Multi-Modal Study The Grove at Shoal Creek|11.2015
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1|INTRODUCTION
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Background and Project Approach
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Project Purpose
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Key Issues
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Stakeholder Involvement
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Other Studies
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2 | EXISTING CONDITIONS
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General Observations
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Pedestrian Environment
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Bicycling
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Transit
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3|MULTI-MODAL PLAN
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About The Plan
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Pedestrian Environment
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Bicycling
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Traffic Calming
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Transit
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4 | RECOMMENDATIONS
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About The Recommendations
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Recommended Overall Multi-Modal Plan
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Recommended Short Term Improvements (2015 to 2020)
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Recommended Intermediate Term Improvements (2020 to 2030)
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Recommended Long Term Improvements (2025 to 2035)
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5 | CONCLUSIONS
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1|INTRODUCTION BACKGROUND AND PROJECT APPROACH
The Grove at Shoal Creek is a proposed master-planned community with a vision to create a legacy-quality neighborhood and model for innovative mixed-use urban infill development. As illustrated in Figure 1, the project site is uniquely situated within central Austin along Shoal Creek and Bull Creek Road. The proposed Mixed-Use Development (MXD) is a people- and community-oriented development with the goal to promote multi-modal mobility throughout the neighborhood and integrate sustainable design strategies with the history and natural character of the land. With high population growth rates and an expanding economy, the City of Austin is frequently listed as one of the nation’s top fastest growing cities. Like many cities around the nation experiencing growth, the City of Austin faces tremendous housing and transportation challenges. Infill development strategies have become a common approach to address issues such as housing shortages, transportation, congestion and environmental costs associated with an increase in population. The MXD is a relatively new development classification and is very different from the previous development types which were traditionally considered as standalone, urban developments. These locations traditionally provided limited or no transit service and had limited or no bicycle or pedestrian amenities. Because of these development patterns, there was little accountability for onand off-site interaction. Infill development, such as The Grove, is the process of developing vacant or under-used parcels within existing urban areas that are largely developed for creating residential densities high enough to support improved transportation choices. However, it also raises important issues about fairness and the well-being of established central city neighborhoods. For infill development such as The Grove to be successful, developers must account for the needs of established residents to ensure that the new development fits the existing context and gains neighborhood acceptance. The Grove will have unique characteristics that will focus on both on- and off-site access and interaction, with attention given to pedestrian, bicycle and transit amenities.
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Pedestrian safety and multi-modal mobility has been at the forefront of residents of the surrounding neighborhoods including Allendale, Brykerwoods, Highland Park West/Balcones Area, Oakmont Heights, Ridgelea, Rosedale, and Westminster. This study aims to enhance non-automobile access within the neighborhoods to allow The Grove and surrounding area residents the ability to access all parts of the site via walking, biking, and transit. The study’s two-pronged approach will focus on: 1) a series of system-level improvements to promote the use of alternative modes and reduce modal conflicts, and 2) street levelimprovements specifically targeted at improving pedestrian safety at intersections and street crossings. These approaches are based on the recognition that making neighborhoods safer and friendlier for pedestrians and bicyclists requires a broad vision of the entire neighborhood transportation system, and fundamental changes to the way its infrastructure is designed. PROJECT PURPOSE Working with neighborhood representatives, the project team defined a two-fold purpose for this study:
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To provide specific solutions to make The Grove development accessible from surrounding neighborhoods via walking, biking and transit.
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To provide solutions to minimize the impact of the development on surrounding neighborhoods.
As the project purpose was developed, a number of key issues were identified specific to this study. These key issues are summarized as follows: KEY ISSUES Creating a safe and connected neighborhood for pedestrians and bicyclists. Enhancing cross-street access for pedestrians and bicyclists. Becoming less reliant on the automobile by encouraging the use of alternative modes. Provide traffic-calming measures to prevent cut-through traffic on neighborhood streets.
