North Point Area & Alpha Loop Trail Feasibility Study by MKSK

North Point Area And Alpha Loop Trail Connectivity Feasibility Study Adopted: November 2020

Contributors North Point Area And Alpha Loop Trail Connectivity Feasibility Study City of Alpharetta

Atlanta Regional Commission

Mayor Jim Gilvin

Jared Lombard, AICP | Senior Principal Planner

Donald Mitchell | Post 1, City Council (Mayor Pro Tem) Ben Burnett | Post 2, City Council

Consultant Team

Karen Richard | Post 3, City Council

Darren Meyer, PLA, AICP | MKSK

John Hipes | Post 4, City Council

Donald Zellefrow | MKSK

Jason Binder | Post 5, City Council

Barrett Armstrong, PLA | MKSK

Dan Merkel | Post 6, City Council

Haoting Shi | MKSK

Kathi Cook | Community Development Director

Kristina Granlund | MKSK

Michael Woodman, AICP | Senior Planner

Addie Weber, AICP | Toole Design Group

Eric Graves, PE | Senior Engineer

Tom Natwick, PE | Toole Design Group

Ben Kern | GIS Specialist/Planner

Savannah Langkamp, PE | Toole Design Group

Elle Taylor | Planning and Zoning Coordinator Morgan Rodgers | Recreation, Parks & Cultural Services Director

The opinions, findings, and conclusions in this publication are those of the author(s) and not necessarily of the Department of Transportation, State of Georgia or the Federal Highway Administration. Prepared in cooperation with the Department of Transportation, Federal Highway Administration and the Atlanta Regional Commission.

Table of Contents North Point Area And Alpha Loop Trail Connectivity Feasibility Study

p1 Section 01 -

Introduction

p11 Section 02 -

Analysis

p31 Section 03 -

Conceptual Alignment

p61 Section 05 -

Cost & Constructability

p75 Section 06 -

Appendix

Introduction Section 01

Purpose Improving Quality-of-Life by Connecting Communities Alpha Loop (Northwinds Parkway) As the Alpha Loop continues to take shape in the heart of Alpharetta, it is poised to provide significant economic and community benefit to the City and region. This signature pedestrian and bicycle trail is already proving to be a catalyst for economic development, a signature quality-of-life amenity, and a step towards transportation equity â&#x20AC;&#x201C; accommodating universal modes of transportation (walking and biking) while reducing reliance on the automobile. The value of this trail system is significant for internal trips whin Alpharetta, i.e., linking Avalon with Downtown Alpharetta, but also has tremendous potential benefit for its ability to enhance regional connectivity. By providing links to existing regional trail systems such as the Big Creek Greenway, future trails such as Path400, and planned transit services (MARTA Bus Rapid Transit), the Alpha Loop gives the Alpharetta community the opportunity to strengthen its connectivity and access to the wider metro area, which is critical for long-term economic stability.

Big Creek Greenway

North Point Mall (Future Redevelopment)

The feasibility study explores a multi-use trail connection between the Big Creek Greenway, the Alpha Loop, and North Point Mall.

Alpha Loop Avalon

GA 4

Downtown Alpharetta

Northwinds Proposed MARTA Bus Rapid Transit Station

“Alpha Link”

kwy

North Point Mall

de P

tsi s e W

kwy

oint P orth P

Big Creek Greenway 0

40 A G

Ha yn

Approach A Creative & Collaborative Approach to Trail Design

While the benefits of the Alpha Loop are significant, the challenges of routing a public trail system through a highly-developed area are complex. Trail planning, like all thoroughfare planning, involves a wide range of stakeholders, complex real estate strategies, transportation mode conflicts, environmental obstacles (and opportunities), and engineering challenges. The successful implementation of the Alpha Loop extension will require a highly collaborative and creative approach. Throughout the planning process the team worked closely with the various stakeholders whose support will be needed to help achieve the vision - municipal staff and officials, ARC, GDOT, MARTA, business owners, investors, and the greater Alpharetta community.

e tt a C o m m r a un ph l ity A

Local Residents

Trail Users

Businesses

Cycling Community

Property Owners

Local Stakeholders

Planning Team

PLANNING, TRAIL DESIGN, PLACEMAKING & PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT

MULTI-MODAL PLANNING & TECHNICAL ANALYSIS

Process A Nine-Month, Four-Phase Effort

The planning effort involved a nine-month-long process divided into four major tasks. Task 1: Data Collection & Analysis In Task 1, the team collected data and performed technical analyses to develop a thorough & nuanced understanding of the project area.

Winter

Spring

Task 3: Conceptual Plan & Alternative Alignment Analysis In Task 3, the team developed a draft conceptual plan featuring alternative greenway alignments as well as recommendations for trailheads and amenities, placemaking opportunities, cost estimates, and connections to nearby destinations. Task 4: Project Deliverables In Task 4, the team refined the concept based on community input, refined and finalized recommendations, and prepared a final report with supporting exhibits detailing the vision for the Alpha Loop.

Fall

Task 1 Data Collection & Analysis Virtual Public Meeting #1

Task 2: Public Engagement In Task 2, the team involved local residents, businesses, property owners, key stakeholders and trail users in the planning process. This task ran for the entirety of the planning process and involved multiple creative forms of engagement.

Summer

Project Website Launch

Public Meeting #2 Plan Delivery

Task 2 Public Engagement

Task 3 Conceptual Plan & Alternative Alignment Analysis

Task 4 Project Deliverables

Community Engagement Forging Connections, Building Community Strong public engagement is a hallmark of Alpharetta’s community-based planning and design approach. The success of the public visioning process is a critical step in building understanding, support, and ownership that will ultimately lead to effective implementation across time. In the wake of the COVID-19 outbreak, the planning team adapted it’s engagement strategy to prioritize the health and well-being of the Alpharetta community. Virtual Public Meeting #1 Out of respect for social distancing, Public Meeting #1 transitioned to an online format designed to introduce participants to the planning study and provide a space to share ideas for the North Point area’s expanding trail network through a series of surveys and mapping exercises. Coupled with this digital engagement, was an analog intercept survey consisting of postcards mailed to area residents and yard signs placed throughout the study area. These postcards and signs contained project information and discussion prompts that invited residents into the planning process and met them where they were at during the early phases of the COVID-19 outbreak. Public Meeting #2 Public Meeting #2 was held outdoors on Wednesday, July 29th at Morrison Lake in the project study area. Upon arrival, participants were invited to take a stroll around Morrison Lake and visit a series of thematic stations to discuss the project and share ideas for its future. To broaden the project’s exposure and make the process more accessible, an online survey was made available so those not in attendance had an opportunity to make their voices heard. The online survey was open from July 29th - August 7th. Stakeholder Engagement The team conducted virtual stakeholder interviews throughout the planning process with property owners, developers, advocacy groups, regulatory agencies (GDOT, MARTA, etc), as well as elected officials and city staff. These meetings allowed the planning team to listen, learn, and understand the key issues at play in the study area, as well as share initial research, observations, and design concepts. 7

Screenshot from the Virtual Public Meeting #1 Homepage

The Virtual Public Meeting page has been viewed 1,848 times since it launched on 04/22/2020

1,450 postcards were sent to area residents and 25 yard signs were placed across Alpharetta.

Vision Alpha Link North Point Area & Alpha Loop Trail Connectivity Feasibility Study

The City of Alpharetta is exploring a bicycle and pedestrian connection between the Alpha Loop, North Point Area, & Big Creek Greenway. Visit www.VisionAlphaLink.com to learn more and participate in our Virtual Public Meeting exercises!

I love the Alpha Loop & Big Creek Greenway because... To share your answer head to www.menti.com & use the code 32 96 08 or scan the QR Code Visit www.VisionAlphaLink.com to learn more & participate in our Virtual Public Meeting exercises!

Imagery from the Community Engagement Process

The virtual public meeting vision survey received 180 responses

Imagery from the Community Engagement Process

40 community members joined us for a stroll around the lake at Public Meeting #2

Imagery from the Community Engagement Process

Analysis Section 02

Connectivity

Shaping a Safe, Comfortable, and Diverse Network Haynes Bridge Rd & Georgia 400 Southbound (looking west)

High-volume, widely spaced arterial roads define the spatial structure of the North Point area today. The result is limited route choice, extremely large blocks, and poor walkability/bikeability. These attributes lack the qualities of a livable neighborhood and do not support the goals of creating a vibrant mixed-use environment. The relationship between the Alpha Loop and these thoroughfares will prove a defining factor for the success of this trail project. Despite the auto-oriented nature of the district today, North Point is home to one of the most beloved and well-use bike and pedestrian routes in the region, the Big Creek Greenway. Additionally, a host of planning efforts and policies have resulted in the expansion and improvement of pedestrian, bicycle, and transit infrastructure across the district. Of particular note, is the plans for a MARTA Bus Rapid Transit station to be located at the North Point Mall that will provide residents, employees, and visitors alike the opportunity for multi-modal connections to destinations across the Atlanta metro region. The following pages provide an overview of the mobility networks within the study area. This includes evaluation of the roadway characteristics, pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure, and transit connections. To quantify bicyclist comfort, a Level of Traffic Stress (LTS) analysis was performed. The analysis was conducted based on criteria developed by Peter Furth1, adapted to account for available data and local context.

North Point Pkwy & Encore Pkwy (looking south)

1: Furth, P. Level of Traffic Stress Criteria for Road Segments â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Version 2.0. Northeastern University College of Engineering. June 2017.

Encore Parkway near North Point Parkway (looking north)

North Point Parkway near North Point Market Center (looking south)

Encore Parkway over Georgia 400 (looking north)

Haynes Bridge Road near Georgia 400 Southbound (looking south) 14

Roadway Network Mo

The spatial structure of the North Point area today is characterized by high-volume, widely-spaced arterials with a notable absence of local public streets.

rri

Encore Pkwy

Haynes Bridge Rd

ie Lakev

Alpha Loop

ll Rd

Way Fanfare

Maxwe

kwy

P Westside

Fulton Science Academy

Pkw

“Alpha Link”

Westside Pkwy

ds Pkwy

North Win

400

Mansell Crossing

w re Pk

Enco

400

North Point Mall

Rd e g

r sB

North Poin

t Pkwy

yn Ha

Big Creek Greenway

Freeway (State) Arterial (City of Alpharetta)

North Point Market Center

an Collector (City of Alpharetta) se ll Rd Local (Private and City of Alpharetta)

0’

1600’

Crash Data Mo

rri

The highest concentration of crashes in the study area occur along Haynes Bridge Road.

Encore Pkwy

Haynes Bridge Rd

ie Lakev

Alpha Loop

ll Rd

Way Fanfare

Maxwe

kwy

P Westside

Fulton Science Academy

Pkw

“Alpha Link”

Westside Pkwy

ds Pkwy

North Win

150

400

Mansell Crossing

w re Pk

Enco

400

North Point Mall 23

r sB

d eR

North Poin

t Pkwy

yn Ha

Big Creek Greenway

High Traffic Accidents Area

North Point Market Center

Low Traffic Accidents Area ans e XX

ll R Annual Daily Traffic in Thousandsd

0’

1600’

Walkshed Mo

rri

North Point is home to one of the most beloved and well-used bike and pedestrian routes in the region, the Big Creek Greenway.

Encore Pkwy

Haynes Bridge Rd

ie Lakev

Alpha Loop

ll Rd

Way Fanfare

Maxwe

kwy

P Westside

Fulton Science Academy

Pkw

Alpha Loop

Westside Pkwy

ds Pkwy

North Win

w re Pk

Enco

400

y 400

Mansell Crossing

North Point Mall

Alpha Loop id

Alpha Loop Intersection w/ Crosswalk t Pkwy

yn Ha

Big Creek Greenway

Recreation Paths Sidewalks

r sB

North Poin

Alpha Loop Intersection w/o Crosswalk Big Creek Greenway

Rd e g

North Point Market Center Ma

5 minute Walk From AlphansLoop Intersection e Bike Facilities 17

ll Rd

0’

1600’

Sidewalk Condition Despite the predominant presence of auto-oriented roads and surface parking areas throughout the area, strides are being taken to make North Point a more walkable, bikeable district.

rri

Encore Pkwy

Fulton Science Academy

Pkw

Alpha Loop

Haynes Bridge Rd

ie Lakev

Alpha Loop

ll Rd

Way Fanfare

Maxwe

kwy

P Westside

Westside Pkwy

ds Pkwy

North Win

w re Pk

Enco

400

y 400

Mansell Crossing

North Point Mall

Alpha Loop Good Sidewalk

Fair Sidewalk

t Pkwy

Recreation Paths

yn Ha

Big Creek Greenway

Very Poor Sidewalk

Big Creek Greenway

r sB

North Poin

Poor Sidewalk

Sidewalks Improvements

Rd e g

North Point Market Center Ma

el lR d

Transit Connectivity TO DOWNTOWN Mo

Proposed Bus Rapid Transit along Georgia 400 with a planned station adjacent to the North Point area will dramatically improve connectivity to the district.

rri

Encore Pkwy

MARTA Georgia 400 Bus Rapid Transit (Proposed)

ie Lakev

ll Rd

kwy

P Westside

MARTA Route Fanfare

Way

Haynes Bridge Rd

Maxwe

MARTA Bus Rapid Transit Station (Proposed) w

Fulton Science Alpha 143 Academy

Loop

Pkw

Westside Pkwy

Alpha Loop ds Pkwy

North Win

400

Mansell Crossing

w re Pk

Enco

H ORT TO N STATION INGS SPR

TO WINDWARD PARK & RIDE

North Point Mall

MARTA Route 141

r sB

North Poin

t Pkwy

Rd e g

yn Ha

MARTA Route 140

Big Creek Greenway North Point Market Center

TO ALPHARETTA HIGH SCHOOL

MARTA BRT Stop (Proposed)nse MARTA Bus Stop 19

ll Rd

0’

1600’

Level of TraďŹ&#x192;c Stress Level of TraďŹ&#x192;c Stress Bicycle Level of Traffic Stress DRAFT March 17, 2020

DRAFT March 17, 2020

To quantify bicyclist comfort within the study area, a Level of Traffic Stress (LTS) analysis was performed. The analysis was conducted based on criteria developed by Peter Furth, adapted to account for available data and local context. There are four levels of traffic stress used to describe how appropriate a route is for different types of users.

