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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes 2000DRAFT NOT APPROVED City of Evanston MINUTES PARKING COMMITTEE WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 26, 2000 EVANSTON CIVIC CENTER, ROOM 2403 Members Present: Alderman Steven Bernstein, Alderman Arthur Newman, Alderman Melissa Wynne, George Woolridge, John Hammerschlag, Jonathan Perman Staff Present: David Jennings, Jean Baucom, and Jacquelyn Johnson Others Present: George Lambrechts, Richard Martin, Suzanne Carlson, Tom White, Rick Steinberg, Rick Braunstein, Sharon Feigon Alderman Newman declared a quorum and opened the meeting at 6:07 pm. He asked if there were any minutes to be approved. There were none. Alderman Newman then turned the floor over the public for comments. George Lambrechts brought his concerns for the vehicle speed on 800 block of Lincoln Street as well handicapped parking denied to a neighbor on Lincoln Street. He felt that the city was not doing enough to meet the resident's needs. David Jennings addressed the denial of the handicapped parking space. Handicapped spaces are normally placed in the front of the resident's home if there is no access from a driveway or garage. This particular resident's home is in a No Parking Zone (NPZ). The resident was offered a space around the corner on Sherman (the closest space available). Mr. Jennings did offer that at any time the NPZ is removed a space would be given to them. Per Alderman Newman's request, Mr. Jennings will provide information on changing the parking configuration on Lincoln Street to address the need for additional parking as well as the speed of the vehicular traffic. He will review the possibility of a two-sided parking trial and how it will impact the Water Department since many of their large vehicles us the street. There will also be an increase in the enforcement of the 2-hour parking zone and a review of the possibility of moving the current parking from the south side of the street back to the north side. Parking Committee Meeting Minutes — .January 26, 2000 Page 2 of 5 NEW BUSINESS Uodate on District R — Sheridan Road (Interim Parkins Plan) The committee accepted Jean Baucom's recommendation to sell Residential District R parking permits to the employees of the downtotivn area. The sale of the permits has not been as high as anticipated and the sale would help alleviate the parking shortage in both of the sold out city garages. Secondly, the committee also accepted the recommendation to reduce the size of District R along Sheridan Road where the district is not being used and replace the 3-hour time limit. If the demand for additional District R increases the signs would be reinstalled to accommodate the need. Sharon Feigon stated that with such a parking shortage in the downtown area the City should be working in conjunction with the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) to make public transportation more appealing. Ms. Feigon introduced several options such as rental car availability, special fare pricing, and bike racks. Alderman Newman felt this was good idea, but currently the City staff is overwhelmed with many major projects. Possibly the Chamber of Commerce should address this or this may be something the small businesses should be looking into. It was also agreed that the Interim Parking Plan is that for the duration of the construction of the Church Street Plaza garages as well as the possible construction of the Klutznik project. Adequate parking would be available once construction has been completed. Uodate on the Church Street Plaza Garaqe Construction is on schedule and the anticipated opening date is still November of 2000. One of the major concerns is that the City must designate a management firm for the garage even before construction is completed. The assistance of the chosen firm is needed to determine basic functioning of the garage which in turn will impact the kind of equipment that will be used, as well as other issues that will need to be answered during construction. Parking Committee Meeting Minutes - January 26, 2000 Page 3 of 5 Update on the Church Street Plaza Garage contd. Mr. Jennings will review the contractual agreement with Central Parking System, the current firm managing the Sherman and Church Street garages, to determine if they must be used or another firm may be brought in. Update on Sherman Plaza Garage Negotiations are still underway for the site. The date for the start of construction has been pushed back to June of 2000. General discussion centered on the safe flow of pedestrian traffic coming out from the transportation center to the garage. Status of valet parking in the Research Park Service provided by System Parking will begin on Monday, January 31, 2000, and run between the hours of 6:30 am and 6:30 pm. A meeting was scheduled for January 26" between the City, System Parking and the current tenants of the Research Park to review the planned operations. After a few weeks of operations the staffing will be reviewed and modifications made if need be. Lease renewals for various lots (YMCA, Lot 25 - Postal Service vehicles. Lot 15 - GoodsNoque area The Committee agreed to renew the leases for the YMCA lot and Lot 15. Staff proposed the removing of Lot 25 and giving the space to the United States Postal Service (USPS). Currently the USPS has the majority of the space east of Lot 25 and needs the additional space for their vehicles that are currently being stack parked. Removing the western most eight spaces would eliminate the problems with the blocking of access by the car repair shop. The current parkers in Lot 25 have voiced a strong opposition to the removal of the parking, but staff still feels that this move would benefit the City and the USPS. The Committee agreed to have this matter introduced to the Administration and Public Works (A&PW) Committee for discussion and approval. Parking Committee Meeting Minutes -- January 26, 2000 Page 4 of 5 Future Darkino survevs/studies (Orrinaton between Emerson and Colfax; Weslev north of Church: Evanston Hospital areal Currently a survey is being conducted for Alderman Drummer, on Wesley north of Church Street. A series of studies are bung done for the Evanston Hospital area parking. The suggestion of making one side of the street open parking and the other side a Rosident Only Parking District is being reviewed. A survey and letter will be sent to the surrounding residents explaining the proposal. Update on university Darkina reauirements Staff is behind on this project, but are in the process of surveying ten universities on their parking requirements. Mr. Jennings has found the American Public Works Association as a valuable resource. He hopes to have information to report for a future Parking Committee meeting. Chamber of Commerce Concerns for Downtown Parkinq Jonathan Perman discussed that the Chamber had received several calls in the past two weeks complaining of the unavailability of parking in the City garages. The callers are complaining that they are coming to shop and the garages are full early in the morning. Mr. Perman arrived to the meeting late so Ms. Baucom reiterated the earlier discussion of selling District R to the employees in the downtown area to help move them from the garage to the street, thus opening up parking. Staff also introduced the idea of removing the time limit for the parking on Sheridan Road between Church and Davis. The feeling was that even in cold weather employees would be willing to walk the three blocks for free parking. The idea of putting