SOUTHERN ALLEGHENIES PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION (SAP&DC) REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS · 2015-10-19 · southern alleghenies planning and development commission (sap&dc) request

SOUTHERN ALLEGHENIES PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION (SAP&DC)

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

FOR SOUTHERN ALLEGHENIES

BICYCLE AND PEDESTRIAN PLAN DEVELOPMENT

FOR THE PERIOD OF JANUARY 1, 2016 THROUGH JUNE 30, 2016

INQUIRIES AND PROPOSALS SHOULD BE DIRECTED TO:

Gregory J. Garthe Transportation and GIS Program Manager

Southern Alleghenies Planning and Development Commission 3 Sheraton Drive

Altoona, PA 16601 (814) 949-6543

[email protected]

Southern Alleghenies Planning and Development Commission is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer

TABLE OF CONTENTS

I. GENERAL INFORMATION A. Purpose ............................................................................................................................................ 1 B. Who May Respond .............................................................................................................................. 1 C. Description of Entity ........................................................................................................................... 1 D. Proposal Information

1. Closing Submission Date ....................................................................................................... 1 2. Submission Instructions ........................................................................................................ 1 3. Inquiries ................................................................................................................................ 2 4. Conditions of Proposal .......................................................................................................... 2 5. Right to Reject ...................................................................................................................... 2 6. Small and/or Minority-Owned Businesses ........................................................................... 2 7. Notification of Award ........................................................................................................... 3

E. Contract Information 1. Type of Contract ................................................................................................................... 3 2. Period of Performance .......................................................................................................... 3 3. Payment ................................................................................................................................ 3 4. Options ................................................................................................................................. 3 5. Confidentiality ...................................................................................................................... 3

II. PROPOSAL GUIDELINES A. Proposal Format .................................................................................................................................. 4 B. Proposal Outline

1. Understanding of Work to be Performed ............................................................................. 4 2. Service Delivery Process ....................................................................................................... 4 3. Organizational Experience/Past Performance ...................................................................... 4 4. Staff Qualifications ................................................................................................................ 5 5. Cost Proposal ........................................................................................................................ 6

III. PROPOSAL EVALUATION A. Proposal Contents ............................................................................................................................... 7 B. Nonresponsive Proposals .................................................................................................................... 7 C. Proposal Evaluation Criteria and Scoring ............................................................................................ 7 D. Review and Final Selection Process .................................................................................................... 8

IV. STATEMENT OF WORK .............................................................................................................................. 9 V. ROLES & RESPONSIBILITIES ...................................................................................................................... 14

VI. APPENDIX I: 2002 SOUTHERN ALLEGHENIES BICYCLE AND PEDESTRIAN PLAN ..................... 15

VII. APPENDIX II: FEDERAL DBE INFORMATION ....................................................................................... 40

VIII. APPENDIX III: FEDERAL NONDISCRIMINATION AND EQUAL EMPLOYMENT

OPPORTUNITY CLAUSES ........................................................................................................................... 49

I. GENERAL INFORMATION

A. Purpose This Request for Proposals (RFP) seeks proposals for the development of an updated Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan for the Southern Alleghenies Rural Planning Organization (RPO), consisting of the Pennsylvania counties of Bedford, Fulton, Huntingdon, and Somerset to be in the form of a digital and hardcopy document with supporting information, referred to herein as the “Plan”. The plan will aim to review both on and off road bicycling and pedestrian opportunities throughout the region as well as developing strategies to facilitate, support, and promote those opportunities. The plan should give consideration to both transportation and recreational uses of these facilities.

B. Who May Respond Any planning consultant or other organization with appropriate expertise may respond. Proposals that include partnerships between multiple organizations with applicable areas of expertise are preferred. Parties submitting proposals in response to this RFP are referred to herein individually as “Offeror” or collectively as “Offerors”.

C. Description of Entity SAP&DC, a nonprofit corporation that serves six counties in South-Central Pennsylvania, has been determined to be exempt from Federal income tax under Section 501(c) (4) of the Internal Revenue Code. It is governed by a 19-member volunteer Board of Directors and serves the counties of Bedford, Blair, Cambria, Fulton, Huntingdon, and Somerset. Administrative offices and all records are located at 3 Sheraton Drive, Altoona, PA 16601.

SAP&DC is a grantee of the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT). Funds to be awarded to the Offeror submitting the proposal selected by SAP&DC pursuant this RFP are federal and state funds.

D. Proposal Information

1. Closing Submission Date Proposals must be submitted no later than 4:00 PM on November 20, 2015.

2. Submission Instructions Proposals and supporting materials must be submitted in electronic format using the form on the SAP&DC website at http://www.sapdc.org/gov-non-profit/transportation-planning-plans-publications/bicycle-pedestrian-rfp

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http://www.sapdc.org/gov-non-profit/transportation-planning-plans-publications/bicycle-pedestrian-rfp


It is the responsibility of all Offerors to ensure that SAP&DC receives the proposal by the date and time specified above. Late proposals will not be considered.

3. Inquiries Inquiries concerning this RFP should be directed to:

Gregory J. Garthe

Transportation and GIS Program Manager (814) 949-6543

[email protected]

4. Conditions of Proposal All costs incurred in the preparation of a proposal responding to this RFP will be the responsibility of the Offeror submitting the proposal and shall not be reimbursed by SAP&DC.

5. Right to Reject SAP&DC reserves the right to reject any and all proposals received in response to this RFP. A contract for the accepted proposal will be based upon the factors described in this RFP.

6. Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE), Small Business Enterprise (SBE), and Small Business Concern Involvement The SAP&DC is committed to providing opportunities for Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (DBEs), Small Business Enterprises (SBEs), and small business concerns to compete for work. DBEs are certified by the Pennsylvania Unified Certification Program (PA UCP) in accordance with 49 CFR Part 26. SBEs are certified by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation. Small business concerns are those entities seeking to participate in Commonwealth contracts that meet the definition of a small business concern set forth in Section 3 of the Small Business Act and Small Business Administration regulations implementing it at 13 CFR Part 121. Contractors are encouraged to involve Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (www.paucp.com), Small Business Enterprises (www.dotsbe.pa.gov) and small business concerns in the required work and to submit documentation of any such involvement in the proposal.

Contractors must maintain records to ensure compliance with 49 C.F.R. Part 26 obligations by indicating the number of DBE, SBE, and non-DBE/SBE subcontractors, the type of work performed on the Project, documentation of efforts to secure DBE/SBE firms for available subcontracting opportunities and the means of communication used to obtain the services of DBEs/SBEs, and dollars amounts paid to DBEs/SBEs.

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mailto:[email protected]

http://www.paucp.com/

http://www.dotsbe.pa.gov/

If a DBE is part of the proposal, provide detailed information describing the work to be performed by a Pennsylvania DBE Unified Certification Program (PA UCP)-certified DBE. Include: the business name of the DBE with address, contact person and phone number; a detailed narrative description of the services to be provided by the DBE; and the percent of the proposal’s total cost to be contractually allocated to the DBE. The same information should also be included for Small Business Enterprises certified by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation. No cost information can be shown in the technical proposal.

The only source to be used for verification of current eligibility of a DBE is the PA UCP website: www.paucp.com The only source to be used for verification of current eligibility of a SBE is the SBE website: www.dotsbe.pa.gov/ Physical certification letters and/or expiration dates should not be requested from DBE/SBE certified firms. DBE/SBE certification does not expire.

7. Notification of Award It is expected that a final decision selecting the successful Offeror will be made at the Southern Alleghenies Rural Transportation Coordinating Committee (RTCC) meeting on December 10, 2015. Upon conclusion of final negotiations with the successful Offeror, all other Offerors will be informed, in writing, of the name of the successful Offeror.

E. Contract Information

1. Type of Contract Firm Fixed Price.

2. Period of Performance The period of performance for this program will be from January 1, 2016 – May 31, 2016.

3. Payment Payment will be made when SAP&DC has determined that the Plan has been satisfactorily completed. Should SAP&DC reject the Plan, SAP&DC's authorized representative will notify the Subcontractor in writing of such rejection giving the reason(s). The right to reject the Plan shall extend throughout the term of this contract and for ninety (90) days after the Subcontractor submits the final invoice for payment.

Progress payments will be allowed to the extent that SAP&DC can determine that satisfactory progress is being made. SAP&DC will withhold 20% of the total contract amount until final delivery and acceptance of the Plan.

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Upon delivery of twenty (20) hard copies and one (1) electronic copy of the Plan to SAP&DC and its acceptance and approval, the Subcontractor may submit a bill for the balance due on the contract.

4. Options At the discretion of SAP&DC, this contract can be terminated at any time or extended beyond the specified contract period, in writing. The cost for the option periods will be agreed upon by SAP&DC and the Subcontractor.

5. Confidentiality The Subcontractor agrees to keep the information related to all contracts in confidence.

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II. PROPOSAL GUIDELINES

A. Proposal Format Proposals should not exceed ten (10) pages in length and should be typed on 8.5 X 11 inch pages with margins no smaller than one (1) inch. Font size should be no smaller than ten (10) point. Supporting materials are not required, but are encouraged, and may be provided in addition to the ten (10) page scope of work. Proposals and all supporting materials must be submitted electronically at http://www.sapdc.org/gov-non-profit/transportation-planning-plans-publications/bicycle-pedestrian-rfp

B. Proposal Outline Offerors are required to address all of the following items in their proposal: 1. Understanding of Work to be Performed Each Offeror is required to demonstrate a thorough understanding of why the project is needed and how it will meet the needs of the RPO. 2. Service Delivery Process Each proposal must specifically address how the Offeror will accomplish the tasks defined in the Statement of Work included in Section IV of this RFP, rather than simply reiterating the required tasks. The Offeror must also include a timeline that proposes completion dates for each task within the specified time limits. 3. Organizational Experience/Past Performance Each Offeror shall describe its organization, structure, and capacity to complete the proposed project and explain the unique qualifications that will allow them to fulfill the tasks of this RFP. Offerors should also describe previous experience with similar projects, including the operation of programs financed by the federal or state government. Offerors are encouraged to submit a reasonable amount of supporting materials through the online submission form. Indicate, where appropriate, if the Offeror is a small, minority-owned, or Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE). The following information must be obtained from Offerors who maintain DBE status:

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a) Firm name; b) Firm address; c) Firm’s status as a DBE or non-DBE; d) Age of firm; and e) Annual gross receipts of the firm. Specifically indicate which gross receipts

bracket your firm falls under: o Less than $500,000 o $500,000-$1 million o $1-$2 million o $2- $5 million o Greater than $5 million

Contractors must maintain records to ensure compliance with 49 C.F.R. Part 26 obligations by indicating the number of DBE, SBE, and non-DBE/SBE subcontractors, the type of work performed on the Project, documentation of efforts to secure DBE/SBE firms for available subcontracting opportunities and the means of communication used to obtain the services of DBEs/SBEs, and dollars amounts paid to DBEs/SBEs.

4. Staff Qualifications Each Offeror must identify all personnel that will be assigned to the project, including their contact information and a description of their relevant technical, educational, and occupational qualifications and any prior experience they have. This section of the proposal should also explain the overall work structure and supervision to be implemented. 5. Cost Proposal All Offerors must submit their total project cost, along with a task-by-task cost breakdown for each of the tasks defined within the Statement of Work.

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III. PROPOSAL EVALUATION

A. Proposal Contents All proposals must follow the specified format and include all required elements as detailed in the Proposal Guidelines section of this RFP.