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STAKEHOLDER INVOLVEMENT To determine what amenities are needed to encourage non-automobile use, The Grove undertook a significant public outreach program within an expanded study area – Hancock Dr (north), Burnet Rd/Medical Pkwy (east), 38th St/35th St south) and MoPac Expwy (west). An illustration of the study boundary is located in Figure 2. Residents were asked what improvements they would like to see within this area. This could include everything from speed cushions and traffic circles to sidewalks and bike lanes. The primary goal being what the residents need in order to make their neighborhoods safer for walkers and bicycle users as well as what amenities the residents would need to make The Grove and attractive place for them to visit. A summary of the public comments gathered during this time extensive study are as follows: Provide safer pedestrian access to/from the site primarily from north of 45th St and West of Bull Creek Rd. Provide pedestrian access to the Shoal Creek Trail. Traffic calming devices to discourage both speed and cut through traffic. Roadways of concern include: Jackson Ave, Bull Creek Rd, Oakmont Blvd, Finley Dr, and Great oaks Pkwy. Provide an enhanced pedestrian crosswalk at the intersection of 45th St and Shoal Creek Blvd. Install intersection controls at Oakmont Blvd and 36th St, 37th St, 38th St, and 39th St. Install a traffic signal at the intersection of 40th St and Bull Creek Rd. Install pedestrian medians/refuge islands at intersections along Bull Creek Rd to provide safer pedestrian crossing and to prohibit vehicles turning left from Bull Creek Rd or left from the side streets. Implement a residential parking program. Signalized pedestrian crossing at the intersection of 45th St and Sinclair Ave or 45th St and Ramsey Ave. Pedestrian bridge crossing 45th St between Shoal Creek Blvd and Bull Creek Rd. Pedestrian bridge across Shoal Creek connecting The Grove to Shoal Creek Blvd.
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Neighborhood sidewalks along one or both sides of the following roadways: o Bull Creek Rd from 38th St to Hancock Dr o 36th St o 37th St o 38th St o 39th St o 40th St o 41st St o 42nd St o Oakmont Blvd o Lawton St Install dedicated bike lanes along both the north and south sides of 45th St especially west of Shoal Creek Blvd providing connectivity west of MoPac. Install dedicated cycle track along Jackson Ave between Bull Creek Rd and 35th St, ultimately providing connectivity to the proposed Lone Star Rail stop. Lower the speed limit to 25 MPH along Bull Creek Rd. Improve neighborhood bike access to the planned City of Austin Cycle Track along the Hancock Dr bridge (Safe Routes to School). Incorporate B-Cycle stations.
OTHER STUDIES A number of other completed transportation studies in the Austin area informed this Multi-Modal Transportation Study. These studies include, the Imagine Austin Comprehensive Plan (2012), Austin Bicycle Plan (2014), City of Austin Urban Trails Master Plan (2014), and the Sidewalk Master Plan (2009).
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Figure 1 Site Location
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Figure 2 Study Boundary
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2 | EXISTING CONDITIONS GENERAL OBSERVATIONS The population of Austin has increased tremendously over the last 5 to 10 years. Traffic congestion has been on the rise as a result. Some neighborhoods now experience more cut-through traffic than before. Speed pillows have been previously installed on some neighborhood streets to the north and southeast of the proposed Grove site. Additionally, the sidewalk network within the study area is mostly incomplete with the majority of existing sidewalks located along busy arterials and collectors. Several existing bicycle lanes traverse the study area as well as other bicycle and transit routes. A multi-use trail, Shoal Creek Trail, begins southeast of the study area and continues south to Lady Bird Lake. Despite an incomplete network of multi-modal transportation infrastructure, residents of the study area frequently walk and ride their bikes within their neighborhoods. Residents are concerned the new development will generate additional traffic and create further barriers to walking and bicycling. Although the proposed development plans to provide multi-modal transportation access throughout its site, one of the major challenges will be coordinating improvements to streets and sidewalks in the project’s vicinity that are either city or privately controlled. PEDESTRIAN ENVIRONMENT Currently, out of a potential of 45.6 miles, the study area has 31.2 linear miles (68.4%) of absent sidewalks, or sidewalk gaps. Pedestrian safety has been a primary concern for area residents. Currently, only four marked pedestrian crosswalks exist on the 1 mile extent of Bull Creek Rd from 45th St to Jefferson St. The crosswalks are located at the intersections with 45th St, Jackson Ave, 40th St, and Jefferson St. The intersections on 45th St and Jefferson St include pedestrian signalization, whereas the other two include pedestrian signage. In addition, near the southeastern boundary of the study area exists the northern end of the Shoal Creek Trail, a shared-use facility used for walking, jogging, hiking, and bicycling. The trail, approximately 4 miles long, runs mostly along Shoal Creek from 38th St and continues south to downtown and Lady Bird Lake. An illustration of the study area’s existing pedestrian environment is shown in Figure 3.
