Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Task Assignment MPD 029-13 Final Report March 14, 2014 Arizona Department of Transportation T AB LE O F CO NTE N TS Page 1. INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................................................... 1 Study Area Overview.......................................................................................................................... 2 Purpose and Need ............................................................................................................................. 4 Goals and Objectives ........................................................................................................................ 5 Study Process .................................................................................................................................... 5 Tribal Transportation Program (TTP) ................................................................................................... 6 2. PREVIOUS STUDIES, REPORTS, AND PLANS .............................................................................................. 7 Ongoing and Completed Studies ....................................................................................................... 7 Programmed and Scoped Projects .................................................................................................... 10 3. LAND USE AND SOCIOECONOMIC CONDITIONS ................................................................................... 11 Land Ownership .............................................................................................................................. 11 Land Use ........................................................................................................................................ 11 Existing Socioeconomic Conditions ................................................................................................... 14 Future Development and Growth Trends ........................................................................................... 17 4. EXISTING AND FUTURE TRANSPORTATION CONDITIONS ........................................................................... 19 Existing Roadway Characteristics ...................................................................................................... 19 Existing Traffic Conditions ................................................................................................................ 27 Crash Data Analysis ........................................................................................................................ 34 Future Traffic Conditions .................................................................................................................. 42 Other Modes of Transportation ........................................................................................................ 64 Transportation Issues, Deficiencies, and Needs Summary .................................................................. 68 5. EVALUATION OF IMPROVEMENTS ........................................................................................................ 71 Evaluation Criteria ........................................................................................................................... 71 Roadway Improvement Options........................................................................................................ 72 Intersection Improvement Options .................................................................................................... 79 Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report i T AB LE O F CO NTE N TS (CO N TIN UE D) Page Other Modes of Transportation Options............................................................................................ 83 Prioritization of Improvement Options ............................................................................................... 86 6. STAKEHOLDER AND PUBLIC INPUT ....................................................................................................... 87 Phase I- Stakeholder Outreach ......................................................................................................... 87 Phase I – Public Outreach ................................................................................................................ 88 Phase II- Stakeholder Outreach ........................................................................................................ 90 Phase II – Public Outreach ............................................................................................................... 91 7. AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERNS.................................................................... 92 Topography and Geology ................................................................................................................ 92 Vegetation....................................................................................................................................... 92 Biology ........................................................................................................................................... 93 Hydrology ....................................................................................................................................... 94 Prime and Unique Farmlands ........................................................................................................... 96 Noise Impacts ................................................................................................................................. 96 Air Quality ...................................................................................................................................... 96 Utilities ............................................................................................................................................ 97 Hazardous Materials ........................................................................................................................ 97 Visual Resources .............................................................................................................................. 97 Cultural Resources ........................................................................................................................... 98 Section 4(f) and Section 6(f) Resources ............................................................................................ 101 Environmental Justice Review (Title VI) ............................................................................................. 102 8. PLAN FOR IMPROVEMENTS .............................................................................................................. 104 Roadway Improvement Recommendations ...................................................................................... 104 Pedestrian, Bicycle, and Trail Facility Recommendations ................................................................... 170 Transit Recommendations .............................................................................................................. 170 Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report ii T AB LE O F CO NTE N TS (CO N TIN UE D) Page Title VI Implications ........................................................................................................................ 173 Tribal Transportation Program Update Recommendations ............................................................... 175 9. ROADWAY MAINTENANCE PLAN .................................................................................................... 176 Study Roadway Maintenance Needs ............................................................................................... 176 Roadway Maintenance Estimates .................................................................................................... 185 10. TRANSPORTATION PLAN IMPLEMENTATION .......................................................................................... 186 Funding Sources ............................................................................................................................ 186 Partnerships .................................................................................................................................. 188 Implementation Guidelines ............................................................................................................ 197 Appendix A: Phase 1 Stakeholder Outreach Summary Report Appendix B: Phase 1 Public Outreach Summary Report Appendix C: Phase 2 Stakeholder Outreach Summary Report Appendix D: Phase 2 Public Outreach Summary Report Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report iii L IS T OF TAB LE S Page 3.1: Population and Housing Unit Growth Trends ................................................................................... 14 3.2: Potential Study Area Developments ................................................................................................. 17 3.3: Future Population, Housing Units, and Employment ......................................................................... 18 4.1: BIA Functional Classification Definition ............................................................................................ 19 4.2: Existing Intersection Level of Service Summary ................................................................................. 34 4.3: Crash Locations, Severity, and Crash Rate (2008 - 2012) ................................................................. 36 4.4: 2018 Intersection Level of Service Summary .................................................................................... 43 4.5: 2023 Intersection Level of Service Summary .................................................................................... 51 4.6: 2033 Intersection Level of Service Summary .................................................................................... 52 4.7: NTS Transit Routes ......................................................................................................................... 67 5.1: Evaluation Criteria ......................................................................................................................... 71 5.2: Cross-Section Options .................................................................................................................... 73 5.3: Lighting Options ............................................................................................................................ 76 5.4: Traffic Calming Options ................................................................................................................. 77 5.5: Pedestrian Facility Options .............................................................................................................. 83 5.6: Transit Facility Options ................................................................................................................... 85 7.1: Number of Cultural Resources Projects by Route Segment............................................................... 100 7.2: List of Cultural Resources Sites by Route Segment ........................................................................... 100 8.1: Short-Term Recommendations ...................................................................................................... 104 8.2: Mid-Term Recommendations ........................................................................................................ 148 8.3: Long-Term Recommendations ...................................................................................................... 164 8.4: Recommended Transit Stop Locations............................................................................................ 172 8.5: Recommended Project Impacts and Advantages on Title VI Populations ........................................... 174 9.1: Road Maintenance Activities.......................................................................................................... 176 9.2: Level of Development ................................................................................................................... 181 Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report iv L IS T OF TAB LE S (CO NTI N UE D) Page 9.3: Road Maintenance Activities.......................................................................................................... 185 10.1: Potential Funding Sources ........................................................................................................... 189 L IS T OF FIG URES Page 1.1: Study Area ....................................................................................................................................... 3 1.2: Study Process ................................................................................................................................... 6 3.1: Existing Land Use and Potential Growth Areas ................................................................................. 13 3.2: Total Population per Acre ............................................................................................................... 15 3.3: Total Occupied Housing Units per Acre ........................................................................................... 16 4.1: Number of Lanes and Posted Speed Limits ...................................................................................... 23 4.2: Speed Limits Versus Actual Travel Speeds ........................................................................................ 24 4.3: Traffic Control Devices and Signage ............................................................................................... 25 4.4: Fencing and Cattle Guard Conditions ............................................................................................. 26 4.5: Existing Average Daily Traffic Volumes ............................................................................................ 28 4.6: Level of Service .............................................................................................................................. 29 4.7: Existing Level of Service .................................................................................................................. 30 4.8: Existing Intersection Lane Configuration .......................................................................................... 31 4.9: Existing Intersection Turning Movement Volumes .............................................................................. 32 4.10: Existing Intersection Level of Service .............................................................................................. 33 4.11: Crash Trends from January 2008 to December 2012 .................................................................... 35 4.12: Crash Location and Crash Severity ................................................................................................ 37 4.13: Crash Density and Major Cause of Crash...................................................................................... 38 4.14: Crash Trends by Month (January 2008 to December 2012) ........................................................... 39 4.15: Crash Location by Intersection Relation ......................................................................................... 41 Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report v L IS T OF FIG URES (C ONTI NU E D) Page 4.16: 2018 Projected Average Daily Traffic Volumes ............................................................................... 45 4.17: 2018 Level of Service ................................................................................................................... 46 4.18: 2018 Intersection Lane Configuration ........................................................................................... 47 4.19: 2018 Intersection Turning Movement Volumes ............................................................................... 48 4.20: 2018 Intersection Level of Service ................................................................................................. 49 4.21: 2023 Projected Average Daily Traffic Volumes ............................................................................... 54 4.22: 2023 Level of Service ................................................................................................................... 55 4.23: 2023 Intersection Lane Configuration ........................................................................................... 56 4.24: 2023 Intersection Turning Movement Volumes ............................................................................... 57 4.25: 2023 Intersection Level of Service ................................................................................................. 58 4.26: 2033 Projected Average Daily Traffic Volumes ............................................................................... 59 4.27: 2033 Level of Service ................................................................................................................... 60 4.28: 2033 Intersection Lane Configuration ........................................................................................... 61 4.29: 2033 Intersection Turning Movement Volumes ............................................................................... 62 4.30: 2033 Intersection Level of Service ................................................................................................. 63 4.31: Existing Pedestrian Facilities .......................................................................................................... 65 4.32: Existing Transit Facilities ............................................................................................................... 66 4.33: Roadway Issues and Needs Summary............................................................................................ 69 4.34: Pedestrian, Bicycle, and Transit Summary of Issues and Needs ....................................................... 70 7.1: Wildlife Corridors and Hydrological Features ................................................................................... 95 8.1: Recommended Pedestrian and Trail Facilities ................................................................................. 171 9.1: Maintenance Activities and Frequency - Level of Development 1 ..................................................... 182 9.2: Maintenance Activities and Frequency - Level of Development 2 ..................................................... 183 9.3: Maintenance Activities and Frequency - Level of Development 3 ..................................................... 184 Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report vi 1 . INTRO DUCTIO N The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT), in cooperation with Apache County District II and the Fort Defiance Chapter of the Navajo Nation, analyzed the traffic circulation conditions of Navajo Routes 7, 12, 54, 110, and 112 within the Fort Defiance Industrial Area which is designated as a major growth area on the Navajo Nation. The study was funded by the Federal Highway Administration’s (FHWA) State Planning and Research Program and administered through ADOT’s Multimodal Planning Division's Planning Assistance for Rural Areas (PARA) program. The primary goal of this study was to develop a transportation improvement plan that promotes safety and mobility, enhances economic vitality, improves community livability, encourages environmental and cultural sensitivity, and supports current and planned economic development. While the study focuses mainly on Navajo Routes 7, 12, 54, 110, and 112, other key local streets were analyzed to optimize traffic circulation performance. This study recommends phased improvement projects to address the most critical transportation needs of the study roadways in the Fort Defiance study area. Study findings will also be used to update the Navajo Nation's Road Inventory Field Data System (RIFDS) and Tribal Transportation Improvement Program (TTIP) over the next 5-, 10-, and 20-year planning horizon periods. Technical Advisory Committee The study was guided by a Technical Advisory Committee (TAC). The role of the TAC has been to provide technical guidance, support, advice, suggestions, recommendations, and to perform document reviews throughout the study process. TAC members included representatives from: • Fort Defiance Chapter • Navajo Housing Authority • Apache County District II • Navajo Nation Department of Agriculture • Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) Division of Transportation – Fort Defiance Agency • Indian Health Service – Office of Environmental Health and Engineering • Navajo Division of Transportation (NDOT) – Technical and Planning Departments • Indian Health Service – Fort Defiance Indian Medical Center • Navajo Division of Economic Development • Northern Arizona Council of Governments • Navajo Transit System • Navajo Tribal Utility Authority (NTUA) • Navajo Nation Department of Emergency Medical Services • Indian Affiliates, Inc • Navajo Nation Forestry • OUR Tse Ho Tso • Navajo Nation Department of Public Safety • ADOT Multimodal Planning Division • Navajo Nation Fire Department • ADOT Environmental Planning Group • Window Rock Unified School District • ADOT Communications Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study • Navajo Power LLC Final Report 1 Stakeholders To develop a thorough understanding of the issues, deficiencies, and needs, the study team identified and interviewed a core group of stakeholders on May 23, 2013. The stakeholders included representatives from all major Navajo Nation departments, Fort Defiance Chapter, Apache County District II, BIA, Fort Defiance Agency, Navajo DOT, and NACOG. A second set of stakeholder interviews was conducted on October 16, 2013 to garner input on potential improvement recommendations. At both meetings, a questionnaire was distributed to each stakeholder and was followed up with an open discussion. Chapter 6 includes a detailed summary of the stakeholder outreach process. STUDY AREA OVERVIEW Originally established in 1851 as a military post, today, Fort Defiance is home to approximately 3,600 residents (Census 2010) and serves as a major center for education, health, Federal and Tribal government operations, industrial enterprises, and agriculture. While the study area has experienced a significant population increase, unemployment within the community has also increased. Fort Defiance is designated as one of the Navajo Nation's Growth Centers and several housing, commercial, and industrial developments are planned within the community. This study focused on major paved roadways within the Fort Defiance study area, including Navajo Routes N7, N12, N54, N110, and N112. These major routes serve local, commuter, and industrial traffic accessing residential, commercial, and industrial areas within the community. Commuter traffic to Window Rock, the Fort Defiance Industrial Area, and Fort Defiance Indian Hospital accounts for a significant amount of daily traffic on the study roadways. In addition, walking is a primary mode of transportation that is preferred by many community residents. Figure 1.1 provides an illustration of the Fort Defiance Industrial Area and study roadways. Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 2 Figure 1.1. Study Area Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 3 PURPOSE AND NEED The Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study was initiated to develop a planning strategy to improve the mobility and safety within the Fort Defiance Industrial Area. The need for this study stemmed directly from the desire of the Fort Defiance Chapter and Apache County District II to increase economic vitality, improve community livability, and enhance transportation conditions along the Area's major transportation routes. The project purpose is demonstrated with the following statement of need: • Address Safety and Operational Needs. The current roadway network needs to be evaluated to identify solutions to improve safety and mobility, optimize traffic operations, and enhance overall streetscaping. Key issues that need to be addressed include: o Existing roadway and intersection design is not optimal, as commuter and truck traffic often causes congestion and unsafe conditions. o Roadways need to be upgraded to meet BIA design standards. o Roadways lack shoulders which limit vehicles from pulling over or yielding to emergency vehicles. o Vehicles travel at high speeds, particularly in school zones, causing unsafe driving and walking conditions. o The area has limited pedestrian walkways, crosswalks, and bicycle facilities. • Accommodate Planned Land Use and Future Growth. Designated as one of the Navajo Nation's growth centers and industrial park areas, significant economic development activities will greatly increase truck and commuter congestion along study roadways and will require updated facilities to accommodate traffic and to promote multimodal transportation. • Provide Bicycle, Pedestrian, and Trail Connections Between Activity Centers. Sidewalks and bike paths are limited and unsafe within numerous locations of the study area. Improvements are necessary to provide continuous and safe connections between business and activity centers for residents and for recreational purposes. • Promote Economic Growth and Community Livability while Maintaining the Area's Character. A plan for transportation investments that encourages economic growth needs to be developed along the study roadways where local business can thrive while maintaining the rural and historic nature of the Fort Defiance growth area. Transportation investments that provide transportation choices and connections at the local and regional level can strengthen local businesses, spur business growth and job creation, encourage activity among residents, and promote tourism. The primary purpose for this study was to develop a comprehensive, transportation long-range plan that can provide guidance to the Fort Defiance Chapter, Navajo Nation, and Apache County District II when making future land use and multimodal transportation decisions. Recommendations in this study will enable the Navajo Nation and the County to facilitate safer and more efficient infrastructure for the traveling public and guide the development along the study roadways. Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 4 GOALS AND OBJECTIVES At the first kick-off meeting with the Technical Advisory Committee (TAC), a visioning exercise was conducted to discuss the study area issues, community values, and study expectations. The process resulted in the following objectives for the study: • Identify projects to preserve existing transportation infrastructure o Identify roads in need of pavement preservation o Address structural and functional deficiencies of bridges o Perform traffic analysis and recommend operational improvements for existing critical intersections o Identify safety improvements for intersections and roadways that have high crashes • Identify improvements to enhance traffic circulation • Develop standards for roadway cross-sections • Identify pedestrian, bicycle, and transit needs • Identify low-cost improvements • Group projects when possible to reduce costs • Enhance connectivity between transportation modes – vehicles, transit, pedestrian, bicycle • Prepare an Implementation Plan • o Identify funding sources and strategies o Develop a System Maintenance Plan Communicate with the TAC, stakeholders, public, Navajo Nation, and the Fort Defiance Chapter at appropriate intervals to present results and obtain feedback STUDY PROCESS Development of a transportation plan consists of a comprehensive six phase process: data collection, analysis of existing and future conditions, stakeholder involvement, and analysis of improvement scenarios, recommendations, and public outreach. Throughout the process, the study team maintained consistent contact with the TAC and stakeholders and conducted extensive public outreach efforts. Figure 1.2 illustrates the process utilized for this study. Working Paper 1: Existing and Future Conditions inventoried and analyzed the existing and future conditions in the study area, including existing transportation system deficiencies, issues, and needs. The First Public Open House was conducted on August 7, 2013 to present existing and projected transportation conditions and issues. Working Paper 2: Draft Transportation Improvement Plan evaluated and identified improvement projects that addressed the needs and deficiencies identified in Working Paper 1. The Second Public Open House was conducted on January 8, 2014 to present the Draft Transportation Improvement Plan. Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 5 Figure 1.2. Study Process Technical Advisory Committee Inventory Current and Future Conditions for All Travel Modes Forecast Future Conditions Obtain Stakeholder Input Identify Deficiencies and Forecast Future Needs Present to Stakeholders and Public Seek Input Identify and Analyze Solutions Recommend a Phased (Short, Mid, and Long) Improvement Plan Present to Stakeholders and Public Final Report Seek Input Fort Defiance Chapter, Navajo DOT, Apache County District II, ADOT TRIBAL TRANSPORTATION PROGRAM (TTP) Jointly administered by the FHWA, BIA, and US Department of Transportation, the Tribal Transportation Program (TTP), which replaced the former Indian Reservation Roads (IRR) program, addresses the transportation needs of tribal governments by providing safe and adequate transportation and public road access to and within Indian reservations, Indian lands, and Alaska Native Village communities. Under the Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century Act (P.L. 112-141), the program generally continues the IRR program, while adding a certain percentage of funds to tribal bridge and safety projects. Under the TTP, the previous Indian Reservation Roads Inventory (IRRI) changed names to National Tribal Transportation Facility Inventory (NTTFI). The NTTFI is a comprehensive national inventory of tribal transportation facilities that are eligible for financial assistance under the TTP. In order to obtain proper funding, it is imperative that the NTTFI accurately reflects the conditions of the tribal roadways. Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 6 2 . P REVI OU S S TU DIE S, R E POR TS , A ND P LA NS This chapter presents a review of studies, plans, and programs relevant to this study. Review of previous and current planning efforts often provides an insight into previously identified transportation issues and potential transportation improvements. This chapter also summarizes approved future transportation improvements within the study area. ONGOING AND COMPLETED STUDIES 2012 St. Michaels-Window Rock-Fort Defiance Multimodal Long Range Transportation Study The 2012 St. Michaels-Window Rock-Fort Defiance Multimodal Long Range Transportation Study examined the current and future multimodal transportation conditions within the St. Michaels, Window Rock, and Fort Defiance corridor areas. The study utilized the BIA Road Inventory Field Data System (RIFDS) and a multitude of safety and transportation datasets to determine existing roadway conditions. Based on analysis of existing and future needs and deficiencies, the study developed a set of roadway, intersection, and multimodal improvement projects to enhance safety and mobility within the Fort Defiance Chapter. Within the Fort Defiance Industrial Area, the following improvement projects were recommended: • Construct street lighting along N7, N12, N110, and N112 • Resurface the unpaved portion of N112, north of N7, to a paved road • Widen N110 to a three lane roadway and resurface N110 from Paquotte Drive to 8th Street • Pave Blue Canyon Drive, TR1456 to the Fire Department, TR1457 for access to the NTUA • Reconstruct pavement along Black Creek Drive and Aspen Canyon Road • Install solar speed monitors at the N12/N112 intersection • Improve signing and pavement markings, upgrade signal display, provide a marked crosswalk, and install overhead pedestrian signal at the N12/N110 intersection • At Window Rock High School, construct a right turn lane, install pedestrian crosswalks, and a HAWK Pedestrian Signal Beacon on N12 • Install a beacon signal and northbound right turn lane at the N12/TR1456 intersection for emergency access • Construct northbound right turn lane at N12/TR1457 intersection • Install traffic signals and advanced intersection warning signs at the N112/N110 intersection • Construct sidewalks along N7, N12, N110, and N112 from east of Bonito Drive to Blue Canyon Road • Construct shared-use paths along N112 and N12 south of N110 • Widen shoulders to accommodate bike lanes along N7, N54, and N112 • Develop a soft path equestrian trail along Black Creek Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 7 2004 Fort Defiance Community Land Use Plan The Fort Defiance Chapter Land Use Plan was conducted as a means to establish a chapter wide vision for the future growth and sustainability of the area. The Plan was formed with an emphasis on addressing community participation, land suitability, infrastructure and land use, with the main focus of preserving the Chapter’s natural beauty while improving the amenities and livability of its urbanized areas. Issues and development areas identified in the Plan included: • Development of a mini-mall at the southwest corner of N12/N7 intersection, future residential growth by the Hooghan Project, and commercial and residential development along N112 • N12 corridor development as a major tourist corridor is in need of recreation facilities and retail sites • Drainage issues to housing areas on the east slope of the Fort Defiance hills, west of Black Creek, along N110, and below grade commercial site southeast of N12/N54 intersection Key recommendations included: • Infill development at locations where additional development will not overburden existing infrastructure and road circulation will not be interrupted • Establish growth boundaries around major development areas to promote community development and minimize sprawl • Increase residential density to improve availability of public services • Encourage commercial development immediately adjacent to major roadways • Local shuttle service within the Chapter 2009 Navajo Nation Long Range Transportation Plan The 2009 Navajo Nation Long Range Transportation Plan identified the Navajo Nation’s multimodal transportation needs for the next 20 years, in conjunction with development strategies for implementing improvements. The study was based on a comprehensive analysis of existing and future transportation needs throughout the Navajo Nation. The Fort Defiance area was identified in the study as a major growth center within the Nation. Recommended improvements in the Fort Defiance area included: • Add a local transit circulator route between Fort Defiance and Window Rock • Rehabilitate Slick Rock Creek and Upper Bonito Wash bridges • Monitor the intersection of N112/N110 for future traffic controls • Develop a street system that promotes travel continuity, new development, and pedestrian/bicycle mobility Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 8 2009 Navajo Transit System Five-Year Plan The Navajo Transit System Five-Year Plan was a Nation-wide assessment of the current transit needs and service deficiencies of the Nation. The Transit Plan provides a roadmap for future transit services to better accommodate current users and for future ridership in the coming years. The study analyzed ridership characteristics within the Nation and found that the majority of riders were adults that utilized transit for employment purposes. Recommended improvements in the Fort Defiance area include: • Open a Regional Transit Center in the Window Rock/Fort Defiance area • Add local transit circulator service between Fort Defiance and Window Rock which would operate throughout the day 2009 Diné Tah “Among the People” Scenic Road Corridor Management Plan The Diné Tah “Among the People” Scenic Road Corridor Management Plan (CMP) established a management plan along the Diné Tah Scenic Road (N12 from I-40 to Chinle) with the ultimate goal of being designated as a National Scenic Byway or All-American Road. The purpose of this study was to develop a comprehensive plan for the vision of the corridor to assist agencies, land owners, and the public in managing, developing, and conserving the roadway corridor. Recommended improvements include: • Right-of-way fencing in areas with high occurrences of vehicle crashes with animals, as well as cattle guards and wildlife crossings • Dedicated right turn deceleration lanes in urbanized areas • Allow for volunteer services within roadway right-of-way to assist with roadway beautification • Add pedestrian crossing, sidewalks, and bicycle paths in urban areas • Install street lighting in locations with high accident rates to increase visibility and safety • Develop signage guidelines • Within urban areas, install landscape planting along the corridor 2006 Navajo Nation N12 Road Safety Audit The Navajo Nation N12 Road Safety Audit was commissioned by the FHWA as a way to demonstrate the usefulness and effectiveness of Road Safety Audits to tribal road agencies. The audit investigated roadway geometry, collision summaries, and vehicle volumes to highlight various safety issues along the N12 corridor. Key elements identified in the study include: • AADT along N12 between Window Rock and Fort Defiance ranges between 14,000 and 24,000 vehicles, with speed limits varying between 35 to 55 mph • While the N12/N110 intersection in Fort Defiance has 40 percent less traffic than that of the N12/N100 intersection in Window Rock, the intersection has almost the same amount of vehicular crashes (59 crashes reported at N12/N110 intersection) • Injury-causing crashes were more prevalent, and typically involved injuring more occupants, at the N12/N110 intersection in Fort Defiance than major intersections in Window Rock Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 9 • Safety issues identified at the N12/N110 intersection included: o The intersection configuration and conspicuousness may be limited, especially on the westbound approach o Horizontal and vertical curves on the westbound approach to the intersection limits driver's view of lanes, traffic control, and conflicting vehicles movements at driveways o Movements at driveways to the gas stations located northeast and northwest of the intersection may contribute to conflicts o A Jersey barrier that is located on the west side of the intersection presents a fixedobject hazard o Lane markings on the east exit leg are not clear o Jaywalking pedestrians may cause drivers to slow or stop unexpectedly o The intersection has a risk rating of "C" • Recommended improvements to the intersection included: o Improve signing and pavements markings o Upgrade the signal display and remove the Jersey barrier on the west side of the intersection o Review opportunities for access management o Upgrade the east exit leg via improved pavement marking, access consolidation, or realignment of the right turn lane 2012 Comprehensive Community Assessment for Navajo Head Start The Comprehensive Community Assessment for Navajo Head Start was conducted as part of a Head Start grant negotiation between the Navajo Nation and the Office of Head Start. The study included data collection and analysis of relevant information about the Nation's Head Start and Early Head Start service areas. The study identified 25 head start centers (five of which are now closed), with 73 staff, 361 enrolled children, and 22 classrooms in use in the Fort Defiance Chapter. In the Fort Defiance study area, the Fort Defiance EHS (infant and toddler) and the Fort Defiance Immersion School have a total of 30 enrolled children and eight staff. PROGRAMMED AND SCOPED PROJECTS The Intermodal Transportation Division at ADOT published the Arizona State Transportation Improvement Program (STIP), Fiscal Years 2013-2017 that listed statewide transportation improvement projects. The STIP includes projects recommended by the Tribal Transportation Program's (TTP) Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) for all tribes in the western region including the Navajo Nation. No projects were listed in the 2013-2017 STIP for the study area. The 2013 Navajo Nation Tribal Transportation Improvement Program (TTIP) did not include any specific roadway improvement projects for the study corridors within the Fort Defiance area. Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 10 3 . LA N D U SE A ND S OCIO ECO NOMIC CO NDITI ONS This section summarizes current land use, existing socioeconomic conditions, environmental justice population review (Title VI), and future development and growth for the study area. LAND OWNERSHIP The entire study area is located within the Navajo Nation Reservation. Land within the Navajo Nation is primarily communally owned and administered by the Nation's government; however, customary land users may lease land for home sites, grazing, and other uses. Organizations such as the BIA, other federal agencies, churches and other religious organizations, and businesses, may also lease land. LAND USE Integrating land use into transportation planning is essential so communities can support "smart growth" processes and promote sustainable development. Sustainable development improves mobility, supports economic growth, and ensures the financial stability of the transportation system. This approach helps maintain the quality of living for the people and the quality of the community as a whole and also reduces the need for roadway expansion. Existing land use data was compiled based on the Fort Defiance Community Land Use Plan and a comprehensive field review of the study area. Figure 3.1 illustrates existing land uses within the study area. As shown in Figure 3.1, land use types within the study area are: • Residential: Approximately 28% of the study area is designated as residential land use. Within the study area, residential land use areas typically consist of medium density single family home housing communities, while rural single family residential areas are single family homes on larger lots. The largest residential development is the Rio Puerco Estates housing community located in the southwest corner of the N12/N110 intersection. Housing communities are also located along N12 near the Window Rock High School, N7 north of the hospital, along N112 on both sides, south side of N54, and to the west of N112/N110 intersection along N110. • Agriculture: Agricultural land predominantly occupies the central portion of the study area between the Black Creek on the east and N112 on the west. Approximately 12% of the land is classified as agricultural. • Education: The Fort Defiance area has one high school, one middle school, two elementary schools, and two head start schools. Window Rock High School is located along N12 between N110 and N7. Tséhootsooí Middle School is located along N110 and adjacent to the Post Office. Tséhootsooí Elementary and Immersion Schools are located along N7 and adjacent to the Fort Defiance Indian Hospital. These schools serve the communities of Fort Defiance, Window Rock, and St Michaels. Approximately 3% of the study area is classified for educational land use. • Government: Fort Defiance is home to several federal, state, and tribal government offices, including the Post Office, Navajo Tribal Utility Authority (NTUA), Navajo Transit Service Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 11 (NTS), Apache County District II office, the Navajo Housing Authority, BIA field office, and the Fort Defiance Chapter House. Approximately 6% of the study area is classified as government land use. • Health: The Fort Defiance Indian Hospital is a state of the art hospital opened in the year 2002 and employs about 850 staff. The hospital is located in the northwest corner of the N12/N7 intersection. This hospital serves residents from Fort Defiance and surrounding communities, including Window Rock and St. Michaels. • Commercial and Industrial: Commercial and industrial services are primarily located along N12, N54, and N110. Approximately 2% of the study area is designated as commercial land use. • Public and Recreation Facilities: Approximately 3% of the land is designated as public and recreational land use. Public and recreation facilities include the new basketball facility currently under construction adjacent to the Window Rock High School, Youth Recreation Center located north of N110 adjacent to Black Creek, and the sports complex located along N110. • Grazing: Raising livestock is a primary occupation for many residents on the reservation. A large percentage of the land to the east of Black Creek and the area north of N7 and west of the Fort Defiance Indian Hospital are designated for grazing. The Navajo Nation enforces an open range policy; therefore, livestock can often be found along roadway shoulders and crossing major roads. Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 12 Figure 3.1. Existing Land Use and Potential Growth Areas Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 13 EXISTING SOCIOECONOMIC CONDITIONS A review of existing population and employment was conducted to understand the demographic characteristics of the Fort Defiance community. As identified by the US Census Bureau, Table 3.1 summarizes the population and housing unit growth trends from 2000 to 2010 for the study area, Fort Defiance Census Designated Place (CDP), Apache County, and the State of Arizona. While the Fort Defiance CDP's total number of housing units and population has dramatically decreased, population and housing units have steadily increased within the study area. This increase in the number of housing units and total population in the study area can largely be attributed to the development of hospital employee housing north of the Fort Defiance Indian Hospital. Table 3.1. Population and Housing Unit Growth Trends Population Population Geographic Area 2000 2010 Growth Fort Defiance Study Area 2,887 3,166 9.7% Fort Defiance CDP 4,061 3,624 -10.8% Apache County 69,423 71,518 3.0% State of Arizona 5,130,632 6,392,017 24.6% Housing Units 2000 2010 990 1,208 1,321 1,250 31,621 32,514 2,189,189 2,844,526 Housing Units Growth 22.0% -5.4% 2.8% 29.9% Source: 2010 US Census, 2000 US Census Figure 3.2 and Figure 3.3 illustrate the total population and occupied housing units per acre, respectively. As illustrated in the figures, areas with high population and occupied housing unit concentrations are located southwest of the N12/N110 intersection, west of the Tséhootsoí Middle School, along Bonita Drive, south of N54, north of Window Rock High School, and at the employee housing area for the Fort Defiance Indian Hospital. According to the 2010 US Census, nearly 11% of the study area's total population and occupied housing units are located at the Fort Defiance Indian Hospital. In addition, only 70% of all available housing units at the Fort Defiance Indian Hospital are occupied. While only partially located within the study area, the Rio Puerco Estates housing community in the southwest corner of the N12/N110 intersection contains approximately 733 persons and 135 occupied housing units. Employment Overview As a sovereign Nation, the Navajo Nation is responsible Major Employer Employees for the economic development, financial solvency, and Fort Defiance Indian Hospital 850 general welfare of its members. ReferenceUSA data was compiled to identify primary employment industries and Navajo Tribal Utility Authority 500 current employment levels within the study area. Based on Navajo Nation Water the ReferenceUSA database, there are approximately 146 Department 3,784 employees within the Fort Defiance study area. The Window Rock High School 80 Fort Defiance Indian Hospital is cited as the largest employer within the community with 850 employees, Tséhootsoí Middle School 70 while the NTUA has 500 employees. According to Tséhootsoí Primary Learning 56 ReferenceUSA, the largest type of employers within the area is government offices, physicians and surgeons, schools, federal government contractors, and health practitioners. Final Report 14 Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Figure 3.2. Total Population per Acre Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 15 Figure 3.3. Total Occupied Housing Units per Acre Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 16 FUTURE DEVELOPMENT AND GROWTH TRENDS Forecasting socioeconomic conditions allows us to anticipate changes in future travel demand and to envision potential solutions. Development of rational projections for population, housing units, and employment for each horizon year is vital to the process of forecasting realistic traffic volumes. Stakeholder meetings were conducted with the Fort Defiance Chapter, Navajo Housing Authority, Navajo Nation Economic Development Department, Fort Defiance Regional Business Development Office (RBDO), Window Rock Unified School District, Navajo Transit System, and Apache County District II to discuss details about planned developments and potential timeframes for development. Table 3.2 presents potential future developments within the study area, while Figure 3.1 illustrates the locations of the planned developments. Historical growth trends and future developments data was then utilized to forecast future socioeconomic conditions for each horizon year. Table 3.3 summarizes the population, housing units, and employment for each horizon year. Table 3.2. Potential Study Area Developments # Proposed Development Location Timeframe 1 Relocation of NTUA Facility NW corner of N12/N7 intersection 2013 - 2018 2 IHS Housing - 15 acre site SW corner of N12/N7 intersection 2013 - 2018 3 Complex for Fire, Police, Judicial offices, and Jail 40 acre site North of N7 and adjacent to Fort Defiance Indian Hospital 2018 - 2033 4 Elderly Center NW corner of N12/N7 intersection 2018 - 2023 5 Retail Commercial and College South of N7 2013 - 2018 6 Reopening Solar Equipment Manufacturing Facility North of N54 2013 - 2018 7 Transit Center Expansion North of N54 2013 - 2018 8 Redevelopment of Trailer Park North of N54 2018 - 2023 9 Livestock Facility Along N54 - east of the study boundary 2018 - 2023 10 Residential Development Along N54 - east of the study boundary 2018 - 2023 11 Retail Commercial Immediately North of Conoco Gas Station 2013 - 2018 12 Two Retail Commercial Establishments West of Conoco Gas Station 2013 - 2018 13 Office Complex - 60,000 SQ. FT NW corner of N112/N110 intersection 2013 - 2023 14 Medical School Old Hospital area 2013 - 2018 15 Old Downtown Redevelopment Old Hospital area 2018 - 2023 16 Black Rock Residential Redevelopment South of Fort Defiance Chapter House 2023 - 2033 17 Expansion of the New Youth Recreation Complex North of N110 2013 - 2018 18 Expansion of Housing for School Employees East of N12 and adjacent to Window Rock High School 2018 - 2023 19 Window Rock High School Sports Stadium East of N12 and adjacent to Window Rock High School 2013 - 2018 Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 17 Table 3.3 Future Population, Housing Units, and Employment Socioeconomic Variable Population 2000 2,887 2010 3,166 2013 3,250 2018 3,389 2023 3,529 2033 3,808 Housing Units 990 1,208 1,273 1,318 1,383 1,423 Employment --- --- 2,002 2,267 2,555 2,767 Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 18 4 . EXI ST ING AND F UT UR E TRA NS P ORTA TIO N CO NDI TIO NS This section inventories essential elements of the existing transportation system and documents the status/condition of each element. Major elements inventoried include roadway characteristics, traffic conditions, crash history, future traffic conditions, and other modes of transportation in the study area. EXISTING ROADWAY CHARACTERISTICS The study area consists of five major roadways: • N7: East-west regional roadway connecting Fort Defiance and Chinle • N12: Major north-south regional roadway linking Interstate 40 near the border of Arizona/New Mexico, Window Rock, Fort Defiance, Canyon De Chelly and ultimately merging with US 191 • N54: Regional connector between Fort Defiance and SR 264 in New Mexico • N110: Local east-west roadway that provides access to community facilities and regional corridors • N112: Major north-south corridor linking Fort Defiance to St. Michaels Functional Classification Functional Classification is the grouping of streets and highways by the character of service they intend to provide. Defining a street’s functional classification, serves as a basis for establishing speed limits, design standards, and access controls. BIA and the Navajo Nation owned and maintained roadways have specific guidelines for the functional classification of roadways. Within the study area, all roadways are classified by the BIA as Rural Minor Arterial (class 2) roadways with the exception of a small portion of N112 north of N7 which is classified as a Rural Major Collector (class 4). Table 4.1 lists the BIA functional classification types and definitions. Table 4.1. BIA Functional Classification Definition Class Description 1 Major arterial roads providing an integrated network with characteristics for serving traffic between large population centers, generally without stub connections and having average daily traffic volumes of 10,000 vehicles per day or more with more than two lanes of traffic. 2 Rural minor arterial roads providing an integrated network having the characteristics for serving traffic between large population centers, generally without stub connections. May also link smaller towns and communities to major resort areas that attract travel over long distances and generally provide for relatively high overall travel speeds with minimum interference to through traffic movement. Generally provide for at least inter-county or inter-state service and are spaced at intervals consistent with population density. This class of road will have less than 10,000 vehicles per day. 3 Streets located within communities serving residential areas. 4 Rural major collector road is collector to rural local roads. Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 19 Table 4.1. BIA Functional Classification Definition (Continued) Class Description 5 Rural local road that is either a section line and/or stub type roads, make connections within the grid of the TTP system. This class of road may serve areas around villages, into farming areas, to schools, tourist attractions, or various small enterprises. Also included are roads and motorized trails for administration of forests, grazing, mining, oil, recreation, or other use purposes. 6 City minor arterial streets that are located within communities, and serve as access to major arterials. 7 City collector streets that are located within communities and serve as collectors to the city local streets. 8 This class encompasses all non-road projects such as paths, trails, walkways, or other designated types of routes for public use by foot traffic, bicycles, trail bikes, snowmobiles, all terrain vehicles, or other uses to provide for the general access of non-vehicular traffic. 9 This classification encompasses other transportation facilities such as public parking facilities adjacent to TTP routes and scenic byways, rest areas, and other scenic pullouts, ferry boat terminals, and transit terminals. 10 This classification encompasses airstrips that are within the boundaries of the TTP system grid and are open to the public. These airstrips are included for inventory and maintenance purposes only. 11 This classification indicates an overlapping or previously inventoried section or sections of a route and is used to indicate that it is not to be used for accumulating needs data. This class is used for reporting and identification purposes only. Source: Bureau of Indian Affairs Number of Lanes and Right-of-Way Based on NTTFI data and observations made during the field review, Figure 4.1 illustrates the number of lanes for major roadways in the study area. The major corridors of N12 (between N110 and N7) and N110 (between N12 and N112) consist of four lanes with a center turn lane, while all other major roadways are two lanes. According to the NTTFI data, right-of-way (ROW) widths along the study corridors range between 100 to 200 feet. Roadway Surface The NTTFI inventory categorizes the study corridors as one of the following surface types: • Bituminous material less than 2" thick (including chip seal over asphalt penetration). • Bituminous material 2" thick or more. All study roadways are paved; however, several segments have poor pavement condition according to the NTTFI. The following segments have poor pavement conditions: • N112: N110 to north end of the study boundary • N7: Black Creek bridge to the west end of the study boundary • N110: N12 to N112 Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 20 Posted Speed Limits Speed limits on study roadways range between 15 to 35 MPH. School zones along N7, N12, and N110 have a designated speed limit of 15MPH to enhance safety at school locations. Figure 4.1 illustrates the posted speed limits and locations of school zones within the study area. Several stakeholders cited that the actual travel speeds are much higher than the posted speed limits and that some form of enforcement is required to improve safety. Traffic and speed counts were conducted in May 2013 as part of this study process. The traffic count data obtained validates the stakeholders' claims that actual travel speeds are much higher than the posted speed limits. Figure 4.2 illustrates the posted speed limits versus the actual travel speeds. Traffic Control The usage of traffic control devices is the primary method of ensuring orderly traffic flow at intersections and along roadway networks. Figure 4.3 illustrates installed traffic control devices within the study area as well as regulatory, warning, and informational signs. As shown in the figure, traffic signals are located at the intersections of N12/N110, N12/N54, and N12/N7. Pedestrian crossing signs are located at the intersections of N12/N110, N12/N54, and N112/N110 as well as along N110 near Bonita Drive. Shoulder Conditions Roadside shoulders are an important safety feature that may also be utilized for future bicycle lanes, new sidewalks, or extended sidewalks/buffers. According to the Arizona Statewide Bicycle Pedestrian Plan, bike lanes should be four feet in width to safely accommodate bicyclists. Based on the NTTFI data, areas with less than four feet of shoulders include: • N7 (Black Creek Bridge to N112 Intersection): 3 FT paved shoulders • N12 (N110 Intersection to Window Rock High School): 2 FT paved shoulders • N110 (N112 Intersection to Subdivision): 2 FT curbed shoulders • N110 (Old Red Lake Road to Bonito Drive): No shoulders The NTTFI also inventories shoulder conditions. Based on the latest NTTFI, several locations within the study area have shoulders that are in critical condition and need to be reconstructed for the safety of users and the protection of traffic lanes. Areas with shoulders in critical conditions include: • N7 (Tséhootsooí Elementary School to N112 intersection) • N110 (Old Red Lake Road to Bonito Drive) • N112 (North of N7) Based on the comprehensive field review, study team members also noted that shoulder striping had faded and was not clearly visible. Fencing and Cattle Guards Fencing and cattle guards are used as roadway safety devices to prevent livestock from crossing roadways. Due to the Nation's open grazing policies, the addition of fencing and cattle guards may Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 21 prevent vehicular crashes with livestock. Figure 4.4 illustrates the location of cattle guards and fencing conditions as observed by study team members during the field review. Drainage For each roadway segment, the NTTFI describes the condition of drainage structure, ditches, dikes, etc. According to the NTTFI, road segments with severe drainage problems include: • N110 - Sections 150, 160, 165, 170, and 180 • N110 - Sections 10, 30, 40, and 50 • N112 - Sections 35, 50, 60, 63, 66, and 70 Roadway Deficiency Information The NTTFI collects information on a number of roadway deficiency categories, including passing sight distances, number of deficient curves, and stopping restrictions. Passing Sight Conditions This category represents the percent (by length) of the roadway segment that meets the passing sight distance requirements set by the BIA. Within the study area, all roadway segments were characterized as having 90-100% of the section meeting or exceeding requirements. Number of Deficient Curves The number of deficient curves category represents the number of curves within a given roadway segment with a degree of curvature sharper than the allowable design standards set forth by the BIA. According to the NTTFI, N112 north of N7 is the only road segment to have deficient curves. Within the N112 section 70 segment, there are two separate curves the do not meet the allowed degree of curvature set forth by the BIA roadway design standards. Number of Stopping Restrictions For each roadway segment, the number of stopping restrictions represents the number of instances where stopping sight distances are less than the minimums defined by the BIA roadway design standards. Within the study area, the following road segments were identified in the NTTFI as having less than the minimum stopping distance: • • N110 - Section 110: five stopping restrictions N112 - Section 70: two stopping restrictions Bridge Conditions The NTTFI includes bridge condition information based on structure inventory and appraisal. Bridge N665, located on N12 south of the N12/N110 intersection, is classified in the NTTFI as being eligible for replacement. According to the National Bridge Inventory, this bridge has a sufficiency rating of 70.8 and is deemed structurally deficient. The NTTFI lists all other bridges within the study area as being in excellent condition with no construction needed. Pedestrian access, however, is not currently available on the N7 bridge located east of N7/N112 intersection and the bridge located on N12 located south of the N12/N110 intersection. These bridges restrict pedestrian mobility and cause pedestrians to enter the travel lanes to cross the bridge. Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 22 Figure 4.1. Number of Lanes and Posted Speed Limits Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 23 Figure 4.2. Speed Limits Versus Actual Travel Speeds Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 24 Figure 4.3. Traffic Control Devices and Signage Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 25 Figure 4.4. Fencing and Cattle Guard Conditions Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 26 EXISTING TRAFFIC CONDITIONS Traffic and turning movement counts were conducted in May 2013 as part of the study process. Daily traffic counts were collected at 12 locations along the study roadways as well as turn movement counts for the AM/PM peak two-hour periods for the critical intersections. The traffic counts also provided vehicle classification distribution and average travel speeds at each location. This data was compared against Navajo DOT's traffic counts for validation purposes. In most locations, travel patterns gathered in the traffic count data matched with that of Navajo DOT traffic volumes. Figure 4.5 displays the existing daily traffic volumes. Key observations noted in the Figure include: • N12, between the intersection at N110 and the eastern study boundary, has the highest amount of traffic, with approximately 13,000 vehicles daily. • N12, between the intersections of N12/N110 and N12/N7, ranges between 7,500 and 11,500 vehicles daily. Major activity centers such as the NTUA, Window Rock High School, Fort Defiance Indian Hospital, and the elementary schools are accessed by using N12. • N110, between the intersections of N12/N110 and N110/N112, ranges between 5,700 and 8.500 vehicles daily. This corridor provides access to activity centers such as the Post Office, middle school, youth center, residential developments, and other small businesses. Level of Service Traffic congestion levels of study roadways were estimated using traffic count data. The degree of traffic congestion is commonly expressed in terms of Level of Service (LOS). LOS is a measurement of traffic congestion conditions defined by the Transportation Research Board’s (TRB) Highway Capacity Manual (HCM). For a planning level analysis, the roadway LOS is determined based on the ratio of traffic volume on the road to capacity of the road. Capacity of the road is a function of the number of lanes, functional classification, speed, and roadway geometrics and provides thresholds for the maximum number of cars allowed to travel on a lane for the peak or daily conditions. Each level of service is given a letter grade based on its level of congestion, ranging from “A” through “F”, with LOS A representing free flowing traffic conditions where vehicles experience minimal delays and LOS F representing failing conditions where vehicles experience long delays. Figure 4.6 is an illustration of the LOS types. Road segment LOS is characterized by the HCM as follows: • LOS A: Best, free flow operations (on uninterrupted flow facilities) and very low delay (on interrupted flow facilities). Freedom to select desired speeds and to maneuver within traffic is extremely high. • LOS B: Flow is stable, but presence of other users is noticeable. Freedom to select desired speeds is relatively unaffected, but there is a slight decline in the freedom to maneuver within traffic. Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 27 Figure 4.5. Existing Average Daily Traffic Volumes Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 28 • LOS C: Flow is stable, but the operation of users is becoming affected by the presence of other users. Maneuvering within traffic requires substantial vigilance on the part of the user. • LOS D: High density but stable flow. Speed and freedom to maneuver are severely restricted. The driver is experiencing a generally poor level of comfort and convenience. • LOS E: Flow is at or near capacity. All speeds are reduced to a low, but relatively uniform value. Freedom to maneuver within traffic is extremely difficult. Comfort and convenience levels are extremely poor. • LOS F: Worse, facility has failed, or a breakdown has occurred. FIGURE 4.6 Level of Service In general for rural areas, LOS A and B represent no congestion, LOS C and D represent moderate congestion, and LOS E and F represent severe congestion. Current Roadway Level of Service Figure 4.7 displays the existing LOS for the study roadways. Currently, all study roadways operate at LOS A and B, except for the following: LOS C: • • N 54: N12 to the eastern study boundary N7: N12 to the elementary school Current Intersection Level of Service Utilizing the turning movement count data, LOS conditions were estimated for major intersections within the study area. Figure 4.8 displays the current lane configuration and traffic control type at each intersection and Figure 4.9 displays the turn movement volumes. Figure 4.10 displays the overall intersection LOS, and the LOS at each turn movement for each leg/approach for each intersection. Table 4.2 summarizes the intersection LOS analysis. Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 29 Figure 4.7. Existing Level of Service Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 30 Figure 4.8. Existing Intersection Lane Configuration Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 31 Figure 4.9. Existing Intersection Turning Movement Volumes Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 32 Figure 4.10. Existing Intersection Level of Service Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 33 Table 4.2. Existing Intersection Level of Service Summary Intersection N112/N7 N12/N7 N12/NTUA Entrance N12/N54 N12/N110 Black Canyon Drive/ N110 N112/N110 Level of Service AM • Southbound approach is LOS C • All other approaches operate at LOS B or better PM • All approaches operate at LOS B or better AM • All approaches operate at LOS B or better PM • All approaches operate at LOS B or better AM • Eastbound approach is LOS C • Westbound approach is LOS C • All other approaches operate at LOS B or better PM • Westbound approach is LOS C • All approaches operate at LOS B or better AM • All approaches operate at LOS B or better PM • All approaches operate at LOS B or better AM • All approaches operate at LOS B or better PM • All approaches operate at LOS B or better AM • All approaches operate at LOS B or better PM • All approaches operate at LOS B or better AM • Southbound approach is LOS D • All other approaches operate at LOS B or better PM • Southbound approach is LOS C • All other approaches operate at LOS B or better CRASH DATA ANALYSIS Crash analysis was conducted for the study corridors to identify trends, patterns, predominant crash reasons, and high crash rate intersections and corridors. The purpose of the crash analysis was to discover safety hazard locations that need to be addressed to improve area safety. Motor vehicle crash data was obtained from Navajo DOT for crashes occurring between January 1999 and December 2012. During this 13 year period a total of 222 incidents occurred along the study roadways, of which 27% or 60 total crashes occurred during the last five years (2008 - 2012). As illustrated in Figure 4.11, the total number of crashes along the study corridors steadily increased between 2008 and 2011. In 2012, however, the total number of crashes sharply declined. Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 34 Figure 4.11. Crash Trends from January 2008 to December 2012 Number of Crashes 18 16 17 14 14 12 10 8 9 10 10 6 4 2 0 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 Source: Navajo Department Of Transportation, January 2008 - December 2012 Figure 4.12 illustrates the locations of crashes within the study area, as well as crashes that resulted in injuries or fatalities, and Figure 4.13 presents the overall crash density as well as the location of major crash causes. Based on review of the each crash characteristic and location, the following trends were identified for crashes recorded between January 2008 and December 2012. Crash Location by Road: Identifying crash locations and the type of crashes for each corridor aids in identifying deficiencies and developing improvement scenarios to improve safety. Table 4.3 provides a summary of the number of crashes, crash rates, and the number of injury crashes along the study corridors and at key intersections. As shown in the table, nearly 25% of all crashes occurred at the intersections of N112/N110 and N12/N110. The study corridors of N110, from the N12 Intersection to the Tséhootsooí Middle School, and N112, between the Southern Study Boundary to Old Crystal Road, had the highest total number of crashes with 12 and 11 total crashes, respectively. Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 35 Table 4.3. Crash Locations, Severity, and Crash Rate (2008 - 2012) Crash Rate Number of Injury Crashes (Percent) Number of Fatalities - 0.61 3 (38%) 0 1.70% - 0.18 0 0 7 11.70% - 0.23 1 (14%) 0 N12/N54 6 10.00% - 0.25 3 (50%) 0 N12/N7 4 6.70% - 0.22 2 (50%) 0 N12 Intersection to Tséhootsooí Elementary School 4 6.70% 0.41 1.07 2(50%) 0 Tséhootsooí Elementary School to N112 Intersection 2 3.30% 1.14 0.42 0 1 N112 Intersection to Western Study Boundary 2 3.30% 0.61 2.05 1 (50%) 0 Southern Study Boundary to N110 Intersection 7 11.70% 0.18 1.63 0 0 N110 Intersection to N54 Intersection 6 10.00% 0.16 1.79 2 (33%) 0 N54 Intersection to Window Rock High School 9 15.00% 1.12 0.39 5 (55%) 0 Window Rock High School to N7 Intersection 3 5.00% 0.47 0.46 0 1 Eastern Study Boundary to N12 Intersection 0 - 0.66 0.00 0 0 Southern Study Boundary to Old Crystal Road 11 18.30% 0.81 2.37 4 (36%) 1 Old Crystal Road to N7 Intersection 1 1.70% 0.62 0.33 0 0 N7 Intersection to Northern Study Boundary 0 - 0.5 0.00 0 0 N12 Intersection to Tséhootsooí Middle School 12 20.00% 0.54 1.42 5 (42%) 0 Tséhootsooí Middle School to N112 Intersection 2 3.30% 0.34 0.56 0 0 N112 Intersection to Western Study Boundary 1 1.70% 1.17 0.23 1 (100%) 0 Number of Crashes Percent of All Crashes Road Length (Miles) N112/N110 8 13.30% N112/N7 1 N12/N10 Location Intersections N110 N112 N54 N12 N7 Corridors Source: Navajo Department Of Transportation, January 2008 - December 2012 Intersection Crash Rates are expressed as crashes per million vehicles entering the intersection Segment Crash Rates are expressed as crashed per million vehicle miles traveled Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 36 Figure 4.12. Crash Location and Crash Severity Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 37 Figure 4.13. Crash Density and Major Cause of Crash Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 38 Crash Rates: Crash rates were estimated along the study corridors and key intersections. Crash rates for the roadway segments are expressed in terms of crashes per million vehicle miles traveled and crash rates for intersections are expressed in terms of crashes per million vehicles entering the intersection. Crash rate is a function of the number of vehicles utilizing a roadway or entering an intersection; therefore, a higher total number of crashes does not always result in a higher crash rate. The crash rate for the N112/N110 Intersection is more than double that of any other intersection in the study area. N112, between the southern study boundary and Old Crystal Road, experiences the highest crash rate in the study area. Injury Severity: 20 of 60 crashes, or 33% of all crashes, resulted in an injury along study roadways. Of all crashes at intersections, 30% resulted in an injury. Additionally, since 2008 a total of three fatal crashes occurred within the study area. Figure 4.12 provides an illustration of the location of crashes that resulted in a fatality. Pedestrians were involved in two of the three fatal crashes. Under the influence of alcohol was cited as the primary cause in each of these fatal crashes. Road and Weather Conditions: The majority of the crashes were cited as occurring during a clear day with dry roadway conditions. 13% of all crashes were cited as occurring on snow, slush, or ice covered roadways. Winter weather conditions may be a significant factor in the high number of crashes occurring during the winter months, as shown in Figure 4.14 approximately 38% of all crashes took place between December and February. Figure 4.14. Crash Trends by Month (January 2008 to December 2012) 10 Number of Crashes 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0 Jan Feb Mar Apr May June July Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec Source: Navajo Department Of Transportation, January 2008 - December 2012 Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 39 Crash Causes: The leading causes for crashes in the study area were cited as "failure to yield ROW" (23%), "driver inattention" (20%), and "animal on road" (10%). Speeding was cited as the cause for approximately 6% of all crashes within the study area. N12, between the southern study boundary to the N110 intersection, had the highest total number of crashes that resulted from speeding. Pedestrian and bicyclists: In total, there were two pedestrian involved crashes (3% of all crashes) within the study area; both of which resulted in a fatality. Figure 4.13 illustrates the locations of these pedestrian involved crashes. As shown in the Figure, one pedestrian related crash occurred near the Window Rock High School on N12 and one along N7. No bicyclist involved crashes were recorded. Intersection Relation: Over 63% of all crashes that occurred within the study area were identified as intersection related, while an additional 17% of all crashes were cited as being related to access points to developments. Figure 4.15 illustrates the location of crashes by their relationship with intersection and business access points. As shown in the figure, outside of the major intersections, the N110 corridor between the N12 and N112 has the highest number of intersection and development strip access related crashes. This high concentration of intersection and development strip access related crashes along N110 indicated the need for safety and access management enhancements along the corridor. Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 40 Figure 4.15. Crash Location by Intersection Relation Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 41 FUTURE TRAFFIC CONDITIONS The primary purpose of forecasting traffic volumes was to estimate the additional travel demand added to existing roadways and to forecast congestion levels due to projected growth in population and employment. In addition, this analysis provided valuable insight into potential transportation solutions. Future traffic forecasts were estimated using a two step process. • Step 1: NTTFI recommended 2% linear growth rate per year was applied to existing traffic volumes to forecast preliminary traffic volumes for Years 2018, 2023, and 2033. • Step 2: Additional traffic generated by planned future developments, shown in Figure 3.3, was estimated utilizing Institute of Transportation Engineers (ITE) Trip Generation Manual methods. Traffic volumes estimated in Step 1 were then adjusted to account for this additional traffic. Working Paper 1 presented future traffic conditions if no roadway improvements are made (NoBuild). Projected No-Build traffic conditions serve a baseline to determine if roadway improvements alleviate congestion. The section below presents projected traffic conditions if the following improvements are made: • N112/N7 Intersection is restriped to include turn lanes on N112 and N7; • N112/N110 Intersection is upgraded to a signalized intersection and turn lanes are added on N112; and Turn lanes are added from the NTUA onto N12. • Projected 2018 Traffic Conditions Projected 2018 Roadway Level of Service Figure 4.16 displays the projected 2018 daily traffic volumes and Figure 4.17 illustrates the LOS for the roadway network with projected 2018 traffic volumes. Traffic volumes and LOS results in this section represent average annual daily traffic conditions. All study roadways operate at a LOS A and B, except for the following: LOS C: • N7: N12 to west of the Tséhootsooí Elementary School • N 54: N12 to the eastern study boundary Projected 2018 Intersection Level of Service Based on the projected 2018 daily traffic volumes, intersection turn movement volumes were estimated using NCHRP Report 255 methods. Intersection improvements such as additional turn lanes and traffic signals were identified to accommodate 2018 traffic conditions. Figure 4.18 displays the enhanced 2018 lane configuration; Figure 4.19 displays the projected 2018 turn movement volumes; and Figure 4.20 displays the overall intersection LOS, and the LOS at each turn movement for each leg/approach for each intersection. Table 4.4 summarizes the intersection LOS analysis. Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 42 Table 4.4. 2018 Intersection Level of Service Summary Intersection N112/N7 N12/N7 N12/NTUA Entrance Level of Service AM • Southbound approach is LOS C • All other approaches operate at LOS B or better • Southbound and Northbound left turn movement is LOS C • All other turn movements operate at LOS B or better PM • All approaches operate at LOS B or better • Southbound and Northbound left turn movement is LOS C • All other turn movements operate at LOS B or better AM • All approaches and turn movements operate at LOS B or better PM • All approaches and turn movements operate at LOS B or better AM • Eastbound approach is LOS D • All other approaches operate at LOS B or better • Eastbound thru and left turn movements are LOS D • All other turn movements operate at LOS B or better PM • Eastbound approach is LOS C • All other approaches operate at LOS B or better • Eastbound thru and left turn movements are LOS C • All other turn movements operate at LOS B or better AM • All approaches operate at LOS B or better • All turn movements operate at LOS B or better PM • All approaches operate at LOS B or better • All turn movements operate at LOS B or better N12/N54 N12/N110 AM • Eastbound approach is LOS C • All other approaches operate at LOS B or better • Eastbound left turn movement is LOS C • All other turn movements operate at LOS B or better PM • All approaches operate at LOS B or better • All turn movements operate at LOS B or better Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 43 Table 4.4. 2018 Intersection Level of Service Summary (Continued) Intersection Black Canyon Drive/ N110 N112/N110 Level of Service AM • Southbound approach is LOS C • Northbound approach is LOS C • Southbound turn movements are LOS C • Northbound turn movements are LOSC PM • Southbound approach is LOS C • All other approaches are LOS B or better • Southbound turn movements are LOS C • All other turn movements are LOS B or better AM • All approaches operate at LOS A • All turn movements operate at LOS A PM • All approaches operate at LOS A • All turn movements operate at LOS A Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 44 Figure 4.16. 2018 Projected Average Daily Traffic Volumes Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 45 Figure 4.17. 2018 Level of Service Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 46 Figure 4.18. 2018 Intersection Lane Configuration Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 47 Figure 4.19. 2018 Intersection Turning Movement Volumes Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 48 Figure 4.20. 2018 Intersection Level of Service Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 49 Projected 2023 Traffic Conditions Projected 2023 Roadway Level of Service Figure 4.21 displays the projected 2023 daily traffic volumes and Figure 4.22 illustrates the LOS for the roadway network with projected 2023 traffic volumes. Traffic volumes and LOS results in this section represent average annual daily traffic conditions. All study roadways operate at a LOS A and B, except for the following: LOS C: • N7: N12 to west of the Tséhootsooí Elementary School • N 54: N12 to the eastern study boundary • N12: Southern study boundary to N110 • N110: N112 to Old Red Lake Road • N112: N110 to Old Crystal Road Projected 2023 Intersection Level of Service Based on the projected 2023 daily traffic volumes, intersection turn movement volumes were estimated using NCHRP Report 255 methods. Intersection improvements such as additional turn lanes and traffic signals were identified to accommodate 2023 traffic conditions. Figure 4.23 illustrates the 2023 lane configuration; Figure 4.24 displays the projected 2023 turn movement volumes; and Figure 4.25 displays the overall intersection LOS, and the LOS at each turn movement for each leg/approach for each intersection. Table 4.5 summarizes the intersection LOS analysis. Projected 2033 Traffic Conditions Projected 2033 Roadway Level of Service Figure 4.26 displays the projected 2033 daily traffic volumes and Figure 4.27 illustrates the LOS for the roadway network with projected 2033 traffic volumes. Traffic volumes and LOS results in this section represent average annual daily traffic conditions. All study roadways operate at a LOS A and B, except for the following: LOS C: • N7: N12 to west of the Tséhootsooí Elementary School • N 54: N12 to the eastern study boundary • N12: Southern study boundary to N110 • N110: N112 to Old Red Lake Road • N112: N110 to Old Crystal Road Projected 2033 Intersection Level of Service Based on the projected 2033 daily traffic volumes, intersection turn movement volumes were estimated using NCHRP Report 255 methods. Intersection improvements such as additional turn lanes and traffic signals were identified to accommodate 2033 traffic conditions. Figure 4.28 illustrates the 2033 lane configuration; Figure 4.29 displays the projected 2033 turn movement Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 50 volumes; and Figure 4.30 displays the overall intersection LOS, and the LOS at each turn movement for each leg/approach for each intersection. Table 4.6 summarizes the intersection LOS analysis. Table 4.5. 2023 Intersection Level of Service Summary Intersection N112/N7 N12/N7 N12/NTUA Entrance N12/N54 N12/N110 Level of Service AM • Southbound approach is LOS D • All other approaches operate at LOS B or better • Southbound left turn movement is LOS B • All other turn movements operate at LOS B or better PM • Southbound approach is LOS C • All other approaches operate at LOS B or better • All southbound turn movements are LOS C • Northbound left turn movement is LOS C • Northbound thru movement is LOS C • All other turn movements are LOS A AM • All approaches operate at LOS B or better • All turn movements operate at LOS B or better PM • All approaches operate at LOS B or better • All turn movements operate at LOS B or better AM • Eastbound approach is LOS D • All other approaches are LOS B or better • Eastbound thru and left turn movements are LOS D • All other turn movements are LOS B or better PM • Eastbound approach is LOS C • All other approaches operate at LOS B or better • Eastbound thru and left turn movements are LOS C • All other turn movements are LOS B or better AM • All approaches operate at LOS B or better • All turn movements operate at LOS B or better PM • All approaches operate at LOS B or better • All turn movements operate at LOS B or better AM • Southbound approach is LOS C • All other approaches are LOS B or better • Southbound left turn movement is LOS C • Eastbound left turn movement is LOS C • All other turn movements are LOS B or better PM • All approaches operate at LOS B or better • All turn movements operate at LOS B or better Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 51 Table 4.5. 2023 Intersection Level of Service Summary (Continued) Intersection Black Canyon Drive/ N110 N112/N110 Level of Service AM • Northbound approach is LOS C • Southbound approach is LOS C • All Southbound turn movements are LOS C • All Northbound turn movements are LOS C PM • Southbound approach is LOS C • All other approaches operate at LOS B or better • All Southbound turn movements are LOS C • All other turn movements are LOS B or better AM • All approaches operate at LOS B or better • All turn movements operate at LOS B or better PM • All approaches operate at LOS B or better • All turn movements operate at LOS B or better Table 4.6. 2033 Intersection Level of Service Summary Intersection N112/N7 N12/N7 N12/NTUA Entrance Level of Service AM • Southbound approach is LOS C • All other approaches are LOS B or better • Southbound left turn movement is LOS F • Northbound left turn movement is LOS C • All other turn movements are LOS B or better PM • Southbound approach is LOS C • Northbound approach is LOS C • Southbound left turn movement is LOS D • Southbound thru and left turn movements are LOS C • Northbound left turn movement is LOS D • Northbound thru movement is LOS C • All other turn movements are LOS B or better AM • Eastbound approach is LOS C • All other approaches are LOS B or better • Eastbound right turn movement is LOS C • Southbound thru movement is LOS C • All other turn movements are LOS B or better PM • All approaches operate at LOS B or better • All turn movements operate at LOS B or better AM • Eastbound approach is LOS E • Westbound approach is LOS E • Eastbound thru and left turn movements are LOS E • Eastbound right turn movement is LOS C • Westbound right turn movement is LOS C • Westbound thru and left turn movements are LOS E Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 52 Table 4.6. 2033 Intersection Level of Service Summary (Continued) Intersection N12/NTUA Entrance N12/N54 N12/N110 Black Canyon Drive/ N110 N112/N110 Level of Service PM • Westbound approach is LOS C • All other approaches are LOS B or better • Westbound right turn movement is LOS C • Westbound thru and left turn movement is LOS C • Eastbound thru and left turn movement is LOS C • All other turn movements are LOS B or better AM • Westbound approach is LOS C • Northbound approach is LOS C • All other approaches are LOS B or better • Westbound right turn movement is LOS C • Westbound left turn movement is LOS D • Northbound thru movement is LOS C • Northbound thru and left turn movements are LOS C • Southbound left turn movement is LOS C • All other turn movements are LOS B or better PM • All approaches operate at LOS B or better • All turn movements operate at LOS B or better AM • Eastbound approach is LOS C • Southbound approach is LOS C • All other approaches are LOS B or better • Eastbound left turn movement is LOS C • Eastbound right turn movement is LOS C • Southbound left turn movement is LOS C • Westbound thru movement is LOS C • All other turn movements are LOS B or better PM • All approaches operate at LOS B or better • All turn movements operate at LOS B or better AM • Northbound approach is LOS C • Southbound approach is LOS C • All Southbound turn movements are LOS C • All Northbound turn movements are LOS C PM • Southbound approach is LOS C • All other approaches are LOS B or better • All Southbound turn movements are LOS C • All other turn movements operate at LOS B or better AM • All approaches operate at LOS B or better • All turn movements operate at LOS B or better PM • All approaches operate at LOS B or better • All turn movements operate at LOS B or better Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 53 Figure 4.21. 2023 Projected Average Daily Traffic Volumes Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 54 Figure 4.22. 2023 Level of Service Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 55 Figure 4.23. 2023 Intersection Lane Configuration Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 56 Figure 4.24. 2023 Intersection Turning Movement Volumes Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 57 Figure 4.25. 2023 Intersection Level of Service Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 58 Figure 4.26. 2033 Projected Average Daily Traffic Volumes Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 59 Figure 4.27. 2033 Level of Service Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 60 Figure 4.28. 2033 Intersection Lane Configuration Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 61 Figure 4.29. 2033 Intersection Turning Movement Volumes Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 62 Figure 4.30. 