the Administrative Services Director. The Executive Director is responsible for appointing and managing the staff of MPC. The MPC has thirty-eight authorized positions divided into seven areas: Administrative Services, Comprehensive Planning, Development Services/Special Projects, Finance and Systems, SAGIS, Transportation Services, and Urban Planning and Historic Preservation. At this time only twentyseven positions are filled. Executive Team Projects Project #1: Board Management The Executive Director oversee the staff services to the ten boards served by the MPC staff. Through use of the E-Agenda system, agendas are prepared and individual reports are reviewed and approved through a chain of command with the final approval by the Executive Director. Project #2: Transportation Program Management The Executive Director also serves as Executive Director of the Coastal Region Metropolitan Planning Organization. The MPC, as staff to the Coastal Region Metropolitan Planning Organization, is undertaking multiple studies and several corridor studies to ensure continued eligibility for federal funds to our urban area. The CORE MPO now has its own budget. Project #3: Savannah Area Geographic Information Systems (SAGIS) Management The position of SAGIS director is delegated to a department head by the Executive Director. SAGIS has its own budget and a Board of Directors has oversight responsibilities. The process is monitored by the Executive Team. Project #4: Information Surveillance The Executive Team monitors laws, legislation and other information that may affect the MPC or the Planning Commission. Of significance this year is the required update of the Comprehensive Plan and the Service Delivery Strategy which are due in 2016; and, the introduction of the Fixing America s Surface Transportation Act (FAST Act) which is a fiveyear bill setting transportation funding authorizations.

4 Executive Team (Continued) The Chatham County Savannah Project #5: Design, implement, deploy and maintain an electronic records system In order to provide accurate records to the public within a minimum amount of time, an electronic records system is being designed and implemented by staff. Applications for Development Services and Historic Preservation will be scanned and an electronic file will be established and maintained. Paper records will be destroyed once the file is deemed complete and final. A project of this magnitude will involve most of the departments at MPC.

5 Administrative Services 2016 Work Program Administrative Services Department Ongoing Responsibilities The Administrative Services department acts as the cog that facilitates the internal functioning of the operating departments. They ensure that notices to property owners are printed and mailed, communication is maintained with board members, reports are printed and distributed and information for the public is available when requested. Ongoing Responsibility Prepare board member packages for MPC Regular, MPC Planning, City and County Boards of Appeal, City and County Historic Preservation Boards, SAGIS Board and CORE MPO meetings Process development review applications Prepare minutes for MPC Regular, MPC Planning, City and County Boards of Appeal, City and County Historic Preservation Boards and SAGIS Provide administrative support for MPC Regular, MPC Planning, City and County Boards of Appeal, City and County Historic Preservation Boards, SAGIS and CORE MPO meetings Maintain complete City and County zoning ordinances Provide assistance to the public Process and mail zoning notifications to property owners Notify City and County of actions taken on Zoning petitions Scope of responsibility Staffing for the preparation of the meeting packages for the various boards and distribution Receive, record and distribute petitions/applications Preparation of minutes for each meeting and the posting of the minutes on the web site Prepare, set up and provide support for the various meetings, as needed Keep City and County zoning ordinances updated and complete Provide assistance to citizens and other agencies requesting information (telephone calls, walk-ins, s) Prepare notifications for mail out to property owners Staffing and preparation of sending the recommendations to the City and County The Administrative Services department is staffed by the Administrative Services Director and three Administrative Assistants.

6 Administrative Services (Continued) Administrative Services Department Projects The Chatham County Savannah Project #1: Reorganization of Filing System This project will last several years and will coordinate with the electronic records project (see Project #3). Existing files are being reviewed and organized for completeness in preparation for scanning. The filing system is also being reorganized to better reflect function and subject matter. Project #2: Electronic Records In coordination with the Information Technology department, Administration will work to ensure completeness of records, help develop quality control standards and develop the final processes as the system goes live. Project #3: Fleet Update and Replacement Currently, we have two vehicles, both of which are over ten years old. Both vehicles have been well maintained and total mileage is low. With funds permitting, the two vehicles will be disposed of and a new vehicle will be purchased. This will result in the downsizing of the fleet.

