HomeMy WebLinkAbout10/20/1998, 2 - SAN LUIS OBISPO CREEK WALK CONCEPT PLAN (MISSION PLAZA EXPANSION) council ftnfiwD�lo 20q�
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C I T Y OF SAN LUIS OBISPO
FROM: Michael McCluskey,Public Works Director
Prepared By: Reinie Jones,Engineering Assistant-J�L6.
SUBJECT: SAN LUIS OBISPO CREEK WALK CONCEPT PLAN
(NIISSION PLAZA EXPANSION)
CAO RECOMMENDATION
1. Approve the concept design for San Luis Obispo Creek Walk.
2. Adopt the resolution approving a mitigated negative declaration of environmental impact.
3. Authorize the City Administrative Officer to execute an amendment to the design contract with
Firma for preparation of construction documents at a cost of$50,000.
4. Appropriate $79,300 from the unappropriated balance of the general fund to fully cover project
design and construction costs.
5. Approve the request for proposals for "San Luis Obispo Creek Walk Public Art, Specification
No.90-28B"
6. Authorize the City Administrative Officer to award a contract for design and fabrication of
public art if the cost is within the budget of$20,600.
7. Adopt resolution authorizing staff to complete and submit applications for grant money from
the Salmon and Steelhead Trout Restoration Account(SSTRA)in the amount of$30,000.
DISCUSSION
Background
Expanding Mission Plaza between Broad and Nipomo Streets has been a City goal since the early
1970's. In 1979 a consulting architect prepared plans and specifications for improvements on the
Monterey Street side of San Luis Obispo Creek between Broad and Nipomo Streets,but difficulties
with right of way acquisition precluded construction.
In 1988 the City completed improvements on the Higuera Street side of the creek in conjunction
with development in that area. In 1997 the City acquired the last properties needed to construct
improvements on the Monterey Street side of the creek.
Concept Design
Since preparation of the 1979 improvement plans, a portion of the bank along the Monterey Street
side of the creek has eroded away, and the focus for improvements has shifted from the active uses
envisioned in 1979 to more passive uses. To accommodate these changes,in January 1998 the City
awarded a contract to Firma for preparation of a new conceptual design to include creek restoration,
bank stabilization, pedestrian paths, and other park improvements. Firma's duties included
obtaining public consensus and ensuring compliance with all federal, state and local regulations.
To gather public input on the design, Firma conducted two public workshops, one in March 1998
and one in June 1998. The first workshop solicited ideas from the workshop attendees, while the
second workshop focused on a critical review of the preliminary concept design. One important
outcome of the workshops was a recommendation to change the name from "Mission Plaza
Expansion"to"San Luis Obispo Creek Walk."
Council Agenda Report-San Luis Obispo Creek Walk Concept Plan
Page 2
The concept design includes pedestrian access from both Broad and Nipomo Streets and a
pedestrian bridge near the midpoint at the Phoenix Building. Boulders will be installed in the creek
to enhance wildlife habitat and prevent undermining of existing structures. Design features from
Mission Plaza, such as stone veneer walls, colored concrete and mission style railing, will be
included in the Creek Walk The project will remove most of the existing exotic plant species and
re-vegetate with native species. The concept design satisfies the consensus of design objectives for
creek restoration,bank stabilization,pedestrian access, and aesthetic park improvements.
Access to the Creek Walk from Mission Plaza will require walking across Broad Street at mid-
block. Because the Downtown Concept Plan shows a plaza on Broad Street with limited vehicle
access and because current traffic volumes are low, a mid-block crosswalk is not part of the project.
Site visibility can be improved, if needed, by parking removal. Public Works will monitor
pedestrian/vehicle interaction and report any problems to Council.
Firma also met with federal, state, and local agencies to discuss permit requirements for the project.
Public Works and Community Development are recommending adoption of a mitigated negative
declaration. Mitigation measures for the project are specified in the attached resolution. These
measures include:
• Placing boulders at strategic locations to prevent erosion
• Grading of a terraced creek bank to reduce bank erosion and flooding
• Restricting construction activities in the creek to prevent sedimentation
• Planting native riparian vegetation to prevent loss of riparian habitat
• Hiring a biologist to ensure compliance with mitigation measures and permit conditions
On September 4, 1998 a public notice (ER 129-97) was issued for review and comment in
accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). Minor requests for wording
changes in the mitigated negative declaration were received from the State Department of Fish &
Game and the Regional Water Quality Control Board. These wording changes have been
incorporated in the attached resolution.