2033 Intersection Level of Service Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 63 OTHER MODES OF TRANSPORTATION Existing Pedestrian and Bicycle Facilities Alternative modes of transportation are an important aspect of the multimodal transportation network as they provide mobility for those not able to operate without access to a vehicle. Figure 4.31 illustrates the existing sidewalks and pedestrian facilities in Fort Defiance. During the field review, pedestrian and bicycle use of the roadways was frequently witnessed. Sidewalks are currently present along portions of N12, N54, and N110; however, during the field review many pedestrians were observed using the roadway shoulder in places where sidewalks do not exist. A pedestrian overpass is available near Tséhootsooí Middle School to allow pedestrians to safely cross N110. The overpass is typically used by students attending the school and sports center. Currently there are no bicycle lanes within the study area, and pedestrian trails are created by frequent traffic in locations where sidewalks do not exist. In general crosswalks are poorly striped and too wide to cross in a safe manner, and most sidewalks are in poor condition. Existing Transit Facilities Navajo Transit Services (NTS) currently provides transit services within, to, and from the Fort Defiance study area. NTS provides fixed-route transit services to 41 Navajo Chapters. The NTS Transit Center, located along N54, serves as a central hub for the Nation's bus fleet. Additionally, the NTS Transit Center houses areas for administration, office and clerical, vehicle repair, storage and fueling. The following routes are provided by the NTS: • Route 1: Tuba City to Fort Defiance and return • Route 2: Steamboat to Window Rock and return • Route 3: Kayenta to Fort Defiance and return • Route 4: Crownpoint, NM to Fort Defiance and return • Route 5: Gallup, NM to Fort Defiance and return • Route 6: Crystal, NM to Gallup, NM and return • Route 7: Shiprock, NM to Fort Defiance and return • Route 9: Dikon to Fort Defiance and return • Route 13: Fort Defiance to Crownpoint, NM and Gallup, NM and return • Route 14: Shiprock, NM to Fort Defiance and return • Route 15: Sanders to Window Rock and Gallup, NM and return Table 4.7 provides an overview of the existing NTS transit routes that service the study area, as well as the approximate departure time from study area bus stop locations. Figure 4.32 provides an overview of transit stop locations within the study area that service existing NTS routes. Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 64 Figure 4.31. Existing Pedestrian Facilities Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 65 Figure 4.32. Existing Transit Facilities Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 66 Table 4.7. NTS Transit Routes Route Rt 1 - Tuba City Rt 2 - Steamboat From/To Tuba City/Fort Defiance Fort Defiance/Tuba City Steamboat/Fort Defiance Fort Defiance/Steamboat Kayenta/Fort Defiance Rt 3 - Kayenta Fort Defiance/Kayenta Crownpoint/Fort Defiance Rt 4 - Crownpoint Fort Defiance/Crownpoint Fort Defiance/Gallup Rt 5 - Gallup Gallup/Fort Defiance Crystal/Fort Defiance Rt 6 - Crystal Fort Defiance/Crystal Location NTS Shop NTS Shop NTS Shop NTS Shop Tsehootsooi Medical Center 7-2-11 Store NTS Shop NTS Shop 7-2-11 Store Tsehootsooi Medical Center 7-2-11 Store NTUA Water Development Facilities Maintenance Tsehootsooi Medical Center NTS Shop NTS Shop 7-2-11 Store Tsehootsooi Medical Center NTUA Water Development Facilities Maintenance NTS Shop New PHS Conoco Road Stop (Old Firehouse) Old PHS Workforce/Fieldhouse Road Stop (Old Firehouse) Old PHS H/S Fieldhouse/Workforce Conoco New PHS NTS Shop I.H.S. Conoco Post Office Fieldhouse NTS Shop NTS Shop Conoco Conoco Post Office Fieldhouse I.H.S. Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Time 10:00 AM 2:50 PM 8:12 AM 4:50 PM 9:20 AM 9:25 AM 10:00 AM 2:45 PM 3:25 PM 3:30 PM 7:50 AM 7:55 AM 7:58 AM 8:00 PM 8:05 PM 8:15 PM 4:55 PM 4:50 PM 5:00 PM 5:05 PM 5:08 PM 5:10 PM 5:30 AM 5:35 AM 7:48 AM 7:50 AM 7:55 AM 8:00 AM 2nd 3rd 9:15 AM 12:25 PM 9:25 AM 12:30 PM 9:35 AM 12:35 PM 12:45 PM 9:40 AM 12:48 PM 9:50 AM 12:53 PM 3:18 PM 3:20 PM 3:25 PM 3:30 PM 8:05 AM 12:14 PM 7:15 AM 7:20 AM 7:25 AM 7:30 AM 9:15 AM 3:00 PM 3:05 PM 5:35 PM 5:40 PM 5:43 PM 5:50 PM 3:35 PM 4th 5:00 PM 5:05 PM 5:08 PM 5:12 PM 5:30 PM 7:48 PM 7:50 PM 7:55 PM Final Report 67 Table 4.7. NTS Transit Routes (Continued) Route Rt 7 - Newcomb/Ft. Defiance Rt 9 - Dilkon Rt 13 Crownpoint/Gallup Rt 14 - Shiprock/Ft. Defiance Rt 15 Sanders/Window From/To Location 7-2-11 Store Newcomb/Fort Defiance NTS Shop NTS Shop Fort Defiance/Newcomb 7-2-11 Store NTS Shop Dilkon/Fort Defiance NTS Shop Fort Defiance/Dilkon NTS Shop Fort Defiance/Crownpoint-Gallup 7-2-11 Store NTS Shop NTS Shop Crownpoint-Gallup/Fort Defiance 7-2-11 Store NTS Shop PHS Hospital Shiprock/Fort Defiance NTS Shop NTS Shop NHA Fort Defiance/Shiprock PHS Hospital NTS Shop Sanders/Fort Defiance NTS Shop Fort Defiance/Sanders Time 10:03 AM 10:05 AM 2:05 PM 2:10 PM 8:12 AM 4:40 PM 6:00 AM 6:05 AM 10:20 AM 2:45 PM 6:48 PM 6:50 PM 7:50 AM 8:00 AM 4:50 PM 4:55 PM 5:05 PM 9:30 AM 4:50 PM 2nd 3rd 4th Source: Navajo Transit System TRANSPORTATION ISSUES, DEFICIENCIES, AND NEEDS SUMMARY Based on the inventory and analysis of existing conditions, transportation system deficiencies and issues were identified. These issues and deficiencies formed the basis for the development of the transportation improvement plan. Figure 4.33 is a summary of the major roadway issues in the study area and Figure 4.34 is a summary of issues for the transit, pedestrian, and bicycle modes. Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 68 Figure 4.33. Roadway Issues and Needs Summary Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 69 Figure 4.34. Pedestrian, Bicycle, and Transit Summary of Issues and Needs Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 70 5 . EVA LU ATIO N O F IMPR OVE MENT S This chapter presents the initial improvement concepts and the criteria used for evaluating recommendations for the Fort Defiance study area. Initial concepts were developed based on deficiencies and needs identified in the existing conditions analysis; future land use, socioeconomic, and traffic conditions; and the goals and objectives established by the study team and the TAC at the onset of the study. EVALUATION CRITERIA Transportation system deficiency analysis and input from the public, stakeholders, and the TAC resulted in a comprehensive list of existing and future transportation issues and needs for the Fort Defiance community. Table 5.1 summarizes the criteria utilized used in evaluating potential transportation improvement options. Table 5.1 Evaluation Criteria Evaluation Criteria Deficiencies and Needs Safety and Security Economic Development Opportunity Transportation Choices Congestion/Level of Service Mobility and Access Environmental Impacts Infrastructure Preservation/Maintenance Cost Efficiency and Implementation Feasibility Objectives Mitigate existing deficiencies Support future needs Reduce vehicle, pedestrian, and bicycle collisions Improve access for emergency services Promote economic growth Compatible with existing and planned development Support transit, pedestrian, and bicycle modes Reduce congestion, bottlenecks and travel times for all modes Support future traffic demand Improve linkages between vehicular, transit, pedestrian, and bicycle modes Facilitate efficient regional mobility Maintain travel reliability Protect and enhance natural, historical, and cultural environment by minimizing potential adverse impacts • Preserve and maintain existing transportation infrastructure • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Minimize capital cost of improvements, including preservation of right-of- way (ROW) • Reduce ROW impacts • Implementable and Flexible Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 71 ROADWAY IMPROVEMENT OPTIONS Based on the traffic analysis, summarized in Chapter 4, no roadway capacity improvements need to be made to accommodate future traffic demand. In order to enhance safety and to conform to BIA standards, the following safety and roadway improvements were evaluated: • Street cross-section enhancements; • Street lighting; and • Traffic calming measures at school zones and entryways to the study area. The following section presents a summary of the different safety enhancements evaluated to identify the most effective improvements for the Fort Defiance study area. Street Cross-Sections Roadway cross-sections provide the framework for designing and improving community roadways. A road's cross-section is based on several factors, including: existing and future traffic volumes, type of traffic that utilizes the facility; functional classification; level of pedestrian, bicycle, and transit activity; surrounding land use; right-of-way (ROW) availability; and proposed development surrounding the corridor. To accommodate multiple transportation modes, many communities are utilizing "Complete Street" initiatives to develop cross-sections to enhance the safety along roadways. According to the National Complete Streets Coalition, typical elements that make up a complete street include sidewalks, bicycle lanes (or paved shoulders), shared-use paths, designated bus lanes, safe and accessible transit stops, and safe pedestrian crossings. Based on input from the TAC, stakeholders, and the public; cross-section concepts were developed for the study roadways that incorporate complete street elements while maintaining the rural, historical character of the community. Table 5.2 summarizes cross-sections evaluated for the Fort Defiance study area roadways. Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 72 Table 5.2. Cross-Section Options Option 1: Rural Arterial - Commercial Corridor Applicable Roadways: • N110: N12 to N112 Roadway Context: • Experiences high traffic volumes • Restricted ROW Conditions • N12: Southern study boundary to N54 • Serves regional and local traffic • Located in fully developed area Number of Lanes & Median: • Two 12 FT lanes in both directions • 10 - 12 FT two-way center turn lane Right-of-Way Width: 80 - 94 FT Street Elements: • 3 - 5 FT landscape buffer on both sides of road • Street lighting • Bus bays where applicable • Pedestrian crosswalks at appropriate intervals Pedestrian/ Bike Facilities: 8 - 12 FT concrete shared use path in both directions Option 2: Rural Arterial - Partially Developed Corridor Applicable Roadways: • N12: N54 to N7 Roadway Context: • Experiences high traffic volumes • Additional ROW available Number of Lanes & Median: • Two 12 FT lanes in both directions • Serves regional and local traffic • Located in partially developed area • 10 - 12 FT two-way center turn lane Right-of-Way Width: 85 - 97 FT Street Elements: • Landscape buffer on both sides of road • Ditch for drainage • Street lighting • Bus bays where applicable • Pedestrian crosswalks at appropriate intervals Pedestrian/ Bike Facilities: 8-12 FT asphalt/concrete shared use path in both directions Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 73 Table 5.2. Cross-Section Options (Continued) Option 3: Rural Collector - Partially Developed Corridor Applicable Roadways: • N112: Southern study boundary to • N7: N12 to Tséhootsooí Elementary School Old Crystal Rd • N54: N12 to Eastern study boundary Roadway Context: • Experiences medium to high traffic • Serves regional and local traffic volume Number of Lanes & Median: • One 12 FT lane in both directions • Located in partially developed area • 10 - 12 FT two-way center turn lane Right-of-Way Width: 56 - 70 FT • Bus bays where applicable • Pedestrian crosswalks at appropriate intervals Street Elements: • 3 - 5 FT landscape buffer on both sides of road • Street lighting Pedestrian/ Bike Facilities: 8 - 12 FT asphalt shared use path in both directions Option 4: Rural Collector - Rural Area Corridor Applicable Roadways: • N112: Old Crystal Rd to Northern study boundary • N7: Tséhootsooí Elementary School to Western study boundary Roadway Context: • Experiences low/med traffic volumes • Located in rural area and serves local traffic Number of Lanes & Median: • One 12 FT lane in both directions • No center turn lane/median Right-of-Way Width: 46 - 58 FT Street Elements: • 3 - 5 FT landscape buffer on both sides • Bus bays where applicable • Street lighting Pedestrian/ Bike Facilities: 8-12 FT asphalt shared use path in both directions Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 74 Table 5.2. Cross-Section Options (Continued) Option 5: Rural Collector - Old Town / Main Street Corridor Applicable Roadways: • N110: N112 to Western study boundary Roadway Context: • Experiences low to medium traffic volumes • Located in Old town / Downtown / Main Street area • Serves local traffic Number of Lanes & Median: • One 12 FT lane in both directions • Optional 10 - 12 FT two-way center turn lane Right-of-Way Width: 54 - 68 FT Street Elements: • 3 - 5 FT landscape buffer on both sides of road • Street lighting • Bus bays where applicable • Pedestrian crosswalks at appropriate intervals Pedestrian/Bike Facilities: 8-12 FT concrete sidewalk in both directions Lighting Street and pedestrian lighting is intended to create a safe, nighttime environment by increasing visibility between pedestrians, motorists, and their surroundings. For motor vehicles, installing street lighting improves driver's visibility and in turn can reduce the risk of traffic accidents and the severity of crashes. Good outdoor lighting can also create and encourage a pedestrian friendly environment by providing extended hours of light to utilize pedestrian facilities. Aesthetically, street light poles and fixtures can also create a defining visual characteristic to enhance a community's character. If not properly designed and installed, however, light pollution caused by street and pedestrian lighting can increase glare for drivers and reduce sky visibility. Fort Defiance's dark skies are more than an aesthetic value; it is part of the rural experience that preserves the rural and cultural character of the community. Founded in 1988, the International Dark-Sky Association (IDA) offers guidelines for regulating lighting that "minimizes the degradation of the nighttime visual environment and night sky, as well as minimizes glare caused by excessive or unnecessary outdoor lighting” while still providing outdoor lighting for nighttime safety, security, and enjoyment. Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 75 Communities are increasingly adopting "dark sky friendly" lighting regulations requiring the use of “full cut-off” lighting for commercial and roadway lighting. Dark sky lighting guidelines serve as the foundation for preserving naturally dark sky conditions of the Fort Defiance study area and for mitigating to the extent possible the effects of the development's outdoor artificial lighting on the natural and cultural environment. The easiest way “Full cut-off" lighting, at the far rightmost, allows no upward light emission and reduces glare. to accommodate guidelines provided by the IDA is too install “full cut-off” lighting fixtures, which prevent light from escaping above the horizon line of the light fixture. Full cut-off fixtures do not allow upward light emission and illuminates no more than 10% of its light at a high angle, which in turn reduces glare for motorists, energy consumption, and sky glow. Table 5.3 provides examples of different lighting improvement options. Table 5.3. Lighting Options Potential Lighting Structure Standard Metal Street Light Advantages/Disadvantages • Standard energy use • High maintenance costs • Not dark skies friendly Solar Powered Fixture • Solar powered • Reduces maintenance costs • Dark skies friendly LED Fixture • • • • Lighting Example LED lighting Long lasting Moderate maintenance costs Dark skies friendly Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 76 Traffic Calming Measures As identified in Working Paper 1, travel speeds through the study area are generally much greater than actual posted speed limits. Traffic calming measures are often utilized to improve safety by encouraging motorists to reduce traveling speeds. Traffic calming is a self-enforcing traffic management approach that forces motorists to alter their speed or direction of travel. Research has found that installing traffic calming devices not only reduces automobile speeds but also the number and severity of crashes. Traffic calming devices can range from options that require no physical roadway modifications to major roadway alterations, such as roadway closures. Table 5.4 provides a summary of potential roadway enhancements that can be utilized in the Fort Defiance study area to reduce traveling speeds. Table 5.4. Traffic Calming Options Traffic Calming Device Description Advantages Considerations In-Road/On-Road Rumble Strips Grooves or raised markers placed • Low installation costs • Noise and vibration in/on the roadway surface that created by the rumble • Do not require any transmits sound and vibration to strips may affect the additional ROW alert drivers to changing conditions. adjacent residences • Can interfere with snow plow operations Speed Limit Pavement Markings Highly visible in-pavement • Inexpensive markings, which are also visible at installation costs night, alerting drivers of speed limit. • Can be quickly installed Speed Hump Raised pavement section which requires motorists to drive at a reduced speed over an undulation • Speed reduction • Relatively inexpensive installation costs • Easily wears off and requires regular maintenance • Not visible on snow covered roads • Increased roadway • • • • Speed Table Longer raised speed hump with a • Speed reduction flat section in the middle and ramps • Relatively on the ends. Sometimes inexpensive constructed with brick or other installation costs textured materials on the flat section • Increased roadway • • • • Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study noise Increased maintenance costs Requires highly visible warning signage May slow emergency vehicle response times Can interfere with snow plow operations noise Increased maintenance costs Requires highly visible warning signage May slow emergency vehicle response times Can interfere with snow plow operations Final Report 77 Table 5.4. Traffic Calming Options (Continued) Traffic Calming Device Description Advantages Considerations Traffic Islands and Medians Concrete or landscaped islands • Provides a mid-block typically located down the center of pedestrian refuge a roadway or at a roadway • Can improve the entrance. aesthetics of a roadway • May restrict access to Double Chicane Series of alternating curb • Easily negotiable by extensions or islands that narrow large vehicles the roadway and require vehicles to • Can improve the follow an S-shaped path. aesthetics of a Appropriate for midblock locations. roadway • Curb realignment and Roundabout or Traffic Circle Roundabouts require traffic to • Roundabout can • May require additional circulate counterclockwise around a moderate traffic ROW to construct center island at an intersection. speeds on arterial • Emergency vehicles Traffic circles are small islands roadways and large trucks may placed in intersections, in which • Less expensive than have difficulty vehicles must slow down in order to operating a traffic navigating navigate the circle. signal • Provides landscaping opportunities HAWK Pedestrian Beacon Pushbutton-activated, signalized, mid-block pedestrian crossing signal. The pedestrian hybrid beacon is used to warn and control traffic to assist pedestrians in crossing a street at a marked crosswalk. Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study • Provides a ‘red’ condition which requires vehicles to stop for pedestrians • Improves visibility of crossing and pedestrians driveways in one direction landscaping can be costly • Concrete chicanes complicate street maintenance and drainage • May require additional ROW to construct • High installation and maintenance costs Final Report 78 INTERSECTION IMPROVEMENT OPTIONS To address the existing deficiencies, future needs, and to enhance safety and mobility, preliminary improvement concepts were developed for the N12/N110 and N112/N110 intersections. The following section presents a summary of these preliminary improvement concepts. N12/N110 Intersection - Option 1: Signalized Intersection As illustrated in the figure on the right, in Concept 1: • Traffic signal heads are upgraded to improve visibility • Raised medians are reconstructed • Crosswalks are incorporated on all legs of the intersection • Signal equipment is upgraded to include walk push buttons • Signage and pavement markings are improved • Pedestrian and bicycle facilities are located throughout • Reconstructs ramps to meet ADA compliance Advantages • Low cost of implementation • No additional ROW required • No additional learning curve for drivers Disadvantages • High maintenance costs • Additional turn lanes may be required to accommodate future traffic volume increase • May not reduce speeding, which is currently one of the issues Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 79 N12/N110 Intersection - Option 2: Roundabout As illustrated in the figure on the right, in Concept 2: • Intersection is converted to a twolane roundabout • Raised medians at the roundabout provide pedestrian crossing access • Pedestrian and bicycle facilities are located throughout • Incorporates ADA compliant ramps and street lighting Advantages • Potential reduction in injury and fatal type crashes • Forces drivers to slow down as they approach the intersection • Lesser delays and backups at the intersection • Improves aesthetic appearance of the area Disadvantages • Will require additional ROW • Close proximity of N12/N54 intersection could cause queuing issues at this intersection, especially during peak periods • Two-lane roundabout could be confusing for drivers, especially tourists • High implementation costs Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 80 N112/N110 Intersection - Option 1: Signalized Intersection As illustrated in the figure on the right, in Option 1: • Intersection is converted to a fourway, signalized intersection • Exclusive left-turn lanes installed on N112 • Raised median installed on N110 east of intersection • Pedestrian and bicycle facilities are located throughout • Incorporates ADA compliant ramps and street lighting Advantages • Improves circulation • Provides motorists turning left off of N112 and exclusive turn lane, reducing queuing • Less confusing to motorists, especially tourists, traveling through the intersection. • Lower implementation costs • No additional ROW is required Disadvantages • High maintenance costs • May not reduce speeding, which is currently one of the issues Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 81 N112/N110 Intersection - Option 2: Roundabout As illustrated in the figure on the right, in Concept 2: • Intersection is converted to a onelane roundabout • Raised medians at the roundabout provide pedestrian crossing access • Pedestrian and bicycle facilities are located throughout • Incorporates ADA compliant ramps and street lighting Advantages • Improves circulation • Opportunities for new sidewalks, bike lanes, and landscaping • Improves safety for turning movements • Potential reduction in injury and fatal type crashes • Forces drivers to slow down as they approach the intersection • Lesser delays and backups at the intersection • Improves aesthetic appearance of the area Disadvantages • May be confusing to motorists, especially tourists • May need to acquire additional ROW • High implementation costs Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 82 OTHER MODES OF TRANSPORTATION OPTIONS Pedestrian and Bicycle Facilities Options Alternative modes of transportation such as sidewalks, bike paths/routes, and trails (including equestrian) are an important aspect of the multimodal transportation network as they provide mobility for those not able to operate or without access to a vehicle and also for recreational purpose. At the onset of the study, Community members, stakeholders, and the TAC all expressed interest in enhancing existing pedestrian facilities to allow pedestrians to safely walk between residential areas and activity centers. Developing a community-wide pedestrian and bicycle network can lead to many benefits, including: • Lowering traffic congestion by reducing dependence on automobiles; • Enhancing residents quality of life through promoting healthier lifestyles; • Expanding tourism opportunities and enhancing local economy; • Providing mobility for those without a vehicle or are unable to drive; and • Improving community aesthetics while preserving the natural environment. Table 5.5 provides an overview of potential pedestrian and bicycle facilities that could enhance Fort Defiance's existing pedestrian network. Table 5.5. Pedestrian Facility Options Pedestrian Facility Considerations • Can be utilized by multiple Asphalt shared-use-path modes, including bicyclists, inoffset from roadway line skaters, wheelchair users, etc. • Minimizes potential crossing conflicts with motor vehicles • Provides opportunity to enhance streetscaping Bike Lane striped on roadway; Sidewalk offset from roadway Illustration • Pedestrians have safe buffer zone between motor vehicles • Pavement striping maintenance is critical so bicyclists and motorist are able to identify lane Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 83 Table 5.5. Pedestrian Facility Options (Continued) Pedestrian Facility Considerations Separate sidewalk and bike lane offset from roadway • Offset sidewalk provides a safe buffer zone between motor vehicles • Separated bike lanes provides bicyclists with a buffer zone from motor vehicles • Increased installation and maintenance costs Sidewalk Only – offset from roadway (when ROW is restricted) • Pedestrians have safe buffer zone between motor vehicles • Provides opportunity to enhance streetscaping Illustration Transit Facility Options Successful transit systems open economic opportunities for local residents and businesses, enable residents without access to a transportation mode, link neighboring destinations, and generally enhance the quality of life of residents and the economic vitality of rural communities. Transit systems are comprised of the transit routes as well as the facilities that service the transit route and riders. Since the overall design of a transit stop affects operations and system efficiency, it is imperative that the design of a transit facility balance safe and convenient access with functionality. Factors to consider when identifying the location of a transit stop include operational issues, such as potential conflicts with motor vehicles; passenger accessibility; safety conditions; and ridership potential. The Navajo Transit System (NTS) currently provides transit services within, to, and from the Fort Defiance study area. At present, the NTS provides services from ten separate locations; however, the transit stops lack proper amenities. Table 5.6 provides an overview of potential transit facilities that could enhance Fort Defiance's existing transit network. Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 84 Table 5.6. Transit Facility Options Pedestrian Facility Considerations Curb-side bus stop • Minimum requirements of a bus stop are a sign and a clear, firm, and stable slip-resistant surface for boarding and alighting • Limited or no driveways should be located near the stop • Needs adequate curb space for the bus to pull out Bus pullout • Reduces disruption of traffic along the roadway and increases passenger safety • More expensive and are often more difficult to locate than curb-side bus stops Bus shelters • Provides a safe area of protection for passengers • Must meet ADA requirements • Shelters that only include a roof, no walls, provide little protection from the wind but are easier to maintain • Metal structures anchored to foundations can be relocated as needed (image on right) Benches • Provides a comfortable resting area for waiting passengers • Must meet ADA requirements • Provides opportunity to generate income through advertising Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Illustration Final Report 85 Table 5.6. Transit Facility Options (Continued) Pedestrian Facility Considerations Signage • Provides passengers with important operation information, such as route schedules • Should not obstruct other street signs Lighting • Improves the safety for drivers, pedestrians, bicyclists, and transit passengers • Solar powered lighting can be installed to reduce costs • One lighting fixture should be incorporated on both sides of a bus stop Safe pedestrian paths • Allow transit riders to walk safely to the transit stop • Sidewalks should be ADAaccessible Illustration PRIORITIZATION OF IMPROVEMENT OPTIONS The study roadway system was divided into roadway segments and potential multimodal transportation improvement options were identified for each segment. Potential improvements were evaluated and prioritized to determine the projects/improvements that best serve the needs of the Fort Defiance study area, Navajo Nation, and Apache County District II. Working Paper 2 provides a detailed overview of the criteria utilized to quantify the benefits of each improvement option. Based on the results of the evaluation, projects were prioritized into short-, mid-, and long-term implementation phases. Planning level cost estimates were also developed based on typical permile/foot construction costs in 2013. Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 86 6 . S TAK EHO LDER A ND P UB LIC INP UT Public involvement and stakeholder outreach is essential to the broad acceptance and successful implementation of any transportation improvement plan. The goal of community outreach is to educate stakeholders and the public about the study, provide opportunities for input, and to create a process to build consensus in support of the study recommendations. For this study, Phase I of the outreach focused on current transportation issues, problem areas, and needs; and Phase II focused on recommended improvements for the problem areas identified in the first phase. This chapter presents stakeholder and public outreach efforts conducted during both phases. PHASE I - STAKEHOLDER OUTREACH To develop a thorough understanding of the issues, deficiencies, and needs, the study team identified and interviewed a core group of stakeholders. The stakeholders included representatives from all major Navajo Nation departments, Fort Defiance Chapter, Apache County District II, BIA, Fort Defiance Agency, Navajo DOT, and NACOG. The first set of stakeholder interviews were conducted on May 23, 2013. A questionnaire was distributed to each stakeholder at the meeting and was followed up with an open discussion. Phase 1 Stakeholder Outreach Summary Report is included in Appendix A. Key comments received during the meetings included: • Lacking of lighting along roadways is a major concern for community members. • Traffic in the month of August is more than the typical yearly average. • Vegetation along roadways needs to be removed. • There are two bridges along the study roadways. Both bridges are eligible for replacement. The bridge on N7 does not include a walkway for pedestrians which is potentially unsafe. • The (N12) RSA that was completed recommends roundabouts or traffic signals at all critical intersections. • Coordinate with NTUA about roadway and utility issues. • Pedestrian and bicycle facilities are needed throughout the study roads. N12, N110 should be a priority. • Exclusive turning lanes are needed for the NTUA driveway intersection and other major cross streets. • Emergency pullouts are needed especially on two lane roads. • Striping is completely faded and needs to be addressed. Because of limited funding, BIA is focused on unpaved roads and unable to perform regular maintenance on existing paved roads including striping the roads. • Speeding is a major concern on all roads. Enforcement has to be considered. • Sidewalks and lighting are needed at school zones. Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 87 • N12/N54 intersection is congested in peak hours and around noon time. • Drainage issues exist at N12/N110 intersection. • Pedestrian crossing is needed along N110 in the vicinity of the Youth Center. • N110/N112 intersection needs to be signalized. Very unsafe. • Signage needs to be replaced because of reflectivity concerns. Guard rails should also be made reflective. • N7 west of N7/N112 is in really bad condition and is difficult to drive during winter conditions. • Pedestrian crossings are needed at school zones, IHS, and NTUA intersections. • Lighting needs to be added at intersections - N12/N110, N7/N112, N12/N7, N112/N110. • Special events generate significantly high traffic volumes - Graduation, Annual Fair. • Bus shelters are needed at bus stops. • NTUA has plans to relocate to a new facility to be built in the vicinity of the IHS hospital. The new building is expected to be completed by 2015. The existing NTUA campus will still be used at lower staffing levels. • Street naming should be addressed. • NTUA will provide a GIS data of utilities. • NTUA Driveway/N12 intersection is congested in mornings and evenings. Especially when utility bills are due. Intersection also has sight distance issues. • Need pedestrian crossing on N12 between N110 and N54. • Elderly homes facility is planned at the northwest corner of N7/N12. • No shoulder on N110 results in vehicles stopping on the road during emergencies. • Speed limits need to be reviewed and enforced. • At N12/N110 intersection, accessing the Conoco gas station is an issue by traffic coming from Window Rock. • Several proposed new commercial, industrial, and residential developments within the study area were identified. PHASE I – PUBLIC OUTREACH Public involvement is the process of involving the public throughout the transportation planning process through meaningful communication with interested citizens. To ensure that transportation decisions reflect the public's best interests, public involvement is a critical component of the transportation planning process. To engage the public, the study work plan includes two public Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 88 meetings to inform, discuss, and to seek input. Also, a project website was developed and hosted by ADOT to enable citizens to access study documents and submit comments or questions. The Navajo Nation Fort Defiance Chapter, Apache County District II, ADOT, and the study team hosted the first of two public meetings on August 7, 2013 at the Fort Defiance Chapter House. The goal of the meeting was to inform the public of the project's goals and objectives, discuss the deficiencies and needs of the study area, and elicit input on the public's "vision" for the future of Fort Defiance. In total, there were 12 participants at the meeting, not including study team members. The meeting commenced with a brief presentation of the study goals and objectives, summary of existing conditions, and key issues identified by the study team. Large boards were also displayed to further communicate information and to generate conversation between the public and study team members. The board displays included: study overview, map of current transportation issues as identified by the study team, and a map of study area in which community members can mark areas in need of multimodal improvements. Comment forms were also provided to each meeting attendee. Phase 1 Public Outreach Summary Report is included in Appendix B. Key comments received during the meeting included: • Due to major growth in the area, enhancements need to be made to the existing roadway network to accommodate future traffic congestion. • Concerns on how the new sports facility will impact traffic flow. • The addition of turning lanes and traffic signals at major activity centers, such as the Fort Defiance Indian Hospital and NTUA, needs to be evaluated. • Walking is a major mode of transportation and proper facilities need to be developed to accommodate pedestrians. • The specific goals of this study should focus on creating a safe environment for all travel modes and livestock, maintenance of existing roadway system, and improving pedestrian facilities. Major transportation issues that the community currently faces include: • o High travel speeds, livestock and domestic animals on roadways, lack of street lighting, and poor pavement striping creates unsafe driving conditions; o Community lacks safe pedestrian walkways, crosswalks, and proper bus stops; o Traffic lights and traffic signs need to be improved and replaced if damaged; and o Roadside vegetation need to be cleared to allow water to properly drain, visibility is improved, and to discourage livestock from grazing next to the roadway. • Desired improvements on study roadways include: o Maintenance of existing roadway system, including: surface treatment, pavement reconstruction, and pavement restriping; o Install traffic calming measures or enforce traffic laws, particularly in school zones and along major routes; Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 89 o Incorporate street lighting to improve nighttime visibility; o Provide pedestrian and bicycle access to schools, the hospital, the Post Office, and the NTUA; and o Install safe pedestrian pathways, crosswalks, and wellness trails to increase mobility and to promote exercise. • Develop a public and traffic safety community awareness and education program that promotes safety in school zones and along study roadways may help to reduce high traffic speeds and foster a safer community. PHASE II – STAKEHOLDER OUTREACH The Navajo Nation Fort Defiance Chapter, Apache County District II, ADOT, and the study team hosted a second round of five meetings for stakeholders to learn about the study goals, issues and concerns, obtain input on improvements scenarios and to discuss the long-term "vision" of the Fort Defiance study area. The meetings were held on October 16, 2013 at the Apache County District II office. A questionnaire was also provided to each stakeholder. Phase 2 Stakeholder Outreach Summary Report is included in Appendix C. Key comments received during the meetings included: • • • • • • • • • Majority of the attendees preferred a roundabout at the N112/N110 intersection instead of a traffic signal. Attendees felt that the single lane roundabout would enhance the aesthetic appeal and blend well with the Chapter's idea of redeveloping the N110 roadway to a more tourist friendly corridor. Improvements to the current traffic signal at N12/N110 were preferred over the roundabout option. Improvements included upgrading signal equipment, restriping, reconstruction of channel islands and raised medians, adding sidewalks and crosswalks. "Dark Skies" friendly LED lighting was preferred over solar lighting. At school zones, a Double Chicane with a High-intensity Activated crossWalK (HAWK) pedestrian beacon or HAWK system was preferred to mitigate speeding issues. Low cost options such as rumble strips, speed tables, and on-street pavement markings, were recommended for the short-term. These options are hard to maintain because of winter weather conditions. Proposed fencing and cattle guard improvements were endorsed. However, the stakeholders cautioned that the Study Team should coordinate with the Navajo Department of Agriculture to address grazing concerns. Removal of roadside vegetation, restriping of roads, pavement maintenance were also strongly supported. Proposed bicycle and pedestrian improvements were strongly endorsed. Stakeholders particularly liked the idea of separated multiuse/shared pedestrian and bicycle paths. The street cross-section options for each study route were received very well. The Navajo Transit System is exploring the option of adding a bus stop at the Window Rock High School based on multiple requests. Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 90 • • • • • An internal transit circulator route is not needed at this time. Bus stops with shelters and possibly pull outs would be preferred. The Navajo Transit System purchased the equipment to install shelters and is planning to install them in the short term. School District representative agreed with the proposed traffic calming measures. A secondary access to the new Window Rock High School Sports Stadium facility may be addressed as part of this study. Proposed trail locations were supported. PHASE II – PUBLIC OUTREACH The second public meeting was hosted on January 8, 2014 at the Fort Defiance Chapter House. The goal of the meeting was to inform the public of the draft transportation improvement plan and seek input. In total, there were 36 participants at the meeting, not including study team members. The meeting commenced with a brief presentation of the study goals and objectives and key elements of the draft transportation improvement plan. Large boards were also displayed to further communicate information and to generate conversation between the public and study team members. Comment forms were also provided to each meeting attendee. Phase 2 Public Outreach Summary Report is included in Appendix D. Key comments received during the meeting included: • A bus top needs to be located near the N7/N112 intersection due to it being congested at times. This would be for school buses only and for the safety of students. This should be part of the first phase. Also, near the old hospital and N7, people walk in that area and improvements are needed there. • There needs to be a walking trail between N112 and N12 along the creek. A lot of students walk to Window Rock High School. • The study needs to adequately address needs from a business perspective, in particular accesses to businesses in the Fort Defiance area. • The study should consider photo enforcement as another method for addressing speeding in the Fort Defiance area. • The Navajo Forestry Department wants to ensure that environmental issues are adequately addressed in the study final report. • Apache County Supervisor White asked how the funding task would be covered. Response: There will be a plan for implementation section in the final report that identifies funding resources and that projects can be cross referenced with potential sources that the Chapter and County can pursue for implementation of the recommended priority projects. Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 91 7 . AF FEC TE D E NVIR ONMENT A ND E NVIR ONME NT AL CO NC ERNS Inventory of the physical, natural, and cultural environment is an important component of the transportation planning process. When environmental conditions and concerns are reviewed in the early stages of the transportation planning process, transportation solutions can be developed to avoid or lessen the negative impacts on the natural environment. This chapter presents a review of environmental conditions within the study area. TOPOGRAPHY AND GEOLOGY Located in a valley west of the Chuska Mountain and east of the Defiance Plateau, the Fort Defiance study area sits at the elevation of approximately 6,800 feet. The study area is comprised of geological types that include Chinle Formation (TrC) and Shinarump Conglomerate Member (TrCS). According to the Arizona Geological Survey (AZGS), TrC consists of colorful mudstone, such as in the Painted Desert, and less abundant lenses of sandstone conglomerate, deposited by large river systems. This unit typically is eroded into badlands topography and contains clays that are prone to shrink and swell. TrCS is a basal conglomerate and pebbly sandstone of Chinle Formation which is relatively more resistant to erosion. Recommendations for Further Analysis A geotechnical evaluation of soils will need to be conducted during the design phase of project implementation to determine pavement, slope protection, and structural needs. An analysis of drainage needs will also need to be performed during the Design Concept Report/Environmental Assessment (DCR/EA) phase. VEGETATION The Fort Defiance study area contains Great Basin Desert Scrub, Great Basin Conifer Woodland, and Plains and Great Basin Grassland vegetation communities. Great Basin Desert Scrub is dominated by the presence of sagebrush, blackbrush, shadescale and grasses. Great Basin Conifer Woodland vegetation is mainly comprised of medium sized conifers, the pinyon pine and juniper. Plains and Great Basin Grasslands are primarily composed of mixed or short-grass communities. No formal inventory of native plants was conducted; however, native plants may occur within the study area. Native plants include the Navajo Mountain phlox, Navajo sedge, a variety of cacti, and numerous tree species. The Navajo Natural Heritage Program (NNHP) maintains a comprehensive database of rare and protected plants on the Navajo Nation. According to the NNHP, there are 63 sensitive plant species within the Navajo Nation, of which 19 are classified as endangered. Recommendations for Further Analysis Any improvements to study area roadways have the potential to affect native plants. During the design phase, a detailed review will need to be conducted by the NNHP to identify impacts on protected plant species. Consideration during the design phase should be given to protecting native vegetation. Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 92 BIOLOGY The Arizona Game and Fish Department (AGFD) Heritage Data Management System (HDMS) was accessed to determine special state species and threatened, endangered, and candidate species in the vicinity of the study area. Utilizing the HDMS online retrieval system for approximately 3.0 miles around the study area, no species were identified as special, threatened, or endangered. This preliminary review was conducted to identify potential impacts to biological resources. For the Navajo Nation, the NNHP collects, manages, and disseminates rare, threatened, and endangered species information for land-use planning to promote conservation. Wildlife movement through the study area depends on the availability of preferred habitat, foraging range, migration, and dispersal patterns. Often, resident wildlife species find that altered habitat and developed areas present a barrier to movement. The Arizona Wildlife Linkages Workgroup (AWLW), a collaborative effort between ADOT and eight public and nonprofit organizations identified large blocks of protected habitat, potential wildlife movement corridors, and factors that may disrupt these linkage zones. The AWLW developed the Arizona Wildlife Linkages Assessment, which identified wildlife habitat blocks and linkage zones that allow land managers and transportation planners to integrate wildlife needs into developments and land use plans. Wildlife linkage zones are areas of wildlife movement between habitat blocks. The northern portion of the Fort Defiance study area falls within the Chuska Mountains – New Mexico linkage zone, an AWLWdesignated, non-high priority wildlife linkage zone. Wildlife linkage zones are areas of wildlife movement between wildlife habitat blocks. Wildlife habitat blocks are defined as large, contiguous areas of natural woodland with little or no human disturbance and are essential for maintaining a diverse and healthy population of wildlife. The study area falls completely within an AWLW designated wildlife habitat block. Figure 7.1 illustrates the location of wildlife linkage zones in the study area. Recommendations for Further Analysis Any improvements in the study area may have the potential to affect plants and wildlife within the study area. During the design and environmental overview phase of project implementation, a detailed biological analysis will need to be conducted to determine the specific presence/absence of projected species and potential mitigation measures by the NNHP. Wildlife corridors are identified based on currently available data; additional corridors or linkages may exist. During the design process, coordination will need to occur with the AZGFD, the USFWS, and the Arizona Wildlife Linkages Workgroup to incorporate elements to protect wildlife from roadway traffic and to allow for the safe wildlife movement across the study area. On-going communication is also recommended between the Fort Defiance Chapter, Navajo Nation, AGFD, USFWS, and Apache County District II to coordinate mitigation measures to protect all environmentally sensitive species in the area during the construction phase. Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 93 HYDROLOGY The major hydrological features within Fort Defiance include Black Creek, which runs north-south through the study area, and Bonito Creek, which runs along the southwestern portion of the study area. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) is authorized by Congress to provide flood protection, environmental stewardship, and civil works construction on the Navajo Nation. Although flooding often occurs on the Navajo Nation, no federally sponsored flood control projects using the authority granted to the Corps have been constructed. Within the study area, the Fort Defiance Chapter Land Use Plan identified floodplains along Black Creek and Hickman Wash. According to the Plan, significant flooding may occur along Hickman Wash due to the runoff from the Chuska Mountains. The United States Fish & Wildlife's National Wetlands Inventory indicates that freshwater forested/shrub wetlands may border Bonito Creek and Black Creek within the study area. Along portions of both Bonito Creek and Black Creek, freshwater forested/shrub wetlands are located within the study area. Wetlands are defined by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as lands where saturation with water is the dominant factor determining the nature of soil development and the types of plant and animal communities living in the soil and on its surface. Wetlands typically are areas where water covers the soil or is present at/near the surface of the soil year-round or during varying periods throughout the year. Freshwater forested/shrub wetlands are dominated by relatively small wooded vegetation and are one of the most common wetlands in the United States. Wells The Fort Defiance Chapter Land Use Plan identified three wells within the study area. The wells are located along Bonito Creek and Old Sawmill Road. Figure 7.1 illustrates the location of hydrologic features and floodplains in the study area. Recommendations for Further Analysis Floodplains along Black Creek and Hickman Wash may impact transportation movements to and around study roadways. Impacts to floodplains from roadway construction need to be considered to reduce or eliminate induced increases to flood event water surface elevations. A drainage analysis will also need to be conducted during the design phase to determine the degree of impacts on the area's hydrological features and floodplains and to identify potential mitigation measures. During the design process, coordination will need to occur with the USFWS and EPA to identify and to incorporate elements that protect wetlands in and around the study area. Furthermore, landscaping considerations should be given to incorporate low water use desert or desert adaptable planting that is consistent with EPA guidelines. Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 94 Figure 7.1. Wildlife Corridors and Hydrological Features Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 95 PRIME AND UNIQUE FARMLANDS The Fort Defiance study area is located in the Natural Resources Conservation Service's (NRCS) Soil Survey Geographic (SSURGO) Database soil survey area AZ 715. According to the NRCS survey, the study area contains no soils that support prime or unique farmlands or farmlands of statewide or local importance. Recommendations for Further Analysis Coordination between the Fort Defiance Chapter, the Navajo Nation, Apache County District II, USDA, and the USFS is needed to identify areas of potential or prime unique farmlands. If soil types in the area are considered prime or unique as identified on the USDA prime and unique farmlands soils list, analysis needs to be conducted to determine whether water delivery irrigation systems associated with the farmlands are adversely affected by the recommended improvements. NOISE IMPACTS Maintaining acceptable noise levels to preserve the character of open spaces, residential quiet zones, and recreational facilities should be considered when selecting a potential transportation improvement project. Schools, hospitals, residential development, and community uses requiring low noise levels are included in the list of potential noise-sensitive receptors. There are numerous existing noise-sensitive receptors within the study area, including schools, the Fort Defiance Indian Hospital, community centers, and residential and housing communities. Potential future noise-sensitive receptors include IHS housing, new residential development, existing housing redevelopment, and the potential new elderly center northwest of the N12/N7 intersection. Other than the major paved roadways, potential noise generators within the study area include the NTUA facility and the Transit Center. Future noise impacts may occur as a result of industrial and commercial development and the relocation of the NTUA. Recommendations for Further Analysis A detailed noise analysis study would need to be conducted to identify if potential noise levels exceed FHWA noise thresholds. During the DCR/EA phase of the project, noise-sensitive receivers should be modeled using the FHWA's approved Traffic Noise Model version 2.5 (TNM2.5) and validated against field measurements. Traffic noise impacts may occur as a result of future development; therefore, noise abatement measures should be assessed for all affected noisesensitive receivers. Coordination will need to occur between the Fort Defiance Chapter, Navajo Nation, and Apache County District II to ensure that development complies with ordinances and noise policies. AIR QUALITY Based on data provided by the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ), air quality in the study area meets the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) set forth by the Clean Air Act (CAA) for criteria pollutants carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), ozone, Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 96 particulate matter less than or equal to 2.5 microns or 10 microns (PM2.5 and PM10, respectively), and sulfur dioxide (SO2). Recommendations for Further Analysis Initially, a qualitative evaluation should be conducted to assess air quality impacts. Measures should be taken to ensure that improvements made do not negatively impact the air quality of the region. During the project implementation phase, proposed improvements along roadway corridors will require a detailed evaluation to identify the impacts with respect to the increase and decrease in criteria pollutants and mobile source air toxins. Coordination will need to occur between ADEQ, Fort Defiance Chapter, the Navajo Nation, and Apache County District II to ensure that any proposed improvements comply with EPA ordinances and policies for air quality. UTILITIES The NTUA provides the Fort Defiance study area with a full range of utilities including electricity, water, wastewater, and natural gas. Navajo Sanitation also provides residential and commercial trash removal within the Fort Defiance Chapter. Telephone service is provided by Navajo Communications Company, Inc., and cellular telephone service is available through private cellular companies. Recommendations for Further Analysis Any improvements along the study roadways would involve multiple utilities. During the project predesign and DCR/EA phase, additional investigations need to be made concerning the degree of impacts and to see if any relocation or service interruptions would need to be made. Coordination between the utility companies and the Fort Defiance Chapter is imperative during the pre-design and design phase of project implementation. HAZARDOUS MATERIALS A regulatory database review of federal and state hazardous material databases was evaluated to identify the presence of hazardous materials in the study area. Through this evaluation it was found that no leaking underground storage tanks, Superfund sites, solid waste landfills, or hazardous waste treatment, storage, and disposal facilities (TSDFs) are located within the study area. Recommendations for Further Analysis A detailed evaluation based on ROW needs should occur during the DCR/EA phase of project development. A corridor-level Preliminary Initial Site Assessment (PISA) will need to be conducted during the project design phase to identify issues and constraints related to hazardous sites in the area immediately adjacent to the corridor. VISUAL RESOURCES The visual character of the study area varies between open, grazing land to developed residential, commercial, and industrial areas. The State of Arizona designated route N12, Diné Tah "Among the People", from I-40 to Chinle as a Scenic Road due to its historic significance and scenic vistas. Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 97 As defined by ADOT, scenic roadways offer memorable visual impression, are free of visual encroachment, and form a harmonious composite of visual patterns. The 2009 Diné Tah “Among the People” Scenic Road Corridor Management Plan was developed to guide the management, development, and conservation along the roadway corridor for possible designation as a National or All-American Road. No other land-managing agencies with visual impact requirements (e.g., National Park Service, U.S. Forest Service, and Bureau of Land Management) own or have jurisdiction over land in the study area. Recommendations for Further Analysis The proposed improvements are consistent in scope and scale with the current facility, adjacent land use, and the visual character of the Community. Vegetation removal and aesthetic treatment/landscaping should coordinate with the vision of the Community and follow ordinances set forth by the Navajo Nation, Apache County District II, and the Fort Defiance Chapter. Where applicable, design consideration should be given to provide for vistas from the roadway and to incorporate cohesive planting design that allows for views of the surrounding landscape. Coordination should also occur between the Navajo Nation, communities along the Diné Tah "Among the People" scenic route, the Fort Defiance Chapter, and ADOT to develop a comprehensive signage system, landscaping standards, and corridor maintenance plan that promotes economic vitality while protecting scenic vistas. CULTURAL RESOURCES Cultural resources are properties that reflect the heritage of local communities, states, and nations. Properties judged to be significant and to retain sufficient integrity to convey that significance are termed “historic properties” and are afforded certain protection in accordance with state and federal legislation. The National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) of 1966, as amended, defines historic properties as any prehistoric or historic sites, buildings, structures, districts (including landscapes) and objects included in, or eligible for inclusion in, the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP). Traditional cultural properties having heritage value for contemporary communities (often, but not necessarily, Native American groups) also can be determined eligible for, and listed in, the NRHP because of their association with historic cultural practices or beliefs that are important in maintaining the cultural identities of such communities. Section 106 of the NHPA requires federal agencies to consider the potential effects of their undertakings on historic properties. Effects can be direct and result in physical alteration to the property, or indirect, as when the characteristics that qualify the property for NRHP listing are altered as a result of visual, auditory, or atmospheric intrusions. To be considered eligible for listing in the NRHP, a property must retain integrity of location, design, setting, materials, workmanship, feeling, and association and must also meet at least one of the following criteria: • Criterion A - Associated with events that have made a significant contribution to the broad patterns of our history; or • Criterion B - Associated with the lives of persons significant in our past; or Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 98 • Criterion C - Embodies the distinctive characteristics of a type, period, or method of construction or that represent the work of a master, or that possess high artistic values, or that represent a significant distinguishable entity whose components may lack individual distinction; or • Criterion D - Has yielded, or may be likely to yield, information important in prehistory or history For this study, archival research and record searches were conducted at the Navajo Nation Historic Preservation Department (NNHPD). The NNHPD, which operates under the authority of the Navajo Nation Cultural Resources Protection Act (NN-CRPA), participates as the Tribal Historic Preservation Office in the federal Section 106 review process (described above) on behalf of the Navajo Nation and advises federal, state, and tribal agencies and project sponsors on protection and management of cultural resources in a manner that reflects the unique preservation concerns of the Navajo Nation. In addition to the NN-CRPA, any projects occurring on Navajo Nation lands require compliance with the following: • • Archaeological Resources Protection Act (ARPA), and American Indian Religious Freedom Act (AIRFA). ARPA of 1979 (43 CRR § 6) has two fundamental purposes: • To protect irreplaceable archaeological resources on public and Indian lands from unauthorized excavation, removal, damage, alteration, or defacement, and • To increase communication and exchange of information among governmental authorities, the professional archaeological community, and private individuals having collections of archaeological resources and data that were obtained prior to the enactment of this Act. ARPA regulations define an archaeological resource as “…any material remains of human life or activities which are at least 100 years of age, and which are of archaeological interest.” These qualities must be assessed to determine whether a resource merits the protection provided for under this Act. AIRFA of 1978 (Public Law 95-341) was passed by Congress to protect and preserve for American Indians their inherent right of freedom to believe, express, and exercise their traditional religions, including but not limited to access to sites, use and possession of sacred objects, and the freedom to worship through ceremonies and traditional rites. Thus, any site or place (prehistoric or historic) having religious, ceremonial, or sacred aspects or components needs to be evaluated within the context of this law. The NNHPD records search identified approximately 90 prior cultural resources projects and nine previously recorded cultural resource sites in a search area within the general vicinity of Fort Defiance that included segments of N7, N12, N54, N110, and N112. Table 7.1 lists the number of cultural resource projects identified for each route segment and Table 7.2 lists the previously recorded cultural resource sites. NRHP eligibility recommendations for the previously recorded cultural resources sites are unknown at this point in the study. Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 99 Table 7.1. Number of Cultural Resources Projects by Route Segment Route N7 N112 N110 N12 N54 Segment No. of Assessments N12 Intersection to Tséhootsooí Elementary School 7 Tséhootsooí Elementary School to N112 Intersection 8 N112 Intersection to Western Study Boundary 4 Southern Study Boundary to Old Crystal Road 16 Old Crystal Road to N7 Intersection 12 N7 Intersection to Northern Study Boundary 2 N12 Intersection to Tséhootsooí Middle School 5 Tséhootsooí Middle School to N112 Intersection 4 N112 Intersection to Western Study Boundary 12 Southern Study Boundary to N110 Intersection 1 N110 Intersection to N54 Intersection 0 N54 Intersection to Window Rock High School 9 Window Rock High School to N7 Intersection 8 Eastern Study Boundary to N12 Intersection 5 Source: Navajo Nation Historic Preservation Department Table 7.2. List of Cultural Resources Sites by Route Segment Site ID Comments AZ-P-9-6 Artifact Scatter (AD 1000-1150) AZ-P-9-7 Lithic Scatter (no date) AZ-P-9-20 AZ-P-9-15 Rubble Area, Soil Stain, Artifacts (AD 900-1100) AZ-P-24-30 AZ-P-24-31 AZ-P-24-32 AZ-P-24-37 Site is close to N54 AZ-P-24-29 Source: Navajo Nation Historic Preservation Department Recommendations for Further Analysis As project planning progresses, additional cultural resources research and inventory will be required to identify impacts on cultural resources. Efforts to obtain specific eligibility criteria and to arrive at definitive eligibility assessments, including assessing whether the portions of eligible properties subject to potential effects are contributing or non-contributing, also is required. It is Final Report 100 Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study probable that an agreement document (a memorandum of agreement or a programmatic agreement) will be developed to demonstrate Section 106 compliance. When a preferred alternative is defined, the lead agency would need to determine what effect construction of that alternative will have on historic properties. The three possible effect determinations are “no historic properties affected,” “no adverse effect,” and “adverse effect.” Historic properties on or near the preferred alternative are not always subject to adverse effect. Various strategies can be employed to completely avoid effects or to ensure that effects are minimized and therefore not adverse. If it is determined that historic properties would be adversely affected, it would be necessary to identify mitigation measures to ameliorate those effects to the extent possible. Such measures can include data recovery of archaeological sites and documentation of historic buildings and structures. If adverse effects to cultural resources valued for in-place preservation (typically those determined eligible under Criteria A, B, or C) cannot be avoided, a Section 4(f) alternatives evaluation would be required to explore the potential for a prudent and feasible alternative that would not result in a Section 4(f) use. When project alternatives and an area of potential effects (APE) have been identified, impacts on historic properties would need to be evaluated. In addition, it would be necessary to conduct cultural resource surveys, according to current Arizona State Museum guidelines, for all portions of the APE that have not been previously surveyed or that were surveyed 10 years or more prior. SECTION 4(F) AND SECTION 6(F) RESOURCES Section 4(f) of the US Department of Transportation Act of 1966 and the Section 6(f) of the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) Act are intended to protect the nation's recreational resources from significant transportation-related impacts. Section 6(f) is a component of the LWCF Act of 1965 that protects recreational properties acquired or developed with LWCF Act funds that could be affected by transportation projects. No Section 6(f) properties have been identified in the Fort Defiance study area. Section 4(f) stipulates that the FHWA and other DOT agencies cannot approve the use of land from publicly owned parks, recreational areas, wildlife and waterfowl refuges, or public and private historical sites unless there is no feasible alternative or the projects include all possible planning to minimize harm to the property. The "use" of Section 4(f) is defined in CFR Title 23, Part 771.135(p) as: • • • When property is permanently incorporated into a transportation facility; When there is a temporary occupancy of land that is adverse in terms of the statute’s preservation purpose; or When there is a constructive use of a Section 4(f) property. A constructive use of Section 4(f) resource occurs when the proximity impacts of a proposed project adjacent or nearby a Section 4(f) property results in a substantial impairment to the property's activities or features that qualify a resource for protection under Section 4(f). A historic site is considered a Section 4(f) property if it is eligible for the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) under Criterion A, B, or C if the site is associated with events that have made a Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 101 significant contribution to the broad patterns of our history, associated with the lives of persons significant in our past, or embodies the distinctive characteristics of a type, period, or method of construction, or that represents the work of a significant distinguishable entity whose components may lack individual distinction. Potential Section 4(f) properties within the study area include the Youth Recreation Center, owned and operated by the Navajo Nation, located north of N110. The Youth Recreation Center includes the Boys and Girls Club of the Diné Nation, teen outreach center, and an outdoor skate park. In addition, the Youth Recreation Center is planned to expand to include a new multi-purpose building. Future potential Section 4(f) properties also include the sports complex constructed near the Window Rock High School. Recommendations for Further Analysis Additional analysis needs to be conducted into resources eligible for protection under Section 6(f) and Section 4(f) to evaluate potential impacts of the proposed improvements on these resources. A Section 4(f) evaluation report should be conducted that documents coordination efforts between agencies and local communities; attempts to avoid the resources, direct or constructive use impacts; and measures to minimize harm and impacts from temporary occupancy (if needed). During the DCR/EA phase, Section 4(f) properties need to be analyzed for measures to minimize harm on planned recreational facilities in proximity to the project area, if warranted. ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE REVIEW (TITLE VI) Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and related statutes ensure that individuals are not excluded from participation in, denied the benefit of, or subjected to discrimination under any program or activity receiving federal financial assistance on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, sex, and disability. Executive Order 12898, Federal Actions to Address Environmental Justice in Minority Populations and Low-Income Populations, dictates that programs, policies, and activities identify and address, as appropriate, disproportionately high adverse human health and environmental effects on minority and low-income populations. Protected populations considered in this analysis include: minority, elderly, low-income, and disabled populations. Detailed analysis of the environmental justice conditions along the study corridor can be found in Working Paper 1: Existing and Future Conditions. Key findings noted in Working Paper 1 include: • Age 65 and Older - Concentrations of elderly populations are scattered throughout the study area. The highest total number of elderly persons reside within the Rio Puerco Estates housing community, located on the southwest corner of N12/N110 intersection. Several Census Blocks along N112, N110, and N54 also have high concentrations of age 65 and older populations. • Minority Population - According to the 2010 Census, approximately 93% of the total population within the study area are minorities. The high percentage of minority population is due to the study area being located within the Navajo Nation. Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 102 • Female Head of Households -The highest concentrations of this population group occurs along Bonita Drive, adjacent to N110, N112, the Window Rock High School, and in the Rio Puerco Estates housing community • Below Poverty Population - According to the 2007-2011 ACS approximately 34% of the study area's population is considered to be below the poverty level. • Disabled Population - According to the 2000 U.S. Census, 11% of the total population within the study area are disabled. Multimodal transportation improvements would provide numerous positive impacts to environmental justice populations in the study area. Enhanced streetscaping that provides bicycle and pedestrian facilities would increase protected population's ease of access to local activity centers, places of employment, medical services, and community facilities. Additionally, incorporating transit services and bus bays will give protected populations even greater accessibility to local and regional attractions, as well as employment centers. In Chapter 8, Table 8.5 provides a detailed overview of potential impacts and benefits of recommended improvements on Title VI populations. Recommendations for Further Analysis The potential positive and negative effects on the protected populations should be discussed in the environmental analysis of the design phase. The environmental justice data will also need to be updated as data becomes available; coordination with Navajo Nation environmental planners will determine the appropriate data source for the most accurate environmental justice review. Guidance on the Environmental Justice data updates can be provided by the ADOT Multimodal Planning Division, as needed. Consideration should be given during the construction phase of project implementation on the impacts to minority-owned businesses, the mobility needs of the protected populations, and on residential parcels of protected populations. In addition, on-going outreach efforts need to be made to include meaningful participation by all residents, including low-income, disabled, below poverty and minority populations, throughout project development. Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 103 8 . P LA N FOR I MP ROV E ME NTS This section presents the plan for improvements for the Fort Defiance Industrial Area for the short-, mid-, and long-term planning horizons. This transportation plan is the result of the deficiency analysis from Working Paper 1, Stakeholder Meetings 1 input, Public Meeting 1 Input, Working Paper 2, Stakeholder Meetings 2 input, and Public Meeting 2 input. It is a multimodal plan that includes roadway, transit, pedestrian, bicycle, and trails improvements. ROADWAY IMPROVEMENT RECOMMENDATIONS The improvements identified in this section were subject to review and comment by agency stakeholders and the general public. Input received on the improvement recommendations resulted in further refinement of the improvement plan content. Short-Term (2018) Improvements Short-term phase projects are recommended to be completed as the study area reaches year 2018. Table 8.1 presents a comprehensive list of the transportation recommendations for this phase, as well as the project number, location, description, estimated costs, and potential funding sources for each project. Each project is assigned a unique project number that can be used to track project progress. Planning level cost estimates were developed based on typical per-mile/foot construction costs in 2013. Unless otherwise noted, the recommended projects are not yet funded. Chapter 10 of this report outlines detailed funding source information and guidelines. Estimated costs for each project are expressed in 2013 dollars and do not include materials or labor. Actual costs for projects could vary at the time of implementation; therefore, a detailed analysis should be performed on a case-by-case basis to determine actual costs. Table 8.1. Short-Term Recommendations Project Location and Description ID ST-1 N7: N12 Intersection to Tséhootsooí Elementary School Upgrade corridor to improve roadway and pedestrian safety conditions • Roadway Striping (0.41 mi) • Pavement Preservation – Minor Rehabilitation (Chip Seal) (0.41 mi) • Install Lighting • Add 8" Wide, Unpaved Shoulders • Add 4" Wide Landscape Buffer • Install Cattle Guards (2) • Construct Asphalt Share Use Path – Westbound (0.41 mi) ST -2 N7: Tséhootsooí Elementary School to N112 Intersection Upgrade corridor to improve roadway and pedestrian safety conditions • Roadway Striping (1.14 mi) • Pavement Preservation – Structural Overlay (1.14 mi) • Replace Signage • Install Lighting • Add 8" Wide, Unpaved Shoulders • Add 4" Wide Landscape Buffer • Repair Fencing (0.60 mi) • Install Cattle Guards (2) Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Cost $173,650 $904,660 Final Report 104 Table 8.1. Short-Term Roadway Recommendations (Continued) ID ST -3 Project Location and Description N7: N112 Intersection to Western Study Boundary Upgrade corridor to improve roadway safety conditions • Roadway Striping (0.61 mi) • Pavement Preservation – Structural Overlay • Add 8" Wide, Unpaved Shoulders N12: Southern Study Boundary to N110 Intersection Upgrade corridor to improve roadway and pedestrian safety conditions • Roadway Striping (0.18 mi) • Pavement Preservation – Minor Rehabilitation (Chip Seal) (0.18 mi) • Install Lighting • Add 4" Wide Landscape Buffer • Repair Fencing (0.18 mi) • Construct Concrete Shared Use Path – Northbound • Construct Concrete Shared Use Path – Southbound Cost $405,650 ST -5 N12: N110 Intersection to N54 Intersection Upgrade corridor to improve roadway and pedestrian safety conditions • Roadway Striping (0.16 mi) • Remove Roadside Vegetation • Pavement Preservation – Minor Rehabilitation (Chip Seal) (0.16 mi) • Replace Signage • Install Lighting • Add 4" Wide Landscape Buffer • Repair Fencing (0.14 mi) • Install Cattle Guards (2) • Construct Concrete Shared Use Path – Northbound • Construct Concrete Shared Use Path – Southbound $134,560 ST -6 N12: N54 Intersection to Window Rock High School Upgrade corridor to improve roadway and pedestrian safety conditions • Roadway Striping (1.12 mi) • Remove Roadside Vegetation • Pavement Preservation – Minor Rehabilitation (Chip Seal) (1.12 mi) • Replace Signage • Install Lighting • Add 4" Wide Landscape Buffer • Repair Fencing (0.51 mi) • Install New Fencing (0.61 mi) • Install Cattle Guards (7) • Construct Extra-Wide Asphalt Shared Use Path – Northbound $494,220 ST-4 Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study $140,000 Final Report 105 Table 8.1. Short-Term Roadway Recommendations (Continued) ID Project Location and Description ST -7 N12: Window Rock High School to N7 Intersection Upgrade corridor to improve roadway and pedestrian safety conditions • Roadway Striping (0.47 mi) • Remove Roadside Vegetation • Pavement Preservation – Minor Rehabilitation (Chip Seal) (0.47 mi) • Install Lighting • Add 4" Wide Landscape Buffer • Install Cattle Guard (1) • Install New Fencing (0.47 mi) • Construct Extra-Wide Asphalt Shared Use Path – Northbound ST -8 ST -9 ST -10 Cost $195,690 N54: Eastern Study Boundary to N12 Intersection Upgrade corridor to improve roadway and pedestrian safety conditions • Roadway Striping (0.66 mi) • Pavement Preservation – Minor Rehabilitation (Chip Seal) (0.66 mi) • Install Lighting • Add 4" Wide Landscape Buffer • Install New Fencing (0.40 mi) • Install Cattle Guards (6) N110: N12 Intersection to Tséhootsooí Middle School Upgrade corridor to improve roadway and pedestrian safety conditions • Roadway Striping (0.54 mi) • Pavement Preservation – Structural Overlay (0.54 mi) • Replace Signage • Install Lighting • Add 4" Wide Landscape Buffer • Construct Concrete Shared Use Path – Westbound • Construct Concrete Shared Use Path – Eastbound $136,300 N110: Tséhootsooí Middle School to N112 Intersection Upgrade corridor to improve roadway and pedestrian safety conditions • Roadway Striping (0.34 mi) • Pavement Preservation – Structural Overlay (0. 34 mi) • Replace Signage • Install Lighting • Add 4" Wide Landscape Buffer • Construct Concrete Shared Use Path – Westbound • Construct Concrete Shared Use Path – Eastbound $506,060 Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study $803,360 Final Report 106 Table 8.1. Short-Term Roadway Recommendations (Continued) ID ST -11 Project Location and Description N110: N112 Intersection to Western Study Boundary Upgrade corridor to improve roadway and pedestrian safety conditions • Roadway Striping (1.17 mi) • Pavement Preservation – Minor Rehabilitation (Chip Seal) (1.17 mi) • Install Lighting • Add 4" Wide Landscape Buffer • Add Unpaved Shoulders • Repair Existing Fencing (1.08 mi) Cost $275,650 ST -12 N112: Southern Study Boundary to Old Crystal Road Upgrade corridor to improve roadway and pedestrian safety conditions • Roadway Striping (0.81 mi) • Remove Roadside Vegetation • Replace Signage • Pavement Preservation – Structural Overlay (0.81 mi) • Install Lighting • Add 4" Wide Landscape Buffer • Add Unpaved Shoulders • Install New Fencing (0.91 mi) • Install Cattle Guards (7) • Construct Narrow Asphalt Shared Use Path – Southbound N112: Old Crystal Road to N7 Intersection Upgrade corridor to improve roadway and pedestrian safety conditions • Roadway Striping (0.62 mi) • Remove Roadside Vegetation • Replace Signage • Pavement Preservation – Structural Overlay (0.62 mi) • Install Lighting • Add 4" Wide Landscape Buffer • Add Unpaved Shoulders • Install New Fencing (1.2 mi) • Install Cattle Guards (9) • Construct Narrow Asphalt Share Use Path – Southbound N112: N7 Intersection to Northern Study Boundary Restripe roadway to improve roadway safety conditions N112/N7 Intersection Upgrade intersection to include: • Pavement Restriping of Travel Lanes and to Include Pedestrian Crosswalks • Add Turn Lanes on N112 - Northbound and Southbound • Add Left Turn Lane on N7 - Westbound $824,760 ST -13 ST -14 ST -15 Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study $676,240 $1,750 $5,000 Final Report 107 Table 8.1. Short-Term Roadway Recommendations (Continued) ID ST -16 ST -17 ST -18 Project Location and Description N12/N110 Intersection Repair cross slope to improve drainage; remove barrier along intersection; and upgrade intersection to include: Option 1 (No Roundabout): Upgrade traffic signal; install raised medians on N12 and N110; reconfigure pedestrian island; construct shared use path; install pedestrian crosswalks and pedestrian crossing signals; convert entrance to Conoco Gas Station to a right-in only; pavement restriping to include exclusive turn lanes. Option 2 (Roundabout): Reconfigure intersection to include a roundabout; pedestrian crosswalks and sidewalks incorporated into design N112/N110 Intersection Repair cross slope to improve drainage and upgrade intersection to include: Option 1 (No Roundabout): Restripe the intersection to include turn-lanes on N112; install traffic signal; pedestrian crosswalks and sidewalks incorporated into design Option 2 (Roundabout): Reconfigure intersection to include a roundabout; pedestrian crosswalks and sidewalks incorporated into design Black Canyon Drive/N110 Intersection Widen Cross-street to Add Turn Lanes and Cross-walks Cost Option1: $600,000 Option 2: $1,050,000 Option1: $600,000 Option 2: $1,050,000 $300,000 ST -19 NTUA/N12 Intersection Widen Cross-street to Add Turn Lanes and Cross-walks $300,000 ST -20 Tséhootsooí Middle School/N110 Intersection Upgrade intersection to include traffic calming measure: Option 1: Chicane raised medians. Enhancement to the chicane will need to be made in the mid-term phase to include the HAWK pedestrian beacon Option 2: Install flashing speed signs Option 3: Install rumble strips Option 4: Install speed limit pavement markings Option 5: Install speed hump or speed table Option 1: $100,000 Option 2: $80,000 Option 3: $4,500 Option 4: $1,500 Option 5: $10,000 ST -21 Window Rock High School/N12 Intersection Upgrade intersection to include traffic calming measure: Option 1: Chicane raised medians. Enhancement to the chicane will need to be made in the mid-term phase to include the HAWK pedestrian beacon Option 2: Install flashing speed signs Option 3: Install rumble strips Option 4: Install speed limit pavement markings Option 5: Install speed hump or speed table Option 1: $100,000 Option 2: $80,000 Option 3: $4,500 Option 4: $1,500 Option 5: $10,000 Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 108 Table 8.1. Short-Term Roadway Recommendations (Continued) ID ST -22 ST -23 ST -24 ST -25 ST -26 Project Location and Description Tséhootsooí Elementary School/N7 Intersection Upgrade intersection to include traffic calming measure: Option 1: Chicane raised medians. Enhancement to the chicane will need to be made in the mid-term phase to include the HAWK pedestrian beacon Option 2: Install flashing speed signs Option 3: Install rumble strips Option 4: Install speed limit pavement markings Option 5: Install speed hump or speed table Entrance to Town - Southbound N12 Upgrade roadway to include traffic calming measures: Option 1: Install flashing speed signs Option 2 Install rumble strips Option 3: Install speed limit pavement markings Option 4: Install speed hump or speed table Cost Option 1: $100,000 Option 2: $80,000 Option 3: $4,500 Option 4: $1,500 Option 5: $10,000 Entrance to Town - Northbound N12 Upgrade roadway to include traffic calming measures: Option 1: Install flashing speed signs Option 2 Install rumble strips Option 3: Install speed limit pavement markings Option 4: Install speed hump or speed table Entrance to Town - Northbound N112 Upgrade roadway to include traffic calming measures: Option 1: Install flashing speed signs Option 2 Install rumble strips Option 3: Install speed limit pavement markings Option 4: Install speed hump or speed table Entrance to Window Rock High School Sports Stadium Create alternative route entering/exiting the Stadium: Option 1a: Extend Window Rock High School Road south for 0.14 miles to entrance currently in construction Option 1b: Extend Window Rock High School Road south for 0.25 miles Option 2: Extend Industrial Area roadway to the Stadium (0.23 miles) Option 1: $80,000 Option 2: $4,500 Option 3: $1,500 Option 4: $10,000 Option 1: $80,000 Option 2: $4,500 Option 3: $1,500 Option 4: $10,000 Option 1: $80,000 Option 2: $4,500 Option 3: $1,500 Option 4: $10,000 Option 1a: $126,000 Option 1b: $225,000 Option 2: $207,000 Project Descriptions for Short-Term Improvements The following section presents specific improvement project information for projects identified for implementation during the short-term phase. Each project is profiled for ease of reference to pertinent information that may enable decision makers and funding agencies to quickly understand the need for their implementation. Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 109 Project #ST-1. N7: N12 Intersection to Tséhootsooí Elementary School Route Name: N7 Section Number: 155, 150 Project Location: N12 Intersection to Tséhootsooí Elementary School Project Mileage: 0.41 miles Existing Conditions: • • • • • Existing and Future Developments Served: Existing and Projected Traffic Conditions: Number of Lanes: One lane in each direction, each lane approximately 12 FT wide Functional Classification: Rural Minor Arterial Speed Limit: 30 MPH; 15 MPH school zone approaching Tséhootsooí Elementary School Education and Health land use types are located along the northern portion of the corridor Future NTUA complex, elderly center, government buildings along the northern portion; retail and IHS housing along southern portion • Existing ADT: 5,014 Existing LOS: C • 2018 ADT: 5,515 2018 LOS: C Average Daily Traffic (ADT) refers to a roadway's total traffic volume during a 24-hour period. Level of Service (LOS) is measurement of traffic congestion. LOS is expressed using letters "A" through "F" , with LOS A representing free flow conditions and LOS F representing failed conditions. Project Description: Improvement Roadway Striping (0.41 mi) Pavement Preservation – Minor Rehabilitation (0.41 mi) Cost Estimate $2,050 $20,500 Purpose/Benefit Improve lane visibility; Enhance safety Extend pavement life; Improve driver experience Install Lighting $20,500 Improve night time visibility and safety Add 8" Wide Shoulders $24,600 Provide safe area for vehicles to pull over Add 4" Wide Landscape Buffer $12,000 Increase pedestrian safety; Improve aesthetics Install Cattle Guards (2) $12,000 Restrict livestock from entering right-of-way $82,000 Pedestrian/Bicyclist mobility Construct Asphalt Share Use Path – WB (0.41 mi) Corridor is partially developed; therefore environmental impacts are minimal. Consideration Environmental Overview: should be given to impacts on biological and cultural resources, utilities, and noise receptors. Issues Addressed: Roadway safety concerns; pedestrian/bicyclist mobility; emergency vehicle access; and pavement preservation Project Benefits: Funding Sources: Improved motor vehicle, pedestrian, bicyclist safety conditions; pedestrian/bicyclist access to N12; enhanced night time driving conditions; and improved pavement conditions Tribal Transportation Program (TTP); Surface Transportation Program (STP); Federal Lands Transportation Program (FLTP) ); Transportation Alternative Program (TAP); TAP Safe Routes to School; Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP) Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 110 Project #ST-2. N7: Tséhootsooí Elementary School to N112 Intersection Route Name: N7 Section Number: 146, 140, 130, 120 Project Location: Tséhootsooí Elementary School to N112 Intersection Project Mileage: Existing Conditions: 1.14 miles • Number of Lanes: One lane in each direction, each lane approximately 12 FT wide • Functional Classification: Rural Minor Arterial • Speed Limit: 30 MPH; 15 MPH school zone approaching Tséhootsooí Elementary School • South of N7 is classified as agriculture, rural single family residential land use. North side of N7 is designated as grazing • Future retail and college along the south side; Government buildings north of Tséhootsooí Elementary School • Existing ADT: 2,305 Existing LOS: B • 2018 ADT: 2,536 2018 LOS: B Existing and Future Developments Served: Existing and Projected Traffic Conditions: Average Daily Traffic (ADT) refers to a roadway's total traffic volume during a 24-hour period. Level of Service (LOS) is measurement of traffic congestion. LOS is expressed using letters "A" through "F" , with LOS A representing free flow conditions and LOS F representing failed conditions. Project Description: Improvement Cost Estimate $5,700 Roadway Striping (1.14 mi) Pavement Preservation – Structural Overlay (1.14 mi) $684,000 $4,560 Replace Signage Purpose/Benefit Improve lane visibility; Enhance safety Extend pavement life; Improve driver experience Increase driver awareness and safety Install Lighting $57,000 Improve night time visibility and safety Add 8" Wide Shoulders $68,400 Provide safe area for vehicles to pull over Add 4" Wide Landscape Buffer $33,000 Increase pedestrian safety; Improve aesthetics Repair Fencing (0.60 mi) $27,000 Restrict livestock from entering right-of-way Install Cattle Guards (5) $25,000 Restrict livestock from entering right-of-way Environmental Overview: Issues Addressed: May have impacts to wetlands and biological resources in area. Consideration should be given to impacts on cultural resources. Roadway safety concerns; emergency vehicle access; and pavement preservation Project Benefits: Increased roadway safety; enhanced night time driving conditions; and improved pavement conditions Funding Sources: Tribal Transportation Program (TTP); Federal Lands Transportation Program (FLTP); Transportation Alternative Program (TAP); Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP) Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 111 Project #ST-3. N7: N112 Intersection to Western Study Boundary Route Name: N7 Section Number: 115 Project Location: N112 Intersection to Western Study Boundary Project Mileage: 0.61 miles Existing Conditions: Existing and Future Developments Served: • Number of Lanes: One lane eastbound, two lanes westbound; each lane approximately 12 FT wide • Functional Classification: Rural Minor Arterial • Speed Limit: 55 MPH • South of N7 is classified as agriculture, rural single family residential land use. North side of N7 is designated as grazing Existing and Projected Traffic Conditions: • Existing ADT: 877 • 2018 ADT: 965 Existing LOS: A 2018 LOS: A Average Daily Traffic (ADT) refers to a roadway's total traffic volume during a 24-hour period. Level of Service (LOS) is measurement of traffic congestion. LOS is expressed using letters "A" through "F" , with LOS A representing free flow conditions and LOS F representing failed conditions. Project Description: Improvement Roadway Striping (0.61 mi) Pavement Preservation – Structural Overlay Cost Estimate $ 3,050 $366,000 Purpose/Benefit Improve lane visibility; Enhance safety Extend pavement life; Improve driver experience Issues Addressed: Provide safe area for vehicles to pull over $36,600 May have impacts to wetlands and biological resources in area. Consideration should be given to impacts on cultural resources. Roadway safety concerns; emergency vehicle access; and pavement preservation Project Benefits: Improved roadway safety conditions and improved pavement conditions Funding Sources: Tribal Transportation Program (TTP); Federal Lands Transportation Program (FLTP); Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP) Add 8" Wide Shoulders Environmental Overview: Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 112 Project #ST-4. N12: Southern Study Boundary to N110 Intersection Route Name: Section Number: N12 140, 150 Project Location: Southern Study Boundary to N110 Intersection Project Mileage: Existing Conditions: Existing and Future Developments Served: 0.18 miles • Number of Lanes: Two lanes in each direction with center turn lane, each lane approximately 12-14 FT wide • Functional Classification: Section 140: Major Arterial Section 150: Rural Minor Arterial • Speed Limit: 35 MPH • The western portion of N12 is designated as residential, while the eastern portion of the corridor is designated commercial. Existing and Projected Traffic Conditions: • Existing ADT: 13,061 Existing LOS: B • 2018 ADT: 14,367 2018 LOS: B Average Daily Traffic (ADT) refers to a roadway's total traffic volume during a 24-hour period. Level of Service (LOS) is measurement of traffic congestion. LOS is expressed using letters "A" through "F" , with LOS A representing free flow conditions and LOS F representing failed conditions. Project Description: Improvement Roadway Striping (0.18 mi) Pavement Preservation – Minor Rehabilitation (0.18 mi) Cost Estimate $900 $9,000 Purpose/Benefit Improve lane visibility; Enhance safety Extend pavement life; Improve driver experience Install Lighting $9,000 Improve night time visibility and safety Add 4" Wide Landscape Buffer $5,000 Increase pedestrian safety; Improve aesthetics Repair Fencing (0.18 mi) $8,100 Restrict livestock from entering right-of-way Construct Concrete Shared Use Path – Northbound $54,000 Pedestrian/ Bicyclist mobility Pedestrian/ Bicyclist mobility Construct Concrete Shared Use Path – Southbound $54,000 Corridor is developed; therefore environmental impacts are minimal. Consideration should be Environmental Overview: given to impacts on flood event water surface elevations, cultural resources, utilities, and sensitive noise receptors. Issues Addressed: Roadway safety concerns; pedestrian/bicyclist mobility; emergency vehicle access; and pavement preservation Project Benefits: Improved motor vehicle, pedestrian, bicyclist safety conditions; pedestrian/bicyclist access to activity centers; enhanced night time driving conditions; and improved pavement conditions Funding Sources: Tribal Transportation Program (TTP); Surface Transportation Program (STP); Federal Lands Transportation Program (FLTP); Transportation Alternative Program (TAP); Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP); Tribal Safety Program Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 113 Project #ST-5. N12: N110 Intersection to N54 Intersection Route Name: Section Number: Project Location: N12 150 N110 Intersection to N54 Intersection Project Mileage: Existing Conditions: 0.16 miles Existing and Future Developments Served: Existing and Projected Traffic Conditions: • Number of Lanes: Two lanes in each direction with center turn lane • Functional Classification: Rural Minor Arterial • Speed Limit: 35 MPH • Primarily designated as commercial, since the Conoco and the 7 to 11 gas stations are located in this corridor • Future retail immediately north of Conoco Gas Station • Existing ADT: 11,475 Existing LOS: B • 2018 ADT: 12,623 2018 LOS: B Average Daily Traffic (ADT) refers to a roadway's total traffic volume during a 24-hour period. Level of Service (LOS) is measurement of traffic congestion. LOS is expressed using letters "A" through "F" , with LOS A representing free flow conditions and LOS F representing failed conditions. Project Description: Improvement Cost Estimate Purpose/Benefit Roadway Striping (0.16 mi) $800 Improve lane visibility; Enhance safety Remove Roadside Vegetation Improve driver visibility, drainage, and safety $320 Pavement Preservation – Minor Rehabilitation (0.16 mi) $8,000 Extend pavement life; Improve driver experience Replace Signage Increase driver awareness and safety $640 Install Lighting Improve night time visibility and safety $8,000 Add 4" Wide Landscape Buffer Increase pedestrian safety; Improve aesthetics $4,500 Repair Fencing (0.14 mi) Restrict livestock from entering right-of-way $6,300 Install Cattle Guards (2) Restrict livestock from entering right-of-way $10,000 Construct Concrete Shared Use Path – NB (0.16 mi) Pedestrian/Bicyclist mobility $48,000 Construct Concrete Shared Use Path – SB (0.16 mi) Pedestrian/Bicyclist mobility $48,000 Environmental Overview: Corridor is developed; therefore environmental impacts are minimal. Consideration should be given to impacts on flood event water surface elevations, utilities, and noise receptors. Issues Addressed: Roadway safety concerns; pedestrian/bicyclist mobility; emergency vehicle access; and pavement preservation Project Benefits: Increased motor vehicle, pedestrian, bicyclist safety conditions; pedestrian/bicyclist access to activity centers; enhanced night time driving conditions; and improved pavement conditions Funding Sources: Tribal Transportation Program (TTP); Surface Transportation Program (STP); Federal Lands Transportation Program (FLTP); Transportation Alternative Program (TAP); Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP) Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 114 Project #ST-6. N12: N54 Intersection to Window Rock High School Route Name: Section Number: Project Location: N12 160, 165 N54 Intersection to Window Rock High School Project Mileage: Existing Conditions: 1.12 miles • Number of Lanes: Two lanes in each direction with center turn lane, each lane approximately 12-14 FT wide • Functional Classification: Rural Minor Arterial • Speed Limit: 35 MPH; 15 MPH school zone approaching Window Rock High School • Land use designations along the corridor include single family residential, agriculture, residential, religion, utility, and government • Future expansion of housing for school employees southeast of Window Rock High School • Existing ADT: 11,292 Existing LOS: B • 2018 ADT: 12,421 2018 LOS: B Existing and Future Developments Served: Existing and Projected Traffic Conditions: Average Daily Traffic (ADT) refers to a roadway's total traffic volume during a 24-hour period. Level of Service (LOS) is measurement of traffic congestion. LOS is expressed using letters "A" through "F" , with LOS A representing free flow conditions and LOS F representing failed conditions. Project Description: Improvement Cost Estimate Purpose/Benefit Roadway Striping (1.12 mi) $5,600 Improve lane visibility; Enhance safety Remove Roadside Vegetation (1.12 mi) Improve driver visibility, drainage, and safety $2,240 Pavement Preservation – Minor Rehabilitation (1.12 mi) $56,000 Extend pavement life; Improve driver experience Replace Signage Increase driver awareness and safety $4,480 Install Lighting Improve night time visibility and safety $56,000 Add 4" Wide Landscape Buffer Increase pedestrian safety; Improve aesthetics $32,500 Repair Fencing (0.51 mi) Restrict livestock from entering right-of-way $22,950 Install New Fencing (1.12 mi) Restrict livestock from entering right-of-way $27,450 Install Cattle Guards (7) Restrict livestock from entering right-of-way $35,000 Construct Extra-Wide Asphalt Shared Use Path – NB Pedestrian/Bicyclist mobility $252,000 Environmental Overview: Corridor is developed; therefore environmental impacts are minimal. Consideration should be given to impacts on cultural resources, utilities, and noise receptors. Issues Addressed: Roadway safety concerns; pedestrian/bicyclist mobility; emergency vehicle access; and pavement preservation Project Benefits: Improved motor vehicle, pedestrian, bicyclist safety conditions; pedestrian/bicyclist access to activity centers; enhanced night time driving conditions; and improved pavement conditions Funding Sources: Tribal Transportation Program (TTP); Surface Transportation Program (STP); Federal Lands Transportation Program (FLTP); Transportation Alternative Program (TAP);TAP -Safe Routes to School; Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP) Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 115 Project #ST-7. N12: Window Rock High School to N7 Intersection Route Name: Section Number: Project Location: N12 170, 180 Window Rock High School to N7 Intersection Project Mileage: Existing Conditions: 0.47 miles • Number of Lanes: Two lanes in each direction with center turn lane • Functional Classification: Rural Minor Arterial • Speed Limit: 35 MPH; 15 MPH school zone approaching Window Rock High School • Eastern side of corridor is designated as residential and education, while the western portion is designated as grazing • Future retail and college as well as additional IHS housing in northwestern portion • Existing ADT: 7,524 Existing LOS: A • 2018 ADT: 10,276 2018 LOS: B Existing and Future Developments Served: Existing and Projected Traffic Conditions: Project Description: Improvement Roadway Striping (0.47 mi) Remove Roadside Vegetation Average Daily Traffic (ADT) refers to a roadway's total traffic volume during a 24-hour period. Level of Service (LOS) is measurement of traffic congestion. LOS is expressed using letters "A" through "F" , with LOS A representing free flow conditions and LOS F representing failed conditions. Cost Estimate $2,350 $940 Purpose/Benefit Improve lane visibility; Enhance safety Improve driver visibility, drainage, and safety Pavement Preservation – Minor Rehabilitation (0.47 mi) $23,500 Extend pavement life; Improve driver experience Install Lighting $23,500 Improve night time visibility and safety Add 4" Wide Landscape Buffer $13,500 Increase pedestrian safety; Improve aesthetics Install New Fencing (0.47 mi) $21,150 Restrict livestock from entering right-of-way Install Cattle Guards (1) $5,000 Restrict livestock from entering right-of-way Pedestrian/Bicyclist mobility Construct Extra-Wide Asphalt Shared Use Path – NB $105,750 Environmental Overview: Corridor is partially developed; therefore environmental impacts are minimal. Consideration should be given to impacts on cultural resources, utilities, and sensitive noise receptors. Issues Addressed: Roadway safety concerns; pedestrian/bicyclist mobility; emergency vehicle access; and pavement preservation Project Benefits: Improved motor vehicle, pedestrian, bicyclist safety conditions; pedestrian/bicyclist access to activity centers; enhanced night time driving conditions; and improved pavement conditions Funding Sources: Tribal Transportation Program (TTP); Surface Transportation Program (STP); Federal Lands Transportation Program (FLTP); Transportation Alternative Program (TAP);TAP -Safe Routes to School; Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP) Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 116 Project #ST-8. N54: Eastern Study Boundary to N12 Intersection Route Name: N54 Section Number: 90 Project Location: Eastern Study Boundary to N12 Intersection Project Mileage: 0.66 miles Existing Conditions: • Number of Lanes: One lane in each direction, each lane approximately 12 FT wide • Functional Classification: Rural Minor Arterial • Speed Limit: 35 MPH • Land use designations along the corridor include religion, residential, utility, industrial, government, and rural single family residential • Future redeveloped trailer park, solar equipment manufacturing facility, and transit center expansion along northern portion of roadway • Existing ADT: 3,577 Existing LOS: C • 2018 ADT: 4,267 2018 LOS: C Existing and Future Developments Served: Existing and Projected Traffic Conditions: Average Daily Traffic (ADT) refers to a roadway's total traffic volume during a 24-hour period. Level of Service (LOS) is measurement of traffic congestion. LOS is expressed using letters "A" through "F" , with LOS A representing free flow conditions and LOS F representing failed conditions. Project Description: Improvement Roadway Striping (0.66 mi) Pavement Preservation – Minor Rehabilitation (0.66 mi) Cost Estimate $3,300 $33,000 Purpose/Benefit Improve lane visibility; Enhance safety Extend pavement life; Improve driver experience Install Lighting $33,000 Improve night time visibility and safety Add 4" Wide Landscape Buffer $19,000 Increase pedestrian safety; Improve aesthetics Install New Fencing (0.40 mi) $18,000 Restrict livestock from entering right-of-way Install Cattle Guards (6) Environmental Overview: Issues Addressed: Restrict livestock from entering right-of-way $30,000 Corridor is developed; therefore environmental impacts are minimal. Consideration should be given to impacts on flood event water surface elevations, cultural resources, utilities, and sensitive noise receptors. Roadway safety concerns; emergency vehicle access; and pavement preservation Project Benefits: Improved roadway safety conditions; enhanced night time driving conditions; and improved pavement conditions Funding Sources: Tribal Transportation Program (TTP); Surface Transportation Program (STP); Federal Lands Transportation Program (FLTP); Transportation Alternative Program (TAP); Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP) Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 117 Project #ST-9. N110: N12 Intersection to Tséhootsooí Middle School Route Name: Section Number: Project Location: N110 10, 20, 30 N12 Intersection to Tséhootsooí Middle School Project Mileage: Existing Conditions: 0.54 miles • Number of Lanes: Two lanes in each direction with a center turn lane, each lane approximately 12-14 FT wide • Functional Classification: Rural Minor Arterial • Speed Limit: 35 MPH; 15 MPH school zone approaching Tséhootsooí Middle School • The southern portion of N110 is designated residential and religion, while commercial and grazing land use designations are located along the northern portion of the corridor • Potential for future retail establishments west of Conoco Gas Station and expansion of New Youth Recreation Complex • Existing ADT: 8,564 Existing LOS: B • 2018 ADT: 9,420 2018 LOS: B Existing and Future Developments Served: Existing and Projected Traffic Conditions: Average Daily Traffic (ADT) refers to a roadway's total traffic volume during a 24-hour period. Level of Service (LOS) is measurement of traffic congestion. LOS is expressed using letters "A" through "F" , with LOS A representing free flow conditions and LOS F representing failed conditions. Project Description: Improvement Cost Estimate Purpose/Benefit Roadway Striping (0.54 mi) $2,700 Improve lane visibility; Enhance safety Pavement Preservation – Structural Overlay (0.54 mi) $432,000 Extend pavement life; Improve driver experience Replace Signage Increase driver awareness and safety $2,160 Install Lighting Improve night time visibility and safety $27,000 Add 4" Wide Landscape Buffer Increase pedestrian safety; Improve aesthetics $15,500 Construct Concrete Shared Use Path – WB (0.54 mi) $162,000 Pedestrian/Bicyclist mobility Construct Concrete Shared Use Path – EB (0.54 mi) $162,000 Pedestrian/Bicyclist mobility Environmental Overview: Corridor is developed; therefore environmental impacts are minimal. Consideration should be given to impacts on flood event water surface elevations, cultural resources, utilities, and sensitive noise receptors. Issues Addressed: Roadway safety concerns; pedestrian/bicyclist mobility; emergency vehicle access; and pavement preservation Project Benefits: Improved motor vehicle, pedestrian, bicyclist safety conditions; pedestrian/bicyclist access to activity centers; enhanced night time driving conditions; and improved pavement conditions Funding Sources: Tribal Transportation Program (TTP); Surface Transportation Program (STP); Federal Lands Transportation Program (FLTP); Transportation Alternative Program (TAP);TAP -Safe Routes to School; Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP) Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 118 Project #ST-10. N110: Tséhootsooí Middle School to N112 Intersection Route Name: Section Number: Project Location: N110 35 Tséhootsooí Middle School to N112 Intersection Project Mileage: Existing Conditions: 0.34 miles • Number of Lanes: Two lanes in each direction with a center turn lane, each lane approximately 12-14 FT wide • Functional Classification: Rural Minor Arterial • Speed Limit: 35 MPH; 15 MPH school zone approaching Tséhootsooí Middle School • Land use designations along this corridor include recreation, government, and education Existing and Future Developments Served: Existing and Projected Traffic Conditions: • Existing ADT: 5,714 • 2018 ADT: 6,285 Existing LOS: A 2018 LOS: A Average Daily Traffic (ADT) refers to a roadway's total traffic volume during a 24-hour period. Level of Service (LOS) is measurement of traffic congestion. LOS is expressed using letters "A" through "F" , with LOS A representing free flow conditions and LOS F representing failed conditions. Project Description: Improvement Cost Estimate Purpose/Benefit Roadway Striping (0.34 mi) $1,700 Improve lane visibility; Enhance safety Pavement Preservation – Structural Overlay (0.34 mi) $272,000 Extend pavement life; Improve driver experience Replace Signage Increase driver awareness and safety $1,360 Install Lighting Improve night time visibility and safety $17,000 Add 4" Wide Landscape Buffer Increase pedestrian safety; Improve aesthetics $10,000 Construct Concrete Shared Use Path – WB (0.34 mi) $102,000 Pedestrian/Bicyclist mobility Construct Concrete Shared Use Path – EB (0.34 mi) $102,000 Pedestrian/Bicyclist mobility Environmental Overview: Corridor is developed; therefore environmental impacts are minimal. Consideration should be given to impacts on cultural resources, utilities, and sensitive noise receptors. Issues Addressed: Roadway safety concerns; pedestrian/bicyclist mobility; emergency vehicle access; and pavement preservation Project Benefits: Improved motor vehicle, pedestrian, bicyclist safety conditions; pedestrian/bicyclist access to activity centers; enhanced night time driving conditions; and improved pavement conditions Funding Sources: Tribal Transportation Program (TTP); Surface Transportation Program (STP); Federal Lands Transportation Program (FLTP); Transportation Alternative Program (TAP);TAP -Safe Routes to School; Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP) Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 119 Project #ST-11. N110: N112 Intersection to Western Study Boundary Route Name: Section Number: Project Location: N110 40, 43, 46, 50, 55 N112 Intersection to Western Study Boundary Project Mileage: 1.17 miles Existing Conditions: • Number of Lanes: Two lanes in each direction with a center turn lane, each lane approximately 12-14 FT wide • Functional Classification: Rural Minor Arterial • Speed Limit: 35 MPH • Land use designations include police/fire, medium density residential, rural single family residential, public facility/institutional, and government • Future office complex at northwest corner of N110/N112, Old Downtown redevelopment, and medical school in the vicinity of old hospital area • Existing ADT: 2,903 Existing LOS: B • 2018 ADT: 3,193 2018 LOS: B Existing and Future Developments Served: Existing and Projected Traffic Conditions: Average Daily Traffic (ADT) refers to a roadway's total traffic volume during a 24-hour period. Level of Service (LOS) is measurement of traffic congestion. LOS is expressed using letters "A" through "F" , with LOS A representing free flow conditions and LOS F representing failed conditions. Project Description: Improvement Roadway Striping (1.17 mi) Pavement Preservation – Minor Rehabilitation (1.17 mi) $58,500 Install Lighting $58,500 Purpose/Benefit Improve lane visibility; Enhance safety Extend pavement life; Improve driver experience Improve night time visibility and safety Add 4' Wide Landscape Buffer $34,000 Increase pedestrian safety; Improve aesthetics Add Shoulders $70,200 Provide safe area for vehicles to pull over Cost Estimate $5,850 Restrict livestock from entering right-of-way Repair Existing Fencing (1.08 mi) $48,600 Environmental Overview: Corridor is developed; therefore environmental impacts are minimal. Consideration should be given to impacts on cultural resources, utilities, and sensitive noise receptors. Issues Addressed: Roadway safety concerns; emergency vehicle access; and pavement preservation Project Benefits: Improved roadway safety conditions; enhanced night time driving conditions; and improved pavement conditions Funding Sources: Tribal Transportation Program (TTP); Federal Lands Transportation Program (FLTP); Transportation Alternative Program (TAP); Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP) Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 120 Project #ST-12. N112: Southern Study Boundary to Old Crystal Road Route Name: N112 Section Number: 50 Project Location: Southern Study Boundary to Old Crystal Road Project Mileage: Existing Conditions: Existing and Future Developments Served: Existing and Projected Traffic Conditions: 0.81 miles • Number of Lanes: One lane in each, each lane approximately 12 FT wide • Functional Classification: Rural Minor Arterial • Speed Limit: 35 MPH • Land use designations include government, public facility/institutional, rural single family residential, and agriculture. Future residential redevelopment south of Forth Defiance Chapter House as well as office complex at the northwest corner of N112/N110 • Existing ADT: 3,138 Existing LOS: B • 2018 ADT: 3,452 2018 LOS: B Average Daily Traffic (ADT) refers to a roadway's total traffic volume during a 24-hour period. Level of Service (LOS) is measurement of traffic congestion. LOS is expressed using letters "A" through "F" , with LOS A representing free flow conditions and LOS F representing failed conditions. Project Description: Improvement Cost Estimate Purpose/Benefit Roadway Striping (0.81 mi) $4,050 Improve lane visibility; Enhance safety Remove Roadside Vegetation Improve driver visibility, drainage, and safety $1,620 Replace Signage Increase driver awareness and safety $3,240 Pavement Preservation – Structural Overlay (0.81 mi) $486,000 Extend pavement life; Improve driver experience Install Lighting Improve night time visibility and safety $40,500 Add 4" Wide Landscape Buffer Increase pedestrian safety; Improve aesthetics $23,500 Add Shoulder Provide safe area for vehicles to pull over $48,600 Install New Fencing (0.91 mi) Restrict livestock from entering right-of-way $36,450 Install Cattle Guards (7) Restrict livestock from entering right-of-way $35,000 Construct Narrow Asphalt Shared Use Path – SB Pedestrian/Bicyclist mobility $145,800 Environmental Overview: Corridor is developed; therefore environmental impacts are minimal. Consideration should be given to impacts on cultural resources, utilities, and noise receptors. Issues Addressed: Roadway safety concerns; pedestrian/bicyclist mobility; emergency vehicle access; and pavement preservation Project Benefits: Improved motor vehicle, pedestrian, bicyclist safety conditions; pedestrian/bicyclist access to activity centers; enhanced night time driving conditions; and improved pavement conditions Funding Sources: Tribal Transportation Program (TTP); Surface Transportation Program (STP); Federal Lands Transportation Program (FLTP); Transportation Alternative Program (TAP); Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP) Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 121 Project #ST-13. N112: Old Crystal Road to N7 Intersection Route Name: Section Number: Project Location: N112 60, 63, 66 Old Crystal Road to N7 Intersection Project Mileage: 0.62 miles Existing Conditions: Existing and Future Developments Served: • • • • • Existing and Projected Traffic Conditions: • Existing ADT: 2,714 • 2018 ADT: 2,985 Number of Lanes: One lane in each direction, each lane approximately 12 FT wide Functional Classification: Rural Minor Arterial Speed Limit: 35 MPH The corridor is bounded by rural single family residential land use. No developments are currently planned Existing LOS: B 2018 LOS: B Average Daily Traffic (ADT) refers to a roadway's total traffic volume during a 24-hour period. Level of Service (LOS) is measurement of traffic congestion. LOS is expressed using letters "A" through "F" , with LOS A representing free flow conditions and LOS F representing failed conditions. Project Description: Improvement Cost Estimate Purpose/Benefit Roadway Striping (0.62 mi) $3,100 Improve lane visibility; Enhance safety Remove Roadside Vegetation Improve driver visibility, drainage, and safety $1,860 Replace Signage Increase driver awareness and safety $2,480 Pavement Preservation – Structural Overlay (0.62 mi) Extend pavement life; Improve driver experience $372,000 Install Lighting Improve night time visibility and safety $31,000 Add 4" Wide Landscape Buffer Increase pedestrian safety; Improve aesthetics $18,000 Add Shoulders Provide safe area for vehicles to pull over $37,200 Install New Fencing (1.2 mi) Restrict livestock from entering right-of-way $54,000 Install Cattle Guards (9) Restrict livestock from entering right-of-way $45,000 Construct Narrow Asphalt Share Use Path – SB (0.62 mi) $111,600 Pedestrian/Bicyclist mobility Corridor is developed; therefore environmental impacts are minimal. Consideration should be Environmental Overview: given to impacts on cultural resources, utilities, and noise receptors. Issues Addressed: Roadway safety concerns; pedestrian/bicyclist mobility; emergency vehicle access; and pavement preservation Project Benefits: Improved motor vehicle, pedestrian, bicyclist safety conditions; pedestrian/bicyclist access to activity centers; enhanced night time driving conditions; and improved pavement conditions Funding Sources: Tribal Transportation Program (TTP); Surface Transportation Program (STP); Federal Lands Transportation Program (FLTP); Transportation Alternative Program (TAP); Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP) Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 122 Project #ST-14. N112: N7 Intersection to Northern Study Boundary Route Name: N112 Section Number: 70 Project Location: N7 Intersection to Northern Study Boundary Project Mileage: 0.35 miles Existing Conditions: Existing and Future Developments Served: • • • • • Existing and Projected Traffic Conditions: • Existing ADT: 169 • 2018 ADT: 186 Project Description: Improvement Roadway Striping (0.35 mi) Environmental Overview: Number of Lanes: One lane in each, each lane approximately 12 FT wide Functional Classification: Rural Major Collector Speed Limit: 35 MPH Surrounding land use is designated for grazing No developments are currently planned Existing LOS: A 2018 LOS: A Average Daily Traffic (ADT) refers to a roadway's total traffic volume during a 24-hour period. Level of Service (LOS) is measurement of traffic congestion. LOS is expressed using letters "A" through "F" , with LOS A representing free flow conditions and LOS F representing failed conditions. Issues Addressed: Cost Estimate Purpose/Benefit $1,750 Improve lane visibility; Enhance safety May have impacts to wetlands and biological resources in area. Consideration should be given to impacts on cultural resources. Roadway safety concerns Project Benefits: Improved roadway safety conditions Funding Sources: Tribal Transportation Program (TTP); Federal Lands Transportation Program (FLTP) Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 123 Project #ST-15. N112/N7 Intersection Intersection Name: N112/N7 BIA Route/Section Number: N112: 66,70 N7:120,115 Project Location: Existing and Projected Conditions: Lane Configuration Existing Projected 2018 Level of Service Volumes Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 124 Project #ST-15. N112/N7 Intersection (Continued) Project Description: Improvement Pavement Restriping of Travel Lanes and to Include Pedestrian Crosswalks Add Turn Lanes on N112 - Northbound and Southbound Add Left Turn Lane on N7 - Westbound Environmental Overview: Issues Addressed: Cost Estimate $5,000 Purpose/Benefit Improve roadway and pedestrian safety conditions; Improve intersection traffic operations and safety conditions Improvements do not need additional right-of-way; therefore environmental impacts will be limited. Consideration should be given to impacts on wetlands, biological resources, and cultural resources. Intersection traffic operations; pedestrian safety; and intersection safety conditions Project Benefits: Increased roadway and pedestrian safety conditions; enhanced night time driving conditions; and increased pedestrian mobility Funding Sources: Tribal Transportation Program (TTP); Federal Lands Transportation Program (FLTP); Transportation Alternative Program (TAP); Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP); Tribal Safety Program Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 125 Project #ST-16. N12/N110 Intersection Intersection Name: N12/N110 BIA Route/Section Number: N112: 50,60 N110: 35,40 Project Location: Existing and Projected Conditions: Lane Configuration Existing Projected 2018 Level of Service Volumes Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 126 Project #ST-16. N12/N110 Intersection (Continued) Project Description: Improvement Repair Cross Slope to Improve Drainage Option 1 (No Roundabout): Upgrade traffic signal; install raised medians on N12 and N110; remove jersey barrier; reconfigure pedestrian island; construct shared use path; install pedestrian crosswalks and pedestrian crossing signals; convert entrance to Conoco Gas Station to a right-in only; pavement restriping to include exclusive turn lanes Option 2 (Roundabout): Reconfigure intersection to include a roundabout; ; remove jersey barrier; pedestrian crosswalks and sidewalks incorporated into design Environmental Overview: Issues Addressed: Cost Estimate $250,000 $350,000 Purpose/Benefit Improves drainage Enhances traffic operations; improves safety conditions; reduces turning movement conflict locations; provides safe pedestrian and bicyclist pathways and crosswalks $800,000 Enhances traffic operations; improves safety conditions; reduces turning movement conflict locations; provides safe pedestrian and bicyclist pathways and crosswalks Corridor is developed; therefore environmental impacts are minimal. Consideration should be given to impacts on flood event water surface elevations, cultural resources, utilities, and sensitive noise receptors. Intersection traffic operations; turning movement conflicts at intersection and into Conoco Gas Station; pedestrian and bicyclist mobility and access; and intersection safety conditions Project Benefits: Increased roadway and pedestrian safety conditions; traffic operations enhanced; and increased pedestrian and bicyclist mobility Funding Sources: Tribal Transportation Program (TTP); Federal Lands Transportation Program (FLTP); Transportation Alternative Program (TAP); Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP); Tribal Safety Program Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 127 Project #ST-17. N112/N110 Intersection Intersection Name: N112/N110 BIA Route/Section Number: N112: 50,60 N110: 35,40 Project Location: Existing and Projected Conditions: Lane Configuration Existing Projected 2018 Level of Service Volumes Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 128 Project #ST-17. N112/N110 Intersection (Continued) Project Description: Improvement Repair Cross Slope to Improve Drainage Option 1 (No Roundabout): Restripe the intersection to include turnlanes on N112; install traffic signal; pedestrian crosswalks and sidewalks incorporated into design Option 2 (Roundabout): Reconfigure intersection to include a roundabout; pedestrian crosswalks and sidewalks incorporated into design Environmental Overview: Issues Addressed: Cost Estimate $250,000 $350,000 Benefit Improves drainage Enhances traffic operations; improves safety conditions; provides motorist turning onto N110 exclusive left-turn lanes; provides safe pedestrian and bicyclist pathways and crosswalks $800,000 Enhances traffic operations; improves safety conditions; reduces turning movement conflict locations; provides safe pedestrian and bicyclist pathways and crosswalks Corridor is developed; therefore environmental impacts are minimal. Consideration should be given to impacts on flood event water surface elevations, cultural resources, utilities, and sensitive noise receptors. Intersection traffic operations; turning movement conflicts at intersection; pedestrian and bicyclist mobility and access; and intersection safety conditions Project Benefits: Increased roadway and pedestrian safety conditions; traffic operations enhanced; and increased pedestrian and bicyclist mobility and access Funding Sources: Tribal Transportation Program (TTP); Federal Lands Transportation Program (FLTP); Transportation Alternative Program (TAP); Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP); Tribal Safety Program Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 129 Project #ST-18. Black Canyon Drive/N110 Intersection Intersection Name: Black Canyon Drive/N110 BIA Route/Section Number: N110: 10 Project Location: Existing and Projected Conditions: Lane Configuration Existing Projected 2018 Level of Service Volumes Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 130 Project #ST-18. Black Canyon Drive/N110 Intersection (Continued) Project Description: Improvement Widen Cross-Street to Add Turn lanes and Cross-walks Environmental Overview: Issues Addressed: Cost Estimate $300,000 Benefit Enhances traffic operations; improves safety conditions; reduces turning movement conflict locations; provides safe pedestrian and bicyclist crosswalks No additional right-of-way is needed; therefore environmental impacts are minimal. Consideration should be given to impacts on flood event water surface elevations, cultural resources, utilities, and sensitive noise receptors. Turning movement conflicts at intersection; pedestrian and bicyclist mobility and access; and overall safety conditions Project Benefits: Increased roadway and pedestrian safety conditions; traffic operations enhanced; and increased pedestrian and bicyclist mobility and access Funding Sources: Tribal Transportation Program (TTP); Federal Lands Transportation Program (FLTP); Transportation Alternative Program (TAP); Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP); Tribal Safety Program Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 131 Project #ST-19. NTUA/N12 Intersection Intersection Name: NTUA/N12 Intersection BIA Route/Section Number: N12: 165 Project Location: Existing and Projected Conditions: Lane Configuration Existing Projected 2018 Level of Service Volumes Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 132 Project #ST-19. NTUA/N12 Intersection (Continued) Project Description: Improvement Widen Cross-Street to Add Turn lanes and Cross-walks Environmental Overview: Issues Addressed: Cost Estimate $300,000 Benefit Enhances traffic operations; improves safety conditions; reduces turning movement conflict locations; provides safe pedestrian and bicyclist crosswalks No additional right-of-way is needed; therefore environmental impacts are minimal. Consideration should be given to impacts on cultural resources, utilities, and noise receptors. Turning movement conflicts at intersection; pedestrian and bicyclist mobility and access; and overall safety conditions Project Benefits: Increased roadway and pedestrian safety conditions; traffic operations enhanced; and increased pedestrian and bicyclist mobility and access Funding Sources: Tribal Transportation Program (TTP); Federal Lands Transportation Program (FLTP); Transportation Alternative Program (TAP); Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP); Tribal Safety Program Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 133 Project #ST-20. Tséhootsooí Middle School/N110 Intersection Intersection Name: Tséhootsooí Middle School/N110 Intersection BIA Route/Section Number: N12: 165 Project Location: Project Description: Improvement Option 1: Install Double Chicane raised medians. Enhancement to the chicane will need to be made in the mid-term phase to include the HAWK pedestrian beacon Option 2: Install Flashing Speed Signs to warn drivers of school zone speeds Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Cost Estimate $100,000 Purpose/Benefit Forces drivers to slow speeds $80,000 Increase driver awareness of school zone Final Report 134 Project #ST--20. Tséhootsooí Middle School/N110 Intersection (Continued) Project Description: Improvement Option 3: Install Rumble Strips to warn drivers of school zone speeds Cost Estimate $4,000 Purpose/Benefit Alerts drivers of changing speed conditions Option 4: Install Speed Limit Pavement Markings on road to warn drivers of school zone speeds $1,500 Alerts drivers of changing speed conditions Option 5: Install Speed Bump or Speed Table to warn drivers of school zone speeds $10,000 Alerts drivers of changing speed conditions Environmental Overview: Issues Addressed: Corridor is partially developed; therefore environmental impacts are minimal. Consideration should be given to impacts on cultural resources, utilities, and sensitive noise receptors. High travel speeds in school zones; pedestrian and bicyclist safety; pedestrian and bicyclist mobility and access; and overall safety conditions Project Benefits: Increased roadway and pedestrian safety conditions; enhanced traffic operations; and increased pedestrian and bicyclist mobility and access Funding Sources: Tribal Transportation Program (TTP); Tribal Safety Program; Federal Lands Transportation Program (FLTP); Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP); Section 402 State and Community Highway; TAP - Safe Routes to School Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 135 Project #ST-21. Window Rock High School/N12 Intersection Intersection Name: Window Rock High School/N12 Intersection BIA Route/Section Number: N12: 170 Project Location: Window Rock High School/N12 Intersection Project Description: Improvement Option 1: Install Double Chicane raised medians. Enhancement to the chicane will need to be made in the mid-term phase to include the HAWK pedestrian beacon Option 2: Install Flashing Speed Signs to warn drivers of school zone speeds Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Cost Estimate $100,000 Purpose/Benefit Forces drivers to slow speeds $80,000 Increase driver awareness of school zone Final Report 136 Project #ST-21. Window Rock High School/N12 Intersection (Continued) Project Description: Improvement Option 3: Install Rumble Strips to warn drivers of school zone speeds Cost Estimate $4,000 Purpose/Benefit Alerts drivers of changing speed conditions Option 4: Install Speed Limit Pavement Markings on road to warn drivers of school zone speeds $1,500 Alerts drivers of changing speed conditions Option 5: Install Speed Bump or Speed Table to warn drivers of school zone speeds $10,000 Alerts drivers of changing speed conditions Environmental Overview: Issues Addressed: Corridor is partially developed; therefore environmental impacts are minimal. Consideration should be given to impacts on cultural resources, utilities, and sensitive noise receptors. High travel speeds in school zones; turning movement conflicts; pedestrian and bicyclist safety; pedestrian and bicyclist mobility and access; and overall safety conditions Project Benefits: Increased roadway and pedestrian safety conditions; enhanced traffic operations; and increased pedestrian and bicyclist mobility and access Funding Sources: Tribal Transportation Program (TTP); Tribal Safety Program; Federal Lands Transportation Program (FLTP); Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP); Section 402 State and Community Highway; TAP - Safe Routes to School Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 137 Project #ST-22. Tséhootsooí Elementary School/N7 Intersection Intersection Name: Tséhootsooí Elementary School/N7 Intersection BIA Route/Section Number: N12: 150 Project Location: Project Description: Improvement Option 1: Install Double Chicane raised medians. Enhancement to the chicane will need to be made in the mid-term phase to include the HAWK pedestrian beacon Option 2: Install Flashing Speed Signs to warn drivers of school zone speeds Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Cost Estimate $100,000 Purpose/Benefit Forces drivers to slow speeds $80,000 Increase driver awareness of school zone Final Report 138 Project #ST-22. Tséhootsooí Elementary School/N7 Intersection (Continued) Project Description: Improvement Option 3: Install Rumble Strips to warn drivers of school zone speeds Cost Estimate $4,000 Purpose/Benefit Alerts drivers of changing speed conditions Option 4: Install Speed Limit Pavement Markings on road to warn drivers of school zone speeds $1,500 Alerts drivers of changing speed conditions Option 5: Install Speed Bump or Speed Table to warn drivers of school zone speeds $10,000 Alerts drivers of changing speed conditions Environmental Overview: Issues Addressed: Corridor is partially developed; therefore environmental impacts are minimal. Consideration should be given to impacts on cultural resources, utilities, and sensitive noise receptors. High travel speeds in school zones; pedestrian and bicyclist safety; pedestrian and bicyclist mobility and access; and overall safety conditions Project Benefits: Increased roadway and pedestrian safety conditions; enhanced traffic operations; and increased pedestrian and bicyclist mobility and access Funding Sources: Tribal Transportation Program (TTP); Tribal Safety Program; Federal Lands Transportation Program (FLTP); Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP); Section 402 State and Community Highway; TAP - Safe Routes to School Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 139 Project #ST-23. Entrance to Town - Southbound N12 Route Name: N12 Section Number: N12: 180, 185 Project Location: Project Description: Improvement Option 1: Install Flashing Speed Signs to warn drivers of reduced speed limit Option 2: Install Rumble Strips to warn drivers of reduced speed limit Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Cost Estimate $80,000 Purpose/Benefit Increase driver awareness of speed limit $4,000 Alerts drivers of changing speed conditions Final Report 140 Project #ST-23. Entrance to Town - Southbound N12 Project Description: Improvement Option 3: Install Speed Limit Pavement Markings on road to warn drivers of reduced speed limit Option 4: Install Speed Bump or Speed Table to warn drivers of reduced speeds Environmental Overview: Issues Addressed: Cost Estimate $1,500 Purpose/Benefit Alerts drivers of changing speed conditions $10,000 Alerts drivers of changing speed conditions Corridor is partially developed; therefore environmental impacts are minimal. Consideration should be given to impacts on cultural resources, utilities, and sensitive noise receptors. High travel speeds; pedestrian and bicyclist safety; pedestrian and bicyclist mobility and access; and overall safety conditions Project Benefits: Increased roadway and pedestrian safety conditions; traffic operations enhanced; and increased pedestrian and bicyclist mobility and access Funding Sources: Tribal Transportation Program (TTP); Tribal Safety Program; Federal Lands Transportation Program (FLTP); Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP); Section 402 State and Community Highway Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 141 Project #ST-24. Entrance to Town - Northbound N12 Route Name: N12 Section Number: N12: 130, 150 Project Location: Project Description: Improvement Option 1: Install Flashing Speed Signs to warn drivers of reduced speed limit Option 2: Install Rumble Strips to warn drivers of reduced speed limit Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Cost Estimate $80,000 Purpose/Benefit Increase driver awareness of speed limit $4,000 Alerts drivers of changing speed conditions Final Report 142 Project #ST-24. Entrance to Town - Northbound N12 Project Description: Improvement Option 3: Install Speed Limit Pavement Markings on road to warn drivers of reduced speed limit Option 4: Install Speed Bump or Speed Table to warn drivers of reduced speeds Environmental Overview: Issues Addressed: Cost Estimate $1,500 Purpose/Benefit Alerts drivers of changing speed conditions $10,000 Alerts drivers of changing speed conditions Corridor is partially developed; therefore environmental impacts are minimal. Consideration should be given to impacts on cultural resources, utilities, and sensitive noise receptors. High travel speeds; pedestrian and bicyclist safety; pedestrian and bicyclist mobility and access; and overall safety conditions Project Benefits: Increased roadway and pedestrian safety conditions; enhanced traffic operations; and increased pedestrian and bicyclist mobility and access Funding Sources: Tribal Transportation