B. Nonresponsive Proposals Proposals may be judged as nonresponsive and removed from further consideration if any of the following occur:

The proposal is not received by the deadline specified in the terms of this RFP

The proposal does not follow the specified format described this RFP

The proposal is not adequate for the reviewers to form a judgment that the proposed work would comply with federal and state requirements

The proposed costs exceed the amount of funding available for the project

C. Evaluation Criteria and Scoring Offerors may be asked to give a brief summary presentation at the Southern Alleghenies Rural Transportation Coordinating Committee (RTCC) meeting on December 10, 2015. All proposals will be evaluated by the Committees and given a total score based on the following criteria and point values:

Criteria Value

METHOD FOR PROVIDING REQUESTED SERVICE 50

Understanding of the project in general and in specific subject areas 15

Adequacy of the scope of services provided 15

Adequacy of the proposed project deliverables 10

Demonstrated commitment to following the project timeline 10

QUALIFICATIONS, EXPERIENCE, AND STAFFING 50

Demonstrated ability of the project manager to carry out the consulting and coordination responsibilities within the time limits

20

Demonstrated ability of other key personnel to carry out proposed assignments

15

Confidence in the stability, continuity, and time commitment of the project team

15

TOTAL 100

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D. Review and Final Selection Process Once discussion and scoring of all proposals is completed, the RTCC will vote to approve a contract awardee. However, the final approval of the contract award will be at the sole discretion of the SAP&DC Board of Directors. SAP&DC may, at its discretion, request additional presentations by or meetings with any or all Offerors to clarify or negotiate modifications to the proposals. However, SAP&DC reserves the right to make an award without further discussion of the proposals submitted, and therefore proposals should initially be submitted with the most favorable terms the Offeror can provide, from both technical and price standpoints.

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IV. STATEMENT OF WORK

The Southern Alleghenies Rural Planning Organization The Southern Alleghenies Rural Planning Organization (RPO) conducts transportation planning activities in Bedford, Fulton, Huntingdon, and Somerset Counties. The RPO was established in 2003 and is responsible for implementing a series of tasks outlined in a Rural Transportation Work Program agreement with the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT). The RPO has two standing committees; a Rural Transportation Technical Committee (RTTC) and a Rural Transportation Coordinating Committee (RTCC). The Technical Committee is responsible for the creation and analyses of transportation plans and programs, and makes recommendations to the Coordinating Committee. The Coordinating Committee establishes transportation policy and makes final decisions on courses of action. Both committees meet on a quarterly basis. The RPO sits within the greater six-county region known as the Southern Alleghenies, which also includes Blair and Cambria counties. The region is designated as a Local Development District (LDD) by the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC). LDDs are multi-county organizations that provide services in the areas of community and economic development, transportation, international trade, government procurement, workforce development and much more.

Plan Requirements The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) guidance for bicycle and pedestrian planning states that the bicycle and pedestrian specific elements of transportation plans should include:

1. Vision and goal statements, and performance criteria 2. Assessment of current conditions and needs 3. Identification of activities required to meet the vision and goals 4. Implementation of the bicycle and pedestrian elements in the statewide and

MPO/RPO transportation plans and Transportation Improvement Programs 5. Evaluation of progress 6. Public involvement 7. Transportation conformity requirements for air quality (where applicable)

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Project Overview The current Southern Alleghenies Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan was adopted in 2002. Through the UPWP agreement with PennDOT, the RPO has funding available to complete an update to the plan during the 2015-2016 State Fiscal Year, which ends on June 30, 2016. SAP&DC is seeking proposals from qualified professionals that are knowledgeable in transportation planning, with significant knowledge and experience with bicycle and pedestrian facilities. Additionally, SAP&DC is seeking demonstrated competencies in regional and/or rural planning, GIS, research, and data analysis. At a minimum, the bicycle and pedestrian plan must include the following elements:

An assessment of existing bicycle and pedestrian facilities throughout the region, including those for transportation or recreational uses;

An evaluation of missing linkages among regional facilities and opportunities for closing gaps between them;

A strategy for addressing and integrating bicycle and pedestrian concerns into the transportation planning and programming process at the local, county, state, and federal levels;

An evaluation of how bicycle and pedestrian modes are considered in other local, regional, state, and federal plans and initiatives;

A focus on coordination and collaboration between organizations and agencies involved with bicycle and pedestrian related planning;

An analysis of bicycle/pedestrian/motor vehicle conflict areas and a focus on improved safety, awareness, and better integration of all modes;

A discussion of how improved bicycle and pedestrian facilities may enhance the quality of life for residents and attract visitors to the region;

Priorities for implementation based on resources (from multiple program sources), time, and feasibility for implementing specific strategies and/or activities identified.

Project Tasks Task 1.0 - Project Management and Coordination 1.1 Conduct an initial kick-off meeting with SAP&DC staff and the Project Steering Committee to

discuss project goals and objectives The Subcontractor will participate in a project kick-off meeting involving the Project Steering Committee. The Subcontractor will review the project goals and objectives, discuss the main work tasks and explain how they will be completed in accordance with the project timeline, and identify the expected outcomes of the overall project. This meeting will give the Project Steering Committee an opportunity to provide initial guidance and input.

1.2 Coordinate project activities with the Project Steering Committee

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The Subcontractor will meet with the Project Steering Committee several times throughout the period of work and will communicate with the committee members regularly via phone and email. The Subcontractor will closely coordinate all project activities with the Project Steering Committee, including all public outreach events and stakeholder meetings.

Task 2.0 - Public & Stakeholder Outreach

2.1 Conduct public outreach sessions to present plan objectives and gather public input The Subcontractor will gather community input through the facilitation of input-gathering techniques, implemented in accordance with established RPO public participation procedures. At a minimum, the Subcontractor will hold at least one public outreach session in each of the four counties in the Southern Alleghenies RPO to gain insight on the availability and effectiveness of existing bicycle and pedestrian facilities, identify barriers and challenges to using these modes, and explore potential avenues for increasing and improving facilities in the region. The Subcontractor will publicly advertise these sessions to solicit broad-based public involvement, but will also actively target participation from bicycle and pedestrian groups, which may necessitate additional meetings at alternate locations. The Subcontractor will have an organized strategy in place for facilitating the sessions, synthesizing the information gathered, and incorporating the findings into the plan. The Subcontractor will be encouraged to implement various creative and inclusive public involvement methods, such as online and in-person surveys, social media, etc. to maximize participation in the process.

2.2 Contact key stakeholders to present plan objectives and gather input In addition to the public outreach sessions, the Subcontractor will meet with key stakeholders in the region or conduct phone interviews to gather their perspective on existing facilities and additional opportunities. SAP&DC will work with the Subcontractor to help identify a list of stakeholders for this process.

Task 3.0 - Data Gathering and Analysis

3.1 Identify, review, and analyze the social and economic conditions of the region as they relate to bicycle and pedestrian facilities The Subcontractor will analyze socioeconomic data as part of the preliminary Plan work. These datasets will be used to complement stakeholder interviews and public outreach activities and to paint an overall picture of the transportation and recreational needs for bicycle and pedestrian facilities in the region based on the region’s population characteristics. Upon completion of the Plan, the RPO will retain all data gathered during the plan development process.

At a minimum, the list of data should include:

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Locations of existing bicycle and pedestrian facilities, including bicycle lanes, designated bicycle on-road routes, recreational trails, designated greenway corridors, sidewalks, crosswalks, schools, businesses, commercial areas, and any other recreational or daily use areas of significant bicycle and pedestrian use

Population, age, race, income, vehicular ownership, and other data to identify communities where alternate modes of transportation may be in higher demand

Public transit stops and facilities

Locations of housing for the elderly, disabled, and low income

Locations of shopping centers, hospitals and medical facilities, employment areas, human service/assistance offices, daycares and schools, government offices and facilities, recreation areas, and other destinations

Locations of cultural, historical, and recreational attractions

3.2 Gather and analyze applicable data from existing plans within the Southern Alleghenies Region, including but not limited to:

Southern Alleghenies Long Range Transportation Plan (LRTP)

Southern Alleghenies Transportation Improvement Program (TIP)

Pennsylvania’s Twelve Year Program (TYP)

Southern Alleghenies Coordinated Transit-Human Services Transportation Plan

Southern Alleghenies Workforce Investment Area Local Plan

County Comprehensive Plans

County Economic Development Plans

Pennsylvania Outdoor Recreation Plan

Other pertinent regional and local plans Work under this task should consider plans outside of the RPO, including those pertaining to Blair and Cambria Counties and their respective Metropolitan Planning Organizations (MPOs), and statewide plans where applicable. The Subcontractor will gather and analyze local and regional plans related to transportation, land use, and economic and community development and use the analysis to drive development of an implementation strategy for the Plan. The Subcontractor will carefully consider the goals, objectives, and priorities of existing planning documents when developing the goals and objectives of the Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan.

3.3 Develop a SWOT analysis of the bicycle and pedestrian facilities in the region The Subcontractor will develop a strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT) analysis of the bicycle and pedestrian facilities in the region. The analysis will identify opportunities to integrate/coordinate investments in these facilities with other transportation investment priorities as identified in other regional plans. This analysis will be used to develop a vision and subsequent goals and objectives for bicycle and pedestrian facilities in the region.

3.4 Develop an implementation strategy to address the goals and objectives of the Plan

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The Subcontractor will be required to develop a thorough implementation plan that will consider the regional goals and objectives and their associated performance measures for the purposes of prioritizing and selecting targeted investments for the region. The implementation strategy will, at a minimum, identify the parties responsible for carrying out the steps needed to reach the goals and objectives, the timeframe for the completion of each, and specify performance measures for evaluating the effectiveness of each part of the process.

Task 4.0 – Completion of Final Plan 4.1 Complete Final Deliverables

The Subcontractor will develop the Plan in accordance with the requirements specified in this RFP. The Subcontractor will produce and distribute a draft Plan for review by the Project Steering Committee, SAP&DC staff, all stakeholders, and by the general public in accordance with RPO public participation procedures. The Subcontractor will revise the Plan based upon the draft review process and deliver the final document in electronic and hardcopy format. The Subcontractor will provide twenty (20) hardcopies and one (1) digital copy of the Plan to the RPO. The final deliverables must include the following items:

An executive summary of the Plan that reports key findings and outlines the major objectives of the regional bicycle and pedestrian strategy

An in-depth (SWOT) analysis of bicycle and pedestrian facilities in the region, including:

o Identification of opportunities to integrate/coordinate investments in these facilities with other transportation investment priorities as identified in other regional plans

o An evaluation of opportunities for collaboration between bicycle and pedestrian agencies and organizations and other planning organizations

A discussion of short and long-term strategies for continued funding of priority projects identified in the plan

An explanation of the Plan’s consistency with the goals and objectives of other local, regional, and state plans

A discussion of public and stakeholder involvement in the development of the Plan

Development of a regional vision for bicycle and pedestrian facilities and their integration with other modes on the existing transportation network

A specific action plan that identifies: o The regional bicycle and pedestrian related goals and objectives o The stakeholders responsible for implementation of each goal and objective o The timeline for implementation for each goal and objective o Opportunities for current and future project funding

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IX. ROLES & RESPONSIBILITIES

Roles of Subcontractor Review the 2002 Southern Alleghenies Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan (Appendix I)

Work with SAP&DC staff to identify and acquire necessary datasets

Perform all data analysis, including GIS and mapping work

Review existing county, regional, and state plans for integration/coordination with

plan development activities

Facilitate all stakeholder interviews, public meetings, and other

outreach/involvement activities as needed

Give presentations to the Project Steering Committee, the Rural Transportation Committees, and the SAP&DC Board of Directors as needed

Develop regional goals and objectives and integrate them into the action plan

Work with SAP&DC staff and stakeholders to establish a set of performance

measures for implementation of the plan

Develop and provide draft Plan and all final deliverables to SAP&DC

Roles of SAP&DC

Assist Subcontractor with identifying stakeholders within the region

Provide list of potential Project Steering Committee members to Subcontractor

Support GIS and mapping work as needed

Support public outreach efforts as needed

Coordinate Subcontractor involvement with the Project Steering Committee, Rural

Transportation Committees, and the SAP&DC Board of Directors as needed

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APPENDIX I

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Southern AllegheniesBicycle and Pedestrian

Plan

prepared for

by

July 2002

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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTSACKNOWLEDGEMENTSACKNOWLEDGEMENTSACKNOWLEDGEMENTSACKNOWLEDGEMENTSGannett Fleming, Inc. wishes to thank the members of the Southern Alleghenies Bicycle and PedestrianCommittee and its stakeholder participants for their insight, knowledge, and ongoing participation as weprepare this plan. We appreciate your constructive dialog, active review of materials, and attendance atthe meetings.