7 Comprehensive Planning Department Comprehensive Planning 2016 Work Program Comprehensive Planning Department Ongoing Responsibilities The Comprehensive Planning Department is responsible for the implementation of the Comprehensive Plan, maintaining Qualified Local Government status for Chatham County and its municipalities in accordance with Department of Community Affairs standards, maintaining certain data for planning needs, maintaining population data for local governments, conducting neighborhood and zoning studies, and assisting the Natural Resources Department. Ongoing Responsibility Comprehensive Plan Implementation Community Involvement Scope of responsibility The Chatham County - Savannah Comprehensive Plan addresses goals and strategies in seven categories: Community Facilities, Economic Development, Historic and Cultural Resources, Housing, Land Use, Natural Resources, and Transportation. Staff participation in community organizations that address these goals ensures that the organizations recognize and pursue community goals as expressed in the Comprehensive Plan. Participate in community organizations (e.g. Chatham Environmental Forum, Healthy Savannah, the Coastal Regional Commission (CRC), and the United States Green Building Council (USGBC). This also includes working with the City and County department programs (e.g. Savannah Housing Department, Economic Development Department, Mobility Services Department, Neighborhood and Community Development Department, the Engineering Department, and Step-up Savannah) and others. The Comprehensive Planning Department consists of one part-time planner. Comprehensive Planning Department Projects Project # 1: Resiliency Planning Task Finalize the MPC Continuity of Operations Plan (COOP) Comprehensive Planning staff will oversee the preparation of an in-depth COOP plan for MPC/SAGIS. The COOP will help to ensure regular day-to-day efforts and processes can continue in the event of a disaster for the MPC.

8 Comprehensive Planning (Continued) The Chatham County Savannah Task1.2 Produce newest inundation maps Comprehensive Planning staff will work with SAGIS to present the most up-to-date information on what areas and parcels of Chatham County will be impacted by flooding and to what degree/depth due to climatic changes and events such as hurricanes. Task 1.3 Chatham County Redevelopment Plan The MPC will be working with CEMA and DNR CRD on the drafting of a Post- Disaster/Incident Redevelopment Plan for all of Chatham County. Aspects of the plan that will require MPC involvement include housing, land use, floodplain management, historic resources, and natural resources protection with assistance from SAGIS staff. Project #2: Chatham County Strategic Plan The Comprehensive Planning staff will play a large role in drafting Chatham County s Strategic Plan under the direction of the Coastal Georgia Indicators Coalition. The outcomes of the Strategic Plan s efforts (community participation meetings, public surveys, goals and strategies, etc.) will be reviewed and taken into account during the update of the Chatham County Savannah Comprehensive Plan scheduled for completion and adoption in October 2016 Project #3: Chatham County-Savannah Comprehensive Plan Update Staff will be building on the work done with the Strategic Plan process (see Project #2) and doing a complete update to the Comprehensive Plan. The topics being addressed will include: Transportation Housing Economic Development Land Use Quality of Life new to the Comprehensive Plan A complete update to the Chatham County Comprehensive Plan is required to be filed with the State by October The Comprehensive Plan will include the relevant results from Chatham County s Strategic Plan, as well as, additional topics. The goal will be to make the plan more focused and strategic and thus more implementable. Project #4: Service Delivery Strategy (SDS) Update The service delivery strategy will also be updated during the 2016 calendar year and included in the final adopted Chatham County-Savannah Comprehensive Plan. The process is intended to minimize inefficiencies resulting from duplication of services and competition between local governments. The major categories being reviewed and updated include: Water supply and distribution Sewage Collection Canal Maintenance Emergency Medical Service Fire Protection Services

9 Comprehensive Planning (Continued) The Chatham County Savannah Other categories in the SDS that will be reviewed include: Criminal Justice Health and Welfare Leisure Services Public Safety Public Works Transportation The SDS process is intended to minimize inefficiencies resulting from duplication of services and competition between local governments.

10 Comprehensive Planning Department Natural Resources 2016 Work Program Natural Resources Department Ongoing Responsibilities The Natural Resources Planning section of the Comprehensive Planning Department is responsible for environmental planning and outreach programs related to natural resources issues, water conservation and stormwater. This section is also the main point of contact for the County for any pertinent environmental regulatory code and regulation changes and updates. Ongoing Responsibility Providing stormwater program assistance to Unincorporated Chatham County, Bloomingdale, Garden City, Pooler, Port Wentworth, Thunderbolt and Tybee Island Respond to Joint Public Notice Requests for Comments Provide environmental regulatory updates to MPC staff and Board Scope of Responsibility Assist in meeting the conditions of the municipalities NPDES stormwater permits and the requirements of the Stormwater Program approved by the State of Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Environmental Protection Division. Oversee MPC review and drafting of all Joint Public Notice requests from the Corps of Engineers and the State Clearinghouse. Notify MPC staff and the MPC Board of pertinent environmental regulatory code and regulation changes and updates to ensure compliance with Local, State, and Federal guidelines. The Comprehensive Planning Department s Natural Resources Section consists of two planners, one of which is part-time. Natural Resources Projects Project #1: Completion of the Chatham County Greenway Master Plan Unincorporated Chatham County received a grant to complete the County s first county-wide greenway master plan. The scope will include looking at possible greenway links that include retired railway beds (Rails to Trails), and unopened road right-of-way to provide for alternative transportation modes (walking, biking, etc.) while also creating connections between civic and public interest points. Task 1.1 Participate in stakeholder data gathering and discussions Task 1.2 Assist in reviewing the completed land use study Review the compilation of land use/land cover data, inventories, and related environmental data and maps to identify potential greenway corridors.