The City has filed Nationwide Permits #27-Environmental Enhancement and #33-Temporary
Construction, Access, and Dewatering with the Army Corps of Engineers. Resource agencies have
been notified and formal consultations with National Marine Fisheries and the U.S. Fish and
Wildlife Service are currently underway. Public Works hopes to receive permits by the end of
January 1999.
Construction Documents
Because of so many project uncertainties, Firma's initial contract obligations only included
obtaining approvals for a conceptual plan and environmental documents. However, the contract
does include an option to negotiate preparation of construction documents based on the concept
design, mitigation measures, and federal and state permit conditions. Public Works has negotiated
a contract amendment with Firma to prepare construction documents at a cost of$50,000. Related
contract work includes hiring and coordination of structural and civil engineers, construction
administration assistance and environmental monitoring. With approval of the design contract and
pending permits, the project will remain on schedule for construction during summer of 1999.
7
Council Agenda Report-San Luis Obispo Creek Walk Concept Plan
Page 3
Public Art
Under the City's public art policy, 1% of the project construction budget ($3,000) should be
designated for public art. In July of 1998, the Council allocated an additional$17,600 for public art
for this project, for a total public art budget at this time of$20,600.
Firma has assisted staff in identifying opportunities for public art within the project. The second
public workshop led to consensus about the need for a way to visually connect the stairway
entrance to Mission Plaza on Broad Street with the Creek Walk entrance across the street.
Workshop participants felt that public art on both sides of Broad Street could provide the needed
visual connection. Other opportunities for public art include unique bench and railing designs.
Public Works has prepared a request for proposals(RFP 90-28B)to famish public art in the form of
entrance features, benches or railings. Upon Council approval of the RFP, a committee consisting
of volunteers from the public workshops,the Arts Council and nearby property owners will review
the proposals and select a public art piece. Their recommendation will be forwarded to the Council
for final approval.
Children's Museum
Children's Museum is located on City-owned property at the comer of Nipomo and Monterey
Streets. Museum representatives have been consulted and are in agreement with the project The
project will move the creekside fence about ten feet into the museum yard, requiring relocation of
irrigation, electrical and water lines. Some minor concrete work will also be needed in order to
modify the patio. Because the contractor will be using the museum site for construction access,
three parking spaces will be temporarily provided-for the museum in Lot#14 on Monterey Street to
compensate for lost parking on site. Construction plans also call for moving the play train and
installing a temporary fence along the construction access road. The estimated cost of work
associated with the museum site is$5,500.
Salmon and Steelhead Trout Restoration Account Grant Request
The State Legislature created the Salmon and Steelhead Trout Restoration Account in August 1997
with the passage of SB271. This legislation makes available eight million dollars for a variety of
projects designed to enhance habitat for salmon and steelhead trout in streams outside of the Central
Valley drainage. The habitat restoration portion of the San Luis Obispo Creek Walk project is
eligible for grant funds. The habitat restoration portion includes placing boulders in the creek to
provide small pools for the trout habitat. Staff.estimates the cost of these improvements to be
approximately$30,000. The filing deadline is November 6, 1998. If the grant is approved,then the
general fund contribution may be reduced.
CONCURRENCES
The Parks and Recreation Commission and the Architectural Review Commission have reviewed
and approved the concept design. Public art for San Luis Obispo Creek Walk has been developed
with the concurrence of the Art in Public Places Program Coordinator.
FISCAL EMPACT
Status of the Project Budget
An additional $79,300 is needed in the project budget for design, construction, and construction
management. As discussed below, most of this added cost ($68,300) is for design. While $80,000
�3
Council Agenda Report-San Luis Obispo Creek Walk Concept Plan
Page 4
was originally budgeted for study and design, $56,400 of this amount was subsequently transferred
to help fund the completion of rights-of-way acquisition along San Luis Creek.
The landscape architect is designing the creek walk improvements to stay within the originally
approved $300,000 construction budget (as noted above, $3,000 was subsequently transferred for
public art, leaving an available balance of$297,000). However, as discussed below, $5,000 for
unanticipated construction is needed at the Children's Museum site, for a total estimated
construction cost of $305,000. Finally, an additional $3,000 is needed for construction
management in the form of geotechnical engineering services.