valet parking in the basement of the Sherman Avenue Garage was introduced and would create more space by stack parking the cars. Staff will review this idea and verify the feasibility for immediate implementation. Parking Committee Meeting Minutes — January 26, 2000 Page 5 of 5 ADJOURNMENT Hearing no other business, Alderman Newman adjourned the meeting at 8:15 pm. NEXT MEETING The next Parking Committee meeting is for Wednesday, February 23, 2000. Jacquelyn R. Johnson, Executive Secretary Engineering and Transportation Services DRAFT — NOT APPROVED The Parking Committee A Sub-Comrnidee of the City Council of Evanston, Illinois Minutes from the Committee Meeting Of February 24, 2000 Alderman Newman called the meeting to order at 6:15 p.m. Members Present: Alderman Newman, Alderman Bernstein, and Alderman Wynne (left the meeting at 7:50 p.m.), John Hammerschlag and Paul Giddings (left at 9:00 p.m ) Members Absent: Jonathan Perman and George Woolridge Associate Member: David Reynolds Staff Present: Jennings, Baucom, Aiello, Rubin Gaynor Visitors Present: Rick Braunstein, Tom White, Tony Kelly, Chic Curley, Cease Giddings, Laura Saviano, and Jerry Hausman Minutes from Meetine of January 20. 2000 Copies of the minutes were distributed. Since there had not been time to review the minutes prior to the meeting, a motion to accept the meetings will be held until next regularly scheduled meeting. Public Art & the New Maole Ave. Garace Chic Curley presented a slide presentation of various types of public art in Evanston and other cities. Discussion followed the presentation by members of the committee for public art with the members of the Parking Committee. The Public Art Committee views the exterior eastern wall of the new garage as a major opportunity for developing art as a visual experience for people coming into the entertainment center area. The Parking Committee pointed out its desire and intent to keep the garage as open as possible to make users feel more comfortable and that the elevator lobbies present one of the best opportunities for art since people must go to them. John Hammerschlag cited garages at Van Buren & Federal, Wabash & Randolph, 201 Madison, Lake & Wells which have successfully utilized colored tiles and other art to develop themes to enhance the elevator lobbies. Chic Curley requested renderings of the interior so that their committee could review possibilities for using art inside the garage. Discussion continued about the small areas within the c3evator lobbies due to stainless steel doors and glass walls, open spans within the garage the need to clearly mark floors so that people can orient themselves to the location of their cars within the garage, possible use of glass cases inside the garage for art, development of first-class graphics rather than "just" signs, blending exterior design with interior design to create a connection between the two. Tom White from the Arthur Hill Company advised they have a consulting looking at various options on theme possibilities. John Hammerschlag commented that the consultant is known for his high quality wort:. Discussion focused on the amount of money available. City ordinances allow up to 1% of the cowruction cost be used for public art. Judith Aiello and Tom White advised that the Arthur Hill Co. plans to contribute $50,000 toward art and there is a potential savings by eliminating some banners and making a few other changes in the grille work on the upper le%rl fascadc. Jerry Hausman asked that the Parking Committee look at the building as a whole, both interior and exterior, and asked the Parking Committee approve funds for development of public art as soon as possible. Alderman Bernstein pointed out that the garage has both function and form, and that it has been the Parking Committee's desire to have the garage focus on being inviting and memorable. He pointed out that costs must also be taken into consideration and that there are physical constraints for construction as well as physical constraints due to function. Tony Kelly advised they will be putting out a proposal to design public art for this facility and they need to give information regarding the amount of money that will be available. He encouraged the Parking Committee to make a commitment as soon as possible because they (Public Art Committee) are already behind in putting out a proposal due to the current stage of construction of this garage. When questioned as to where the Arthur Hill Co. had envisioned their money being spent, Tom White indicated on the exterior of the building. It was agreed that the interior is important and should be addressed under the theme program; however, the graphics budget uill not cover theme design. Max Rubin, the City's construction manager, asked both committees to bear in mind that with a November 1 opening target date, it is important that some decisions be made as soon as possible regarding the type of installation and/or hanging methods will be required in whatever public art is planned: surface mount vs. inset; tiles vs. paint, etc. so that steps can be taken as they are building to prepare for the future installations. He advised the committees that artists often underestimate how much time installations will take as evidenced by the artworks installed in the Library, and pointed out that construction of the building cannot be held if the target date is to be met. Cease Giddings said that the members of the Public Arts Committee would appreciate being able to ascertain the budget figure as soon as possible because they cannot put out a call until a dollar figure is available. 3 Alderman Newman asked John Hanunerscblrig his opinion on whether to put tut on the exterior or interior. Mr. Hammerschlag said he believes the elevator lobbies should be first class, including the floors, lights, heating units, etc. He pointed out that the architecture for the building has already been planned, and it is the elevator lobbies %vh= people spend the most time. Alderman Wynne asked, "How do we make ire we get both? High class lobbies and art on the exterior?" Discussion followed regarding the desire to have pleasurable and safe lobbies, use of music, need to put in conduit fior sound now even if we don't use music at this time so that we don't end up with surface mounted conduit, budgets for developing a really nice Iobby will be in the $10,000-15,000 range per floor, electricians are asking now about conduit so that it can be buried, opportunity to put more glass in elevator lobbies, changes in the overall exterior design must be approved by the Site Plan Review committee before changes can be made. Alderman Newman suggested a sub -committee of the Parking Committee meet prior to next week's EDC meeting and asked Judy Aiello to provide information on dollars available for art. Ms. Aiello pointed out that Tom White v,711 be meeting with his designer regarding themes. Discussion refocused on adding glass in the lobbies, suggesting uses of etched glass or pigmented glass that is transparent and can be etched in order to provide open views for users. The consensus of the Parking Committee was to add more glass, if possible. Alderman Newman again called on John Hammerschlag for his opinion, and Mr. Hammesschlag advised that people do enjoy the nice lobbies, but the thing they really want to know is the floor number. Paul Giddings recounted that there is a need to know the total cost for the project, the costs for the lobbies, and the remaining dollars for art. Alderman Newman stated that the request is for 1%, and asked Judy Aiello to come back with financial information. The question was posed as to whether public art rnoney can be used to develop the lobbies and whether public art should be placed on the exterior or interior. 