Transportation Project Questionnaire

Operational Improvements and Congestion Management Questionnaire

Project Information

Agency Name	Harris County Engineering
Project Title	Barker Cypress Road Capacity and Safety Improvements
Facility/Street/Highway	Barker Cypress Road - HGAN
Limits	From: Queenston BlvdTo: North of US 290
Description	The proposed project, which is primarily in existing right of way, widens Barker Cypress Road from four to six lanes, converting it from a four-lane asphalt section with open ditch drainage to a six-lane concrete urban section with curb-and-gutter including added sidewalks; the project includes reconstruction of the bridge over the railroad and intersection improvements along Barker Cypress Road at Queenston Boulevard, US 290 eastbound and westbound frontage roads. The improvements will reduce congestion, increase safety in the area, improve pedestrian accommodations, improve drainage due to modernizing the roadway to include curbs and gutters, reduce vehicular emissions attributable to severe traffic congestion, and decrease the travel delays for the Barker Cypress Corridor.
Timeframe	Short Term (0-5 Years)
Estimated Cost	$60,000,000.00

Investment Category-Focused Criteria

1. Is the project located on a facility listed on Texas 100 most congested roads list?

1b. If no, please provide the existing peak period travel time index (TTI) of the facility where proposed project is located.

1.5 – 1.75

1b-i. Provide a narrative describing the existing congestion where proposed project is located and describe narrative to explain methodology to calculate existing TTI.

Currently, Cy-Fair is one of the largest communities in northwest Houston and has an increased population of over 50% to nearly three-quarters of a million people since the year 2000. This population growth contributes to increased drive times in Cy-Fair which has severe impacts for residents. This congestion on Barker Cypress negatively impacts travel to and from businesses, potentially impacting economic vitality of the area. As a major route for Cy-Fair ISD (CFISD), the congestion impact children on their daily commute to and from school. Also, any events held at CFISD Berry Center which which is located three miles south of the project area, generates significant traffic, increasing congestion along Barker Cypress at US 290. To calculate the TTI for Barker Cypress Rd., the average daily free flow speed is 38 MPH but during peak congestion it is 24 MPH, giving us a 1.58 TTI.

2. What is the estimated TTI after project is implemented?

1.25 – 1.50

2a. Provide a narrative describing the existing congestion where proposed project is located. Within the narrative explain the methodology and data used to calculate existing Travel Time Index (TTI).

After the project is implemented and the TTI is reduced, the traffic flow should increase with less congestion. Intersection improvements such as yellow light intervals will reduce crashes and improve movement on the facility. Pedestrian improvements will increase residents' choice in multimodal related activities such as walking and biking to nearby establishments, both retail and commercial taking cars off the roadway. The added capacity will decrease spillbacks along the corridor which helps with traffic flow and reduced idle time for drivers.

3. Please provide a narrative to describe congestion management strategies and improvements (work types) proposed to reduce congestion on facility where the proposed project is located.

a. Added Capacity: Widen Barker Cypress to a six-lane divided roadway from Queenston Blvd. to north of US 290. b. Converting a four-lane asphalt section of road with open ditch drainage to a six-lane concrete urban section of road with curb and gutter. c. Added Capacity: Reconstruction and widening of the bridge at Barker Cypress and 290 over the railroad. d. Intersection Improvements: Intersection improvements along Barker Cypress Road at Queenston Blvd. and US 290 eastbound and westbound frontage roads. Include safety countermeasures by installing sidewalks. e. ITS: The installation of other improvements such as pedestrian push buttons (APS), highly visible pedestrian crosswalks. f. Bottleneck removal: Closing cross over at South Dr.

4. Is the proposed project located on a facility identified as a hurricane evacuation route in any regional or local plans?

4a. If no, is the proposed project located on a facility that functions as an alternative to an evacuation route?

Yes

4a-i. If yes, explain.

Barker Cypress Road (Major Thoroughfare) connects to a designated evacuation route of US-290. During the last couple of Hurricane or flood events, Barker Cypress Road was utilized as a critical north/south evacuation corridor.

Other Investment Category Focused Criteria

1. Was the project scored under Regional Goods Movement Category?

1a. If no, please provide a narrative explaining how the proposed project improves regional goods movement. Within the narrative, please include if the proposed project is designated as a critical freight corridor or a local/regional/state truck route.

