the project. Robbie Young asked for clarification on the change in the
resolution. CM Neumann stated it was a minor wording change for clarity on
funding responsibilities. CM Neumann asked staff if the possibility of a
protected bike path over Cass St or Cameron St bridge was part of the project.
Staff stated it is not part of the Wagon Wheel Trail project. Robbie Young
moved to approve the resolution. Stephanie Sward seconded. The motion
passed 6-0 by voice vote.
Discussion on the RAISE Grant Program and possible grant projects.
3.
Staff provided a summary of possible RAISE Grant opportunity. Jackie
Eastwood from the LAPC stated that you cannot use federal funds to match
federal funds. Staff stated they talked with coordinator of the grant who
indicated we could use both funds. Staff indicated they would look into this
again and contact WisDOT. Randi Pueschner stated this project is a priority for
the Wisconsin Bike Fed and they might be willing to help with funding. Staff
stated that there was interest from Minnesota to help with funding as well.
Stephanie Sward stated that the minimum for an urban area $4 million. Staff
clarified that La Crosse urbanized area is considered rural per this grant which
means our minimum is $1 million. Stephanie Sward asked to clarify the
deadline. Staff stated the deadline is February 28, 2023. CM Sleznikow stated it
would be a good idea to ask other departments if they are applying and if they
have good ideas for projects. Robbie Young asked when the deadline for
finding grant opportunities for the Wagon Wheel Trail would be. Staff stated
grant money for construction could be applied for in 2024 and 2025, but design
will be under a tighter deadline as we lead up to 2026 construction.
Review of Request For Expressions of Interest (RFEI) and Development of a
Request For Proposals (RFP) for the Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan
Update.
4.
Staff provided an update on RFEI submittals. CM Sleznikow asked what the
timeline for the RFP submission would be. Staff clarified they would suggest
about a 3-4 weeks for firms to complete and submit a proposal. Staff asked
committee members if there is anything that stood out in the RFEIs that they
want to incorporate in the RFP. Randi Pueschner asked if the RFP should
include specific examples or be more vague regarding the scope of work. Staff
stated if there is something specific that we want then we should include it in
the RFP. Randi Pueschner stated she wanted to add more specifics about
data-driven analysis and safety analysis including Streetlight, Replica, or
Strava. Randi Peuschner said she also was wondering about the NACTO
guidelines and said one RFEI said we should expand on it. Staff stated they
have to check with WisDOT about regulations of grant and if they are able to
expand on that. CM Sleznikow said a concern about NACTO was that some of
the infrastructure already in the City would have to be adjusted. CM Sleznikow
suggested adding an approach to active living and 8-80 approach to the RFP
scope of work. CM Sleznikow suggested going through the RFP page by page
to for the commission to suggest edits. CM Sleznikow, Stephanie Sward, and
Randi Peuschner, and Jackie Eastwood had suggested edits to update
potential partners. Stephanie Sward suggested providing the file cloud link on
request for digital submissions. Staff stated they planned on digital submission
only and commission members agreed with this form of submission. Robbie
Young brought up a question from one of the RFEIs about the requirements to
be in compliance with Wisconsin DOT requirements. Robbie Young asked if the
City is limiting itself due to this requirement. Staff said they believe it is a
requirement of Wisconsin DOT grant the City received for the update for this
plan. Francis Schelfout from Wisconsin DOT said he is not sure if this is a
requirement. Staff said they would look further into this. CM Sleznikow