LTS 2: Comfortable for Most Ages & Abilities There are few existing low-stress bicycle facilities that connect destinations across the district. LTS 4: Suitable for Highly Confident Cyclists

LTS 3: Tolerable for Somewhat Confident Cyclists

LTS 1 LTS 2 LTS 3 LTS LTS14 LTS 2 Outside Analysis Area Street LTS Trail3 Outside Analysis Area LTS 4 Street Outside Analysis Area North Point Area and Alpha Loop Trail Connectivity Feasibility Study Trail Outside Analysis Area

LTS 1: Comfortable for Most Ages & Abilities

North Point Area and Alpha Loop Trail Connectivity Feasibility Study

Development

Catalyzing Development and Serving Community Need 360 Tech Village

Beginning with the North Point areaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first Livable Centers Initiative (LCI) study in 2008, and most recently with the adoption of the North Point Creative Placemaking Plan in 2018, the district has been the focus of many planning efforts and policy initiatives aimed at redefining the district as a green, walkable, mixeduse district. Local property owners and developers in the district are responding to this community-based momentum and to the market demand for more livable places by delivering humanscaled, mixed-use projects with a heavy emphasis on connectivity and a vibrant public realm. The Alpha Loop is an integral part of the connective tissue that binds these individual projects together and a catalyst for attracting investment and serving community needs in this emerging mixed-use district. The following pages provide an overview of active and planned developments, composition of property ownership, and distribution of community facilities within the study area.

North Point Mall Redevelopment

Northwinds Summit

Encore at North Point

Development Mo

The character of the North Point area is being redefined as mixeduse development proliferates across the district.

iso 360 Tech n P Village

Encore Pkwy

Fanfare

Way

Haynes Bridge Rd

Pkwy Westside

ll Rd

Encore Walk

Artisan

Alpha Loop ie Lakev

Maxwe

Fulton Academy Expansion

Alpha Loop

Fulton Science Academy

Pkw

Westside Pkwy

Northwinds Summit ds Pkwy

North Win

400

Mansell Crossing

Encore Commons

w re Pk

400

Enco

Encore At Northpoint

North Point Mall

Ecco Park Mall Development

r sB

e yn a H Chick-fil-a

North Poin

t Pkwy

Big Creek Greenway

Studio Movie Grill

Rd e g

Stormwater Park

North Point Market Center Ma

el lR d

0’

1600’

Property Ownership Mo

rri

Private property owners control much of the land along the conceptual trail alignment.

Village Creative Labs Partners LP

Blue Ventures LLC

kwy

BRI 1870 North Point LLC

Wachovia Bank of Georgia

Mansell Crossing Retail LP

PSREG Westside LLC

CMC Homes LLC

Fulton Science Academy Private School Inc

Truglobe Inc

TWV TPA GA 400 LLC

Northwinds Land LLC

Pkw

Alpha Loop

Way Fanfare

Westside Pkwy

ds Pkwy

North Win

Enco

w re Pk

400

P Westside

Haynes Bridge Rd

ie Lakev

NPMC Retail, LLC

Alpha Loop

ll Rd

Maxwe

City of Alpharetta

6 17

American Honda Motor CO LLC

Alpha Z-Boy Partners LP

Hollywood Camarillo Partners LP

CORD North Point LLC

TRATON Homes LLC

WRPV XI PA Alpharetta LLC

Westwood Park Neighborhood Assoc.

Creekside Holbrooke LLC Other LCI Study Parcel

Encore Pkwy

4 3

r sB

North Poin

t Pkwy

Rd e g

yn Ha

el lR d 0’

1600’

Community Assets North Point possesses significant opportunities for retail, residential, office, recreation, and cultural uses & activities. Alpha Loop

Fulton Science Academy Alpha Loop

North Point Mall

Future Stormwater Park

Mansell Crossing

Big Creek Greenway

Entertainment Restaurant

North Point Market Center

Target (Grocery & Pharmacy)

Shopping Schools Parks

0â&#x20AC;&#x2122;

1600â&#x20AC;&#x2122;

Environment

Foregrounding the Nature of North Point Morrison Lake (looking west)

Georgia 400 Buffer (looking north)

North Point Pkwy near the Big Creek Greenway (looking south)

Morrison Lake (looking south)

It is easy to overlook the natural beauty of the North Point area. At first glance it is a sea of surface pavement. However, it is in fact home to some of Alpharettaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s greatest green assets: the riparian corridor of the Big Creek (and its tributaries) and Morrison Lake. The Big Creek, which is enjoyed by the many who travel its meandering banks along the aptly named Big Creek Greenway, holds tremendous ecological and economic value. Morrison Lake, which lies behind the Georgia 400 Center off of Lakeview Parkway is a hidden gem waiting to be uncovered. At roughly 10acres in size it is one of the largest standing bodies of water in Alpharetta and serves home to numerous species of wildlife. In addition to those mentioned above, another green asset waiting to be leveraged can be found within the district. The forested buffer along Georgia 400 serves as a green thread offering the opportunity to connect the many communities and destinations located along this critical corridor. The following pages provide an overview of the natural resources within the study area. This includes exploration of the hydrologic, topographic, and vegetative systems influencing the trail alignment and its experiential qualities.

Aerial image of the Big Creek Greenway

kwy

P To North Point

Rd Big

Cre

ek G

reen way

Gr ee

nw ay

ell s n a M

To Mansell Rd

Bi g

Cr ee

To H

ay n

Big

Cre

idg

eR d

Canopy Cover North Point is home to one of Alpharetta’s greatest green assets: the Big Creek. Additionally, the vegetated buffer along Georgia 400 provides a green thread linking many Alpharetta destinations.

rri

Encore Pkwy

Haynes Bridge Rd

ie Lakev

Alpha Loop

ll Rd

Way Fanfare

Maxwe

kwy

P Westside

Fulton Science Academy

Pkw

Alpha Loop

Westside Pkwy

ds Pkwy

North Win

Enco w re Pk

400

Mansell Crossing

North Point Mall

Rd e g

r sB

North Poin

t Pkwy

yn Ha

Big Creek Greenway North Point Market Center Ma

el lR d

0’

1600’

Hydrology Mo

rri

The Big Creek, its tributaries, and associated floodplain offer potential green linkages across the area.

Encore Pkwy

Morrison Lake ie Lakev

ll Rd

kwy

P Westside

Way Fanfare

Haynes Bridge Rd

Maxwe

Alpha Loop

Fulton Science Academy

Pkw

Alpha Loop

Westside Pkwy

ds Pkwy

North Win

400

Mansell Crossing

w re Pk

Enco

400

North Point Mall

Rd e g

Big Creek

r sB

North Poin

t Pkwy

yn Ha

Big Creek Greenway North Point Market Center

Floodplain Open Water

el lR d

0’

1600’

Elevation The riparian corridor of the Big Creek is the areas low point. There is roughly a 90ft change in elevation from the Haynes Bridge Rd & Georgia 400 intersection to the creek.

rri

Encore Pkwy

Fulton Science Academy

Alpha Loop

kwy Alpha Loop

1010ft

Haynes Bridge Rd

ie Lakev

Way Fanfare

1044ft

1014ft

ll Rd

1036ft

Maxwe

kwy

P Westside

Westside Pkwy

1051ft ds Pkwy

North Win

979ft

400

Mansell Crossing

w re Pk

Enco

400

North Point Mall

998ft Rd e g

North Poin

Big Creek Greenway XX

Elevation High Point Low Point

960ft

r sB

t Pkwy

yn Ha

North Point Market Center Ma

el lR d

0’

1600’

Slope Analysis Mo

rri

Slopes within the area vary greatly and reflect the districts development pattern.

Encore Pkwy

Haynes Bridge Rd

ie Lakev

Alpha Loop

ll Rd

Way Fanfare

Maxwe

kwy

P Westside

Fulton Science Academy

Pkw

Alpha Loop

Westside Pkwy

ds Pkwy

North Win

400

Mansell Crossing

w re Pk

Enco

400

North Point Mall

Rd e g

North Poin

t Pkwy

20-45% 45%+

yn Ha

Big Creek Greenway

5-10% 10-20%

r sB

North Point Market Center Ma

el lR d

0’

1600’

Conceptual Alignment Section 03

The “Alpha Link”

According to the latest National Household Travel Survey (NHTS), approximately 11% of daily trips in the United States are made by walking & about 1% by bicycle.

Connecting the Alpha Loop, North Point Area, and Big Creek Greenway

The Alpha Loop, Alpharetta’s signature pedestrian and bicycle trail, connects destinations and amenities within the City providing a catalyst for economic development, a signature quality-of-life amenity, and a step towards transportation equity within the community.

The North Point Area and Alpha Loop Trail Connectivity Feasibility Study examines the potential link of the Alpha Loop to the Big Creek Greenway, closing a critical gap between two of the communities most beloved and well-used amenities. The Feasibility Study seeks to enhance regional connectivity and multi-modal transportation through a planned link to the future MARTA Bus Rapid Transit service along Georgia 400, which currently is conceived with a transit center in the North Point Mall area. This link strengthens Alpharetta’s connection to the wider metropolitan labor market and also potentially streamlines the commute pattern of residents working outside of the City. The following pages provide an overview of the conceptual alignment of the Alpha Loop and opportunities for placemaking initiatives and open space improvements along its length. To further explore the intricacies of the trail, it has been subdivided into three Focus Areas, reflective of the unique conditions along its route. The design and strategies reflect the rigorous analysis, sustained community engagement, and close coordination with project stakeholders throughout the planning process.

BY AGE

3.99 ft/s

Children & Young Adults

4.84 ft/s

Adults

4.72 ft/s

Senior Adults

BY DISABILITY

The value of this trail system is significant for internal trips within Alpharetta, i.e., linking Avalon with Downtown Alpharetta, but also has tremendous potential benefit for its ability to enhance regional connectivity. The long-range plans for the extension of Path400 would provide a link between North Fulton and Atlanta, and the Alpha Loop’s location along Georgia 400 makes this future link a critical piece of transportation infrastructure. Likewise, the Big Creek Greenway is a 20-mile, multi-jurisdictional trail connecting Alpharetta residents and employees to adjacent communities along the Big Creek.

Hand-Assisted Children

3.81 ft/s

Physically Disabled Physically Disabled

2.62 ft/s

2.07 ft/s

Using Walker

Physically Disabled

NOTE: The speeds shown in this diagram are mean values for each of the groups.

3.55 ft/s

Conceptual Alignment

Alpha Loop

rri

Encore Pkwy

ridge Rd

Westside Pkwy

nes B

ie Lakev

Hay

Main St

ll Rd

kwy

P Westside

Fanfare

Way

Planned BRT Station & Overpass

Maxwe

Downtown Alpharetta

Proposed Connection @ 800-1000’

Alpha Loop Connection

~1000ft

~10m Walkshed

Fulton Science Academy

Pkw

ds Pkwy

North Win

Enco w re Pk

400

Mansell Crossing

North Point Mall

Rd e g

r sB

North Poin

t Pkwy

yn Ha

Big Creek Greenway North Point Market Center Ma

el of more than 3min (600-800 ft) *Crosswalk spacing requiring a walk lR d locations may encourage crossing at unprotected NACTO Urban Street Design Guidelines 0’

40-45m Walk (~8200ft)

20-25m Walk (~4500ft)

30-35m Walk (~6400ft) 1600’

Open Space Inspiration

Mirror Lake

Falls Park

Mirror Lake

Next Edge Tech Park

Ballantrae Park

Mirror Lake

Next Edge Tech Park

Ballantrae Park

James Clarkson Center

Scioto Audubon Metro Park

James Clarkson Center

Scioto Audubon Metro Park

Open space throughout the district is characterized by its minimalist and naturalistic character.

Scioto Audubon Metro Park

Open Space

~10m Walkshed

Alpha Loop

Proposed Connection @ 800-1000’

Alpha Loop Connection rri

Encore Pkwy

Haynes Bridge Rd

Planned BRT Station & Overpass

Morrison Green (~60 Ac) ll Rd Maxwe

Way Fanfare

ie Lakev

kwy

P Westside

Morrison Lake w

Fulton Science Academy

Pkw

Westside Pkwy

ds Pkwy

North Win

Enco w re Pk

400

Mansell Crossing

North Point Mall

Big Creek Greenway

Gateway Park (~5.5 Ac) t Pkwy

r sB

North Poin Big Creek Greenway

Rd e g

yn Ha

North Point Market Center

el lR d

Potential Open Space Resource 0’

1600’

Gateway Inspiration District Threshold Concepts

Wrapped Steel Rebar

Lighting Effects for Safety & Atmosphere

Gateways As part of the North Point Area Creative Placemaking Plan, a series of iconic architectural elements were collaboratively developed with the Alpharetta community. These “District Thresholds” are inspired by the natural environment of the Big Creek Greenway and the larger Piedmont ecoregion. They should be placed at highly visible locations and will serve as icons for navigation and wayfinding within the district.

Leaf Pattern District Branding

30ft

Lighting Effects for Safety & Atmosphere

Plant Material with Seasonal Interest

15ft clearance

The Lattice

The Lattice features an inlaid leaf pattern, raised lettering and is designed to accommodate plant material

The Alpha The Alpha features a dynamic shape reminiscent of the letter “A” and is designed to accommodate plant material.