1t was agreed that the sub -committee would n•.eet at 67h1 on March 8'h and recommendations would go to Council on !March ITT. Anyone wishing to participate from the Parking Committee could do so. Tom White will be meeting with his contractor on Thursday, February 24`s, and he will discuss changing the wall to glass. Tony Kelly commented that the Public Art Committee is in the same predicament as Max Rubin (regarding schedules to meet opening target date), and expressed his hope that they would be able to issue a call for proposals immediately after the Council meeting on the 131s. Removal of Grilles from unner level exterior of Manle Garacc: The request was put before the Committee to approval removal of the architectural grilles that had been planned for the upper levels of the new garage. City building codes do not require these or anything else to be placed in the opening above the crash wall. There is a good cost savings by eliminating them. After discussion of what the grilles would have looked like versus the area being open, the Committee agreed to the removal of these grilles from the plan. 4 Security Cameras David Jennings and Max Rubin presensed the security program that had been specified in the construction bid and expressed the desire to have additional equipment throughout the building and to upgrade the %ideo recording system from a basic disc to a digital disc which can store a full year on one disc. Discussion followed about where cameras should be located, the staffing levels required to monitor such equipment, the liability exposure by i=alling and by not installing equipment, desire to have cameras along the East Railroad side of the building and in each elevator cab as well as at the pay -on -foot stations and all entrance and exit lanes, and how the monitors would operate. It was explained that emergency response stations are planned on each floor at the stairway entrances and throughout the parking t7oor. If an emergency button is pushed, the pan and tilt camera would automatically fi-cus on the call area. John Hammerschlag advised that it is next to impossible to monitor an entire garage with cameras and recommended that the City not attempt to do this. He stated that the most important security need is to place emergency call stations in stair%vcM and in 4-5 places with the garage floor so that people can get to them- The Committee agreed that the most strategic places to locate cameras should be in elevator cabs, elevator lobbies, and one per lane plus the west side of the building. Revenue Control Eauinment John Hammerschlag led the discussion of the revenue control equipment that should be purchased for this garage. He pointed out that there really is no one system currently in operation to provide for all of the types of parking planned for this garage: Self -park system 2 types of valet parking (valet parks and removes vehicle or valet parks and driver picks up his own vehicle) rurther, payment methods will include monthly permits, hourly parkers at cashiers, and hourly parkcrs at pay -on -foot stations. W. Hammerschlag contrasted some of the strengths and weaknesses of equipment provided by ZeAG and McGann (Amano), and stated that the City should get vendors to propose systems that will marry all of the various operational components rather than the City or Walker trying to develop specifications. The committee agreed with Mr. Hammerschlag and asked him to contact vendors. Mr. Hammerschlag also reiterated his previous recommendation that the City work on getting an operations contractor for this facility, on board as soon as possible and recommended that the contract be based on a cost plus basis for budgeting with a buih-in 90 cancellation clause if the City is not happy with the contractor. David Jennings advised that Jean Baucom had reviewed the contract with CPS Parking, and there is nothing in the contract which requires the City to use them for operation of the new garage. Discussion followed about CPS having volunteered to assist the City in development of the new garage without any charge for this assistance, the timing of the existing contracts and maintaining smooth operations. Jean Baucom will talk with CPS about working with the City on review of equipment and operational issues. Hourly Parking Rates for Sherman Ave. and Church St. Self Park gw,= David Jennings asked the Committee to review the parking rates for the hr,,, eying parking garages due to the recent increase in the Parking Tax. In early year, the Pari.-ir4., System had absorbed the Parking Tax without passing it along to customer~ When the Parking Tax was increased several years ago and Council decided to no longer split the tact on a 50-50 basis with the Parking System, the Parking Committee had re%1-.tix-+d the hourly parking rates for these garages. After discussion about what the rates ought to be, the Committee decided to recommend the following rates to the City Council for approval at the first meeting in March: 0 — 1 Hour Free 1 -- 2 Hours S 1.25 2 — 3 Hours S2.00 3 — 4 Hours S3.00 4 -- 12 Hours S5.00 12-24 Hours S7.50 Consultant's Parking Studv Around Central StJGreenbav Rd. & Central SL Lincolnwood David Jennings advised that at the budget hearings the City Council had approved a parking study to be performed around two separate locations around Central Street business areas. Discussion followed about what the focus should be. The Committee requested staff to obtain additional information from Aldermen Engelman and Moran on their perceptions of the problems and what they are looking to have addressed in a consultant study. The meeting adjourned at 9:50 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Jean Baucom Parking System Manager DRAFT NOT APPROVED City of Evanston MINUTES PARKING COMMITTEE WEDNESDAY, March 22, 2000 EVANSTON CIVIC CENTER, ROOM 2403 Members Present: Alderman Steven Bernstein, Alderman Arthur Newman, Alderman Melissa Wynne, Jonathan Perman, George Woolridge, Paul Giddings, John Hammerschlag, Staff Present: David Jennings, Jay Larson, Stephen Engleman, and Jacquelyn Johnson Others Present: Tom White, Arne Weingarten Alderman Newman declared a quorum and opened the meeting at 6:10 pm. Alderman Newman then turned the floor over to Tom White and Arne Weingarten to discuss and update the committee on the Church Street Plaza Garage graphics. Arne Weingarten presented drawings of the proposed graphics for the garage. Themes from the arts have been developed for each floor with the graphics being displayed in laminated glass. Different color schemes will also be used on each floor to help with the floor identification. Only the columns on the floor will be painted. The bays will also be labeled using numbers and graphics to continue the theme. Permanent artwork done by local artists will also be used. The first floor will be painted gray. The graphics that are chosen for the elevator lobby will be baked into tile to be used on the wall. The committee agreed that the bay signs need to be made bigger and that street name signs are not needed in the garage. It was also agreed that the combination "ParklExit" sign is confusing and should be re-evaluated. Parking Committee Minutes March 22, 2000 Page 2 of 3 WAY FINDING SIGNAGE Jonathan Perman requested that the signs should indicate parking for theater, shops, and restaurants. The general consensus agreed, but felt the signs should not give the impression the garage parking is limited to the theatres, shops, or restaurants. Currently the proposed blade sign is not an approved sign by the city and a variance would need to be applied for. Also, John Hammerschlag stated that the blade sign needs to be on the entrance to garage not the exit. Plan Commission The committee voted unanimously to add a seat to the committee for a Plan Commission member. Parking Garage Rates Spreadsheets were presented showing the original proposed rate increase with two alternatives and who is parking in the garages. The majority of parkers are the "First Hour Free" parker or all day parker. It was agreed that the increase would be reflected in the 4-12 hour and the 12-24 hour rates. A motion by Paul Giddings to accept the second alternative was seconded by Alderman Melissa Wynne. 