Bicycle / Pedestrian CommitteeJohn Dubnansky Southern Alleghenies Planning & Development Commission (SAP&DC)

Fred Querry SAP&DC

Ben White SAP&DC

Hank Parke Somerset County Chamber of Commerce

Brad Zearfoss Somerset County Planning Commission

Clark Fisher Environmental Information Services

Patti Marshall PennDOT Central Office

Jim Campbell PennDOT District 9-0

Larry Bilotto PennDOT District 9-0

Randy Hillegass PennDOT District 9-0

Michele Jacoby PennDOT District 9-0

Jeff Kloss Bedford County Planning Commission

Bill Plank Bedford County

Murry Schrotenboer Grouseland Tours

Carol Synder Bedford County Chamber of Commerce

Gannett Fleming StaffBrian Funkhouser, AICP

Rails to Trails Conservancy StaffTom Sexton

Jamie Bridges, Project Facilitator

Members of the Southern Alleghenies Bicycle andPedestrian Planning Committee identifyingexisting bike/ped facilities.

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Table of ContentsAcknowledgements ................................................................................................................ 2

Glossary ................................................................................................................................ 4

Overview ............................................................................................................................... 5

Introduction .......................................................................................................................... 5

Goals ..................................................................................................................................... 6

Transportation Route Mapping ............................................................................................ 6

Existing Opportunities / Assets ............................................................................................ 7

Example Action Plans ........................................................................................................... 18

Conclusion ............................................................................................................................ 24

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Southern Alleghenies Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan

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GLGLGLGLGLOSSARYOSSARYOSSARYOSSARYOSSARYDCNR: The Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Re-sources manages the state’s parks and forests, administers a grants and techni-cal assistance program for community recreation and conservation, andprovides topographic and geographic information.

Greenway: A corridor of protected land along rivers, valley, ridges, railroadcorridors, canals and other linear features. They are often used to connectvarious recreational, cultural and natural areas.

Intermodal: Connection and ease of transfer between modes of travel. Forexample: Bicycle lockers at a train station are an intermodal amenity.

Multimodal: A transportation trip which uses more than one mode of travel.For example: Bicycling to a bus stop and completing the trip on the bus.

STC – State Transportation Commission: The Pennsylvania State Transpor-tation Commission is a 15-member body that holds regular meetingsthroughout the state and holds public hearings to set transportation programpriorities. The Commission recommends a 12-year transportation programto the Governor, the General Assembly and the Secretary of Transportationfor their consideration every two years.

TEA-21 – Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century: Federal SurfaceTransportation legislation, enacted into law in June 1998. It is the successorlegislation to the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act (ISTEA)of 1991. TEA-21 will provide Pennsylvania with $1.3 billion dollars infederal transportation funding over its six-year life.

Transportation Improvement Program (TIP): A list of the transportationprojects for which planning has been completed and which require fundingfor implementation. Projects are placed on the TIP by the LDD. The TIP inessence serves as the first four-year period of the 12-Year Program.

Twelve Year Program: State legislation requires that the Commonwealthdevelop and maintain a 12 Year Transportation Program, and that the pro-gram be reviewed, revised, adjusted and extended every two years.

Rural Planning Organization (RPO) / LDD

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1.01.01.01.01.0 OverOverOverOverOverviewviewviewviewviewThe Southern Alleghenies Bicycle and Pedestrian Committee began meetingon August 14, 2000. The Committee began the effort to bring knowledge-able and interested individuals from the four-county region, which in-cludes Bedford, Fulton, Huntingdon and Somerset Counties, together tolook at both on and off road bicycling/pedestrian opportunities throughoutthe region and how these opportunities can be facilitated, supported andpromoted.

Adopting a Bicycle and Pedestrian plan establishes a solid policy and plan-ning direction for the region and its member municipalities. Bicycling andwalking are legitimate transportation modes that can improve the perfor-mance of our transportation system if included in the planning, design,construction, operation and maintenance of the overall transportationsystem. Also, use of alternate transportation modes will preserve the environ-ment by decreasing air pollution and reducing the amount of land consumedto create more roads. The quality of bike-ped modes in a region or a com-munity is also a fairly good indicator of quality of life and communitylivability.

The plan must not only be technically strong from a planning and designstandpoint, but the planning process must be developed and carried out inways that:

• Develop and sustain interest and appreciation for bicycle and pedes-trian modes.

• Result in a set of priorities and projects that reflect a regional consen-sus.

• Mainstream bicyclist and pedestrian concerns as part of the transpor-tation planning and programming process at the state, county, andlocal levels.

• Build relationships among organizations and agencies that have notconstructively interacted on these issues in the past.

• Minimize bicycle and pedestrian conflicts with motor vehicle traffic.

• Integrate bicycles into the normal flow of motor vehicle traffic,where feasible.

2.02.02.02.02.0 IntroductionIntroductionIntroductionIntroductionIntroductionAs with any planning effort, the Southern Alleghenies Bicycle and PedestrianTransportation Plan begins with a vision statement, followed by a list ofgoals that support the intent of the planning vision. These planning goals are

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in turn followed by a list of action steps that must be taken by a variety ofagencies and organizations to meet the plan’s goals.

Vision Statement:The Southern Alleghenies region values the importance of a varietyof methods for transporting people for transportation, recreation,economic development, health, and wellness and will actively planand provide for the safe integration of bicycle and pedestrianprojects and other forms of transportation into the tourism, recreation andtransportation system that will connect communities with regional and stateassets.

3.03.03.03.03.0 GoalsGoalsGoalsGoalsGoalsCommittee members developed a list of planning goals that, if realized,would make the Southern Alleghenies Bicycle and Pedestrian TransportationPlan a success. The goals are listed below:• Develop regional linkages utilizing existing and proposed bicycle/

pedestrian facilities• Develop rail-trail resources in communities as well as on a regional

level• Develop off-road bicycle/pedestrian facilities across the region to

stimulate travel and tourism interest in the Southern AllegheniesRegion

• Improve roadways through partnership with PennDOT to betterserve bicycle/pedestrian access — including but not limited to CycleSouthern Alleghenies and Bicycle PA routes

• Improve pedestrian access in population centers in a four counties.• Develop media/education/promotional strategies and materials to

promote bicycle/pedestrian activities as a resource to generate eco-nomic development through travel and tourism

• Continue bicycle/pedestrian planning efforts

4.04.04.04.04.0 TransporTransporTransporTransporTransportation Route Mappingtation Route Mappingtation Route Mappingtation Route Mappingtation Route MappingThe identification of existing and proposed bicycle and pedestrian facilities isan essential component of any bicycle and pedestrian plan. An inventory ofthe facilities within the region was compiled by committee members anddigitally mapped by Southern Alleghenies Planning & Development Com-mission. (SAP&DC) The mapping process served as one component ofidentifying any “gaps” or conflicts in the region’s bicycle/pedestrian networkthat need mitigated and/or minimized. Source materials for the map include

Vision Statement:a statement thatoutlines a plan’sidentity with valuesand broad goals

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Southern Alleghenies Transportation Information System (TIS) Phase II GISDatabase Project, Southwestern Pennsylvania Heritage and PreservationCommission (SPHPC) Heritage Trails Map, PennDOT Type 10 maps,Southern Alleghenies Pennsylvania Outdoors Discovery Map. The mapidentifies existing routes as well as proposed facilities. Any proposed facilityidentified on the map could potentially be a candidate for a future transpor-tation improvement project or betterment.

The bicycle transportation routes map represents the routes identified by theCommittee. The map file should be used as a planning tool and should notbe used as a route finding document by the public. Regular updates to themap should be conducted to both monitor progress and identify opportuni-ties.

5.15.15.15.15.1 ExistingExistingExistingExistingExisting Opportunities / Resources Opportunities / Resources Opportunities / Resources Opportunities / Resources Opportunities / ResourcesBicycle and pedestrian projects are broadly eligible for funding from mostmajor Federal-aid highway, transit, safety, and other programs. Bicycleprojects must be principally for transportation, rather than recreation pur-poses and must be designed and located pursuant to the transportation plansrequired of States and Metropolitan Planning Organizations (MPOs) andLocal Development Districts (LDDs).

Projects designed to serve recreational needs can be funded through numer-ous sources also listed with DCNR grants representing the most significantsource. Enhancement dollars, however, may be attained with proper projectplanning.

5.1.15.1.15.1.15.1.15.1.1 TEA-21TEA-21TEA-21TEA-21TEA-21In June 1998, a new federal surface transportation funding act was signedinto law. The Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century, or TEA-21, waslandmark legislation. It not only continued the visionary policies of itspredecessor, ISTEA, but it provided more funding than ever before for non-motorized transportation modes, specifically, bicycle and pedestrian modes.Under the new law, Pennsylvania will receive nearly $1.3 billion in transpor-tation funding, a significant increase over ISTEA levels.

TEA-21 has extended the legislation of its predecessor by continuing themultimodal emphasis of transportation planning and programming on non-motorized modes of travel, particularly for bicyclists and pedestrians. In fact,there is a greater realization and even a greater receptiveness among transpor-tation professionals to improve the bicycle and pedestrian modes and in sodoing, improve the overall transportation system.

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5 . 1 . 25 . 1 . 25 . 1 . 25 . 1 . 25 . 1 . 2 Keystone Planning, Implementation andKeystone Planning, Implementation andKeystone Planning, Implementation andKeystone Planning, Implementation andKeystone Planning, Implementation andTTTTTechnical Assistance (PITechnical Assistance (PITechnical Assistance (PITechnical Assistance (PITechnical Assistance (PITAAAAA) Program) Program) Program) Program) ProgramWithin the PITA Program are three separate programs of interest to thegreenways and trail community:• Community Grants• Rails-to-Trails Grants• Rivers Conservation Grants.

Keystone Community Grants provide funds for comprehensive recreation,park and open space plans, greenway plans, site master plans for neighbor-hood or regional parks, county natural area inventories, and peer-to-peertechnical assistance. Municipal governments (including counties), councilsof government (COGs) and some authorities are the only eligible applicants.

Rails-to-Trails Grants may be requested by appropriate nonprofit organiza-tions, as well as municipalities. Money is provided for rail-trail feasibilitystudies and master plans and for special-purpose studies, such as studies ofbridges and tunnels of special concern.

Rivers Conservation Grants are available to municipalities and appropriatenonprofit organizations for conducting watershed and river corridor studiesand plans, many of which include greenway and trail elements.

5.1.35.1.35.1.35.1.35.1.3 Keystone Acquisition and Development Grant ProgramsKeystone Acquisition and Development Grant ProgramsKeystone Acquisition and Development Grant ProgramsKeystone Acquisition and Development Grant ProgramsKeystone Acquisition and Development Grant Programs(DCNR)(DCNR)(DCNR)(DCNR)(DCNR)The Keystone Acquisition and Development Grants Program includes threecomponents:• Community Grants• Rails-to-Trails Grants• Rivers Conservation Grants

Although these bear the same names as grant programs under the PITAgrants, they are separate programs with distinct features.

Under the Community Program, municipalities, COGs and some authoritiesare the only eligible applicants. These grants provide funding for the pur-chase of land for park, recreation, or conservation purposes and the rehabili-tation and development of park and recreation areas and facilities, includinggreenways and trails.

The Rails-to-Trails Program is open to municipalities and nonprofit organi-zations. Grant funds may be used for acquisition of abandoned railroadrights-of-way and adjacent land, and to develop them for recreational trail

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use.

Under the Rivers Conservation Program, funding is available to both municipali-ties and appropriate organizations for acquisition and development projectsrecommended in an approved Rivers Conservation Plan (such as those createdunder the PITA Program). To be eligible for acquisition or developmentfunding, the Rivers Conservation Plan must be listed in the Pennsylvania RiversRegistry.