Trail Amenities

~10m Walkshed

Alpha Loop

Proposed Connection @ 800-1000’

Alpha Loop Connection rri

Encore Pkwy

Haynes Bridge Rd

Planned BRT Station & Overpass

ide Pkwy

Wests

B T

K H w2

B T

w2 T

S K

w re Pk

Mansell Crossing

w2 w2 w2

G1 B

K S C T

K H w2

ds Pkwy

North Win

G2 B

North Point Mall

B T

Rd e g

K H w2

Big Creek Greenway

North Poin

t Pkwy

Big Creek Greenway

400

Placemaking Legend G

Gateway Park

w1 w2 T

w1 w2

Pkw

K H w2

Enco

400

Fulton Science Academy

w1ay W e r a f n Fa

Westside Pkwy

w1 ie Lakev

ll Rd Maxwe

Gateways

Trailside Amenities Legend

id Br

w1 Off-Trail Wayfinding Signage

yn Ha

w2 On-Trail Wayfinding Signage

North Point Market Center

el lR d

0’

Comfort Station

Bike Repair Kiosk

Seating

Water Refill

Trash Receptacle

Bike Racks 1600’

Focus Area #1

Crossing Haynes Bridge Road and Traversing Georgia 400 Haynes Bridge Rd and GA 400 Southbound (looking west)

Summit Dr near the iATL (looking west)

Morrison Lake at the Georgia 400 Center (looking west)

Haynes Bridge Road is a 6+-lane arterial with a 45mph posted speed limit. Though the intersection of Haynes Bridge Road and Summit Place is signalized and contains marked crosswalks, the potential safety implications and perceived safety of this crossing have a major impact on the usability of the trail system. With the continuous right-turn from Haynes Bridge Road to the southbound ramp of Georgia 400, the final leg of the trail crossing is not signal-protected and poses a safety concern in its current configuration. The proposal for this crossing addresses the safety concerns mentioned above through a redesign of the crosswalk and associated slip lane to provide more space for trail users on foot and bike. High visibility markings and signage improve the legibility of the crossing, while a raised crossing at the southbound entrance ramp to Georgia 400 serves as a tactile measure to improve pedestrian safety and access from the traffic island to the trail. For those trail users wishing to avoid Haynes Bridge Road altogether, a proposed tunnel allows for a seamless journey from the Northwinds area into the forested buffer along Georgia 400. Once in the forest parallel to Georgia 400, the trail alignment leverages the topography and vegetation of the buffer landscape to provide a route that is both accessible and experientially rich. A connection to the future mixed-use development at 360 Tech Village allows for easy access to nearby neighborhoods, employment centers, and amenities, as well as the western arc of the Alpha Loop trail system.

Big Creek Greenway

North Point Mall

400

Hayn

Morrison Lake

Georgia 400 Center

360 Tech Village (Proposed)

es B

ridge

Rd Lakevie

400

w Pkwy

tP i m

Northwinds Northwinds Summit

Aerial image of the Study Area (looking southwest)

Focus Area #1 Inspiration

Mirror Lake

Katy Trail

Big Creek Greenway

The quality and character of Focus Area #1 leverages the natural beauty and diversity of the landscaped buffer along Georgia 400

Morrison Pkwy Spur

ie ev Lak

dpla

360 Tech Village

Artisan Connection (Planned) Artisan

S w2

Gateways

Comfort Station

Trash Receptacle

Bike Repair Kiosk

Bike Racks

Retaining Wall

w1 Off-Trail Wayfinding Signage

Seating

Elevated Walk

w2 On-Trail Wayfinding Signage

Water Refill

Lakeview Pkwy Alternative

Pk wy

w1 A

360 Tech Village Spur

Haynes Bridge

w2 K S

Alpha Loop Connection

Morrison Lake Loop oo ar Fl e Y 00

A Proposed Crosswalk

Haynes Bridge Rd

Legend

Trail Alignment

Alpha Loop

K C

Tunnel Crossing Alternative

w2 H S

No r

w2 A

thw inds Pkwy

Northwinds Summit

400

Planned BRT Station & Overpass

400 0’

600’

Haynes Bridge Rd At Grade Crossing oad R e ridg wy)

• Channelized Right-Turn onto SB-400 On-Ramp Accommodates a WB-67. • No Right On Red & Right Only Signal Phased Separately From Crosswalk Signal. • If There Are Issues With Yielding Compliance At Raised Crossing, Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons Or Right-Turn Signal Control Could Be Added For The Southbound Channelized RightTurn. • Signage: A R1-5 Mod With W17-16p Should Be Placed At The Yield Lines At Southbound Channelized Right-Turn.

B eview Pk s e ayn o Lak

Alpha Loop (12’)

Truck Apron To ds

No m

Su it

Alpha Loop (12’)

oad R e )

dgBridge i r B 00

s GA 4 e n ay (To

Key Map

Raised Crossing

Haynes Bridge @ Northwinds Summit No hW rt

s ind

Ha yn e

400

ridg e Ro ad

s to mp Ra 400 GA

ak evie w Pkwy

Slip Lane (11’)

Haynes Bridge Rd

ke Bi

Tunnel Crossing oad R e ridg wy)

Working Assumptions • Deepest Utility: 36” (16” Water Main) • Min. Clearance From Utility: 36” • Tunnel Width: 15’ • Tunnel Height: 10’ • Depth Of Top Of Tunnel Structure: 2’

Alpha Loop (12’)

Tunnel Entrance

To ds

No m

Alpha Loop (12’)

Stairwell Conditions • Width: 16’ Total (12’ Trail + 2’ Clearance For Bike Channels, Both Directions) • 12’ Trail: 4’ Bikeways (Both Directions) And 4’ Center Walkway • Riser Height: 6” ; Tread Depth: 12” • Landings Every 5-7.5’ Of Rise (12’ Maximum Rise Per Building Code) • Retaining Wall Depth: 18”

Non-ADA Compliant Tunnel Entrance

B eview Pk s e ayn o Lak

in Stairs to Tunn ove el o r G

d a o e R)

dgBridge i r B 00

s GA 4 e n ay (To

Key Map Haynes Bridge @ Northwinds Summit No hW rt

s ind

Tunnel 10’H x 15’W x 221’L

Ha yn e

400

ridg e Ro ad

to ps Ram 400 GA

ak evie w Pkwy

Focus Area #2 Connecting the North Point Area

Parallel to the development of GDOTs SR400 Express Lanes project, MARTA is planning Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) service along the 400 Corridor with a planned BRT station at the North Point Mall. The final location of this station and its connection to the Alpha Loop will be a function of the GDOT Express Lanes project and ongoing redevelopment of the mall site.

Encore Pkwy near Fanfare Way (looking northwest)

Encore Pkwy near North Point Pkwy (looking north)

Forested Buffer along Georgia 400 (looking south)

North Point Center E near Encore Pkwy (looking northeast)

The alignment of the trail continues to follow the forested buffer along GA400, meandering generously to respect the existing topography and preserve mature tree canopy. Community connections occur at regular intervals, providing ample access from the adjacent neighborhood and businesses. The trail connects to Encore Parkway at the intersection of Fanfare Way, where an enhanced east/west crossing allows for fluid connections to adjacent development and bike infrastructure along the southbound lanes of Encore. Along Encore Parkway, the mainline Alpha Loop trail travels adjacent to the northbound travel lanes. To accommodate a 12ft wide multiuse trail cross section, the sidewalk is expanded along the length of the Parkway to encompass the existing northbound bike lane. To enhance connections to the North Point Mall and future BRT Station, a grade-separated Alpha Loop trail extension is created along North Point Center E by recapturing the outermost east-bound lane of traffic. Paving, planting, signage and markings along these segments are consistent with the Alpha Loop Design Standards and delineate it as part of the larger system. As a step towards the larger Encore Parkway and North Point Center East improvements described above, buffered bike lanes are proposed as an interim improvement to quickly provide physical separation between vehicles and trail users. These enhancements present an opportunity to quickly and relatively cheaply improve the comfort and safety of the multimodal transit options in the district.

Aerial image of the Study Area (looking northeast)

Georgia 400 Center

Northwinds

Northwinds Summit

Artisan North Point Mall Fulton Science Academy Maxwell Rd

Arts Summit Rd

Encore Commons

Nor

re W ay

th P oin

400

t Ce

nte

Fanfa

kwy

de P

si West

Tempo Ln

Encore Pkwy

Encore at Northpoint 46

Focus Area #2 Trail Inspiration

Scioto Audubon Metro Park

Atlanta Beltline Eastside Trail Art Installation

Trout Run Trail Art Installation

Focus Area #2 leverages its proximity to the surrounding community and provides ample opportunity for trailside art and amenities.

Legend

Trail Alignment

A Proposed Crosswalk

Alpha Loop Connection

H S w2 A K

Bike Repair Kiosk

Bike Racks

Elevated Walk

w2 On-Trail Wayfinding Signage

Water Refill

Maxwell Connection

Fulton Science Academy

A w1

Seating

A w1

Artisan Connection (Planned)

Artisan

w2 T

Trash Receptacle

mmit Rd Su

Way e r a f n a F

w1 Off-Trail Wayfinding Signage

ts Ar

Comfort Station

Retaining Wall

A w1

wy k P e Tempo Ln d i s t s e W Connection

Gateways

Rd Maxwell

Arts Summit Connection

Alpha Loop

w2 T

S K

Elevated Walk

K B

S w2

w2 T

S H C K

400

ore Enc

North Point Center Spur

Pkw

Mansell Crossing

w2 A w2

rt o N

ter E Cen t oin P h

400

Planned BRT Station & Overpass

A w2

North Point Mall

0’

600’

Focus Area #2 Streetscape Inspiration

State Street Multi-use Trail

Protected Bike Lane

Alpha Loop Trail Marker

Streetscape within Focus Area #2 feature design elements that improve their safety, comfort, and sense of place.

Encore Pkwy Typical Section - Fanfare Way Intersection Travel Lane

kwkwyy) P e r EncoWestside P

Buffer Protection

(To

nf Fa

Bike Lane

ay eW ar

Tree Lawn Alpha Loop

E To en

in Po ter

Key Map Encore @ Fanfare

y y) w k P Pkw

5’

6’

8’

re Point o c En orth N (To

Fanfare

Way

ore Enc

400

Pkw

North Point Mall

Encore Pkwy Typical Section - Interim Improvements • Cyclists on-street or shared on 8ft multi-use path • Street section modified to include a 5ft protected bike lane - use of signage and markings to delineate Alpha Loop

Travel Lane Buffer Protection Bike Lane Tree Lawn Alpha Loop

Key Map 6’

Encore Pkwy ore Enc

5’

Pkw rt h No

in Po

t Center E

North Point Mall

8’

Encore Pkwy Typical Section - Desired Condition • Sidewalk section expanded to encompass north bound bike lane • Expanded sidewalk paving and planting areas, along with signage and markings to delineate Alpha Loop

Median Travel Lane Tree Lawn Alpha Loop

Key Map

12’ 6’

Encore Pkwy ore Enc y

Pkw rt No

oin hP

12’

t Center E

North Point Mall

North Point Center E Typical Section - Interim Improvements • No change to street section • Separated Alpha Loop trail delineated with planters on outer east-bound lane. • Trail width approximately 8-9ft, excluding gutter.

Modular Planters Travel Lane Tree Lawn Alpha Loop Connection

Key Map North Point Center E ore Enc y

Pkw rt h No

in Po

t Center E

North Point Mall

9’

North Point Center E Typical Section - Desired Condition • Creation of grade-separated Alpha Loop trail using outer east-bound lane • Trail width 12ft with 5ft tree lawn

Travel Lane Tree Lawn Alpha Loop Connection

Key Map North Point Center E ore Enc y

Pkw rt h No

in Po

t Center E

North Point Mall

5’

12’

Focus Area #3 Entering the Big Creek Greenway

Intersection of North Point Pkwy & Encore Pkwy (looking south)

The final leg of the connection to the Big Creek Greenway involves crossing North Point Parkway at Encore Parkway and routing to the Big Creek Greenway trail. The North Point Creative Placemaking plan has developed concepts for safe and creative crossings of the Parkway, and the City of Alpharetta has coordinated with private property owners to allow access down to the Greenway. A signature Gateway Park at this location provides a trailhead and public greenspace at the junction of Alpharettaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s two major trail networks: The Alpha Loop and the Big Creek Greenway. Gateway Park presents a tremendous opportunity to connect the Alpharetta community and North Point district to one of the Cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s greatest green assets. The connection from North Point Parkway to the Big Creek Greenway provides strong visibility, great access, significant placemaking potential, and highly valuable public green space to anchor the future redevelopment of the North Point corridor. Further planning and coordination is recommended to fully realize the opportunity for a signature Gateway Park at this location.

Big Creek Greenway from North Point Pkwy (looking south)

Big Creek Greenway near North Point Pkwy Trailhead (looking south)

Aerial image of the Study Area (looking north)

Fulton Science Academy

North Point Mall 400

Mansell Crossing

Enc

ore

Pkw

t Pkwy

in North Po

Encore Commons

Big Creek Greenway

Focus Area #3 Inspiration

Falls Park - Greenville, SC

Cancer Survivors Park - Greenville, SC

Falls Park - Greenville, SC

Cancer Survivors Park - Greenville, SC

Focus Area #3 leverages the natural quality and character of the Big Creek Greenway.

Legend

Trail Alignment

Alpha Loop

A Proposed Crosswalk

Alpha Loop Connection

Gateways

Comfort Station

Trash Receptacle

Bike Repair Kiosk

Bike Racks

Retaining Wall

w1 Off-Trail Wayfinding Signage

Seating

Elevated Walk

w2 On-Trail Wayfinding Signage

Water Refill

Pk ore Enc

North Point Center Spur

Po h rt No

ter E Cen t in

A w2

w2 A

Mansell Crossing

North Point Mall Proposed Mall Bicycle Loop

w2 A

Gateway Park

w2 B S H K

Big Creek Greenway Connection

North Poin

t Pkwy

Big Creek Greenway

0’

600’

North Point Parkway Crossing Inspiration District Threshold Concepts

Wrapped Steel Rebar

Lighting Effects for Safety & Atmosphere

Leaf Pattern District Branding

30ft

Lighting Effects for Safety & Atmosphere

Plant Material with Seasonal Interest

The Alpha

The Lattice

The Lattice features an inlaid leaf pattern, raised lettering Native & Urban Adapted Plant Species and is designed to accommodate plant material Greenway Thresholds

Decorative Crosswalk

15ft clearance

North Point PARKway Crossing

The Alpha features a dynamic shape reminiscent of the letter â&#x20AC;&#x153;Aâ&#x20AC;? and is designed to accommodate plant material. Transit Stops 48

Green Infrastructure Multi-use Trails

Enhanced Pedestrian Crossings

Pedestrian Amenities

Gateway & Intersection Concepts - North Point Creative Placemaking Plan

Decorative Crosswalk

The North Point Parkway crossing is guided by the strategies set forth in the North Point Creative Placemaking Plan 50

North Point Pkwy Crossing Concept

Decorative Bike Crossing (10’) Retroreflective Pedestrian Crossing (8’)

Bike Lane

North Po

int Pkwy

(To Mans ell

Rd)

Proposed Gateway Park

Alpha Loop

Key Map Encore @ North Point ore Enc

400

Pkw

rth No

in Po

North (To H

Encore Pkwy

Point P

ayne s

Bridg

kwy

e Rd)

t Ctr E

North Point Mall Nor th P oin t Pk wy

Cost & Constructability Section 04

City of Alpharetta

ALPHA LOOP DESIGN GUIDE

Cost & Constructability Overview

NNECTIVITY

EXPERIENCE City of Alpharetta Alpha Loop Design Guide

Along the Alpha Loop extension, all major investments are intended to encourage use from the community and ensure safe integration of multimodal and accessible transportation for pedestrians, cyclists, and vehicles alike. Along roadways most costs are attributed to new signalization, restriping, and widening of walks to accommodate a higher volume of pedestrian activity. Conversely, major costs along off-road trails are linked to grading, retaining walls, and elevated trail structures required for the creation of an accessible route and preservation of natural features. Key additions of site furnishings, plantings, lighting, and signage in convenient locations for trail users will also help to create a cohesive identity for the Alpha Loop. The thoughtful application of these signature placemaking qualities will distinguish the trail as an important piece of public infrastructure, driving further economic investment and community pride. The design and amenitization of the trail is consistent with the strategies set forth in the City of Alpharetta Alpha Loop Design Guide and aligned with industry best practices for bicycle and pedestrian facilities. In order to identify distinct construction phases within the overall Alpha Loop extension, each of the Focus Areas and related costs were organized based on the general type of construction and mobilization anticipated.