The following summarizes the proposed budget modifications:
Project Budget Summary
Project Budget Proposed
Current Proposed Budget Chang
Land Acquisition and Related Costs 778,300 778,300
Site Preparation 8,000 8,000 -
Study and Design 23,600 91,900 68,300
Construction 297,000 305,000 8,000
Construction Management 3,000 3,000
Public Art 20,600 ,600 -
Total $ 1J27,500 [7$ 1;006,,800 $ 799300
To fund the revised budget, we recommend appropriating$79,300 from the unappropriated balance
of the general fund. Adequate resources are available to fund the proposed appropriation and retain
fund balance at policy levels.
Detail of Estimated Design,Construction and Construction Management Costs
Estimated Study/Design Costs:
Conceptual Design $33,300
Construction Documents 50,000
Children's Museum Design 500
Printing 3,000
Advertising 100
Contingencies 5,000
$91,900
Estimated Construction Costs:
Construction Contract $300,000
Children's Museum 5,000
$305,000
Estimated Construction Management Costs:
Geotechnical Engineering $3,000
$3,000
• l
Council Agenda Report-San Luis Obispo Creek Walk Concept Plan
Page 5
ATTACHMENTS
• San Luis Obispo Creek Walk constraint analysis and conceptual design
• Resolution approving a mitigated negative declaration of environmental impact for the San Luis
Obispo creek walk project(ER 129-97)
• Resolution authorizing application of grant funds from the California Department of Fish &
Game
AVAILABLE FOR REVIEW IN THE COUNCIL OFFICE
Public art request for proposal
S
RESOLUTION NO. (1998 Series)
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF SAN LUIS OBISPO APPROVING A MITIGATED
NEGATIVE DECLARATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT FOR THE
SAN LUIS OBISPO CREEK WALK PROJECT(ER 129-97)
WHEREAS, a public notice (ER 129-97) was issued for review and comment in
accordance with California Environmental Quality Act(CEQA).
WHEREAS, the City Council has held a public heating on October 20, 1998 and has
considered testimony of interested patties; and
WHEREAS, the City Council has considered the Mitigated Negative Declaration as
prepared by Firma;
BE IT RESOLVED,by the Council of the City of San Luis Obispo as follows:
The City Council finds and determines that the project's Negative Declaration with the
recommended mitigation therein adequately addresses the potential significant environmental
impact of the proposed project and reflects the independent judgment of the City Council. The
Council hereby adopts said Negative Declaration and incorporates the following mitigation
measures into the project:
1. Mitigation 3f: To reduce or avoid further bank retreat and instability and mitigate
potential impacts on the stream channel that could result from the grading and creation of
the project paths the project shall include the following:
a) The north bank be graded to create a floodable terrace at about the level of
2xBankfull. The banks below and above this terrace should have slopes of
about 2 to 1 and be revegetated to stabilize the new slope. The new terrace
shelf will accommodate high flood waters and reduce the strain on both
banks, thus reducing the potential for future bank erosion. This floodable
area will provide a small backwater area which may reduce some future
flooding of the nearby area.
b) Both the terrace and the banks must be landscaped in a manner to reduce
future erosion and slow flood water flow. The vegetation nearest the creek
should be native plants which will not easily break off during high flows.
C) Construct rock veins along the north side of the creek, running from the
existing Thalweg to the bank. The rock veins create a gentle eddying
effect near the bank, provide a small pool for habitat and divert high flows
away from the bank.
d) Using rock, construct an energy dissipater at the base of the outlet of the
existing drainage pipe located southwest of the building.
e) Construct one or more rock veins along the north side of the creek to
divert flows away from the north bank and create pools for habitat.
f) Construct one rock vein on the south side of the creek to divert and diffuse
high flows along the existing concrete wall.
g) Construct a vortex rock weir at the location of the exposed bed rock to
create in-stream cover/holding water; take excess shear stress away from
the near bank region and direct it to the center of the stream to maintain
cZ'6
lateral stability; increase stream depth by decreasing the width/depth ratio;
increase sediment transport capacity; provide natural sorting of gravel; and
greater grade control to prevent down-cutting.
h) Construct a rock vein along the south bank above the existing small falls
to reduce stream velocities and divert higher flows away from the wall
foundations on this side of the channel.
