HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes-07/30/2018 COUNCIL WORK SESSION
July 30, 2018
4:10 p.m.
Harold E. Getty Council Chambers
Members present: Morrissey, Klein, Amos, Schmitt, and Juon. Absent: Jacobs and Shimp.
Moved by Schmitt seconded by Amos that the Agenda, as proposed, be approved.
Objective: Presentation on agreement with Vandewalle and Associates
Brian Vandewalle and Marta Purdy, Vandewalle and Associates, provided an overview of their
company and the service they provide. He explained that they are a company of 27 individuals
who focus on economic revitalization for industrial communities that have experienced
economic downturn. They provided an overview of the projects that have happened over the last
ten years to revitalize downtown Waterloo. They explained that $180 million in added
construction value has taken place downtown, 1,000 construction jobs were kept during the great
recession, 400 new residents came to downtown with 200 more expected, 59,000 TechWorks
Marriott hotel guests annually, annual downtown spending is estimated at $1.7 million annually,
and $1.5 billion has been invested by Deere & Company in the Cedar Valley facilities and
products over the last 15 years. They explained their responsibility is to guide the vision for
plans to revitalize downtown Waterloo and to work with engineers and architects on projects.
Mrs. Klein questioned how long Vandewalle and Associates has been working with the city.
Brian Vandewalle explained they've been working in Waterloo for 15 years and with the city for
eight.
Mrs. Klein questioned if there is a Masterplan.
Brian Vandewalle confirmed.
Mrs. Klein questioned if they do the architectural work.
Brian Vandewalle explained that they develop a concept and local architects do the design work
so that the work gets completed by local businesses.
Mrs. Juon questioned if some of their work will be on the east side of the river as well.
Brian Vandewalle explained that with the new contract they will be doing some work on the east
side especially since new construction and housing momentum has been realized in downtown.
Mr. Morrissey questioned if there is a way for them to be involved in planning for housing
rehabilitation in Church Row, Smokey Row, and Walnut Neighborhood.
Brian Vandewalle explained that they have done similar work in Waterloo already and are able
to do additional work in the future.
Mr. Morrissey commented on recent opinions that Waterloo is overbuilding and over selling with
new housing, rather than using current infrastructure.
Brian Vandewalle commented on the importance of keeping the momentum going and that he
disagrees with the opinion of overbuilding. The new housing is creating a tax base that will help
support the next phase.
Mayor Hart commented that it is amazing to see the progress and changes that have happened
overtime downtown.
Objective: Update on University Avenue Project
Michelle Sweeney, AECOM, provided an overview of the work that has taken place to date and
construction target dates. Roadway completion for Phase I is slated for November 16, 2018,
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which includes roadway paving, storm sewer, and water main. Final completion is scheduled for
May 2019. She then shared a drone video of the construction site.
Larry Wiele, AECOM, provided an overview of design updates. Design questions have come up
near the intersection at Greenhill Road so the eastern half will be constructed in the next
construction season. Design changes for the eastern portion of University Avenue include
inserting a roundabout at the intersection of Fletcher and University Avenue, and a shared use
path at Sergeant Road and University Avenue. Design considerations on the west section
include an at-grade intersection at Greenhill and University Avenue along with bridge
enhancements at Greenhill Road Bridge. A supplemental agreement will be coming to council
with enhancement designs. Another public information meeting will be held August 16 as well.
Mr. Amos questioned if the proposed Fletcher Avenue roundabout will add cost to the project.
Larry Wiele explained that the roundabout would be similar to a signalized intersection.
With no further business before the Council, it was moved by Juon seconded by Amos that the
meeting be adjourned at 5:07 p.m. Voice-vote Ayes: Five. Motion carried.
Kelley Fel le
City Clerk