6 votes in favor 1 opposed. The motion passed. Central Street/Green Bay Road and west Central Street area A discussion was held to determine the need for a parking study in this area. Alderman Stephen Engleman stated a study was needed to understand the full scope of the parking problem. He would like to see the study encompass a 28-block area, not just the business district. The study would include commuters, homeowners, institutions, and businesses. There is a constant conflict between the commuter and the homeowner having to vie for parking spaces. General discussion brought out that the Evanston Hospital garage would not have an impact on the parking in the area when it is completed. Also, the garage should not be considered part of the proposed study. Paul Giddings made a motion to accept the study. Alderman Steven Bernstein seconded the motion. The motion passed and David Jennings will prepare a Request For Proposal (RFP) for distribution to consultants. Parking Committee Minutes March 22, 2000 Page 3 of 3 First Presbyterian Church Paul Giddings stated that First Presbyterian is building a new garage and wants the city to join in the project. David Jennings told Paul the church would need to send him a letter describing the scope of the project and what participation they wanted from the city. Operator for new Church Street Plaza Garage John Hammerschlag questioned if an operator had been chosen for the new Church Street Plaza Garage. David Jennings said that he did find out that there is no contractual obligation with the current operator, but a new operator had not been selected. ADJOURNMENT Hearing no other business, Alderman Newman adjourned the meeting at 7:45 pm. NEXT MEETING The next Parking Committee meeting is for Wednesday, April 26, 2000. Jacquelyn R. Johnson, Executive Secretary Engineering and Transportation Services Draft — Not Approved The Parking Committee A Sub -Committee of the City Council of Evanston Alinois Minutes from the Committee Meeting Of .Tune 28.2000 Alderman Newman called the meeting to order at 6:10 p.m. Members Present: Alderman Newman, Alderm--n Bernstein, Alderman Wynne Giddings, Hammcrschlag, Cook, Reynolds (.Assoc. Member) and Perman (6:25 p.m.) Members Absent: Woolridge Staff Present: Jennings, Baucom, Rubin Visitors: Tom Whyte (Arthur Hill Co.) Introduction of New Member Ald. Newman introduced Richard Cook to the Committee as a new regular member from the Plan Commission. Mr. Cook introduced himself by saying he is an architect and has been a resident of Evanston for 30+ years. He looks forward in participating on this committee and sharing information between the two committees. Public Art on 1800 Manle Self Park Paul Giddings reported the Public Art Committee h:s received 33 submissions. These were reduced to 15 and then to 5. Of these 5, t;vo -1 c from Evanston artists, two from the Chicagoland area, and one international artist. He said there will be a meeting in late July to review further the proposals from these finalists, and that he will be the person to keep the Parking Committee updated on the selection process. Status of Garage Construction Tom Whyte from the Arthur Hill Co. said that during the recent strike they put emphasis on framing up all that could be framed. This week they have poured concrete all week - They are still targeted for the end of October 22 and to open on schedule November I3*. Currently they arc about one week behind the projected schedule. RFO for Garage Management and Onerations David Jennings outline the high points of the Request for Qualifications. Pages I and 2 provide background information regarding Evanston and the project and identify the purpose of this facility. He said the City is looking for a contractor who can provide valet or who is prepared to contract it out, and who can provide security services or contract those out so that there is one contract and one manager for the garage. He said he "Mts four proposals from the major operators in the area. Discussion followed about the quality of operations needed for this facility; what hours the garage should be open; flexibility in scheduling both days and hours due to the special needs as well as to match hours of restaurants or pubs that are anticipated for the area. David Jennings responded that the current proposal is for 7 days-24 hours per day operations and management. Discussion continued with comments from John HammerschIag, Tom Whyte, Jean Baucom, and David Jennings about the differences in this garage and the operations and purposes of the other two City garages, that this garage is not similar to the others and does not have to be operated just like the others in Evanston. Jon Perman, Alderman Newman, John HammerschIag, and David Jennings also discussed the fact need for Sunday parking to support the area churches, whether there should be fees for church- goers since parking is free on Sundays in the other garages, that the rates in this garage don't have to be the same as the others because this garage provides more security, lighting, etc. than the others. It was noted that generating revenues is more of a weekday - daytime use, because of the free parking for the hotel guests and 4 hours free for theaters, which will primarily at night. Tom Whyte commented that free parking for Sunday shoppers is great for the developer's tenants, but as an Evanston resident, he is concerned about the overall success of the Garage because the City has to pay for the structure. John Hammerschlag commented that the rates should be in round dollars because using the odd amounts is hard on machines and cashiers and requires keeping a lot of coin around. He said it is important to determine the rate structure and that this must be completed by August due to getting information programmed into the equipment and having signs made. The committee talked about various possible rate structures but did not come to any conclusions at this time. However, they did agree that on Sundays the first 5 hours should be free for anyone and then the rates should be 5-12 hours. 12-18 hours, and 18-24 hours for this garage only and that cashiers should be provided 7 days a week. Jon Perman asked Tom Whyte if they were planning on an escort service. Mr. Whyte advised there are 105 panic buttons through out the garage and that the 2 closest cameras will zoom to an area where a panic button is set off. Mr. Whyte also said that Hill will be paying for people to be on all levels to educate parkers when the garage opens. Ald. Newman said he wanted to see this garage and the valet operator be able to react to the needs of movie blockbusters and special events as well as for heavy use periods. David jennings said that the valet operations will be included in the RFQ as an integral function, but the costs for the valet will be paid by the Hill Company instead of the City. He said that the City's goal is to get the RFQ published in the next two weeks. Theater Blade Sign Tom Whyte said the Site Plan Review Committee, the Sign Committee, and City Council will be provided a presentation for the new sign district. Weingart is doing the garage signs. Budget fnr Security Svstems in Gnrugc Max Rubin advised that the costs for the security system arc well over the allo►.