Previous Mayor and Council directed staff to perform an Economic Impact Study for the Lone Tree Overpass Project to identify impacts to the surrounding neighborhoods from diverted traffic. This scope of work was included in the design contract and has been completed by WSP.  

The Elden Loop Road connection is currently included in the scope of work for design and construction of the overall project. This new road will provide connectivity and access to commercial and residential properties on both sides of the new overpass. This road alignment will also include public utility mains and services to parcels. Public comment was received in the fall of 2021 regarding negative impacts of added traffic to the Southside neighborhood and increased truck traffic. Because the bond information pamphlet for the November 6, 2018 election included the Elden Loop in the scope of work, staff is requesting that Council provide direction on proceeding with the work. The pamphlet has been included as an attachment to this staff summary and the language is included below: 

INFORMATION PAMPHLET FOR THE CITY OF FLAGSTAFF, ARIZONA  GENERAL / SPECIAL ELECTION  NOVEMBER 6, 2018  Compiled and issued by the CITY OF FLAGSTAFF, ARIZONA

• Page 46: Local street connections under the overpass will also be completed. 
• Page 52: Design, construction, reconstruction, improvement and maintenance of bridges and overpasses, adjacent streets, highways, walkways, trails and bike paths.

This decision and direction for the design team is critical to maintaining project schedule.  

Connection to PBB Key Community Priorities/Objectives & Regional Plan:
Safe and Healthy Community -

• Foster a safe, secure, and healthy community.
• Ensure the built environment is safe through the use of consistent standards, rules and regulations, and land-use practices.

Inclusive and Engaged Community -

• Advance social equity and social justice in Flagstaff. 

Sustainable, Innovative Infrastructure -

• Deliver outstanding services to residents through a healthy, well-maintained infrastructure system.
• Utilize existing long-range plans that identify the community's future infrastructure needs and all associated costs.
• Identify smart traffic management, multi-modal transportation, and alternative energy opportunities.

Environmental Stewardship -

• Implement sustainable building practices and alternative energy and transportation options.
• Implement, maintain and further the Climate Action and Adaptation Plan.

Regional Plan – Goal T.2.  -

• Improve transportation safety and efficiency for all modes.

Has There Been Previous Council Decision on This:
A previous City Council reviewed options for the Lone Tree Overpass bond project and directed Staff to prepare ballot language for a $73M bond project to be funded through secondary property tax in the 2018 election, which was passed by the Flagstaff voters.

On February 2, 2021, the City Council awarded the first design phase agreement to Ames.
On September 7, 2021, the City Council awarded Amendment #1 to the design phase agreement.
On March 1, 2022, the City Council awarded Amendment #2 to the design phase agreement.