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BICYCLING The study area has an active bicycle community and includes a combination of bicycle routes and bicycle lanes. Although both are intended for bicycle use, there are important differences between them. A bicycle route is a roadway that is officially marked and designated for bicycle use, but which is open to motor vehicle travel and upon which no bicycle lane is designated. A bicycle lane is a portion of a roadway that has been designated for exclusive use by bicyclists through the use of pavement markings and signs. There is an existing bicycle lane on Bull Creek Rd, directly adjacent to the proposed development. In total, there are 3.8 miles of bicycle lanes, 4.8 miles of bicycle routes, and 123 meters of trails within the study area. Figure 4 illustrates the locations of all bicycle facilities within and adjacent to the study area. TRANSIT The study area is served by seven Capital Metro transit service routes, including Local, Limited and Flyer, Crosstown, Special Services, UT Shuttle, MetroRapid, and Express Routes. Additionally, there are 45 existing bus stops. Four signed bus stops and one covered bus facility are located directly adjacent to the proposed development on Bull Creek Rd. The site of the proposed development is served by two bus routes including the 19 Bull Creek and 491 Allandale. The 19 Bull Creek is a daily Local Service Route with multiple-stop service to-and-from downtown. The Special Services Route 491 Allandale, which runs three days a week, is a neighborhood circulator aimed for older citizens and passengers with mobility difficulties. It stops at several of the area’s major medical complexes, shopping malls and grocery stores. Figure 5 shows the existing transit facilities and routes within the study area and the vicinity.
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Figure 3 Existing Pedestrian Facilities
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Figure 4 Existing Bicycle Facilities
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Figure 5 Existing Transit Facilities
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3|MULTI-MODAL PLAN ABOUT THE PLAN The multi-modal plan addresses safety and mobility needs for pedestrians and bicyclists. Its goal is not only to provide enhanced non-vehicular access to the site, but also to identify, classify and prioritize neighborhood needs. This will enable the residents to work with the City in the determination of implementation and/or construction. The multi-modal plan is built on the following parameters:
Provide pedestrian connectivity Provide enhanced pedestrian safety Build upon existing bicycle network to provide bicycle connectivity
Improvements should encourage alternative modes of transportation Incorporate Complete Streets concepts
PEDESTRIAN ENVIRONMENT It is widely understood that the City of Austin has significant gaps in the area-wide sidewalk network. As presented in the existing conditions analysis, the study area has a high percentage of absent sidewalks or sidewalk gaps in its network. These gaps not only prevent residents from walking to nearby establishments, they also present safety concerns. Where there are not adequate sidewalks people are forced to walk in the streets or along undesignated paths. These present significant access and safety problems for residents and in particular residents with any type of mobility impairment. As shown in the comment summary in Section 1 – Stakeholder Involvement, several residents expressed the desire for new and improved sidewalk connectivity. Many residents indicated that given
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the absence of neighborhood sidewalks, they are required to walk in the unsafe roadway. Sidewalks provide many benefits in the areas of safety, health, and economics. A sidewalk can be in the form of a traditional concrete walkway or, as proposed by The Grove, a wide mixed use path that will allow the mobility impaired, walkers, bikers and joggers site access. A multi-use trail/path, or shared-use path, is a walkway that is physically separated from motor vehicle traffic by a physical barrier and may be used by pedestrians and bicyclists alike. By providing a separate facility for pedestrians to travel on, the risk of crashes is dramatically reduced. In addition, the wider the separation between the pedestrian and the roadway, the more safe and comfortable it is for pedestrians. Studies have shown that people with access to comfortable sidewalks are more likely to walk. There are also added health and economic benefits to sidewalks. Studies have shown that walking contributes to both physical and mental well-being. Additionally, trends indicate that walkable neighborhoods are highly desirable and contribute to improved aesthetics and increased property values. In order to address both the walkability of the neighborhoods and access to and from the site, the following recommendations were highlighted by the residents. Each are discussed below and are depicted in Figure 6: Allow for residents from the Rosedale neighborhood easier and safer access to the site by building a pedestrian and bicycle bridge over Shoal Creek connecting Shoal Creek Blvd and the The Grove property. This would require approval or an easement from the State of Texas as The Grove does not own or control any property between Shoal Creek and Shoal Creek Blvd. Sidewalks along both sides of Bull Creek Rd between 45th and Hancock Dr. Bull Creek Rd is bounded by residential neighborhoods and currently pedestrians must walk along the street edge to go anywhere. The installation of the sidewalks would allow safe residential access between neighborhoods as well as provide a safe walkway down to The Grove. Sidewalks along entire length of Oakmont Blvd (north of 45th St) and Chiappero Trl. The residents of these neighborhoods interact with each other quick frequently. Currently there is no sidewalk availability and residents are walking in the streets. Providing sidewalks, allows for safer pedestrian neighborhood access.