TAINABILITY

The following pages illustrate the final conceptual trail alignment, highlighting key amenity locations, at-grade and elevated trail sections, and recommendations for intersection improvements to improve pedestrian safety.

IDENTITY

City of Alpharetta

Alpha Loop Design Guide TRAIL AMENITIES & FURNISHINGS

Key Map

0’

200’

1060

PK W Y

1050

1060

1070

1020

ES TS ID E

SHEET 1 1000

1080

108 0

1010

SHEET 2

990

SHEET 3

1090

1070

1020

0 106

1020

1050

104

1060

1010

105

1070

1000

1040

BRT AMENITIES

1060

1040

SHE

1030

ET 4

103 0 105

1040

1030

GA 400

1030

1050

1040

1060

1070

1040

1020

1050

103

105

T5 1020

1010

E SHE 1040

1030

1020

103

1020

P RE CO EN 1010

E SHE

1000

Y KW

990

NORTH POINT MALL

980

SLOPE SLOPE

4 GA

HA YN ES BR ID

103

E SHE 980

980

WY OINT PK NORTH P

990

970

960

ET SHE

Sheet 1

Trailside Amenities Legend

Trash Receptacle

Bike Racks

w1 Off-Trail Wayfinding Signage

Bike Repair Kiosk

“Alpha” Sculpture

w2 On-Trail Wayfinding Signage

Seating

Retaining Wall

Water Refill

Elevated Trail

Comfort Station

w2 w2 HAYNES BRIDGE RD

1060

1050

MATCHLINE - REFER TO SHEET 2

1060

SUMMIT PL

GA HWY 400

REFER TO PAGE 119-120

ALIGNMENT - HAYNES BRIDGE TO ENCORE 23+00.00

22+00.00

21+00.00

20+00.00

19+00.00

18+00.00

17+00.00

16+00.00

109

15+00.00

13+00.00

12+00.00

11+00.00

10+00.00

North Retaining Wall Ends

Retaining Walls Begin

Haynes Bridge Road Crossing

Retaining Walls Begin

1070

South Retaining Wall Ends 60 10

23+00.00

22+00.00

21+00.00

20+00.00

19+00.00

18+00.00

Station

17+00.00

16+00.00

R/W

15+00.00

14+00.00

13+00.00 0’

24+00.00

R/W

25+46.60 25+00.00 65

1070

950’

Stairway Path Intersection

Tunnel Path Intersection

12+00.00

R/W R/W

11+00.00 200’

1110.00 1100’ 1100.00 1090.00 1080.00 1070.00 1060.00 1050.00 1050’ 1040.00 1030.00 1020.00 1010.00 1000.00 1000’ 990.00 R/W 980.00 970.00 960.00 950.00 950’ 940.00

Elevation

1080

Existing Grade

1000’

14+00.00

P 24+00.00

1100’ 1050’

102

25+46.60 25+00.00

RO PO S

L RA

OU E (S D RA TG A ES AN L SE PO

DOT SR 400 EXPRESS LANES U N D) - G THBO

GE NE

1070

10+00.00

100 YR

w2 On-Trail Wayfinding Signage

100 YR 100

110000 YYRR

Comfort Station

Trash Receptacle

Bike Racks

Bike Repair Kiosk

“Alpha” Sculpture

Seating

Retaining Wall

Water Refill

Elevated Trail

100 Y

R 10R0 Y 100 Y

100

MATCHLINE - REFER TO SHEET 1

RYR Y R 100 10Y0 100

100 YR

R 0Y

100 Y

R YR 0 Y100

10 100 YR

YR 0 R10

R 0Y

100 YR

100

100 YR

R/W

100 YR

100 Y

100 YR

R/W

100 Y

100 Y R R/W

R/W

100 YR

100

EXPRESS LANES PROJECT

R/W

100

R/W

100

R/W

100

990

100

102

R/W 0 103

106

PROPOSED REQUIRED ROW FOR THE SR400

100 YR

101

1040

1050

R/W

Y 100

1020

100 YR

100 YR 1 0

100 10

100 100 YR YR

100

100 YR100

101

100 YR

100 Y

100 YR 10

100

K w2

0Y 1 R 00 Y

100

102

100

100 YR

10 0

100 YR

100

100 YR

100 Y

1010 00YY RR

100 YR

100

MORRISON LAKE

100 Y

MATCHLINE - REFER TO SHEET 3

10 100 Y 0Y R R

w1 Off-Trail Wayfinding Signage

100 Y

100

100 Y

100 YR

0 YR

R 0Y

100 YR 100 YR

Sheet 2

Trailside Amenities Legend

100 Y

100

104 0

1040

ALIGNMENT - HAYNES BRIDGE TO ENCORE

PROPOSED GENERAL PURPOSE LANES AT GRADE (SOUTHBOUND) - GDOT SR400 EXPRESS LANES

+29.10 42+00.00

41+00.00

40+00.00

39+00.00

38+00.00

37+00.00

36+00.00

35+00.00

34+00.00

33+00.00

32+00.00

31+00.00

30+00.00

29+00.00

1100’

Elevated Boardwalk Begins

Elevated Boardwalk Ends

26+00.0025+46

41+00.00

40+00.00

1050’ 1000’

Retaining Wall Begins

39+00.00

Existing Grade

Morrison Lake Path Intersection

950’ Artisan Townhomes Path Intersection

+29.10 42+00.00

27+00.00

North Retaining Wall Ends 1100’

1050’ 1000’

28+00.00

South Retaining Wall Ends 950’

38+00.00

ALPHA LOOP EXTENSION FEASIBILITY STUDY - SHEET 2

37+00.00

36+00.00

35+00.00

34+00.00

Station

33+00.00

32+00.00

31+00.00

30+00.00

29+00.00 0’

28+00.00

27+00.00 200’

26+00.0025+46 66

Trash Receptacle

Bike Racks

w1 Off-Trail Wayfinding Signage

Bike Repair Kiosk

“Alpha” Sculpture

w2 On-Trail Wayfinding Signage

Seating

Retaining Wall

Water Refill

Elevated Trail

Comfort Station

100

YR 0 Y 10

R FA

MAX

L WEL

R 10

VA L

MATCHLINE - REFER TO SHEET 2

100

N FA

100 Y

100 YR

100

AY EW

R 10R0 Y 100 Y

Sheet 3

Trailside Amenities Legend

100 YR

LINE -

MATCH REFER

K w2

ET 4

TO SHE

T w2

K 10

BRT AMENITIES

ROJECT R/W

R/W

BRT STATION

SS LANES P ROW FOR THE SR400 EXPRE D E R I U Q E R D E S R/W PROPO R/W

R/W

R/W R/W R/W

1030

1100’

56+00.00

55+00.00

54+00.00

53+00.00 1040

52+00.00

51+00.00

50+00.00

E LANES AT GRADE (SOUTHBOUND) - GDOT SR400 EXPRESS LANES POSED GENERAL PURPOS O R P 49+00.00 48+00.00 47+00.00 46+00.00 45+00.00 44+00.00 43+00.00 42+29.10

R/W

1110.00 1100’ 1100.00 1090.00 1080.00 1070.00 1060.00 1050.00 1050’ 1040.00 1030.00 1020.00 1010.00 1000.00 1000’ 990.00 980.00 970.00 960.00 950.00 950’ 940.00

R/W

1000’

Elevation

Existing Grade

1050’

Maxwell Road Path Intersection

BRT Station

950’ 57+31.93 57+00.00 67

56+00.00

55+00.00

54+00.00

ALPHA LOOP EXTENSION FEASIBILITY STUDY - SHEET 3

53+00.00

52+00.00

ALIGNMENT - HAYNES BRIDGE TO ENCORE

R/W

57+31.93 57+00.00

R/W

51+00.00

50+00.00

Station

49+00.00

48+00.00

47+00.00

46+00.00

45+00.00 0’

44+00.00

43+00.00 42+29.10 200’

Sheet 4

Trailside Amenities Legend

Trash Receptacle

Bike Racks

w1 Off-Trail Wayfinding Signage

Bike Repair Kiosk

“Alpha” Sculpture

w2 On-Trail Wayfinding Signage

Seating

Retaining Wall

Water Refill

Elevated Trail

Comfort Station

MATCHLINE - REFER TO SHEET 5

TE M

R 0Y

100 YR

LN 0Y

FULTON SCIENCE AC

ADEMY

100

ATCHL INE -

TO SH

REFER

100

AY FANFARE W

EET 3

100 YR

100

105

100 YR

100 Y

100

103

1030

R/W

102

R/W

YR R/W

PROPOSED REQU IRED ROW FOR THE SR400 EX R/W PRESS R/W

R 100 YY 100 R

R/W

ALIGNMENT - HAYNES BRIDGE TO ENCORE

LANES PROJ ECT R/W R/W

103

R/W

72+39.76 72+00.00

1100’

71+00.00

70+00.00

69+00.00

68+00.00

67+00.00

66+00.00

65+00.00

64+00.00

63+00.00

62+00.00

61+00.00

60+00.00

59+00.00 R

58+00.00 57+31.93

R/W

Elevated Boardwalk Begins

Elevated Boardwalk Ends

Tempo Lane Path Intersection

Existing Grade

950’ 72+39.76 72+00.00

71+00.00

70+00.00

69+00.00

ALPHA LOOP EXTENSION FEASIBILITY STUDY - SHEET 4

68+00.00

67+00.00

66+00.00

65+00.00

Station

64+00.00

63+00.00

62+00.00

61+00.00 0’

60+00.00

59+00.00 200’

58+00.00 57+31.93 N 68

Elevation

1090.00 1080.00 1070.00 1060.00 1050.00 1050’ 1040.00 1030.00 1020.00 1010.00 1000.00 1000’ 990.00 980.00 970.00 960.00 950.00 950’ 940.00

1050’ 1000’

1110.00

1100’ 1100.00

Sheet 5

Trailside Amenities Legend

Trash Receptacle

Bike Racks

w1 Off-Trail Wayfinding Signage

Bike Repair Kiosk

“Alpha” Sculpture

w2 On-Trail Wayfinding Signage

Seating

Retaining Wall

Water Refill

Elevated Trail

Comfort Station

AY FANFARE W

K w2

REFER TO PAGE 121

PROPOSED

OW REQUIRED R

S PROJECT

RESS LANE

400 EXP FOR THE SR

R/W

ROW

R/W

UIRED

Q SED RE PROPO

1030

ENCORE

RES

00 EXP

E SR4 FOR TH

ECT S PROJ E N A L S

1030

R/W R/W

R/W

R 100 YY 100 R

1040

MATCHLINE - REFER TO SHEET 4

105

1050

R/W

PKWY

S LANES 400 EXPRES R S T O D G D) OUTHBOUN T GRADE (S A S E N A L PURPOSE GENERAL D E S O P O PR RESS LANES T SR400 EXP O D G T I S N RA US RAPID T GRADE & B T A S E N A SL D EXPRES PROPOSE ANES DOT SR400 EXPRESS L NORTHBOUND) - G ( E D A R G T A S E RPOSE LAN GENERAL PU PROPOSED

R/W

102

1030

10 20

1030

100 YR

1030

R/W

R/W R/W R/W R/W MATCHLINE - REFER TO SHEET 6

R/W R/W

ALPHA LOOP EXTENSION FEASIBILITY STUDY - SHEET 5

0’

200’

Sheet 6

Trailside Amenities Legend

Trash Receptacle

Bike Racks

w1 Off-Trail Wayfinding Signage

Bike Repair Kiosk

“Alpha” Sculpture

w2 On-Trail Wayfinding Signage

Seating

Retaining Wall

Water Refill

Elevated Trail

R/W

MATCHLINE - REFER TO SHEET 5

Comfort Station

R/W R/W R/W R/W 10 10

1000

100 Y

100 YR YR

PKW

990

TER

Y 00

ORE

ENC YR w2

100

OIN

P TH OR

T AS

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Elevated Boardwalk Begins

980

100

w2 REFER TO PAGE 122

MATCHLINE - REFER TO SHEET 7

ALPHA LOOP EXTENSION FEASIBILITY STUDY - SHEET 6

0’

200’

Sheet 7

Trailside Amenities Legend

Trash Receptacle

Bike Racks

w1 Off-Trail Wayfinding Signage

Bike Repair Kiosk

“Alpha” Sculpture

w2 On-Trail Wayfinding Signage

Seating

Retaining Wall

Water Refill

Elevated Trail

MATCHLINE - REFER TO SHEET 6

Comfort Station

Y RE PK W ENCO

1050.00 1040.00 1030.00 1020.00 1010.00 1000.00 990.00 980.00 970.00 960.00 950.00 940.00

Elevation

00.00+94

00.0501 00.0401 00.0301 00.0201 00.0101 00.0001 00.099 00.089 00.079 00.069 00.059 00.049

Elevation

noitavelE

00.00+66+00.00 05 00.00+65+00.00 15 00.00+64+00.00 25 00.00+63+00.00 35 66+00.00 00.00+62+00.00 45 65+00.00 00.00+61+00.00 55 64+00.00 00.00+60+00.00 65 63+00.00 00.003+959+00.00 7.5 13+7562+00.00 00.00+58+00.00 85 61+00.00 0057+31.93 .00+57+00.00 95 60+00.00 00.00+56+00.00 06 59+00.00 00.00+55+00.00 16 58+00.00 00.00+54+00.00 2657+31.93 57+00.00 00.00

