& WEBB u I & - o a - AGF DLFTAN PIANNING MPO POLICY COMMITTEE MEETING www.laredompo.org Meeting Date & Time: June 15th, 2022 at 1:30 p.m. Meeting Location: City of Laredo Council Chambers, 1110 Houston St., Laredo, Texas 78040 Meeting Link: http:/laredotxswwagit.com/live Laredo TV: Spectrum TV channel 1300 AGENDA: RECD CITY SEC OFF I. CHAIRPERSON TO CALL MEETING TO ORDER JUN 10 22 PM12:32 II. CHAIRPERSON TO CALL ROLL III. CITIZEN COMMENTS Speakers are required to fill out witness cards, which must be submitted to MPO Staff no later than 1:45 p.m. the day of the meeting. Speakers shall identify themselves at the microphone. Comments are limited to three (3) minutes per speaker. No more than three (3) persons will be allowed to speak on any side of an issue. Should there be more than three (3) people who wish to speak on a specific issue, they should select not more than three (3) representatives to speak on their behalf. The presiding officer may further limit public on the interest of order or time. Speakers may not transfer their minutes to any other speaker. Comments should be relevant to MPO business and delivered in a professional manner. No derogatory remarks shall be permitted. IV. ITEMS REQUIRING POLICY COMMITTEE ACTION: A. Approval of the minutes for the meeting held on May 18th, 2022. B. Receive public testimony and initiate a twenty-day publicreview and comment period for the draft FY 2023 Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP). C. A motion authorizing the execution of an Interlocal Agreement with the Webb County- City of Laredo Regional Mobility Authority to share the cost associated with the River Road Corridor Study. LAREDO & WEBB COUNTY Page 1 of 3 AREA METROPOLITAN PLANNING ORGANIZATION MPO POLICY COMMITTEE MEETING AGENDA D. Discussion with possible action on exploring the feasibility of a Transportation Reinvestment Zone (TRZ) in North Laredo-Webb County including along FM 1472. (Requested by Mayor Pete Saenz, Chairperson). E. Discussion with possible action on the Hachar-Reuthinger Road project. V. REPORT(S) AND PRESENTATIONS (No action required). A. Status report by the Regional Mobility Authority (RMA). VI. DIRECTOR's COMMENTS VII. ADIOURNMENT NOTICE INFORMATION: Notice of this meeting was posted at the municipal government offices, 1110 Houston Street, Laredo, Texas, at a place convenient and readily accessible to the public at all times. Said notice was posted 72 hours before the meeting date and time. The agenda and meeting information was also posted online at ntp/pwlarsdompoorasendas-minutes. All meetings of the MPO Committee are open to the public. Persons who plan to attend this meeting and who may need auxiliary aid or services such as: interpreters for persons who are deaf or hearing impaired, readers of large print or Braille, or a translator for the Spanish language are requested to contact MPO Staff at 956-794-1613, or via email at agulano@dlaredoikus at least two working days prior to the meeting SO that appropriate arrangements can be made. Materials in Spanish may also be provided upon request. Disability Access Statement: This meeting is wheelchair accessible. The accessible ramps are located at 1110 Victoria and 910 Flores. Accessible parking spaces are located at City Hall, 1110 Victoria. Ayuda O Servicios Auxiliares: Todas las reuniones del Comité del MPO estàn abiertas al publico. Personas que planean asistir a esta reunion y que pueden necesitar ayuda O servicios auxiliares como: interpretes para personas con discapacidad auditiva, lectores de letra grande O en Braille, O un traductor para el idioma espanol deben comunicarse con el personal del MPO al 956-794- 1613 o por correo electronico aqulano@dlaredo.kus por lo menos dos dias laborales antes de la reunion para que se puedan hacer los arreglos apropiados. Material en espanol està disponible mediante una peticion. Declaracion de Acceso a la Discapacidad: Esta reunion permite el acceso a personas en silla de ruedas. Las rampas de acceso estàn ubicadas en 1110 Victoria y 900 Flores. Los espacios de estacionamiento para discapacitados se encuentran por la calle Victoria. LAREDO & WEBB COUNTY Page 2 of3 AREA METROPOLITAN PLANNING ORGANIZATION MPO POLICY COMMITTEE MEETING AGENDA Informacion en espanol: Si usted desea esta informacion en espanol O si desea explicacion sobre el contenido, por favor llâmenos al teléfono (956) 794-1613 O comunicarse con nosotros mediante correo electronico a aquanoeclardoikus POLICY COMMITTEE MEMBERSHIP: City of Laredo Representatives: Honorable Pete Saenz, Mayor and LWCAMPO Chairperson Honorable Ruben Gutierrez, Jr., City Councilmember, District V Honorable Dr. Marte Martinez, City Councilmember, District VI County of Webb Representatives: Honorable Tano E. Tijerina, Webb County Judge and LWCAMPO Vice-Chairperson Honorable Jesse Gonzalez, Webb County Commissioner, Pct. 1 Honorable John Galo, Webb County Commissioner, Pct. 3 Laredo Mass Transit Board Representative: Honorable Vanessa Perez, City Councilmember, District VII State Representative: Mr. David M. Salazar, Jr. P.E., TXDOT District Engineer Private Sector Representative (Member at Large): Mr. Humberto "Tito" Gonzalez, Jr., P.E. Ex-Officio Representatives: Honorable Judith Zaffirini, State Senator, District 21 Honorable Richard Raymond, State Representative, District 42 Honorable Tracy O. King, State Representative, District 80 AGENDA REVIEWED: Duglion lovne Juan S. Mendive, M Jose A. Valdez, Jr. LWCAMPO Interim Director Laredo City Secretary LAREDO & WEBB COUNTY 3 of 3 AREA METROPOLITAN PLANNING ORGANIZATION Page LAREDO & WEBB COUNTY AREA METROPOLITAN PLANNING ORGANIZATION POLICY COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES May 18th, 2022 LIVE WEB LINK: EP/BrdaRSan/NE PUBLIC ACCESS CHANNEL: Spectrum TV channel 1300 I. CHAIRPERSON TO CALL MEETING TO ORDER Mayor Pete Saenz, called the meeting to order at 1:33 P.M. II. CHAIRPERSON TO CALL ROLL Graciela Briones, LWCAMPO Staff, called roll and verified a quorum existed. CM. J. Gonzalez made a motion to excuse members not present. Second: Judge Tijerina For: 5 Against: 0 Abstained: 0 Motion carried unanimously Regular members present: Honorable Pete Saenz, Mayor and LWCAMPO Chairperson Honorable Tano E. Tijerina, Webb County Judge Honorable Vanessa Perez, City Councilmember, District VII (joined the meeting at 1:36 p.m.) Honorable Jesse Gonzalez, Webb County Commissioner, Pct. 1 David M. Salazar, Jr., P.E., TxDOT District Engineer Humberto "Tito" Gonzalez, Jr., P.E., Member at Large Regular members not present: Honorable Ruben Gutierrez, Jr., City Councilmember, District V Honorable Dr. Marte A. Martinez, City Councimember, District VI Honorable John Galo, Webb County Commissioner, Pct. 3 MPO Meeting Minutes of May 18th, 2022 1 Ex-Officio members not present: Honorable Judith Zaffirini, State Senator, District 21 Honorable Richard Raymond, State Representative, District 42 Honorable Tracy O. King, State Representative, District 80 LWCAMPO Staff present: Juan Mendive, LWCAMPO Interim Director Graciela Briones, LWCAMPO Planner Julio Nino, LWCAMPO Planner Jason Hinojosa, LWCAMPO Planner Angie Quijano, LWCAMPO Administrative Assistant Others: Guillermo Cuellar, Webb County Engineering Luis Perez Garcia, Webb County Engineering Ramon Chavez, COL Engineering Department Orlando Navarro, COL Planning Department Eduardo Bernal, Transit, El Metro Roberto Rodriguez, TXDOT Jed Brown, RMA Tim Juarez, Stanley Consultants Jose Ceballos III. CITIZEN COMMENTS Speakers are required to fill out witness cards, which must be submitted to MPO Staff no later than 1:45 p.m. the day of the meeting. Speakers shall identify themselves at the microphone. Comments are limited to three (3) minutes per speaker. No more than three (3) persons will be allowed to speak on any side of an issue. Should there be more than three (3) people who wish to speak on a specific issue, they should select not more than three (3) representatives to speak on their behalf. The presiding officer may further limit public on the interest of order or time. Speakers may not transfer their minutes to any other speaker. Comments should be relevant to MPO business and delivered in a professional manner. No derogatory remarks shall be permitted. Jose Ceballos, representing Farias Development, spoke in favor of item #IV-B and stated he was in support of the River Road Planning Study. He asked for the Committee to consider moving forward with the study. IV. TEMS REQUIRING POLICY COMMITTEE ACTION: A. Approval of the minutes for the meetings held on April 20th, 2022 MPO Meeting Minutes of May 18th, 2022 2 Judge Tijerina made a motion to approve the minutes of April 20th, 2022. Second: CM. J. Gonzalez For: 5 Against: 0 Abstained: 0 Motion carried unanimously CM. Perez joined the meeting at 1:35 p.m. B. Receive public testimony and approve Resolution No. MPO 2022-05, adopting the 2023-2026 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP). Judge Tijerina made a motion to open a public hearing. Second: CM.. J. Gonzalez For: 6 Against: 0 Abstained: 0 Motion carried unanimously Mayor Saenz mentioned that this item had been presented at the previous meeting. Juan Mendive, LWCAMPO Interim Director, confirmed the item was previously presented to the Committee in draft form. He further mentioned that the final draft ofthe document was included in the packet and no public comments were received and, the Technical Committee and staff recommended approval of the item. CM. J. Gonzalez made a motion to close the public hearing and approve Resolution No. MPO 2022-05, adopting the 2023-2026 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP). Second: CM. J. Gonzalez For: 6 Against: 0 Abstained: J Motion carried unanimously C. Discussion with possible action on the Hachar-Reuthinger Road project. Mr. Humberto Gonzalez, TxDOT, provided a brief report and stated that the project was still on schedule for the August 2023 letting. He mentioned TxDOT had been in MPO Meeting Minutes of May 18th, 2022 3 coordination with the City of Laredo to provide the finali information needed for the Right- of-Way (ROW) acquisition process and construction should commence late 2023. He also said construction would take about two years. Mr. Gonzalez also stated that when TXDOT took over the project, the schematic that was provided by Dannenbaum Engineers was an add grade connection onto the west side of IH35. He stated TxDOT was building a brand-new overpass at Hachar-Reuthinger which would be elevated. TXDOT has identified the need or funding gap SO that the connection of Hachar-Reuthinger would be elevated on the west side as well. Roberto Rodriguez, TxDOT, stated the funding needed would be about approximately $6 million dollars to elevate and to match the bridge due to the recent increase of cost of materials but figures are not finalized. He stated hopefully next month they would be able to provide an update with more accurate numbers. Mr. Gonzalez further added that the original $52 million estimated provided by the engineers for this project is being reviewed by TxDOT. They have also been looking at possible modifications of the schematic and would calculate final figures that will be presented in the near future to the MPO for potential gaps that need to be secured for the project letting and for options of additional funds. Mr. David Salazar, TXDOT summarized the scope of the project and current circumstances of probable funding gaps based on the increase of cost of steel and cement. He stated the final numbers will be provided and they are considering to fund the gap with TxDOT monies. V. REPORT(S) AND PRESENTATIONS (No action required) A. Status report by the Regional Mobility Authority (RMA). Jed Brown, RMA, gave a presentation with a briefstatus update of the projects. He stated the study fori the Transportation Reinvestment Zone (TRZ) fort the Cuatro Vientos Corridor from US 59 to the proposed International Bridge 4/5 location was to commence in May 2022 and to be completed in Fall 2022. He stated the purpose of the study for the River Road Corridor was to identify the most appropriate alignment of the new location roadway from Aquero Blvd. to FM 1472 (Mines) and Future Hachar Parkway. He stated the study was anticipated to commence in June 2022, pending execution oft the Interlocal Agreement between the Laredo and Webb County MPO and the RMA. The anticipated duration of the study is 12 months. He also stated for the Vallecillo road project, the improvements listed in the North Laredo County Transportation Study were needed and would lead to benefits, especially by Vallecillo Road and Hachar Parkway. MPO Meeting Minutes of May 18th, 2022 4 B. Report on the results of the external audit of the Laredo Webb County Area Metropolitan Planning Organization performed by the TxDOT Compliance Division. Juan Mendive, Interim MPO Director gave a presentation with a report on the item. A copy of said report was included in the member's packets. He mentioned this audit was requested by the Policy Committee as a result of the transition just to make sure everything was properly functioning with the operations of the MPO and for staff to feel comfortable thought the transition of new administration. Mr. Mendive briefly provided the objective of the audit. He also stated that the overall scope of the audit included the MPO's and the City of Laredo's (fiscal agent) operations, including goods and services procured, and requests for reimbursement submitted to TxDOT between October 1, 2019, and September 30, 2021. He further mentioned that the conclusion of the audit found that the MPO and the City of Laredo, as fiscal agent, have implemented financial controls to ensure grant and loan funds are managed in accordance with applicable funding agreements. Finally, he stated that we agreed on the recommendations that we were given and we will work towards their implementation to help strengthen our processes, procedures and internal controls, especially as the MPO finalizes its restructuring. VI. DIRECTOR's COMMENTS Mr. Mendive provided the following report: 1. MPO staff attended the TXDOT Transportation Planning Conference from May 3rd. 5th. Staff attended sessions on safety, project selection and prioritization, environmental affairs, corridor planning, active transportation, among other topics. Throughout the conference, promoting a safe transportation system was emphasized as the top priority. 2. May is National Bike Month The City of Laredo and the MPO Active Transportation Committee coordinated a proclamation ceremony on May 4th, 2022 proclaiming May as National Bike Month in Laredo. 3. During the May 10th meeting, the Technical Committee had a productive discussion about potential planning studies to be programmed in the FY 2023 Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP). 