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Installation of a pedestrian hybrid beacon at the intersection of 45th St and 2627 45th St. The pedestrian activated traffic signal will allow for safe pedestrian crossings for neighborhoods north of the site. Sidewalks along one side of 36th St through 42nd St, south side of 45th St, Oakmont Blvd and Lawton St. The residents of these neighborhoods interact with each other quite frequently. Currently there is no sidewalk availability and residents are walking in the streets. Providing sidewalks, allows for safer pedestrian neighborhood access. Installation of a pedestrian hybrid beacon at the intersection of 45th St and Sinclair Ave or 45th St and Ramsey Ave. The residents of the Rosedale and Allendale neighborhoods are continually crossing 45th St on foot to access Ramsey Park or other neighborhood activities. Because of the speeds along 45th St, the installation of a pedestrian activated traffic signal at either of these locations would make these crossings much safer. Pedestrian bridge crossing 45th St between Shoal Creek and Bull Creek Rd.
ON-SITE PEDESTRIAN FACILITIES
The Grove at Shoal Creek development will include multiple wide pedestrian pathways. The paths will provide connections from the surrounding neighborhoods to the site’s interior parks and retail. In addition, there will be a new pedestrian hybrid beacon at the proposed 45th St access location to provide safe crossings for residents coming from neighborhoods to the north. NEIGHBORHOOD PEDESTRIAN NEEDS
To further improve pedestrian accessibility to the proposed development from the surrounding neighborhoods, other neighborhood-wide improvements are needed. The comments received from the stakeholder involvement served as a basis for the development of the neighborhood-wide pedestrian needs. A list of priority recommendations for the City of Austin are as follows: Enhanced pedestrian crossing at the intersection of 45th St and Bull Creek Rd to provide for safer crossing Pedestrian hybrid beacon at the intersection of 45th St and Ramsey to provide for safer crossing and access to Ramsey Park Installation of a sidewalk along the southern side of 45th St between Bull Creek Rd and Shoal Creek • Installation of a direct access route to the Shoal Creek Trail from the southeast corner
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BICYCLING As shown in Section 1 – Bicycling, the study area is part of the citywide bicycle network and includes 8.6 miles of bicycle facilities which features bicycle routes and bicycle lanes. Through stakeholder involvement sessions, several residents have expressed the desire for enhanced bicycle access to and from the proposed development. This not only includes the existing bicycle lane on Bull Creek Rd adjacent to the proposed development, but also other bicycle facilities beyond the site. The following recommendations were highlighted by the residents: Pedestrian and bicycle bridge over Shoal Creek connecting Shoal Creek Blvd and The Grove property. The Grove will be setting aside an easement for this construction should the City or others decide to build. Cycle-Track or dedicated bicycle lane along the east side of Bull Creek Rd north of 45th St connecting 45th St to Hancock Dr. The section of Bull Creek Rd is a City bicycle route but there are no on-street bicycle lanes. By installing all-ages and all-ability bike lanes, the residents and bike riders alike, can utilize the lanes in a safe environment. Cycle-Track or dedicated bicycle lane along the east side of Bull Creek Rd between 45th St to 38th St. This part of Bull Creek Rd is also a designated bike route, but there are on-street bike lanes. The City has indicated their desire for an all-ages all-abilities cycle-track. Install dedicated bike lanes along both the north and south sides of 45 th Street Especailly west of Shoal Creek Blvd providing connectivity west of MoPac. Install dedicated cycle track along Jackson Ave between Bull Creek and 35th Street. Ultimately provding connectivity to the proposed Lone Star Rail stop. Lower the speed limit to 25 MPH along Bull Creek. Improve neighborhood bike access to the planned City of Austin Cycle Track along the Hancock Dr bridge (Safe Routes to School). Incorporate B-Cycle stations.