The proposed project will have a positive impact on regional goods movement. The project intends to reconstruct the roadway to increase capacity, which will help accommodate the growing freight traffic crossing through, to and from the nearby commercial and industrial areas of US 290 at Barker Cypress. The project will also improve connections to major critical freight networks (US 290), which will ultimately improve the efficiency of goods movement in and out of the area and region. Furthermore, the project includes the implementation of Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) technologies, which will enhance the operational efficiency and safety of the roadway. These technologies will provide things such as yellow traffic light timing/signal coordination allowing for mitigation of congestion and delays. The proposed project will improve the connectivity and accessibility of the Barker Cypress area, making it easier for residents living on the south side of US 290 on Barker Cypress Rd. to move around to the north side of Barker Cypress Rd., which will support economic growth and development. The project will also lead to improved safety and reduced travel times, which can have a positive impact on the quality of life for local residents and businesses. Additionally, the road project and continued growth may incentivize and attract companies to consider economic opportunities offered along the corridor for growth and expansion. Overall, the proposed project will have a positive impact on regional goods movement within and through the area increasing capacity, improving connections, implementing ITS technologies, and improving the quality of life for residents. This impact extends beyond the immediate project area to regional initiatives. Harris County incentivizes and supports logistics companies and warehouse operators to develop shared delivery networks that operate during off-peak hours. Houston's market currently promotes the implementation of alternative solutions to traditional warehousing, such as cross docking, drop-shipping, Just-in-time (JIT) Inventory, virtual warehousing, and on-demand warehousing, among other options. Additionally, Harris County supports the adoption of intelligent transportation systems (ITS) among logistics companies and trucking fleets. ITS can optimize the route planning and scheduling, reduce idling times, and promote the use of alternative modes of freight transportation. In the vacant land parcels South/Southwest of Barker Cypress Rd. at Queenston it is expected to see an increase in light industrial land uses. Given the proximity to major freight corridor US 290, freight transportation will continue to evolve and expand in the area. For Harris County it becomes increasingly important to have efficient and reliable infrastructure to not only support the movement of goods and materials, but also to provide safe and resilient networks for the community.

2. Please provide a narrative explaining how the proposed project benefits high growth areas. Within the narrative, please explain if the proposed project improves or provides access to new residential developments, retail stores, other land uses, or if the proposed project alleviates future congestion due to potential economic development activity such as expansion of warehouses or other freight generators.

The area of Barker Cypress Rd. between Queens Blvd. and US 290 in Cypress has been a high growth area for a while with new growth in residential and commercial land use. Due to this high growth over the years, the increase in traffic and congestion has become a challenge for Barker Cypress Rd. This project will address safety and congestion issues by widening a segment of Barker Cypress from Queenston Blvd to north of US 290 from a four-lane roadway to a six-lane roadway and closing cross overs at South Dr. for safety purposes due to queueing from US 290. HGAC’s Harris County Intersection Safety Assessment (June 2022) shows that Barker Cypress is over capacity with bi-directional traffic volumes exceeding 52,000 vehicles per day (VPD) within the bridge segment south of US 290. These numbers do not include the increased demand due to Houston Methodist Cypress Hospital System hospital complex at Highway 290 and Barker Cypress. The new hospital will include 400 beds, multiple medical office buildings, and will employ more than 500 people. An increased workforce will create more congestion on an already high-volume Barker Cypress Rd. particularly at the bridge crossing at US 290. The Methodist Hospital Cypress System is a 106-acre property located off Hwy. 290 between Barker Cypress and Skinner Roads and is due to open in the first quarter of 2025. As of 2018, the H-GAC Regional Growth Summary Map shows the census tract areas of Barker Cypress Rd. at Queenston Blvd. and US 290, between the years 2018 and 2025 of the proposed project area, has an anticipated growth of 13,162 in household population, an increase of 4,539 households, and 1,575 of growth in jobs. Besides the project areas directly related to the project proposed, growth is happening overall in the Cypress area increasing traffic volumes on local roadways. Along the stretch of Barker Cypress Rd. proposed for the project there is a lack of mobility and accessibility which contributes to the congestion occurring along this roadway. HGAC made several recommendations in the Harris County Intersection Safety Assessment in June of 2022 to mitigate congestion along this area of the thoroughfare. The proposed project has incorporated many of those recommendations such as intersection improvements for pedestrians, adding sidewalks, traffic signal improvements, adding a through lane, and closing a crossover. Barker Cypress Rd. has a large amount of commercial land use with retail establishments, adding sidewalks and creating a pedestrian friendly and safe environment will encourage more walking and biking to these establishments. The Cypress Park and Ride facility is located next to the new Houston Methodist Cypress System which draws local traffic over the US 290 bridge. Making the recommended changes will reduce traffic congestion and increase safety on Barker Cypress Rd. to hopefully encourage more transit use (increased ridership) into the City of Houston.