Program (TTP); Tribal Safety Program; Federal Lands Transportation Program (FLTP); Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP); Section 402 State and Community Highway Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 143 Project #ST-25. Entrance to Town - Northbound N112 Route Name: N112 Section Number: N112: 35,50 Project Location: Project Description: Improvement Option 1: Install Flashing Speed Signs to warn drivers of reduced speed limit Option 2: Install Rumble Strips to warn drivers of reduced speed limit Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Cost Estimate $80,000 Purpose/Benefit Increase driver awareness of speed limit $4,000 Alerts drivers of changing speed conditions Final Report 144 Project #ST-25. Entrance to Town - Northbound N112 Project Description: Improvement Option 3: Install Speed Limit Pavement Markings on road to warn drivers of reduced speed limit Option 4: Install Speed Bump or Speed Table to warn drivers of reduced speeds Environmental Overview: Issues Addressed: Cost Estimate $1,500 Purpose/Benefit Alerts drivers of changing speed conditions $10,000 Alerts drivers of changing speed conditions Corridor is partially developed; therefore environmental impacts are minimal. Consideration should be given to impacts on cultural resources, utilities, and sensitive noise receptors. High travel speeds; pedestrian and bicyclist safety; pedestrian and bicyclist mobility and access; and overall safety conditions Project Benefits: Increased roadway and pedestrian safety conditions; enhanced traffic operations; and increased pedestrian and bicyclist mobility and access Funding Sources: Tribal Transportation Program (TTP); Tribal Safety Program; Federal Lands Transportation Program (FLTP); Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP); Section 402 State and Community Highway Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 145 Project #ST-26. Secondary Entrance to Window Rock High School Sports Stadium Route Name: Local Tribal Roadway Section Number: Not Applicable Project Location: Project Description: Improvement Option 1a: Construct an alternate entrance/exit to the Stadium by extending Window Rock High School Road south for 0.14 miles to entrance currently in construction Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Cost Estimate $126,000 Purpose/Benefit Provides additional access to the Stadium; relieves congestion on N12 Final Report 146 Project #ST-26. Entrance to Window Rock High School Sports Stadium(Continued) Project Description: Improvement Option 1b: Construct an alternate entrance/exit to the Stadium by extending Window Rock High School Road to southern boundary Option 2: Construct an alternate entrance/exit to the Stadium by extending Industrial Area roadway to the Stadium Environmental Overview: Issues Addressed: Project Benefits: Funding Sources: Cost Estimate $225,000 Purpose/Benefit Provides additional access to the Stadium; relieves congestion on N12 $207,500 Provides additional access to the Stadium; relieves congestion on N12 Area is current developed; therefore environmental impacts are minimal. Consideration should be given to impacts on cultural resources, utilities, and sensitive noise receptors. Traffic congestion on N12; alternative access routes to the Stadium; special event congestion and travel flow; and overall safety conditions Additional entrance/exit points during special events; alternative routes; and traffic operations on N12 enhanced Tribal Transportation Program (TTP); Tribal Safety Program; Federal Lands Transportation Program (FLTP); Indian Community Development Block Grant Program; Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP) Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 147 Mid-Term (2023) Improvements Mid-term phase projects are recommended to be completed as the study area reaches year 2023. Table 8.2 presents a comprehensive list of the transportation recommendations for this phase, as well as the project number, location, description, estimated costs, and potential funding sources for each project. Each project is assigned a unique project number that can be used to track project progress. Planning level cost estimates were developed based on typical per-mile/foot construction costs in 2013. Unless otherwise noted, the recommended projects are not yet funded. Chapter 10 of this report outlines detailed funding source information and guidelines. Estimated costs for each project are expressed in 2013 dollars and do not include materials or labor. Actual costs for projects could vary at the time of implementation; therefore, a detailed Table 8.2. Mid-Term Recommendations ID MT-1 Project Location and Description N7: N12 Intersection to Tséhootsooí Elementary School Upgrade corridor to provide safe access for pedestrians and bicyclists • Construct Narrow Asphalt Shared Use Path – Eastbound (0.41 mi) Cost $82,000 MT-2 N7: Tséhootsooí Elementary School to N112 Intersection Upgrade corridor to provide safe access for pedestrians and bicyclists • Construct Narrow Asphalt Shared Use Path – Eastbound (1.14 mi) • Replace Bridge: Add Pedestrian Walkway N7: N112 Intersection to Western Study Boundary Upgrade corridor to improve roadway safety conditions • Repair Existing Fencing • Install Lighting • Add 4" Wide Landscape Buffer $685,200 MT-4 N12: Southern Study Boundary to N110 Intersection Replace structurally deficient bridge $480,000 MT-5 N12: N54 Intersection to Window Rock High School Upgrade corridor to provide safe access for pedestrians and bicyclists • Construct Extra-Wide Asphalt Shared Use Path – Southbound (1.12 mi) N12: Window Rock High School to N7 Intersection Upgrade corridor to provide safe access for pedestrians and bicyclists • Construct Extra-Wide Asphalt Shared Use Path – Southbound (0.47 mi) N110: N112 Intersection to Western Study Boundary Upgrade corridor to provide safe access for pedestrians and bicyclists • Construct Narrow Asphalt Shared Use Path – Westbound (1.17 mi) N112: Southern Study Boundary to Old Crystal Road Upgrade corridor to provide safe access for pedestrians and bicyclists • Construct Narrow Asphalt Shared Use Path – Westbound (0.81 mi) $252,000 MT-3 MT-6 MT-7 MT-8 Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study $75,450 $105,750 $351,000 $145,800 Final Report 148 Table 8.2. Mid-Term Roadway Recommendations (Continued) ID MT-9 MT-10 MT -11 MT -12 MT -13 MT -14 Project Location and Description N112: Old Crystal Road to N7 Intersection Upgrade corridor to provide safe access for pedestrians and bicyclists • Construct Narrow Asphalt Share Use Path – Northbound (0.62 mi) N112: N7 Intersection to Northern Study Boundary Upgrade corridor to improve roadway safety conditions • Pavement Preservation – Structural Overlay (0.35 mi) • Install New Fencing • Install Cattle Guards (4) • Install Lighting • Add 4" Wide Landscape Buffer • Add Unpaved Shoulders Tséhootsooí Middle School/N110 Intersection Upgrade chicane installed during the short-term phase o include a HAWK pedestrian beacon Cost $111,600 Window Rock High School/N12 Intersection Upgrade chicane installed during the short-term phase o include a HAWK pedestrian beacon Tséhootsooí Elementary School/N7 Intersection Upgrade chicane installed during the short-term phase o include a HAWK pedestrian beacon Multi-Use Trail Construct a multi-use path to increase pedestrian and bicyclist mobility, encourage recreation activities; and to ultimately connect with neighboring communities • Develop multi-use trail from Black Creek from the Southern Study Boundary to Window Rock High School $100,000 $313,150 $100,000 $100,000 $160,000 Project Descriptions for Mid-Term Improvements The following section presents specific improvement project information for projects identified for implementation during the mid-term phase. Each project is profiled for ease of reference to pertinent information that may enable decision makers and funding agencies to quickly understand the need for their implementation. Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 149 Project #MT-1. N7: N12 Intersection to Tséhootsooí Elementary School Route Name: N7 Section Number: 155, 150 Project Location: N12 Intersection to Tséhootsooí Elementary School Project Mileage: 0.41 miles Existing Conditions: • • • • • Existing and Future Developments Served: Existing and Projected Traffic Conditions: Number of Lanes: One lane in each direction, each lane approximately 12 FT wide Functional Classification: Rural Minor Arterial Speed Limit: 30 MPH; 15 MPH school zone approaching Tséhootsooí Elementary School Education and Health land use types are located along the northern portion of the corridor Future NTUA complex, elderly center, government buildings along the northern portion; retail and IHS housing along southern portion • Existing ADT: 5,014 Existing LOS: C • 2018 ADT: 5,515 2018 LOS: C Average Daily Traffic (ADT) refers to a roadway's total traffic volume during a 24-hour period. Level of Service (LOS) is measurement of traffic congestion. LOS is expressed using letters "A" through "F" , with LOS A representing free flow conditions and LOS F representing failed conditions. Project Description: Improvement Cost Estimate Purpose/Benefit $82,000 Pedestrian/Bicyclist mobility Construct Asphalt Share Use Path – Eastbound (0.41 mi) Corridor is partially developed; therefore environmental impacts are minimal. Consideration Environmental Overview: should be given to impacts on biological and cultural resources, utilities, and noise receptors. Issues Addressed: Pedestrian/bicyclist mobility Project Benefits: Increased pedestrian and bicyclist safety conditions; and pedestrian/bicyclist access to N12 Funding Sources: Tribal Transportation Program (TTP); Surface Transportation Program (STP); Federal Lands Transportation Program (FLTP); Transportation Alternative Program (TAP); TAP - Safe Routes to School; Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP) Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 150 Project #MT-2. N7: Tséhootsooí Elementary School to N112 Intersection Route Name: N7 Section Number: 146, 140, 130, 120 Project Location: Tséhootsooí Elementary School to N112 Intersection Project Mileage: 1.14 miles Existing Conditions: • • • • Existing and Future Developments Served: Existing and Projected Traffic Conditions: Number of Lanes: One lane in each direction, each lane approximately 12 FT wide Functional Classification: Rural Minor Arterial Speed Limit: 30 MPH; 15 MPH school zone approaching Tséhootsooí Elementary School South of N7 is classified as agriculture, rural single family residential land use. North side of N7 is designated as grazing • Future retail and college along the south side; Government buildings north of Tséhootsooí Elementary School • Existing ADT: 2,305 Existing LOS: B • 2018 ADT: 2,536 2018 LOS: B Average Daily Traffic (ADT) refers to a roadway's total traffic volume during a 24-hour period. Level of Service (LOS) is measurement of traffic congestion. LOS is expressed using letters "A" through "F" , with LOS A representing free flow conditions and LOS F representing failed conditions. Project Description: Improvement Cost Estimate Benefit Construct Narrow Asphalt Shared Use Path – Westbound (0.60 mi) $480,000 Pedestrian/Bicyclist mobility Pedestrian/Bicyclist mobility Replace Bridge: Add Pedestrian Walkway $205,200 Environmental Overview: May have impacts to wetlands and biological resources in area. Consideration should be given to impacts on cultural resources. Issues Addressed: Pedestrian/bicyclist mobility Project Benefits: Increased pedestrian and bicyclist safety conditions; and pedestrian/bicyclist access to N112 Funding Sources: Tribal Transportation Program (TTP); Tribal Bridge Program; Surface Transportation Program (STP); Federal Lands Transportation Program (FLTP); Transportation Alternative Program (TAP); Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP) Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 151 Project #MT-3. N7: N112 Intersection to Western Study Boundary Route Name: N7 Section Number: 115 Project Location: N112 Intersection to Western Study Boundary Project Mileage: 0.61 miles Existing Conditions: Existing and Future Developments Served: • Number of Lanes: One lane eastbound, two lanes westbound; each lane approximately 12 FT wide • Functional Classification: Rural Minor Arterial • Speed Limit: 55 MPH • South of N7 is classified as agriculture, rural single family residential land use. North side of N7 is designated as grazing Existing and Projected Traffic Conditions: • Existing ADT: 877 • 2018 ADT: 965 Existing LOS: A 2018 LOS: A Average Daily Traffic (ADT) refers to a roadway's total traffic volume during a 24-hour period. Level of Service (LOS) is measurement of traffic congestion. LOS is expressed using letters "A" through "F" , with LOS A representing free flow conditions and LOS F representing failed conditions. Project Description: Improvement Repair Fencing (0.61 mi) Cost Estimate $27,450 Benefit Restrict livestock from entering right-of-way Install Lighting $30,500 Improve visibility and safety Issues Addressed: Increase pedestrian safety; drainage $17,500 May have impacts to wetlands and biological resources in area. Consideration should be given to impacts on cultural resources. Roadway safety conditions Project Benefits: Increased roadway safety condition and improved nighttime visibility Funding Sources: Tribal Transportation Program (TTP); Federal Lands Transportation Program (FLTP); Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP) Add 4" Wide Landscape Buffer Environmental Overview: Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 152 Project #MT-4. N12: Southern Study Boundary to N110 Intersection Route Name: N12 Section Number: 140, 150 Project Location: Southern Study Boundary to N110 Intersection Project Mileage: 0.18 miles Existing Conditions: Existing and Future Developments Served: • Number of Lanes: Two lanes in each direction with center turn lane, each lane approximately 12-14 FT wide • Functional Classification: Section 140: Major Arterial Section 150: Rural Minor Arterial • Speed Limit: 35 MPH • The western portion of N12 is designated as residential, while the eastern portion of the corridor is designated commercial. Existing and Projected Traffic Conditions: • Existing ADT: 13,061 Existing LOS: B • 2018 ADT: 14,367 2018 LOS: B Project Description: Improvement Bridge Replacement Environmental Overview: Average Daily Traffic (ADT) refers to a roadway's total traffic volume during a 24-hour period. Level of Service (LOS) is measurement of traffic congestion. LOS is expressed using letters "A" through "F" , with LOS A representing free flow conditions and LOS F representing failed conditions. Issues Addressed: Cost Estimate Benefit $480,000 Structurally sufficient bridge Corridor is developed; therefore environmental impacts are minimal. Consideration should be given to impacts on flood event water surface elevations, cultural resources, utilities, and sensitive noise receptors. Safety conditions and structurally integrity of bridge Project Benefits: Increased safety conditions Funding Sources: Tribal Bridge Program Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 153 Project #MT-5. N12: N54 Intersection to Window Rock High School Route Name: N12 Section Number: 160, 165 Project Location: N54 Intersection to Window Rock High School Project Mileage: 1.12 miles Existing Conditions: • Number of Lanes: Two lanes in each direction with center turn lane, each lane approximately 12-14 FT wide • Functional Classification: Rural Minor Arterial • Speed Limit: 35 MPH; 15 MPH school zone approaching Window Rock High School • Land use designations along the corridor include single family residential, agriculture, residential, religion, utility, and government • Future expansion of housing for school employees southeast of Window Rock High School • Existing ADT: 11,292 Existing LOS: B • 2018 ADT: 12,421 2018 LOS: B Existing and Future Developments Served: Existing and Projected Traffic Conditions: Average Daily Traffic (ADT) refers to a roadway's total traffic volume during a 24-hour period. Level of Service (LOS) is measurement of traffic congestion. LOS is expressed using letters "A" through "F" , with LOS A representing free flow conditions and LOS F representing failed conditions. Project Description: Improvement Cost Estimate Benefit Construct Extra-Wide Asphalt Shared Use Path$252,000 Pedestrian/Bicyclist mobility Southbound (1.12 mi) Corridor is developed; therefore environmental impacts are minimal. Consideration should be Environmental Overview: given to impacts on cultural resources, utilities, and noise receptors.. Issues Addressed: Pedestrian/bicyclist mobility Project Benefits: Increased pedestrian and bicyclist safety conditions and pedestrian/bicyclist access to activity centers Funding Sources: Tribal Transportation Program (TTP) ; Surface Transportation Program (STP) Federal Lands Transportation Program (FLTP); Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP); TAP- Safe Routes to School Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 154 Project #MT-6. N12: Window Rock High School to N7 Intersection Route Name: N12 Section Number: 170, 180 Project Location: Window Rock High School to N7 Intersection Project Mileage: 0.47 miles Existing Conditions: • Number of Lanes: Two lanes in each direction with center turn lane • Functional Classification: Rural Minor Arterial • Speed Limit: 35 MPH; 15 MPH school zone approaching Window Rock High School • Eastern side of corridor is designated as residential and education, while the western portion is designated as grazing • Future retail and college as well as additional IHS housing in northwestern portion • Existing ADT: 7,524 Existing LOS: A • 2018 ADT: 10,276 2018 LOS: B Existing and Future Developments Served: Existing and Projected Traffic Conditions: Average Daily Traffic (ADT) refers to a roadway's total traffic volume during a 24-hour period. Level of Service (LOS) is measurement of traffic congestion. LOS is expressed using letters "A" through "F" , with LOS A representing free flow conditions and LOS F representing failed conditions. Project Description: Improvement Cost Estimate Benefit Construct Extra-Wide Asphalt Shared Use Path- Southbound $105,750 Pedestrian/Bicyclist mobility (0.47 mi) Corridor is partially developed; therefore environmental impacts are minimal. Consideration Environmental Overview: should be given to impacts on cultural resources, utilities, and sensitive noise receptors. Issues Addressed: Pedestrian/bicyclist mobility Project Benefits: Increased pedestrian and bicyclist safety conditions and pedestrian/bicyclist access to activity centers and residential areas Funding Sources: Tribal Transportation Program (TTP) ; Surface Transportation Program (STP) Federal Lands Transportation Program (FLTP); Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP); TAP- Safe Routes to School Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 155 Project #MT-7. N110: N112 Intersection to Western Study Boundary Route Name: N110 Section Number: 40, 43, 46, 50, 55 Project Location: N112 Intersection to Western Study Boundary Project Mileage: 1.17 miles Existing Conditions: • Number of Lanes: Two lanes in each direction with a center turn lane, each lane approximately 12-14 FT wide • Functional Classification: Rural Minor Arterial • Speed Limit: 35 MPH • Land use designations include police/fire, medium density residential, rural single family residential, public facility/institutional, and government • Future office complex at northwest corner of N110/N112, Old Downtown redevelopment, and medical school in the vicinity of old hospital area • Existing ADT: 2,903 Existing LOS: B • 2018 ADT: 3,193 2018 LOS: B Existing and Future Developments Served: Existing and Projected Traffic Conditions: Average Daily Traffic (ADT) refers to a roadway's total traffic volume during a 24-hour period. Level of Service (LOS) is measurement of traffic congestion. LOS is expressed using letters "A" through "F" , with LOS A representing free flow conditions and LOS F representing failed conditions. Project Description: Improvement Cost Estimate Benefit Construct Concrete Shared Use Path – Westbound $351,000 Pedestrian/Bicyclist mobility (1.17 mi) Corridor is developed; therefore environmental impacts are minimal. Consideration should be Environmental Overview: given to impacts on cultural resources, utilities, and sensitive noise receptors. Issues Addressed: Pedestrian/bicyclist mobility Project Benefits: Increased pedestrian and bicyclist safety conditions; pedestrian/bicyclist access to activity centers and residential areas; downtown redevelopment Funding Sources: Tribal Transportation Program (TTP) ; Surface Transportation Program (STP) Federal Lands Transportation Program (FLTP); Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP) Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 156 Project #MT-8. N112: Southern Study Boundary to Old Crystal Road Route Name: N112 Section Number: 50 Project Location: Southern Study Boundary to Old Crystal Road Project Mileage: 0.81 miles Existing Conditions: • Number of Lanes: One lane in each, each lane approximately 12 FT wide • Functional Classification: Rural Minor Arterial • Speed Limit: 35 MPH • Land use designations include government, public facility/institutional, rural single family Existing and Future residential, and agriculture Developments Served: • Future residential redevelopment south of Forth Defiance Chapter House as well as office complex at the northwest corner of N112/N110 Existing and Projected Traffic • Existing ADT: 3,138 Existing LOS: B • 2018 ADT: 3,452 2018 LOS: B Conditions: Average Daily Traffic (ADT) refers to a roadway's total traffic volume during a 24-hour period. Level of Service (LOS) is measurement of traffic congestion. LOS is expressed using letters "A" through "F" , with LOS A representing free flow conditions and LOS F representing failed conditions. Project Description: Improvement Cost Estimate Benefit Construct Narrow Asphalt Shared Use Path – Northbound $145,800 Pedestrian/Bicyclist mobility (0.81 mi) Corridor is developed; therefore environmental impacts are minimal. Consideration should be Environmental Overview: given to impacts on cultural resources, utilities, and noise receptors. Issues Addressed: Pedestrian/bicyclist mobility Project Benefits: Increased pedestrian and bicyclist safety conditions and pedestrian/bicyclist access to activity centers and residential areas Funding Sources: Tribal Transportation Program (TTP) ; Surface Transportation Program (STP) Federal Lands Transportation Program (FLTP); Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP) Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 157 Project #MT-9. N112: Old Crystal Road to N7 Intersection Route Name: N112 Section Number: 60, 63, 66 Project Location: Old Crystal Road to N7 Intersection Project Mileage: 0.62 miles Existing Conditions: • • • • • Existing and Future Developments Served: Number of Lanes: One lane in each, each lane approximately 12 FT wide Functional Classification: Rural Minor Arterial Speed Limit: 35 MPH The corridor is bounded by rural single family residential land use. No developments are currently planned Existing and Projected Traffic • Existing ADT: 2,714 • 2018 ADT: 2,985 Conditions: Existing LOS: B 2018 LOS: B Average Daily Traffic (ADT) refers to a roadway's total traffic volume during a 24-hour period. Level of Service (LOS) is measurement of traffic congestion. LOS is expressed using letters "A" through "F" , with LOS A representing free flow conditions and LOS F representing failed conditions. Project Description: Improvement Cost Estimate Benefit Pedestrian/Bicyclist mobility Construct Narrow Asphalt Share Use Path – Northbound (0.62 mi) $111,600 Corridor is developed; therefore environmental impacts are minimal. Consideration should be Environmental Overview: given to impacts on cultural resources, utilities, and noise receptors. Issues Addressed: Pedestrian/bicyclist mobility Project Benefits: Increased pedestrian and bicyclist safety conditions and pedestrian/bicyclist access activity centers and residential areas Funding Sources: Tribal Transportation Program (TTP) ; Surface Transportation Program (STP) Federal Lands Transportation Program (FLTP); Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP) Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 158 Project #MT-10. N112: N7 Intersection to Northern Study Boundary Route Name: N112 Section Number: 70 Project Location: N7 Intersection to Northern Study Boundary Project Mileage: 0.50 miles Existing Conditions: Existing and Future Developments Served: • • • • • Existing and Projected Traffic Conditions: • Existing ADT: 169 • 2018 ADT: 186 Number of Lanes: One lane in each, each lane approximately 12 FT wide Functional Classification: Rural Major Collector Speed Limit: 35 MPH Surrounding land use is designated for grazing No developments are currently planned Existing LOS: A 2018 LOS: A Average Daily Traffic (ADT) refers to a roadway's total traffic volume during a 24-hour period. Level of Service (LOS) is measurement of traffic congestion. LOS is expressed using letters "A" through "F" , with LOS A representing free flow conditions and LOS F representing failed conditions. Project Description: Improvement Pavement Preservation – Structural Overlay (0.35 mi) Install New Fencing Cost Estimate $210,000 $34,650 Benefit Improve safety conditions Restrict livestock from entering right-of-way Install Cattle Guards (4) $20,000 Restrict livestock from entering right-of-way Install Lighting $17,500 Improve visibility and safety Add 4" Wide Landscape Buffer $10,000 Drainage Issues Addressed: Provide safe area for vehicles to pull over $21,000 May have impacts to wetlands and biological resources in area. Consideration should be given to impacts on cultural resources. Roadway safety conditions; emergency vehicle access; and pavement conditions Project Benefits: Increased roadway safety condition and improved pavement conditions Funding Sources: Tribal Transportation Program (TTP); Federal Lands Transportation Program (FLTP); Transportation Alternative Program (TAP); Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP) Add Shoulders Environmental Overview: Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 159 Project #MT-11. Tséhootsooí Middle School/N110 Intersection Intersection Name: Tséhootsooí Middle School/N110 Intersection BIA Route/Section Number: N12: 165 Project Location: Project Description: Improvement Upgrade chicane installed during the short-term phase o include a HAWK pedestrian beacon Environmental Overview: Issues Addressed: Project Benefits: Cost Estimate $100,000 Benefit Forces drivers to slow speeds No additional right-of-way is needed; therefore environmental impacts are minimal. Consideration should be given to impacts on cultural resources, utilities, and sensitive noise receptors. High travel speeds in school zones; pedestrian and bicyclist safety; pedestrian and bicyclist mobility and access; and overall safety conditions Increased roadway and pedestrian safety conditions and increased pedestrian and bicyclist mobility and access Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 160 Project # MT-12. Window Rock High School/N12 Intersection Intersection Name: Window Rock High School/N12 Intersection BIA Route/Section Number: N12: 170 Project Location: Window Rock High School/N12 Intersection Project Description: Improvement Upgrade chicane installed during the short-term phase o include a HAWK pedestrian beacon Environmental Overview: Issues Addressed: Cost Estimate $100,000 Benefit Forces drivers to slow speeds No additional right-of-way is needed; therefore environmental impacts are minimal. Consideration should be given to impacts on cultural resources, utilities, and sensitive noise receptors. High travel speeds in school zones; pedestrian and bicyclist safety; pedestrian and bicyclist mobility and access; and overall safety conditions Project Benefits: Increased roadway and pedestrian safety conditions and increased pedestrian and bicyclist mobility and access Funding Sources: Tribal Transportation Program (TTP); Tribal Safety Program; Federal Lands Transportation Program (FLTP); Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP); Section 402 State and Community Highway; TAP - Safe Routes to School Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 161 Project # MT-13. Tséhootsooí Elementary School/N7 Intersection Intersection Name: Tséhootsooí Elementary School/N7 Intersection BIA Route/Section Number: N12: 150 Project Location: Project Description: Improvement Upgrade chicane installed during the short-term phase o include a HAWK pedestrian beacon Environmental Overview: Issues Addressed: Project Benefits: Cost Estimate $100,000 Benefit Forces drivers to slow speeds No additional right-of-way is needed; therefore environmental impacts are minimal. Consideration should be given to impacts on cultural resources, utilities, and sensitive noise receptors. High travel speeds in school zones; pedestrian and bicyclist safety; pedestrian and bicyclist mobility and access; and overall safety conditions Increased roadway and pedestrian safety conditions and increased pedestrian and bicyclist mobility and access Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 162 Project #MT-14. Multi-Use Trail Route Name: Not Applicable Section Number: Not Applicable Project Location: Project Mileage: ~1.60 miles Existing and Future Developments Served: • Surrounding land use is designated for grazing • No developments are currently planned Project Description: Construct a multi-use path to increase pedestrian and bicyclist mobility, encourage recreation activities; and to ultimately connect with neighboring communities Improvement Cost Estimate Benefit Develop multi-use trail from Black Creek from the Southern $160,000 Pedestrian/Bicyclist mobility and access Study Boundary to Window Rock High School (~1.6 miles) May have impacts to wetlands, flood event water surface elevations, cultural resources , and Environmental Overview: biological resources in area. Issues Addressed: Lack of pedestrian, bicyclist, and trail recreational activity areas Project Benefits: Increase pedestrian and bicyclist mobility, encourage recreation activities; and to ultimately connect with neighboring communities Funding Sources: Surface Transportation Program (STP); Transportation Alternative Program (TAP); TAP = Recreation Trails Program (RTP) Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 163 Long-Term (2033) Improvements Long-term phase projects are recommended to be completed as the study area reaches year 2033. Table 8.3 presents a comprehensive list of the transportation recommendations for this phase, as well as the project number, location, description, estimated costs, and potential funding sources for each project. Each project is assigned a unique project number that can be used to track project progress. Planning level cost estimates were developed based on typical per-mile/foot construction costs in 2013. Unless otherwise noted, the recommended projects are not yet funded. Chapter 10 of this report outlines detailed funding source information and guidelines. Estimated costs for each project are expressed in 2013 dollars and do not include materials or labor. Actual costs for projects could vary at the time of implementation; therefore, a detailed Table 8.3. Long-Term Recommendations ID LT-1 Project Location and Description N7: Tséhootsooí Elementary School to N112 Intersection Upgrade corridor to provide safe access for pedestrians and bicyclists • Construct Narrow Asphalt Shared Use Path – Eastbound (0.60 mi) Cost $205,200 LT-2 N7: N112 Intersection to Western Study Boundary Upgrade corridor to provide safe access for pedestrians and bicyclists • Construct Narrow Asphalt Shared Use Path – Eastbound (0.61 mi) • Construct Narrow Asphalt Shared Use Path – Westbound (0.61 mi) $219,600 LT-3 N110: N112 Intersection to Western Study Boundary Upgrade corridor to provide safe access for pedestrians and bicyclists and improve roadway conditions • Pave 0.2 Miles of Unpaved Roadway • Construct Concrete Shared Use Path – Westbound (1.17 mi) $468,000 LT-4 N112: N7 Intersection to Northern Study Boundary Upgrade corridor to provide safe access for pedestrians and bicyclists and improve roadway conditions • Construct Narrow Asphalt Shared Use Path – Eastbound (0.50 mi) • Construct Narrow Asphalt Shared Use Path – Westbound (0.50 mi) • Pave 0.15 Miles of Unpaved Roadway $300,000 LT-5 Multi-Use Trail Construct a multi-use path to increase pedestrian and bicyclist mobility, encourage recreation activities; and to ultimately connect with neighboring communities • Develop multi-use trail along remaining portion of Black Creek within the Study Area $250,000 Project Descriptions for Long-Term Improvements The following section presents specific improvement project information for projects identified for implementation during the long-term phase. Each project is profiled for ease of reference to pertinent information that may enable decision makers and funding agencies to quickly understand the need for their implementation. Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 164 Project #LT-1. N7: Tséhootsooí Elementary School to N112 Intersection Route Name: N7 Section Number: 146, 140, 130, 120 Project Location: Tséhootsooí Elementary School to N112 Intersection Project Mileage: 1.14 miles Existing Conditions: • • • • Existing and Future Developments Served: Existing and Projected Traffic Conditions: Number of Lanes: One lane in each direction, each lane approximately 12 FT wide Functional Classification: Rural Minor Arterial Speed Limit: 30 MPH; 15 MPH school zone approaching Tséhootsooí Elementary School South of N7 is classified as agriculture, rural single family residential land use. North side of N7 is designated as grazing • Future retail and college along the south side; Government buildings north of Tséhootsooí Elementary School • Existing ADT: 2,305 Existing LOS: B • 2018 ADT: 2,536 2018 LOS: B Average Daily Traffic (ADT) refers to a roadway's total traffic volume during a 24-hour period. Level of Service (LOS) is measurement of traffic congestion. LOS is expressed using letters "A" through "F" , with LOS A representing free flow conditions and LOS F representing failed conditions. Project Description: Improvement Cost Estimate Benefit Construct Narrow Asphalt Shared Use Path – $120,000 Pedestrian/Bicyclist mobility Eastbound (0.60 mi) Environmental Overview: May have impacts to wetlands and biological resources in area. Consideration should be given to impacts on cultural resources. Issues Addressed: Pedestrian/bicyclist mobility Project Benefits: Increased pedestrian and bicyclist safety conditions; and pedestrian/bicyclist access to N112 Funding Sources: Tribal Transportation Program (TTP) ; Surface Transportation Program (STP) Federal Lands Transportation Program (FLTP); Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP) Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 165 Project #LT-2. N7: N112 Intersection to Western Study Boundary Route Name: N7 Section Number: 115 Project Location: N112 Intersection to Western Study Boundary Project Mileage: 0.61 miles Existing Conditions: Existing and Future Developments Served: • Number of Lanes: One lane eastbound, two lanes westbound; each lane approximately 12 FT wide • Functional Classification: Rural Minor Arterial • Speed Limit: 55 MPH • South of N7 is classified as agriculture, rural single family residential land use. North side of N7 is designated as grazing Existing and Projected Traffic Conditions: • Existing ADT: 877 • 2018 ADT: 965 Existing LOS: A 2018 LOS: A Average Daily Traffic (ADT) refers to a roadway's total traffic volume during a 24-hour period. Level of Service (LOS) is measurement of traffic congestion. LOS is expressed using letters "A" through "F" , with LOS A representing free flow conditions and LOS F representing failed conditions. Project Description: Improvement Cost Estimate Benefit Construct Narrow Asphalt Shared Use Path – $150,000 Pedestrian/Bicyclist mobility Eastbound (0.61 mi) Construct Narrow Asphalt Shared Use Path – $150,000 Pedestrian/Bicyclist mobility Westbound (0.61 mi) May have impacts to wetlands and biological resources in area. Consideration should be Environmental Overview: given to impacts on cultural resources. Issues Addressed: Pedestrian/bicyclist mobility Project Benefits: Increased pedestrian and bicyclist safety conditions and pedestrian/bicyclist access Funding Sources: Tribal Transportation Program (TTP) ; Surface Transportation Program (STP) Federal Lands Transportation Program (FLTP); Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP) Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 166 Project #LT-3. N110: N112 Intersection to Western Study Boundary Route Name: N110 Section Number: 40, 43, 46, 50, 55 Project Location: N112 Intersection to Western Study Boundary Project Mileage: 1.17 miles Existing Conditions: • Number of Lanes: Two lanes in each direction with a center turn lane, each lane approximately 12-14 FT wide • Functional Classification: Rural Minor Arterial • Speed Limit: 35 MPH • Land use designations include police/fire, medium density residential, rural single family residential, public facility/institutional, and government • Future office complex at northwest corner of N110/N112, Old Downtown redevelopment, and medical school in the vicinity of old hospital area • Existing ADT: 2,903 Existing LOS: B • 2018 ADT: 3,193 2018 LOS: B Existing and Future Developments Served: Existing and Projected Traffic Conditions: Average Daily Traffic (ADT) refers to a roadway's total traffic volume during a 24-hour period. Level of Service (LOS) is measurement of traffic congestion. LOS is expressed using letters "A" through "F" , with LOS A representing free flow conditions and LOS F representing failed conditions. Project Description: Improvement Cost Estimate Benefit $180,000 Improved roadway conditions Pave 0.2 Miles of Unpaved Roadway Construct Concrete Shared Use Path – Westbound $234,000 Pedestrian/Bicyclist mobility (1.17 mi) Corridor is developed; therefore environmental impacts are minimal. Consideration should be Environmental Overview: given to impacts on cultural resources, utilities, and sensitive noise receptors. Issues Addressed: Pedestrian/bicyclist mobility and unpaved roadway Project Benefits: Increased pedestrian and bicyclist safety conditions; pedestrian/bicyclist access to activity centers and residential areas; downtown redevelopment Funding Sources: Tribal Transportation Program (TTP) ; Surface Transportation Program (STP); Federal Lands Transportation Program (FLTP); Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP) Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 167 Project #LT-4. N112: N7 Intersection to Northern Study Boundary Route Name: N112 Section Number: 70 Project Location: N7 Intersection to Northern Study Boundary Project Mileage: 0.35 miles Existing Conditions: Existing and Future Developments Served: • • • • • Existing and Projected Traffic Conditions: • Existing ADT: 169 • 2018 ADT: 186 Number of Lanes: One lane in each, each lane approximately 12 FT wide Functional Classification: Rural Major Collector Speed Limit: 35 MPH Surrounding land use is designated for grazing No developments are currently planned Existing LOS: A 2018 LOS: A Average Daily Traffic (ADT) refers to a roadway's total traffic volume during a 24-hour period. Level of Service (LOS) is measurement of traffic congestion. LOS is expressed using letters "A" through "F" , with LOS A representing free flow conditions and LOS F representing failed conditions. Project Description: Improvement Cost Estimate Benefit Construct Narrow Asphalt Shared Use Path – Eastbound $100,000 Pedestrian/Bicyclist mobility (0.50 mi) Construct Narrow Asphalt Shared Use Path – Westbound $100,000 Pedestrian/Bicyclist mobility (0.50 mi) $120,000 Improved roadway conditions Pave 0.15 Miles of Unpaved Roadway May have impacts to wetlands and biological resources in area. Consideration should be Environmental Overview: given to impacts on cultural resources. Issues Addressed: Pedestrian/bicyclist mobility and unpaved roadway Project Benefits: Increased roadway and pedestrian/bicyclist conditions Funding Sources: Tribal Transportation Program (TTP) ; Surface Transportation Program (STP); Federal Lands Transportation Program (FLTP); Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP) Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 168 Project #LT-5. Multi-Use Trail Route Name: Not Applicable Section Number: Not Applicable Project Location: Project Mileage: ~2.5 miles Existing and Future Developments Served: • Surrounding land use is designated for grazing • No developments are currently planned Project Description: Construct a multi-use path to increase pedestrian and bicyclist mobility, encourage recreation activities; and to ultimately connect with neighboring communities Improvement Cost Estimate Benefit Develop multi-use trail along remaining portion of Black $250,000 Pedestrian/Bicyclist mobility and access Creek within the Study Area (~ 2.5 miles) May have impacts to wetlands, flood event water surface elevations, cultural resources , and Environmental Overview: biological resources in area. Issues Addressed: Lack of pedestrian, bicyclist, and trail recreational activity areas Project Benefits: Increase pedestrian and bicyclist mobility, encourage recreation activities; and to ultimately connect with neighboring communities Funding Sources: Surface Transportation Program (STP); Transportation Alternative Program (TAP); TAP = Recreation Trails Program (RTP) Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 169 PEDESTRIAN, BICYCLE, AND TRAIL FACILITY RECOMMENDATIONS The Fort Defiance study area's existing sidewalks, bike lanes, and trails were reviewed in relation to: • The location of activity centers such as schools, large retail establishments, libraries, hospitals, recreation activity centers, • Proposed developments; and • Existing roadway alignments. Analyzing the study area's existing pedestrian and bicycle facilities helped to identify locations that would benefit from these amenities and that would be closely integrated with the area's roadway system. Figure 8.1 provides an illustration of recommended pedestrian, bicycle and trail facilities. For detailed descriptions and maps of the short-, mid-, and long-term pedestrian and bicycle improvement recommendations please refer to the recommended improvement projects presented at the beginning of this chapter. TRANSIT RECOMMENDATIONS The identification of transit projects were based on input from the Navajo Transit System staff, the TAC, stakeholders, public input and a review of the Navajo Transit System Five-Year Plan and previous planning studies. Short-Term (2018) Transit Recommendations • Conduct a transit ridership survey to determine the need for local transit service and to identify potential new stop locations. • If warranted by the transit ridership survey, redesign existing transit routes to add an additional transit stop at the Window Rock High School. • Install shelters at bus stop locations to provide safety for waiting passengers and to encourage transit ridership. • Per the 2009 Navajo Transit System Five-Year Implementation Plan, establish a circulator bus route between St. Michaels, Window Rock, and the Fort Defiance study area. Mid-Term (2023) Transit Recommendations • Establish a Local Circulator that operates daily between 8am – 5pm and connects government and activity centers within Fort Defiance. Long-Term (2033) Transit Recommendations • Install bus pullouts and advance signage at the pullouts to reduce delays and to lower the potential for rear-end collisions with motor vehicles. Table 8.4 provides a summary of existing transit stop locations in which the existing right-of-way and roadway conditions support the installation of bus pullouts. Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 170 Figure 8.1. Recommended Pedestrian and Trail Facilities Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 171 Table 8.4. Recommended Transit Stop Locations Bus Stop Conoco Gas Station Considerations Recommended Bus Location* Bus pullout can be accommodated west • 150 FT ROW, four-lane roadway • Intersection operations may be impacted of the Conoco Gas Station on N110. by near-side or far-side bus stops • Existing driveways may cause conflicts for near-side, far-side, and bus pullouts 7-2-11 • 150 FT ROW, four-lane roadway • Near-side and far-side bus stops may cause conflicts and visibility issues for motor vehicles Bus pullout can be accommodated south of 7-2-11 on N12. Transit Center • Existing transit center provides ample space for buses to enter the facility and to pick-up passengers Not applicable NTUA • Existing stop is located on small two-lane If warranted, an additional bus pullout can be accommodated on N12, south of street the NTUA Water Development • Existing stop is located on small two-lane If warranted, an additional bus pullout can be accommodated on N12, south of street the NTUA Facilities Maintenance Building • Existing stop is located on small two-lane If warranted, an additional bus pullout can be accommodated on N12, south of street the NTUA Fort Defiance Indian Hospital • Existing stop is located at the entrance of A centralized bus pullout can be installed along N7 to service both the hospital and the Fort Defiance Indian Hospital neighboring residential area Old PHS Building • 150 FT ROW, four-lane roadway • Existing roadway conditions limits bus' available space to turn around Bus pullout cannot be accommodated at the stop Old Firehouse Building • 100 FT ROW, two-lane roadway Bus pullout can be accommodated north of the firehouse building on N110 Post Office • 100 FT ROW, two-lane roadway Bus pullout can be accommodated north of the Post Office driveway on N112 Window Rock High School Bus pullout can be accommodated a • 200 FT ROW, four-lane roadway north of the High School on N12 • Can provide a centralized bus stop for the school and adjacent residential areas *Recommendations are based on existing ROW and roadway characteristics, a detailed site suitability study will need to be conducted to identify the exact location that can support a bus pullout or transit stop. Factors such as sidewalk and right-of-way space, topography, land use compatibility, safety, and operation should be considered during this analysis. Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 172 TITLE VI IMPLICATIONS To ensure that the recommended projects provide a fair distribution of benefits and burdens to all residents, an analysis of potential impacts on protected populations was conducted. Since the study is located within the Navajo Reservation, the entire study area has a high percentage of Title VI populations. It is anticipated, however, that recommended transportation improvement projects will only have negative impacts during construction periods. Ultimately, this plan's recommendations will provide protected populations with enhanced, safer multimodal transportation. Table 8.5 provides an overview of potential impacts and benefits of recommended improvements on Title VI population. Throughout the course of the study, efforts were made to including meaningful participation by all residents through stakeholder and public outreach. A two-phase public involvement process including two public meetings in which protected populations were invited to voice their opinion on the needs of the community and comment on recommended improvements. As recommended projects are implemented, it is vital that on-going outreach efforts to protected populations continue. Furthermore, consideration should be given during project development and construction to minimize or mitigate adverse impacts to minority business owners, the mobility needs of the protected populations, and residential parcels of protected populations. Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 173 Table 8.5. Recommended Project Impacts and Advantages on Title VI Populations Project Type Project Number Project Description Impacted Populations Disproportionate/ Adverse Impacts Benefits of Recommended Improvement Improved overall safety and efficiency of roadway network. Improved road conditions and emergency response time. Improved pedestrian safety. Reduction in crashes and crash severity. Roadway Deficiencies ST:1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13 MT: 3, 4, 10 LT: 3, 4 Pavement preservation, pavement rehabilitation, roadway striping, install shoulders, add landscape buffer; widen street, bridge replacement. Minority, lowincome, age 65 and older, and disabled populations. Temporary constraints to access businesses, residential areas, and activity centers during construction. Increased noise during construction. Roadside Safety Enhancements ST:1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13 MT: 3, 10 Install cattle guards, repair fencing, remove vegetation. Minority, lowincome, age 65 and older, and disabled populations. Temporary constraints and increased noise during construction. Improved overall safety and efficiency of roadway network. Reduction in crashes and crash severity. Intersection Traffic Control ST: 14, 15, Install traffic signals, 16, 17, 18, enhance existing 19 traffic signal, add turn lanes, reconfigure intersection to roundabout. Minority, lowincome, age 65 and older, and disabled populations. Temporary constraints and increased noise during construction. Improved overall safety and efficiency of roadway network. Improved road conditions and emergency response time. Improved pedestrian safety. Reduction in crashes and crash severity. Relieve traffic congestion. Pedestrian Mobility ST:1, 4, 5, 6, 7, 9, 10, 12, 13, 18, 19 MT: 1, 2, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 LT: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 Install shared-use paths, sidewalks, pedestrian crosswalks, bike lanes, and multiuse trails. Minority, lowincome, age 65 and older, and disabled populations. Temporary constraints and increased noise during construction. Improved pedestrian, bicycle, and roadway safety. Promote safe mobility and exercise. Provide alternative means of transportation. School Zone and Community Gateway Safety Improvements ST: 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26 MT: 11, 12, 13, 14 Install traffic calming devices such as chicane median, HAWK Pedestrian Beacon, and rumble strips. Minority, lowincome, age 65 and older, and disabled populations. Temporary constraints and increased noise during construction. Improved pedestrian, bicycle, and roadway safety. Reduction in crashes and crash severity. Alternative Routes ST: 26 Construct alternative route to access Window Rock High School Sports Stadium Minority, lowincome, age 65 and older, and disabled populations Temporary Relieve traffic congestion. constraints and increased noise during construction. Install bus shelters, establish circulator bus routes, and install bus pullouts. Minority, lowincome, age 65 and older, and disabled populations. Temporary constraints to access activity centers during construction. Increased traffic noise and traffic volume. Decreased air quality. Transit Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Improved local and regional transit connectivity. Provide alternative means of transportation. Improved pedestrian safety. Improved overall efficiency of roadway network. Relieve traffic congestion. Final Report 174 TRIBAL TRANSPORTATION PROGRAM UPDATE RECOMMENDATIONS The National Tribal Transportation Facility Inventory (NTTFI) is a comprehensive national inventory of all tribal transportation facilities that are eligible for TTP funding by tribe, reservation, BIA agency and region, Congressional district, State, and county. This inventory is utilized as the basis to identify a tribe's transportation system, determine the transportation needs of a tribe, and serves as a basis for apportioning federal funds. The inventory includes specific facility information, such as classification, route/bridge number, current and projected traffic volumes, pavement conditions etc, and is utilized for the ongoing review of facility conditions. Detailed descriptions of the recommended updates to the NTTFI were documented and provided to the Fort Defiance Chapter, BIA, and ADOT. In order to obtain funding and accurately report the status of the tribe's transportation system, the current NTTFI for the Fort Defiance Chapter was reviewed against field review conditions and GIS analysis to identify necessary corrections and updates. Mileage Corrections Utilizing GIS software, existing NTTFI routes and sections were analyzed to determine section mileage. Within the study area, the following two roadway sections need to be updated to reflect accurate conditions: • • Route 07, Section 140: Length decreased by 0.1 mile Route 07, Section 150: Length increased by 0.1 mile Existing Traffic Volumes Traffic counts were obtained as part of the Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study. One of the major criteria in determining the functional classification of a roadway is the number of vehicles that utilize the road every day. In order for appropriate decisions and improvement recommendations to be made, traffic count data was gathered in May 2013 at 12 locations along the study roadways. Existing ADT and ADT Year corrections to the NTTFI are made to the following roadways: • • • • Route 0110: Sections 010, 030, 035, 040, 043, 046, and 050 Route 0112: Sections 050, 060, 063, 066, and 070 Route 012: Sections 150, 160, 165, 170, and 180 Route 07; Sections 115, 120, 140, and 150 Recommended New Route to the NTTFI Based on analysis of current and future conditions, it is recommended that the following roadways be added to the inventory: • The Window Rock High School Sports Stadium will generate increased vehicle and pedestrian traffic in the area. As the recommended Window Rock High School Sports Stadium roadways are developed, consideration should be given for the inclusion in the inventory. The Window Rock High School Sport Stadium is a major activity center in the community that will generate substantial vehicle and pedestrian traffic to the area. Inclusion to the NTTFI will ensure appropriate funding and the maintenance of the roadway. Final Report 175 Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study 9 . ROA DWAY MAI NT E NA NCE PLA N The Navajo Nation BIA Road System consists of existing and proposed public roads within the Navajo Reservation that meet the Tribal Transportation Program (formerly IRR) definition and for which the BIA Navajo Regional Office Division of Transportation (BIA-NRODOT) has or plans to obtain legal right-of-way. Within the BIA-NRODOT, the Navajo Nation Road Maintenance Program is responsible for the preservation, repair, and restoration of system roads to their original condition. In effort to establish a standard schedule for which road shall be maintained, the following Roadway Maintenance Plan provides an overview of standard maintenance activities and frequency for which maintenance should occur. STUDY ROADWAY MAINTENANCE NEEDS Paved roads require routine maintenance such as patching; crack sealing; snow plowing; guardrail, sign and delineator replacements; repair, and cleaning; fence and gate repair; roadside clean-up and mowing; and striping. As identified by the BIA Road Maintenance Manual, the following is the minimum acceptable level for paved road maintenance: • Maintaining all roadways, shoulders, traffic signs, drainage structures, and pavement markings; • Patching potholes and localized failures is necessary; • Sealing cracks in the pavement; and • Pavement sealing when deterioration is moderate, with small areas rated as severe. Table 9.1 provides an overview of standard road maintenance activities per the BIA Road Maintenance Manual and ADOT Performance Guidelines Manual. Table 9.1. Road Maintenance Activities Maintenance Description and Purpose Activity Replace Surface / The removal and replacement of Base badly cracked and broken asphalt surface and deteriorated base with new material. Patching Surface Patch potholes, severe depressions, edge breakup, and breaks in roadway and shoulder surfaces using premix materials. Guidelines Season Material shall be removed a minimum depth of 4" and a minimum thickness of 2" asphaltic premix surface material should be used. 1.Potholes and localized failures are to be repaired as soon as scheduling permits, but no later than one week after notification, except when: a. The speed limit on the road is 35 MPH or less. The hole or localized failure is not over 2" deep as measured from the adjacent pavement. Repair work is within existing schedules. b. Sealing or resurfacing project is starting within the month. 2.Apply either temporary or permanent patches. Use permanent patching unless overlays or other general repairs are scheduled. Spring or Fall Can be performed year-round Source: BIA Road Maintenance Manual; ADOT Performance Guidelines Manual Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 176 Table 9.1. Road Maintenance Activities (Continued) Maintenance Description and Purpose Activity Crack Sealing Rout and/or clean 1/4" or greater expansion or working cracks and seal in AC or PCC pavements to prevent the passage of water through the surface crack into the pavement structure or subgrade. Guidelines Season This should be done in cool weather when cracks are open (spring or fall). Not in inclement weather which would interfere with adherence of the asphalt. Winter Spring or Fall Sand Seal Coat Full-surface treatment on continuous sections of bituminous pavement with one application of liquid asphalt and cover material to seal and restore surface life, flexibility, and skid resistance. Sand seals enrich weathered pavements and fills fine cracks in the pavement surface. This should be done when deterioration is moderate, with perhaps small areas rated as severe. Severe deterioration requires a decision of whether to return the road to gravel or repave; and may require a report on why deterioration was allowed to progress so far. Chip Seal Full-surface treatment on continuous sections of bituminous pavement with one application of liquid asphalt and cover material to seal and restore surface life, flexibility and skid resistance. Section of surface to be treated must be Spring or large enough to utilize at least twentyFall one tons of liquid asphalt spread by the supplier. This should be done when deterioration is moderate, with perhaps small areas rated as severe. Severe deterioration requires a decision of whether to return the road to gravel or repave; and may require a report on why deterioration was allowed to progress so far Tight Blading The application of premix with a blade to fill ruts and raveling in asphaltic pavement and/or ACFC finishing course. (1-1/2 inches deep or less) Schedule seal coat at least one month after completion to allow to cure and to get additional traffic compaction. Should be coordinated with the District Traffic Engineer to avoid covering recently painted stripe and allow for restriping schedule. Spring or Fall Surface Blading and Reshaping Grade unpaved roads, including frontage roads, to restore proper shape, smoothness and drainage. This activity includes forming or reforming of drainage gutters, removal of berms, and placement of cut material on the roadway. Grading is best performed after rain or when surface materials are moist to insure proper compaction. Spring or Fall Source: BIA Road Maintenance Manual; ADOT Performance Guidelines Manual Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 177 Table 9.1. Road Maintenance Activities (Continued) Maintenance Description and Purpose Activity Soil Stabilization Apply magnesium chloride soil stabilizers to promote Unpaved Roads compaction and dust control on dirt or gravel roads Dust Control Blade Unpaved Shoulders Repair Shoulders Reconstruction Pavement Striping Asphalt Sidewalks and Shared-Use Paths Apply water to reinforce soil characteristics for dust control and maintenance of unpaved surfaces, stockpiles, etc. Blade and reshape shoulders & drainage ditches including fill & cut sections, if necessary, to correct pavement drop-off, rutting of shoulders, build-up of shoulder material, and to restore a smooth, safe surface with proper drainage. Add or remove material to shoulder and slope to eliminate pavement drop-off, rutted or eroded conditions. Guidelines Season Apply magnesium chloride at recommended rate for dust control or compaction on gravel or dirt roads, do not exceed 300 gallons per lane mile per day. Apply a sufficient amount of water to settle dust or form a crust Can be performed year-round Grading is best performed when shoulder material is moist to insure maximum workability of material. Can be performed year-round Should be scheduled before rutting along the edge of the pavement effects the integrity of the roadway or when slope erosion, if left unrepaired, will deteriorate into major damage. When a roadway has reached Material shall be removed a minimum the end of its life cycle and can depth of 4" and a minimum thickness of no longer be rehabilitated, a new 2" asphaltic premix surface material road must be constructed. All should be used. The base shall be existing pavement will be replaced when unstable. removed and recycled for use as a new sub-base. The old subbase will be regraded and compacted and a new hot-mix asphalt surface applied. Paint traffic lines which include Striping should be scheduled to follow center lines, lane lines, no seal coats. passing stripes, gore stripes and edge stripes on roadways, frontage roads, all re-paved or sealed roadways and other pavement markings. Repair pop-outs; potholes, Check drainage components for proper buckled sidewalks, broken function; Identify and complete joint and curbs, , sunken pavement, root crack sealing and patching; perform seal coating. If widespread subgrade issues infiltration. are suspected, removal and replacement is the only option Can be performed year-round Spring or Fall Spring or Fall Spring or Fall Can be performed year-round Source: BIA Road Maintenance Manual; ADOT Performance Guidelines Manual Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 178 Table 9.1. Road Maintenance Activities (Continued) Maintenance Description and Purpose Activity Concrete Sidewalk Repair potholes, buckled and Shared-Use sidewalks, broken curbs, Paths crumbling concrete, sunken pavement. Guidelines Season Check drainage components for proper function, no pooling water; Identify and complete joint and crack sealing and patching. If widespread subgrade issues are suspected, removal and replacement is the only option Can be performed year-round Guardrail Replacement, Repair, and Cleaning Replace and upgrade guardrail systems Maintenance work is scheduled as required and as necessary to replace and upgrade guardrail system Can be performed year-round Cattle Guard Maintenance and Clean-Out Replace, repair grills and/or clean cattle guards. When damaged cattle guard becomes a traffic safety hazard or allows livestock to enter right-of-way, this activity should be treated as an emergency. Can be performed year-round Drainage Maintenance and Clean-Out Clean inlet and outlet drainage This work shall be performed on ditches within right-of-way and drainage installations, as required. drainage easements, including those for roadway dips. Clean catch basins, drop right-of-way and drainage easements, including those for roadway dips. Clean catch basins, drop inlets and down drains. Fencing and Gate Repair Inspect, maintain, repair or replace all fencing and gates Maintenance work is as necessary to Can be replace and upgrade fence system, performed including installation and maintenance of year-round gates. Sign Clean/ Wash/ Inspect Inspect and clean to maintain unit at optimum designed efficiency. Can be performed year-round Sign Repair and Replacement Repair and replace existing signs due to graffiti, accident, weather damage, or retroreflectivity The BIA shall install and replace signs in accordance with the current edition of the MUTCD. Can be performed year-round Sweeping Sweeping of the curbed and other portions of the roadway with a mechanical sweeper Sweeping shall be accomplished when possible during times of low traffic volume and in accordance with the applicable route schedule. Can be performed year-round Can be performed year-round Source: BIA Road Maintenance Manual; ADOT Performance Guidelines Manual Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 179 Table 9.1. Road Maintenance Activities (Continued) Maintenance Description and Purpose Activity Roadside Mowing Machine mow road edge on road shoulders to improve sight distance, control weeds, tree seedlings, eliminate snowdrift, reduce summer fire fuels and enhance view of hazard markers, guardrails and delineators. Guidelines Season Vegetation is not to be mowed unless average height of plants is greater than 17". In order to preserve perennial grasses needed for shoulder stability, do not mow lower than 4". Can be performed year-round Brush and Tree Removal Trim shrubs and ground cover in landscaped areas to maintain sight distance, or to improve plant barrier density. Various conditions and/or shrub varieties Can be require pruning at different times during performed the year. year-round Roadside Clean-up Pick up and disposal of all litter within the right-of-way. Includes removal of all unsightly objects and items which could cause damage to roadside mowing equipment. Work shall be accomplished as needed to preserve the aesthetic appearance of the highway and assure safety of roadside mowing equipment. Can be performed year-round Removal of Traffic Obstacles During routine maintenance and Obstacles include fallen trees and posts, roadway inspection, remove rocks, brush, trash, dead animals, immediately all obstacles within unauthorized signs, etc. the right-of-way that are potentially hazardous to roadway users. Can be performed year-round Winter Preparation Conduct winter patrol of snow and ice areas of the road to determine the possible development of hazardous conditions requiring maintenance attention. Winter storm patrol shall be used as weather forecasts and conditions warrant. Remove de-icer from equipment to prevent excessive corrosion. Fall and Winter Snow and Ice Control Plow snow and/or apply de-icing agents to the roadway as conditions warrant Plow and/or apply abrasives / de-icers to Winter locations where needed. Abrasive material may be treated with de-icing agents. Bridge Clean and Inspect Inspect, clean, remove graffiti from, and otherwise maintain decks, joints, footings, abutments, wingwalls, superstructure, and rails Scheduling shall become an emergency when conditions require immediate attention for public safety. Can be performed year-round Source: BIA Road Maintenance Manual; ADOT Performance Guidelines Manual Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 180 Within the Fort Defiance study area, all study roadways are classified as a Rural Minor Arterial (class 2) or a Rural Major Collector (class 4) roadway. The maintenance of these minor arterials and major collectors is a high priority since they serve traffic between population centers and carry high volumes of local traffic. To prioritize maintenance, a road classification system was developed based on a road's function, land use, and traffic conditions. This classification system, referred to as "Level of Development", serves as a guide for determining the type and timetable of maintenance activities within the Fort Defiance study area. Table 9.2 outlines LOD Classification System utilized in this study as well as corresponding study roadways. Table 9.2. Level of Development LOD Roadway Context Study Roadways LOD 1 • Arterial roadway • Moderate to high traffic volumes • Regional and local traffic • Developed area • Major school bus route • N12: Southern Study Boundary to Northern Study Boundary • N54: Eastern Study Boundary to N12 Intersection • N110: N12 Intersection to Western Study Boundary LOD 2 • Arterial roadway • Moderate to low traffic volumes • Regional and local traffic • Partially developed area • School bus route • N112: Southern Study Boundary to N7 Intersection • N7: N12 Intersection to N112 Intersection LOD 3 • Arterial roadway • Low traffic volumes • Regional and local traffic • Rural area • N7: N112 Intersection to Western Study Boundary • N112: N7 Intersection to Northern Study Boundary For each LOD classified roadway, a specific maintenance schedule should be followed in order to maintain the safety of the traveling public. Figure 9.1; 9.2; and 9.3 illustrate the recommended maintenance schedule for roadways classified as LOD 1-3, respectively. Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 181 Figure 9.1. Maintenance Activities and Frequency - Level of Development 1 Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 182 Figure 9.2. Maintenance Activities and Frequency - Level of Development 2 Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 183 Figure 9.3. Maintenance Activities and Frequency - Level of Development 3 Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 184 ROADWAY MAINTENANCE ESTIMATES To assist Tribal and County staff to determine the costs of maintaining existing roadways, the following section provides general costs estimates. Table 9.3 outlines typical maintenance procedures and planning cost estimates for each. These costs estimates should be used for planning purposes and initial project budgeting only; during the design phase of a project engineering estimates should be developed. Cost estimates provided in this section do not include right-of-way acquisition or utility relocation costs. Table 9.3. Road Maintenance Activities Maintenance Item Cost Per Installation Cost Per Linear Unit Cost Per Mile $80,000 $150 per sqft $15,000 Replace Surface / Base Patching Surface $30,000 Crack Sealing Chip Seal $0.416 x pavement width $2,204 x pavement width Surface Blading and Reshaping $20,000 Dust Control $125,000 Asphalt-Concrete Overlay (1 1/2") $0.706 x pavement width + $1.69 x length $3,768 x pavement width + $10,223 Asphalt Grinding $0.476 x pavement width $2,520 x pavement width $0.30 $15,000 per lane mile to reshape. Additional $5,000 per mile to place millings $1,600 per mile per lane $6.25 $825 per lane $23.10 $122,000 $16.38 $86,500 $18.08 $95,500 $23.10 $122,000 Repair Shoulders Pavement Striping Continuous or Broken Pavement Markings $420 Per Marking (Symbol or Word) Raised Pavement Markers (reflectors) $6.25 each Guardrail Replacement $40 per linear foot; Additional $1,500 per end terminal Fencing - Chain Link (6-feet high) Sign Replacement $485 each installation Sidewalk (5-foot, one side only) Bike Path (8-foot asphalt-concrete; separate from road) Fencing - Chain Link (6-feet high) Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 185 10 . TR ANSP ORTA TIO N P LA N I MP L E ME NT ATIO N This section discusses available funding sources and implementation actions to help execute the Plan for Improvements. FUNDING SOURCES This section describes funding resources available for the types of projects recommended in Chapter 8. The successful implementation of the Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study is contingent upon the availability of funding for design and construction of the improvement projects. Primary funding sources for the area include Federal programs, BIA, ADOT, and other regional government agencies. Passed in July 2012, the Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century Act (MAP-21) reauthorized surface transportation programs through fiscal year 2014. The program was enacted to create a streamlined, performance-based, and multimodal program to address the many challenges facing the Nation's transportation system. MAP-21 authorizes Federal-aid highway programs for the next two-years while maintaining current spending levels by consolidating core highway programs of SAFETEA-LU. Under MAP-21, the new Tribal Transportation Program (TTP) provides $450 million annually with the ultimate goal to provide safe and adequate transportation and public road access to and within Indian reservations and Indian lands. While generally following the existing Indian Reservation Roads program, the TTP also includes new standards that a certain percentage of funds should be allocated for tribal bridge and tribal safety projects. Funds through the TTP are allocated to Tribes utilizing a statutory formula based on tribal population, road mileage, and average tribal shares of SAFETEA-LU funding. In accordance with MAP-21, Tribes may utilize up to 25% of their TTP funds or $500,000, whichever is greater, for eligible and approved maintenance activities. Included in MAP-21 is a new program called Tribal High Priority Projects Program (THPP). The THPP is a special funding pool that may be utilized for tribes or governmental subdivisions whose annual allocation is insufficient to complete its highest priority project; or for emergency/disasters on any TTP facilities. MAP-21 authorizes $30 million per year from the General Fund (subject to appropriation) for this new program. In addition, MAP-21 gives FTA significant new authority to strengthen the safety of public transportation systems throughout the United States. The Act aims to align Federal funding to Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 186 progress towards the goals of restoring and replacing aged public transportation infrastructure, supporting development, and improving the efficiency of administering grant programs by consolidating and streamlining several programs. MAP-21 provides federal funding for public transit assistance through the Tribal Transit Program (TTP). The TTP is a set-aside from the Formula Grants for Rural Areas program and consists of a $25 million formula program and a $5 million discretionary grant program. Navajo Nation Fuel Excise Tax Revenue is another funding source that could be used to fund some of the projects identified in the Plan for Improvements. Since 1999, the Fuel Excise Tax has been collected by the Office of Navajo Tax Commission and is making a positive impact on the Navajo Nation for community road projects. For gasoline, the FET is 18 cents and for diesel, it is 25 cents. Funding from the road fund is used for improvement projects such as parking lots, school bus routes, drainage crossings, access roads, road maintenance, grading, graveling, archaeological surveys, testing, mitigation, drainage studies, construction services, threatened and endangered species, airport maintenance, designs, plans, specifications, bidding, and contract services. This revenue source generates, on average, approximately $13 million each year. Projects completed with this funding are identified and included in the Navajo DOT Transportation Improvement Program (TIP). Navajo DOT can also partner with Apache County District II to establish an IGA. If the county elects to enter into IGAs then some funds could be dedicated to specific projects through cooperative partnership. Several counties in the state have instituted a ½ cent sales tax dedicated to transportation improvement projects. Counties have the ability to use these funds for planning, design and construction. The funds cannot be used to supplement staff salaries. Apache County could investigate the opportunity to institute this funding mechanism; however, it does require approval by the voters. In addition to these Federal and local programs, there are a multitude of funding opportunities available through ADOT, regional government agencies, and private entities. Table 10.1 presents a comprehensive matrix of potential funding sources for roadway, safety, pedestrian and bicycle, and transit improvements that the Fort Defiance Chapter can apply for funding to implement the Plan for Improvements. The following resources also provide additional information related to funding sources. Local Public Agency Projects Manual for Federal-aid Funded Projects The ADOT Local Public Agency Projects Manual provides information and guidance to assist local public agencies (i.e., counties, cities, towns and tribal governments) with projects funded through the Federal Highway Administration's (FHWA) Federal-Aid Highway Program (FAHP), from planning to final acceptance. The manual outlines the ADOT and FHWA policies and procedures when developing, delivering, and administering transportation projects. The Manual is available at the following website link: http://www.azdot.gov/business/programs-and-partnerships/LocalPublicAgency/lpa-projectsmanual Final Report 187 Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Additionally, another available tool is the Federal-aid Essentials. It is web based and can be accessed at: http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/federal-aidessentials/index.cfm Arizona Tribal Transportation Website Funding Resources Links The Arizona Tribal Transportation website is hosted by ADOT and is designed as a central location for state-tribal transportation related partnerships, projects, activities, groups, links, and other related information. The website contains a listing of transportation related funding resources which can be found at the following link: http://www.aztribaltransportation.com/aztt/links.asp PARTNERSHIPS With the support of the ADOT Tribal Strategic Partnering Team, the Navajo Nation re-established a partnership between with the Navajo DOT, ADOT, BIA, FHWA, Hopi Tribe, Coconino County, Navajo County, and Apache County. The mission of the partnership is to foster and maintain working relationships in order to construct, operate, improve, and maintain a safe transportation system for the traveling public. The Navajo DOT Partnership Steering Committee identified the main goals of the partnership as focusing on aspects of the approval process, agreements, emergency response, training and education, funding resources, and route standards for the following subgoals: • Subgoal#1: High Volume Routes/Region • Subgoal#2: School Bus Routes/Region • Subgoal#3: Low Volume Routes/Region • Subgoal#4: Community Routes As part of this partnership, a steering committee comprised of agency officials host meetings to discuss and plan for roadway improvement projects, emergency response, intergovernmental agreements, and to improve general communication and data sharing among agencies. Information generated on the above topics by this partnership could assist the Fort Defiance Chapter and Apache County District II with plan implementation. Access to the partnership information is available at the following link: http://www.aztribaltransportation.com/NNP/index.asp. In addition, the Fort Defiance Chapter and Apache County District II should work to build on the stakeholder partnership efforts initiated through this study planning process. It is recommended that project-specific partnerships be continued with the Navajo DOT, BIA Fort Defiance Agency and other agency stakeholders in order to garner support and available joint financial commitment to implement the study project recommendations. A guide on the basics of transportation partnering is available on the ADOT website at the following link: http://www.azdot.gov/business/programsand-partnerships/partnering. Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 188 Table 10.1. Potential Funding Sources Funding Program Eligible Uses Roadway and Safety Projects Tribal TTP funds may be used by to pay the costs of Transportation the following activities: Transportation Program (TTP) planning, research, maintenance*, engineering, rehabilitation, restoration, construction, and reconstruction of tribal transportation facilities; Operation and maintenance of transit programs and facilities that are located on, or provide access to, tribal land, or are administered by a tribal government Tribal High Priority Repair or reconstruction of eligible facilities in Projects (THPP) the national inventory of tribal transportation facilities. Funds may not be used for transportation planning; research; routine maintenance activities; structures and erosion protection; landscaping and irrigation systems; purchasing equipment; or condemnation of land for recreational trails. Tribal Transportation Planning Program Transportation planning procedures for the TTP must be consistent with Statewide and Metropolitan planning processes. Tribal Transportation Program Safety Funds (TTPSF) MAP-21 established Tribal Safety funds by setting aside not more than 2 percent of the funds made available under the Tribal Transportation Program for each fiscal year. Eligible activities include: Tribal Safety Plans; Enforcement and EMS; Education Programs; Engineering Improvements; Data Collection; Data analysis and improvement; Road Safety Audits; and funding goals for each category Administering Agency Program and Funding Details Federal Funds Allocated to BIADOT Navajo Regional Office on a formula basis Funding formula is based on each tribe's total population and mileage. Improvement projects must be included in the Navajo Nation TIP. Federal Funds Administered Through BIADOT Navajo Regional Office on a formula basis Funds appropriated from the Federal General Fund, to remain available until September 30 of the third fiscal year after the year appropriated. An applicant may have only one application for assistance pending at any one time. Project funding is limited to a $1 million per application. Funded by a set-aside of up to 2% from TTP funds. Funds are allocated directly to Tribe based on a formula, and distributed on a project by project basis. Margie Begay, Senior Planner Navajo Division of Transportation Southern Agency P.O. Box 4620 Window Rock, AZ 86515 Phone: 505-371-8312 Email: mbegay@navajodot.org Projects Ranked by BIA, FHWA and Tribes. Funded by a setaside of up to 2% from TTP funds. Maximum of $9,000,000 could be made available in each of FYs 2013 and 2014 for TTPSF. Russell Garcia TTPSF Program Manager Federal Highway Administration 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590 Phone: (202) 366-9815 Email: russell.garcia@dot.gov Federal Funds Allocated to BIADOT Navajo Regional Office on a formula basis and distributed on a project by project basis Federal Funds Allocated to BIADOT Navajo Regional Office on a formula basis Application Deadline Improvement projects must be submitted to FHWA by August Contact Information Margie Begay, Senior Planner Navajo Division of Transportation Southern Agency P.O. Box 4620 Window Rock, AZ 86515 Phone: 505-371-8312 Email: mbegay@navajodot.org Margie Begay, Senior Planner Navajo Division of Transportation Southern Agency P.O. Box 4620 Window Rock, AZ 86515 Phone: 505-371-8312 Email: mbegay@navajodot.org Source: FHWA, ADOT, Navajo Nation, USDOT, AmeriCorps, USDA, Arizona State Parks Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 189 Table 10.1. Potential Funding Sources (Continued) Funding Program Eligible Uses Tribal Bridge Program Navajo Nation Fuel Excise Tax Surface Transportation Program (STP) Funds may be used for planning, design, engineering, preconstruction, construction, and inspection of a project to replace, rehabilitate, seismically retrofit, paint, or for anti-icing and deicing, or to implement any countermeasures (including multiple-pipe culverts) for eligible tribal transportation facility bridges. To be eligible, a bridge must have an opening of at least 20 feet, be classified as a tribal transportation facility, and be structurally deficient or functionally obsolete. The Navajo Nation administers a special fuel tax of 18 cents for gasoline and 25 cents for diesel. Revenue is utilizes for road improvement projects, such as: parking lots, school bus routes, drainage crossings, access roads, road maintenance, grading, graveling, and construction services States and metropolitan regions may use these funds for highway, bridge, transit (including intercity bus terminals), and pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure projects. Eligible projects include, but are not limited to: • Construction, reconstruction, rehabilitation, resurfacing, restoration, preservation, or operational improvements for highways, bridges, and tunnels on any public roadway • Construction of new bridges and tunnels on a Federal-aid highway • Inspection and evaluation of bridges, tunnels and other highway assets as well as training for bridge and tunnel inspectors • Transit capital projects • Bicycle, pedestrian, and recreational trails • Environmental mitigation efforts Administering Agency Federal Funds Allocated to BIADOT Navajo Regional Office on a formula basis Program and Funding Details Office of Navajo Tax Commission In 2013, FET collected over $13 million. From the revenue, approximately $4 million is distributed to Arizona yearly. Federal Highway Administration Funds Administered Through ADOT and Planning Organizations In general, STP projects may not be on local or rural minor collectors. Special rule allows States to use up to 15% of funds sub allocated for areas with a population of 5,000 or less on rural minor collectors. Project is scoped and request for funding submitted to NACOG. Funded by a set-aside of up to 2% from TTP funds. Application Deadline Contact Information Margie Begay, Senior Planner Navajo Division of Transportation Southern Agency P.O. Box 4620 Window Rock, AZ 86515 Phone: 505-371-8312 Email: mbegay@navajodot.org Office of the Navajo Tax Commission P.O. Box 1903 Window Rock, Arizona 86515 Phone: 928-871- 6681 Fax: 928-871- 7608 For general program information, visit: http://www.navajotax.org/ Jason Kelly NACOG Transportation/Transit Planning 3130 Robert Rd. Ste. 1 Prescott Valley, AZ 86314 Phone: (928) 830-0127 Email: jkelly@nacog.org Source: FHWA, ADOT, Navajo Nation, USDOT, AmeriCorps, USDA, Arizona State Parks Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 190 Table 10.1. Potential Funding Sources (Continued) Funding Program Eligible Uses Surface Transportation Program (STP) Off-System Bridges From the State's STP apportionment, States are required to obligate a portion of funds (not from suballocated amounts) for bridges not on Federal-aid highways (off-system bridges). Eligible projects include, but are not limited to: replacement, deicing, construction, inspection and evaluation of bridges Federal Lands Transportation Program (FLTP) Eligible projects include, but are not limited to: • Program administration, transportation planning, research, preventive maintenance, engineering, rehabilitation, restoration, construction, and reconstruction of Federal lands transportation facilities • Operations and maintenance of transit facilities • Any transportation project eligible under title 23 of the United States Code that is within or adjacent to, or that provides access to Federal lands open to the public. Federal Lands Access Program Eligible projects include, but are not limited to: • Transportation planning, research, engineering, preventive maintenance, rehabilitation, restoration, construction, and reconstruction of Federal Lands Access Transportation Facilities • Operation and maintenance of transit facilities • Any transportation project eligible under title 23 of the United States Code that is within or adjacent to, or that provides access to Federal lands open to the public. Administering Agency Federal Highway Administration Funds Administered through ADOT and Regional Planning Organizations Program and Funding Details For projects to replace or rehabilitate deficient off-system bridges funded wholly by State/local sources, any amounts spent post-enactment that are in excess of 20% of project costs may be credited to the non-Federal share of eligible bridge projects in the State. Funded by On October 1 of each fiscal contract authority year, funds will be allocated from the Highway among Federal Land Account of the Management Agency (FLMA) Highway Trust partners Fund Funded by contract authority from the Highway Account of the Highway Trust Fund The funds made available under this program will be available for the current year plus three additional years. Funds are distributed by formula among States that have Federal lands Application Deadline Project is scoped and request for funding submitted to NACOG. Project is scoped and request for funding submitted to Planning Organization. Contact Information Jason Kelly NACOG Transportation/Transit Planning 3130 Robert Rd. Ste. 1 Prescott Valley, AZ 86314 Phone: (928) 830-0127 Email: jkelly@nacog.org Arizona Division Federal Highway Administration 4000 N. Central Avenue, Ste. 1500 Phoenix, Arizona 85012-3500 Phone: (602) 379-3646 Fax: (602) 382-8998 For general program information, visit: http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/map21/f actsheets/fltp.cfm or http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/azdiv/ Allen Grasmick Central Federal Lands Highway Division 12300 West Dakota Avenue Lakewood, CO 80228 Phone: (720) 963-3500 Email: Allen.Grasmick@dot.gov For general program information, visit: http://www.cflhd.gov/programs/fla p/AZ/index.cfm Source: FHWA, ADOT, Navajo Nation, USDOT, AmeriCorps, USDA, Arizona State Parks Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 191 Table 10.1. Potential Funding Sources (Continued) Funding Program Eligible Uses Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP) Governor’s Office of Highway Safety National Priority Safety Program The HSIP is a core Federal-aid program with the purpose of achieving a significant reduction in fatalities and serious injuries on all public roads, including non-State-owned public roads and roads on tribal lands. Any project on a public road, trail or path that is consistent with the state’s Strategic Highway Safety Plan and corrects a safety problem is eligible for HSIP funding. Eligible projects include, but are not limited to: • Intersection improvements • Construction of shoulders • Traffic calming • Improvements for bicyclists, pedestrians, and individuals with disabilities. • Minimum standards of retro-reflectivity of traffic signs and pavement markings Finances State and local government highway safety projects. Eligible projects include: inventories, need studies, engineering studies, system development, program implementation, or for purchasing equipment. Cannot be used for the construction, design, or maintenance of highways or for highway construction research papers. Programs include: • Section 405(b): Occupant Protection • Section 405(c): State Traffic Safety Information System Improvements • Section 405(d): Impaired Driving Countermeasures • Section 405(e): Distracted Driving • Section 405(f): Motorcyclist Safety • Section 405(g): Graduated Driver Licensing Administering Agency Federal Highway Administration Funds Administered Through ADOT and Planning Organizations Program and Funding Details Application Deadline Applications due in May Contact Information Arizona Project funding is limited to a Governor's Office maximum of $50,000 per project of Highway contract Safety (GOHS) Applications due in February Director Alberto Gutier Governor’s Office of Highway Safety 3030 North Central Avenue #1550 Phoenix, Arizona. 85012 National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) at the federal level and Arizona Governor's Office of Highway Safety at the state level Applications due in July Director Alberto Gutier Governor’s Office of Highway Safety 3030 North Central Avenue #1550 Phoenix, Arizona. 