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ON-SITE BICYCLE FACILITIES
The Grove on Shoal Creek will provide ample bicycle facilities on-site to accommodate individuals wanting to bike. In addition to providing neighborhood connectivity to the site, there will be ample on-site bicycle parking that will encourage neighbors to bike, as well as enhance the bicycle experience. In general bike parking will be located conveniently to building entrances and in high visibility locations near retail, restaurant and office land uses. NEIGHBORHOOD BICYCLE NEEDS
The City of Austin has a vast network of bicycling facilities which totaled 210 miles by the end of 2014. Through the adoptions of both the Urban Trails Master Plan and the Bicycle Master Plan in 2014, the City of Austin has committed to funding and building an even more extensive and improved network of bicycle facilities. The proposed network will be composed of protected bike lanes, urban trails, and quiet residential streets all integrated seamlessly to provide safe and easy connections throughout the city. Recommendations specific to the study area’s network include an all-ages all-abilities buffered bike lane on Bull Creek Rd along with other facility upgrades. Implementation of these recommendations will not only provide access to the site, but also allow neighborhood bikes the ability to get to and from the Shoal Creek Trail, work, or other needs. Figure 7 shows the study area’s proposed bicycle network from the 2014 City of Austin Bicycle Master Plan and Table 1 provides a list of the plan recommendations specific to the study area. Considering the recommendations requested by residents during the study’s stakeholder involvement sessions, this plan recommends the installation of a cycle-track on Bull Creek Rd from Hancock to 38th St as a priority for the City of Austin.
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Table 1: City of Austin, 2014 Bicycle Master Plan Facility Recommendations Street Name
From
To
Existing Facility
Recommended Facility
All Ages and Abilities Network
35TH ST
BALCONES DR
W 38TH ST
Shared Lane
Protected BL
38TH ST
JEFFERSON ST
W 35TH ST
Shared Lane
Shared Lane
38TH ST
W 35TH ST
GUADALUPE ST
Shared Lane
Protected BL
40TH ST
SHOAL CREEK BLVD
MEDICAL PKWY
Shared Lane
Bike Lane
45TH ST
HIGHLAND TER
AIRPORT BLVD
Shared Lane
Protected BL
49TH ST
SHOAL CREEK BLVD
WOODROW AVE
Wide Curb Lane
Bike Lane
BULL CREEK RD
HANCOCK DR
W 45TH ST
Wide Curb Lane
Buffered BL
Yes
BULL CREEK RD
W 45TH ST
W 38TH ST
Bike LanePK
Buffered BL
Yes
HANCOCK DR
VALLEY OAK DR
WEST FRANCES PL
Wide Shoulder
Protected BL
Yes
HANCOCK DR
WEST FRANCES PL
BURNET RD
Bike Lane
Protected BL
Yes*
JEFFERSON ST
W 38TH ST
W 35TH ST
Bike LanePK
Buffered BL
Yes
MEDICAL PKWY
BURNET RD
W 34TH ST
Bike Lane
Buffered BL
MOPAC
N MOPAC EXPY SVRD SBN MOPAC EXPY SVRD SB Shared Lane
Urban Trail
MOPAC
S MOPAC EXPY SVRD NBS MOPAC EXPY SVRD NB Shared Lane
Urban Trail
*A portion of this segment is in the all ages and abilities network.
TRAFFIC CALMING The study area includes major thoroughfares in the City of Austin including MoPac Expressway, 35thSt/38th St, 45th St, Burnet Rd, and Hancock Dr. The neighborhoods in the study area experience residential cut-through traffic, or traffic which uses local or collector streets to travel through a residential neighborhood without having an origin or destination within the neighborhood. Residential cut-through traffic not only reduces the safety within the neighborhood, but also its livability. To address these issues, traffic calming measures are put in place. Traffic calming, as defined by the Institute of Transportation Engineers, is the combination of mainly physical measures that reduce the negative effects of motor vehicle use, alter driver behavior and improve conditions for non-motorized street users. Measures include physical structures such as pedestrian refuge islands, traffic circles, and speed humps. Currently, the study area contains 15 speed pillows, or speed humps, and one traffic circle. Figure 8 illustrates the locations of the existing traffic calming measures within the study area. The following traffic calming recommendations were highlighted by the residents during the stakeholder involvement sessions:
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Traffic calming devices to discourage both speed and cut through traffic. Roadways of concern include: Jackson Ave, Bull Creek Rd, Oakmont Blvd, Finley Dr, and Great oaks Pkwy. Install intersection controls such as those shown on Figure 9 at Oakmont Blvd and 36th St, 37th St, 38th St, and 39th St. Install pedestrian medians/refuge islands at intersections along Bull Creek Rd to provide safer pedestrian crossing and to prohibit vehicles turning left from Bull Creek Rd or left from the side streets.