3. Please provide a narrative explaining how the proposed project improves walking and biking conditions. Within the narrative, please explain if the proposed project scope includes construction of a new or improved existing bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure on a project facility or in the vicinity of the project.

The project is a multimodal connector that allows for walking/biking/ADA access for pedestrians to safely connect within an area that is located on the County's high-injury network. Prime objectives for this project are to provide accessibility to nearby residents along a major thoroughfare, to provide safety improvements that provide pedestrian facilities along a major corridor that are separated from vehicular traffic. To achieve this goal, the project proposes to implement a series of pedestrian and improvements along the corridor, including the construction of new sidewalks and crosswalks. The project scope includes providing pedestrian access to anchor retail tenants from the nearby residential subdivisions and nearby multifamily complexes. The project also proposes to install new marked crosswalks at key intersections, providing safe crossing points for pedestrians, and improved pedestrian signals for safety and accessibility for pedestrians. The proposed project also includes the implementation of traffic calming measures along the corridor to reduce vehicle speeds and improve safety for pedestrians. This is important because the project corridor is the main access for an elementary school. To ensure that the proposed improvements are accessible to all users, the project includes the assessment and rehabilitation of ADA-compliant curb ramps and crosswalks, providing safe and accessible routes for pedestrians with disabilities. As a best practice, Harris County has been installing ADA curb ramps and crosswalks at every signalized intersection for the last 25 years, even if there was no existing sidewalk to connect at the time of signal construction. By improving the safety and comfort of pedestrians and cyclists, the project can help promote active transportation and support the County's goal of creating more walkable and bikeable communities. Overall, the proposed project will improve pedestrian conditions along the corridor, providing safe and accessible routes for pedestrians and bicyclists, improving connectivity, and enhancing overall safety and comfort for all users of the roadway.

4. Please provide a narrative explaining how the proposed project improves traffic conditions for transit services (local, express, signature, or commuter).

This project will improve traffic conditions to transit services through several improvements to Barker Cypress Rd. Project improvements include the widening of Barker Cypress from Queenston Blvd. over US 290 from a four-lane to a six-lane roadway, and traffic signal improvements to alleviate congestion and traffic delays. This will improve the traffic flow over US 290 from the south side of Barker Cypress Rd. to the north side where the Park and Ride Cypress is located. With this improved ease of movement by residents, commuter transit should be made easier to access and use. Traffic bottlenecks and spillbacks should be alleviated by the scope improvements at Queenston and South Dr. allowing for better traffic flow.

5. Please provide a narrative explaining how the proposed project will reduce inoperability for significant periods due to infrastructure damaged by a collision with vehicles such as trucks, ships, and barges.

According to the HGAC Intersection Safety Assessment (June 2022), Barker Cypress, between = Dundee Rd. and Queenston Blvd. (.91 length segment) had an ADT at peak hour of 38,147 and a MVM of 34,714 . Barker Cypress is inoperable due to issues with traffic flow in areas such as the crossing of South Dr. and other areas where crossings are interfering with traffic flows around US 290. This project aims to close these crossings to make infrastructure improvements to improve traffic flow and reduce queueing resulting from the increased traffic volumes on both sides of US 290 on Barker Cypress. The construction of these intersection improvements includes the implementation of Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) technologies, which will enhance the operational efficiency and safety of the roadways and freight system. These technologies will provide things such as yellow traffic light timing/signal coordination allowing for mitigation of congestion and delays. In addition, this project will reduce inoperability due to infrastructure damage by a collision on the roadway. Utilizing technology allows for more calculated prevent and reaction in the event of infrastructure damage. By implementing ITS and expanding the current network, it will allow Harris County to be better informed and make safer and more coordinated use of Barker Cypress Rd. This includes improvements to the traffic signals and the installation of CCTVs. Through ITS Harris County will have the opportunity to implement technology to explore things such as emergency vehicle notification systems and variable speed limits.