5.1.45.1.45.1.45.1.45.1.4 The Keystone Land Trust Program (DCNR) The Keystone Land Trust Program (DCNR) The Keystone Land Trust Program (DCNR) The Keystone Land Trust Program (DCNR) The Keystone Land Trust Program (DCNR)DCNR’s Land Trust Grant Program provides grants to nonprofit land trusts’conservancies and organizations. The funds require a 50-percent match andare used for acquisition and planning of open space and critical natural areasthat face imminent loss. Lands must be open to public use and the acquisi-tion must be coordinated with the communities or counties in which theproperty is located.

Although these funds are targeted to protecting critical habitat with threat-ened species, many of these lands also provide key open space, greenway,bikeway, trail and heritage corridor opportunities and connections ingreenway systems. Many land trusts and conservancies are undertakinggreenway initiatives and are willing partners in greenway projects.

5.1.55.1.55.1.55.1.55.1.5 The Recreational Trails Program (DCNR) The Recreational Trails Program (DCNR) The Recreational Trails Program (DCNR) The Recreational Trails Program (DCNR) The Recreational Trails Program (DCNR)The Recreational Trails Program is administered by DCNR but uses FederalHighway Administration (FHWA) funds. The ISTEA legislation includedthe Symms National Recreational Trails Act, and these grants are sometimesreferred to as “Symms Grants.”

Recreational Trails Program grants are available to federal and state agencies,municipal government, organizations, and even private individuals. Grantmoney may be used for a variety of purposes, including work on trails tomitigate or minimize the impact on the natural environment, provide urbantrail linkages, and develop trail-side and trail-head facilities. These grants alsorequire a 50-percent local match. DCNR has a detailed grant applicationmanual that includes necessary application procedures, forms, worksheets,sample contracts and agreements, and as well as an environmental surveyform. DCNR also provides technical assistance and training workshops forinterested applicants.

5.1.65.1.65.1.65.1.65.1.6 Heritage Parks Program (DCNR)Heritage Parks Program (DCNR)Heritage Parks Program (DCNR)Heritage Parks Program (DCNR)Heritage Parks Program (DCNR)DCNR administers the Heritage Parks Program in conjunction with a task

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force of other state agencies and nonprofit organizations. Annual appropriationsfrom the General Assembly are used to fund study, planning, implementationand management projects in officially designated State Heritage Parks in theCommonwealth. As of this writing, Pennsylvania has eight designated StateHeritage Parks, including the Lincoln Highway Corridor in the SouthernAlleghenies Region. Additional sites are being studied and are likely to beincluded in the system soon.

Heritage Parks are large multi-county corridor and geographic areas thatcontain heritage elements of national or state significance related to industrialthemes, such as oil, steel, coal, railroads, and transportation. Throughpublic-private partnerships and a bottom-up grassroots public participationprocess, regional management action plans are completed to protect andenhance the natural, cultural, recreational, historic and scenic resources of thearea. These resources are interpreted, packaged and promoted to createeconomic development opportunities based on tourism for the area.

Most of the designated State Heritage Parks and those being planned includegreenways, trails and river corridor projects in their regional strategies forpreservation, enhancement, interpretation, education and promotion. Someof the state’s best greenway corridors are found in State Heritage Parks andhave benefited from funding through the program. Each Heritage Park isrun by a manager and staff, who are available to discuss greenways, trail,blueway and heritage corridor initiatives in their regions. More informationabout the state’s system of Heritage Parks (and the managers’ telephonenumbers) is available from the Department’s central office in Harrisburg orfrom the DCNR Web Page at www.dcnr.state.pa.us/recreation/heritage/heritage.htm.

5.1.75.1.75.1.75.1.75.1.7 The TransporThe TransporThe TransporThe TransporThe Transportation Enhancements Program (PennDOT)tation Enhancements Program (PennDOT)tation Enhancements Program (PennDOT)tation Enhancements Program (PennDOT)tation Enhancements Program (PennDOT)The Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act of 1991, known by theacronym ISTEA, included funding for nontraditional transportation im-provements which were categorized as transportation enhancements. Thisact provided $3.3 billion nationwide over the six-year life of the Act forimprovements such as pedestrian and bicycle routes, preservation of historictransportation structures, scenic beautification associated with transportationfacilities, and other environmentally-friendly transportation projects. ISTEAexpired at the conclusion of the federal fiscal year on September 30, 1997,but the transportation enhancements provisions have been included in itssuccessor, TEA 21.

Transportation enhancements projects are eligible for a maximum of 80%federal funding. Pennsylvania’s program has been structured to have projectsponsors fund the pre-construction phases of work; that is the design, right-of-way acquisition, and utility relocation work, with non-federal funding,

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and to then provide 100% federal funding for the construction phase. Thisgenerally results in an approximate 80/20 cost-sharing arrangement.

PennDOT provides staff to administer the program and to provide adviceand technical assistance as necessary. Project sponsors are expected to securethe necessary engineering or architectural expertise to develop and imple-ment the transportation enhancements projects.

5.1.85.1.85.1.85.1.85.1.8 Federal-aid Highway ProgramFederal-aid Highway ProgramFederal-aid Highway ProgramFederal-aid Highway ProgramFederal-aid Highway ProgramNational Highway System (NHS) funds may be used to construct bicycletransportation facilities and pedestrian walkways on land adjacent to anyhighway on the National Highway System, including Interstate highways.

Surface Transportation Program (STP) funds may be used for either theconstruction of bicycle transportation facilities and pedestrian walkways, ornon-construction projects, such as maps, brochures, and public serviceannouncements related to safe bicycle use and walking. TEA-21 adds themodification of public sidewalks to comply with the Americans with Dis-abilities Act as an activity that is specifically eligible for the use of these funds.

Ten percent of each State’s annual STP funds are set-aside for TransportationEnhancement Activities (TEAs). The law provides a specific list of activitiesthat are eligible TEAs and this includes: provision of facilities for bicycles andpedestrians, provision of safety and educational activities for bicyclists andpedestrians, and the preservation of abandoned railway corridors (includingthe conversion and use thereof for bicycle and pedestrian trails).Another ten percent of each State’s STP funds is set-aside for safety-relatedprograms.

The Hazard Elimination and Railway-Highway Crossing programs, are twoprograms under the safety category which address bicycle and pedestriansafety issues. Each State is required to implement a Hazard EliminationProgram to identify and correct locations that may constitute a danger tomotorists, bicyclists, and pedestrians. Funds may be used for activities includ-ing a survey of hazardous locations and for projects on any publicly ownedbicycle or pedestrian pathway or trail, or any safety-related traffic calmingmeasure. Improvements to railway-highway crossings shall take into accountbicycle safety.

Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Improvement Program funds maybe used for either the construction of bicycle transportation facilities andpedestrian walkways, or non-construction projects (such as maps, brochures,and public service announcements) related to safe bicycle use.

Recreational Trails program funds may be used for all kinds of trail projects.Of the funds apportioned to a State, 30 percent must be used for motorizedtrail uses, 30 percent for non-motorized trail uses, and 40 percent for diverse

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trail uses (any combination). Provisions for pedestrians and bicyclists are eligibleunder the various categories of the Federal Lands Highway Program inconjunction with roads, highways, and parkways. Priority for funding projects isdetermined by the appropriate Federal Land Agency or Tribal government.

National Scenic Byways Program funds may be used for construction alonga scenic byway of a facility for bicyclists and pedestrians.

High Priority Projects and Designated Transportation EnhancementActivities identified by TEA-21 include numerous bicycle, pedestrian, trail,and traffic calming projects in communities throughout the country.

5.1.95.1.95.1.95.1.95.1.9 Federal Transit ProgramFederal Transit ProgramFederal Transit ProgramFederal Transit ProgramFederal Transit ProgramTitle 49 U.S.C. (as amended by TEA-21) allows the Urbanized Area FormulaGrants, Capital Investment Grants and Loans, and Formula Program forOther than Urbanized Area transit funds to be used for improving bicycleand pedestrian access to transit facilities and vehicles. Eligible activitiesinclude investments in pedestrian and bicycle access to a mass transportationfacility that establishes or enhances coordination between mass transportationand other transportation.

TEA-21 also created a Transit Enhancement Activity program with a onepercent set-aside of Urbanized Area Formula Grant funds designated for,among other things, pedestrian access and walkways, and bicycle access,including bicycle storage facilities and installing equipment for transportingbicycles on mass transportation vehicles.

5.1.105.1.105.1.105.1.105.1.10 Federal / State Matching RequirementsFederal / State Matching RequirementsFederal / State Matching RequirementsFederal / State Matching RequirementsFederal / State Matching RequirementsIn general, the Federal share of the costs of transportation projects is 80percent with a 20 percent State or local match. However, there are a numberof exceptions to this rule.

Federal Lands Highway projects are 100 percent Federally funded.

Bicycle-related Transit Enhancement Activities are 95 percent Federallyfunded.

Hazard elimination projects are 90 percent Federally funded. Bicycle-relatedtransit projects (other than Transit Enhancement Activities) may be up to 90percent Federally funded.

Individual Transportation Enhancement Activity projects under the STP canhave a match higher or lower than 80 percent. However, the overall Federalshare of each State’s Transportation Enhancement Program must be 80percent.

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Federal and state sponsors stress the importance of community support forprojects receiving funding. Therefore, communities that provide more thanthe minimum 20% match may receive higher consideration of their projects.

The State and/or local funds used to match Federal-aid highway projects mayinclude in-kind contributions (such as donations). Funds from other Federalprograms may also be used to match Transportation Enhancement, ScenicByways, and Recreational Trails program funds. A Federal agency projectsponsor may provide matching funds to Recreational Trails funds providedthe Federal share does not exceed 95 percent.

5.2.05.2.05.2.05.2.05.2.0 Foundation SupportFoundation SupportFoundation SupportFoundation SupportFoundation Support

5.2.15.2.15.2.15.2.15.2.1 Revisions to the State Vehicle CodeRevisions to the State Vehicle CodeRevisions to the State Vehicle CodeRevisions to the State Vehicle CodeRevisions to the State Vehicle CodeIn December 1998, Title 75 of the State Vehicle Code was amended to allowfor more bicycle and pedestrian-friendly policies. Highlights of the billinclude:• The legalization of installing bicycle racks on buses.• Motorized wheelchairs are no longer considered motor vehicles.• Both motorized as well as hand powered wheelchairs are now permit-

ted on sidewalks but are not considered pedestrians.• The mandatory use of available bike paths and lanes has been elimin-

ated. Prior to this amendment to the Pennsylvania Vehicle Code, abicycle was required to use a bicycle path or lane if one was availableand usable adjacent to the road on which the bicycle was travelling.

• The subsection authorizing use of shoulders for bicycle travel wasamended to require that all turns be made in accordance with Section3331, which specifies the required lane position and method formaking turns.

These changes went into effect in February 1999.

In addition, an earlier bill deleted the problematic language that requiredbicycles to travel as far to the right “as practicable,” and replaced it withlanguage that requires bicycles that are travelling at slower than the prevailingspeed of traffic to keep to the right, while permitting bicycles to make move-ments consistent with their intended travel route.

5.2.35.2.35.2.35.2.35.2.3 Bicycle PBicycle PBicycle PBicycle PBicycle PAAAAA“BicyclePA,” the movement to sign and designate multiple intrastate bicycleroutes in Pennsylvania, continues. The BicyclePA effort was initiated by thePennsylvania Pedalcycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee (PPAC) and

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involves the development of six cross-state, “border to border” bicycle routes.The six BicyclePA routes will use existing public roads and some rail trails toguide bicyclists through the state. Each of the six routes has an appointed“route development coordinator” who is in charge of soliciting input fromknowledgeable individuals and designing a good route for bicyclists. Theroutes are designed for competent road bicyclists who may undertake a longdistance cycle touring trip. Not all BicyclePA routes will have perfect shoul-ders or be entirely free of truck traffic. They are designed to accommodatethe touring bicyclist.