ON-SITE TRAFFIC CALMING NEEDS
The Grove will be installing pedestrian refuge islands along Bull Creek Rd from 45th St to 35th St to prevent cut-through traffic through the Oakmont neighborhood. NEIGHBORHOOD TRAFFIC CALMING NEEDS
To address other neighborhood-wide traffic calming needs, speed humps/pillows should be installed on Great Oaks Pkwy (to discourage drivers using this as an alternate route between 45th St and Shoal Creek Blvd, and Oakmont Blvd and Lawton Ave south of Bull Creek Rd. Figure 10 illustrates the proposed traffic measures for the study area. TRANSIT A transit system is an important aspect of multi-modal transportation. As described in Section 1 – Transit, the study area currently has good transit service, but lacks comfortable bus stop facilities such as covered seating. To maintain an effective and efficient transit system, the riding experience must include safety and comfort. The following transit comments were provided by the residents: Increase the route frequencies.
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ON-SITE TRANSIT FACILITIES
To improve the transit riding experience, the developer will be providing on-site enhanced transit stops with covered seating to build refuges for riders and a place to sit. NEIGHBORHOOD TRANSIT NEEDS
No comments were received during the stakeholder involvement sessions regarding neighborhood-wide transit needs, therefore this study does not include any recommendations on this particular item.
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Figure 6
Pedestrian Recommendations
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Figure 7 2014 Bicycle Master Plan
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Figure 8 Existing Speed Pillows
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Figure 9 Intersection Controls
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Figure 10
Traffic Calming Recommendations
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4 | RECOMMENDATIONS ABOUT THE RECOMMENDATIONS The recommended multi-modal improvements were developed based upon comments received from neighborhood residents, projected future development, environmental considerations/constraints and transportation network continuity. This section identifies the recommended multi-modal plans and assigns a priority ranking to each. RECOMMENDED OVERALL MULTI-MODAL PLAN The recommended Overall Multi-Modal Plan for The Grove and the surrounding neighborhoods includes the implementation of both on- and off-site improvements, as they relate to The Grove, as well as the identification of off-site residential needs. The Multi-Modal plan includes a short term implementation plan (2015 to 2020), intermediate term implementation plan (2020 to 2025), and a long range plan (2025 to 2035). Included are projects both related to the development of The Grove as well as those projects that will have to be implemented by the City of Austin. It should be noted that other than those projects directly related to The Grove, the implementation priority is directly related to the expressed residential concerns. The developer of The Grove will assist the neighborhoods in expediting the identified needs; however, the ultimate approval and construction of these improvements is the responsibility of the City of Austin. These projects requiring City of Austin participation have been identified as being “owned� by the City of Austin. RECOMMENDED SHORT TERM IMPROVEMENTS (2015 TO 2020) The short term improvement program includes all multi modal needs directly related to the Grove (on- and off-site) as well as those improvements most identified by the residents. The short term projects are depicted in Figure 11 and are identified in Table 2. In the short term The Grove will have completed the vast majority of all on- and off-site improvements. There will continue to be on-site improvements through the entirety of the development process, but the improvements will go hand in hand with the development of the site. The Grove
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has committed to completing the agreed to off-site improvements as expeditiously as possible. SHORT TERM PEDESTRIAN IMPROVEMENTS
Improved pedestrian facilities within the neighborhoods should be provided to reduce automobile travel demand on local roadways as well as provide recreational alternatives. As part of the development process, pedestrian improvements were identified. These will not only facilitate inter-site pedestrian activity, but will greatly improve off-site access to The Grove. On-Site - The Grove has committed to designing and constructing sidewalks and an all-user multi-use path. The sidewalks will provide pedestrian connectivity between the retail, residential, restaurant, office and recreational areas. The alluser multi use path will not only provide access for pedestrians, but will also provide access for joggers, bike riders and other recreationalists. Off-site – The City of Austin has significant “gaps” in the sidewalk network in neighborhoods surrounding The Grove. Sidewalks not only provide recreational opportunities, they allow for non-vehicular dependent mobility. Throughout the development’s planning process, the commonly expressed need has been to provide better sidewalk accessibility to “fill the gaps.” Currently residents are walking in the street, using unmarked paths, neighbor’s yards, or making unnecessary automobile trips. The following short term recommendations are recommended to be completed either by the City of Austin, The Grove or a coordinated effort between the City and The Grove. In addition to sidewalks, additional pedestrian needs have been identified. As part of the development, The Grove has agreed to design and install a pedestrian hybrid beacon at the intersection of 45th St and 2627 45th St. This pedestrian activated signal will provide a protected crossing for residents from the north to gain access to the site. An additional protected pedestrian crossing has been requested at the intersection of 45th St and Ramsey Ave or 45th St and Sinclair Ave. In conjunction with the above off-site improvements, it is recommended that additional pedestrian warning signage and pavement markings be installed at the intersection of Shoal Creek Blvd and 45th St. This will serve to further notify drivers of the presence of pedestrians as well as more clearly define where the pedestrians should cross.