6. Please provide a narrative explaining how the proposed project will improve state of good repair and extend the service life of the project facility.

Per the County's County Transportation Plan, all roads, street drainage, sidewalk and/or hike/bike trail system are to be measured on a nationally recognized and locally adopted criteria. The intent is for the Pavement Condition Index (PCI) to be the critical factor for management, maintenance, project, and budget decisions for linear infrastructure improvements. Measured on a scale of 0 to 100, any score 71 or above is considered Satisfactory or Good - thus earning the moniker "B or Better Program". In addition to the Pavement Condition Index, for all county-maintained roads, Harris County tracks the Level of Service as an index. This project area currently has a good pavement condition index score but still has a breakdown of traffic flow with room to improve the level of service on the roadway. To address this issue, the proposed project will involve the reconstruction of the four-lane roadway to a six-lane roadway to improve its capacity and flow of traffic. In turn the project will have an enhanced safety and efficiency for the corridor for all users. Reconstruction will also include the replacement of aging infrastructure such as traffic signals and drainage systems, which will improve resiliency and extend the service life of the project facility up to an additional 30 years. It is critical to consider community institutions such as schools and hospitals when accessing the state of good repair for the project corridor. For example, the the upcoming facility of the new Methodist Cypress Hospital System that will serve the community with medical and health services, will bring added traffic and congestion to Barker Cypress. These types of community institutions must have special considerations when planning projects. Transportation congestion and state of good repair around hospitals affect the health and safety of patients, staff, and visitors. Congestion can cause delays in accessing emergency care, in the transportation of patients, and in delivering supplies. It can cause stress to hospital visitors due to increased pollution and noise. Both congestion and state of good repair can have negative impacts on the quality and efficiency of health care services, as well as the well-being of the community.

Planning Factors Criteria

1. What is the existing fatality crash rate at the project location? Regional crash data is available online on the crash data viewer. H-GAC staff will provide assistance in calculating the crash rates upon request.

Existing Fatality Crash Rate for Barker Cypress Rd : 6.021

2. What is the existing serious injury crash rate at the project location? Regional crash data is available online on the crash data viewer. H-GAC staff will provide assistance in calculating the crash rates upon request.

Existing Serious Injury Crash Rate for Barker Cypress Rd : 4.014

3. Please provide a narrative explaining how the proposed project reduces expected fatality and serious injury crashes. Narrative must include specific improvements (work types) included in the project scope. Crash reduction factors associated with specific work types can be found in the safety benefits calculation template. H-GAC staff can provide assistance in gathering the crash reduction factors upon request.