1) Construct two rock veins along the south bank along the parking lot area.
The second rock vein should be wide enough and situated so that the flows
from the drainage pipe are dissipated by the rock and erosion is reduced.
A small vortex rock weir is needed for area near the Children's Museum.
This rock weir will direct flows away from the two banks to reduce the
erosion potential and will create small pools for fish.
j) Construct three rock veins. The first rock vein should be located on the
south bank to reduce erosion potential near the Nipomo Street Bridge.
The second rock vein is proposed just west of the existing sloping slate
wall on the north bank, adjacent to the bridge. This rock vein will divert
high flows away from the slate structure and should reduce undercutting of
the slate wall. It will also help to direct stream flows toward the bridge
opening and assist the stream in making this sharp turn. The third rock
vein is proposed for the north side of the channel, near the west opening
under the bridge. This is a point of current bed erosion and the rock vein
should help to direct flows away from the walls and reduce undercutting of
the creek bed.
Monitoring Program: Final Plans shall include the above measures and shall be verified
by City prior to commencing construction. Monitor installation in the field.
2. Mitigation 4b: To mitigate potential flood level impacts or obstructions the proposed
bridge shall be set at a bottom elevation matching the top of the retaining wall (plus or
minus about 0.5 feet), to pass a 100 flood, as determined by the City Engineer. The
design of improvements should place most walks, lighting and benches above the 10 year
storm event creek water elevation or the design of each of these elements shall include
cut-off foundations to resist undermining, and be constructed or heavy, durable materials.
Monitoring Program: City Engineer shall review Final Plans for compliance.
3. Mitigation 4c: To reduce potential sedimentation to the creek to less than significant
levels the final grading plan shall incorporate the following Best Management Practices
for sedimentation control and work in and near creeks, and comply with all City Grading
Ordinance and Regional Water Quality Control Board water certification conditions
which may be required under Section 401 of the Clean Water Act as part of the NWP 27:
a) All work within San Luis Obispo Creek shall be confined to the months of April
15 to October 15. If during this construction period the National Weather Service
determines the probability of rain is greater than 30 percent, no work shall be
performed within the creek and all stream diversion instruments shall be
completely removed to upland areas.
b) To divert creek flows during construction of habitat and bank improvements, the
contractor shall install a temporary sandbag dam sealed with plastic sheeting and a
polyethylene pipe to convey impounded water from upstream of the sandbag dam
past the project site. The pipe shall be installed at stream channel grade. Upon
completion of the project, the temporary stream diversion shall be completely
— 7
removed from the channel, and the affected area restored to pre-project
conditions.
c) If dewatering of the construction site is deemed necessary, the City shall submit
-- an erosion and siltation control plan for review and approval by the Corps of
Engineers at least two weeks prior to project commencement.
d) The final grading plans shall include provisions for straw bales and silt fences in
and around the creek to trap any incidental silt.
e) All non-cobble native material excavated from the creek to create the ponds shall
be disposed of off site to avoid excessive sedimentation within the creek. At no
time shall this excavated material be placed or sidecast into the creek. Native
cobbles shall be retained and replaced as feasible.
f) The project shall be accomplished with equipment positioned on the bank using
temporary access ramps constructed from the bank to the creek. In addition,
staging, fueling, maintenance, and storage of equipment and materials shall be
located outside the waterway. All exposed debris piles and construction materials
should be covered or located to reduce potential to enter the creek.
g) No debris, soil, silt, sand, rubbish, cement or concrete washings thereof, oil or
petroleum products or caustic cleaning chemicals or solvents shall be allowed to
enter into or placed where it may be washed by rainfall or runoff into San Luis
Obispo Creek. When operations are completed, any excess materials or debris
from construction shall be removed from the work area. No rubbish shall be
deposited within San Luis Obispo creek at any time.
Monitoring Program: Final Plans shall include the above measures and shall be verified
by the City prior to commencing construction. Monitor for compliance in the field.
4. Mitigation 5a: Consistent with grading standards in the Uniform Building Code, all
graded surfaces shall be wetted, protected or contained in such a manner as to prevent
dust or spill upon any adjoining property or street. The following measures shall
constitute the project's dust management plan and shall remain in effect during all phases
of the project's construction:
a) Regular wetting of roads and graded areas (at least twice daily with complete
coverage of all active areas;
b) Increasing frequency of watering whenever winds exceed 15 mph;
C) Cessation of grading activities during periods of winds over 25 mph;
d) Direct application of water on material being excavated and/or transported onsite
or offsite;
e) Watering material stockpiles; and
f) Use of non-potable water is required in all construction and dust control work.