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SHORT TERM BICYCLE IMPROVEMENTS
The City of Austin has an avid bicycling community, both recreational and commuting. As identified by the surrounding neighborhoods, there are many bicycle improvements needed. Most of these are identified on the Austin Bicycle Plan (2014). As part of The Grove development, The Grove is proposing to design and construct an on-site all-user multi-use path, thus it is identified separately. The construction of on-street bicycle amenities will require coordination between the City of Austin and The Grove, therefore it is also identified separately. SHORT TERM TRAFFIC CALMING IMPROVEMENTS
In order to discourage drivers from “cutting through� the Oakmont Neighborhood, pedestrian refuge or diverter islands are proposed along Bull Creek Rd. Working with the City of Austin, The Grove will work with the City of Austin on the ultimate placement, but the intent is to not allow people to turn left into the Oakmont Neighborhood from Bull Creek Rd or for drivers exiting Oakmont Blvd to turn left onto Bull Creek Rd. In addition these islands will slow down the traffic traveling along Bull Creek Rd. SHORT TERM TRANSIT IMPROVEMENTS
The Grove will work with Capital Metro on the identification and construction of enhanced transit stops. This could include items such as seating, covered waiting areas, or enhanced routing information.
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Table 2 : Short Term Multi-Modal Improvements (2015 to 2020) Mode Pedestrian – Sidewalk/Trail
Improvement
Limits
Priority
Bull Creek Rd
North of 39th St to 45th St, immediately adjacent to the site
High
Responsibility
The Grove
Pedestrian – Sidewalk/Trail
Shoal Creek Blvd Connectivity
Southeast corner of site to Shoal Creek Blvd
High
Pedestrian – Crossing
Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon
45th St and 2627 45th St
Medium
Pedestrian – Crossing
Enhanced Pedestrian Crossing
45th St and Bull Creek Rd
High
Bicycle
On-Site All-User Multi-Use Path
Throughout The Grove development
High
The Grove
Traffic Calming
Refuge/Traffic Diverter lands
Bull Creek Rd in front of site
High
The Grove
Enhanced Transit Stops
Bull Creek Rd in front of site
Medium
The Grove
Pedestrian Sidewalk
Bull Creek Rd (both sides)
Jefferson St to North of 39th St
High
Pedestrian Sidewalk
Bull Creek Rd (southbound)
Jackson Ave to 45th St
High
Transit
The Grove
City of Austin
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Pedestrian Sidewalk
Bull Creek Rd
45th St to Hancock Dr
High
Pedestrian Sidewalk
45th St (westbound)
Bull Creek to Shoal Creek Blvd
High
Pedestrian – Crossing
Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon
45th St/Sinclair Ave OR 45th St/Ramsey Avenue
High
Pedestrian – Crossing
Improved advanced warning signage
45th
St and Shoal Creek Blvd
City of Austin Medium
Dedicated Bike Lane/Cycle Track
Bicycle
Jefferson St to North of 39th St
High
City of Austin
RECOMMENDED INTERMEDIATE TERM IMPROVEMENTS (2020 TO 2030) The intermediate term improvement program will coincide with the ultimate development of The Grove, however, it is anticipated that the majority of development related off-site improvements will be completed by this time frame. As stated previously, site work will still be on-going and there will be continued work on the on-site needs. The intermediate term projects are depicted in Figure 12 and are identified in Table 3. This table provides a list of the projects by mode. Table 3 : Intermediate Term Multi-Modal Improvements (2020 to 2025) Improvement
Limits
Priority
Pedestrian - Bridge
Construct pedestrain bridge over Shoal Creek
45th at Shaol Creek
Medium
Pedestrian - Sidewalk
Oakmont Blvd Sidewalks
35th St to Bull Creek Rd
High
Pedestrian - Sidewalk
Oakmont Blvd Sidewalks
45th St to 48th St
Medium
Mode
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Pedestrian - Sidewalk
Lawton Ave Sidewalk
35th St to Bull Creek Rd
Medium
Pedestrian - Sidewalk
Jackson Ave Sidewalk (northbound)
35th St to Bull Creek Rd
Medium
Pedestrian - Sidewalk
Chiappero Trl Sidewalk
Pedestrian - Sidewalk
36th St Sidewalk
Pedestrian - Sidewalk
37th St Sidewalk
Pedestrian - Sidewalk
38th St Sidewalk
45th St to 48th Street Rd Jackson Ave to Bull Creek Rd Jackson Ave to Bull Creek Rd Jackson Ave to Bull Creek Rd
Medium
Medium
Medium
Medium
Responsibility
City of Austin
Pedestrian - Sidewalk
39th St Sidewalk
Pedestrian - Sidewalk
40th St Sidewalk
Pedestrian - Sidewalk
41st St Sidewalk
Pedestrian - Sidewalk
42nd St Sidewalk
Bicycle/Pedestrian Traffic Calming – Speed Pillows/Cushions Traffic Calming – Speed Pillows/Cushions Traffic Calming – Speed Pillows/Cushions Transit
Shoal Creek Bridge
Great Oaks Pkwy