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Elevation

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Water Refill

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ALPHA LOOP EXTENSION FEASIBILITY STUDY - SHEET 8 Scale: 1" = 100'-0"

0' 0’

50'

100'

200' 200’

Cost Estimate Executive Summary Base Bid By The Numbers... Streets

1060

1050

1060

1070

1020

• 2,804 LF of Streetscape Improvements • 4 Intersections improved

1000

1010 1080

1080

1090

990

1070

1020

1050

1040

1060

1010

1050

1070

1060

1000

1040

BRT AMENITIES

1060 1030

1030 1050 1040

1040

1030

1050

1040

1060

1070

1040

1020

1050

1030

1050

1010

Trails

1020

1040

1030

1020

1030

1010

1020

• 11,365 LF of Accessible Paths including: • 9,563 LF of At-Grade Trail • 1,028 LF of Elevated Trail

1000

990

980

SLOPE SLOPE

980

Amenities

980

990

970

960

• 2 Gateway Sculptures • 16 Bike Racks • 8 Benches • 3 Bike Repair Kiosks • 4 Water Refill Stations • 7 Trash Receptacles

ALPHA LOOP EXTENSION FEASIBILITY STUDY Scale: 1" = 100'-0"

Haynes Bridge Rd. Crossing

Encore Parkway

Haynes Bridge Rd. to Fanfare Way

North Point Center East

50'

100'

200'

N. Point Pkwy. to Big Creek Greenway

Cost Estimate

Alternate 1 estimate, if accepted, is intended to be an addition to Haynes Bridge Road intersection improvements. Alternate 2 estimate, if accepted, is intended to fully replace all other costs associated with improvements to Encore Parkway. 3 Alternate 3 estimate, if accepted, is intended to fully replace all other costs associated with improvements to North Point Center E. 4 All costs are inclusive of a 30% estimating contingency. 1 2

Area Summary Haynes Bridge Rd. Intersection

$1.57M

Encore Pkwy (Fanfare Way to North Point Pkwy)

$3.43M

Demolition & Site Preparation

($92K)

Encore & Fanfare Intersection

$825K

Roadway & Sidewalk Improvements

($127K)

Demolition & Site Preparation

($140K)

Trail Construction

($967K)

Roadway & Sidewalk Improvements

($255K)

Lighting, Amenities, Signage, & Plantings

($387K)

Lighting, Amenities, Signage, & Plantings

($431K)

$7.15M

Encore & North Point Center East Intersection

$649K

Demolition & Site Preparation

($155K)

Roadway & Sidewalk Improvements

($318K)

Lighting, Amenities, Signage, & Plantings

($176K)

Alternate 1 - Tunnel Crossing1

Includes an additional trail connection under Haynes Bridge Road and stairway connecting to the existing intersection.

Haynes Bridge Rd. to Fanfare Way

$6.56M

Encore Parkway Streetscape (excluding intersections)

$1.96M

Demolition & Site Preparation

($904K)

Demolition & Site Preparation

($304K)

Trail Construction

($4.39M)

Roadway & Sidewalk Improvements

($1.25M)

BRT Station Transition

($287K)

Lighting, Amenities, Signage, & Plantings

($409K)

Lighting, Amenities, Signage, & Plantings

($963K)

Alternate 2 - Buffer Bike Lanes Only2

$202K

North Point Pkwy to Big Creek Greenway $1.45M Encore & North Point Pkwy Intersection

$746K

Demolition & Site Preparation

($110K)

Roadway & Sidewalk Improvements

($231K)

Lighting, Amenities, Signage, & Plantings

($405K)

Greenway Connection

$707K

Demolition & Site Preparation

($65K)

Trail Construction

($512K)

Lighting, Signage, & Plantings

($130K)

Replaces a full street reconstruction with tactical modifications to the existing infrastructure.

North Point Center East

$556K

North Point Center East Trail

$556K

Demolition & Site Preparation

($90K)

Roadway & Sidewalk Improvements

($321K)

Lighting, Amenities, Signage, & Plantings

($146K)

Alternate 3 - Buffer Bike Lanes Only3

$199K

Replaces a full street reconstruction with tactical modifications to the existing infrastructure.

Appendix Section 05

Table of Contents Appendix

pg82-107 Public Meeting #1 Engagement Summary pg108-122 Public Meeting #2 Engagement Summary pg 119-124 Preliminary Engineering Intersection Concepts pg 127-134 Level of Traffic Stress Analysis pg 135-136 Alternate Alignment - Maxwell Park Route

NORTH POINT AREA & ALPHA LOOP TRAIL CONNECTIVITY FEASIBILITY STUDY VIRTUAL PUBLIC MEETING #1 ENGAGEMENT SUMMARY

photo: alpharetta.ga.us

Virtual Public Meeting: Overview In the wake of the COVID-19 outbreak, the planning team adapted it’s engagement strategy to prioritize the health and well-being of the Alpharetta community.

We’ve received 316 responses* to the Virtual Public Meeting Exercises

The Virtual Public Meeting page has been viewed 1,848 times* since it launched on 04/22/2020

Out of respect for social distancing, Public Meeting #1 transitioned to a webpage designed to introduce participants to the planning study and provide a space to share ideas for the North Point area’s expanding trail network through a series of surveys and mapping exercises.

* Statistics reflect the period between 04/22/2020 & 05/25/2020 at 11:59pm

Virtual Public Meeting: Outreach In the wake of the COVID-19 outbreak, the planning team adapted it’s engagement strategy to prioritize the health and well-being of the Alpharetta community. Out of respect for social distancing, Public Meeting #1 transitioned to a webpage designed to introduce participants to the planning study and provide a space to share ideas for the North Point area’s expanding trail network through a series of surveys and mapping exercises.

Vision Alpha Link North Point Area & Alpha Loop Trail Connectivity Feasibility Study

1,450 postcards were sent to area residents to promote the Virtual Public Meeting 105 stakeholders received emails promoting the Virtual Public Meeting

Posts to the City’s Social Media Platforms broadened the Virtual Public Meetings exposure

North Point Area and Alpha Loop Trail Connectivity Feasibility Study

Vision Survey The Vision Survey was open between 04/22/2020 & 05/25/2020. During that period it received 180 responses.

North Point Area and Alpha Loop Trail Connectivity Feasibility Study

The exercise was open between 04/22/2020 & 05/25/2020

The Vision Survey received 180 responses

Vision Survey The Vision Survey was open between 04/22/2020 & 05/25/2020. During that period it received 180 responses.

Q1: Are you a current resident of the City of Alpharetta?

“Yes” tops the list

80%

60%

40%

83.89%

20%

Yes

North Point Area and Alpha Loop Trail Connectivity Feasibility Study

Vision Survey

Q2: What is your 5 digit zipcode?

“30009” tops the list

The Vision Survey was open between 04/22/2020 & 05/25/2020. During that period it received 180 responses.

40%

30%

20%

44.44%

10%

North Point Area and Alpha Loop Trail Connectivity Feasibility Study

30504

30107

30092

30082

30076

30075

30068

30041

30022

30009

30005

30004

29650

Vision Survey

Q3: How frequently do you walk, jog or bike outdoors?

The Vision Survey was open between 04/22/2020 & 05/25/2020. During that period it received 180 responses.

80%

“Every Day” tops the list

60%

40%

55.56%

20%

Never

A few times a year

Once a month

A few times a month

A few times a week

Every Day

North Point Area and Alpha Loop Trail Connectivity Feasibility Study

Vision Survey The Vision Survey was open between 04/22/2020 & 05/25/2020. During that period it received 180 responses.

Q4: How often do you use the Big Creek Greenway or Alpha Loop?

“A few times a week” tops the list

40%

30%

20%

38.89%

10%

North Point Area and Alpha Loop Trail Connectivity Feasibility Study

Never

A few times a year

A few times a month

Once a month

A few times a week

Every day

Vision Survey

Q5: What type of trail user are you?

The Vision Survey was open between 04/22/2020 & 05/25/2020. During that period it received 180 responses.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Social Strollerâ&#x20AC;? tops the list 40%

30%

20%

34.27%

10%

Roller Enthusiast

Pavement Pounder

Social Stroller

Solitary Strutter

North Point Area and Alpha Loop Trail Connectivity Feasibility Study

Vision Survey

Q6: What type of cyclist are you?

The Vision Survey was open between 04/22/2020 & 05/25/2020. During that period it received 180 responses.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Interested & Concernedâ&#x20AC;? tops the list

80%

60%

40%

North Point Area and Alpha Loop Trail Connectivity Feasibility Study

Strong and Fearless

Enthused and Confident

0% Interested and Concerned

No Way, No How

56.18%

20%

Vision Survey The Vision Survey was open between 04/22/2020 & 05/25/2020. During that period it received 180 responses.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Builds community while improving health & wellnessâ&#x20AC;? tops the list

Q7: What is the most important benefit of the Alpha Loop?

40%

30%

20%

43.82%

10%

North Point Area and Alpha Loop Trail Connectivity Feasibility Study

Other

Alternative transit

Access to amenities

Attracts residents and businesses

Builds community

Vision Survey

â&#x20AC;&#x153;For leisure & recreationâ&#x20AC;? tops the list

Q8: How would you like to use the Alpha Loop? Select all that apply

The Vision Survey was open between 04/22/2020 & 05/25/2020. During that period it received 180 responses.

80%

60%

40%

North Point Area and Alpha Loop Trail Connectivity Feasibility Study

Other

Get to transit services

0% For leisure and recreation

Access to shopping, dining, & ent.

Commute to work or school

95.51%

20%

Vision Survey The Vision Survey was open between 04/22/2020 & 05/25/2020. During that period it received 180 responses.

Separated Use Trail (Coupled) 86%

Side Path 74%

Q9: Pick the facility types below you are comfortable walking/biking on. Select all that apply Separated Use Trail (Uncoupled) 86%

Buffered Bike Lanes 63%

Enhanced Sharrow 22%

Conventional Bike Lanes 22%

Shared Use Trail 83%

Separated Bikeway 60%

Advisory Bike Lanes 22%

North Point Area and Alpha Loop Trail Connectivity Feasibility Study

Vision Survey The Vision Survey was open between 04/22/2020 & 05/25/2020. During that period it received 180 responses.

Above-Grade Crossing 85%

Below-Grade Crossing 79%

At-Grade Crossing 35% North Point Area and Alpha Loop Trail Connectivity Feasibility Study

Q10: Pick two images that best describe your vision for major roadway crossings along the Alpha Loop.

Vision Survey The Vision Survey was open between 04/22/2020 & 05/25/2020. During that period it received 180 responses.

Green 79%

Open 33%

Colorful 23%

Textured 44%

Sculptural 13%

Q11: Pick two images that best represent your vision for the GA 400 buffer along the Alpha Loop where a landscape separation is not available

Transparent 7%

North Point Area and Alpha Loop Trail Connectivity Feasibility Study

Vision Survey

Q12: Pick two images that best describe your vision for the furnishings along the Alpha Loop.

The Vision Survey was open between 04/22/2020 & 05/25/2020. During that period it received 180 responses.

Naturalistic 58%

Playful 31% North Point Area and Alpha Loop Trail Connectivity Feasibility Study

Industrial 22%

Subtle 56%

Refined 18%

Traditional 15%

Vision Survey

Q13: Pick two images that best describe your vision for planting along the Alpha Loop.

The Vision Survey was open between 04/22/2020 & 05/25/2020. During that period it received 180 responses.

Shady 84%

Naturalistic 32%

Ornamental 29%

Minimalistic 34%

Bold 15%

Formal 3%

North Point Area and Alpha Loop Trail Connectivity Feasibility Study

Vision Survey

Q14: Pick two images that best describe your vision for art along the Alpha Loop.

The Vision Survey was open between 04/22/2020 & 05/25/2020. During that period it received 180 responses.

Monumental 46%

None 28% North Point Area and Alpha Loop Trail Connectivity Feasibility Study

Interactive 27%

Naturalistic 39%

Playful 21%

Ephemeral 13%

Vision Survey The Vision Survey was open between 04/22/2020 & 05/25/2020. During that period it received 180 responses.

Safe green space for riding, running, walking. I enjoy being able to observe nature up close and like how wide the trail is to allow for many types of pedestrians.

The scenery is beautiful and peaceful, the sidewalks are smooth enough to skate on (I’ve been learning to Rollerblade since nothing else is open), and it’s long enough to go for a long walk/ride without having to loop multiple times.

I am able to get away from the excitement of downtown alpharetta for a nice walk before going back to enjoy the city atmosphere. I am so excited about the walk ability factor. It is why we moved here. I currently love downtown but would love to bike the Greenway. Can’t wait.

Q15: I love the Alpha Loop & Big Creek Greenway because...

It’s convenient, encourages healthy activity and community and it’s beautiful.

It is one of the most beautiful and serene places for me in Georgia. It allows me to reset and be at peace from my hectic life.

North Point Area and Alpha Loop Trail Connectivity Feasibility Study

Vision Survey

Q16: What is your gender?

The Vision Survey was open between 04/22/2020 & 05/25/2020. During that period it received 180 responses.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Maleâ&#x20AC;? tops the list

80%

60%

40%

58.99%

20%

North Point Area and Alpha Loop Trail Connectivity Feasibility Study

Female

Male

Vision Survey

Q17: What is your age?

The Vision Survey was open between 04/22/2020 & 05/25/2020. During that period it received 180 responses.

“45-54” tops the list

40%

30%

20%

31.46%

10%

65+

55-64

45-54

35-44

25-34

18-24

Under 18

North Point Area and Alpha Loop Trail Connectivity Feasibility Study

Opportunities & Barriers Participants were invited to share what they would like to connect to and what keeps them from walking or biking in the area today by filling out a brief webbased survey. This exercise opened on 04/22/20 & closed on 05/25/2020. During that period it received 88 responses.

North Point Area and Alpha Loop Trail Connectivity Feasibility Study

The exercise was open between 04/22/2020 & 05/25/2020

88 participants shared their thoughts on opportunities & barriers

What are your favorite places in the area?

Where do you live?

Home 



Alpharetta Opportunities&Barriers

Details

Add

Save Basemap ShareAnalysis Print

 Directions

Measure

Bookmarks

Save

Directions

Measure

Bookmarks

+ −

Where do you work? 0

0.5

1mi

Where do you feel unsafe, uncomfortable, or unwelcome walking or biking in the area?