Monitoring Program: Final Plans shall include the above measures. Monitor compliance
in the field.
5. Mitigation 7a: In order to mitigate potential no adverse short term impacts to the stream
habitat during construction of the improvements to the channel the following measures
shall be incorporated into the project specifications:
a) Follow all sedimentation control measures and stream diversion requirements
listed in Mitigation Measure 4c.
c2 —O
b) Limit the duration of stream diversion to no more than 21 days.
C) Divert the stream at a period of minimum flow.
d) All boulder structures shall be embedded into excavations and backfilled with
native gravel and cobbles.
e) Boulders shall be anchored and tied together using steel cables or rods embedded
into adhesive filled, drilled cavities in the rock.
f) Prior to commencing construction a qualified biologist, approved by the
Department of Fish and Game, shall be retained to monitor work in the creek.
g) During creek diversion operations and before the creek pools completely diminish
the project biologist shall capture by net and relocate all trout trapped in the
stream. Trout shall be relocated downstream or upstream in an appropriate
manner and location.
h) The project shall comply with any other special conditions required by NMFS and
the USFWS under Section 7 incidental take permits pursuant to the Endangered
Species Act and the Nationwide Permit 27 which are anticipated to be issued by
these agencies; including a presencetabsence survey for red-legged frogs
immediately prior to construction.
I) The final plans shall include pockets of fast growing native trees to provide shade
to the stream.
Monitoring Program: Final Plan shall include the above features and notes, and shall be
verified by the City prior to commencing construction. The work shall be monitored in
the field by a qualified biologist.
6. Mitigation 7d: To mitigate potential loss of riparian habitat values in the creek corridor
the project shall include northern bank plantings and plantings on the existing terrace on
the south side of the creek consisting of native riparian plants including blackberry
(Rubus ursinus), honeysuckle (L.onicera hispidula), Willow (Salix laseolepis),
Cottonwood (Populus trichocarpa), Sycamore (Platanus racemosa), Coffeebeny
(Rhamnus californica), California Bay (Umbellularia californica), Sedge (Carex spp.),
Wild Rose (Rosa Californica), and Western Redbud (Cercis occidentalis).
Monitoring Program: The Final Plans shall include the above revegetation measures
and shall be verified by the city prior to commencing construction. Verify installation in
the field.
7. Mitigation 12f: The construction project shall include a solid waste recycling plan for
recycling discarded materials, such as concrete, sheetrock, wood, and metals, from the
construction site. The plan must be approved by the Community Development Director,
prior to building permit issuance.
Monitoring Program: Verify that plan is in place prior to commencing construction and
monitor compliance in the field.
8. Mitigation 14a-b: As a standard City mitigation measure, the final grading plan shall
contain a note which requires the contractor to stop work and contact the Community
Development Department in the event any cultural artifacts are uncovered. If any
archaeological resources are found during site preparation, all earth-work within 150-feet
of the object(s) shall cease until the resources have been evaluated by a qualified
- archaeologist. Any additional mitigation measures recommended by the archaeologist
shall be evaluated by the Community Development Director, and upon Director approval,
implemented by the applicant.
Monitoring Program: Project monitor shall review field conditions periodically to
verify compliance.
Upon motion of , seconded by
and on the following roll call vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
the foregoing resolution was adopted this day of 199x.
Mayor Allen Settle
ATTEST:
Lee Price,City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
Jeffrey G. Jorgensen, City Attorney
�/b
RESOLUTION NO. (1998 Seriesa)
RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SAN LUIS OBISPO
AUTHORIZING APPLICATION FOR GRANT FUNDS FROM THE CALIFORNIA
DEPARTMENT OF FISH AND GAME FOR THE PROJECT KNOWN AS
SAN LUIS OBISPO CREEK WALK
WHEREAS, the California Department of Fish and Game ("Department") has requested
proposals for fishery restoration work throughout the State of California,
WHEREAS, the Department has stated in its request for proposals that projects intended to
particularly benefit salmonid resources of the State will receive highest priority for funding; and
WHEREAS, The City of San Luis Obispo maintains a strong interest in the potential for
improvement of salmonid habitat within San Luis Obispo Creek and its tributaries: and
WHEREAS, the San Luis Obispo Creek Walk Project includes enhancing the salmonid
habitat.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council of the City of San Luis
Obispo hereby:
1. Authorizes the filing of an application for grant funds from the California Salmon and
Steelhead Trout Restoration Account; and
2. Appoints the City Administrative Officer as agent of the City to conduct all negotiations,
execute and submit all documents, including, but not limited to, applications, agreements,
amendments, payment requests and so on, which may be necessary-for the completion of the
aforementioned project.
