City of Alexandria, Virginia
________________
MEMORANDUM
DATE: JUNE 4, 2025
TO: THE HONORABLE MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF CITY COUNCIL
FROM: JAMES F. PARAJON, CITY MANAGER /s/
THROUGH: MICHAEL MOON, P.E., INTERIM DIRECTOR, TRANSPORTATION AND ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES
DOCKET TITLE:
TITLE
Consideration of a Resolution Authorizing an Application to the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) for the Transportation Alternatives Set-Aside Program. [ROLL-CALL VOTE]
ISSUE: Consideration of a resolution authorizing an application to the Virginia Department of Transportation (“VDOT”) for the Transportation Alternatives (“TA”) Set-Aside Program to construct crossing improvements near Charles Barrett Elementary School and George Washington Middle School as recommended in the Safe Routes to School walk audits to enhance pedestrian safety.
RECOMMENDATION: That the City Council:
1. Approve a resolution (Attachment 1) supporting the submission of one grant application for the TA Set-Aside Program for up to $3,125,000 total to implement safety improvements at intersections near two schools.
2. Authorize the City Manager to apply for the TA Set-Aside Program grant and enter into any required agreements with VDOT to accept and implement the grant.
BACKGROUND: The TA Program is a state-administered, federally funded grant program for infrastructure projects that support non-motorized travel (walking and biking). TA grants are awarded every two years. TA funding can reimburse up to a maximum 80% of eligible project costs, or $2.5 million per application. A local match contribution of 20%, or up to $625,000, is required. Additional local funds are required for any costs that exceed $3.125 million. Applications submitted this year will be considered for funding in FY 2027-2028.
DISCUSSION: For the FY 2027-2028 application cycle, staff recommends the submission of one application.
Safe Routes to School - Crossing Improvements Near Schools Phase II ($3,125,000)
This project would design and construct curb extensions, pedestrian refuge areas, and crosswalk improvements at intersections near Charles Barrett Elementary School and George Washington Middle School. These infrastructure improvements, which are recommended in the 2017 and 2023 Safe Routes to School Walk Audit reports, would create safer crossing opportunities for school children and families and encourage more students to walk and bike to school.
The Transportation Commission reviewed and endorsed both grant proposals at their meeting on May 21, 2025 (Attachment 2).
FISCAL IMPACT: The City is required to provide a 20% local match, which would be a maximum of $625,000 over two years. The CIP includes $250,000 in both FY 2027 and FY 2028. The additional $125,000 would be budgeted in FY 2027, likely using GoAlex funds.
ATTACHMENTS:
Attachment 1: Resolution
Attachment 2: Letters of Endorsement
Attachment 3: Presentation
Cc:
Emily A. Baker, P.E., Deputy City Manager
Hillary Orr, Deputy Director, Transportation, T&ES
Christopher Ziemann, Division Chief of Transportation Planning, T&ES
Alexandria Carroll, Complete Streets Program Manager, T&ES
Bryan Hayes, Complete Streets Coordinator, T&ES