4. Upcoming regularly scheduled meetings: Active Transportation Committee - May 25, 2022 Technical Committee June 7, 2022 Policy Committee - June 15, 2022 MPO Meeting Minutes of May 18th, 2022 5 VII. ADJOURNMENT Judge Tijerina made a motion to adjourn the meeting at 2:19 p.m. Second: CM. J. Gonzalez For: 6 Against: 0 Abstained: Motion carried unanimously Juan S. Mendive Pete Saenz, Mayor and LWCAMPO Interim LWCAMPO Director Chairperson MPO Meeting Minutes of May 18th, 2022 6 LAREDO WEBB COUNTY AREA MPO ACTION ITEM DATE: SUBJECT: A MOTION Receive public testimony and initiate a 20-day public review and comment period for the 06-15-22 draft 2023 Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP). INITIATED BY: STAFF SOURCE: Staff Juan S. Mendive, Interim MPO Director PREVIOUS ACTION: None BACKGROUND: The Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP) is one-year work program which describes in detail transportation planning programs and activities to be performed by the MPO in a fiscal year. The FY 2023 UPWP outlines and schedules tasks to be undertaken by the Metropolitan Planning Organization during the fiscal period. Some of the tasks outline may require more than one year to complete and are carried forward from one UPWP to the next. The final approved UPWP is due July 29, 2022. Listed below is the proposed budget: SUBTASK AMOUNT 1.1 Regional Planning and Administration. $ 550,000.00 1.2 Travel, training, equipment, furnishings, and supplies. $ 50,000.00 2.1 General Data Administration. $ 50,000.00 3.1 General Administration. $ 5,000.00 3.2 Planning Assistance. $ 15,000.00 4.1 2020-2045 Laredo Metropolitan Transportation Plan (MTP). $ 25,000.00 4.2 Preparation for the 2025-2050 MTP Update. $ 100,000.00 5.1 Long Range Freight Mobility Plan. $ 100,000.00 5.2 Downtown Railroad Grade Separation Feasibility Study. $ 75,000.00 5.3 Sidewalk Gap Analysis. $ 50,000.00 5.4 Bus Rapid Transit Study. $ 200,000.00 5.5 Resiliency Study. $ 50,000.00 5.6 Participation in River Road Corridor Study. $ 125,000.00 TOTAL $ 1,395,000.00 The total estimated Transportation Planning Funds (TPF) that will be available for FY 2023 is $2,289,134. This consists of an estimated $562,039 TPF estimated to be awarded in FY 2023 based on authorizations from previous years and an estimated unexpended carryover of $1,727,095 from FY 2022. At total of $1,395,000 in TPF is proposed to be programmed in FY 2023. COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION: STAFF RECOMMENDATION: The LWCAMPO Technical Committee recommends approval. Approval FY 2023 UNIFIED PLANNING WORK PROGRAM (UPWP) 2 DRAFT 2 LAREDO & WEBB COUNTY AREA METROPOLITAN PLANNING ORGANIZATION Transportation Management Area (TMA) AIR QUALITY STATUS: Attainment The preparation of this report has been financed in part through grant(s) from the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and Federal Transit Administration (FTA), U.S. Department of Transportation, under the State Planning and Research Program, Section 505 [or Metropolitan Planning Program, Section 104(f)] of Title 23, U.S. Code. The contents of this report do not necessarily reflect the official views or policy of the U.S. Department of Transportation. Approved by the Policy Committee on: Revised: Federal Approval: Revised: LWCAMPO 1413 Houston St. Laredo, TX. 78040 (956) 794-1613 tp/wlardompoory TABLE OF CONTENTS I. INTRODUCTION. 1 A. PURPOSE 1 B. DEFINITION OF AREA. 4 C. ORGANIZATION. 4 D. PRIVATE SECTOR INVOLVEMENT 5 E. PLANNING ISSUES AND EMPHASIS 5 Planning Issues 5 Previous Emphasis Areas. 6 2021 Planning Emphasis Areas. 7 II. TASK 1.0 = ADMINISTRATION & MANAGEMENT 12 A. OBJECTIVE. 12 B. EXPECTED PRODUCTS 12 C. PREVIOUS WORK 12 D. SUBTASKS 13 SUBTASK 1.1 - Regional Planning and Administration. 13 SUBTASK 1.2 - Travel, training, equipment, furnishings, and supplies. 14 E. FUNDING & PARTICIPATION SUMMARY. 14 III. TASK 2.0 - DATA DEVELOPMENT AND MAINTENANCE 14 A. OBJECTIVE. 14 B. EXPECTED PRODUCTS 14 C. PREVIOUS WORK 15 D. SUBTASKS 15 SUBTASK 2.1 - General Data Administration. 15 E. FUNDING & PARTICIPATION SUMMARY. 15 IV. TASK 3.0 - SHORT RANGE PLANNING 16 A. OBJECTIVE. 16 B. EXPECTED PRODUCTS 16 C. PREVIOUS WORK 16 D. SUBTASKS 16 SUBTASK 3.1- General Administration. 16 SUBTASK 3.2- Planning Assistance. 16 E. FUNDING & PARTICIPATION SUMMARY. 17 V. TASK 4.0 - METROPOLITAN TRANSPORTATION PLAN / LONG RANGE PLAN 17 A. OBJECTIVE. 17 B. EXPECTED PRODUCTS 17 C. PREVIOUS WORK 17 D. SUBTASKS 17 SUBTASK 4.1 - 2020-2045 Laredo Metropolitan Transportation Plan (MTP). 17 SUBTASK 4.2 Preparation for the 2025-2050 MTP Update. 18 E. FUNDING & PARTICIPATION SUMMARY, 18 VI. TASK 5.0 - SPECIAL STUDIES 18 A. OBJECTIVE. 18 B. EXPECTED PRODUCTS 18 C. PREVIOUS WORK 18 D. SUBTASKS 19 SUBTASK 5.1 - Long Range Freight Mobility Plan.. 19 SUBTASK 5.2 - Downtown Railroad Grade Separation Feasibility Study. 19 SUBTASK 5.3 - Sidewalk Gap Analysis. 19 SUBTASK 5.4 - Bus Rapid Transit Study. 19 SUBTASK 5.5 - Resiliency Study. 20 SUBTASK 5.6 - Participation in River Road Corridor Study. 20 E. FUNDING & PARTICIPATION SUMMARY. 20 VII. APPENDICES. 22 APPENDIX A. 22 POLICY COMMITTEE MEMBERSHIP, 22 TECHNICAL COMMITTEE MEMBERSHIP 22 MPO STAFF 22 APPENDIX B. 23 METROPOLITAN AREA BOUNDARY MAP 23 APPENDIX C. 24 DEBARMENT CERTIFICATION 24 APPENDIX D. 25 LOBBYING CERTIFICATION. 25 APPENDIX E. 26 CERTIFICATION OF COMPLIANCE 26 APPENDIX F. 27 CERTIFICATION OF INTERNAL ETHICS AND COMPLIANCE PROGRAM 27 ii I. INTRODUCTION The Federal Aid Highway Act of 1962 promulgated the requirement that all urban areas of 50,000 or more population develop and maintain a comprehensive, cooperative, and continuing (3-C) transportation planning process. The process would establish a transportation plan and provide the procedure by which it would be maintained and revised on a continuing basis. In July 1979, the Governor of Texas designated Laredo Urban Transportation Study (LUTS) Steering Committee as the MPO for the Laredo urbanized area. In February 2020, The Policy Committee approved the amendment of the MPO Bylaws to change the name of the MPO from Laredo Urban Transportation Study (LUTS) to the Laredo Webb County Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (LWCAMPO). A. PURPOSE The Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP) is the instrument that serves as the document for coordinating and identifying ways to carry out the continuing, cooperative and comprehensive transportation planning process for Laredo, Texas and portions of Webb County. An MPO is required to perform all planning tasks set forth in federal laws and regulations, many of which are conducted annually. This UPWP is a one-year transportation planning work program which describes in detail transportation planning programs, and activities to be performed in LWCAMPO for the FY 2023. However, some tasks require more than one year to complete and are carried forward from one UPWP to the next. To effectively identify all work tasks, the Laredo MPO prepares this UPWP with input from federal, state and local jurisdictions, and transportation providers in the region. The MPO's Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP) will comply with all applicable federal and state regulations. Several transportation bills have been implemented in the past. These include the following: ISTEA-The Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act of 1991, which emphasized the efficiency of the intermodal transportation system. TEA-21-The Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century, signed by the President in 1998, builds on the initiatives established in ISTEA with a particular focus on equity through access, opportunity, and fairness. SAFETEA-LU-The Safe, Accountable, Flexible, Efficient Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users, was enacted in 2005 authorizing the Federal surface transportation programs for highways, highway safety, and transit for the 5-year period 2005-2009. MAP-21-The Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century Act, was enacted in 2012 and created a streamlined and performance-based surface transportation program and builds on many of the highway, transit, bike, and pedestrian programs and policies established in 1991. FAST Act-The Fixing America's Surface Transportation Act, was passed in 2015 covering a 5- year period and was the first Federal law in over ten years to provide long-term funding certainty for surface transportation (for fiscal years 2016 through 2020). The FAST Act continues the Metropolitan Planning Program and authorizes $305 billion for the Department's highway, highway and motor vehicle safety, public transportation, motor carrier safety, nazardous materials safety, rail, and research, technology and statistics programs. FY2023 UPWP LAREDO WEBB COUNTY AREA MPO PAGE 1 FAST Act Planning Factors FAST Act contains ten (10) planning factors that should be considered when developing plans and programs. The work tasks contained in this UPWP have considered the following areas, some more directly than others: 1. Support the economic vitality of the metropolitan area, especially by enabling global competitiveness, productivity, and efficiency; 2. Increase the safety of the transportation system for motorized and non-motorized users; 3. Increase the security of the transportation system for motorized and non-motorized users; 4. Increase accessibility and mobility of people and freight; 5. Protect and enhance the environment, promote energy conservation, improve the quality of life, and promote consistency between transportation improvements and State and local planned growth and economic development patterns; 6. Enhance the integration and connectivity of the transportation system, across and between modes, for people and freight; 7. Promote efficient system management and operation; 8. Emphasize the preservation of the existing transportation system; 9. Improve the resiliency and reliability of the transportation system and reduce or mitigate storm water impacts of surface transportation; and 10. Enhance travel and tourism. Further, the work tasks consider the federal performance goals (23 USC S 150.b) in the following seven areas: 1. Safety: achieve a significant reduction in traffic fatalities and serious injuries on all public roads. 2. Infrastructure Condition: maintain the highway infrastructure asset system in a state of good repair. 3. Congestion Reduction: achieve a significant reduction in congestion on the National Highway System. 4. System Reliability: improve the efficiency of the surface transportation system. 5. Freight Movement and Economic Vitality: Improve the national freight network, strengthen the ability of rural communities to access national and international trade markets, and support regional economic development. 6. Environmental Sustainability: enhance the performance of the transportation system while protecting and enhancing the natural environment. 7. Reduced Project Delivery Delays: reduce project costs, promote jobs and he economy, and expedite the movement of people and goods by accelerating project completion through eliminating delays in the project development and delivery process, including reducing regulatory burdens and improving agency work practices. FY2023 UPWP LAREDO WEBB COUNTY AREA MPO PAGE 2 Performance Management MAP-21 instituted Performance Management to provide greater accountability and transparence and help achieve the most efficient and effective investment of transportation resources. The FAST Act continued MAP-21's overall performance management approach, within which States invest resources in projects that collectively will make progress toward national goals. The U.S. Secretary of Transportation in consultation with stakeholders establishes performance measures to chart progress toward accomplishment of national goals established in MAP-21: safety, infrastructure condition, interstate system condition, congestion reduction, system reliability, freight movement and economic vitality, environmental sustainability, and reduced project delivery delays. Performance targets established by the State and MPO will be based on national performance measures and will improve decision making through performance- based planning and programming. The FAST Act adjusts the timeframe for States and metropolitan planning organizations to make progress toward meeting their performance targets under the National Highway Performance Program and clarifies the significant progress timeline for the Highway Safety Improvement Program performance targets. The MPO believes in the proactive involvement of citizens, affected public agencies, representatives of transportation agencies, private providers of transportation, and other interested parties in the development and updates of transportation plans and programs. The Laredo MPO has a Public Participation Plan (PPP) intended to provide an opportunity for meaningful, active, ongoing public participation and involvement for citizens, groups, agencies, and public providers of transportation. The Laredo MPO conducts all planning activities in accordance with the adopted (PPP). The MPO continues to engage interested parties during the development of the Public Participation Plan (PPP), and the short-term and long-term transportation plans. Per 23 CFR 450.316, interested parties such as those listed below, shall have reasonable opportunities to comment on projects of the short-term and long-term transportation plans: Affected public agencies Freight shippers Private providers of transportation services Representatives of public transportation employees Representatives of the disabled Representatives of users of public transportation Representatives of users of pedestrian walkways and bicycle transportation facilities Other interested parties The MPO continues to consult and cooperate with federal, state, and local agencies and tribal nations responsible for land use, natural resources, and other environmental issues during the adoption of long and short-term plans. The MPO consults with agencies responsible for historic preservation, natural resource conservation, environmental protection, and land use management, as appropriate, in the development of the short and long-term transportation plans. FY2023 UPWP LAREDO WEBB COUNTY AREA MPO PAGE 3 B. DEFINITION OF AREA The Laredo Metropolitan Area Boundary (MAB) includes the City of Laredo and portions of Webb County. (See Map, Appendix B.) The MAB was approved by the Governor in 2004. The Laredo urbanized area (as determined by the 2010 Census) surpassed 200,000 in population and was designated a Transportation Management Area (TMA) effective July 18th, 2012. C. ORGANIZATION The Laredo Webb County Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (LWCAMPO) is governed by the Policy Committee established in accordance with adopted MPO Bylaws. The Policy Committee is the MPO body that holds review and decision-making authority over transportation planning efforts undertaken by the MPO. The Committee is chaired by the Mayor of the City of Laredo and includes as voting members: three members from the City of Laredo, City Council (including two members representing the City of Laredo, and one Councilman representing the Laredo Mass Transit Board), the Laredo TxDOT District Engineer, the Webb County Judge, two Webb County Commissioners, and one Member at Large. The State Senator for District 21, the State Representative for District 80 and the State Representative for District 42 serve as non-voting, ex-officio members. The MPO Technical Committee responsibilities include professional and technical review of work programs, policy recommendations and transportation planning activities. A list of the Technical Committee and Policy Committee Membership is provided in Appendix A. The Title VI/EJ Working Group is comprised of 9 members, including representatives of the City of Laredo, the MPO, TxDOT, transit and the County Planning Department. The Group's purpose isto assist the MPO in improving data collection, monitoring and analysis to ensure that transportation related programs and policies do not have a disproportionately high and adverse human health or environmental effects on minority and low-income populations. The City of Laredo staff providing service and support to the MPO inçlude: the Director, 3 planners, an administrative secretary, and administrative assistant, an accountant and others as may be required. Metropolitan Planning Organization The Laredo Webb County Area MPO, in cooperation with the TxDOT, Webb County/City of Laredo Regional Mobility Authority (WC-CL RMA), mass transit operators, planning agencies and local governments is responsible for carrying out and maintaining the urban transportation planning process to include: 1. Cooperative decision-making, principally, by elected officials of local governments. 2. Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP), 3. Transportation Improvement Program (TIP), 4. Metropolitan Transportation Plan (MTP), and 5. Congestion Management Process (CMP). The MPO also executes contracts and/or agreements necessary to carry out the work outlined in the UPWP. In addition, the MPO develops and maintains transportation databases and analytical tools. FY2023 UPWP LAREDO WEBB COUNTY AREA MPO PAGE 4 MPO staff has the following general responsibilities: 1. Provide staff support to the Policy Committee, the Technical Committee, and sub-committees; 2. Review and report on items on the agenda(s) for the Policy committee, the Technical Committee, and other appropriate committees; 3. Coordinate and perform the planning and data collection activities contained in the UPWP; 4. Prepare and submit an annual budget outlined in the UPWP for approval; 5. Receive and review all bills from consultants that the MPO has contracted with to perform work outlined in the UPWP; 6. Submit requests for reimbursement to the appropriate federal and/or state agencies for work performed according to the UPWP; 7. Prepare and submit grant applications for federal/other assistance in transportation planning, and related fields, as appropriate; 8. Prepare and submit the annual performance and expenditure report and annual project listing; 9. Coordinate the activities for the development and maintenance of the Unified Planning Work Program, the long-range metropolitan transportation plan and the Transportation Improvement Program; 10. Refine and maintain a process for engaging the public in the transportation planning process; 11. Perform any other administrative duties as required by the Policy Committee; and, 12. Ensure compliance with Title VI Civil Rights, Environmental Justice and other federal requirements related to the MPO's operations, activities and programs. D. PRIVATE SECTOR INVOLVEMENT The private sector is encouraged to participate in the development of all transportation programs and plans including the TIP and MTP development. Staff also maintains and periodically updates a list of consultant firms that provide transportation planning services. E. PLANNING ISSUES AND EMPHASIS Planning Issues Roadways and Livability - System capacity issues will pose a major challenge in light of expected population and freight movement growth levels. However, while investments are made in transportation infrastructure, the safety and livability of communities in the Laredo MPO should be considered. Population - The City of Laredo is the third most populated U.S. city on the U.S.-Mexico border. The city has a population of over 250,000. The cross-border Laredo-Nuevo Laredo Metropolitan Area has an estimated population of over 650,000. Based upon the most recently developed estimates, the population is expected to grow by more than 50 percent between the years 2018 and 2045, with an estimated population of approximately 419,000 people. The number of jobs in the Laredo MPO region are also expected to grow by more than 50 percent over the next 25 years. Growth in the past has been accommodated mainly thorough sprawl. The City of Laredo recognizes that for many reasons this type of growth is unsustainable. In order to plan for future growth in the region-a considerable share of which is expected to occur through infill and redevelopment-a more efficient allocation of transportation resources should be considered. There is an increased desire for multi-modal transportation alternatives, but facilities for walking, biking, and other options are lacking. FY2023 UPWP LAREDO WEBB COUNTY AREA MPO PAGE 5 Table 2-6 from the current MTP: Laredo MPO Employment Forecasts. Forecast Year Forecast Employment 2018 105,267 2030 133,613 2040 166,083 2045 180,099 Source: TxDOT-TPP. 2008 Validated Travel Demand Model Freight - Recent projections indicate that the trade values of all outbound, inbound or internal types of freight movement are projected to be more than double than the current levels. Said growth will continue to add capacity burdens on the network. Transit - Key issues facing the transit system in the upcoming years include: more customers, more service needs, and less funding. More customers - Population projections show a growing transit dependent population, especially in growth areas in south Laredo. More service needs - The Comprehensive Operational Analysis (COA) of El Metro final report from December 2021, provided a great opportunity to understand the challenges facing El Metro today and developed recommendations to improve the system's service, efficiency, and effectiveness and prepare Laredo for a bright future. In light of all of the above, careful and effective transportation planning and investment will be critical to providing for the area's future transportation needs while balancing the livability of communities. Previous Emphasis Areas The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and Federal Transit Administration (FTA) in a memorandum to Metropolitan Planning Organizations, dated March 18, 2015, jointly issued Planning and Emphasis Areas (PEAs). The PEAS are topical areas in planning that FHWA and FTA want to emphasize as MPOS develop work task associated with PEAS in the UPWP. The PEAS include: MAP-21 Implementation - Transition to Performance Based Planning and Programming. Performance based planning and programming includes using transportation performance measures, setting targets, reporting performance, and programming transportation investments directed toward the achievement of transportation system performance outcomes. Relevant UPWP work tasks include working with local planning partners to identify ways to implement performance-based planning provisions such as collecting performance data, selecting and reporting performance targets for metropolitan areas, and reporting actual system performance related to those targets. The Laredo MPO uses scenario planning through the Travel Demand Model process to develop the Laredo Metropolitan Transportation Plan. Regional Models of Cooperation - Ensure a Regional Approach to Transportation Planning by Promoting Cooperation and Coordination across Transit Agency, MPO, and State Boundaries. The Laredo MPO will continue to work with its planning partners to improve the effectiveness FY2023 UPWP LAREDO WEBB COUNTY AREA MPO PAGE 6 of transportation decision-making by thinking beyond traditional borders and adopting a coordinated approach to transportation planning. A coordinated approach supports common goals and capitalizes on opportunities related to project delivery, congestion management, safety, freight, livability, and commerce across boundaries. Improved mult-jurisdictional coordination between the Laredo MPO, TxDOT, El Metro, area providers of public transportation, and the Regional Mobility Authority (RMA) can reduce project delivery times and enhance the efficient use of resources. The Laredo MPO will periodically revisit its metropolitan area planning agreements to ensure that there are effective processes for cross- jurisdictional communication between TxDOT, the Laredo MPO and local area transit providers to improve collaboration, policy implementation, technology use, and performance management. Ladders of Opportunity - Access to essential services. The Laredo MPO will continue to work with TxDOT, and the local area transit providers, as part oft the transportation planning process to identify transportation connectivity gaps in accessing essential services. Essential services include employment, health care, school/education, and recreation. At the request of the local transit provider, the Laredo MPO UPWP routinely includes the development of transit related studies, including the development of a five-year plan, a bus/rapid transit feasibility study, and a paratransit and Americans with Disability Act compliance study. The Laredo MPO will also periodically evaluate the effectiveness of its public participation plan (PPP) for engaging transportation-disadvantaged communities in the transportation decision making process. The Laredo MPO also works with its planning partners to assess the need and availability of pedestrian and bicycle facilities in the study area. Furthermore, through the Active Transportation Committee, the MPO will continue working on the implementation of the recommendations provided by the Active Transportation Plan. 2021 Planning Emphasis Areas Tackling the Climate Crisis - Transition to a Clean Energy, Resilient Future Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) divisions and Federal Transit Administration (FTA) regional offices should work with State departments of transportation (State DOT), metropolitan planning organizations (MPO), and providers of public transportation to ensure that our transportation plans and infrastructure investments help achieve the national greenhouse gas reduction goals of 50-52 percent below 2005 levels by 2030, and net-zero emissions by 2050, and increase resilience to extreme weather events and other disasters resulting from the increasing effects of climate change. Field offices should encourage State DOTS and MPOS to use the transportation planning process to accelerate the transition toward electric and other alternative fueled vehicles, plan for a sustainable infrastructure system that works for all users, and undertake actions to prepare for and adapt to the impacts of climate change. Appropriate Unified Planning Work Program work tasks could include identifying the barriers to and opportunities for deployment of fueling and charging infrastructure; evaluating opportunities to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by reducing single-occupancy vehicle trips and increasing access to public transportation, shift to lower emission modes of transportation; and identifying transportation system vulnerabilities to climate change impacts and evaluating potential solutions. FY2023 UPWP LAREDO WEBB COUNTY AREA MPO PAGE 7 LWCAMPO has programmed a resiliency study as part of this UPWP. Additionally, the MPO will seek ways to contribute towards this emphasis area through its planning activities and work efforts of the MPO's Active Transportation Committee. The MPO is committed to enhancing safe, accessible, and alternative modes oftransportation in the region. Equity and Justice40 in Transportation Planning FHWA Division and FTA regional offices should work with State DOTS, MPOs, and providers of public transportation to advance racial equity and support for underserved and disadvantaged communities. This will help ensure public involvement in the planning process and that plans and strategies reflect various perspectives, concerns, and priorities from impacted areas. We encourage the use of strategies that: (1) improve infrastructure for non-motorized travel, public transportation access, and increased public transportation service in underserved communities; (2) plan for the safety of all road users, particularly those on arterials, through infrastructure improvements and advanced speed management; (3) reduce single-occupancy vehicle travel and associated air pollution in communities near high-volume corridors; (4) offer reduced public transportation fares as appropriate; (5) target demand-response service towards communities with higher concentrations of older adults and those with poor access to essential services; and (6) consider equitable and sustainable practices while developing transit-oriented development including affordable housing strategies and consideration of environmental justice populations. Executive Order 13985 (Advancing Racial Equity and Support for Underserved Communities) defines the term "equity" as the consistent and systematic fair, just, and impartial treatment of all individuals, including individuals who belong to underserved communities that have been denied such treatment, such as Black, Latino, and Indigenous and Native American persons, Asian Americans and Pacific slanders and other persons of color; members of religious minorities; lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ+) persons; persons with disabilities; persons who live in rural areas; and persons otherwise adversely affected by persistent poverty or inequality. The term "underserved communities" refers to populations sharing a particular characteristic, as well as geographic communities, that have been systematically denied a full opportunity to participate in aspects of economic, social, and civic life, as exemplified by the list in the preceding definition of "equity." In