North Point Area and Alpha Loop Trail Connectivity Feasibility Study

0.5

1mi

100

Intercept Survey Phase 1 of the Intercept Survey launched the week of 04/20/2020 when 1,450 postcards were mailed to area residents. Phase 2 began on 05/11/2020 when 25 yard signs were strategically located in high-traffic areas across the community.

The exercise was open between the week of 04/20/2020 & 05/25/2020

1,450 postcards were sent to area residents and 25 yard signs were placed across Alpharetta.

The postcards and yard signs were designed to inform the public of the project, promote the Virtual Public Meeting exercises and allow a simple, interactive way for participants to get involved. The Remote Intercept Survey closed on 05/25/2020. It received 48 responses.

Intercept Survey signage at the Big Creek Greenway - North Point Parkway Trailhead North Point Area and Alpha Loop Trail Connectivity Feasibility Study

101

Intercept Survey

I love the Alpha Loop & Big Creek Greenway because...

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a fantastic element that safely connects areas of Alpharetta, and provides a way for families to walk or bike together without the anxiety of cars.

Phase 1 of the Intercept Survey launched the week of 04/20/2020 when 1,450 postcards were mailed to area residents. Phase 2 began on 05/11/2020 when 25 yard signs were strategically located in high-traffic areas across the community. The postcards and yard signs were designed to inform the public of the project, promote the Virtual Public Meeting exercises and allow a simple, interactive way for participants to get involved. The Remote Intercept Survey closed on 05/25/2020. It received 48 responses.

How often do you use the Alpha Loop or Big Creek Greenway? A few times a year (10%) Every Day (25%)

Safe paths like these encourage people of ALL ages and abilities to keep a car at home and ride a bicycle to local shops, local restaurants and green spaces.

I am a senior citizen and the Greenway gives me an opportunity to get some fresh air and exercise in a safe, beautiful place.

Once a month (6%)

A few times a month (19%)

I enjoy the outdoors and meeting friendly faces along the way while getting my steps in.

A few times a week (40%)

North Point Area and Alpha Loop Trail Connectivity Feasibility Study

102

Columbus, OH Cincinnati, OH Detroit, MI Greenville, SC Indianapolis, IN Lafayette, IN Louisville, KY

103

NORTH POINT AREA & ALPHA LOOP TRAIL CONNECTIVITY FEASIBILITY STUDY PUBLIC MEETING #2 ENGAGEMENT SUMMARY

photo: alpharetta.ga.us

104

Public Meeting #2: Overview In the wake of the COVID-19 outbreak, the planning team adapted its engagement strategy to prioritize the health and well-being of the Alpharetta community. Out of respect for social distancing, Public Meeting #2 was held outdoors on Wednesday, July 29th from 5:30p - 7:30p. Upon arrival, participants were invited to take a stroll around Morrison Lake and visit a series of thematic stations to discuss the project and share ideas for its future. To broaden the projectâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s exposure and make the process more accessible, an online survey was made available so those not in attendance had an opportunity to make their voices heard. The online survey was open from July 29th - August 7th.

North Point Area and Alpha Loop Trail Connectivity Feasibility Study

105

North Point Area and Alpha Loop Trail Connectivity Feasibility Study

106

Public Meeting #2: Outreach

North Point Area and Alpha Loop Trail Connectivity Feasibility Study

107

Public Meeting #2 was promoted digitally through the Cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s social media platforms and via emails to the projectâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s network of stakeholders and interested community members. Examples of the posts can be seen below.

Public Meeting #2: Engagement Participants were encouraged to submit feedback through through the online polling platform Mentimeter, though analog options (post it notes & sticky dots) were available for those uncomfortable with, or unable to access the necessary technology. Approximately 40 community members attended the meeting on Wednesday, July 29th. 38 community members engaged with the online survey.

North Point Area and Alpha Loop Trail Connectivity Feasibility Study

108

Public Meeting #2: Engagement

Q1: Are you a current resident of the City of Alpharetta?

Approximately 40 community members attended the meeting on Wednesday, July 29th. 38 community members engaged with the online survey.

93% of respondents

North Point Area and Alpha Loop Trail Connectivity Feasibility Study

109

Public Meeting #2: Engagement Approximately 40 community members attended the meeting on Wednesday, July 29th. 38 community members engaged with the online survey.

Q2: How comfortable are you using each Haynes Bridge Crossing Option on a scale of 1-10?

North Point Area and Alpha Loop Trail Connectivity Feasibility Study

110

Public Meeting #2: Engagement Approximately 40 community members attended the meeting on Wednesday, July 29th. 38 community members engaged with the online survey. At-Grade

Tunnel

North Point Area and Alpha Loop Trail Connectivity Feasibility Study

111

Q3: Share your thoughts on each Haynes Bridge Crossing Option!

Public Meeting #2: Engagement Approximately 40 community members attended the meeting on Wednesday, July 29th. 38 community members engaged with the online survey.

Q4: Share your thoughts on the Encore Pkwy & Fanfare Way Intersection

Concept

North Point Area and Alpha Loop Trail Connectivity Feasibility Study

112

Public Meeting #2: Engagement Approximately 40 community members attended the meeting on Wednesday, July 29th. 38 community members engaged with the online survey.

• Sidewalk section expanded to encompass north bound bike lane • Expanded sidewalk paving and planting areas, along with signage and markings to delineate Alpha Loop

Q5: How comfortable are you using each Encore Pkwy Option on a scale of 1-10?

• Cyclists on-street or shared on 8ft multi-use path • Street section modified to include a 5ft protected bike lane - use of signage and markings to delineate Alpha Loop North Point Area and Alpha Loop Trail Connectivity Feasibility Study

113

Public Meeting #2: Engagement Approximately 40 community members attended the meeting on Wednesday, July 29th. 38 community members engaged with the online survey.

Q7: Share your thoughts on each Encore Pkwy Option!

Option A

Option B

North Point Area and Alpha Loop Trail Connectivity Feasibility Study

114

Public Meeting #2: Engagement Approximately 40 community members attended the meeting on Wednesday, July 29th. 38 community members engaged with the online survey.

• No change to street section • Separated Alpha Loop trail delineated with planters on outer east-bound lane. • Trail width approximately 8-9ft, excluding gutter.

Q8: How comfortable are you using each North Point Center E Option on a scale of 1-10?

• Creation of grade-separated Alpha Loop trail using outer east-bound lane • Trail width 12ft with 5ft tree lawn North Point Area and Alpha Loop Trail Connectivity Feasibility Study

115

Public Meeting #2: Engagement Approximately 40 community members attended the meeting on Wednesday, July 29th. 38 community members engaged with the online survey.

Q9: Share your thoughts on each North Point Center E Option!

Option A

Option B

North Point Area and Alpha Loop Trail Connectivity Feasibility Study

116

Public Meeting #2: Engagement Approximately 40 community members attended the meeting on Wednesday, July 29th. 38 community members engaged with the online survey.

North Point Area and Alpha Loop Trail Connectivity Feasibility Study

117

Q11: Share any closing thoughts you have!

Columbus, OH Cincinnati, OH Detroit, MI Greenville, SC Indianapolis, IN Lafayette, IN Louisville, KY

North Point Area and Alpha Loop Trail Connectivity Feasibility Study

118

Alpha Loop - Haynes Bridge Road and Summit Place/GA400 This document is a summary of the at-grade trail crossing of the proposed Alpha Loop at Haynes Bridge Road and Summit Place. The design has evolved with additional information and GDOT coordination. This memo summarizes the opportunities and constraints for the design development and coordination in the next stage.

Design Layout

Figure 2: Proposed Signal Plan – GDOT

Toole Design developed an at-grade crossing for Haynes Bridge illustrated in Figure 1 that featured a refuge island and based on the current configuration for the intersection and traffic analysis. The proposed trail crossing is on the north leg of the intersection and incorporates widened ramps and re-configurated slip lane for increased safety and sight lines. The concept was based upon the existing lane arrangement and layout for the intersection.

Opportunities

Figure 2 shows the recently approved signal permit/plan for Haynes Bridge and the 400 SB ramps/Summit Place. The project adds additional turn lanes and changed signal phasing. The majority of the Haynes Bridge and Alpha Loop concept design was prepared prior to receiving the GDOT design. To make the Alpha Loop design work with the GDOT plan as currently configured, the refuge space was removed and illustrated in Figure 3. This is primarily due to the turning movements from the GA400 off-ramp and the proposed addition of a second left turn lane.

N Figure 3: Aligned Alpha Loop Crossing Concept

The following is a list of design options to investigate and coordinate at the next design stage: •

•

Shifting trail crossing north to allow refuge island to be restored from preferred Alpha Loop crossing concept o Confirm turning movements and coordinate lane alignments with GDOT – this may mean coordination on which left turn lane trucks use through signage/enforcement o Layout new slip lane and island to accommodate this shifted crossing o Look into angling the trail crossing slightly Confirm signal phasing to optimizes eastbound left turns from GA400 onto Haynes Bridge Rd o This will allow for no turns on red from Summit Place and reduce conflict to re-aligning the GA400 EBL turns into the two eastern lanes of Haynes Bridge o Look for opportunities to maximize safety and crossing times for trail users

Constraints The following are constraints for re-introducing a refuge island for the trail crossing: • •

•

N Figure 1: Snapshot of the Draft At-Grade Alpha Loop Crossing Concept

Next Steps In addition to evaluation of the described opportunities and constraints, we recommend the following next steps: •

Evaluate the proposed GDOT signal design/permit and look for opportunities to revise for the safety of all users

•

Obtain the signal design project AutoCAD/MicroStation files to help explore any linework or design updates Coordinate with GDOT to confirm design/control vehicles for the turn onto Haynes Bridge Road o Prepare exhibits on proposed lane/extension lines to determine potential refuge location

•

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Timing of GDOT construction or approvals for the existing design The proposed GDOT project removes the dedicated right turn from Summit Place to Haynes Bridge Road. o As a through and right-turn movement it could cause bike/vehicle conflicts as the movements aren’t separated. This conflict could be an issue depending on the expected peak hour turns across the trail crossing. Crossing distances/clearance times o With new stop bar locations needed at a shifted trail crossing, the signal timing and clearance times would need to be re-evaluated.

Signal Plan for Haynes Bridge Road & GA 400 Southbound Entrance Ramps 120

TIE INTO EXISTING MULTI-USE PATH 11'

11'

R6 R1

11' 11'

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R200'

NOTES: 1. 2. 3.

THIS IS A PRELIMINARY CONCEPT. FIELD VERIFICATION, SITE CONDITION ASSESSMENTS, ENGINEERING ANALYSIS AND DESIGN ARE NECESSARY PRIOR TO IMPLEMENTING ANY OF THE RECOMMENDATIONS CONTAINED HEREIN.

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CHANNELIZED RIGHT-TURN ONTO SB-400 ON-RAMP ACCOMODATES A WB-67. NO RIGHT ON RED & RIGHT ONLY SIGNAL PHASED SEPARATELY FROM CROSSWALK SIGNAL. IF THERE ARE ISSUES WITH YIELDING COMPLIANCE AT RAISED CROSSING, RECTANGULAR RAPID FLASHING BEACONS OR RIGHT-TURN SIGNAL CONTROL COULD BE ADDED FOR THE SOUTHBOUND CHANNELIZED RIGHT-TURN. SIGNAGE: A R1-5 MOD WITH W17-16P SHOULD BE PLACED AT THE YIELD LINES AT SOUTHBOUND CHANNELIZED RIGHT-TURN.

Exhibit 1

40'

80'

120'

AT GRADE CROSSING CONCEPT PLAN S ALPHA LOOP 10/06/2020

SCALE IN FEET PRELIMINARY CONCEPT - NOT FOR CONSTRUCTION

1068

LANDING +1067.5

10 71 10 70 10 69

LANDING +1075

TIE INTO PROPOSED MULTI-USE PATH

1068

LANDING +1062.5 LANDING +1057.5

RETAINING WALL UTILITY CONFLICT ZONE 4% TREAD +1057

TREAD +1050.5

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1% PATH BACK TO GRADE

1081

360 TECH VILLAGE AMENITY ZONE

1068

SECOND FLOOR

TUNNEL LENGTH: 221'

+1049

WORKING ASSUMPTIONS -

DEEPEST UTILITY: 36” (16” WATER MAIN) MIN. CLEARANCE FROM UTILITY: 36” TUNNEL WIDTH: 15' TUNNEL HEIGHT: 10' DEPTH OF TOP OF TUNNEL STRUCTURE: 2'

STAIRWELL CONDITIONS: -

WIDTH: 16' TOTAL (12' TRAIL + 2' CLEARANCE FOR BIKE CHANNELS, BOTH DIRECTIONS) 12' TRAIL: 4' BIKEWAYS (BOTH DIRECTIONS) AND 4' CENTER WALKWAY RISER HEIGHT: 6" ; TREAD DEPTH: 12" LANDINGS EVERY 5-7.5' OF RISE (12' MAXIMUM RISE PER BUILDING CODE) RETAINING WALL DEPTH: 18"

THIS IS A PRELIMINARY CONCEPT. FIELD VERIFICATION, SITE CONDITION ASSESSMENTS, ENGINEERING ANALYSIS AND DESIGN ARE NECESSARY PRIOR TO IMPLEMENTING ANY OF THE RECOMMENDATIONS CONTAINED HEREIN.

Exhibit 5

30'

60'

90'

TUNNEL CROSSING CONCEPT PLAN S ALPHA LOOP 06/23/2020

SCALE IN FEET PRELIMINARY CONCEPT - NOT FOR CONSTRUCTION

122

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THIS IS A PRELIMINARY CONCEPT. FIELD VERIFICATION, SITE CONDITION ASSESSMENTS, ENGINEERING ANALYSIS AND DESIGN ARE NECESSARY PRIOR TO IMPLEMENTING ANY OF THE RECOMMENDATIONS CONTAINED HEREIN.

123

Exhibit 3

30'

60'

90'

ENCORE PKWY & FANFARE WAY INTERSECTION S ALPHA LOOP 10/02/2020

SCALE IN FEET PRELIMINARY CONCEPT - NOT FOR CONSTRUCTION

ALPHA LOOP LOOP ALPHA ROUTE ROUTE

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ALPHA LOOP LOOP ALPHA ROUTE ROUTE

ALPHA ALPHA LOOP LOOP ROUTE ROUTE

THIS IS A PRELIMINARY CONCEPT. FIELD VERIFICATION, SITE CONDITION ASSESSMENTS, ENGINEERING ANALYSIS AND DESIGN ARE NECESSARY PRIOR TO IMPLEMENTING ANY OF THE RECOMMENDATIONS CONTAINED HEREIN.