Approved and adopted this 20th day of October, 1998.
On motion of seconded by and on the
following roll call vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
The foregoing resolution was adopted this day of , 1998.
Allen K. Settle,Mayor
ATTEST:
Lee Price,City Clerk
. Resolution`No. (1998 Series)
pop 2
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
Jeffrey G .Jorgensen=
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ids-(.r;1�}ed iqS iqea p AGENDA
,A,E,nMEr4�'`2a>/9 ITEM # --
DATE
MEMO
To: Reinie Jones,Engineering Assistant Copies: Michael McCluskey
Wendy George/ t to CAO John Dunn
From Ken Schwartz Count
Re: San Luis Ob' eek Walk Plan& Signage Program October 15, 1998
Reinie,this is for the purpose of reviewing our conversations today regarding the Creek Walk
project. I am personally very pleased that, at long last,the Council will have this project in front
of it for action on Tuesday night. You know,but I will note for those who are copied,that I have
been a part of this project's development from the first walk through of the project area, and was
a member of the interview team which recommended FIRMA be commissioned to do the design.
I would like to commend you for shepherding this project along so nicely. The package you have
assembled looks to me to be very complete and I am enthusiastic about the design that FIRMA
has produced. I hope that the public and the Council will think likewise.
I did raise a couple ofpoiats/concerns with you which I hope you will consider as you finalize
your presentation before the Council. With staff and Council agreement, a few changes would
need to be made in some of the documents. My concerns are:
1. Assurance that when the creek is dammed and heavy equipment is in the creekbed to install
the rock weirs and veins that all non-native materials, such as broken concrete pieces,
will be removed from the creek bed leaving the remaining cobbled creekbed to be completely
natural in appearance.
2. Art Work, Specification 90-28B:
(a) The artist's choice of projects should be eliminated in favor ofthe"prime"project which
according to David Foote would be the Brld Street"tie"between the end of the existing
Mission Plaza and the beginning of the creek walk. I strongly agree with David's priority.
(b) Identify the Benches and Railings as"secondary"projects and permit the artist to submit
designs only if the artist believes that he/she can produce a prime project and still have
money remaining within the budget to execute a bench and/or railing project. (Such
secondary designs might be considered as prototypes for future execution when additional
fiords become available-in the case of benches,individual citizens could step forward to
purchase one as has happened with the downtown bench program.)
_ (c) Slightly alter the composition of the Art Selection Committee by reducing from 2 to 1 the
membership of the working committee and substitute one ,
7131
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MEMO: page 2 of 2
Concept Design team, I believe this substitution would not only keep the critiques of
artists!proposals at a high level, but would help the selection committee better understand
the "fit" of this artwork into the downtown design context.
Three additional thoughts:
1. Artwork To eliminate the Landscape Architect from having a say in the selection of artwork
which is to become an integral part of his overall design is a huge mistake. I propose that
David Foote be added to the committee and that he be compensated for his professional time.
2. The construction cost estimate is perilously close to dollars budgeted for the project- only a
$300 difference. That is very little cushion for a project complicated by streambed
improvements dictated by other agencies. It would be well for staff and Council members to
consider a more reasonable contingency. Given the considerable improvement that this
project will make to stream flow in flood conditions, I would hope that there might be some
fiords tucked away somewhere for flood control that could be applied to a more reasonable
contingency should such be needed when bids are received
3. Using art work to visually bridge Broad Street is such a neat idea, I think the Council should
consider that same idea to bridge Nipomo Street and visually tie the Broad-Nipomo block to
the Nipomo-downstream block Our city to sea pathway will eventually work its way
down into that block- actually, a bit of it exists already albeit it is a path on private land
leading to businesses in the Creamery. Questions: Was a budget for art assigned to the
Nipomo Street bridge reconstruction? If so,how was it used? Ifnot,might a budget be
assigned after the fact to duplicate at Nipomo Street what may be done at Broad Street?