•ance in the project budget. He said O'Neil's proposal had one line item at approximately $200,000 and it was going to be necessan• to add another S295.000. ;Another line item was approximately $230,000 and will require another $360.000. The total costs right now are $690,000 plus conduits. John Hammerschlag said he feels O'Neil underbid because they don't listen and simply plug in a formula. He went on to comment that contractors understand concrete but don't understand revenue controls or graphics or a number of other areas. Mr. Rubin said in O'Neill's defense that the security s}•stern design was only completed 2 months ago. The Bid process is that all bidders have the same amount for security and revenue control equipment because the equipment had not been selected at the time everyone bid. He continued by stating that the overall costs for the garage have not gone over budget and that the project is still under the $25 million including scope changes, design changes, adds, and deducts. Tom Whyte added that the contingency was budgeted to care of areas such as these and it has not been touched. He said; however, this cushion will be needed in case of overtime to meet the opening schedule. Hotel Parkin" Agreement- Draft John Hammerschlag began his comments by stating it looks like the City has given the hotel parking for free for 99 years and that the hotel can charge its customers whatever it wants with none of the money going to the City. Aid. Newman defended the exchange of parking and gave an overview of negotiations regarding the 8-year TIF, property tax levels, and hotel taxes expected. Mr. Hammerschlag continued that the agreement is too vague and appears to leave control to the hotel. He said that in future agreements it is important to include how many spaces arc being given and who can use the spaces. For example: employees? Guests? He pointed out that it is hard for an operator to control the garage when some other entity has control over the use of part of the spaces. He also questioned why documents are negotiated differently from committee to committee within the City. He believes the City should give a hand to help a project get started, but should not give the parking away for the life of the building. He said it is fiscally irresponsible to give parking away for 99 years and to allow the lessee to charge whatever they want for parking and the City- gets nothing. Further, he does not believe the attorneys for the City protect the City's best interests. Ald. Newman responded by talking about the higher real estate taxes in Evanston than in Skokie and that getting a hotel to come to Evanston is very imporant and that some decisions have to be made for he long -run development of the City. Aid. Newman asked staff to note changes in the lease contracts in the cover letter which goes to Council. It was also decided that all parking leases must be reviewed by John Hammerschlag as well as the members of the Parking Committee before going to Council. Survev of Evanston David Jennings advised that the consultant performing the survey of opinions about Evanston was receiving generally positive responses with the exceptions of parking in the Central Business District. He commented that these responses certainly justify the costs now being spent to build another garage. Kiutznik Proiect-- Garage Alderman Newman said he wants the Bank (First National Bank and Trust of Evanston) to be invited to the Parking Committee for discussions about the alley. John Hammerschlag advised the Committee that he owns stock in the bank and wanted to disclose this information prior to the bank being invited. Universitv Parkin Zonin Alderman Newman said that Zoning laws allow the whole university to be considered as a lot and that he wants to have this changed so that each building must be considered on its own. David Jennings said that the City is also studying what other common uses exist on NU (i.e. 'office" vs. university). Parkin t=_ in the Main -Chicago Business District Alderman Wynne said that there had been an impact to the businesses at Main & Chicago as a result of the bank lot being closed and parking removed from the street for construction of the new building. She requested that staff do a study of the impact by the next committee meeting, if possible. Thanks to Staff Jon Perman said that he would like to thank Jean Baucom, David Jennings, Max Rubin and Tom Twigg for the parking arrangements made for this years Fountain Square Arts Festival. The meeting was adjourned at 8:00 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Jean Baucom Parking System Manager Draft — Not Approved The Parking Committee A Sub -Committee of the City Council of Evanston, Illinois Minutes from the Committee Meeting Of Februarti. 28.2001 Alderman Wynne called the meeting to order at 6:I2 p.m. Members Present: Alderman Wynne, Giddings, Hamm-erschlag, and Perman Reynolds (Associate Member), Cook (6:20pm) Members Absent: Alderman Newman, Alderman Bernstein, Woolridge Staff Present: Jennings, Baucom, Aiello Visitors: Peter Thomas (Unicorn Cafd), Troy Thiel (Small Business Assn.), Eric Forte, Dean of Students (Kendall College) Report on Short-term Meters on Benson/Clark David Jennings advised that 30 min. meters have been placed on 1700 Benson Ave. in front of the GNC Store and at the SE corner of Clark & Benson on Clark, as the Committee requested. He said the meters are being enforced. Jean Baucom said the only negative she has received came from a member of the Evanston Athletic Club. Discussion followed among members of the parking committee and the audience regarding mixed time limits within blocks, where and why they might be used, and the inherent problems of enforcement and public perception. Citicorn request for short-term meters David Jennings and Judy Aiello advised the City has recently received a request from Citicorp to have short-term meters placed on the north side of Church St., between Benson and Sherman, for their new location. Ms. Aiello said that originally Citicorp had requested dedicated spaces for their customers, but this was denied by staff. Ms. Aiello said that Citicorp will likely come to the March Parking Committee meeting to discuss parking and other strategies for their employees and customers. John Hammerschlag suggested that rates for 10 min. at the short-term meters should be $0.25. Alderman Wynne suggested that signs be more visible for short-term parking spaces. 