In 2022 qualitative estimates and reports were done through Intersection Safety Assessments (ISAs) following Road Safety Audit Procedures per the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). Houston Galveston Area Council staff worked with Harris County to identify four locations to evaluate for this study, one of those locations was Barker Cypress. The purpose of these assessments was to identify potential road safety issues and opportunities for improvements in safety for all road users. ISAs were conducted along Barker Cypress Rd at 290 with the study segment being about .91 miles in length. Besides characteristics of the intersections being studied so was the crash history. Barker Cypress Rd at 290 had one person killed, 7 persons incapacitated, 15 non-incapacitated, 41 possibly injured, 524 with no injuries, and two unknow in the crash data. With a total reported 590 crashes and a crash cost of $23,278,500.00 and a cost per crash at $39,455.00. Study Observations revealed that there were 29 disregarded signal crashes that could be improved with the installation of backplates with retroreflective borders. One pedestrian crash occurred due to missing sidewalks which could be improved with the installation of pedestrian push buttons, high visibility pedestrian crosswalks, and the installation of sidewalks. There are missing and/or damaged object markers that can be improved with maintenance done to add reflective object markers on bridge barrier. The corridor is over capacity (previously studied) and recommended to be widened, therefore a through lane should be added. Recommendations for improvements that were generated by the Intersection Safety Assessment Team based on field observations and intersection characteristics. Recommendation one is a mid-term improvement recommendation to widen Barker Cypress to a six-lane divided roadway from a four-lane roadway from south Queenston Boulevard to north of US 290 WBFR. In fact, HNTB, on behalf of Harris County developed a schematic for the purpose of a Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) application for the 2022 call for projects. Another study produced by Stevens Technical Services; Inc. examined several alternative traffic operations for Barker Cypress looking at several measures of effectiveness. When it came to determining between three final scenarios as to which one the best, the six-lane expansion alternative was the recommendation. The current project includes: • Widening Barker Cypress from four to six-lanes • Converting a four-lane asphalt section of road with open ditch drainage to a six-lane concrete urban section of road with curb and gutter. • Added sidewalks. • Reconstruction of bridge over the railroad. • Intersection improvements along Barker Cypress Road at Queenston Boulevard at US 290 eastbound and westbound frontage roads. • Reductions Due to Improvements: • Reduce congestion. • Increase safety in the area. • Improve pedestrian accommodations. • Improve drainage due to modernizing the roadway to include curbs and gutters. • Reduce vehicular emissions attributable to sever traffic congestion. • Decrease the travel delays for the Barker Cypress Corridor. Following the recommended ISAs improvements for Barker Cypress at 290 would create a Safety Benefit Crash Cost Savings of $6,401,588 and a CRF of 15%:

Resiliency

1. Please select the vulnerability to flooding score at the project location based on the Regional Resiliency tool. H-GAC staff can provide assistance with the regional resiliency tool upon request.

Low

2. Please select the criticality score at the project location based on the Regional Resiliency tool. H-GAC staff can provide assistance with the regional resiliency tool up on request.

Low

3. Please provide a narrative explaining how the proposed project reduces vulnerability to flooding. The narrative must include specific improvements such as drainage improvements that are included in the scope.

Harris County Engineering department has extensive experience in developing and maintaining complete streets and roadway projects with resiliency measures. With a history of flooding events, Harris County has stormwater management practices and incorporates other climate resilience measures to help improve the built and/or natural environment while enhancing resilience. In this proposed project, Harris County as the project sponsor, has included improvements to reduce vulnerabilities to flooding. Drainage improvements will be designed to meet or exceed Harris County's stormwater design criteria, which are based on the latest federal standards and regulations for stormwater management - first adopted by Harris County Flood Control and the Office of County Engineer in 2011 (Harris County Low Impact Development & Green Infrastructure Design Criteria for Storm Water Management). The improved drainage infrastructure will reduce the risk of roadway flooding during intense rainfall events and enhance the roadway's resilience to future climate change impacts. Overall, improved drainage will occur due to the modernizing of the roadway. The proposed project has the commitment of the county to reduce the local and regional vulnerability to flooding along the project corridor and improve the roadway's safety and accessibility during and after storm events. The incorporation of climate resiliency measures in the project design will ensure that the project is sustainable in the long-term and can adapt to future changes in climate and rainfall patterns.

Access/Connectivity

Please enter the household population located within a quarter mile buffer of the project location: 1a. Low-Income

1,196 (weighted low and moderate income persons (2015), ACE

1b. Hispanic and Non-Hispanic Minorities

2,777 Hispanic Minorities (2021) ACE

2. Does the proposed project improve or provide new connectivity to a medical facility within a quarter mile buffer of the project location?

3. Does the proposed project improve or provide new connectivity to a school/college/university within a quarter mile buffer of the project location?

Yes

4. Does the proposed project improve or provide new connectivity to a social services facility within a quarter buffer of the project location?

Environmental Justice

Please enter household population located within quarter mile buffer of the project location. H-GAC staff can assist in gathering the data. 1a. Low-Income

1,196 (weighted low and moderate income persons (2015), ACE

1b. Hispanic and Non-Hispanic Minorities

2,777 Hispanic Minorities (2021) ACE

1c. Household Population Under Poverty

482 (2021) ACE

1d. Disabled Persons

318 (2021) ACE

1e. Elderly Persons

167 (2021) ACE

1f. Limited English Proficiency

295 (2021) ACE

2. What is the average Livable Center Need Index within quarter mile buffer of the project location? H-GAC staff can assist in gathering the data.