A final thought to Council members. In my judgment as a design professional,it is absolutely
essential for the design person- architect,landscape architect, engineer-to have a voice in the an
work which is to be integrated into their project even though it could be a sculpture physically
separated from a structure itself(like the mobile at the Parks&Recreation office). In the best of
all circumstances,the artist should be selected in advance and work with the design professional
during the evolution of the project design much lice the collaboration that exists between an
architect and a structural engineer when a building is being designed I would hope that we
would favorably consider changing our artist selection policies accordingly.
•tip
MEETING AGENDA
DATE ' 1.20-If F ITEM #
MEMORANDUM
October 19, 1998
FCrCAOO
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To: John Dunn ❑ FIN DIR❑ FSE CHIEFC3'PW DIRFrom: Dave Romero �� ❑ POLICE CHF❑ RTC DIRp UTIL DIRRE: Concerns Regarding Mission Plaza Expansion p PERS DIR
Although I am very much in favor of the project, I have a number on concerns which I hope can
be addressed prior to the Council meeting:
A) The design discourages public contact with in the water. I have often observed children
having a wonderful time in the stream in the current Mission Plaza. I believe it will be virtually
impossible to keep children out of the stream in the project area. I feel this design should
accommodate safer access to the water.
B) Will the cross section of the creek upon completion of the project be large enough to
accommodate the 40-year storm which is our adopted design criteria for this portion of the creek?
This will be our only chance to achieve a balanced hydraulic design in this area in order to
minimize flooding for the downtown.
C) I noticed there is only$5,000 set aside for contingencies. This kind of job is very
complicated with many unknowns. It is not reasonable to assume that a contingency of less than
5%will be sufficient for the inevitable change orders.
D) Pedestrian access from Higuera Street currently winds past City installed planters,and tables
and chairs from the private businesses. I believe this plan and contracts should include sufficient
modification to the access way to provide improved and safer access for the pedestrians who will
use the bridge.
E) The agenda report and the Conceptual Plan imply a relatively minor disturbance to the
Children's Museum area There is a substantial excavation and clearing and grubbing required
for the project. I believe the most convenient, and perhaps the only practical way to remove
material,will be through the Children's Museum property creating major disruption.
F) I did not see lighting included along the north side of the creek. Night time access to the
property is a part of the charm to Mission Plaza Lighting certainly should be provided.
While we are at it we might wish to consider upgrading lighting on the south side and the
parking lot.
G) I see we are planning to extend gabions which are not very attractive. I would hope the plans
would include planting above the gabions to allow trailing vines to eventually cover them.
t
H) We have had continuing problems with deterioration of the wooden steps in the existing
_ Mission Plaza. I would hope plans include some kind of protective edge on each step.
I) Mitigation 7a(b) (agenda page 2=9) limit!the duration of the stream div"errs_ionto 21 days. If
we have flexibility we should 016W fora longer period: .
c: Council
ME7IN AGENDA
DATE ooh ITEM #
October 19, 1998
To: San Luis Obispo City Council
From:Penny Rappa
Re: Item 42 San Luis Obispo Creek Walk Concept Plan
Having participated in the workshops for this item I wish to encourage
your approval of this concept plan. Much has changed since the initial
concept of Mission Plaza. In fact, I believe the community now envisions a
walkway to the sea as promoted by the Land Conservancy and others. One
might say the City has served as the catalyst for a greater vision.
Considering a larger scale project, allows one to incorporate both
passive and active portions to meet the diverse needs of the community at
large. A passive approach for this section appears to meet that goal. It is
also important that the public be directed to this section, as ongoing
activities may not provide that opportunity. The treatment of the "Broad
Street" crossing is an essential element.
Your approval this evening, including application for the available
grant funds in a timely manner, provides yet another opportunity for the
community to enhance and improve the creek habitat. In my opinion, this is
an important element to the vitality of San Luis Creek.
In closing, I reiterate my encouragement for your approval of this
concept plan.