addition, Executive Order 14008 and M-21-28 provides a wnole-orgovernment approach to advancing environmental justice by stating that 40 percent of Federal investments flow to disadvantaged communities. FHWA Division and FTA regional offices should work with State DOTS, MPOS, and providers of public transportation to review current and new metropolitan transportation plans to advance Federal investments to disadvantaged communities. To accomplish both initiatives, joint planning processes should support State and MPO goals for economic opportunity in disadvantaged communities that have been historically marginalized and overburdened by pollution and underinvestment in housing, transportation, water and wastewater infrastructure, recreation, and health care. LWCAMPO is currently in the process of updating its Public Participation Plan, Limited English Proficiency Plan, and Title VI Plan. These plans will help set the foundation for equitable planning practices. A goal of LWCAMPO is to enhance its data development efforts. Through enhanced data we FY2023 UPWP LAREDO WEBB COUNTY AREA MPO PAGE 8 can better understand and analyze the needs of undeserved communities, and develop plans that will create opportunities in disadvantaged communities. Complete Streets FHWA Division and FTA regional offices should work with State DOTS, MPOS and providers of public transportation to review current policies, rules, and procedures to determine their impact on safety for all road users. This effort should work to include provisions for safety in future transportation infrastructure, particularly those outside automobiles. A complete street is safe, and feels safe, for everyone using the street. FHWA and FTA seek to help Federal aid recipients plan, develop, and operate streets and networks that prioritize safety, comfort, and access to destinations for people who use the street network, including pedestrians, bicyclists, transit riders, micro-mobility users, freight delivery serviçes, and motorists. The goal is to provide an equitable and safe transportation network for travelers of all ages and abilities, including those from marginalized communities facing historic disinvestment. This vision is not achieved through a one-size- fits-all solution - each complete street is unique and developed to best serve its community context and its primary role in the network. Per the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's 2019 data, 62 percent of the motor vehicle crashes that resulted in pedestrian fatalities took place on arterials. Arterials tend to be designed for vehicle movement rather than mobility for non-motorized users and often lack convenient and safe crossing opportunities. They can function as barriers to a safe travel network for road users outside of vehicles. To be considered complete, these roads should include safe pedestrian facilities, safe transit stops (if present), and safe crossing opportunities on an interval necessary for accessing destinations. A safe and complete network for bicycles can also be achieved through a safe and comfortable bicycle facility located on the roadway, adjacent to the road, or on a nearby parallel corridor. Jurisdictions will be encouraged to prioritize safety improvements and speed management on arterials that are essential to creating complete travel networks for those without access to single-occupancy vehicles. LWCAMPO is committed to enhancing safe, accessible, and alternative modes of transportation in the region. The MPO's Active Transportation Plan adopted by the City of Laredo in February 2021 includes a chapter dedicated to Complete Streets. The chapter outlines a set of recommendations and a sample Complete Streets policy to assist with implanting safe roads for all users. The MPO's Active Transportation Committee have also discussed the need to implement a Complete Streets Policy at the local level and are exploring the development of a Complete Streets Policy for the MPO. LWCAMPO along with its partners will continue to find ways to promote safety. for all street users and to plan an equitable and safe transportation network for all ages and abilities. Public Involvement Early, effective, and continuous public involvement brings diverse viewpoints into the decision-making process. FHWA Division and FTA regional offices should encourage MPOS, State DOTS, and providers of public transportation to increase meaningful public involvement in transportation planning by integrating Virtual Public Involvement (VPI) tools into the overall public involvement approach while FY2023 UPWP LAREDO WEBB COUNTY AREA MPO PAGE 9 ensuring continued public participation by individuals without access to computers and mobile devices. The use of VPI broadens the reach of information to the public and makes participation more convenient and affordable to greater numbers of people. Virtual tools provide increased transparency and access to transportation planning activities and decision-making processes. Many virtualt tools also provide information in visual and interactive formats that enhance public and stakeholder understanding of proposed plans, programs, and projects. Increasing participation earlier in the process can reduce project delays and lower staff time and costs. LWCAMPO is currently in the process of updating its Public Participation Plan (PPP). As part of the plan a set of outreach strategies are recommended, including virtual tools. Once the updated Public Participation Plan (PPP) is implemented, LWCAMPO seeks to create a Title VI/Public Outreach Subcommittee. LWCAMPO will also continue to use its website and social media accounts to provide information of meetings and public comment opportunities and meaningfully engage with the public and its stakeholders. Additionally, the MPO will evaluate its PPP and outreach strategies using measures of effectiveness and will update the PPP and strategies as necessary to ensure that all people in the community are able to participate and provided opportunities to be meaningfully involved in the decision-making processes, including individuals without access to the internet or computers and mobile devices. Strategic Highway Network STRAHNET)/U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) Coordination. FHWA Division and FTA regional offices should encourage MPOS and State DOTS to coordinate with representatives from DOD in the transportation planning and project programming process on infrastructure and connectivity needs for STRAHNET routes and other public roads that connect to DOD facilities. According to the Declaration of Policy in 23 U.S.C. 101(b)(1), iti is in the national interest to accelerate construction of the Federal-aid highway system, including the Dwight D. Eisenhower National System of Interstate and Defense Highways, because many of the highways (or portions of the highways) are inadequate to meet the needs of national and civil defense. The DOD's facilities include military bases, ports, and depots. The road networks that provide access and connections to these facilities are essential to national security. The 64,200-mile STRAHNET system consists of public highways that provide access, continuity, and emergency transportation of personnel and equipment in times of peace and war. It includes the entire 48,482 miles of the Dwight D. Eisenhower National System of Interstate and Defense Highways and 14,000 miles of other non-Interstate public highways on the National Highway System. The STRAHNET also contains approximately 1,800 miles of connector routes linking more than 200 military installations and ports to the primary highway system. The DOD's facilities are also often major employers in a region, generating substantial volumes of commuter and freight traffic on the transportation network and around entry points to the military facilities. As recommended by FHWA and FTA, the STRAHNET maps and recent Power Project Platform studies can be a useful resource in the MPO areas covered by these route analyses. LWCAMPO will review these maps and studies and will incorporate them as necessary in its planning activities. Federal Land Management Agency (FLMA) Coordination. FHWA Division and FTA regional offices should encourage MPOS and State DOTS to coordinate with FLMAS in the transportation planning and project programming process on infrastructure and connectivity needs related to access routes and other public roads and transportation services that FY2023 UPWP LAREDO WEBB COUNTY AREA MPO PAGE 10 connect to Federal lands. Through joint coordination, the State DOTS, MPOS, Tribal Governments, FLMAS, and local agencies should focus on integration of their transportation planning activities and develop cross-cutting State and MPO long range transportation plans, programs, and corridor studies, as well as the Office of Federal Lands Highway's developed transportation plans and programs. Agencies should explore opportunities to leverage transportation funding to support access and transportation needs of FLMAS before transportation projects are programmed in the Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) and Statewide Transportation Improvement Program (STIP). Each State must consider the concerns of FLMAS that have jurisdiction over land within the boundaries of the State (23 CFR 450.208(a)(3). MPOS must appropriately involve FLMAS in the development of the metropolitan transportation plan and the TIP (23 CFR 450.316(d)). Additionally, the Tribal Transportation Program, Federal Lands Transportation Program, and the Federal Lands Access Program TIPS must be included in the STIP,directly or byreference,: after FHWA approval in accordance with 23 U.S.C. 201(c) (23 CFR 450.218(e)). LWCAMPO will coordinate with FMLAS in the transportation planning and project programming process when applicable. Additionally, LWCAMPO will stay up to date on information provided by the Office of Federal Lands Highway including its plans and programs. Planning and Environment Linkages (PEL) FHWA Division and FTA regional offices should encourage State DOTS, MPOS and Public Transportation Agencies to implement PEL as part of the transportation planning and environmental review processes. The use of PELis a collaborative and integrated approach to transportation decision-making that considers environmental, community, and economic goals early in the transportation planning process, and uses the information, analysis, and products developed during planning to inform the environmental review process. PEL leads to interagency relationship building among planning, resource, and regulatory agencies in the early stages of planning to inform and improve project delivery timeframes, including minimizing duplication and creating one cohesive flow of information. This results in transportation programs and projects that serve the community's transportation needs more effectively while avoiding and minimizing the impacts on human and natural resources. LWCAMPO will work with its Technical Committee and partners such as TxDOT to identify opportunities to implement PEL as part of the transportation planning and environmenta. review processes. Additionally, the MPO will seek training opportunities related to PEL to learn more about this approach and how to incorporate it in our planning process. Data in Transportation Planning. To address the emerging topic areas of data sharing, needs, and analytics, FHWA Division and FTA regional offices should encourage State DOTS, MPOs, and providers of public transportation to incorporate data sharing and consideration into the transportation planning process, because data assets have value across multiple programs. Data sharing principles and data management can be used for a variety of issues, such as freight, bike and pedestrian planning, equity analyses, managing curb space, performance management, travel time reliability, connected and autonomous vehicles, mobility services, and safety. Developing and advancing data sharing principles allows for efficient use of resources and improved policy and decision-making at the State, MPO, regional, and local levels for all parties. FY2023 UPWP LAREDO WEBB COUNTY AREA MPO PAGE 11 A goal of LWCAMPO is to enhance its data development efforts and serve as the central hub for data sharing. As we continue to build our data sharing partnerships and agreements with regional stakeholders, we will begin identifying the key datasets that will enhance our transportation planning activities. Recently the MPO has been working closely with its partners such as the local school districts to discuss data sharing opportunities. LWCAMPO will continue to add maps, including interactive maps to its website, which will allow the public and stakeholders to download data that is free, accessible, and user friendly. The MPO will work on developing a framework and set of standards for how data will be generated and how it will be distributed. II. TASK 1.0 = ADMINISTRATION & MANAGEMENT A. OBJECTIVE To accomplish, on a continuing basis, the plans and programs necessary to administer Federal transportation planning requirements and maintain the "3-C" transportation planning process in and for the Laredo and Webb County Metropolitan Organization's planning area. B. EXPECTED PRODUCTS The operation of the Metropolitan Planning Organization including the following: 1. Administration of the LWCAMPO to include the updating of existing or the completion of new plans, studies, and reports. 2. Fulfillment of planning objectives. 3. Supply/Equipment purchases 4. Compliance with state and federal requirements. 5. Maintenance, updates and dissemination of the Public Participation Plan (PPP) and Title VI Program and Environmental Justice (EJ) material(s). 6. Continuation of a proactive public involvement process. 