A need exists to replace the drainage culvert (buried box conduit) within the DART right-of-way (ROW), just upstream of the Allenwood Neighborhood. The culvert structure beneath the DART tracks has structurally failed (split) and needs to be replaced.

The Engineering Department recommends replacement of the culvert at a lower elevation, which will also increase the drainage capacity for that area.  Since the culvert lies within DART ROW, a license agreement is required to grant permission for the City to make improvements within property they own and control.

As it stands now, the steps toward construction are expected to be as follows:

1. Complete and finalize design drawings
2. Finalize a License Agreement between DART and the City of Allen
3. Obtain bids for construction and program funds
4. City Council to award construction to a contractor
5. Contractor to apply for permit to DART to enter their right-of-way
6. Construction to commence

A schedule has not been finalized for the steps above, but staff will be working to finalize design and negotiations have already begun with DART on the terms of the license agreement.  DART staff has agreed to support the project and contribute $25,000 to the project.  The license agreement will obligate the City of Allen to fund the balance of the project and own and maintain the new culvert, once reconstructed in the DART ROW. 

There is no budgetary impact at this time. The Allenwood Drainage Improvements project funding will be presented to City Council for authorization at a future date.

Staff recommends the City Council authorize the City Manager to negotiate and execute a License Agreement with Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) regarding Allenwood Drainage Improvements.

I make a motion to Authorize the City Manager to negotiate and execute a License Agreement with Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) regarding Allenwood Drainage Improvements.