11 Comprehensive Planning Department Natural Resources (Continued) Task 1.3 Participate in Community and Stakeholder Meetings Participate in community meetings in the neighborhoods where the proposed greenway projects would be situated to inform the public, receive feedback and generate community support for implementation. Task BMP Greenway Maintenance Guide Review MPC Staff will review the best management practices (BMPs) guidance document developed that will ensure that the trails, systems and adjacent habitats are properly maintained throughout the County. This will be used by Public Works staff when maintaining the municipally owned trails to ensure the protection of habitat and proper maintenance of the multi-use trails. Project #2: Update to the Chatham County Water Management Plan (dependent on funding) In light of new groundwater permit reduction mandates from GA EPD, the municipal water providers within Chatham County and southern Effingham County, with the assistance of the MPC, would like to coordinate water supply and conservation efforts and work together on updating Chatham County s Water Management Plan as well as expand it to include the entire geographic area known as the Red Zone. Task 2.1 Apply for grant to update the County s Water Management Plan Task 2.2- Begin drafting water management plan update (if grant is awarded) Hire consultant to begin drafting document (Includes gathering of water usage data from GA EPD, local municipalities, private water providers and industry) Task 2.3 Reconvene Water Subcommittees Reconvene subcommittees and meet to review the draft water plan and gather input (use list from last 2005 update: City/County staff, and area water providers) Task 2.4 Complete Final Draft of Water Plan for review Make final changes to water plan Task 2.5 Present Final Water Plan to GA EPD, Coastal DNR, MPC, City and County Present final plan to MPC, City Council and County Commission Submit final plan to Coastal DNR and GA EPD

12 Development Services Department and Special Projects 2016 Work Program Development Services and Special Projects Department Ongoing Responsibilities The Development Services Department focuses on current planning matters, including the review of site plans, subdivision plans, zoning map amendments, text amendments and wireless communication facilities for the City of Savannah and unincorporated Chatham County. Staff members also serve as secretary to both the City and County Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA). The ZBA is responsible for reviewing variances, special uses, extensions of non-conforming uses and appeals from decisions of the MPC and Historic Review Board. As by the improved economy, the number of development applications has increased by almost 34% since The Special Projects Department manages projects that require significant effort and oversight to accomplish. Currently, the Special Projects department is coordinating the update of the existing zoning ordinances for the City of Savannah and unincorporated Chatham County, known as the New Zoning Ordinance. Ongoing Responsibility Process submittals for proposed subdivisions, site plans, master plans, zoning and map amendments, and wireless communication facilities for the MPC. Process applications for the Zoning Boards of Appeals. Identify and process submittals that meet the requirements for Developments of Regional Impact (DRI). Provide staff support for MPC Regular meetings, MPC Planning meetings, City and County ZBA meetings. Inform the public about Development issues. Provide information to developers, engineers and citizens. Scope of Responsibility Staffing, approving and/or making recommendations to the MPC concerning the submittals. Serve as secretary to the Zoning Boards of Appeals. Review submitted applications for compliance with DRI guidelines. Coordinate appropriate MPC responses as necessary. Prepares plans and reports as necessary to support the actions and requirements of the MPC and the ZBA. Responds to inquiries from the public regarding all matters related to planning and zoning. Responds to inquiries from the development and engineering community regarding all matters related to planning and zoning. The Development Services department consists of the Development Services Director and three planners (which includes the Special Projects Director).

13 Development Services and Special Projects (Continued) Development Services Department Special Projects Projects Project #1: New Zoning Ordinances The New Zoning Ordinances (NewZO) project is designed to completely and thoroughly examine and update the existing City of Savannah and Chatham County Zoning Ordinances, resulting in the adoption of new ordinances for each agency. Development Services/Special Projects will continue work to facilitate the adoption of the NewZO. Project #2: Staff to keep abreast of current trends, etc. Training Attend, or participate on-line where available, appropriate local, regional, state or national training offerings as may be necessary. Limited by budget considerations. Participation Attend meetings and actively participate in local development organizations such as Homebuilders Association and SEDA. Share Make available knowledge learned from seminars, etc. to other staff, the MPC Board and various other boards through the use of memos, reports or presentations. Project #3: Staff/Special Studies As time permits, staff will research and prepare studies and recommendations for implementation of changes to the existing ordinance and policies. The individual studies will be determined based on board member requests, determination that some components of NewZO should be implemented early and trends noticed by staff during their application reviews and discussions with applicants, developers and other interested parties.