7. Maintenance of LWCAMPO Website and Social Media. C. PREVIOUS WORK Staff performed general administrative functions for the operation of the Organization to include the coordination of public meetings as required by FHWA, FTA, the State and local government in the development of transportation planning documents, and reports. Both, the Technical and Policy Committee meetings were held on an ongoing basis to make appropriate revisions to documents and approve programs including the maintenance of the PPP, development of the UPWP, updated of the TIP, Title VI Civil Rights, Environmental Justice, and Limited English Proficiency Plans, professional development training, Planning agreement revision and, as well as the implementation of the Bylaw/policy amendments. Staff attended several meetings, workshops and conferences such as the Texas American Planning Association Conference, the Inner-City Housing Summit, the TXDOT Transportation Planning Conference and other workshops. Staff made several presentations at public meetings. Staff updated and implemented policies to maintain the "3-C" Planning Process. Due to health concerns resulting from the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, some Committee meetings were held in virtual format for the first half of the 2021 fiscal year. Outreach materials were revised to make the public aware of the change in format, and gave direction on how to view the meetings, participate and/or FY2023 UPWP LAREDO WEBB COUNTY AREA MPO PAGE 12 send in comments. A phone number was also posted during the meetings to allow public phone-in participation. In person Policy Committee meetings were resumed in June of 2021. In person Technical Committee meetings resumed in September of 2021. Active Transportation Committee meetings continued to be held virtually. Staff prepared all materials and coordinated 11 Policy Committee meetings, 11 Technical Committee meetings, 1 MPO Joint Workshop, and 7 Active Transportation Committee meetings to discuss and coordinate work efforts in fiscal year 2021. To date in fiscal year 2022, LWCAMPO has held 9 Policy Committee meetings, 9 Technical Committee meetings, and 7 Active Transportation Committee meetings. D. SUBTASKS SUBTASK 1.1 - Regional Planning and Administration. This includes program administration, record keeping, and monitoring completion of UPWP projects, audit, preparation of reports, interagency coordination, facilitating citizen participation, and preparation of meeting minutes. In addition, staff will be hired, trained, and developed to complete regional plans, studies, and reports. (Routine work effort = carried over from previous year). In previous years, the MPO staff consisted of only one planner and one administrative assistant, which limited their role to administration and primarily utilize consultants for all other planning activities. The MPO has increased the number of employees by hiring 2 additional Planners and has utilized City of Laredo staffto temporarily fulfill the role of unfilled positions. Throughout these additions, the MPO has accomplished all the required administrative duties as well as significant cost savings and time reductions (over hiring consultants). This has also led to better planning outcomes where expertise is maintained in-house such as the maintenance and update of the MPO's website, the implementation of the Active Transportation Plan recommendations and the continued participation of the Active Transportation Committee. The MPO has been undergoing a process review as part of efforts to create a full-time Director position for the MPO. Previously, the City of Laredo (Fiscal Agent) Planning Director served as the half-time Director to the MPO. An Interim Director was appointed byt the Policy Committee in May 2021. The MPO Bylaws were officially changed in September 2021 to create a full-time MPO Transportation Planning Director. As part of the process review, the MPO has been working with Texas A&M Transportation Institute (TTI), TxDOT, and the Fiscal Agent to coordinate changes to the existing Planning Agreement. These efforts will result in the hiring of a full-time permanent MPO Transportation Planning Director. The organizational chart has been updated in the FY 2022 UPWP to reflect current and proposed staff changes. As of the end of FY 2021, the MPO staff team consisted of a staff ofe 6, which includes an Interim Director, 3 Transportation Planners, 1 Administrative Assistant, and 1 Administrative Secretary. MPO DIRECTOR PLANNER PLANNER PLANNER ADMINISTRATIVE ADMINISTRATIVE (Short Range) (Long Range) (G.1.S.) ASSISTANT SECRETARY FY2023 UPWP LAREDO WEBB COUNTY AREA MPO PAGE 13 The MPO may continue utilizing City of Laredo staff or to enter into contracts for private consultants in an effort to reach the goals of the MPO. For fiscal year 2023, the MPO will consider the possibility of issuing an RFP to select one or more General Planning Consultant(s) for on-call services to support the MPOs technical activities and tasks outlined in this UPWP. SUBTASK 1.2 - Travel, training, equipment, furnishings, and supplies. This activity supports staff development in the technical activities associated with the transportation planning process through travel to and attendance at appropriate conferences, courses, seminars, and workshops. This activity includes all equipment, furnishings, and supplies needed by personnel filling MPO staff roles. All computer hardware, software, and equipment expenditures of Federal Planning funds over $5,000 will receive prior approval from FHWA. The MPO intends to register planning staff for the Texas APA Conference in October 2022. The MPO will also consider having committee members and staff attend other conferences such as the National Planning Conference held by the American Planning Association. Additionally, staff may also attend the ESRI User Conference as well as other ESRI seminars. For out of state travel, the MPO will seek prior TXDOT (TPP) approval. (Routine work effort). E. FUNDING & PARTICIPATION SUMMARY Task 1.0 - ADMINISTRATION & MANAGEMENT - FY 2023 Subtask Responsible Transportation FTA Sect. Local Total Agency Planning Funds 5307 (TPF)' 1.1 LWCAMPO $ 550,000 $0 $0 $ 550,000 1.2 LWCAMPO $ 50,000 $0 $0 $ 50,000 TOTAL $ 600,000 $0 $0 $ 600,000 1TPF -This includes both FHWAI PL-112and FTA: Section 5303 Funds. TxDOT will apply transportation development credits sufficient to provide the match for TPF. As the credits reflect neither cash nor man-hours, they are not reflected in the funding tables. III. TASK 2.0 - DATA DEVELOPMENT AND MAINTENANCE A. OBJECTIVE Provide updated information, demographic data and analysis to support the Metropolitan Planning Organization's planning efforts. B. EXPECTED PRODUCTS The expected products include an enhanced and regularly updated website with online interactive maps and data to help with performance-based planning and programming. MPO staff will continue to create and maintain databases including traffic crash locations, roadway network information, bicycle counts, and demographic data. In addition, data and mapping support will be provided for MPO plans, studies, and reports. FY2023 UPWP LAREDO WEBB COUNTY AREA MPO PAGE 14 C. PREVIOUS WORK Staff updated MPO website to provide access to meeting agendas, packets, and publications as they became available. It was also regularly updated with online data and maps. Project maps were developed, retrieved and or printed as new projects were approved or considered. Staff continued to work with TxDOT and Texas Transportation Institute representatives in the development of the 2013- 2045 Travel Demand Model to be used in the development of the 2020-2045 MTP. Data and mapping support was provided for plans, studies, and reports such as the Active Transportation Plan and other MPO activities. D. SUBTASKS SUBTASK 2.1 - General Data Administration. This subtask allows for planning and administrative activities related to data development, maintenance, procurement, and contract management for the developing related performance measures and the following activities: (To be conducted as routine work effort, by consultants, or by contracted personnel if needed) a) General GIS: Specific activities will include reviewing and providing direction on the development and dissemination of geospatial databases on residential and commercial growth and transportation data; mapping databases supporting Laredo MPO programs; maintenance of the demographic and modeling databases of the MPO; develop and maintain the interactive web viewer for sharing GIS data on growth and projects; develop maps and materials for work group and public meetings; support MPO staff in the creation of plans, studies, and reports. (Routine work effort) b) Demographic Forecasting: Create a database of population and demographic statistics for the Laredo MPO and develop projections to be utilized for the MPO planning effort. (Routine work effort) C) Travel Demand Modeling: Coordinate with TXDOT on development and maintenance of updated travel demand models to be used for the TIP and other plans; refinements of in- house modeling capabilities; and regular updates of computer hardware, software, and necessary peripherals for supporting the demographic forecasting and travel demand modeling activities. (Routine work effort) E. FUNDING & PARTICIPATION SUMMARY Task 2.0 - DATA DEVELOPMENT AND MAINTENANCE - FY 2023 Transportation FTA Sect. Responsible Local Subtask Planning Funds 5307 Total Agency (TPF)1 2.1 LWCAMPO $ 50,000 $0 $0 $ 50,000 TOTAL $5 50,000 $0 $0 $ 50,000 1TPF - This includes both FHWAI PL-112 and FTA Section! 5303 Funds. TxDOT will apply transportation development credits sufficient to provide the match for TPF. As the credits reflect neither cash nor man-hours, they are not reflected in the funding tables. FY2023 UPWP LAREDO WEBB COUNTY AREA MPO PAGE 15 IV. TASK 3.0 - SHORT RANGE PLANNING A. OBJECTIVE To complete those activities associated with short-range planning and implementation of projects that will be undertaken within the next five years. B. EXPECTED PRODUCTS The MPO will develop and/or revise as necessary the UPWP, the TIP, the MPO By-Laws, the Limited English Proficiency Plan (LEP), Title VI documentation and the Public Participation Plan. Staff will continue to address the recommendations resulting from the formal certification review conducted in 2020. MPO staff will also update the project selection criteria and Call for Projects process. Additionally, the MPO will continue to provide staff support to MPO committees, and will assist in implementation activities related to the MTP and Active Transportation Plan. C. PREVIOUS WORK MPO Staff assisted in the continued revision of the 2021-2024 TIP and the development of the 2023- 2026 TIP. Staff also assisted in the development and revision of previous year UPWP. In June of 2016, the Office of Civil Rights notified MPO Staff the Laredo MPO had demonstrated good faith efforts in meeting the requirements of the Title VI review. Staff developed a Limited English Proficiency Plan which was adopted and implemented in accordance with federal and state guidelines. In April of 2020, 3 projects including the Mier/Plum Street Shared Use Paths, 9 Bus Stop Rehabilitation, and the East Chacon Creek Hike and Bike Trail Project were awarded TAP funds. In 2021, the Active Transportation Committee was formed to help improve and promote active modes of mobility within the MPO boundary; staff helped in the creation of the committee and has continuously helped coordinate its activities and with implementing the recommendations of the Active Transportation Plan. Staff has initiated the Public Participation Plan update and is expected to be completed in FY 2022. D. SUBTASKS SUBTASK 3.1 General Administration. This subtask allows for MPO staff support for administrative activities related to short range planning, including the development and management of agency contracts; procurement, development and management of consultant contracts for projects in Task 3; and the review and processing of monthly billings for work related to Task 3. Specific activities will include, but are not limited to the update and/or revision of (TIP), UPWP, Bylaws, the Public Transportation Agency Safety Plan (PTASP), the Public Participation Plan, the Limited English Proficiency Plan, and Title VI documents. This subtask also includes public outreach activities such as video production, developing website information, writing articles, developing other printed materials, and public meeting facilitation as needed. (Routine work effort) SUBTASK 3.2 - Planning Assistance. This subtask will allow the MPO staff to provide planning assistance to entities within the MPO planning area boundary such as El Metro Transit, City of Laredo, Webb County, and City of Rio Bravo. This may include items such as data sharing, mapping, and general transportation planning activities. An example of this task is the MPO's collaboration with the City of Laredo Planning Department to FY2023 UPWP LAREDO WEBB COUNTY AREA MPO PAGE 16 update the Future Thoroughfare Plan for Laredo. This task will also include transit planning activities to support El Metro and can include grant development support and technical assistance. E. FUNDING & PARTICIPATION SUMMARY Task 3.0 - SHORT RANGE PLANNING - FY 2023 Subtask Responsible Transportation FTA Sect. Local Total Agency Planning Funds 5307 (TPF)1 3.1 LWCAMPO $ 5,000 $0 $0 $ 5,000 3.2 LWCAMPO $ 15,000 $0 $0 $ 15,000 TOTAL $ 20,000 $0 $0 $ 20,000 1TPF - This includes both FHWAI PL-112 and FTA: Section 5303 Funds. TxDOT will apply transportation development credits sufficient to provide the match for TPF. As the credits reflect neither cash nor man-hours, they are not reflected in the funding tables. V. TASK 4.0 - METROPOLITAN TRANSPORTATION PLAN / LONG RANGE PLAN A. OBJECTIVE To continue study and analysis of projects and data for long-range planning elements and long-range project studies. Includes activities associated with publishing or updating the Metropolitan Transportation Plan, formerly called the Long Range Plan. B. EXPECTED PRODUCTS Staff expects to assist in the continual revision of the existing Metropolitan Transportation Plan (MTP) as well as the development of the updated plan to conform to state and federal requirements, particularly those of the FAST Act. This will include working with TTI and TxDOT to update the Travel Demand Model. Additionally, the CMP will be updated as needed in preparation for the next MTP update. C. PREVIOUS WORK Staff assisted in the continuous revision of the 2020-2045 Laredo Metropolitan Transportation Plan which was adopted on January 21, 2020. D. SUBTASKS SUBTASK 4.1 - 2020-2045 Laredo Metropolitan Transportation Plan (MTP). The current 2020-2045 MTP and TIP will continue to be reviewed and amended in order to comply with the Fixing America's Surface Transportation (FAST) Act requirements as needed. Specifically, the review and amendments will address and achieve conformity with all FAST Act requirements. The existing MTP will also be updated to conform to state and federal requirements. Staff will continue to monitor the implementation of the MTP and assist with any necessary amendments to the MTP. (To be conducted as routine work effort or by consultant if needed). FY2023 UPWP LAREDO WEBB COUNTY AREA MPO PAGE 17 SUBTASK 4.2 - Preparation for the 2025-2050 MTP Update. MPO staff will develop a project task list and schedule related to the upcoming MTP update and will evaluate which tasks will be performed internally and which will be carried out by consultants. This subtask will entail updating the Travel Demand Model and CMP with the assistance of consultants if needed. As part of this subtask, the MPO will work closely with TxDOT and other stakeholders to develop a conceptual future regional transportation network that will factor in critical connections, especially as newinterstates are designated in the Laredo metropolitan area. This will entail identifying key locations for future highway interchanges, multi-modal options, and incorporation of new technologies. Through this task, the MPO in collaboration with TXDOT and other stakeholders will identify specific studies necessary to create a regional transportation network with efficient and seamless connectivity. (To be conducted as routine work effort or by consultant if needed). E. FUNDING & PARTICIPATION SUMMARY Task 4.0 - METROPOLITAN TRANSPORTATION PLAN / LONG RANGE PLAN - FY 2023 Subtask Responsible Transportation FTA Sect. Local Total Agency Planning Funds 5307 (TPF)1 4.1 LWCAMPO $ 25,000 $0 $0 $ 25,000 4.2 LWCAMPO $ 100,000 $0 $0 $ 100,000 TOTAL $ 125,000 $0 $0 $ 125,000 1TPF -1 This includes both FHWAI PL-112 and FTA Section! 