BicyclePA includes two routes through the Southern Alleghenies, Routes Gand S. Approximately $800 thousand dollars was approved through theTransportation Enhancement Program to fund the signing portion of thisproject. Acceptance of this application means that the six initial routes in thestate will be furnished with “BicyclePA” signs sometime during the year2000.

5.2.45.2.45.2.45.2.45.2.4 Statewide Bicycle & Pedestrian Master PlanStatewide Bicycle & Pedestrian Master PlanStatewide Bicycle & Pedestrian Master PlanStatewide Bicycle & Pedestrian Master PlanStatewide Bicycle & Pedestrian Master PlanThe Statewide Bicycle & Pedestrian Master Plan for Pennsylvania was createdin 1996 as an update to the 1976 Bicycling in Pennsylvania Plan. TheMaster Plan sets policy for integrating bicycles and pedestrians into thecurrent transportation system by creating a series of goals and objectives thatcan be used as a guide to improve existing roads to create a better bicyclingand walking environment for the future. As part of the Master Plan, the stateadopted the goals of the National Bicycling and Walking Study published bythe U.S Department of Transportation to double the percentage of trips byfoot and bicycle, from a national average of 7.9 percent to 15.8 percent of alltrips and to reduce the number of injuries and fatalities suffered by bicyclistsand pedestrians by 10 percent.

As part of the implementation of its Master Plan, PennDOT sponsoredPedestrian and Bicyclist Safety and Accommodation training sessions in fivelocations around the state: Bridgeville, Franklin, Allentown, Upper MerionTownship and Harrisburg. The majority of invitees were civil engineers anddesigners who build and design projects but have limited access to the latestbicycle/pedestrian facilities design information.

As part of implementing its Master plan, PennDOT provided GannettFleming as a consultant to assist planning regions (including the NorthernTier) in the creation of bicycle and pedestrian plans.

Copies of the Statewide Bicycle & Pedestrian Master Plan for Pennsylvaniaand the Pedestrian and Bicyclist Safety and Accommodation training manualare available by contacting Dave Bachman, PennDOT Pedestrian/BicycleCoordinator, at (717)783-8444.

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5.2.55.2.55.2.55.2.55.2.5 AASHTO Guide for the Development of Bicycle FacilitiesAASHTO Guide for the Development of Bicycle FacilitiesAASHTO Guide for the Development of Bicycle FacilitiesAASHTO Guide for the Development of Bicycle FacilitiesAASHTO Guide for the Development of Bicycle FacilitiesIn 1999, AASHTO (American Association of State Highway TransportationOfficials) published the Guide for the Development of Bicycle Facilities toprovide information on the development of facilities to enhance and encour-age safe bicycle travel. By presenting sound guidelines that will be valuable inattaining good design that is sensitive to the needs of both bicyclists andother highway users, the Guide aims to accommodate bicycle traffic in mostriding environments. AASHTO guidelines should be used in the design andimprovement of all bicycle facilities in the Northern Tier.

5.2.65.2.65.2.65.2.65.2.6 Development of Statewide Greenways Plan Development of Statewide Greenways Plan Development of Statewide Greenways Plan Development of Statewide Greenways Plan Development of Statewide Greenways PlanGovernor Ridge established the Pennsylvania Greenways Partnership Com-mission in April 1998. The purpose of the commission is to promote thedevelopment of an interconnected greenways network throughout Pennsylva-nia.

One of the main goals of the commission is to establish an operating frame-work or focal point for coordinating greenway development activities in theKeystone State. An established greenway program would serve local andregional governments and private sector organizations who implementgreenway initiatives by bringing greenway related information and resourcesall under one roof.

The Commission is working towards developing a Statewide GreenwaysAction Plan which will culminate in the development of a final report byFebruary 2001.

6.06.06.06.06.0 Action PlansAction PlansAction PlansAction PlansAction PlansA plan is only as strong as its related action or implementation component.As a matter of good public policy and economic common sense, “getting itdone” needs to be paired with “doing it right.” The development of anaction plan constitutes a proactive, strategic approach to moving from theplanning and design stages to implementation and construction (if appli-cable). As important challenges and decisions are faced in the months andyears ahead, the action plan should be the frame of reference to which theregion’s elected officials and transportation planning officials can refer inimplementing new policies and programming nontraditional transportationprojects. The purpose of the action plans will be to provide the frameworkfor many of the decisions that will need to be made along the way. Theaction plan also provides the basis for tracking progress over time.

As part of the plan’s data collection, a meeting was held to identify possiblebicycle/pedestrian projects.

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Planners described the planning process, from the implementation ofPennDOT’s 1996 Statewide Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan to how thedevelopment of the region’s bicycle and pedestrian plan ties into the overalllong range planning process. Committee members were offered the opportu-nity to participate in a brainstorming session, where suggested projects andpolicies were listed. Committee members then broke into groups to createaction plans for seven example projects. A list of the committee’s projectsuggestions and associated action plans for the example projects follows:

Bedford County1. Educate and cooperate with public land managers to gain approval for off-road trailsystems

2. Identify possible rail-with-trail resources

3. Identify linkages between existing and proposed facilities

4. Improve surface of STAR Route rail-trail

5. Improve roadway surface and shoulders along the “Path of Progress” in the region.

6. Improve access in Bedford — particularly handicap access

7. Promote Bedford as the intersection of Bicycle PA Routes G and S

8. Develop the Huntingdon-Bedford-Raystown Greenway

9. Develop off-road facility infrastructure — like parking areas and signage

10. Develop trail linkage between Bedford and Old Bedford Village

11. Create trailhead access to STAR Route in Breezewood

12. Consider all Cycle Southern Allegheny routes for improvement

13. Install Route S signage

14. Sign Route G connections with Cycle Southern Allegheny routes — particularly the“Covered Bridge” route.

15. Develop bike/ped outreach/education program with Laurel Highlands Off-Road BicycleAssociation, Keystone Trails, etc. to promote on and off-road facilities

16. Promote facilities with media outreach/web development

17. Target college locales for promotional focus

18. Widen and pave the shoulders on designated bicycle routes throughout the region,especially Pennsylvania Routes “G” and “S”.

19. Encourage PennDOT to make bicycle and pedestrian access considerations a part ofevery highway and bridge project in the region.

Fulton County1. Educate and cooperate with public land managers to gain approval for off-road trailsystems


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4. Improve surface of STAR Route rail-trail


6. Develop the Reichley Brothers’ Rail-Trail








14. Encourage PennDOT to make bicycle and pedestrian access considerations a part ofevery highway and bridge project in the region.

Huntingdon County1. Develop the Southern Alleghenies’ portion (the Juniata River Trail) of the Pittsburgh toHarrisburg Mainline Greenway — Pennsylvania’s State Millenium Trail

2. Educate and cooperate with public land managers to gain approval for off-road trailsystems




6. Improve pedestrian access in Huntingdon — particularly the crossing of Route 22

7. Develop the Huntington-Bedford-Raystown Greenway


9. Explore development possibilities of rail-with-trail along Amtrak mainline






15. Provide a paved bicycle route along PA 26 in northern Huntingdon County usingeither paved shoulders or parallel bikeway.

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16. Encourage PennDOT to make bicycle and pedestrian access considerations a part of everyhighway and bridge project in the region.

Somerset County1. Continue development of the Allegheny Highlands Trail

2. Educate and cooperate with public land managers to gain approval for off-road trail systems



5. Improve roadway conditions on Route S — especially from Somerset to Rockwood

6. Improve roadway surface and facilities on Route 985 — a high priority bicycle route.


8. Improve pedestrian access in Somerset — particularly the crossing of Route 601

9. Establish best link between the Allegheny Highlands Trail and the Cycle Southern AlleghenyRoute to the north


11. Explore development possibilities of trail system about Mt. Davis

12. Improve shoulders along identified routes from Somerset the Alleghenies Highland Trail inRockwood

13. Improve roadway access to Whitewater Park / Stony Creek Greenway near Windber

14. Improve shoulder on segments of Route 160 per county input



17. Improve roadways/facilities along routes linking the Allegheny Highland Trail in Rockwoodwith nearby state parks, resorts, and campgrounds.




21. Widen and pave the shoulders on designated bicycle routes throughout the region, especiallyPennsylvania Routes “G” and “S”.

22. Encourage PennDOT to make bicycle and pedestrian access considerations a part of everyhighway and bridge project in the region. Including incorporating shoulder widening in anyhighway improvement project

Example Action 1: Develop Juniata River Trail / Mainline Greenway

1. Project Description: The revitalization of the former canal for water recreationand development of a multiuse bicycle/ pedestrian trail along the Juniata River traversing

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Huntingdon County.

2. Relationship to Vision and Goals: Revitalizing the former canal will bringmore recreation and tourism to the area. It will link communities along thegreenway.

3. Strategies and Actions to Implement: Revitalize the canal corridorthrough a cooperative effort between state and local agencies as well as non-profit organizations. Actions to initiate include: inventory corridor attributes,identify opportunities/challenges, seek funding for and initiate feasibility study(s),develop management strategy, etc.

4. Interagency Coordination:

• Huntingdon County Planning Commission• Huntingdon County Visitors Bureau• Huntingdon County Business and Industry• Township Supervisors and Borough Managers located along the trail• Southern Alleghenies Tourism Confederation

5. Resource Issues and Timing: Funding may come from the Transporta-tion Enhancement Project (TEP), the PennDOT Transportation ImprovementProgram (TIP) and recreational grants. This project could be included in theSAPDC 2003-2006 TIP. Since the corridor is part of the Pittsburgh to Harris-burg Mainline Greenway, timing will coincide with the development of thestatewide greenway.

6. Benefits and Impacts: Businesses along the trail and in the area willbenefit by increased tourism. Users of this multiuse trail will benefit from in-creased recreational opportunities.

7. Progress and Performance Measurement/ Monitoring: SAP&DC willperform its function as a Rural Planning Organization (RPO) by identifying,prioritizing, planning and programming projects.

Example Action 2: Promote Bicycle PA Routes G & S Crossing inBedford

1. Project Description: In Bedford Borough, Bicycle PA Routes G & Sintersect to form a point of interest for cycling tourists. The project will marketthe boroughs’ businesses in the vicinity of the Bicycle Routes G & S intersec-tion.

2. Relationship to Vision and Goals: By promoting this bicycle intersectionit will allow for local businesses to attract tourists and generate positive eco-nomic impact.

3. Strategies and Actions to Implement: erect a kiosk at the intersection ofthe G & S bicycle routes. The kiosk could inform the visitors of the various

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businesses/ establishments. The construction of a pavilion and bike racks willalso aid in accommodating the bicyclists.


• Bedford County Planning Commission• Bedford County Office of Economic Development• Bedford County Chamber of Commerce• Bedford Borough Manager• Bedford Conference and Visitors Bureau• Bedford Area Business Association• SAP&DC Tourism Confederation

5. Resource Issues and Timing: Funding by the Transportation Enhance-ment Program and Tourism Grants. Timing is not a big issue since this is not alarge project.

6. Benefits and Impacts: The businesses in the area will benefit economi-cally. The tourists/ bicyclists will benefit by knowing what facilities are availableto access at this key intersection.

7. Progress and Performance: SAP&DC will perform its actions as a RuralPlanning Organization (RPO) by identifying, prioritizing, programming andplanning projects into the transportation planning process.

Example Action 3: Better Huntingdon Pedestrian Access

1. Project Description: The goal is to create safer pedestrian access in theborough of Huntingdon and adjacent Smithfield Township. Included in this issafer access across Route 22, the railroad tracks and the Juniata River.

2. Relationship to Vision and Goals: By creating safer pedestrian access tothe mentioned areas this will allow employees and residents to access thecommercial corridor along Route 22.

3. Strategies and Actions to Implement: Improve sidewalks along theRoute 22 commercial corridor. Also improve pedestrian crossing of theJuniata River, the railroad tracks and Route 22.