14 Finance and Systems Department Finance 2016 Work Program Finance and Systems Finance Ongoing Responsibilities The Finance and Systems department provides financial support and expertise to management and operating departments. This support includes preparation of the annual budget, annual audit, quarterly financial reports, disbursement of funds through the payroll and accounts payable functions, benefits management, employee relations and training, procurement processes, risk management, accounts receivable and information systems. One of the functions of the Finance and Systems department is the development and design of system-wide internal controls and systems to meet new accounting and auditing standards and to provide a framework for policy and procedural areas in need of improvement. A healthy framework includes skilled department heads and an ethical workplace. Ongoing Responsibility Provide financial management to MPC, including cash management, purchasing, human resources, insurance, policy development and inventory management Manage Payroll and Accounts Payable functions Prepare annual budget Coordination of annual audit Scope of responsibility Financial management of the organization Preparation of the payroll and accounts payable payments Prepare annual budget and related documentation Plan, prepare and coordinate annual audit with external auditors The Finance and Systems department is staffed by the Finance and Systems Director and an accountant. The Information Technology department reports to the Finance and Systems Director. Finance Projects Project #1: Prepare and complete Personnel/Human Resources chapter for Employee Handbook The first chapter of the Employee Manual has been completed with the adoption of the Financial Policies by the Planning Commission. The second chapter will detail the Personnel/Human Resources policies.

15 Finance and Systems Finance (Continued) Project #2: Risk Analysis Current financial regulations require that all organizations should prepare a risk analysis of the organization. The risk analysis will take into account the various financial functions and the internal controls designed to prevent fraud, theft or other less obvious risks. Project #3: Electronic Records As part of the electronic records process, Finance will be involved in the development of the processes and quality control standards. Project #4: Five Year Plan Begin development and preparation of a five-year financial plan to ensure the continued financial stability of the MPC.

16 Finance and Systems Information Technology 2016 Work Program Information Technology Department Ongoing Responsibilities The Information Technology department provides and maintains the information infrastructure for the MPC and provides information access to all concerned parties. Ongoing Responsibility Maintain infrastructure, capacity and web presence. Provide technical assistance to boards and staff of the MPC as needed. Provide specialized support as requested. Scope of responsibility Execute routine procedures to ensure that the existing infrastructure is operational and adequate; that technology based capacity to store and retrieve information is functioning and available for use; and that the web presence of the MPC is maintained and operational. Provide emergent and ongoing support to boards and departments as requested to employ existing and emerging technology, and ensure that this technology is both secure and functional. Provide custom programming support on a case by case basis as requested by boards and staff. The Information Technology department is staffed by the Network Administrator and a Systems Analyst. Information Technology Department Projects Project #1: Upgrade Operating Systems to Windows 10 Upgrade software used by desktops to Windows 10 in order to protect MPC s investment in this operating system and to support ongoing operations. Project #2: Upgrade Microsoft Office to the 2016 version, including implementing Cloud support Upgrade client installations to Office 2016, and migrate SharePoint and Exchange services to support cloud based deployment.

17 Finance and Systems Information Technology (Continued) Project #3: Provide Coding Support to SAGIS and the Planning Commission Provide dedicated software coding support to SAGIS to expand sagis.org capabilities. Provide coding support for the Planning Commission and related boards with electronic agenda project development. Project #4: Ongoing Project work Continue and complete ongoing projects. Task 4.1 Provide ongoing support to SAGIS, including upgrading the backup capability of the network infrastructure to support larger capability. Task 4.2 Provide in house developed upgrade solution for E-Agenda software.

18 Information Systems & Mapping 2016 Work Program Information Systems & Mapping Ongoing Responsibilities Ongoing Responsibility Customer Service Zoning Boards of Appeals mapping Mapping Support MAD for ENERGOV Scope of responsibility Staff provides customer service for appointments, s, call-ins and walk-ins for MPC publications and mapping products. Staff generates maps and preparation of mailing labels for each Zoning Board of Appeals petition. Staff provides mapping support for the various departments of the MPC. IS&M is responsible for the MAD and supporting ENERGOV with up to date addresses. Information Systems & Mapping Projects Project #1: Staff is adding PINS to the MAD as well as updating any PINS that have changed from the previous year Task Identity changed PINS Using the Parcel layer, determine all PINS that have changed. Identify all missing PINS List of altered PINS, 1 st qtr 2016 List of missing PINS, 1 st qtr 2016 Task PIN Updates Perform necessary steps to update PINS Update of altered PINS, 3 rd qtr 2016 Update of missing PINS, 4 th qtr 2016 Project #2: Master Address Database Update The daily maintenance of the MAD is a critical function that maintains its currency and accuracy. Task Address Review Review of addresses in database in areas of known development/changes Complete areas of active development