1800 Maple Self Park Update David Jennings said the art glass is still to be installed. He noted that there is high use both on weekdays and on weekends. There have been 2 meetings regarding operational issues and signage. Those participating in these meetings include representatives from the Police Department, City Manager's Office-, Public Works, Facilities Management, Century Theater, Standard Parking, and Arthur Hill Co. He said that the temporary LED signage is working well to direct cars at the second Ievel to proceed to upper floors. One of the current problems revolves around people wanting to stop to prepay/purchase tickets for later shows that night as well as fissure days. Tickets can be purchased up to one week in advance. This group is looking at how to get cars in and out quickly. Consideration is being given to stripping parking on Maple to create a loading zone. One of the concerns is the impact this might have on Valet parking. The need for 15 minute parking on both sides of Clark St. between Benson Ave. and the viaduct to the west was brought up and some photos were passed around. These zones had been allowed to provide loading zones for Papa Johns and Jimmy Johns. Everyone on the Committee agreed that the traffic volume for the new garage is too high to allow parking on both sides of Clark. David Jennings recommended removing parking on the north side on a trial basis to reduce congestion at the intersection. The Committee directed him to remove the parking. John Hammersehlag asked if temporary parking could be allowed in the alley between the theaters and the CTA tracks. Mr. Jennings and Ms. Aiello advised that this area is not City property. It belongs to the CTA, and the City has agreed to keep it open at all times. Aid. Wynne asked about the status of the traffic signal for Clark and Maple. Mr. Jennings advised that we are waiting on mast arms and the controller. These materials are due in March. He added that, on the day the signal was to be turned on at Church and Maple, the signal was knocked down by a delivery truck for Powers Construction (McDougal-Littel building) and that the back panel must be rebuilt. He said this panel is expected back in the next few days. John Hammerschlag commented that he had seen a flier for the theaters but it did not mention anything about valet parking. He wondered if this was a mistake. Mr. Hammerschlag also asked about light leakage from the new garage. Richard Cook said he did not like the look from Ridge Avenue and believes the City should do something about the back walls as well as the lighting. Discussion followed among the various Committee members and City staff that this is an aesthetic issue, that no plans had been included in the original design to address the west side panels, that no negative comments had been received from nearby residents and that some comments had been positive because they can easily identify where the new garage and theater are located, that there have been positive comments about the light brightening up Clark & Oak; that the City of Chicago now requires shielding so that light does not spillover from garages; and that there is a need to balance required openings with lighting to provide a perception of openness. It was also suggested that a partial screening could be used. Aid. Wynne suggested that the Committee needs to visit the garage area rather than try to address this issue at this time. It was also suggested that there may be a need to have an architect look at the west side along with Walker Parking, which designed the building. Chicago -Main Corridor Richard Cook outlined the process the Plan Commission is using to evaluate parking around Main & Chicago. He said that when the report is finished, it should be brought to the table, so to speak, for consideration in other areas of town by the Parking Committee, Planning & DeveIopment, etc. He said that private developers should be encouraged to develop public parking as part of their design. Alderman Wynne agreed, saying that changes from commercial to housing ruted to require more than I space per unit, because that is really not enough parking. Mr. Cook added that it is important to have city lots and garages located where there is a need and that the need for public parking will continue to be an issue as development continues. He acknowledged the costs of building parking and said that special taxing districts may be needed to provide public parking. He asked whether the parking issue should be in Planning & Development Committee or part of the Parking Committee. The unanimous decision was that it should be in the Parking Committee. Alderman Wynne said that the City should look at existing City parking lots that could be developed and put this information out for developers to tell the City what they could do. Discussion followed among the members that some parcels would be more suitable than others and that the size and location of the Iot has an impact on whether public parking can be constructed due to the amount of room required to ramp floors. Ald. Wynne concluded the discussion by stating that City should look at what incentives might be offered to private developers to include public parking, citing the Rozack project on Chicago near Dempster. Staff will put together a list of potential lots. Removal of Parking at Main & Custer Item R4 was placed on the agenda to discuss removing 2 parking spaces on Main St. at Custer Ave. to improve sight distance and increase safety. David Jennings advised that Alderman Bernstein had requested the Committee hold on this subject until a future meeting. The Committee agreed to hold the matter. Kendall College Parking Heeds Jean Baucom introduced Dean Eric Forte from Kendall College. Dean Forte advised that Kendall has been in Evanston for a very long time as a liberal arts college. Initially their schools had only resident students, but over the years the number of commuter students has increased. They have developed several small parking areas, but these Iots cannot accommodate their need. He pointed out that there is no place on the campus to build additional parking and that the streets in the area have either a 2-hour time limit or a resident permit requirement. They have tried to develop other options including shuttle service from outlying areas, but have not been successful. lie requested the City to allow Kendall to have permits for neighborhood streets. Jean Baucom advised that she had worked for the last 2 years very closely with Kendall and could confirm that Kendall had tried to arrange parking with Northwestern, Presbyterian Home, Baha'i Properties in Wilmette. She said that over the last couple of years the Parking Committee had agreed and that she'd provided some special parking permits to Kendall for use by commuter. The was only one resident who complained, and this resident lived close to Central. Discussion followed about the needs of Roycemore, Kendall, the Montessori School at Kendall and about the location of unregulated parking in the area, as well as the impact of NU students living in on -campus housing on Lincoln and Sheridan. Dean Forte advised that he believes they need about 70 permits to meet the needs of daytime staff and faculty, daytime students, and resident students. John Harnmerschlag asked if they had considered valet parking for their tot The Dean was asked how many resident students they have, and he responded that the number is close to 200. He said that most of tf=se students do not have cars, but for those who do parking can be a problem. After further discussion, the Committee decided to allow 25 permits to be sold to Kendall for the period which expires June 30th, thr: Dean Forte would be responsible for issuing and collecting for the permits, that the pcsmits would be available to resident students, aoJ that hopefully this would free up some of the parking on Lincoln and Sherman adjace= to the dorms for use by commuter students, faculty, and staff. Staff was directed to advise Alderman Engelman. Emnlovee Meter Feeding in Downtown Peter Thomas, Unicorn Cafe, said he and other businesses in the area are concerned about the number of employees who are meter -feeding and reducing customer parking in tip downtown. He said he has observed employees from the music store down the block going out and feeding several meters a day as a matter of routine. He questioned wh:x can they do to reduce meterfeeding and v.