• Huntingdon County Planning Commission• Huntingdon County Business and Industry• Huntingdon Borough Manager• Smithfield Township Supervisors• PennDOT• Human Service Agencies

5. Resource Issues and Timing: Funding can come from the Transporta-tion Enhancement Program (TEP) and the PennDOT Transportation Im-

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provement Program (TIP). This project could be included in the SAP&DC 2003-2006 TIP.

6. Benefits and Impacts: Improved and safer access for pedestrians.Increased economic development because pedestrians can access both theirworkplaces and shopping centers without the use of an automobile.

7. Progress and Performance Measurement/ Monitoring: SAP&DC willperform its function as a Rural Planning Organization (RPO) by identifying,prioritizing, planning and programming projects.

Example Action 4: Improve Routes G & S / Path of ProgressShoulder Conditions

1. Project Description: The project will be the upgrading of existingroads to provide an area for bicyclists using the Path of Progress or one of theBicyclePA routes G or S. The project will mainly consist of constructing ofpaved shoulders sufficient enough to provide a safe route to ride.

2. Relationship to Vision and Goals: The upgrading of shoulders willprovide a safe linear connection to various towns and attractions for bicy-clists. This improvement will also compliment the signage that has beenestablished and installed designating the bicycle routes.

3. Strategies and Actions to Implement: Because of the amount of road-way involved, it would be impossible to have one project developed andimplemented that will create all of the shoulder improvements. Therefore, itwill be necessary to develop and nurture a culture in PennDOT and anymunicipality impacted through signing, to be aware of the needs of thecyclists and to program projects as funding permits . This action will serve tosystematically upgrade the routes and to ingrain in the minds that theseroutes will need to be reviewed more frequently, along with an increasedattention for problems.


• PennDOT• SAP&DC

5. Resource Issues and Timing: Funding will be the biggest issue. SincePennDOT still needs to maintain its entire system, it will be impossible tofund all of the needed improvements at any one time. Therefore, a balancewill need to be brokered that will allow PennDOT to do repairs and at thesame time designate funds toward bicycle route improvements.

6. Benefits and Impacts: As mentioned earlier, PennDOT will receive abenefit from the physical improvement itself, allowing the pavement longerprotection and increasing its life expectancy. They will also receive an added

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safety benefit from providing an area for the cyclists separate from the automo-biles. Although not physically separated, the space provided will give the cyclistan area in which to operate his bicycle safely and uninhibited. This action willgreatly reduce the potential of car / bicycle crashes that existed prior to theimprovements. The impacts should all be positive, since any improvement tothe roadway is a benefit to all that use it regardless of type.

7. Progress and Performance Measurement/ Monitoring: Both PennDOTand Southern Alleghenies will need to develop a list of road segments involvedand their current physical status. This will aid in the development of a prioritylist to guide both parties in the planning and programming of shoulder upgradeprojects.

Example Action 5: Public Land Off-Road Facility Policy Outreach

1. Project Description: The project will focus on gaining trail develop-ment and use approval from the region’s public land managers as there is nocurrent policy pertaining to off-road cycling.

2. Relationship to Vision and Goals: A cooperative effort with thepublic land managers to develop a mountain bike use policy is the founda-tion of off-road facility development in the Southern Alleghenies Region.

3. Strategies and Actions to Implement: Inform public land managers ofpositive impacts of mountain bike use. The project must focus secondarily uponeducation of mountain bike users as well as other trail users pertaining to propertrail etiquette.


• Eight County Off Road Bicycle Network Committee• Laurel Highlands off Road Bicycle Association (LHORBA)• DCNR (State Park and Gameland personnel)• SAP&DC• PennDOT

5. Resource Issues and Timing: Funding to produce educational mediaor to otherwise drive this effort may be attained through DCNR programswith a recreational aspect, and a transportation aspect to a lesser extent. Localfunds may also be available. Local trail advocates will need to offer time tointeract with land managers. The effort must start immediately as off-roadfacility development is identified by the committee as high priority

6. Benefits and Impacts: Off road cycling use offers frequent trailmaintenance by organized groups and by use, fuels economic development,provides recreational opportunities, etc. Impacts associated with off-roadcycling include: increased possibility of trail erosion and increased possibilityof user conflict.

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7. Progress and Performance Measurement/ Monitoring: Progress may bemeasured by total miles of trail open to mountain bike use. Keeping a tally ofsuch a number offers the region ammunition to attract out-of-town users.

Example Action 6: Identify Possible Rail-with-Trail Projects

1. Project Description: The project will focus on exploring active railcorridors suited to accommodate an adjacent trail.

2. Relationship to Vision and Goals: The committee identified both rail-trail development and regional linkage as high priority. Such projects serve bothneeds.

3. Strategies and Actions to Implement: Identify possible corridors,Inventory corridor attributes, Contact current operator, Explore design issues —such as separation techniques, Explore trail management issues — such asliability insurance.


• Eight County Off Road Bicycle Network Committee• Laurel Highlands off Road Bicycle Association (LHORBA)• DCNR (State Park and Gameland personnel)• SAP&DC• Rails-to-Trails Conservancy Pennsylvania Field Office• Local Rail-Trail organization(s)

5. Resource Issues and Timing: Funding to produce a feasibility studyfor possible rail-with-trails can be found through the Enhancements Programas well as any transportation-based and/or recreation-based grant programs.In most cases grants require matching funds on a local level. Exploration ofactive corridors in the Southern Allegheny Region should start immediatelywith funding acquisition soon to follow.

6. Benefits and Impacts: : Rail-trails offer health and fitness opportunities toa community as well as positive economic impact from travel and tourism expen-ditures.

7. Progress and Performance Measurement/ Monitoring: Rail-with-trailprojects, project miles, open trails, open miles of trail.

Example Action 7: Future Bike / Ped Planning Efforts Future Bike / Ped Planning Efforts Future Bike / Ped Planning Efforts Future Bike / Ped Planning Efforts Future Bike / Ped Planning Efforts

1. Project Description: Sustainability of the Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan

2. Relationship to Vision and Goals: It will act as a goal itself for thegroup to achieve and maintain.

3. Strategies and Actions to Implement: Continue to update the plan

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through coordination with the SAP&DC Rural Transportation Technical Commit-tee (RTTC) and the Rural Transportation Coordinating Committee (RTCC).The plan’s bicycle /pedestrian mapping will also be updated through this pro-cess.

4. Interagency Coordination: SAP&DC RTTC, RTCC, and the SAPDCBicycle/Pedestrian Sub-Committee

5. Resource Issues and Timing: The plan will be discussed during theregular quarterly meetings of the RTTC and RTCC.

6. Benefits and Impacts: By continually updating the plan it will allow for aliving document that can be used for planning purposes for the SAP&DC ruralcounties.

7. Progress and Performance Measurement/Monitoring: SAP&DC’s RTTCand RTCC will monitor the progress of this bicycle/pedestrian plan.

7 ConclusionThe Southern Alleghenies Bicycle and Pedestrian Transportation Plan repre-sents a significant first step in “mainstreaming” bicycle and pedestrian modes oftransportation into the transportation planning process.

The “action steps” of the Plan should be dynamic and ongoing in nature, andsubject to periodic review and revision by the Southern Alleghenies Bicycle andPedestrian Transportation Committee. This Plan should be considered as bothan amendment to and element of the region’s Long Range Transportation Plan.The Long Range Transportation Plan serves as the “umbrella” or planningframework for all other related transportation plans in the county. As such, theSouthern Alleghenies Bicycle and Pedestrian Transportation Plan should bereviewed and revised in step with each update afforded to the overall plan.

It is the desire of the Southern Alleghenies Bicycle and Pedestrian Committeethat this plan will provide the planning basis necessary to achieve the plan’soverall plan.

It is the desire of the Southern Alleghenies Bicycle and Pedestrian Committeethat this plan will provide the planning basis necessary to achieve the plan’sgoals. It should be viewed as a policy tool that municipalities, the SAP&DC,and PennDOT together can use to encourage and support these non-motorizedmodes of transportation.

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APPENDIX II

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DISADVANTAGED BUSINESS ENTERPRISE REQUIREMENTS

I. DBE GOAL

The Southern Alleghenies Planning and Development Commission has not established, in connection with this contract, a Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) goal for the utilization of for profit, small business concerns that are 51% owned and controlled by socially and economically disadvantaged (disadvantaged) individuals certified by the PA Unified Certification Program (PA UCP) as DBEs. For the purposes of this document, the term ‘bid’ refers to the response to a request for proposal, request for quote, or invitation for bid. As there has been no DBE goal established by SAP&DC, selected vendors will be required to make a DBE good faith effort (GFE) to identify, solicit, and utilize DBEs and Small Business Enterprises (SBEs).

The selected vendor shall include the following provisions (paragraphs a through d) in every subcontract. These provisions shall be binding upon the selected vendor as well each subcontractor, supplier, service provider or consultant. (a) Policy for Federally-Funded Projects. It is the policy of the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), the PA Department of Transportation, and the SAP&DC that DBEs, as defined in 49 CFR Part 26, (Part 26) and this specification, be afforded the opportunity to participate in the performance of contracts financed in whole or in part with Federal funds under this contract. Consequently, the DBE requirements of Part 26, apply to this contract. (b) DBE Obligation. The selected vendor will take all necessary and reasonable steps to ensure that DBEs have the opportunity to compete for and to perform contracts. The selected vendor shall not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, or sex in the award and performance of SAP&DC contracts. (c) Failure to Comply with DBE Requirements. Failure to carry out the requirements as specified constitutes a breach of contract and may result in termination of the contract, being barred from bidding on SAP&DC contracts for up to three (3) years, or any other remedy that the SAP&DC deems appropriate. Failure to comply with DBE requirements may include, but is not limited to, failure to submit DBE Participation information with the bid, failure to exert a reasonable Good Faith Effort to meet the established DBE goal, or failure to realize the approved DBE participation level set forth may result in the selected vendor being declared ineligible for the contract. (d) Small Business Enterprise (SBE) Participation. The recruitment and utilization of certified SBEs serves as an additional requirement in addition to all other equal opportunity requirements of the contract. There is no SBE goal for this contract. II. DEFINITIONS The following definitions apply for terms used in this specification: (a) Certified Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE). A for-profit small business concern that meets the following requirements: 1. DBE certification from the Pennsylvania Unified Certification Program (PAUCP) as listed on www.paucp.com. 2. Meets the ownership and control requirements of the DBE certification program as set forth in Part 26. 3. Meets the Personal Net Worth requirements of the DBE certification program.

(b) Certified Small Business Enterprise (SBE). A for-profit small business concern that meets the following requirements: 1. Obtains certification as an SBE by the Department as listed on www.dotsbe.pa.gov. 2. Meets the ownership and control requirements of the SBE certification program. 3. Meets the Personal Net Worth requirements of the SBE certification program.

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http://www.paucp.com./


(c) Commercially Useful Function (CUF). A DBE performs a CUF when it is responsible for execution of the work of the contract and is carrying out its responsibilities by actually performing, managing, and supervising the work involved. To perform a CUF, the DBE must also be responsible, with respect to materials and supplies used on the contract, for negotiating price, determining quality and quantity, ordering the material, installing (where applicable), and paying for the material itself. (d) Interdisciplinary Review Team (IRT). SAP&DC will refer all GFE related matters to PennDOT’s Bureau of Equal Opportunity. A team of three (3) individuals representing the Bureaus of Equal Opportunity and representatives from the impacted business area(s) will perform the initial review of the GFE documentation and make a recommendation to the Director of the Bureau of Equal Opportunity.

(e) Committee. The GFE Review Committee.