19 Information Systems & Mapping (Continued) Task Address Correction Correction of addresses within the layer Correction of addresses that are discovered Task Adding new addresses Add all new addresses to the layer Complete all areas of development that addresses have been approved Project #3: Rectify Aerial Photography / archived maps This is the process of taking the aerial photography / archived maps scanning them and putting them in the correct spatial alignment so they can be used as layers in the GIS. This is a multiyear project. Task Rectify remaining aerial photography / archived maps. Aerial / archived maps are scanned and rectified as time is available Project #4: Graphics work IS&M is charged with designing and creating all graphics work needed for the MPC. The individual jobs are small, but there are many of them throughout the year. With the volume of work expected it warrants being listed as a project. Task Design graphic as per request Task Create needed graphic by the requested deadline Project #5: PSA IS&M assists the public with their GIS mapping and data needs. Any member of the public can walk in off the street and get help with data, data analysis, data research and map making / reproduction. Task Specific per the request Task Deadline is specific to the request and availability of staff

20 SAGIS Ongoing Responsibilities The Chatham County Savannah SAGIS 2016 Work Program Ongoing Responsibility Maintaining Spatial Database Maintain roads layer for E911 Maintain and upgrade the internal SAGIS Map Viewer Maintain SAGIS.org, the public website Provide GIS support for Emergency Management and Response Provide GIS support for 3 rd party software Project Management for large scale data acquisitions Outreach & GIS Education in the community Customer Service Scope of responsibility Staff monitors, runs backups, optimizes and administers the spatial databases which contain over 550 combined layers. Maintenance of the roads layer is a critical task as the roads are the primary tool for mapping with the E911 Center for delivery of emergency services. The internal map viewer is a vital business product for City of Savannah, Chatham County, SAGIS staff and all of our partners. The external map viewer is a vital product for Chatham County citizens; the website requires ongoing maintenance, improvements, and updates. SAGIS provides immediate and long term GIS support for various emergency agencies in the county including CEMA, Savannah Fire, and SCMPD. SAGIS provides necessary GIS support and data maintenance for various 3 rd party software programs used by clients, such as Cityworks and Energov. SAGIS oversees data acquisition and standards for large scale data projects such regional imagery and LIDAR. GIS outreach to Chatham citizens, businesses and partners on education of GIS uses and how SAGIS benefits the county. Support GIS education in regional schools and universities through GIS Day and guest lectures. Handle data and mapping requests

21 SAGIS (Continued) The Chatham County Savannah SAGIS Projects Project #1: Centerlines Maintenance Maintain and update the workflow for new roads to be input into the centerline layer and loaded into new CAD software. Working with SCMPD for the process of updating the street centerlines and to stay current with the E911 system. Workflow implementation Keeping roads current with CAD system Project #2: GIS Services SAGIS provides GIS services to its partners on projects that vary in size and scope of work. These projects include working with the School board to geocode all students every semester, assistance to create applications that help deliver better information to the hands of logistics providers, input data into a format approved by the FAA, create products related to disaster response/recovery and keep them up to date, and represent the GIS needs for Chatham County/Savannah at regional meetings. Project #3: ArcGIS Task based viewers SAGIS currently has several deployed production viewers and the maintenance and upgrade of sites is a critical task for SAGIS. ArcGIS 10.3 provides the tools necessary to implement task based viewers for the individual departments/bureaus and their 3 rd party software integration. We will work with partners to create viewers that fit the department s/bureau s needs. This project is a multi-year project as there are many departments/bureaus and each individual site development time can range from weeks to months depending on needs and functionality. Task Maintenance of Viewers Install necessary updates, service packs, and patches Quick resolve time to viewer issues Task Work with partners to determine need and priority Chatham County List City of Savannah List Task Creation of Viewers Development of Viewer Implementation / Integration of Viewer

22 SAGIS (Continued) The Chatham County Savannah Project #4: Parcel Project The MPC, Chatham County (Engineering), and Board of Assessors have entered into an agreement with the University of Georgia, Carl Vinson Institute of Government Information Technology Outreach Services (ITOS) for the parcel data layer to be spatially corrected. SAGIS staff will work with BOA and County Engineering to QA/QC the data. This is a multi-year project. Project #5: Service Delivery Strategy SAGIS will work with Comprehensive Planning to develop, edit and publish GIS data and maps required for the Service Delivery Strategy required by the Service Delivery Act process overseen by the Georgia Department of Community Affairs. Task 5.1 Data Creation and Editing Publish maps for online review Meet with jurisdiction representatives for comments Update and publish data and maps following agreements