-hat can they do to promote the employers to get their employees out of the meters. David Jennings said that staff will be doing some intensive turn -over studies on several blocks and later follow that up with enforcemertL Alderman Wynne said in the Main Street area business people called each and told them when they say employees of that business parking at the meters. Troy Thiel said he represents the Small Business Association in Evanston and that they believe the more multi -national chain stores and their employees don't care what is going on in the sar= way that the small businesses care. He and Mr. Thomas both related that it is very difficult to get the employees to move their cars when the store managers are parking on the street, too. Paul Giddings said that recently he found the Central Business District full by 9am and believes these are not customers' cars but employees' in the tall buildings. Jean Baucom advised that. years ago when there was a parking restriction on the first levels of the Sherman Garage before 10 A.M., it was a morning ritual to see employees park on the street and then move cars into the garage so they could be on the first floor. She also pointed out that today there are many therapists and professional offices in the downtown which begin seeing clients by 7:30am and 8:00 am. Renewal of Contract for CPS Parking Jean Baucom and David Jennings reviewed the memo, which had been provided to the Committee regarding renewal and fee increase for the garage operations and management contract with CPS Parking for the Church St. Self Park and the Sherman Ave. Garage. The Committce approved the extension and the new fees. The meeting was adjourned at 8:00 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Jean Baucom Parking System Manager The Parking Committee A Sub -Committee of the City Council of,i~vm,ston, Illinois Minutes from the Committee Meeting Of October 24.2001 Alderman Newman called the meeting to order at 6:10 P.M. Members Present: Alderman Newman, Alderman Wynne, Jonathan Perman, Richard Cook, Troy Thiel Members Absent: AIderman Bernstein, George Woolridge, Paul Giddings Staff Present: David Jennings. Jean Baucom, Keith Fujihara, Judy Aiello, Doug Gaynor, Max Rubin Visitors: Lincoln Schatz, Dan Garrison, Ron Nailer, Lucille Krasnow, Mary Singh, Arlene Haas, Oliver Goold, Steven and Gay Russel t-Dempsey. Beth Steffen, Michael Callans, Marty Norkett (7:45pm) Public Art at the 1800 Manle Sell Park Doug Gaynor, Director of Parks, Forestry and Recreation, summarized the proposed contract between the City of Evanston and the artist, Lincoln Schatz. Mr. Gaynor explained that the artwork would be completed and installed by July, 2002. Mr. Schatz indicated that the artv,ork would take around two days to install. Max Rubin, Director of Facilities Management, said that a small crane would probably be required to lift the panels in place. Mr. Rubin explained that there would always be an entrance to the garage open during the artw•ork's instaIiation. Alderman Newman requested that when a time schedule is finalized, Mr. Gaynor would make it available to the Parking Committee. Mr. Gaynor agreed. Alderman Newman moved foc the approval of the contract. The vote was unanimously agreed to. David Jennings will try to have the contract on the November 12`h City Council meeting. Jon Perman advised Messrs. Schatz and Gaynor that, if the date for installation could be prior to the 3'd weekend in June, they would have an excellent marketing opportunity because 20,CD0(1} people will attend the Fountain Square Arts Festival to be held a few blocks away. Both Messrs. Gaynor and Schatz agreed this is a really good incentive to get the work up as early as possible. Possible Change of Ordinance Regarding Parking an Sidewalks Dan Garrison, resident at 1228 Simpson Street, requested a change in the Ciry of Evanston's ordinances to ensure that vehicles do not overhang onto the public sidewalks. Mr. Garrison cited examples of these violations on the 800 block off Simpson, which he supported with pictures of vehicles that had bumpers overhanging while others had tires on the sidewalk. Mr. Garrison believes the problem is worse because parking enforcement officers are allowed to discretion. He believes that if a line is dropped plumb with the edge of the sidewalk that no part ofai vehicle should be beyond that point. David Jennings explained that enforcement was a discretionary act by both Police and the parking enforcement officer and may not be totally consistent fiam case to case. Mr. Jennings commented that parking enforcement should try to target the mores blatant cases. Mr. Garrison felt that the entire sidewalk should be cleared and that discretion shL.nuld not be used. Mr. Garrison feels that the existing ordinance does not clearly define and protect the sidewalk from the overhang of a vehicle and proposed that the ordinance be revised to. prohibit parking within 6 feet of a sidewalk. Mr. Jennings feels that the existing code is cilsar and addresses what Mr. Garrison's concerns. Judy Aiello, Assistant City Manager, stated that Alderman Kent, staff. herself. and somte of the residents in the neighborhood met a week ago to discuss issues such as parking, umsh and parties. Ms. Aiello indicated that the area in question is bounded by Emerson, Foster._ Ridge, and the CTA tracks. Ms. Aiello stated that a meeting occurred Iast night with herself, the Vice President of Student Affairs for Northwestern University, President of the Student Govt--n-went, and about a half a dozen Northwestern students discussing those issues and !housing overcrowding. his. Aiello stated that the City of Evanston will be providing the Northrwestem University's Department of Student Affairs information on resident parking distri=, snow removal ordinances, housing ordinances, etc. She said the Department will then hire an arttorney to assist the students with their leases so they are not taken advantage of by the landlar--+s. The student body will be having meetings during the winter discussing off -campus housing; issues. Mr. Garrison was at the meeting and acknowledged that most of his issues were discussed. Mr. Perman stated that discretion needs to still be made. In business districts, truc;iLs may temporarily block areas for deliveries. Aid. Newman moved amending the ordinancte which prohibits vehicles from parking on a sidewalk to include the phrase "on in such a wary as to obstruct any portion thereof ' but without the provision for the six feet to be subrmined to A&PW. The committee unanimously agreed. Mr. Jennings will try to get this ready and on the November 12'h agenda. Northwestern Universiry Discussion on Various Campus Parkin► hfallers Ron Nailer, Associate Vice President of Northwestern University, and Lucille Krasnow_ Special Assistant to the Senior Vice President of Northwestern University. spoke on parking and shuttle issues for Northwestem University. He said they have tried to focus on three majrir areas, including how to improve use of their existing parking supply, how to reduce the dennand for parking, and how to expand their supply. Mr. Nailer commented on the following issues:: 1. Northwestern University does meet the City of Evanston's parking requirements =der its zoning provisions without using Ryan Field's parking to meet this requirement. 