The City of Allen has identified areas in need of accessible ramps and sidewalks and intends to apply for funding through the Federal Government Transportation Alternative Set-Aside Program, administered by the North Central Texas Council of Governments (NCTCOG).  Our submitted project will include ramp and sidewalk improvements within the Allen High School, Lowery Freshman Center, and Gene Reed Elementary School walk zones.  These areas were selected based on the grant criteria provided by NCTCOG.  The grant favors projects that can provide regional linkages, improve safety, reduce barriers, and connect to activity centers.  The goal of the project will be to provide safe access to these schools and thereby encourage more pedestrian traffic. 

The project is estimated to cost $610,099 for the Pebblebrook Drive and Sycamore Creek Sidewalk improvements.  Of these amounts, 20% is a required local match and the remaining 80% of the project is reimbursable after the completion of the project.  The funding for projects related to this grant, if awarded, will come from un-programmed non-bond funds within the capital improvement program.  If awarded, a formal budget for these improvements will be developed once the projects are designed, bid, and ready for award. 

Staff recommends adopting a resolution authorizing the City Manager to apply for, accept, reject, alter, or terminate a grant through the Government Transportation Alternative Set-Aside Program, administered by the North Central Texas Council of Governments (NCTCOG). 

I make a motion to adopt Resolution No.____________(R) authorizing the City Manager to apply for, accept, reject, alter, or terminate a grant through the Government Transportation Alternative Set-Aside Program, administered by the North Central Texas Council of Governments (NCTCOG).