23 Transportation Ongoing Responsibilities The Chatham County Savannah Transportation 2016 Work Program The Transportation Department is responsible for carrying out the federally required Metropolitan Transportation Planning Process, through the Coastal Region Metropolitan Planning Organization (CORE MPO), thus ensuring the area s continued eligibility for federal transportation funding. Ongoing Responsibilities Long Range Transportation Plan (LRTP) Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP) Transportation Alternatives Project Selection Coastal Commuters ridesharing program (transitioning to CAT oversight in 2016) Traffic impact review of major development proposals Support of the CORE MPO Board Support of the CORE MPO Technical Coordinating Committee Support of the CORE MPO Economic Development and Freight Committee Support of the CORE MPO Citizens Advisory Committee Support of the CORE MPO Advisory Committee on Accessible Transportation Management of strategic transportation planning and implementation studies. Establishment of local transportation priorities (LRTP, SPLOST, TIA, etc.) In addition to the ongoing tasks described above, the CORE MPO staff conducts an extensive program of strategic transportation studies to address specific transportation issues and needs within the Savannah-Chatham County urbanized area and recommends both short and long term solutions. Transportation Projects Project #1: Road Diet Feasibility Study Many of the suburban areas within Chatham County have poor bicycle network connectivity, due to the need to use uninviting arterials or collectors as the only continuous route between origins and destinations. During development of the MPO s Non-Motorized Transportation Plan, several roadways were identified as potential locations for road diet or lane diet projects, with a goal of economically

24 Transportation (Continued) The Chatham County Savannah improving bicycle connectivity. In some cases, other benefits, such as pedestrian crossing safety, reduction in speeds, and improved aesthetics, may be realized as well. Road diets and lane diets are projects in which the existing pavement width is reallocated to new uses, such bike lanes, turn lanes, medians, or parking lanes, by removing a travel lane or by narrowing the lanes. The goals of such projects may be to reduce crashes, lower motor vehicle speeds, and/or improve bicycle and pedestrian accommodations. In this document, the term road diet refers to a project that reduces the number of through vehicle lanes (and may or may not change lane widths), while the term lane diet refers to a project that maintains the number of through vehicle lanes but reduces the width of those lanes. Before encouraging the implementation of a road diet or lane diet, it is desirable to understand potential adverse impacts. The MPO, in coordination with the appropriate implementing agency, will study the feasibility of a road diet or lane diet at a selected location, by estimating the operational impacts of such project for the subject corridor, intersections, and surrounding streets that could potentially be affected. Formation of stakeholder committee Documentation of existing conditions Development of conceptual solutions Final feasibility report Project# 2: Downtown Savannah Parking and Mobility Study Kicking off in 2015, the Downtown Savannah Parking and Mobility Study includes a comprehensive review of current parking supply, existing demand, future demand, regulations, operations, revenues and capital costs. A parking model will be developed as an aid in analyzing future demand and parking and mobility options. A strategic plan will be produced addressing: Policy Implications for Office, Tourism, Residential and Retail Design Guidelines; Land Use/Zoning Amendments; On-Street Parking (Neighborhoods and Corridors); Off-Street Parking (surface and structured); Public and Private Roles; Financial and Pricing Plan; Community Based Strategies; Neighborhood Based Strategies; Marketing Based Strategies; Implementation (by Character Area); Establishment of Parking Districts; Parking format details, baseline standards and permit areas; Hours of operation and enforcement; Meters and pricing; Permit program; Off-Street parking; Exceptions process details; Event day management; Transportation (Mobility) and parking management; Facility Plans; Funding and Recommendations. Project Management Plan Kick-Off Meeting Monthly Progress Reports and Quarterly Invoices

25 Transportation (Continued) The Chatham County Savannah Technical Report 1 - Policy Working Group Strategic Planning Workshops and Results Technical Report 2 Literature Review Summary Technical Report 3 Data, Research and Parking Demand (includes Role of Transit and Bicycle and Pedestrian Facilities, Market Research and User Surveys Technical Report 4 Parking Demand Estimates from Existing and Future Land Use Technical Report 5 Operations, Revenues and Capital Cost Data Technical Report 6 Current Parking Regulations Technical Report 7 Model Report and Scenarios (if implemented) Technical Report 8 Strategic Plan Scenarios Technical Report 9 Analyses and Evaluation of System-Wide Needs and Mobility Options Technical Report 10 Financial Options and Public Private Partnership Models Technical Report 11 Character Areas Technical Report 12 Public Involvement and Stakeholder Outreach Strategic Plan and Implementation Plan (stand alone document) Final Report (Written in executive summary form with the technical reports as appendices) The project will be complete by mid Project #3: Airport Area Transportation Master Plan This study is being developed at the request of SEDA and the Savannah Airport Commission. The Airport Area Transportation Master Plan will provide a transportation master plan for the area around the Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport. The plan will look at automobile traffic to the airport and area employment centers including Gulfstream. The plan will also look at freight movement serving Gulfstream, the interaction of the airport and the port and logistic centers supporting multimodal freight movement. The transportation master plan is needed to ensure the transportation network meets existing and future needs as this area continues to grow. The airport is just west of the Port of Savannah, the largest single container terminal in North America. With the deepening of Savannah Harbor and a new Inland Terminal planned for the port in 2018, airport expansion plans, new developments, and programed improvements, traffic is projected to increase through the region. The airport, already the second busiest in the state of Georgia and home to Gulfstream headquarters, has a need to accommodate existing traffic and anticipated growth at the airport and in the surrounding area. The airport transportation master plan will include a five-mile and ten-mile study radii from the airport. The five-mile study area will provide a more detailed analysis of existing deficiencies and future needs surrounding the airport area. Specific areas within the five-mile radius will be identified for additional detailed traffic analysis. The ten-mile study area will be used in the