2. Reducing Parking Demand - NU has enlarged the Walking Zone. If a faculty member, staff member or student lives within a certain zone, a parkin:& sticker for on -campus parking is not available. The current zone is south of Central Strrei, east of Ridge and north of Lake. The previous zone was Emerson., Harrison and Davis. People who live in the walking zone can utilize Ryan Field for parking at a redu=d price of S 25lyear and use the shuttle system around campus. It costs over S300/year to park on campus with a sticker. Alderman Newman asked Mr. Nailer to provide any additional information regarding the University's existing parking policies. Mr. Nailer agreed to make ar-ailable to the Parking Committee their parking mtrs, ticket strwnlm and other information regarding their parking and shuttle service 3. Shuttle Sertiac a. There is intea-campus-shuttle scrviee throughout the Evanston campus area " around Ryan Field and the Central \tetra which operatrz bm►ren 6:-15a_n.•9:35a.m., 3:45p.m.-7:00p.m. on a Monday — Friday- basis. Thcre is also Sunday night service, s%hich allows students who live %%ithin the "no parking permit" zone to use campus lots on weekends. b. This inter -campus shuttle goes from the Chicago NU campus to Loyola campus at Chicago & Sheridan to the Evanston campus from 4:30 AM to I I PM. Northwestern will provide the City of Evanston the ridership numbers 4. Ryan Field a. Sophomores and Juniors can park at Ryan Field for S 25/year. Sophomores and Juniors cannot get parking permits through the University. b. Approximately 250 permits have been issued for this year, and they expect to take over more space next spring when Evanston Hospital's use of the log ends. This should add about 700 more spaces for next school year. 5. Lark Drive (Temporary Parking) - This temporary area provides parking only for Contractors only during construction. 6. Temporary Parking Lot behind Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE). 1856 Sheridan - A proposal has been submitted for 52 spaces for 8 years, gravel or ground up asphalt, behind this facility. Arlene Haas, area resident, advised the concern of the residents regarding a temporary lot is the amount of dust and drainage issues. 7. Clark & Hinman, NW corner of Clark/Hinman — NU has proposed a 20 spaces for visitors going to the admissions office Ald. Newman inquired about current use of the 16 spaces behind Admissions Building and asked why those Univenity employees parking there could not park at the South Lot (I block away) and then make the 16 spaces available for visitors. Discussion followed among the committee, NU, and the audience regarding parking in the Clark & Hinman neighborhood. Lucille Krasnow advised that 50% of the spaces at the Admissions Building arc used by the NU Police. Aid. Newman said he had heard that NU's Police Department may be changing locations, which may also free up spaces at the Admissions Building. Ms. Krasnow and Mr. Nailer advised that there arc plans under consideration to construction new Police offices in the garage that will eventually be built at Maple & Foster, but they do not anticipate this occurring in the near future. It was also pointed out that at the first NU -neighborhood meeting questions regarding lighting, exit to alley, materials were raised about the lot at NW Clark & Hinman. NU responded to those. At second meeting, residents voiced they did not want the lot, but would support the temporary lot behind Sigma Alpha Epsilon. Residents also questioned the possibility of transferring control over parking spaces on Hinman Ave. to University. Aid. Newman said the City would not relinquish public parking spaces on -street to Northwestern; however, Aid. Newman said that since the area is unrestricted parking presently, the Parking Committee could make the parking on Hinman in that area 2, 3 or 4 hour parking, which would assist the University. 8. Foster & Maple Garage: This facility will not be developed immediately, Mr. Nailer advised because it would be counter productive to remove existing parking while there are several other major construction projects still in progress on the campus. When the current construction projects end, the plans will move forward on a garage for this site. Aid. Newman asked why NU had not built parking cast of Sheridan Road as pan of a multi -use facility instead of planning for this garage some 5 blocks away. Mr. Nailer indicated there is an agreement between the University and the City of Ev=ston, which was made as part of the land swap in the Research Park that the University would build parking for 1801 Maple (164 spaces), for the development for Parcel 7, and for uses for U-I District on the south end of the campus, and also provide parking for the shuttle route at the Foster & Maple location. Aid. Newman then asked why NU does not consider a mt;lti-purpose building on Parcel 7 and questioned by people in the former BIRL building Would walk to Foster & Maple when they can pay the City's rate and walk across the strut to 1800 Maple. Mr. Nailer responded that they (NU) will likely charge less to park: in the Foster -Maple facility than the City charges for its garage. He said they will likely charge the same rate for a permit on campus regardless of where someone parks and that this will be an incentive for people to use their garage which is only 2 blocks away Jon Perman thanked Mr. Nailer for his presentation and commented that, after all of the construction at NU and in the Central Business District, there may be a surplus of parking in the City garages near Foster & Maple. He said he believes it is in the best interest of everyone to treat this area as one market, blending NU and City agenda so that in 2 to 3 years it may not be necessary to build or build as large a facility an that site. Aid. Newman pointed out that there are concerns of having enouth parking and the ability to meet parking needs based on future growth. The sizes of the new 1800 Maple Garage and the new one for Sherman Avc. were designed to meet the needs of the development of the theaters and the buildings presently planned for Church Street and Sherman Avenue. If there is other growth in the downtown, it will be necessary to have sufficient parking to meet that growth. Mr. Perman reiterated that there is a need to blend and to consider the market as a whole rather that the separate entities. Mr. Nailer advised that the doors are open and NU is willing to talk and work together on parking issues. Michael Callas of the Foster -Maple neighborhood thanked everyone for their various perceptions and concern for maintaining residential neighbcsaoods in this area. He said he felt the neighborhood had not been informed about the signage that was being used on Maple Avenue and that now he Iccks out his windows and sees the large Century Theater sign. The Sign Board never talked or told the area residents, and there was never any information provided to the residents that allowed them to comment on the impact of this decisions. He said he hopes this will not be the case when something is approved for the Foster -Maple property. He is still concerned that having a prage built will change the character of the area and put too much traffic there. He feels additional traffic control is needed, including a cul-de-sac so that %ehicles cannot use Maple as a cut -through. Mr. Nailer advised that NU has been working with the representative from the Fireman's Park Neighborhood, and they will continue to provide information through that contact. Alderman Newman adjourned the meeting at SM P.M. pectfully submitted, n Baucom Keith Fnjihara king Systems Manager Deputy Public Works Dirwor