Exhibit 1

30'

60'

90'

ENCORE PKWY & N POINT CENTER E INTERSECTION S ALPHA LOOP 09/23/2020

SCALE IN FEET PRELIMINARY CONCEPT - NOT FOR CONSTRUCTION

124

Alpha Loop Crosswalk Markings This document is a summary of the current best-practice guidance and review of the proposed crosswalk markings for the Alpha Loop Trail crossings in Alpharetta, GA. Given the early planning level stage, these recommendations should be re-evaluated at the implementation or detailed design phase.

Compliance and Guidance

Figure 2: Proposed Alpha Loop Marking Style

The proposed crossing is intended to include a compliant pedestrian crosswalk with white transverse markings and a hi-visibility portion of crosswalk with continental markings (24” white with a spacing of 4-6’ O.C. typ). The detectable warning surfaces shall extend the full width of the crosswalk. We recommend that yellow detectable warnings be used for the high-visibility side of the crossing and then green detectable warnings for the bike portion crossing to reinforce the intended users are different while still meeting the requirements of ADA.

Other recent urban trail crosswalk examples include:

Our guidance for the crossing is: as long as these red lines are painted as crosswalk lines, then anything between them may be interpreted as a decorative crosswalk. The white lines of the high visibility portion of the crosswalk may be painted as retroreflective markings because that is an allowable crosswalk treatment, but because the green isn't being installed in a manner that designates a bike-only lane, we would recommend that the green paint be non-retroreflective to comply with the FHWA guidance on decorative crosswalks. Paint should not be used inside the refuge median – we propose meeting at least the minimum width for all refuge areas and including two sets of detectable warning. As illustrated in Figure 2, the key features of these crosswalks are the outside white transverse, hi-visibility section, and the non-retroreflective, decorative leaf markings.

• • •

City of Charlotte - uses the FHWA approved green in between their typical high-visibility white ladder (piano style) crosswalk markings City of Houston – uses 24” continental crosswalk markings with 2’x2’ elephant feet green markings outside City of Orlando – at trail crossings or certain neighborhoods, Duratherm colored or branded treatments are being used within the high-visibility ladder crosswalk markings. For the trail crossing we are designing, the Duratherm within the high-visibility crosswalk markings is bike-lane green.

The Houston and Charlotte crossing examples are closer to the FHWA ruling and guidance based on our interpretation while the Alpha Loop treatments of green will more of the decorative green treatment similar to the Orlando example.

Liability If Toole Design was the Engineer-of-Record for the design of the crossings, we would evaluate each of the proposed striping designs on a case-by-case basis. This includes mural style crosswalks and various color styles. Oftentimes, the artistic mural style crosswalks are done in-house by cities and the liability rests with the interpretation of the implementing City. For murals and artistic style that vary from the accepted MUCTD and FHWA ruling color recommendations, it is sometimes preferred that the work be done in-house by a City after completion of the legal high-visibility or transverse crosswalk markings. Typically, a jurisdiction’s engineering staff would collaborate with the legal team to reach a consensus or approach.

Funding

Figure 1: Split Bike/Ped Crossing Detectable Warning

The design of these decorative style crosswalks is often dependent on the source of construction funding and the approval or review process for the funding agency. A State DOT or FHWA may not interpret these types of designs in the same way a City might or as described in the memo.

Disclaimer Given the early nature of these crossing designs, we have the following disclaimer: This is a preliminary document and concept design. All results, recommendations, cost opinions, and commentary contained herein are based on limited available data at the time of preparation. Further engineering analysis and design are necessary prior to implementing any of the recommendations contained herein. This document is an instrument of professional service. Reuse or alteration is at the user’s sole risk

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THIS IS A PRELIMINARY CONCEPT. FIELD VERIFICATION, SITE CONDITION ASSESSMENTS, ENGINEERING ANALYSIS AND DESIGN ARE NECESSARY PRIOR TO IMPLEMENTING ANY OF THE RECOMMENDATIONS CONTAINED HEREIN.

Exhibit 2

30'

60'

90'

ENCORE PKWY & NORTH POINT PKWY INTERSECTION S ALPHA LOOP 10/02/2020

SCALE IN FEET PRELIMINARY CONCEPT - NOT FOR CONSTRUCTION

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ALPHA LOOP FEASIBILITY STUDY EXISTING CONDITIONS

INTRODUCTION

ALPHA LOOP FEASIBILITY STUDY EXISTING CONDITIONS

50 percent of people indicate that they are “interested but concerned” in bicycling and would like to ride more often. 1 Over 50 percent say they are worried about being hit by a car, and nearly 50 percent say they would more likely ride a bike if physical separation were provided between motor vehicles and bicycles. 2 While the prescribed user types and cited research are specific to bicyclists, pedestrians also prefer to be placed further away from the curb and/or have a buffer between themselves and motor vehicle traffic. Lower stress environments result in increased numbers of people biking and walking because lower stress design typically accommodates both user types through the combination of sidewalks, separated bike lanes, and multiuse paths. 3F

This document provides an overview of the existing conditions of the roadway network within the Alpha Loop Extension Feasibility Study area, including a level of traffic tress analysis for cycling routes, and a more detailed overview of the characteristics of roads that interface directly with the proposed extension.

LEVEL OF TRAFFIC STRESS ANALYSIS

To quantify bicyclist comfort within the study area, a Level of Traffic Stress (LTS) analysis was performed. The analysis was conducted based on criteria developed by Peter Furth3, adapted to account for available data and local context. There are four levels of traffic stress used to describe how appropriate a route is for different types of users:

Excellent bike networks are designed to attract a broad range of potential users with safe and comfortable facilities, including people who are interested in riding but concerned about the experience. Bicyclists have varying levels of tolerance for the stress created by the volume, speed, and proximity of adjacent traffic. Both the condition of bicycle facilities and the street itself inform the users experience. A safe, connected, and consistent bicycle facility is also indicative of a safe pedestrian facility. A bicyclist’s tolerance may change over time with bicycling experience.

LTS 1: Comfortable for most ages and abilities A score of LTS 1 is assigned to routes where the amount of attention required from cyclists is minimal, making it safe for all levels of cyclists, including children. These roads are characterized by lower traffic speeds (25 miles per hour or less) and up to two travel lanes. With on-street bike lanes, they may have up to three lanes and speeds of up to 30 miles per hour. Multiuse paths, trails, and greenways are also assigned LTS 1.

Figures 1 illustrates the different types of potential cyclist user types, including people who would never consider cycling, those who are interested but concerned, somewhat confident riders, and highly confident riders. Each user type has a different threshold for the level of traffic stress they find comfortable while cycling. Nationally, over

LTS 2: Comfortable for most adults LTS 2 is assigned to local roads that have relatively low speeds, low traffic volumes, and speeds of up to 35 miles per hour, depending on other characteristics. These conditions are acceptable for the mainstream adult population, including interested but concerned riders, but may not be comfortable for children. While they require more attention from riders than LTS 1, they are still appropriate for most adult rider skill levels.

Figure 1. Bicyclist User Type Descriptions

LTS 3: Tolerable for somewhat confident cyclists Segments with a classification of LTS 3 require interaction with moderate speed or multilane traffic, or in close proximity to higher speed traffic. These corridors are generally acceptable for enthusiastic riders who are confident in their abilities and are comfortable in shared traffic, but prefer separation from vehicles. LTS 4: Suitable for highly confident cyclists Roads with a score of LTS 4 are only suitable for the most advanced levels of cyclists, those who are highly confident and comfortable riding with traffic. On these streets, cyclists must interact with higher speed traffic or in close proximity to high speed traffic. In reality, some LTS 4 routes, such as highways, are not appropriate for even the most advanced cyclists. By maximizing the number of routes that connect community destinations with low-stress LTS 1 and LTS 2 facilities, Alpharetta can attract more interested but concerned riders to bike for some trips, significantly increasing the population of potential riders.

1 2 3

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Dill, J., McNeil, N. (2015). Revisiting the Four Types of Cyclists. Transportation Research Board. U.S. Bicycling Participation Benchmarking Study (2014). Furth, P. Level of Traffic Stress Criteria for Road Segments – Version 2.0. Northeastern University College of Engineering. June 2017.

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METHODOLOGY

RESULTS

The following pages illustrate roadway conditions that factor into the LTS analysis: number of lanes, traffic volumes, prevailing speeds, centerline treatments, and bicycle facilities. Data was collected using available information from the City of Alpharetta and the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT), as well as a desktop survey of the roadway network using aerial imagery. GDOT collects Annual Average Daily Traffic (AADT) data for select roads within the analysis area. Actual traffic counts were used where available. Where actual counts were unavailable, typical volumes were assigned based on road classification and network connectivity. While prevailing speeds may differ from posted speeds, actual travel speed data was not available; posted speed limits were used as a proxy. Potential errors in the original data may result in errors in the analysis.

Throughout the study area, there are few existing low-stress bicycle facilities that connect destinations. Most of the effective road network has a score of LTS 3 or higher, meaning they are only suitable for enthusiastic riders who are confident in their abilities. The low-stress routes that do exist are disjointed and do not create continuous connections between community destinations, resulting in a limited number of options for people who are interested but concerned to comfortably travel through Alpharetta by bike.

All multiuse paths, trails, and greenways, which offer cyclists comfortable facilities separated from vehicular traffic, score an LTS 1. The following tables summarize the LTS assigned to road segments based on their characteristics. Table 1 is used for streets without designated bicycle facilities, where cyclists must ride in mixed traffic. Table 2 is used for streets with on-street bicycle facilities, including marked bicycle lanes and shoulders with a minimum width of four feet.

Speed (mph)

AADT

< 20

50+

2 lanes, no centerline

0-750 751-1,500 1,501-3,000 3,000+

LTS 1 LTS 1 LTS 2 LTS 3

LTS 2 LTS 2 LTS 3 LTS 4

LTS 2 LTS 3 LTS 3 LTS 4

LTS 3 LTS 3 LTS 4 LTS 4

LTS 3 LTS 4 LTS 4 LTS 4

2 lanes, with centerline

0-750 751-1,500 1,501-3,000 3,001-6,000 6,001-10,000 10,001+

LTS 1 LTS 2 LTS 2 LTS 3 LTS 3 LTS 4

LTS 1 LTS 2 LTS 3 LTS 3 LTS 4 LTS 4

LTS 2 LTS 2 LTS 3 LTS 4 LTS 4 LTS 4

LTS 2 LTS 3 LTS 4 LTS 4 LTS 4 LTS 4

LTS 3 LTS 3 LTS 4 LTS 4 LTS 4 LTS 4

LTS 3 LTS 4 LTS 4 LTS 4 LTS 4 LTS 4

0-6,000

LTS 3

LTS 4

3-4 lanes

6,001-12,000 12,001+

LTS 3 LTS 4

LTS 4 LTS 4

5+ lanes

Any AADT

LTS 4

2 lanes or unlaned 3-4 lanes 5+ lanes

Speed (mph)

Bike Lane Width

50+

6+ ft

LTS 1

LTS 2

LTS 3

4 or 5 ft

LTS 2

LTS 3

LTS 4

6+ ft

LTS 2

LTS 3

4 or 5 ft

LTS 2

LTS 3

LTS 4

any width

LTS 3

LTS 4

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Within the analysis area, low-stress routes for cyclists include:  

Multiuse paths and trails like the Alpha Loop and Big Creek Greenway On-street bike lanes on low-speed roads like Encore Parkway (Westside Parkway to North Point Parkway) and Haynes Bridge Road (Thompson Street to Academy Street) Low-speed, low-volume, two-lane roads located primarily in residential neighborhoods and private developments

Most of the LTS 1 streets in the area are located within developments and do not provide many connections between community destinations. There is not currently a continuous, low-stress route for interested but concerned users travel between Downtown Alpharetta or Avalon and destinations in the North Point Mall area like retailers, the proposed BRT station, and Big Creek Greenway. If the proposed Alpha Loop Extension is constructed, the only significant gap remaining to connect these destinations with a low-stress cycling route would be the section of Northwinds Parkway from Kimball Bridge Road to Summit Place.

Medium-Stress Routes (LTS 3) Some routes with existing bicycle facilities score an LTS 3 and would not be considered comfortable for the typical adult. These include: 



On-street bike lanes or shoulders without buffers on higher-speed, multilane roads like Northwinds Parkway (Kimball Bridge Road to Old Milton Parkway) and North Point Parkway (Haynes Bridge Road to Kimball Bridge Road) Multilane roads with low volumes and speeds, like the primary streets in Avalon .

High-Stress Routes (LTS 4) Many of the major roads in the analysis area score an LTS 4, meaning they are only tolerable for highly confident cyclists. These include: 

Table 2. Level of Traffic Stress With On-Street Bicycle Facilities Number of lanes

Low-Stress Routes (LTS 1 and 2)



Table 1. Level of Traffic Stress Scores for Segments Without Bicycle Facilities

Number of Lanes

None of the existing bicycle facilities provide the east-west connection between Haynes Bridge Road and Encore Parkway north of Georgia 400 that will be added by the proposed extension.