8.4, ACE

3. Please provide a narrative explaining how the proposed project provides benefits to vulnerable populations. Benefits include safety improvements, construction of or improvements to ped/bike facilities, or improvements to transit stops.

The proposed project will provide access management which will create accessibility and connectivity to nearby residents. Recommendations is for increased mobility and expanded connectivity for all road users, including people in surrounding underserved communities. This project will create roadways that will convert open ditches to curb and gutter drainage with sidewalks for increased safety for pedestrians and bicyclist. Improvements to pedestrian crosswalks will benefit vulnerable populations such as pedestrians with disabilities, older adults, and children by providing safer and more accessible routes for them to navigate the corridor. Sidewalk improvements can have a significant impact on the quality of life for vulnerable populations. According to a study conducted by Smart Growth America, neighborhoods with better sidewalks and more walkable environments can have a positive economic impact on residents, particularly those in underserved communities. In fact, increasing walkability in a neighborhood can increase property values by up to 15%, which can help to create more stable and resilient real estate markets. Additionally, sidewalks can also improve public health outcomes by encouraging physical activity and reducing the risk of chronic diseases. Through the Built Environment Program Public Health Department, Harris County promotes health and equity through community planning and healthy community design, inclusive of infrastructure like sidewalks, public transportation, among other man-made spaces and structures. Since 2015, the program has actively been contributing to build capacity, local knowledge and supporting opportunities that promotes health equity. The inclusion of safe and accessible sidewalks can also have a tangible impact on the daily lives of residents. According to the USDOT Equitable Transportation Community Explorer (ETC), about 3.30% of households have no personal vehicle. Residents should have a safe means of mobility through walking or biking to reach health care, shopping, recreational needs, and other essentials. Suggested improvements made by consultants and HGAC to Harris County to improve the roadway by installing sidewalks, installing pedestrian push buttons (APS), and installing high visibility pedestrian crosswalks will improve safety for pedestrians and bicyclists in the community. Also, improving traffic operations by reducing congestions and delays due to the current high traffic volumes and the proposed increase in traffic volumes due to the planned medical facilities, will also improve conditions for those residents trying to move about the area whether walking, biking, or in a vehicle. By improving access and connectivity for vulnerable populations through sidewalk improvements and other infrastructure upgrades, the proposed project can help to promote economic development and improve quality of life for residents in underserved communities. These improvements can create more opportunities for residents to access education and the job opportunities, which can help to promote economic mobility and reduce income inequality.

4. Please provide a narrative explaining how the proposed project avoids or mitigates adverse effects to vulnerable populations. A list of adverse effects was provided in detailed criteria document.

To mitigate or avoid adverse effects to vulnerable populations, as the project sponsor the County will ensure that the needs and concerns of the communities are elevated and communicated to departments and divisions tasked with performing the design and construction work. A community-centered approach will aid in envisioning solutions which mitigate barriers, meaningfully redresses inequities, and benefit economically disadvantaged communities. Harris County will utilize a diverse group of stakeholders in the development of the planning project. A representative Community Advisory Group will be created to oversee community-developed priorities and initiatives. This project will include grassroots and local community leaders, homeowner associations, advocacy groups for persons with disabilities, organizations advocating for equitable transportation networks, environmental and conservation groups, organizations representing persons with mental illness, and local and regional public agencies. Through established partnership, the County will conduct meaningful engagement with the broader community as well as representatives of community groups through public meetings, workshops, and online surveys. The study will include active community engagement utilizing multi-lingual and accessible materials. The planning project will be guided by a Project Review Team consisting of major stakeholders. This overall strategy ensures that public stakeholders and vulnerable community members are integral to identifying potential impacts and developing mitigation strategies. To address concerns about displacement of vulnerable populations, the proposed project would be aligned with the Harris County's Non-Housing Green Design Standards (NHGDS), and be shaped by a set of overarching, fundamental concepts that are the foundation behind Harris County's Imagination Zones. Compatibility with surrounding neighborhoods is a key concept that promotes the integration of new development with the existing community, preserving the neighborhood's character while enhancing the built environment. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion is a fundamental concept that emphasizes the importance of providing equal opportunities for all members of the community. The proposed project seeks to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion by providing affordable housing and job opportunities for all residents, regardless of their race, ethnicity, or socio-economic status. Health and Wellbeing is a key concept that focuses on promoting physical and mental health among residents. The proposed project seeks to promote health and wellbeing by providing access to green spaces, recreational facilities, and pedestrian-friendly streets that encourage physical activity and healthy living. Fiscal Responsibility and Economic Development is a concept that emphasizes the importance of responsible budgeting and financial planning, while promoting economic growth and development. The proposed project seeks to promote fiscal responsibility and economic development by creating new jobs, attracting new businesses, and increasing property values. In addition to aligning with the Imagination Zone guidelines, the proposed project foresees comprehensive coordination with local authorities and agencies to minimize impacts to regional critical facilities, such as elementary schools, junior colleges, and trade schools within the 1/4-mile buffer of the project corridor. Measures to mitigate increased traffic congestion, isolation, exclusion, or separation can be considered during the design phase to ensure that the project benefits all members of the community, regardless of their mode of transportation. By prioritizing community engagement, leveraging existing guidelines and standards, and working closely with local authorities and agencies, the County is committed to delivering a project that benefits all members of the community and promotes a more sustainable and resilient future.