26 Transportation (Continued) The Chatham County Savannah review of the travel demand model and in the consideration of general conditions that impact operations within the five-mile study area. Project Management Plan Kickoff Meeting Existing Conditions Inventory and Assessment Summary of previous studies and current plans and projects Existing Conditions Technical Memorandum Regional Model Modifications Model Results and Analyses Short and Long Term Needs Report Needs Assessment Technical Memorandum Project #4: Montgomery Street Two-Way Traffic Study This is a study of Montgomery Street and MLK Jr Boulevard between Broughton Street and Liberty Street to assess the feasibility of changing Montgomery Street from one way to two way operations. The two-way conversion of Montgomery Street between Broughton Street and Liberty Street is a future alternative in unification with the development of the Cultural Arts Center at Montgomery Street and Oglethorpe Avenue. This analysis will address both the existing and future traffic conditions surrounding the project site. Data collection and evaluation Intersection Capacity Analysis and Simulation Assess Cultural Arts Center Traffic Future Intersection Capacity Analysis and Simulation Improvement Recommendations Project #5: Arena Committee The executive director serves as a member of the Arena Committee, led by the city manager, and is chairman of the Mobility and Transportation Subcommittee. Meetings are underway and a scope of work to support this effort is under development. Project #6: Traffic Management Center and Advance Traffic Management Systems Building upon the vision articulated in the CORE Connections 2035 Framework Mobility Plan, in addition to the Tricentennial Plan s Unified Comprehensive Plan, the Chatham County - Savannah (MPC) has identified the need for an Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) plan to guide development of transportation resources which will support continued growth in the region in a manner that enhances key historic, cultural resources; for example, preserving the pedestrian orientation of areas of Savannah that pre-date automobiles and improving public transit coordination to improve the viability of walkable neighborhoods.

27 Transportation (Continued) The Chatham County Savannah A Traffic Control Center (TCC) will be integral to successful implementation of improved transportation services that will support attainment of city and county goals. The overall project, Chatham County Intelligent Transportation System and Traffic Control Center (ITS/TCC) Strategic Plan, is proposed in two phases. Phase 1, the Traffic Control Center and Surveillance Needs Assessment, is complete and was primarily an information collection phase. It will provide the baseline for driving the strategic planning process. Phase 2 will address the development of an ITS/TCC Strategic Plan and include a symposium to bring experts and other area leaders who have implemented successful systems elsewhere. These two phases together will help provide the vision and strategy for improving existing traffic operation management, as well as, putting into place the framework for supporting historic, cultural, economic, natural resources, and community goals set forth in the 2035 Framework Mobility Plan. Phase 1, assesses the need and concept for a city and countywide TCC, will be the initial step in guiding development of transportation capabilities that will support attainment of future transportation goals as well as providing the MPC, city, and county staff with the ability to improve traffic operations in the near-term. Based on the information collected in Phase 1, an alternatives evaluation will be conducted in Phase 2 that will identify potential improvement options that should be considered to address short-, medium- and long-term traffic management needs. Next, a deployment strategy will be developed based on industry best practices that leverage the existing traffic signal system and infrastructure to the greatest extent possible. The strategy will detail the phased deployment of the recommended infrastructure solutions, including signal system hardware and software, TCC components, a reliable and robust communications network desired ITS field devices, and other traffic management and ITS strategies, as appropriate. The ITS/TCC Strategic Plan, formed from the alternatives analysis and deployment strategy, will also provide guidelines and recommendations for TCC room design. The strategic plan will be developed consistent with the principles of the Systems Engineering Process for ITS project planning, design, implementation, and operations. Ongoing work in 2016 will include the execution of a freight land use study. In February of 2016, the CORE MPO will host a TMC symposium highlighting TMC technologies and best practices. Phase One: Complete Phase Two: Ongoing Technical Memorandum on Goals and Objectives