Higher speed, higher volume, multilane roads without bicycle facilities like Old Milton Parkway, Westside Parkway, and portions of North Point Parkway Two-lane roads with high speeds like Maxwell Road

Some LTS 4 roads, like Georgia 400, are not appropriate for cyclists regardless of their level of comfort. Criteria for determining LTS should be considered in the selection and design of future facilities to maximize comfort and safety and attract a wider range of cyclists and pedestrians. Throughout the analysis area, existing bike lanes are generally relatively narrow (around 4 feet wide) and do not have buffers or other separation from vehicular traffic. While these provide a designated place for cyclists, many interested but concerned riders do not find these conditions comfortable, sometimes resulting in a

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higher LTS than if a bike lane at least 6 feet wide had been provided. In some cases, on-street bike lanes and shoulders stop short of intersections, forcing cyclists to mix with vehicular traffic and increasing their level of stress. As future on-street facilities are designed, wider lanes and buffers should be incorporated wherever feasible and treatments should extend through intersections. Figure 2. Level of Traffic Stress Map

STREETS The proposed Alpha Loop Extension will offer a safe route for pedestrians and cyclists moving between the northern part of the city toward the North Point Mall area. Success of the facility will be determined by its ability to connect safely and comfortably to other safe cycling and walking facilities, and community destinations. This section provides an overview of the characteristics of nearby streets that will interact with the extensionthat could as alternate routes and/or provide long-term safe connections to the proposed path. The maps on the following pages illustrate the road classifications, speed limits, number of lanes, bicycle facilities, medians, and existing sidewalks for streets within the analysis area. The streets with the most direct relationships to the extension are discussed in greater detail below, including:        

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Haynes Bridge Road Lake View Parkway/ North Winds Parkway Westside Parkway/Morrison Parkway Maxwell Road Fanfare Way Encore Parkway North Point Parkway Georgia 400

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ALPHA LOOP FEASIBILITY STUDY EXISTING CONDITIONS

HAYNES BRIDGE ROAD LTS 4 (Mansell Road to Old Milton Parkway) and LTS 2 (Old Milton Parkway to Academy Street) Haynes Bridge Road is an arterial road with a typical right-of-way of approximately 150 feet. It has six total travel lanes along most of the corridor, with three travel lanes in each direction and a landscaped center median, as well as dedicated turn lanes approaching major intersections. Sidewalks are present on both sides of the road, with 8foot sidewalks on the east side and 5-foot sidewalks on the west side. Although there is sufficient space to widen the sidewalk on the east side of the road, light poles and utility poles are located near the sidewalk and may complicate a potential sidewalk expansion. There are four-foot-wide, unbuffered, on-street bike lanes on both side of the street. The presence of bike lanes is inconsistent across the corridor, dropping off for several segments. There are no bike lane markings across intersections. There is only one curb cut on Haynes Bridge Road between the GA 400 ramp and the Lake View Parkway intersection, limiting potential conflict points for trail users. There are two at-grade intersections where the Alpha Loop Extension could cross Haynes Bridge Road: the GA 400 ramp intersection and the intersection of Lake View Parkway.

GA 400 Ramp Intersection The currently proposed Alpha Loop Extension route crosses Haynes Bridge Road on the north side of the intersection with the GA 400 entrance ramp. The pedestrian crossing distance at this intersection is approximately 105 feet from the eastern curb to the corner island to the west. There is also a 14-foot-wide continuous right turn lane onto the GA 400 ramp between the corner island and the sidewalk. A newly constructed, office-centered, mixed-use development east of Haynes Bridge Road called Summit Place has included on-street bicycle lanes throughout its road network, leading up to the intersection of Haynes Bridge Road and GA 400.

Lakeview Parkway/North Winds Parkway Intersection Lake View Parkway/North Winds Parkway intersect Haynes Bridge Road approximately 940 feet north of the GA 400 intersection. The pedestrian crossing distance is approximately 110 feet from the corner island on the east to the curb on the west. A continuous right turn lane from Haynes Bridge Road onto Northwinds Parkway creates a potential conflict point between vehicles and trail users; however there are likely lower volumes of traffic traveling at a lower speeds here compared to the GA 400 ramp intersection. It should be considered as a potential alternative trail crossing to avoid the GA 400 ramp intersection. Given the switchback likely needed to address the steep topography on the west side of Haynes Bridge Road, relocating the route to this intersection would not cause an undue Existing crosswalk at the intersection of Haynes Bridge Road and the Georgia 400 ramp. increase in trip length.

While a trail crossing at this point would link Summit Place to the proposed 360 Tech Village mixed-use Existing crosswalk at the intersection of Haynes Bridge Road and the Georgia 400 ramp. community on the other side, the locations has potential drawbacks to user comfort and safety. The continuous right turn movement and relatively high speeds entering the highway create a conflict point and may feel intimidating to pedestrians and cyclists. The land on the west side of the intersection has a steep dropoff and would likely require a switchback or other design feature to gradually ramp down to ground level at a slope that meets Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements.

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ALPHA LOOP FEASIBILITY STUDY EXISTING CONDITIONS

LAKEVIEW PARKWAY/NORTHWINDS PARKWAY

WESTSIDE PARKWAY/MORRISON PARKWAY

LTS 3 (Morrison Parkway to Kimball Bridge Road) and LTS 1 (Kimball Bridge Road to Old Milton Parkway)

(LTS 4)

Lakeview Parkway/Northwinds Parkway is a collector road that connects Morrison Parkway to the main entrance of Avalon and Gwinnett Technical Collage at Old Milton Parkway. It has attracted multiple new office developments in recent years and will be the front door to the new 360 Tech Village development. Several large, developable parcels near Avalon will likely attract additional development to the corridor.

Westside Parkway/Morrison Parkway is an arterial road that runs loosely parallel to GA 400 throughout most of the City of Alpharetta, one of few routes to provide long-distance connectivity through the city. Within the area of interest, it is one of several routes to get from Avalon to the future BRT station at North Point Mall and could be considered as an alternate or supporting route to the currently proposed alignment through the wooded area north of GA 400.

The section between Morrison Parkway and Kimball Bridge Road is generally a four-lane road with a landscaped center median and turn lanes approaching intersections. A former North Winds Parkway east of Haynes Bridge Road continuous right turn lane at Haynes Bridge Road has been filled in. There are mature trees planted next to a existing 5foot sidewalks on both sides of the street for most of this section, which may limit or complicate potential sidewalk expansion. There are no existing bicycle facilities along this segment of the road.

At Kimball Bridge Road, the right-of-way widens to accommodate on-street, unbuffered bike lanes in both directions, wider sidewalk buffers, and wider sidewalks. A 10-foot-wide path has already been installed on the east side of the road from Kimball Bridge Road to Old Milton Parkway. The on-street bike lanes end at Kimball Bridge Road and are not included in the current intersection design. Because Kimball Bridge Road is a ridge line, there are steep sections on either side of the intersection, which may discourage some cyclists from using the route.

131

There is no sidewalk on the north side of the street between Hembree Road and Haynes Bridge Road. Closer to Encore Parkway, from Maxwell Road to Arts Summit, berms and mature landscaping on the north side of the street limit the potential to easily widen sidewalks on that side. There is space to widen the sidewalk along most of the south side, though some street lights would have to be relocated.

Westside Parkway approaching Encore Parkway

New multiuse path on North Winds Parkway approaching Avalon

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ALPHA LOOP FEASIBILITY STUDY EXISTING CONDITIONS

MAXWELL ROAD

FANFARE WAY

LTS 4 (South Main Street to Westside Parkway) and LTS 3 (Westside Parkway to Fanfare Way)

(LTS 3)

Maxwell Road is a local street connecting residences and Fulton County Science Academy to Westside Parkway. It is a three-lane road with 12-foot-wide lanes, no bicycle facilities, and 5-foot-wide sidewalks on both sides. Widening the sidewalk on the south side of the road to accommodate a shared-use path has few conflicts, with no curb cuts, utility poles, or street lights on this side of the street. A steep dropoff just behind the tree line on the north side of the road, as well as a fire hydrant, on the north side of the street would make it harder to accommodate a shared use path on that side.

Fanfare Way is a local road running parallel to Westside Parkway from Fulton Science Academy to Encore Parkway. It has one travel lane in each direction with a center turn lane/buffer, no bicycle facilities, and 5-footwide sidewalks on both sides. Left turn movements from Fanfare Way onto Encore Parkway are restricted by a center median on Encore Parkway, which forces drivers to make a U-turn at Westside Parkway to turn left. A median refuge for cyclists may need to be considered if bicycle facilities were added to this road, as the U-turn movement for cyclists would be difficult.

Maxwell Road south of Westside Parkway

Fanfare Road offers a relatively low stress alternative to Westside Parkway from Maxwell Road to Encore Parkway, but a raised median on Encore Parkway restricts left turns toward the North Point Mall area and Big Creek Greenway

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ENCORE PARKWAY

NORTH POINT PARKWAY

(LTS 2)

LTS 4 (Mansell Road to Haynes Bridge Road; Kimball Bridge Road to Old Milton Parkway) and LTS 3 (Haynes Bridge Road to Kimball Bridge Road)

Encore Parkway is the southern connection across Georgia 400 within the study area. It is a newly constructed four-lane road with a planted median, on-street bike lanes, and 8-foot-wide sidewalks on both sides. The design is comfortable for pedestrians, with human scale lighting, landscaping, and hardscaping along the bridge. The existing bike lanes terminate at Westside Parkway to the north and North Point Parkway to the south.

North Point Parkway is a major collector that runs parallel to Georgia 400 on the south side of the highway from Mansell Road to Windward Parkway. It has five travel lanes, a center turn lane/median, no bicycle facilities, and 5-foot-wide sidewalks on both sides within the study area. An access point to Big Creek Greenway is located on the south side of North Point Parkway across from the North Point Mall. There is only one curb cut on the south side of North Point Parkway between Encore Parkway and the entrance to Big Creek Greenway. In some spots, there is a steep dropoff next to the existing sidewalk on the south side and street lights close to the sidewalk, which could present a challenge in widening it to accommodate a shared use path.

North Point Parkway at Encore Parkway

Encore Parkway bridge with bike lane and separated sidewalk (left) and at grade with landscaped median and sidewalk buffer (right)

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ALPHA LOOP FEASIBILITY STUDY EXISTING CONDITIONS

GEORGIA 400 LTS 4

Existing Georgia 400 is a major highway that provides regional connections for Alpharetta, but creates a barrier between the north and south sides of the city. There are currently four travel lanes and a shoulder in each direction, a total of approximately 140 feet of pavement. There are wooded buffers on both sides of the highway, approximately 280 feet wide to the north and 210 feet wide to the south. Within the study area, Haynes Bridge Road and Encore Parkway are the only bridges across the highway.

Figure 3. GA 400 Express Lanes Typical Section - Northridge Road to McGinnis Ferry Road (Source: GDOT)

Georgia 400 Express Lanes Project A significant expansion of Georgia 400 is currently being designed, led by the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) and the State Road and Tollway Georgia 400 southbound approaching Encore Parkway bridge Authority (SRTA). The project is one of 11 Major Mobility Investment Program projects and will feature express lanes and Bus Rapid Transit (BRT). Construction is expected to begin in 2021. Figures 1 and 2 below illustrate the proposed configuration.

Express Lanes The proposed design will add two buffer-separated lanes in each direction from the North Springs MARTA Station to McFarland Parkway, including the study area, and one buffer-separated express lane in each direction further north from McFarland Parkway to McGinnis Ferry Road. The new express lanes will have dynamic pricing. GDOT has identified an express lane access point north of the study area near Webb Bridge Road, which will tie into Westside Parkway to the west and Morris Road to the east. GDOT is not planning to add direct express lane access points at Haynes Bridge Road or Encore Parkway.

Bridges The recently constructed Encore Parkway bridge was designed to be wide enough for the entire express lanes project to pass underneath the existing bridge. The Haynes Bridge Road bridge will be retained and have a partial ramp reconstruction to accommodate the new design.

Transit A BRT system will run along the Georgia 400 corridor, providing high-capacity transit using the new express lanes. The minimum wait time between buses is expected to be 10 minutes. The lanes and stations will be located in the center of the corridor, with station access via pedestrian bridges. The North Point Mall area has been identified as a future station location, but an exact location has yet to be determined. The City of Alpharetta has requested an inline BRT station connecting to a parking deck at North Point Mall. The BRT line will connect to the existing MARTA rail line at the North Springs MARTA Station.

TOOLE DESIGN | 16

Figure 2. Rendering of planned GA 400 expansion at Haynes Bridge Road looking south (Source: GDOT)

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Alternate Alignment Maxwell Park Route Maxwell Park

XW MA ELL

Maxwell Park Route (Alternative)

MORRISON LAKE

AY EW

R FA

N FA

990

1000

1020

1010

BRT AMENITIES

1020

1040

Planned BRT Station & Overpass

1050

R/W

1030

1060

R/W

1040

ROJECT R/W SS LANES P E R P X E 0 0 4 SR R/W ROW FOR THER/W D REQUIRED PROPOSE

1040

400

R/W 1040

R/W

The proposed extension of the Alpha Loop includes a connection to the future MARTA BRT station along GA 400. It should be noted that the alternate alignment poses complications in connecting to the proposed location of the BRT station. Further studies and coordination with MARTA would be needed to evaluate its feasibility.

Construction of the alternate alignment is estimated at approx. $4M, inclusive of demolition, grading, trail construction, lighting, and streetscape improvements. This is a preliminary estimate, and further studies are needed to refine the design and costs associated with Fanfare Way improvements. The portion of original trail alignment to be replaced by this alternate is estimated at approx. $2.5M.

Fanfare Way Improvements (Maxwell Road to Encore Parkway

1050

1060

1070

R/W

135

Alternate Trail Alignment

1040

R/W

MARTA BRT CROSSING

PRELIMINARY COST

R/W

The above alternate trail alignment is proposed as a contingency in the event that improvements to GA 400 are more extensive than currently planned. The alternative reduces the amount of trail constructed adjacent to GA 400 and connects the Alpha Loop to Maxwell Park and Fanfare Way. It is assumed that an at-grade accessible trail can be constructed along the proposed alignment with minor grading. If pursued, further studies Scale: 1" = 100'-0" will be needed to incorporate safe pedestrian and cyclist crossings and streetscape improvements along Fanfare Way to complete a multi-use trail connection to Encore Parkway.

FUTURE BRT CONNECTION

R/W

PURPOSE

R/W

1030

50'

100'

200'

Legend

Trail Alignment

A Proposed Crosswalk

Alpha Loop Connection Alpha Loop Alternative

A w1 ts Ar

mmit Rd Su

Way e r a f n a F H S w2 A K

A w1

Trash Receptacle

Bike Repair Kiosk

Bike Racks

w1 Off-Trail Wayfinding Signage

Seating

Retaining Wall

w2 On-Trail Wayfinding Signage

Water Refill

Elevated Walk

Gateways

Maxwell Park Route (Alternative) w1

Fulton Science Academy

Artisan Connection (Planned)

Artisan

w2 T

Comfort Station

Maxwell Connection

A w1

wy k P e Tempo Ln d i s t s e W Connection

Rd Maxwell

Arts Summit Connection

Alpha Loop

w2 T

S K

Elevated Walk

K B

S w2

w2 T

S H C K

400

ore Enc

North Point Center Spur

Pkw

Mansell Crossing

w2 A w2

rt o N

ter E Cen t oin P h

400

Planned BRT Station & Overpass

A w2

North Point Mall

0’

600’

136