85012 Project is scoped and request for funding submitted to Regional Planning Organization. The HSIP Local Government Coordinator provides assistance to local agencies throughout the process of identifying and developing the projects. 5.7% for most projects Mona Aglan-Swick HSIP Manager ADOT Statewide HSIP Program Phone: (602) 712-7374 Email: maglan@azdot.gov Source: FHWA, ADOT, Navajo Nation, USDOT, AmeriCorps, USDA, Arizona State Parks Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 192 Table 10.1. Potential Funding Sources (Continued) Funding Program Eligible Uses Section 402 State and Community Highway Safety Grant Program Road Safety Assessment Funds can be spent in accordance with national guidelines for programs such as reducing impaired driving; reducing speeding; encouraging the use of occupant protection; improving motorcycle safety; improving pedestrian and bicycle safety; improving enforcement of traffic safety laws; improving traffic records; and emergency services. The Road Safety Assessments (RSA) program conducts Road Safety Assessments on state, local and tribal road facilities. An RSA is defined as a formal examination of user safety of a future or existing roadway by an independent multidisciplinary audit team, which includes qualified and experienced members. Administering Agency Arizona Governor's Office of Highway Safety Program and Funding Details ADOT Traffic Safety Section Technical assistance, no actual awarding of funds MAP-21 authorizes funding for the 402 program at $235 million each year in FY 2013 and FY 2014. Injury Prevention Program Eligible project include, but are not limited to: developing, evaluating, and implementing programs designed to prevent injury problems facing tribal governments Indian Health Services $75,000 maximum per project Navajo Nation Community Development Block Grant Eligible activities include, but are not limited to: • Housing • Community Facilities: Infrastructure construction, e.g., roads, water and sewer facilities; and, single or multipurpose community buildings. • Economic Development: Wide variety of commercial, industrial, agricultural projects CDBG Program is a federally funded program and serves as a liaison between U.S. Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the Navajo Nation. Southwest Region receives $22.6 million and the Navajo Nation is eligible up to $5.5 million. Eligible applicants under the Navajo Nation are the 110 Chapters and non-profit entities serving the Navajo Nation. CDBG requires a match of 25% or more. Application Deadline Proposals due to the Arizona Governor's Office of Highway Safety in April/May Contact Information On-going Richard S. Weeks, PE, PTOE Program Manager Road Safety Assessment 1615 West Jackson St., Mail Drop 065R Phoenix, AZ 85007-3217 Phone: 602-712-4382 Fax: 602-712-3243 Email: rweeks@azdot.gov Jacey McCurtain Injury Prevention Specialist P.O. Box 649 Fort Defiance, AZ 86504 Phone: 928-729-8449 Email: jacey.mccurtain@ihs.gov Navajo Nation Community Development CDBG P.O. Box 2365 Window Rock, Arizona 86515 Phone: 928-871-6539 For general program information, visit: http://www.nndcd.org/ October or November 2014 Director Alberto Gutier Governor’s Office of Highway Safety 3030 North Central Avenue #1550 Phoenix, Arizona. 85012 Source: FHWA, ADOT, Navajo Nation, USDOT, AmeriCorps, USDA, Arizona State Parks Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 193 Table 10.1. Potential Funding Sources (Continued) Funding Program Eligible Uses Navajo Nation Infrastructure and Capital Improvement Eligible projects include, but are not limited to: The cost for the development of infrastructure such as electric power line, water line, sewer lagoons, waste water treatment facilities, communication and transportation systems, roads and parking lots AmeriCorps Indian AmeriCorps planning grants provide up to Tribes Planning $75,000 for a one-year period to provide Grants support to an Indian Tribe for the development of an AmeriCorps program that will engage AmeriCorps members in order to address pressing community problems. USDA Community Facility Grants Grant funds may be used to assist in the development of essential community facilities. Grant funds can be used to construct, enlarge, or improve community facilities for health care, public safety, and community and public services. This can include the purchase of equipment required for a facility's operation. Planning Assistance for Rural Areas (PARA) Program PARA funds are limited to planning applications and may not be used for the design or construction of transportation facilities. PARA funds may be applied to address a broad range of planning issues related to roadway and non-motorized transportation modes. Funds may also be applied to studies dedicated solely to the planning of public transportation services. Eligible projects include, but are not limited to: • Accelerate adoption of innovative technologies in all aspects of highway transportation • Construct longer-lasting highways • Improve highway efficiency, safety, mobility, reliability, service life, environmental protection, and sustainability Accelerated Innovation Deployment (AID) Demonstration Administering Agency Navajo Nation Capital Improvement Office AmeriCorps Federal funds administered through ADOT Federal Highway Administration Funds Source: FHWA, ADOT, Navajo Nation, USDOT, AmeriCorps, USDA, Arizona State Parks Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Program and Funding Details Application Deadline No limit on length or Funding General proposal Request, dependant on available due annually on funds. Open to Navajo Nation March 1st at 5:00 Chapters, Departments, pm programs, non-profit organizations AmeriCorps State and National sets aside one percent of grant funds to support programs operated by American Indian Tribes The PARA program is funded 100% by ADOT using Federal Statewide Planning and Research (SPR) funds. The awarded funding is a limit or cap of $250,000 for each PARA study process. Applications for projects are submitted to ADOT MPD on an annual basis. Award recipients must obligate awarded funds to project within 6 months of allocation. Applications for planning projects are submitted to ADOT on an annual basis in early summer. Open, rolling solicitation. Applicants must submit applications electronically through Grants.gov. Contact Information Casey Begay Department Manager II Capital Improvement Office Phone: 928-871-6509 Email: begay_casey@hotmail.com For general program information, contact: Phone: (202) 606-7508 Email: americorpsgrants@cns.gov http://www.nationalservice.gov/ build-your-capacity/grants/ USDA Rural Development 230 N 1st Avenue, Suite 509 Phoenix, AZ 85003 Phone: (602) 280-8701 Fax: (602) 280-8770 For general program information, visit:http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/R D_grants.html Justin Feek, Program Manager Arizona Department of Transportation - MPD 206 S. 17th Ave., MD 310B Phoenix, AZ 85007 Phone: 602.712.6196 Fax: 602.712.6412 Email: jfeek@azdot.gov For general program information, visit: http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/ accelerating/grants/ Final Report 194 Table 10.1. Potential Funding Sources (Continued) Funding Program Eligible Uses TIGER Grants Eligible projects include, but are not limited to: • Highway or bridge projects eligible under title 23, United States Code; • Public transportation projects eligible under chapter 53 of title 49, United States Code; • Freight rail projects; • High speed and intercity passenger rail projects; and • Port infrastructure investments Transportation Eligible projects include, but are not limited to: Alternatives • Bicycle and pedestrian facilities Program (TAP) • Safe routes projects for non-drivers • Construction of turnouts and overlooks • Community improvement activities including vegetation management and historic preservation • Environmental mitigation activity including NEPA compliance Pedestrian and Bicycle Projects Transportation Safe Routes to School (SRTS) eligible Alternatives projects and activities include: Program (TAP) • Infrastructure-related projects. Safe Routes to • No infrastructure-related activities. School • Safe Routes to School coordinator Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) Recreational Trails Program (RTP) Recreational Trails Program (RTP) provides funds to the States to develop and maintain recreational trails and trail-related facilities for both nonmotorized and motorized recreational trail uses. Administering Agency United States Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration Funds Administered Through ADOT and Regional Planning Organizations FHWA Administered through Arizona State Parks Source: FHWA, ADOT, Navajo Nation, USDOT, AmeriCorps, USDA, Arizona State Parks Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Program and Funding Application Details Deadline • $1 million minimum grant Applications must be submitted • No match requirement, through though competitive Grants.gov • applications often feature a match • Tribal Transportation Program (TTP) Funds • eligible to match/complete financing TAP funds are available for obligation for a period of 3 years after the last day of the fiscal year for which the funds are authorized. Contact Information 80 percent Federal/20 percent State or local match subject to the sliding scale adjustment Kristin Myers Arizona Department of Transportation Local Public Agency Section 1615 W. Jackson St., Mail Drop EM11 Phoenix, AZ 85007 Phone: (602) 712-6166 Email: KMyers@azdot.gov Robert Baldwin State Trails Coordinator Arizona State Parks Resources Management Section 1300 W Washington St Phoenix AZ 85007-2932 Phone: 602-542-7130 Email: rbb2@azstateparks.gov Office of the Under Secretary for Policy Office of the Secretary of Transportation 1200 New Jersey Ave, SE Washington, DC 20590 Phone: 202-366-4544 For general program information, visit: http://www.dot.gov/tiger Patrick Stone TE Section Manager Department of Transportation 1615 W. Jackson Street, MD EM10 Phoenix, AZ 85226 Phone: 602-712-4428 Email: pstone@azdot.gov Final Report 195 Table 10.1. Potential Funding Sources (Continued) Funding Program Eligible Uses Transit Projects Administering Agency Program and Funding Details Federal Transit Administration In FY 13 approximately $5 million in funding was available for the TTP. The federal share for projects selected under the TTP discretionary program was up to a 90 percent federal share of project costs, unless the Indian tribe could demonstrate a financial hardship in their application. Eligible applicants could also apply for planning grants of up to $25,000 for planning studies. Using these funds for operating expenses requires a 50 percent local match while using these funds for capital expenses (including acquisition of public transportation services) requires a 20 percent local match. Check the TTP Notice of Funding Availability upon publication in the Federal Register. The FY 13 TTP NOFA was published on May 9, 2013 and TTP project applications were due July 8, 2013. Contact the appropriate FTA Regional Office at http://www.fta.dot.gov for proposal-specific information and issues. For general program information, contact : Lorna Wilson, Office of Program Management, (202) 366–0893, Email: lorna.wilson@dot.gov Elan Flippin, Office of Program Management, (202) 366–3800, Email: elan.flippin@dot.gov. Applications due to NACOG in June The Tribal program now consists of a $25 million formula program and a $5 million discretionary grant program. Formula factors include vehicle revenue miles and the number of low-income individuals residing on tribal lands. Federal share may exceed 85% for certain projects related to ADA, CAA, and for certain bicycle projects. To be eligible to receive a RTAP Scholarship, applicants must be an active Arizona grantee receiv ing 5311 and 5310 FTA program funding. Applications are submitted in December, and awards are generally made in July of each year. Jason Kelly NACOG Mobility Management Planner 43 South San Francisco Street Flagstaff, AZ 86001 Phone: (928) 830-0127. Email: jkelly@nacog.org Sara Allred 5311 Program Manager 206 S 17th Ave MD 340B Phoenix, AZ 85007 Phone: 602-712‐4498 Email: sallred@azdot.gov All grantees must submit a RTAP Application at least 30 days prior to the training event. Sara Allred 5311 Program Manager 206 S 17th Ave MD 340B Phoenix, AZ 85007 Phone: 602-712‐4498 Email: sallred@azdot.gov Tribal Transit Program (TTP) Eligible projects include public transportation capital projects for start-ups, replacement or expansion, operating costs for start-ups, and planning. Enhanced Mobility of Seniors and Individuals with Disabilities (Section 5310) Program funds are used for capital assistance, Federal funds the purchase of vehicles, related equipment administered and operating funds statewide. Eligible through ADOT recipients include private nonprofit and public agencies that provide transportation to the elderly and disabled. Rural Area Formula Grants (Section 5311) The Rural Program provides funding to States for the purpose of supporting public transportation in rural areas including funding for Tribal Transit, Appalachian region, Intercity Bus and technical assistance programs and services. Rural areas are locations with populations less than 50,000, where many residents often rely on public transit to reach their destinations. Federal funds administered through ADOT Rural Transit Assistance Program Training, technical assistance, research, and outreach funding to all 5310, 5311, 5316, and 5317 grantees statewide. Federal funds administered through ADOT Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Application Deadline Contact Information Final Report 196 IMPLEMENTATION GUIDELINES Implementation of the recommended Improvement Plan to enhance the safety and mobility along roadways within Fort Defiance requires active participation from local citizens, private entities, and local, County, and State government officials. The following actions are recommended to successfully implement the Plan for Improvements developed as part of this study. • The Fort Defiance Chapter Council needs to formally approve this plan in order to initiate the process of requesting project inclusion in the Navajo Nation TIP and to subsequently receive Federal Lands Highway Program funds or other MAP-21 funds • Incorporate high priority improvement projects in the State Transportation Improvement Program (STIP). In order to receive any federal funding, transportation improvement projects must be included in the State TIP. • Work with Apache County, ADOT, and BIA to confirm existing ROW widths and identify areas where additional ROW is required. It is important that as existing roads are reconstructed that right-of-way descriptions are prepared as part of the design surveys. If needed, purchase required ROW from property owners. • Traffic calming devices should be considered in the design of new roads serving housing, governmental facilities, or commercial developments. • Solicit grants for bicycle and pedestrian improvements to add bicycle lanes, enhance connections to existing facilities, and to construct new facilities in deficient locations. • Develop policies and procedures to promote alternative modes of transportation. • Further research and apply for funding for each project identified in the Plan for Improvements. Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study Final Report 197 A PP E NDIX A. P HAS E 1 S TAK EHO L DE R OU TR EACH SU MMAR Y R EP ORT Apache County Planning Assistance for Rural Areas Project ADOT-MPD Task Assignment 029-13 Date: 05/23/2013 Time: 8:30 AM to 10 AM Location: Apache County District II Office Conference Room Stakeholder Input Meetings – Round 1 MEETING 1 (8:30 – 10:00 AM) SUMMARY Attendees:               Don Sneed (ADOT PM) Vamshi Yellisetty (Jacobs) Calvin Castillo (BIA) Margie Begay (NDOT) Willie Tracey Jr (NTS) Rick Powers (Jacobs) Kirk Arviso (Apache County) Garren Burbank Thomas Benally (NDOT) Rod Wigman Lacking of lighting along roadways is a major concern for community members Traffic in the month of August is more than the typical yearly average Vegetation along roadways needs to be removed There are two bridges along the study roadways. BIA staff mentioned that both bridges are eligible for replacement. The bridge on N7 does not include a walkway for pedestrians which is potentially unsafe Navajo DOT staff asked that the census block population by the hospital be verified Garren Burbank from Navajo DOT will provide crash data Margie Begay will provide the RSA report that was completed for one of the study roads/intersections RSA recommends roundabouts or traffic signals at all critical intersections Coordinate with NTUA about roadway and utility issues Pedestrian and bicycle facilities are needed throughout the study roads. N12, N110 should be a priority Exclusive turning lanes are needed for the NTUA road intersection and other major cross streets Emergency pullouts are needed especially on two lane roads Striping is completely faded and needs to be addressed. Because of limited funding, BIA is focused on unpaved roads and unable to perform regular maintenance on existing paved roads including striping the roads Willie Tracy Jr asked the following questions: o Q: What is the study timeframe? A: The study will be completed in February 2014 o Q: Is this the time to identify bus stops? 1 Apache County Planning Assistance for Rural Areas Project ADOT-MPD Task Assignment 029-13 A: Yes o Q: Why isn't land use representative in the meeting? o A: Land use folks will be part of another stakeholder meeting               o Q: What are the next steps? A: The study team will compile a comprehensive list of deficiencies and needs based on stakeholder feedback and technical analysis. The results will then be presented to the public Speeding is a major concern on all roads. Consider enforcement Sidewalks and lighting are needed at school zones N12/N54 intersection is congested in peak hours and around noon time Drainage issues exist at N12/N110 intersection Pedestrian crossing is needed along N110 in the vicinity of the Youth Center N110/N112 intersection needs to be signalized. Very unsafe Sometimes flooding occurs on N112 Extend N7 corridor to the hilltop on the west end Signage needs to be replaced because of reflectivity concerns. Guard rails should also be reflective N7 west of N7/N112 is in really bad condition and is difficult to drive during winter conditions Pedestrian crossings are needed at school zones, IHS, and NTUA intersections Lighting needs to be added at intersections - N12/N110, N7/N112, N12/N7, N112/N110 Special events generate significantly high traffic volumes - Graduation, Annual Fair Bus shelters are needed at bus stops MEETING 2 (10:30 AM – 12:00 PM) SUMMARY Attendees:      Don Sneed (ADOT PM) Vamshi Yellisetty (Jacobs) Daniel Wauneka (NTUA) Rick Powers (Jacobs) Kirk Arviso (Apache County) Rod Wigman (ADOT) NTUA has plans to relocate to a new facility to be built in the vicinity of the IHS hospital. The new building is expected to be completed by 2015. The existing NTUA campus will still be used at lower staffing levels Street naming should be addressed NTUA will provide a GIS data of utilities NTUA Driveway/N12 intersection is congested in mornings and evenings. Especially when utility bills are due. Intersection also has sight distance issues Need pedestrian crossing on N12 between N110 and N54 2 Apache County Planning Assistance for Rural Areas Project ADOT-MPD Task Assignment 029-13  Elderly homes facility is planned at the northwest corner of N7/N12 MEETING 3 (1:00 PM – 2:30 PM) SUMMARY Attendees:            Don Sneed (ADOT PM) Vamshi Yellisetty (Jacobs) Zondra Bitsuie (FD Chapter) Antonio Cook (Navajo DPS) Craig Calvert (IHS) Rick Powers (Jacobs) Kirk Arviso (Apache County) Rod Wigman (ADOT) David Tibbs (IHS) Icing on the roadways in the months of January and February causes unsafe driving conditions Raised median should be considered to prevent sliding into opposing traffic during winter months The hospital is in a floodplain There is no turn lane into the High School N7/N12, N12/N110, N112/N110 intersections experience congestion N54 might have more truck traffic than other roadways Bicycle mode needs to be made a higher priority No shoulder on N110 results in vehicles stopping on the road during emergencies Speed limits need to be reviewed and enforced At N12/N110 intersection, accessing the Conoco gas station is an issue by traffic coming from Window Rock Zondra helped identify several proposed new commercial, industrial, and residential developments within the study area MEETING 4 (3:00 PM – 4:30 PM) SUMMARY Attendees:     Don Sneed (ADOT PM) Vamshi Yellisetty (Jacobs) Andrea Chase (NHA) Brian Reed (NHA) Rick Powers (Jacobs) Kirk Arviso (Apache County) Rod Wigman (ADOT) Alexious Becenti (Navajo Forestry) NHA mentioned that housing is not sufficient Brian identified some potential new developments in the study area A comprehensive plan development land use plan was just completed by NHA and is available for download at Hooghan.org Lack of lighting, faded striping, and lack of pedestrian and sidewalks are major issues 3 A PP E NDIX B . P HAS E 1 PU BLIC O UTR EACH S UMMARY R E PORT Public Meeting One Summary Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study August 2013 Prepared by Arizona Department of Transportation 1 Public Meeting One Summary Introduction Apache County, the Fort Defiance Chapter and the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) are collaborating to conduct a traffic circulation study for the Fort Defiance Industrial Area that will result in a transportation improvement plan that will promote safety and mobility, enhance economic vitality, improve community livability, encourage environmental and cultural sensitivity, and support current and planned economic development. Public Meeting To inform and involve community members of the study, ADOT hosted a public meeting at the Fort Defiance Chapter House on Wednesday, August 7, 2013 from 5-7 p.m. Staff present at the meeting included Rick Powers and Vamshi Yellisetty (Jacobs Engineering), Don Sneed, Tony Staffaroni, Rod Wigman and Kee Yazzie (ADOT), Kirk Arviso, Lewis Shirley and Tom White (Apache County), Ben Bennett and Margie Begay (Navajo Dept. of Transportation), and Zondra Bitsuie (Fort Defiance Chapter President). In addition to a presentation, there was an opportunity for Q&A, comments and recommendations on areas for improvement. In total, 12 members of the community were in attendance. Newspaper Advertisement A newspaper advertisement providing the date and location of the public meeting was published in the following newspaper: Navajo Times (July 4)-published at this date to meet a BIA requirement of 30 day notification A copy of the advertisement can be found in Appendix A. Radio Forum In addition to the newspaper advertisement, representatives from Jacobs, ADOT and Apache County participated in a radio forum on July 24 from 6-8 p.m. on KTNN radio which serves the Fort DefianceWindow Rock and surrounding areas of the Navajo Nation. The study was discussed, questions were answered and community input and participation was encouraged in the study as well as the public meeting held on August 7. Presentation and Meeting Materials A Power Point presentation was given at the meeting, and a comment form was provided to each attendee of the meeting. The following comments/questions were received during the presentation: Speeding is a major issue and is not enforced Animals on the road is an issue/concern Streets are sand and mud covered and get flooded when it rains Wellness or health trails are needed for the people exercising in the area Buses stop on the roadway blocking traffic and creating unsafe conditions 2 Public Meeting One Summary Question: What will traffic flow be like with the new sports facility o Response: We are working with the School District to obtain a copy of the Traffic Impact Study and design plans. The next step will be to assess if the proposed improvements are sufficient to handle the stadium traffic. Pedestrian use needs to be taken into consideration A copy of the comment form can be found in Appendix B of this report. Comments received on display boards can be found in Appendix C. Comment Form Summary The following comments were received and returned via the comment form that was provided at the public meeting. All comments received are included in this summary. What specific goals should this study focus on? Upon the roads throughout the community. Planning of streets-street lights. Maintenance of the roads. Safety of the traveling public which includes more traffic regulation signs and pedestrian signs. Improved roads, pedestrian walkways, bike trails and the safety of all. Safety. Keep livestock off highway esp. at night Growth and traffic movement Create a safe environment for pedestrians, vehicles, and livestock and domestic animals. The maintenance of all the roads. Naming the streets and keep the same title and not change them. The traffic flow on all roads. Are there any additional current transportation issues that need to be addressed? I see a lot of surface treatment in the area of the study when the pavement structure is overlooked. A re-construction or rehab is needed on the pavement typical. The main roads should be maintained like marking of the lanes, road signs, and the traffic lights. Keeping the road side clear of high weeds-keeping the curbs clear so water can drain. Keeping livestock off the roadways. Improved areas for public transportation to pick up, drop off pedestrians. Also need safe turn around areas. Road stripes need to be kept up to date. Scenic-byway Create barriers to slow down speeding and to stop rural horses. The road sides need to be cleaned the weeds get tall especially when the sidewalls is close to the wood. The weeds should be cut on the shoulder of the road to discourage cows from feeding on them. Perhaps having speed bumps will slow the cars down. I think if people are charged with speeding, having to pay or go to court might make them pay attention to speed signs. Developing areas for bus stops and signs parted for bus stops. 3 Public Meeting One Summary What do you see as your top three transportation issues right now in the Fort Defiance community? The speed people have driving through the community. The making of highway-turning lanes. Traffic lights at intersections. Erect all signs that have been damaged or removed. Use thermo-plastic striping paint as oppose to water based. Improve traffic lighting system with current FHWA standard. Unsafe roads Unsafe/lack of pedestrian walkways No street lights Unsafe walking areas for exercising No roadway stripes Streetlights Striping Speeding from old hospital to intersection. Safe paths for pedestrians. Awareness for feral and domestic animals The speed of traffic through the community. The roads need to be marked for lanes, cross walks. Street light, majority of people wear black colored clothes and it is hard to see them. What solutions would you suggest for the issues presented? The community leaders need to work with law enforcement roads department. Continue traffic studies and get community involvement. Work through Ft. Def. Chapter and the community for development of appropriate pedestrian walk ways. Enforce traffic laws. More lights along RT 12. Safe walking areas. Wellness path! More maintenance funds Putting a rumble strip and speed bumps from old hospital to intersection. Replace missing signage. Cooperation with road department and law enforcement. Please specify what you believe are the priority transportation needs within the Fort Defiance community. Traffic lights at interchanges at school- well marked lanes @ hospital traffic lights at NTUA, high school turn off. Need to enforce traffic laws in the school zones and in the main roadways in the community. Need street lights along main roadways and sidewalks. Excessive water ponding during monsoon and winter season between 7-2-11 to NTUA Widen pavement structures where needed. 4 Public Meeting One Summary Improve pavement typical section not base on funding increase in traffic volume. Safe, effective traffic flow at congestion areas Street lights Safe pedestrian/bike walkways throughout the community esp. schools, health, and business sites. School bus stops need to be moved Lights and improved intersections Well marked lanes, crosswalks and turning lanes at NTUA the Post Office, Hospital and schools. Walking path from highway 110 to Rt 7; Rt 112 to hospital from hospital to Rt7 to Rt 112 to high school. Sidewalks from H.S. to corner station both sides of the road. Street lights from 12 to 110 intersection up to the Post Office. What transportation issues do you think the Fort Defiance community will face 20 years from now? Same traffic problems more cars = people have to drive to their jobs. Commuting is expanding/growing. Need an enhanced transportation system to accommodate this growth. Every person has two or more vehicles and the population will increase with traffic which a good road maintains is required. Too many vehicles on the road To account for a rural and very pedestrian usage in our community. The same, in the 60 years that I’ve been in the community I’ve seen Ft. Defiance change. All the trading posts, garages, cafes disappear because of the red tape of having a business. The main employers are changing BIA, IHS and giving the tribe the 638 programs. What can be done now to prepare for the future (the next 20 years)? Better planning of businesses sites. Tribe has offices all over the place. A plan to establish housing. Organize the community with street names and make use of rural addresses. Continue traffic volume studies and get community involved for major concerns. Keep marking on highway. Maybe traffic lights esp. during school time. People don’t respect the speed limit in school zone. Keeping data on growth and accidents. Create an infrastructure to keep ahead of these issues. To get people action in community offices. Informing community of meetings. Formation of committees. There are limited community bulletin boards in places like P.O., hospital, fueling station, to keep community informed. It was by accident that I found out about this meeting. Street lights near congestion areas, schools, hospitals and major businesses. 5 Public Meeting One Summary Do you have any additional comments you wish to share with the project team? Thank you for educating us with your study. Also need to enhance water supply, utility, etc. suggest collaborating with their utilities in area to develop a well arranged, structured community development system. Connecting to understand there will be increased health care delivery system, business, and housing, improved fire dept. etc. People are taking short cuts behind Conoco Gas Station. More people are using old Sawmill Road for walking-jogging… this needs some upgraded evening times for safety. A recommendation of AZDOT to make an effort to create awareness of public and traffic safety to the community. This would address speeding and unsafe drivers. Flood Plain, Navajo Nation Emergency Plan at one time came up with potential flooding in Ft. Defiance Valley. Safety of Dam, N.N. water development were involved. Is present safety of dam is rebuilding the Red Lake Dam located @ Navajo, NM. In power point flood plain was covered, but safety of dam had a bigger area of potential flooding. It could be nice to make improvements on all the roads in Ft. Defiance, especially into the housing areas and the routes between the main roadways. Building curbs on the main roadways in the community and weeds and trees be manicured well. Right now there are many dead trees that line Rt 110. And the tree garbage are close to utility lines. We have been lucky that they have not been struck by lightning. 6 Public Meeting One Summary Appendix A 7 Public Meeting One Summary Appendix B 8 Public Meeting One Summary Appendix C 9 Public Meeting One Summary 10 A PP E NDIX C. P HAS E 2 S TAK EHO L DE R OU TR EACH SU MMAR Y R EP ORT Apache County Planning Assistance for Rural Areas Project ADOT-MPD Task Assignment 029-13 Date: 10/16/2013 Time: 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM Navajo Nation Location: Teleconference Stakeholder Input Meetings – Round 2 Don Sneed and Kirk Arviso opened each meeting with introductions and turn the time over to Jacobs for presentation and discussion. Rick Powers gave an update on the study purpose, progress to date, future activities and the need for stakeholder input. He also summarized the study area transportations issues that were presented to the public at the August 8 th meeting. Vamshi Yellisetty then gave a presentation of recommended improvement strategies including intersection options for signal or round-about, street lighting options, Safety strategies for school zones, speed transition safety concepts, fencing improvements, roadway pavement preservation, bridge replacement options, striping and shoulder widening ideas. Multimodal improvements presented included; pedestrian and bicycle facilities, trails, and repair of damaged sidewalks. Transit improvements included review of growth areas, bus stops, bus shelters, and potential bus pullouts. The final topic presented was a summary of recommended street cross section types for all study roads. The remaining project schedule was presented to the group. MEETING 1 (8:30 – 10:00 AM) SUMMARY Attendees: See Sign-In Sheet Stakeholder Meeting Discussion           The group was in favor of a round-about at the N112/N110 intersection. The preferred option for the N12/N110 intersection was to upgrade the existing signalization, pedestrian crossings and raised medians. The participants preferred the LED dark skies friendly lighting option. The school zone improvements were well received, the main concern was the impact to snowplows and the high level of maintenance for any pavement markings. There was not a strong feeling either way on the HAWK system. They support any way to help reduce the traffic speeds in the school zones. Pedestrian/students have been observed crossing the road at various locations along the roadway. The group agreed with the need for fencing and cattle guard improvements on the study roads. Vegetation removal is also needed along selected corridors. The pavement is in need of repair. 1 Apache County Planning Assistance for Rural Areas Project ADOT-MPD Task Assignment 029-13       Pavement re-striping is sorely needed in the area. The BIA is moving to adopt similar striping requirements as ADOT. Thermoplastic striping will be used. Still concern of the snowplow and cinder abrasion damage to the striping. The group liked the idea of having a circular route for use by bicycle and pedestrians. They were in favor of the separated multi-use paths were they can be constructed. Agreed bus turnouts are needed, as the busses currently stop in the middle of the road at some stops. The bridges are prioritized by the BIA and the Fort Defiance structures will have to wait until they move up the priority list to be included for replacement. Maintenance and fee agreement will need to be worked out for the street lights. MEETING 2 (10:15 – 11:30 AM) SUMMARY Attendees: See Sign-In Sheet See Sign-In Sheet Stakeholder Meeting Discussion         A bus stop/pull out is recommended at the high school as some students ride the bus to school. The round-about is a good idea at the N12/N110 intersection. The signal appears to be the best solution at N12/N110 intersection. There are plans to establish a bus stop at the Fort Defiance High School. The current bus stops are ok. The BIA prefers the stops are beyond the R/W that may be difficult to accomplish. Agreed that an internal circulator route is not needed at this time. Bus pullouts would be great, currently the bus stop in the road at several locations. Bus shelters would also be appreciated by the riders. MEETING 3 (1:00 – 1:45 PM) SUMMARY Attendees: See Sign-In Sheet Stakeholder Meeting Discussion This meeting was scheduled primarily for discussion with the school district to discuss school zone safety strategies and the proposed improvements associated with the new stadium construction.    No real preference on the round-about, agrees with our recommendation. Discussion of the speeds through the school zones, this is a real concern to the school district. There are approximately 25students, 1800 are bused to school. 2 Apache County Planning Assistance for Rural Areas Project ADOT-MPD Task Assignment 029-13    The traffic calming suggestions look like great ideas and will be discussed internally with school staff. The flashing lights are currently helping to slow down traffic. The grand opening for the new stadium is January 18 th. There are improvements to the existing access to the stadium being done at this time. A secondary access is needed and should be recommended in this study. We will look at short-term and long-term access options. MEETING 4 (2:15 – 3:30 PM) SUMMARY Attendees: See Sign-In Sheet Stakeholder Meeting Discussion         No consensus on the round-about option at N112/N110 intersection, maybe a slight edge in favor of Round-about at N112/N110, signal is preferred at N12?N110. Concern about the maintenance responsibility for the roads and improvements. The maintenance responsibility will be identified in the final report. Concern about the speed of the traffic throughout the study area. The dark sky friendly lighting is preferred, again maintenance is a concern. The traffic calming alternatives all look good, no consensus on the preferred treatments. Fencing of the roads is needed. The trials are a good idea, would prefer trail access extended up to the hospital area. The street cross-section types look great, the separated path is preferred when possible. The final meeting adjourned at 3:30 Navajo Nation Time. 3 A PP E NDIX D. P HAS E 2 PU BLIC O UTR EACH S UMMARY R E PORT Public Meeting Two Summary Fort Defiance Industrial Area Traffic Circulation Study February 2014 Prepared by Arizona Department of Transportation 1 Public Meeting Two Summary Introduction Apache County, the Fort Defiance Chapter and the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) are collaborating to conduct a traffic circulation study for the Fort Defiance Industrial Area that will result in a transportation improvement plan that will promote safety and mobility, enhance economic vitality, improve community livability, encourage environmental and cultural sensitivity, and support current and planned economic development. Public Meeting To inform and involve community members of the study, ADOT hosted a public meeting at the Fort Defiance Chapter House on Wednesday, January 8, 2014 from 5-7 p.m. Staff present at the meeting included Rick Powers and Vamshi Yellisetty (Jacobs Engineering), Don Sneed, Rod Wigman and Kee Yazzie (ADOT), Kirk Arviso, Lewis Shirley and Tom White (Apache County), Ben Bennett and Margie Begay (Navajo Dept. of Transportation), and Zondra Bitsuie (Fort Defiance Chapter President). In addition to a presentation, there was an opportunity for Q&A, comments and recommendations on areas for improvement. In total, 36 members of the community were in attendance. A copy of the signin sheets can be found in Appendix A. Newspaper Advertisement A newspaper advertisement providing the date and location of the public meeting was published in the following newspaper: Navajo Times (December 5)-to meet the BIA 30 day requirement A copy of the advertisement can be found in Appendix B. Presentation and Meeting Materials A Power Point presentation was given at the meeting, and a comment form was provided to each attendee of the meeting. At the conclusion of the formal presentation, Kirk Arviso, Apache County Administrative Coordinator, and Tom White, Apache County Supervisor, provided closing comments as well as Chapter President Bitsuie. In addition to thanking the community members present for their participation, Jacobs Engineering and ADOT staff were also thanked for their work and efforts on this study as well as efforts ADOT conducts on Statewide Tribal Transportation Planning and Consultation. Next steps were shared, including pursuing funding, forming partnerships and more participation between various agencies and the community as a whole. The following comments/questions were received from meeting attendees during and after the presentation (including comments left on display boards): A bus top needs to be located near the N7/N112 intersection due to it being congested at times. This would be for school buses only and for the safety of students. This should be part of the first phase. Also, near the old hospital and N7, people walk in that area and improvements are needed there. 2 Public Meeting Two Summary There needs to be a walking trail between N112 and N12 along the creek. A lot of students walk to Window Rock High School. The study needs to adequately address needs from a business perspective, in particular accesses to businesses in the Fort Defiance area. The study should consider photo enforcement as another method for addressing speeding in the Fort Defiance area. The Navajo Forestry Department wants to ensure that environmental issues are adequately addressed in the study final report. The Dept. may have submitted comments, if not they will be forwarded via email. Short-Mid-Long Term Improvements board: o Use Department of Corrections labor to build fence and other minor work. o Consider partnerships Intersection Improvements board: o The roundabout at N112/N110 would make a nice entry into the historic part of town o The majority of the public preferred option 2-roundabout for the N112/N110 intersection. Pedestrian, Bicycle, Transit and Trail Improvements board: o Consider a trail extending from Bryant Farm Road to Window Rock High School. o Consider a transit stop on N7 near Old Crystal Road intersection. o Consider using magnesium chloride, Polymer, soil cement that is chip sealed for the shared use path to reduce costs. Apache County Supervisor White asked how the funding task would be covered. o Response: There will be a plan for implementation section in the final report that identifies funding resources and that projects can be cross referenced with potential sources that the Chapter and County can pursue for implementation of the recommended priority projects. A copy of the comment form can be found in Appendix C of this report. Comments received on comment forms can be found in Appendix D. Comment Form Summary The following comments were received and returned via the comment form that was provided at the public meeting. All comments received are included in this summary. Intersection Improvements N112/N110 Option 1: This will greatly improve traffic and minimize any confusion to intersection and an optimizer can be placed. N112/N110 Option 1: Good N112/N110 Option 2: Not good for speeding-no enforcement at all. N12/N110: Placing optimizer in all intersections would greatly assist emergency vehicles when responding. N12/N110: Good 3 Public Meeting Two Summary Lighting Improvements Much needed light along all roads and should be placed immediately for safety concerns. Who replaces broken poles, bulbs? NN Police don’t even change the damages. Traffic Calming In hopes the long term improvements will occur. School zone is too long, hardly any children crossing or walking that part of the road. No enforcement. Pedestrian/Bicycle Improvements Asphalt shared path will be exceptional in our area. Any markers for pedestrian pathways? Roadway Cross Sections and Streetscaping Concepts One: Good Two: Good Three: Good Four: Good Is there anything missing that should be considered?: Who is to maintain all the improvements to these over the years? Is there anything missing that should be considered?: Fire Dept. concerns are no safety area for vehicles to yield to all emergency vehicles. If this can be corrected, will increase safety for all. General Comments The study includes some recommendations for pedestrians flashing crosswalks outside the middle school and the high school. We think these are essential to safety of our children and adults in our town. Additionally, it should be noted that significant pedestrian foot traffic occurs between the east entrance to our neighborhood and the Conoco gas station. It is also a dangerous, unpainted intersection which may be busier than even the post office/chapter house intersection (because of retail traffic at Conoco and foot traffic). We think there should be a crosswalk or intersection rehabilitation there in addition to the other intersection improvements/plans in the study. Rez Refuge Ministries submitted a packet of ten comment forms along with some photos of potholes in the area: You'll see in our envelope that most of the comments come from Rio Puerco residents demanding that we have no more potholes in our neighborhood. Residents from age 6 to 70 included comments. Most of the comments are from teenagers who are taking ownership of their neighborhood and working for positive changes in safety, cooperation, and new creative projects. 4 Public Meeting Two Summary Appendix A 5 Public Meeting Two Summary 6 Public Meeting Two Summary 7 Public Meeting Two Summary Appendix B 8 Public Meeting Two Summary Appendix C 9 Public Meeting Two Summary Appendix D 10 Public Meeting Two Summary 11 Public Meeting Two Summary 12 Public Meeting Two Summary 13 Public Meeting Two Summary 14 Public Meeting Two Summary 15 Public Meeting Two Summary 16 Public Meeting Two Summary 17 Public Meeting Two Summary 18 Public Meeting Two Summary 19 Public Meeting Two Summary 20 Public Meeting Two Summary 21 Public Meeting Two Summary 22