(f) Director. Director, Bureau of Equal Opportunity. (g) DBE Participation. The work performed by DBEs on the contract and counted toward the project’s DBE goal. This information is to be submitted with the bid and if approved becomes a contractual obligation for the life of the contract. (h) Revised DBE Participation. If, during the performance of the contract the DBE Participation requires revision, the selected vendor must request approval from the SAP&DC in consultation with the Department. If approved, the Revised DBE Participation becomes a contractual obligation for the life of the contract. (i) Supplier. A manufacturer, regular dealer, or transaction expeditor/broker. 1. Manufacturer. A DBE/SBE that operates or maintains a factory or establishment that produces on the premises, the materials, supplies, articles, or equipment required under the contract and of the general character described by the specifications. 2. Regular Dealer. A DBE/SBE that owns, operates, or maintains a store, warehouse, or other establishment in which the materials, supplies, articles or equipment of the general character described by the specifications and required under the contract are bought, kept in stock, and regularly sold or leased to the public in the usual course of business. To be a regular dealer, the firm must be an established, regular business that engages, as its principal business and under its own name, in the purchase and sale or lease of the products in question. A person may be a regular dealer in such bulk items as petroleum products, steel, cement, gravel, stone, or asphalt without owning, operating, or maintaining a place of business as provided above if the person both owns and operates distribution equipment for the products. Any supplementing of regular dealers' own distribution equipment shall be by a long-term lease agreement and not on an ad hoc or contract-by-contract basis. 3. Transaction Expeditor/Broker. A DBE/SBE packager, broker, manufacturers' representatives, or other persons who arrange or expedite transactions and who arrange for material drop-shipments. (j) Service Provider. A DBE/SBE that performs professional, technical consultant, or managerial services. (k) Shortfall. The difference between the dollar amount on the approved DBE commitment and the amount of payments to the approved DBE entities. III. COUNTING DBE PARTICIPATION Utilization of certified DBEs is in addition to all other equal opportunity requirements of the contract. Count DBE Participation toward meeting the DBE Goal for federal projects as follows: If a firm is a certified DBE contractor or subcontractor at the time of submission for the bid, the total dollar value of the contract awarded to the certified DBE is counted toward the applicable DBE goal as provided below. Any services to be performed by a DBE are required to be readily identifiable to the project.

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(a) Construction.

1. Prime Contractor. In accordance with PennDOT requirements, the SAP&DC requires that all prime contractors including DBE prime contractors perform at least 50% of the work on a SAP&DC project. A DBE prime contractor will receive credit for all work performed with its own forces. The SAP&DC strongly encourages DBE prime contractors to make additional outreach efforts to solicit DBEs to perform subcontracting work on the project.

2. Subcontractor. When a DBE participates in a contract directly as a subcontractor or as a second - tier or lower-tier subcontractor, count only the value of the work actually performed by the DBE.

Count the entire amount of that portion of a contract that is performed by the DBE's own forces. Include the cost of supplies and materials obtained by the DBE for the work of the subcontract, including supplies purchased or equipment leased by the DBE.

When a DBE subcontracts part of the work of its contract to another firm, the value of the subcontracted work may be counted only if the DBE's subcontractor is itself a DBE. Work that a DBE subcontracts to a non-DBE firm does not count towards the contract’s DBE goal.

Count expenditures to a DBE contractor only if the DBE is performing a CUF on that contract. (b) Materials and Supplies. 1. DBE Manufacturer. If the materials or supplies are obtained from a DBE manufacturer, count 100% of the cost of the materials or supplies. 2. DBE Regular Dealer. If the materials or supplies are purchased from a DBE regular dealer, count 60% of the cost of the materials or supplies. 3. DBE Transaction Expeditor/Broker. If the materials or supplies are purchased from a DBE which is neither a manufacturer nor a regular dealer, count the entire amount of fees or commissions charged for assistance in the procurement of the materials and supplies, or fees or transportation charges for the delivery of materials or supplies required on a job site, provided the fees are determined to be reasonable and not excessive as compared with fees customarily allowed for similar services. Do not count any portion of the cost of the materials and supplies themselves. (c) Service Providers. Count toward the DBE Goal 100% of expenditures of DBE services including, professional, technical, consultant, or managerial services. Count fees or commissions charged for providing any bonds or insurance specifically required for the performance the contract, provided the fee is reasonable and not excessive as compared with fees customarily allowed for similar services. (d) Trucking Firms. Count 100% of trucking costs using the following factors to determine what can be counted: 1. Count if the DBE is responsible for the management and supervision of the entire trucking operation for which it is responsible on a particular contract, and there cannot be a contrived arrangement for the purpose of meeting DBE goals. 2. Count if the DBE owns and operates at least one fully licensed, insured, and operational truck used on the contract. 3. Count the total value of the transportation services the DBE provides on the contract using trucks it owns, insures, and operates using drivers it employs. 4. The DBE may lease trucks from another DBE firm, including an owner-operator who is a certified DBE. If the DBE leases trucks from another DBE, count the total value of the transportation services the lessee DBE provides on the contract.

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5. The DBE may also lease trucks from a non-DBE firm, including an owner-operator. If the DBE leases trucks from a non-DBE count only the fee or commission it paid as a result of the lease arrangement. Do not count the total value of the transportation services provided by the lessee, since these services are not provided by a DBE. 6. For purposes of this provision, a lease must indicate that the DBE has exclusive use of and control over the truck. This does not preclude the leased truck from being used for work for others during the term of the lease with the consent of the DBE, so long as the lease gives the DBE absolute priority for use of the leased truck. Leased trucks must display the name and identification number of the DBE. IV. COUNTING SBE PARTICIPATION (a) Recruitment and utilization of certified SBEs is in addition to all other equal opportunity requirements of the contract. (b) There is no SBE goal. (c) Count SBE participation the same as DBE participation. V. ACTIONS REQUIRED BY THE BIDDER AT THE BIDDING STAGE AND PRIOR TO AWARD FOR PROJECTS WITH A DBE GOAL (a) Submission Requirements. The selected vendor must include its DBE Participation with the bid by completing Form EO-385. This submission must include the business name of the DBE firm with address, contact person, and phone number, a detailed narrative description of the service to be provided by the DBE along with the corresponding North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code(s), and the percent of the bid’s cost to be contractually allocated to the DBE in the bid submission. Do not request or include physical certification letters. The PA UCP database at www.paucp.com is the only resource that should be used to verify DBE eligibility. In addition, please note that DBE certification does not expire and expiration dates should not be requested or included. As long as a firm remains visible in the PA UCP database they remain eligible to participate as a DBE on federally-assisted contracts. If a goal established by the SAP&DC is not met (the SAP&DC will not round), demonstrate a Good Faith Effort (GFE) to meet the contract’s DBE goal. Demonstrate that the efforts made were those that a vendor seeking to meet the DBE goal established by the SAP&DC would make, given all relevant circumstances. Failure to include GFE documentation with the submission, when the DBE goal is not met, will result in rejection of the bid. (b) Good Faith Effort Requirements. In response to a bid, the vendor must make a ‘Good Faith Effort’ to subcontract a portion of the contract work to certified DBEs. The demonstration of GFE is accomplished by seeking out DBE participation in the contract given all relevant circumstances. If unable to meet the contracts established DBE Goal, the selected vendor must submit documentation of its GFE. The following illustrate the types of efforts that may be taken, but they are not deemed to be exclusive or exhaustive. The Director and/or Committee will consider other factors and types of efforts that may be relevant: • Efforts made to solicit through all reasonable and available means (e.g., use of the DBE Directory, attendance at pre-bid meetings, advertising and/or written notices) the interest of all certified DBEs who have the capability to perform the work of the contract. The selected vendor must provide written notification, at least fifteen (15) calendar days prior to the bid due date, to allow the DBEs to respond to the solicitation. The selected vendor must determine with certainty if the DBEs are interested by taking appropriate steps to follow up initial solicitations.

• Efforts made to select portions of the work to be performed by DBEs in order to increase the likelihood that the DBE goal will be achieved. This includes, where appropriate, breaking out contract work items into economically feasible units to facilitate DBE participation, even when the selected vendor might otherwise prefer to perform these work items with its own forces.

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• Efforts made to provide interested DBEs with adequate information about the plans, specifications, and requirements of the contract in a timely manner to assist them in responding to a solicitation. • Efforts made to negotiate in good faith with interested DBEs. It is the selected vendor’s responsibility to make a portion of the contract work available to DBE subcontractors and suppliers and to select those portions of the work or material needs consistent with the available DBE subcontractors and suppliers, so as to facilitate DBE participation. Evidence of such negotiation includes the names, addresses, and telephone numbers of DBEs that were considered; a description of the information provided regarding the plans and specifications for the work selected for subcontracting; and evidence as to why additional agreements could not be reached for DBEs to perform the work. A vendor using good business judgment would consider a number of factors in negotiating with subcontractors, including DBE subcontractors, and would take a firm's price and capabilities as well as contract DBE goals into consideration. However, the fact that there may be some additional costs involved in finding and using DBEs is not in itself sufficient reason for a vendor’s failure to meet the contract’s DBE goal, as long as such costs are reasonable. Also, the ability or desire of the selected vendor to perform the work of a contract with its own work force does not relieve the vendor of the responsibility to make GFE. The selected vendor is not, however, required to accept higher quotes from DBEs if the price difference is excessive or unreasonable. In situations where the selected vendor chooses to reject a DBE firm’s quote over a non-DBE firm solely due to cost, copies of the quotes received from both the DBE and non-DBE firm must be included in the GFE documentation. • The selected vendor’s determination of a DBE as being unqualified without sound reasons based on a thorough investigation of their capabilities. The selected vendor’s standing within its industry, membership in specific groups, organizations, or associations and political or social affiliations (for example union vs. non-union employee status) are not legitimate causes for the rejection or non-solicitation of bids in the selected vendor’s efforts to meet the DBE contract goal. • Efforts to assist interested DBEs in obtaining bonding, lines of credit, or insurance. • Efforts to assist interested DBEs in obtaining necessary equipment, supplies, materials, or related assistance or services. • Efforts to effectively use the services of the SAP&DC’s DBE Liaison or the Department's DBE and/or SBE Supportive Services Centers, services of available minority/women community organizations; minority/women contractors' groups; local, State, and Federal minority/women business assistance offices; and other organizations as allowed on a case-by-case basis to provide assistance in the recruitment and placement of DBEs. VI. ACTIONS TO BE TAKEN BY THE SAP&DC BEFORE AWARD (a) Approval. If the selected vendor includes the DBE Participation with their bid, meets the contract’s DBE goal, and all other contract requirements, the SAP&DC, in consultation with the Department, will approve the submission. (b) Good Faith Effort Review. If the selected vendor includes the DBE Participation with their bid, the SAP&DC, in consultation with the Department, will review the GFE documentation included with the bid. The selected vendor may not provide additional GFE documentation beyond what is included at the time of bid submission. However, if during the review of the vendor’s GFE information the reviewers have questions, the selected vendor may be contacted by the IRT Chairperson for clarification. The GFE steps to be taken are as follows: 1. The IRT reviews and makes a recommendation to the Director. 2. The Director will do one of the following:

a. Concur with the IRT recommendation that a GFE was made and the DBE Participation will be approved;

b. Concur with the IRT disapproval of the GFE submission. The selected vendor will be afforded the opportunity for administrative reconsideration as required by Part 26.

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(i.) If the selected vendor requests administrative reconsideration, the Director forwards the GFE request to the Committee. (ii.) If the selected vendor does not request administrative reconsideration, then the recommendation stands and the GFE is disapproved. The selected vendor must notify the SAP&DC and the Department to this effect in writing. The bid will then be considered non-responsive and will be rejected.

c. Disagree with the IRT recommendation. If the Director determines that a GFE has been made, the DBE Participation will be approved. If the Director determines that a GFE has not been made, the selected vendor will be afforded the administrative reconsideration process as described above. 3. If administrative reconsideration is requested, the Committee meets and makes the final determination. If the Committee determines that the selected vendor made a GFE, the DBE Participation will be approved. If the Committee determines that the selected vendor has failed to make a GFE, the bid will be rejected and the selected vendor will be notified of the rejection. The Department will then review the next selected vendor’s DBE participation to determine if the DBE goal is met or if a GFE was made. VII. ACTION TO BE TAKEN BY THE SAP&DC DURING PERFORMANCE OF THE CONTRACT To ensure that all obligations awarded to DBEs under this contract are met, the SAP&DC, in consultation with the Department, will review the selected vendor’s DBE involvement efforts during the performance of the contract whether or not the DBE is listed on the approved DBE Participation. The review will include a CUF review and analysis for all DBEs performing on the contract. Sanctions. Upon completion of the work the SAP&DC, in consultation with the Department, will review the actual DBE participation and make a determination regarding the selected vendor’s compliance with the applicable requirements. Sanctions may be imposed for noncompliance or unwarranted shortfalls in the approved DBE goal.