5303 Funds.1 TxDOT will applyt transportation development credits sufficient to provide the match for TPF. As the credits reflect neither cash nor man-hours, they are not reflected in the funding tables. VI. TASK 5.0 - SPECIAL STUDIES A. OBJECTIVE To further the goals and objectives of the transportation planning process through special studies undertaken by MPO staff or consultants in support of existing or projected local needs. To maintain the transportation management systems required by federal and state regulations, to assist decision- makers in selecting cost-effective strategies to improve the efficiency and safety of and protect the investment systems. B. EXPECTED PRODUCTS These are specific studies and projects that address special problem areas or help promote and support transportation related topics. C. PREVIOUS WORK In FY 15, the 2015-2040 MTP, the TMA Certification Project, and the Congestion and Delay Study were completed. The Congestion Management Process (CMP) network and performance measures were adopted. FY2023 UPWP LAREDO WEBB COUNTY AREA MPO PAGE 18 The Laredo & Webb County Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (LWCAMPO), in coordination with Laredo Transit Management Inc. (LTMI), locally known as El Metro, awarded a contract for the development of a Comprehensive Operational Analysis (COA) study of El Metro's service and operations. The study evaluated both the current fixed route and paratransit bus service, and provided recommendations to address current and future service needs including but not limited to the realignment of existing services, proposal of new routes, optimal locations for transit hubs, discontinuation and/or reduction of non-productive routes/service, and the identification of preferred methodology for the on-going evaluation of the fixed route system, staffing and administration. The study provided recommendations to improve the system's service, efficiency, effectiveness, and connectivity and it was completed in 2022. (Work was conducted by Consultant). D. SUBTASKS SUBTASK 5.1 - Long Range Freight Mobility Plan. This study will evaluate freight movement in the study area in order to identify freight mobility needs and challenges, develop goals and objectives to improve goods movement, evaluate the impact of freight movement on the regional economy, identify freight transportation facilities and investments necessary for economic growth, define freight policies and programs, and provide recommendations for short, mid-range and long-term recommendations for infrastructure improvements. This study will serve as an investment guide for freight mobility improvements in the region. It is intended that staff will primarily be responsible for overseeing the development of the plan. However, consultants may be utilized to provide technical assistance to develop the plan. (To be conducted as routine work effort or by consultant if needed). SUBTASK 5.2 - Downtown Railroad Grade Separation Feasibility Study. This feasibility study will help identify, evaluate, and plan for a potential roadway and non-motorized pedestrian/bicycle grade separation in downtown Laredo along the Kansas City Southern railroad. The study will consist of identifying the best alternative for a grade separation, while carefully considering the character and needs of the surrounding community and ensuring the least possible impact to residents in the area. (To be conducted by consultant). SUBTASK 5.3 - Sidewalk Gap Analysis. This study will help identify existing gaps in the current sidewalk network to help local officials prioritize strategic improvements based on key criteria. The sidewalk gap analysis is a recommendation of the Laredo & Webb County Active Transportation Plan adopted by the City of Laredo in February 2021. This study will entail collection of data to develop an inventory of sidewalks and network gaps, the development of prioritization criteria for sidewalk improvements, and recommendations. (To be conducted as routine work effort or by consultant if needed). SUBTASK 5.4 - Bus Rapid Transit Study. This study is intended to evaluate the existing transit system and demographic forecasts to assess the feasibility of implementing bus rapid transit service along selected corridors that will help improve regional mobility and reduce congestion. (To be conducted by consultant). FY2023 UPWP LAREDO WEBB COUNTY AREA MPO PAGE 19 SUBTASK 5.5 - Resiliency Study. This study is intended to assess the current transportation system's vulnerabilities to major transportation incidents or weather-related hazards, the existence of alternative routes, and ability to recover. The MPO is working on requesting TTI assistance to develop a more detailed scope for this study that will help advance FHWA's efforts in working with MPOS to consider resilience in the transportation planning process. (To be conducted by consultant). SUBTASK 5.6 = Participation in River Road Corridor Study. This study is intended to develop a final alignment of the River Road project dentified in the 2020- 2045 Metropolitan Transportation Plan and determine traffic benefits for the surrounding area. The study will investigate two possible alignment routes and a No-Build option. This study will be conducted by a General Engineering Consultant procured by the Webb County City of Laredo Regional Mobility Authority (WC-CL RMA). The MPO plans to participate in this study through an interlocal agreement with the WC-CL RMA by sharing 50% of the cost associated with the River Road Corridor Study. The total cost of the study is $250,000 with the MPO and the WC-CL RMA each contributing $125,000. (To be conducted by consultant). E. FUNDING & PARTICIPATION SUMMARY Task 5.0 SPECIAL STUDIES - FY 2023 Subtask Responsible Transportation FTA Sect. Local Total Agency Planning Funds 5307 (TPF)1 5.1 LWCAMPO $ 100,000 $0 $0 $ 100,000 5.2 LWCAMPO $ 75,000 $0 $0 $ 75,000 5.3 LWCAMPO $ 50,000 $0 $0 $ 50,000 5.4 LWCAMPO $ 200,000 $0 $0 $ 200,000 5.5 LWCAMPO $ 50,000 $0 $0 $ 50,000 5.6 LWCAMPO $ 125,000 $0 $0 $125,000 TOTAL $ 600,000 $0 $0 $ 600,000 1TPF - This includes both FHWA PL-112 and FTAS Section 5303 Funds. TxDOT will apply transportation development credits sufficient to provide the match for TPF. As the credits reflect neither cash nor man-hours, they are not reflected in the funding tables. FY2023 UPWP LAREDO WEBB COUNTY AREA MPO PAGE 20 LAREDO WEBB COUNTY AREA METROPOLITAN PLANNING ORGANIZATION = FY 2023 FTA UPWP Task Description TPF1 Funds Local Total Funds Sect. 5307 Management & 1.0 $ 600,000 $0 $0 $ 600,000 Administration Data Development 2.0 $ 50,000 $0 $0 $5 50,000 and Maintenance Short Range 3.0 $ 20,000 $0 $0 $ 20,000 Planning MTP / Long Range 4.0 $ 125,000 $0 $0 $ 125,000 Plan 5.0 Special Studies $ 600,000 $0 $0 $ 600,000 TOTAL $ 1,395,000 $0 $0 $1 1,395,000 1TPF This includes both FHWA PL-112 and FTA Section 5303 Funds. TxDOT willa apply transportation development credits sufficient to provide the match for TPF. As the credits reflect neither cash nor man-hours, they are not reflected in the funding tables. FY 2021-2022 Combined Transportation Planning Funds2 $ 562,039 Estimated Unexpended Carryover3 $1,727,095 TOTAL TPF $2,289,134 Total TPF Programmed $1,395,000 2 Estimate based on prior years' authorizations. 3 The accounting below provides the estimated unexpended carryover for FY 2019-2020 (as shown above). FY 2020-2021 Unexpended Carryover $ 1,719,979 FY 2021-2022 Combined Transportation Planning Funds + $ 562,039 FY 2021-2022 Expenditures (estimated) $ 554,923 FY 2021-2022 Unexpended Carryover (estimated) $1,727,095 FY2023 UPWP LAREDO WEBB COUNTY AREA MPO PAGE 21 VII. APPENDICES APPENDIX A POLICY COMMITTEE MEMBERSHIP VOTING MEMBERS Honorable Pete Saenz Mayor - Committee Chairman City of Laredo Honorable Tano E. Tijerina Judge - Vice Chairman Webb County Honorable Ruben Gutierrez, Jr. Councilmember City of Laredo Honorable Dr. Marte A. Martinez Councilmember City of Laredo Honorable Vanessa Perez Councilmember Laredo Mass Transit Board Honorable John Galo Commissioner Webb County Honorable. Jesse Gonzalez Commissioner Webb County Humberto "Tito" Gonzalez, Jr. P.E. Member At Large Private David Salazar, P.E. District Engineer TxDOT EX-OFFICIO NON-VOTING MEMEBERS Honorable. Judith Zaffirini Senator - District 21 State of Texas Honorable Richard Raymond Representative District 42 State of Texas Honorable Tracy O. King Representative- District 80 State of Texas TECHNICAL COMMITTEE MEMBERSHIP MPO Representative: State Representatives: MPO Director (Chairperson) TxDOT Planning Representative Vice-Chairperson) TxDOT Planning Representative City Representatives: TXDOT Area Engineer Laredo Airport Director TxDOT Transportation Planning and Programming Field Laredo Bridge Director Representative Laredo City Engineer Laredo Planning Director Laredo Traffic Safety Director The General Manager of the City Transit System Federal representatives: School system representatives FHWA Planning Representative (Austin) Arepresentative of the Laredo Independent School District Ar representative of the United Independent School District Ar representative of Texas A&M International University Ar representative of Laredo Community College County and Regional Representatives: Private Sector Representatives: Webb County Planning Director A representative of the Kansas City Southern Railway South Texas Development Council Regional Company Planning Director Ar representative of the Union Pacific Railroad Company The General Manager of the Rural Transit System Ar representative of the Laredo Transportation Association Webb County Engineer A Transportation Provider Representative who shall also serve on the Laredo Transportation Advisory Committee MPO STAFF MPO Interim Director Juan S. Mendive Planner (Short Range) Graciela S. Briones Planner (Long Range) Julio Nino Planner (G.I.S.) Jason Hinojosa Administrative. Assistant Angelica Quijano Administrative Secretary (Vacant) FY2023 UPWP LAREDO WEBB COUNTY AREA MPO PAGE 22 APPENDIX B METROPOLITAN AREA BOUNDARY MAP Laredo Webb County Area Metropolitan Planning Organization 35 83 2555 / & FM 142 593 359 MPO Planning Area Boundary 83 4 8 Miles FY2023 UPWP LAREDO WEBB COUNTY AREA MPO PAGE 23 APPENDIX C DEBARMENT CERTIFICATION NEGOTIATED CONTRACTS 1) The Laredo Webb County Area Metropolitan Planning Organization, as Contractor, certifies to the best of its knowledge and belief, that it and its principals: a. Are not presently debarred, suspended, proposed for debarment, declared ineligible or voluntarily excluded from covered transactions by any federal department or agency; b. Have not within a three-year period preceding this proposal been convicted of or had a civil judgment rendered against them for commission of fraud or a criminal offense in connection with obtaining, attempting to obtain, or performing a public* transaction or contract under a public transaction; violation of federal or state antitrust statutes or commission of embezzlement, theft, forgery, bribery, falsification or destruction of records, making false statements, or reçceiving stolen property; C. Are not presently indicted for or otherwise criminally or civilly charged by a governmental entity * with commission of any of the offenses enumerated in paragraph (1) (b) of this certification; and d. Have not within a three-year period preceding this application/proposal had one or more public transactions* terminated for cause or default. 2) Where the Contractor is unable to certify to any of the statements in this certification, such Contractor shall attach an explanation to this certification. * Federal, State, or Local Pete Saenz Chairperson, MPO Policy Committee Mayor City of Laredo Date FY2023 UPWP LAREDO WEBB COUNTY AREA MPO PAGE 24 APPENDIX D LOBBYING CERTIFICATION CERTIFICATION FOR CONTRACTS, GRANTS, LOANS AND COOPERATIVE AGREEMENTS The undersigned certifies to the best of his or her knowledge and belief, that: 1) No federal appropriated funds have been paid or will be paid by or on behalf of the undersigned, to any person for influencing or attempting to influence an officer or employee of any federal agency, a Member of Congress, an officer or employee of Congress, or an employee of a Member of Congress in connection with the awarding of any federal contract, the making of any federal grant, the making of any federal loan, the entering into of any cooperative agreement, and the extension, continuation, renewal, amendment, or modification of any federal contract, grant, loan, or cooperative agreement. 2) If any funds other than federal appropriated funds have been paid or will be paid to any person for influencing or attempting to influence an officer or employee of any agency, a Member of Congress, an officer or employee of Congress, or an employee of a Member of Congress in connection with this federal contract, grant, loan, or cooperative agreement, the undersigned shall complete and submit Standard Form - LLL, "Disclosure Form to Report Lobbying, in accordance with its instructions. 