Jackson Ave to Bull Creek Rd Jackson Ave to Bull Creek Rd Jackson Ave to Bull Creek Rd Jackson Ave to Bull Creek Rd The Grove to Shoal Creek Blvd Between Shoal Creek Blvd and 45th St
Medium
Medium
Medium
Medium
Medium
Medium
Oakmont Blvd
35th St to Bull Creek Rd
Medium
Lawton Ave
35th St to Bull Creek Rd
Medium
Enhanced Transit Stops
Bull Creek Rd between Hancock Dr and 38th St
Medium
Capital Metro/City of Austin
INTERMEDIATE-TERM PEDESTRIAN IMPROVEMENTS
These improvement have each been identified by the area residents. While ideally, pedestrian improvements are recommended for both sides of the street, given both the proximity and walkability to the Grove, one side should be constructed as quickly as possible. All recommended improvements are off-site and provide enhanced recreational opportunities as well as improved access. INTERMEDIATE-TERM BICYCLE IMPROVEMENTS
The most pressing intermediate bicycle improvement is also a pedestrian improvement. The residents of the Rosedale neighborhood have continued to request that a bridge over Shoal Creek be constructed that would ultimately
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connect The Grove to Shoal Creek Blvd. This would allow for greater bicycle and pedestrian access to the site. While The Grove will be providing an easement to allow for the bridge’s ultimate construction. They do not own or control the property between the creek and Shoal Creek Boulevard. The City of Austin will have to work in coordination with this land owner in the construction of this bridge. INTERMEDIATE-TERM TRAFFIC CALMING IMPROVEMENTS
There are several neighborhoods within the study area that have expressed concern over both excessive speeds as well as cut-through traffic. Many streets within Rosedale and Allandale have Speed Pillows/Cushions and they have helped to greatly reduce both cut through traffic and excessive speeding. It is recommended that these traffic calming devices be installed along Finely Dr, Great Oaks Pkwy, Oakmont Blvd, and Lawton Ave. INTERMEDIATE TERM TRANSIT IMPROVEMENTS
The study area is served by many different transit routes and with the potential for the Lone Star Rail stop in close proximity, it is recommended that the City of Austin work with Capital Metro and install enhanced transit stops. This can include anything from seating upgrades, covered pavilions to improved routing information. RECOMMENDED LONG TERM IMPROVEMENTS (2025 TO 2035) The long term improvement program is recommended for consideration after The Grove is completed and fully built out. In addition, by this time it is anticipated that the Lone Star rail stop will be better understood as well as Capital Metro’s long range transit plans. Given this, there are two recommendations that are made when conditions warrant. These are depicted in Figure 13 and identified in Table 4. Table 4 : Long Term Multi-Modal Improvements (2025 to 2035)
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Mode
Improvement
Limits
Priority
Responsibility
Transit
Enhanced Transit Stops
Study Area
Low
Capital Metro/City of Austin
Transit
Provide connectivity between Lone Star and neighborhood
Study Area
Low
Capital Metro/City of Austin
Figure 11
Short Term Recommendations
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Figure 12
Mid Term Recommendations
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Figure 13
Long Term Recommendations
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5 | CONCLUSIONS The development of The Grove at Shoal Creek necessitates a review of not only roadway and site related needs, but also the needs for the residents of the surrounding neighborhoods. Through the development of The Grove, we have a unique opportunity, in the heart of central Austin, to create an accessible community through the development and implementation of a robust pedestrian, bicycle and transit system. As part of the project development, The Grove will be completing all site related improvements, and will continue to work with both the surrounding neighborhoods and the City of Austin to implement those identified non-site related recommendations.
The recommendations contained within this study provide a framework for rational development of an efficient multi-modal system. Implementation of these recommendations will require continued cooperation and coordination between neighborhood residents, the City of Austin, and other officials making judicious decisions concerning the availability and use of funding mechanisms. Implementation of the various components of the plan is an important element in addressing and improving the future mobility needs to the local residents.
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