VIII. ACTIONS REQUIRED BY THE SELECTED VENDOR DURING PERFORMANCE OF THE CONTRACT (a) DBE Participation. When DBE Participation is approved in an amount less than the contract’s DBE goal, continue GFE toward meeting the contract’s DBE goal for the life of the contract. Ensure that the DBE Participation is attained. Proof of attainment is provided by payments to DBEs and documented in monthly reports. (b) DBE Revised Participation. Obtain written consent from the impacted business area before substituting a DBE or making any change to the approved DBE Participation or any other DBE performing on the project. Immediately request substitution authorization from the impacted business area in writing who will contact the Bureau of Equal Opportunity. The request must include documentation supporting the substitution and written agreement from the DBE to the change. Include proof that a certified letter giving the DBE five (5) days to respond with acceptance or to notify the SAP&DC and the Department of non-acceptance. Demonstrate that every effort has been made to allow the DBE to perform. 1. If the arrangement to be replaced is agreeable between the selected vendor and the DBE, document the following procedures: • Make a GFE to subcontract the work with another DBE, or subcontract other work items to DBE firms, to make up the DBE shortfall. The selected vendor has seven (7) days from approval of its request to submit the GFE documentation. The selected vendor may request additional time by contacting the impacted business area in writing.

• When the substitution results in meeting the DBE goal, complete a Revised DBE Participation which includes letter(s) from the DBE(s) of their intent to perform on the contract. If the DBE being replaced or substituted has already performed on the contract, the Revised Participation request should include the total amount paid to the DBE prior to its substitution or replacement.

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• When the substitution does not result in meeting the DBE goal, complete a Revised DBE Participation with DBE acknowledgement and provide GFE documentation. If the DBE performed on the project, the Revised DBE Participation should include the total amount paid to the DBE prior to their substitution. Good Faith Effort Review. The SAP&DC, in consultation with the Department, will review the GFE documentation for substitution. If, during the review of the selected vendor’s GFE information and documentation, the reviewers have questions, the selected vendor may be contacted for clarification. The GFE steps to be taken are, as follows: a. The impacted business area reviews and, if acceptable, approves the GFE and Revised DBE Participation or recommends that the IRT make the determination.

b. The IRT either: 1. Approves recommendation that the GFE was met and the Revised DBE Participation will be approved, or 2. Disapproves the GFE resulting in a shortfall requiring the selected vendor to continue to fulfill its GFE obligation and commitment.

c. If forwarded to them by the impacted business area, the IRT makes a final determination. Do not perform any of the DBE work included in the substitution request without prior written approval from the SAP&DC and the Department. If the projected DBE participation meets or exceeds the DBE goal amount for the contract without replacing the DBE, then no contract shortfall exists. A Revised DBE Participation must be submitted to reflect the decreased dollar amount. 2. If the arrangement to be replaced is not agreeable between the selected vendor and the DBE, the following procedures are required: • Until a determination is made, do not perform the DBE work without prior approval.

• The IRT will review and make a determination and the impacted business area will notify both the selected vendor and the DBE.

• The selected vendor or the DBE may request a meeting with the SAP&DC and/or the Department by contacting the impacted business area. (c) SBE Participation. There is no goal for SBE participation. However, the utilization of SBE firms must be reported and documented in monthly reports with proof of payment consistent with the process for DBE firms. (d) Additional Work. When additional work is required for any classification of work which is identified on the DBE Participation to be performed by the DBE, at least (50%) of this additional work will be performed by the same DBE unless the DBE submits, in writing, that he/she cannot perform the work due to his/her own limitations. (e) Progress Payments. Make payments to all subcontractors, suppliers, service providers, and consultants no later than ten (10) days after being reimbursed by SAP&DC. Document all DBE and SBE progress payments via the Monthly DBE/SBE Status Report, EO-402. The form is to be submitted no later than ten (10) days following the start of the month for the proceeding month’s activity to [email protected]. Bring to the attention of the SAP&DC, in writing, any situation in which regularly scheduled progress payments are not made to DBE/SBE subcontractors, suppliers, service providers or consultants. (f) Records and Reports. Keep such project records as are necessary to determine compliance with DBE Requirements. These records can be used as GFE documentation. Design these records to indicate:

• The number of disadvantaged and non-disadvantaged subcontractors, small businesses, regular dealers, manufacturers, consultants, and service providers, and the type of work or services performed on or materials incorporated in this project.

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• The progress and efforts made in seeking out DBE and SBE contractor organizations and individual DBEs and SBEs for work on this project.

• Documentation of all correspondence, personal contacts, telephone calls, etc., to obtain the services of DBEs and SBEs for this project. Submit reports, as required by the SAP&DC, in accordance with Department requirements. Certify that the amounts were actually paid to the DBE and SBE for work performed on the project and keep cancelled checks on file in the home office to reflect payment for the specific project and for inspection and audit by the SAP&DC and the Department. Enter the payment information on the monthly payment report which will include the following:

• The number of contracts awarded to DBEs and SBEs, noting the type of work and amount of each contract executed with each firm and including the execution date of each contract.

• The amount paid to each DBE and SBE during the month and the amount paid to date. If no payments are made to a DBE/SBE during the month, enter a zero ($0.00) payment. • Paid invoices or a certification attesting to the actual amount paid to each firm, upon completion of the individual DBE's and SBE’s work. In the event the actual amount paid is less than the award amount, provide a complete explanation of the difference. Maintain all such records for a period of three (3) years following acceptance of final payment. Make these records available for inspection by the SAP&DC, the Department, and the FHWA. If DBE credit is being claimed for material costs included in a DBE subcontract or agreement, submit purchase orders for the material to [email protected] on a monthly basis in conjunction with the monthly payment report.

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APPENDIX III

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FEDERAL NONDISCRIMINATION AND EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY CLAUSES

(All Federal Aid Contracts)* (1-76)

1. Selection of Labor: During the performance of this contract, the contractor shall not discriminate against labor from any

other State, possession or territory of the United States.

2. Employment Practices: During the performance of this contract, the contractor agrees as follows: a. The contractor will not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color,

religion, sex, or national origin. The contractor will take affirmative action to ensure that applicants are employed, and that employees are treated during employment without regard to their race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. Such action shall include, but not be limited to the following: employment, upgrading, demotion or transfer; recruitment or recruitment advertising; layoffs or termination; rates of pay or other forms of compensation; and selection for training, including apprenticeship. The contractor agrees to post in conspicuous places, available to employees and applicants for employment, notice to be provided by the State highway department setting forth the provisions of this nondiscrimination clause.

b. The contractor will, in all solicitations or advertisements for employees placed by or on behalf of the contractor,

state that all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, or national origin.

c. The contractor will send to each labor union or representative of workers with which he has a collective bargaining

agreement or other contract or understanding, a notice to be provided by the State highway department advising the said labor union or workers’ representative of the contractors commitments under section 2 and shall post copies of the notice in conspicuous places available to employees and applicants for employment.

d. The contractor will comply with all provisions of Executive Order 11246 of September 24, 1965, and of the rules,

regulations (41 CFR, Part 60) and relevant orders of the Secretary of Labor.

e. The contractor will furnish all information and reports required by Executive Order 11246 of September 24, 1965, and by rules, regulations and orders of the Secretary of Labor, or pursuant thereto, and will permit access to his books, records and accounts by the Federal Highway Administration and the Secretary of Labor for purposes of investigation to ascertain compliance with such rules, regulations and orders.

f. In the event of the contractor’s noncompliance with the nondiscrimination clauses of this contract or with any of

the said rules, regulations or orders, this contract may be canceled, terminated or suspended in whole or part and the contractor may be declared ineligible for further Government contracts or Federally-assisted construction contracts in accordance with procedures authorized in Executive Order 11246 of September 24, 1965, and such other sanctions may be imposed and remedies invoked as provided in Executive Order 11246 of September 24, 1965, or by rule, regulation or order of the Secretary of Labor, or as otherwise provided by law.

g. The contractor will include the provisions of Section 2 in every subcontract or purchase order unless exempted by

rules, regulations or orders of the Secretary of Labor issued pursuant to section 204 of Executive Order 11246 of September 24, 1965, so that such provisions will be binding upon each subcontractor or vendor. The contractor will take such action with respect to any subcontract or purchase order as the State highway department or the Federal Highway Administration may direct as a means of enforcing such provisions including sanctions for noncompliance: Provided, however, that in the event a contractor becomes involved in, or is threatened with litigation with a subcontractor or vendor as a result of such direction by the Federal Highway Administration, the contractor may request the United States to enter into such litigation to protect the interests of the United States.

3. Selection of Subcontractors, Procurement of Materials, and Leasing of Equipment: During the performance of this

contract, the contractor, for itself, its assignees and successors in interest (hereinafter referred to as the “contractor”) agrees as follows:

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a. Compliance with Regulations: The contractor shall comply with the Regulations relative to nondiscrimination in federally-assisted programs of the Department of Transportation, Title 49, Code of Federal Regulations, Part 21, 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 contractor, 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 procurements of materials and leases of equipment. The contractor shall not participate either directly or indirectly in the discrimination prohibited by section 21.5 of the Regulations, including employment practices when the contract covers a program set forth in the Regulations.

c. Solicitations for Subcontracts, Including Procurements of Materials and Equipment: In all solicitations either by

competitive bidding or negotiation made by the contractor for work to be performed under a subcontract, including procurements of materials or leases of equipment, each potential subcontract or supplier shall be notified by the contract of the contractor’s obligations under this contract and the Regulations relative to nondiscrimination on the grounds of race, color, sex or national origin.

d. Information and Reports: The contractor shall 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 State highway department or the Federal Highway Administration to be pertinent to ascertain compliance with such Regulations or directives. Where any information required of a contractor is in the exclusive possession of another who fails or refuses to furnish this information, the contractor shall so certify to the State highway department, or the Federal Highway Administration as appropriate, and shall set forth what efforts it has made to obtain the information.

e. Sanctions for Noncompliance: In the event of the contractor’s noncompliance with the nondiscrimination

provisions of this contract, the State highway department shall impose such contract sanctions as it or the Federal Highway Administration may determine to be appropriate, including, but not limited to:

(1) withholding of payments to the contractor under the contract until the contractor complies, and/or (2) cancellation, termination or suspension of the contract, in whole or in part.

f. Incorporation of Provisions: The contractor shall include the provisions of this paragraph 3 in every subcontract, including procurements of materials and leases of equipment, unless except by the Regulations, or directives issued pursuant thereto. The contractor shall take such action with respect to any subcontractor or procurement as the State highway department or the Federal Highway Administration my direct as a means of enforcing such provisions including sanctions for noncompliance: Provided, however, that, in the event a contractor becomes involved in, or is threatened with, litigation with a subcontractor or supplier as a result of such direction, the contractor may request the State highway department or enter into such litigation to protect the interest of the State, and , in addition, the contractor may request the United States to enter into such litigation to protect the interests of the United States.

Wherever hereinabove the word “contractor” is used, it shall also include the word engineer, consultant, researcher, or other entity (governmental, corporate, or otherwise), its successors and assigns as may be appropriate.

*Not to be used if otherwise included in Construction or Appalachian Contract Provisions.

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Documents

SOUTHERN ALLEGHENIES PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION (SAP&DC) REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS · 2015-10-19 · southern alleghenies planning and development commission (sap&dc) request