3) The undersigned shall require that the language of this certification be included in the award documents for all sub awards at all tiers (inçluding subcontracts, sub grants, and contracts under grants, loans, and cooperative agreements) and that all sub recipients shall certify and disclosure accordingly. This certification is a material representation of fact upon which reliance was placed when this transaction was made or entered into. Submission of this certification is a prerequisite for making or entering into this transaction imposed by Section 1352, Title 31, U.S. Code. Any person who fails to file the required certification shall be subject to a civil penalty of not less than $10,000 and not more than $100,000 for each such failure. Pete Saenz Chairperson, MPO Policy Committee Mayor City of Laredo Date FY2023 UPWP LAREDO WEBB COUNTY AREA MPO PAGE 25 APPENDIX E CERTIFICATION OF COMPLIANCE I, Pete Saenz, Chairperson of the Laredo MPO Policy Committee, a duly authorized representative of the Laredo Webb County Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO), do hereby certify that the contract and procurement procedures that are in effect and used by the forenamed MPO are in compliance with 2 CFR 200, "Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards," " as it may be revised or superseded. Chairperson, MPO Policy Committee Mayor City of Laredo Date Attest: Jose A. Valdez, Jr. City Secretary City of Laredo FY2023 UPWP LAREDO WEBB COUNTY AREA MPO PAGE 26 APPENDIX F CERTIFICATION OF INTERNAL ETHICS AND COMPLIANCE PROGRAM I, Pete Saenz, Chairperson of the Laredo Urban Transportation Study, a duly authorized ofitcer/representative ofthe Laredo Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) do hereby certify that the forenamed MPO has adopted and does enforce an internal ethics and compliance program that is designed to detect and prevent violations of law, including regulations and ethical standards applicable to this entity or its officers or employees and that the internal ethics and compliance program satisfies the requirements of by 43 TAC S 31.39 "Required Internal Ethics and Compliance Program" and 43 TAC S 10.51 "Internal Ethics and Compliance Program" as may be revised or superseded. Chairperson, MPO Policy Committee Mayor City of Laredo Date Attest: Jose A. Valdez, Jr. City Secretary City of Laredo FY2023 UPWP LAREDO WEBB COUNTY AREA MPO PAGE 27 DRAFT 6.10.22 INTERLOCAL AGREEMENT THIS INTERLOCAL AGREEMENT (the "Agreement") is made and entered into effective as of the day of 2022, by and between the Webb County-City of Laredo Regional Mobility Authority (the "WC-CL RMA"); and the Laredo Webb County Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (the (LWCAMPO") (collectively, the "Parties,' 9 and each individually, a "Party"). WITNESSETH: WHEREAS, the WC-CL RMA is a regional mobility authority created pursuant to the request ofWebb County and the City of Laredo and operating pursuant to Chapter 370ofthe' Texas Transportation Code (the "RMA Act") and 43 TEX. ADMIN. CODE 88 26.1, et seq. (the "RMA Rules"), and is a body politic and corporate and political subdivision of the State of Texas; and WHEREAS, the LWCAMPO is a metropolitan planning organization created and operating pursuant to 23 United States Code sections 134-135 and Chapter 472, Subchapter D of the Texas Transportation Code; and WHEREAS, Chapter 791 of the Texas Government Code provides that any one or more public agencies may contract with each other for the performance of governmental functions or services in which the contracting parties are mutually interested; and WHEREAS, Section 370.033 of the Transportation Code provides that a regional mobility authority may enter into contracts or agreements with another governmental entity; and WHEREAS, the Parties support the extension of Aquero Boulevard (River Road) for approximately 6 miles to terminate at FM 1472 in the vicinity of FM 3338 (the "River Road Project); and WHEREAS, the Parties desire to conduct a study to develop a final alignment of the River Road Project, as identified in the 2020-2045 Metropolitan Transportation Plan and determine traffic benefits for the surrounding area (the "River Road Study"); and WHEREAS, HNTB, as the general engineering consultant to the WC-CL RMA (the "Consultant"), has developed a proposed scope of work and budget not to exceed $250,000.00 to prepare the River Road Study; and WHEREAS, on March 16, 2022, the LWCAMPO approved sharing equally with the WC-CL RMA in the cost of the River Road Study, pending approval of an amendment to the FY 2022 Unified Planning Work Program by the Texas Department of Transportation ("TxDOT") and the Federal Highway Administration ("FHWA); and 1 126025415v.3 DRAFT 4.22.22 WHEREAS, on March 25, 2022, in Resolution No. 22-15, the WC-CL RMA Board of Directors authorized the WC-CL RMA Chair to execute an agreement with the LWCAMPO to share equally in the cost of the River Road Study; and WHEREAS, on April 20, 2022, the LWCAMPO approved a revised FY 2022 Unified Planning Work Program to program an additional $125,000 in transportation planning funds for its share of the River Road Study; and WHEREAS, the Parties agree that the preparation of the River Road Study will benefit the residents of the City of Laredo and Webb County by increasing mobility in the South Texas region. NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual covenants and agreements herein contained, the undersigned Parties agree as: follows: I. FINDINGS Recitals. The recitals set forth above areincorporated herein for all purposes and are found by the Parties to be true and correct. It is further found and determined that the Parties have authorized and approved the Agreement by resolution or order adopted by their respective governing bodies, and that this Agreement will be in full force and effect when approved by each party. II. ACTIONS 1. Funding Commitment. The Parties shall each provide funding for the River Road Study in the total amount of $250,000.00 (the "Funding Commitment"). Table 1 - Funding Commitment Agency Commitment LWCAMPO $125,000.00 WC-CL RMA $125,000.00 Total $250,000.00 The allocation of the Funding Commitment between the Parties shall include the following not-to-exceed amounts by each Party: (1) $125,000.00 by the LWCAMPO; and (2) $125,000.00 by the WC-CLI RMA. The Funding Commitment is not a joint and several obligation of the Parties; each Party is only obligated for the not-to-exceed amount set forth herein. Each Party acknowledges that the WC-CL RMA will make contractual obligations related to the preparation of the River Road Study in reliance on the Funding Commitment and obligations set forth herein. The cost of preparing the River Road Study shall be apportioned on a pro rata basis between the LWCAMPO and the WC-CL RMA based on each Party's relative contribution to the total amount of the Funding Commitment. 2 126025415v.3 DRAFT 4.22.22 2. LWCAMPO Obligations. The LWCAMPO shall provide its portion of the Funding Commitment, on a cost-reimbursement basis, for costs incurred by the WC-CL RMA in preparing the River Road Study in accordance with Article II, Section 4. 3. WC-CL RMA Obligations. The WC-CL RMA shall provide services related to preparing the River Road Study, as described in scope of services attached hereto as Attachment "A" The services shall be performed by the WC-CL RMA under existing consultant contracts and shall be paid for directly by the WC-CL RMA to consultants under each contract. 4. Delivery of Funding Commitment. The WC-CL RMA shall provide written notification to the LWCAMPO upon completing the River Road Study. The LWCAMPO shall remit its portion of the Funding Commitment to the WC-CL RMA within thirty (30) days of receipt of such notice. 5. Surplus Funds. In the event any portion of the Funding Commitment is not required to administer all costs related to preparing the River Road Study, the Parties may retain any remaining amount. IV. GENERAL AND MISCELLANEOUS 1. T'erm and Termination. Subject to the following, this Agreement shall be effective as of the date first written above and shall continue in force and effect until: (a) the date final completion of the River Road Study has occurred, and all payments have been remitted; or (b) the Parties mutually agree to terminate this Agreement. The term of the Agreement may be extended by written agreement of the Parties. 2. Nondiscrimination. a)Compliance with Regulations: The WC-CL RMA shall require the Consultant to comply with the regulations relative to nondiscrimination in federally-assisted programs of the U.S. Department ofTransportation (the "USDOT"), Title 49, Code ofl Federal Regulations, Part 21 and Title 23, Code of Federal Regulations, Part 710.405(b), as they may be amended from time to time (hereinafter referred to as the Regulations), which are herein incorporated by reference and made a part of this contract. b)Nondiscrimination: The WC-CL RMA will require that the Consultant, with regard to the work performed by it during the contract, shall not discriminate on the grounds of race, color, sex, or national origin in the selection and retention of subcontractors, including procurement of materials and leases of equipment. The WC-CL RMA will require that the Consultant will not participate either directly or indirectly in the discrimination prohibited by Section 21.5 and Part 710.405(b) of the Regulations, including employment practices when the contract covers a program set forth in Appendix B of the Regulations. 3 126025415v.3 DRAFT 4.22.22 c)Solicitations) for Subcontracts, Including Procurements of Materials and Equipment: In all solicitations either by competitive bidding or negotiation made by the Consultant for work to be performed under a subcontract, including procurements of materials or leases of equipment, the WC-CL RMA will require that each potential subcontractor or supplier shall be notified by the Consultant of the WC-CL RMA's and Consultant's obligations under this Agreement and the Regulations relative to nondiscrimination of the grounds of race, color, sex, or national origin. d) Information and Reports: The WC-CL RMA shall provide, or cause the Consultant to provide, all information and reports required by the Regulations, or directives issued pursuant thereto, and shall permit access to its books, records, accounts, other sources of information, and its facilities as may be determined by the LWCAMPO, TxDOT or the USDOT to be pertinent to ascertain compliance with such Regulations or directives. Where any information required of the WC-CL RMA is in the exclusive possession of another who fails or refuses to furnish this information, the WC-CL RMA shall SO certify to the LWCAMPO, TxDOT or the USDOT as appropriate, and shall set forth what efforts it has made to obtain the information. e) Sanctions for Noncompliance: In the event of the Consultant's noncompliance with the nondiscrimination provisions of this contract, IxDOT shall impose such contract sanctions as it or the USDOT may determine to be appropriate, including but not limited to: a. Withholding of payments to the WC-CL RMA under this Agreement until the Consultant complies, and/or, b. Cancellation, termination, or suspension of this Agreement in whole or in part. f) Incorporation of Provisions: The WC-CL RMA will require the Consultant to include the provisions of paragraphs 1 through 6 in every subcontract, including procurements of materials and leases of equipment, unless exempt by the Regulations or directives issued pursuant thereto. The WC-CL RMA, through the Consultant, shall take such action with respect to any subcontract or procurement as the LWCAMPO may direct as a means of enforcing such provisions including sanctions for noncompliance; provided, however, that in the event the WC-CL RMA becomes involved in, or is threatened with litigation with a subcontractor or supplier as a result of such direction, the WC-CL RMA may request the LWCAMPO to enter into such litigation to protect the interests of the LWCAMPO; in addition, the WC-CL RMA t may request the United States to enter into such litigation to protect the interests of the United States. 3. Minority Business Enterprises. It is the policy of the USDOT that Minority Business Enterprises as defined in 49 CFR 23, Subpart A, shall have the maximum opportunity to participate in the performance of contracts financed in whole or in part with Federal funds. Consequently, the Minority Business Enterprise requirements of 49 CFR 23, exclusive of Subpart D, apply to this Agreement as follows: 4 126025415v.3 DRAFT 4.22.22 The WC-CL RMA agrees to cause the Consultant to ensure that Minority Business Enterprises as defined in 49 CFR 23, Subpart A, have the maximum opportunity in the performance of under this Agreement. In this regard, the Consultant shall take all necessary and reasonable steps in accordance with 49 CFR 23, exclusive of Subpart D, to ensure that Minority Business Enterprises have the maximum opportunity to compete for and perform under this Agreement. These requirements shall be physically included in any subcontract of the Consultant. Failure to carry out the requirements set forth above shall constitute a breach of this Agreement and, after the notification of the LWCAMPO, may result in termination of this Agreement by the LWCAMPO. 4. Notices. All notices, demands, or other requests, and other communications required or permitted under this Agreement shall be delivered personally or sent by certified or U.S. mail, postage prepaid, addressed to such Party at the following addresses: WC-CL RMA: Webb County-City of Laredo Regional Mobility Authority 7917 McPherson Road, Suite 203 Laredo, Texas 78045 Attn: WC-CL RMA Chair Jed A. Brown LWCAMPO: 1110 Houston Street Laredo, Texas 78042 Attn: 5. Prior Written Agreements. This Agreement is without regard to any and all prior written contracts or agreements between the Parties regarding any other subject matter and does not modify, amend, ratify, confirm, or renew any such other prior contract or agreement between the Parties. 6. Other Services. Nothing in this Agreement shall be deemed to create, byi implication or otherwise, any duty or responsibility of any of the Parties to undertake or not to undertake any other service, or to provide or not to provide any service, except as specifically set forth in this Agreement or in a separate written instrument executed by the Parties. 7. Governmental Immunity. Nothing in this Agreement shall be deemed to waive, modify, or amend any legal defense available at law ori in equity to any of the Parties nor to create any legal rights or claims on behalf of any third party. None of the Parties waives, modifies, or alters to any extent whatsoever the availability of the defense of governmental immunity under the laws of the State of Texas and of the United States. 8. No Joint Enterprise. This Agreement is not intended to, and shall not be construed to, create any joint enterprise between or among the parties. 5 126025415v.3 DRAFT 4.22.22 9. Amendments and Modifications. This Agreement may not be amended or modified except in writing and executed by the Parties to this Agreement and authorized by their respective governing bodies. 