28 Transportation (Continued) The Chatham County Savannah Technical Memorandum on Evaluation of Alternatives Draft Implementation Plan and Deployment Strategy Chatham County ITS/TCC Strategic Plan Report (10 hard copies) Information Flyer (20 hard copies) Slide Presentation TMC Symposium: February, Project #7: Victory Drive Corridor Study Phase III The Victory Drive corridor study aims to preserve, revitalize and maintain its historic, commemorative landscape and prominence as a signature boulevard. Through a public-private collaboration, this study seeks to develop an implementable plan incorporating context sensitive solutions to balance the transportation and land use demands of a contemporary street. In early 2014, the Chatham County-Savannah (MPC), partnered with several local advocacy groups to initiate a two-phase planning study of the Victory Drive Corridor. The first phase will study the entire US-80/Victory Drive Corridor between Ogeechee Road and the south end of Tybee Island. The second phase, completed in 2015, studied in greater detail, The segment from Ogeechee Road to Martin Luther King, Jr., Blvd. This Victory Drive Corridor Study is conducted by the Chatham County-Savannah Metropolitan Planning Commission on behalf of the Coastal Region MPO (CORE MPO). In addition to the The 19.8-mile long study corridor begins at the Victory Drive and Ogeechee Road intersection and continues east and south to the end of Butler Avenue on Tybee Island. The two major sections of the corridor are defined with the Wilmington River as the dividing line. The initial corridor study is a two-phase process. The initial phase begins with a high-level assessment of the entire corridor study area from Ogeechee Road to Tybee Island. Additional phases are in the planning stages. The second and subsequent phases of the corridor study will concentrate on a specific portion, or focus areas along the corridor. The focus areas will be identified during Phase I. Key criteria for selecting corridor area are being an area of the corridor at greatest risk of further degradation and as a section of the corridor with a unique set of opportunities and potential which merits further exploration. This study is intended to serve as a model, or potential pilot-project, focused on implementation and the specific steps necessary to achieve the vision defined for the area along corridors. Phase III of the Victory Drive Corridor Study will be carried out in 2016 to address the segment from Bee Road to Skidaway Road, an area of active commercial redevelopment.

29 Transportation (Continued) The Chatham County Savannah Planning Team Charrette Week. November 3-7 Findings & Recommendations... December, 2014 Phase I Presentation... January, 2015 Phase II Focus Area Assessment & Recommendations Data Collection... January, 2015 Planning Team Charrette Week February, 2015 Findings & Recommendations... April, 2015 Phase II Presentation.. May, 2015 Phase III Data Collection/Field Work. TBD Phase III Team Charrette Week... TBD Phase III Findings and Recommendations... TBD Project 8: Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) Web Based Tools This project will improve public access to the CORE MPO TIP by developing an automated web based TIP. This project will develop a customized TIP database and web based reports and mapping interface along with customized search and query tools. The resulting web based TIP will be readily accessible via a user friendly interface on web enable computers, smart phones and similar devices.

30 Urban Planning and Historic Preservation 2016 Work Program Urban Planning and Historic Preservation Ongoing Responsibilities The Urban Planning and Historic Preservation Department is responsible for historic preservation related activities within the City of Savannah and unincorporated Chatham County including staffing four appointed Boards, two technical advisory committees, design review for locally designated historic districts and properties, and environmental review identified in programmatic agreements. Professional Preservation staff ensures that requirements of the City and County s Certified Local Government (CLG) agreement with the National Park Service are met. Additionally, the department provides educational outreach through publications, lectures, workshops, and conducts historical research as needed. The department works closely with city and county departments on historic preservation related issues including zoning, enforcement, historic designation and rehabilitation, and monitoring of significant sites. Historic preservation is a component of various projects and the department coordinates with multiple departments and organizations to provide for consistency and protection of Savannah and Chatham County s cultural resources. The department will continue to work with the New Zoning Ordinances (NewZO) team to complete historic sections, provide training to appointed preservation-related boards and newly appointed boards as part of the NewZO, participate in disaster preparedness plans for cultural resources as a member of the Savannah Heritage Emergency Response (SHER) under CEMA, and provide staff support for City Site Plan Review (SPR) for properties in historic districts. Staff will continue to oversee multi-discipline planning projects to include the I-16 Exit Ramp Removal Study, Phase 2. Ongoing Responsibility Scope of Responsibility Tasks Provide staff support for Historic District Board of Prepare for 12 public meetings each year Historic Preservation Review (HDBR) related Boards appointed Review approximately 400 Certificate of by the City of Savannah Appropriateness (COA) applications and and Chatham County prepare staff reports Chatham County Historic Preservation Commission (CCHPC) Savannah-Chatham County Historic Site and Monument Commission (HSMC) Savannah-Chatham County Historic Site and Monument Technical Advisory Committee (HSMC TAC) Prepare for four public meetings each year Review approximately four COA applications and prepare staff reports Prepare for six public meetings each year Review approximately ten Monument/Marker/Public Art applications and prepare staff reports Solicit, receive and distribute comments approximately twice per year Review approximately two Monument/ Public Art applications and prepare staff reports