Impacts on Natural and Cultural Resources

1. Please provide a narrative explaining how the proposed project avoids or mitigates impacts to natural (flood plains, wetlands) and cultural (historic and archeological sites) resources. H-GAC staff can provide assistance in identifying natural and cultural resources located within a quarter mile buffer of the project location.

The county is currently developing a Resiliency Plan to improve the resiliency of communities and infrastructure in the county. In addition, the county’s Vision Zero Action plan has committed to planning efforts (Complete Streets and multimodal thoroughfare planning) which will incorporate roadway safety considerations downstream of flood risk to people and properties; incorporating principles of sustainable urban development, mixed-use development patterns connected by multimodal transportation options to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. To avoid or mitigate impacts to natural resources, the proposed project will comply with all federal, state, and local regulations related to wetlands and flood plains. Harris County will implement best management practices to minimize potential impacts on these resources. In addition, the project will incorporate sustainable design practices such as green infrastructure and low impact development to minimize the project's impact on natural resources. To address potential impacts to cultural resources, Harris County will coordinate the assessment and any necessary mitigation measures will be identified and implemented as part of the project design and construction process. The county will also follow all applicable federal and state regulations related to the protection of cultural resources. By adhering to these guidelines, Harris County aims to deliver a project that will provide significant benefits to the community while avoiding or mitigating potential adverse effects to natural and cultural resources.

2. Please provide Nitrogen Oxides (NOx) and Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) reductions provided by the project. H-GAC staff can provide assistance in calculating NOx and VOC reductions.
(Optional)

NOx reduction is .31 tons and VOC reduction is .92 tons

Innovation

1. Does the project propose to implement new infrastructure technologies to enhance accessibility, mobility, multimodalism, resiliency, reliability, or traffic operations?

Yes

1a. If yes, please explain.

The proposed project aims to implement new infrastructure technologies to enhance accessibility, mobility, multimodal, resiliency, reliability, and traffic operations. The project scope is slated to incorporate Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) to manage traffic flow and improve safety for all users, including motorists, pedestrians, and bicyclists. The project will also utilize the latest technologies for transit signal priority. Additionally, the project will feature complete streets design elements to enhance accessibility for all users, including those with disabilities, and promote walking and biking as viable transportation options. The project will also utilize green infrastructure solutions to increase resiliency and promote sustainable development. Through these measures, the proposed project seeks to improve transportation accessibility, mobility, and resiliency while enhancing traffic operations and reliability.

2. Does the project propose to implement new autonomous/connected vehicle technology?

Yes

2a. If yes, please explain.

The project will also utilize the latest technologies for transit signal priority such as using the advance traffic management system for traffic signals which have the capability to communicate with autonomous connect vehicles. Therefore, there could be the capability to communicate with autonomous vehicles as Harris County is moving towards fitting all signal priorities to using the Advanced Traffic Managment System.