10. Severability. If any provision of this Agreement shall be held invalid or unenforceable by any court of competent jurisdiction, such holding shall not invalidate or render unenforceable any other provision hereof, but rather this entire Agreement will be construed as if not containing the particular invalid or unenforceable provision(s), and the rights and obligations of the Parties shall be construed and enforced in accordance therewith. The Parties acknowledge that if any provision of this Agreement is determined to be invalid or unenforceable, it is their desire and intention that such provision be reformed and construed in such a manner that it will, to the maximum extent practicable, give effect to the intent of this Agreement and be deemed to be validated and enforceable. 11. Venue. The Parties agree that all disputes that arise out of this Agreement are governed by the laws of the State of Texas and venue for all purposes herewith shall be in Webb County, Texas. 12. Assignment. Except as otherwise provided in this Agreement, a Party may not assign this Agreement without first obtaining the written consent of the other Parties. 13. Execution in Counterparts. This Agreement may be simultaneously executed in several counterparts, each of which shall be an original and all of which shall be considered fully executed as of the date first written above, when all of the Parties have executed an identical counterpart, notwithstanding that all signatures may not appear on the same counterpart. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Parties have executed and attested this Agreement by their officers thereunto duly authorized. WEBB COUNTY-CITY OF LAREDO LAREDO WEBB COUNTY AREA REGIONAL MOBILITY AUTHORITY METROPOLITAN PLANNING ORGANIZATION By: By: Jed A. Brown WC-CL: RMA, Chairman 6 126025415v.3 DRAFT 4.22.22 ATTACHMENT A Scope of Services 126025415v.3 DRAFT 4.22.22 Task 1 - Program MamagesAdminahtatin The WC-CL RMA General Engineering Consultant, HNTB Inc. (the "Consultant") will manage the River Road Study and hold regular monthly update meetings with the RMA Board Chair and others as necessary, as well as a Kick-Off meeting to review the scope, schedule and critical next steps for getting things started. This task will cover the Consultant's administrative costs over the course of 12 months and provide regular updates to keep track of progress and discuss any important issues that may arise during the course of this analysis. Administrative and invoicing 121 monthly coordination meetings 1 Kick-Off Meeting Task 2 - Environmental Analysis Data Review The Consultant will review available data and information related to the proposed River Road Project study area, which is proposed to include the area between World Trade Bridge (south), the Rio Grande (west) and FM 1472 (east and north). Environmental constraints will be: identified within this area, then mapped out and overlayed on one another to identify potential roadway alignment alternatives. This information will be used to define and analyze up to 10 potential roadway alignments. The purpose and need for the River Road Project will also be stated through this process. This task will bring any potential environmental impacts to the Consultant team's s attention. Environmental Constraints mapping Preliminary Purpose & Need Task 3 - Stakeholder Involvement The Consultant will hold a 1-day series of Stakeholder Workshops to review the draft preliminary purpose and need for the River Road Project, proposed roadway alignment alternatives, potential environmental constraints, and the proposed criteria for evaluating alternative alignments. Each workshop will be the same and include breakout discussions about the purpose and need and associated evaluation criteria, as well as a mapping exercise that will result in the refinement and addition of potential roadway alignments. Stakeholder workshop sessions will include the following: Stakeholder Workshop Sessions Property Owners Commercial Stakeholders La Bota Neighborhood City ofLaredo, TxDOT, UISD In addition to the series of workshops to be held toward the beginning of the alternatives analysis, the Consultant will provide up to 2 presentations to Laredo City Council at the conclusion both phases of this analysis (phases described in Task 5) and 1 presentation to the LWCAMPO Policy Board toward the conclusion of the alternatives analysis. Additional Stakeholder Presentations o 21 Laredo City Council Presentations (update and conclusion) O 1 LWCAMPO Presentation (conclusion) 1 126025415v.3 DRAFT 4.22.22 Task 4 - Traffic Analysis and Cost Estimating The Consultant will conduct a traffic analysis and provide refined cost estimates for the final route alignment alternatives once they have advanced into phase 2 of the analysis. This information will be used to determine which of the detailed alternatives has the best traffic benefit and favorable cost among other evaluation criteria. While the cost is expected to fluctuate as the River Road Project continues to be developed through design, the opinion of probable cost determined in Task 4 will provide the basis for discussion about implementation phasing and programming of full project funding among project partners. Traffic Analysis on Final Alternatives Conceptual Design and Cost Estimating of Final Alternatives pre-Schematic) Task 5 - Route Location Analysis Report The Consultant will conduct a 2-phase alternatives analysis to determine a preferred roadway alignment for the River Road Project, and provide detailed documentation of the process, methodology and conclusion of the analysis. The Alternatives Analysis has three steps: 1. Develop Purpose and Need, Evaluation Criteria and Preliminary Alternatives 2. Phase 1 Analysis of Preliminary Alternatives 3. Phase 2 Analysis of Detailed Alternatives Task 5 includes the work necessary to conduct the Phase 1 and 2 analysis, as well as documenting the entire process. In Phase 1, a set of up to 10 preliminary alternatives to be developed in Tasks 2 and 3 will be analyzed using evaluation criteria that measures each roadway alignment alternative's ability to meet the preliminary purpose and need. Evaluation criteria for Phase 1 will include an environmental constraints analysis that will reduce the number of alignment alternatives from up to 10 preliminary alternatives down to just 2 alternatives to advance into Phase 2. In Phase 2, a pair of 2 "Build" alternatives will be developed further (detailed alternatives) to gain a better understanding of the constructability of a roadway along each proposed alignment and to determine an opinion of probable cost for each, considering the vertical profile and need for any bridge structures. The 2 build alternatives will be compared to a "No-Build" alternative that assumes River Road Project is not built. Evaluation criteria for Phase 2 will include results from the traffic analysis, probable costs, and more detailed environmental constraints analysis such as potential right-of-way and drainage impacts among others. Evaluate Preliminary Alternatives (up to 10) Evaluate Detailed Alternatives (up to 2) compared to a No-Build Alternative In addition to the presentations provided in Task 3, The consultant will provide up to 2 presentations under this scope of work to the RMA Board at the conclusion of each phase of the Alternatives Analysis described previously. All of this information will be documented in a draft and final report that will provide the process, methodology and preferred roadway alignment for the River Road Project. 2 RMA Board Presentations (recommended final alternatives, recommended preferred alternative) Draft and Final Report Direct Expenses The consultant will prepare materials for the Stakeholder workshop sessions in Task 3 and cover 2 126025415v.3 DRAFT 4.22.22 transportation costs for Consultant team members between San Antonio and Laredo. Schedule The schedule for this scope of work will require 11 months from notice to proceed until submittal of the Final Report and include 1 additional month for any close-out activities. Please note that the schedule below assumed a January 2022 start date. This schedule would need to be adjusted accordingly depending upon when notice to proceed can be issued. Major milestones in the River Road Study schedule are as follows: Notice to Proceed (Jan) Kick-Off Meeting (Jan) Environmental Constraints Mapping, and Preliminary Purpose and Need (Feb) Stakeholder Workshop Sessions (Mar-Apr) Results from Phase 1 Analysis of Preliminary Alternatives (June) Presentation of Phase 1 Results to RMA Board and City Council (June-July) Traffic Analysis and Cost Estimates complete (Sept) Results from Phase 2 Analysis of Detailed Alternatives (Sept-Oct) Presentation of Phase 2 Results to RMA Board, City Council and LWCAMPO (Oct-Nov) Completion of Draft and Final Report (Nov-Dec) Contract close-out (Dec) 3 126025415v.3 D. Discussion with possible action on exploring the feasibility of a Transportation Reinvestment Zone (TRZ) in North Laredo-Webb County including along FM 1472. (Requested by Mayor Pete Saenz, Chairperson). E. Discussion with possible action on the Hachar-Reuthinger Road project. Juan Mendive From: Antonio Rodriguez Sent: Thursday, June 9, 2022 4:33 PM To: Juan Mendive Cc: .62804 WCCL Project Documents Control; Doug Howland; Melisa Montemayor, Jed Brown Subject: RE: RMA Status Update Follow Up Flag: Flag for follow up Flag Status: Flagged CAUTION: This email originated from outside your organization. Exercise caution when opening attachments or clicking links, especially from unknown senders. Juan, please see the WC-CL RMA status report. Please include in the Policy Committee member packets. 1. FM 1472 and Killam Industrial Blvd. Turn Lanes - The commencement of work at Killam Industrial Blvd. at FM 1472 occurred in early May 2022. In May, the acceleration lane construction of FM 1472 has been ongoing. In the next 2 weeks, the placement of low profile concrete barrier along Killam Industrial Blvd. for the construction of the dedicated right turn lane to commence. Currently the project is estimated at 10% complete. Substantial completion of the project is anticipated for October 2022. 2. Los Presidentes (Cuatro Vientos to Brownwood) - Construction is ongoing. Our 10th construction progress meeting was held on 5/24/22. Paving of the street is 84% complete. Construction oft the sidewalk is 60% complete. A major critical path item that is pending is the adjustment of two 18-inch water lines that will require a temporary service shut off. The Contractor is coordinating with the Utilities Department for scheduling. Currently, the project is scheduled for completion in 7/29/2022. The project was delayed due to lack of water for 2to 3 weeks. Overall the project is 80% complete. 3. Loop 20 South (Cuatro Vientos) Acceleration/ Deceleration Lane Project The project was awarded to Anderson Columbia in October 2021. Construction to commenced on the week of the 14th of March. Work conducted to date shows the placement of embankment for the setting of the subgrade for the widening has been completed. Paving of the acceleration and deceleration lanes are largely complete. The final pavement course is still pending. Major critical path item that is still pending is the installation of the proposed illumination on the Northbound and Southbound Lanes of Cuatro Vientos. Overall, the project is approximately 90% complete. 4. Loop 20 South (Cuatro Vientos) TRZ Study Update Study commenced in May with the execution of the City of Laredo and WCCL RMA ILA. To date the team has been gathering updated tax data from the Webb County Appraisal District and is compiling a list of major stake holders and property owners to schedule meetings that are part of the study. The study is scheduled for completion in October 2022. 5. Springfield Phase III - NTP was provided by the City of Laredo to AZAR Services, LLC on 12/15/21. Currently, the contractor is working on the concrete paving of the project. Substantial completion is scheduled for October 2022. The project is approximately 50% complete. 6. Webb County Fair Grounds TIA The RMA team has completed the existing conditions analysis for the study. On 6/10/22, the RMA Team along with the County consultant met with the TxDOT Laredo District to discuss the existing conditions analysis and review any possible concerns with the proposed driveway spacing on the project. Overall, timeframe for completion of the study is December of 2022. 7. River Road Corridor Study - The MPO Policy Committee approved moving forward with the Study. The WCCL RMA and the MPO are completing the finalization of the Inter Local Agreement. Upon execution, the study will commence. Duration of the study is estimated for 12 months. 8. Vallecillo Road - The RMA is continuing to explore gap funding from the State and Federal government to advance the project. 1 Other Items: The WCCL RMA Board of Directors to is scheduled to meet in July 2022. The RMA would like to have a discussion with MPO for future consideration of teaming to pursue the Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) Grant from FHWA. - It funds Local Governments, MPOs, and other jurisdictions to develop an action plan to prevent roadway deaths and serious injuries. If an action plan is already in place by a local government or MPO, it can fund the planning, design and development activities in support of the action plan or carry out strategies identified in the adopted action plan. Total funding for FY 2022 is $1 Billion. The minimum award is $200K. The most that can be awarded to a recipient (joint venture with 2 or more Local Governments and/or political subdivsions) is $5 Million. Application due date is 9/15/22 at 5 pm. Thank you. Antonio Rodriguez, PE WCCL RMA GEC Deputy Program Manager 2 LAREDO WEBB WY & COUNTY & AREA METROPOLITAN PLANNING ORGANIZATION Director's Report June 15, 2022 1. MPO staff is looking into upcoming grant opportunities, especially those related to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL). The MPO hopes to collaborate with its partners on grant development efforts. Currently, the MPO is in discussion with different entities about the possibility of applying for the Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) Grant program. 2. MPO staff is working on updating the Transportation Alternatives (TA) Set-Aside Project Guidelines in preparation to consider issuing a Call for Projects as part of the competitive process required to select and fund projects. TA Set-Aside funds can be used for projects such as pedestrian and bicycle facilities, recreational trails, and safe routes to school. On May 25th, the Active Transportation Committee met to discuss potential evaluation criteria to be used in the TA Set-Aside Call for Projects. 3. Upcoming regularly scheduled meetings: Active Transportation Committee - June 29, 2022 Technical Committee - July 12, 2022 Policy Committee - July 20, 2022