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ME"?ING AGENDA
DATE 7- ITEM #
MEMO
To: Mayor Settle and Council members Roalman, October 20, 1998
Romero and Williams Copies: John Damn, Wendy George
From: Ken Schwartz, Trustee / Mike McCluskey, Reinie
Mary Jane Duvall T d Jones,Bill Statler, David
Re: Offer of sculpture for the San Luis Obispo Foote, LArch.
Creek Walk project,FIRMA, Landscape Architect
The attached outline represents, in preliminary form, an offer by the Mary Jane Duvall Trust Fund
to the City of San Luis Obispo for a sculpture to be placed within the proposed San Luis Obispo
Creek Walk project.
First, a bit of background which some of you may not know. Mary Jane Duvall was my secretary
at Cal Poly during the time of the development of the Mission Plaza. We often talked about the
Plaza and the impact it could have on the community, and we also talked about the bare-bones
nature of the design and the need for future embellishments. Mary Jane died very suddenly. She
had no direct family. Much to my surprise and amazement, Mary Jane left her entire estate
(which was quite modest)to the City of San Luis Obispo and named me as trustee for its
disposition in carrying forward the basic intentions of the Mission Plaza. I might add that the will
names my wife,Martha, successor trustee upon my death. These conditions were accepted
formally by the City and the Trust Fund is maintained by the Finance Department.
To date,trust moneys have been used to: (1)build the plaza arbor;(2)provide the major
contribution to the Bear and Chumash child in the plaza fountain; and(3) assist through a$25,000
contribution, a major expansion of the Art Center. In addition, $50,000 has been set aside to
assist the Little Theater in the construction of a new theater on condition that the new theater is
built on the site leased to the Little Theater by the City;that site is presently used by the Children's
Museum Another small project which has received approval by the Parks and Recreation
Conm3ission and the Cultural Hertitage Committee is for the placement of two historical-
informational plaques in the Mission Plaza. This project is in progress, albeit slow.
I am confident that Mary Jane would be more than pleased with the results of her generosity.
It would please me if the Council would direct the staff to finalize this offer and place a
recommendation on the next consent agenda for Council action.
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Memo attachment: Page 1 of 2
Preliminary conditions of the offer of sculpture:
Mary Jane Duvall Trust
Theme: Creek Life. An animal or animal grouping that would be(or would have been)
found in the San Luis Obispo Creek corridor. Fish to be excluded.
Note: this theme is established in the Bear &Chumash Child sculpture found
at the Mission Plaza fountain.
Character: Free standing, three dimensional and sufficiently realistic/impressionistic to
portray the animal(s).
Note: reference Bear &Chumash Child, Paula Zima, artist.
Scale: Lifesize
Materials: Durable, e.g. stone, marble, concrete, ceramic, metal or combinations, etc.
Location: Precise location within the Creek Walk as well as the setting(hardscape, so8scape,
or water)to be determined in consultation with Creek Walk landscape architect
David Foote and approved by the Architectural Review Commission. General
parameters: To be above level of likely flood damage;to be visually prominent;to
be accessible to children for touching or climbing depending on scale;to be night
lighted for security.
Artist
Eligibility: Artists must be residents of San Luis Obispo County.
Procedures: City Request for Proposal(RFP)procedures modified as necessary to include
conditions of this offer.
Submittals: 1. Renderings or models of sufficient size and detail to clearly convey the essence
of the proposed sculpture in its setting.
2. Six to ten 35mm slides of the renderings or models to be used in presentations
to large audiences.
3. Written declaration warranting that the sculpture is original work created for
this specific project and that, upon completion and installation the work
becomes the property of the City of San Luis Obispo.
w
Memo attachment: Page 2 of 2
Selection jury: Myron Graham, Chairman
Arts Council member, former Councilman, long standing supporter of the
Mission Plaza, and respected community advocate for the arts.
Pierre Rademaker, Graphic artist;member, Downtown Concept Plan Design Team
Robert Reynolds, Artist
Linnaea Phillips, Community Activist and arts advocate
David Foote, Landscape Architect
Award: $20,000.00 for the design and the production of the sculpture fitted for site
installation.
For additional site design work and consultation by FIRMA and for site
preparation by contractor, $5,000.00 maximum
Acknow-
ledgements:
cknowledgements: A small brass plaque appropriately placed and secured noting the title of the work,
the name ofthe artist, the donor: The Mary Jane Duvall Trust, and the date.
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