Document Kalispell_doc_075c7dfedd

cø 3 S , fl j UNITED STATES ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY WASHINGTON, D.C. 20460 t PROIt° MAY 2 8 2015 OFF1CE OF SOLID WASTE AND EMERGENCY RESPONSE The Honorable Peter M. Rogoff Under Secretary for Policy Office ofthe Secretary of Transportation US Department of Transportation 1200 New Jersey Aye, SE Washington, DC 20590 Dear Mr. Rogoff: The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is pleased to verify that the city of Kalispell, Montana was a Brownfields Area-Wide Planning (BF AWP) pilot grant recipient in FY10. Under this grant, the city worked closely with members of the community to develop a plan for cleaning up and reusing key brownfields in the Core Area of downtown Kalispell. The brownfields area-wide plan served as the catalyst process and document that led to the Glacier Rail ParklKalispell Core Area Development and Trail project. A major part of the implementation strategy for revitalizing the Core Area is to create a new rail park outside of the immediate downtown area that will serve businesses relying on rail service. This new industrial park and multi-modal inland port will support economic revitalization in the Core Area by allowing for the removal of old rail tracks downtown, replacing the tracks with a two-mile bike/pedestrian trail and creating important street connections throughout the downtown. The Notice of Funding Availability for the TIGER grant program states that, among the primary selection criterion for “Quality of Life” and secondary selection criterion for “Disciplinary Integration,” projects developed in coordination with land-use planning and economic development decisions, and projects that are a product of a robust planning process, will be prioritized by DOT. In both of these criteria, the EPA’s BF AWP Program is mentioned explicitly. The city of Kalispell has kept me updated on this project and has shared with me how they used funding from three different EPA brownt’ields grants to help lay the foundation for the Glacier Rail Park and Core Area improvements. I am pleased to learn of the local cooperation around this project and of the city’s efforts to leverage their brownfield grants by seeking implementation resources, such as TIGER 2015 grant funds. This demonstrates the results oriented focus of the BF AWP grants and is consistent with the goals supported through the Partnership for Sustainable Communities. Internet Address (URL) • htlp://www.epagov Recyclecl/Recyclable • Printed with Vegetable Oil Beseti Inks on 100% Poslconsumer, Process Chlorine Free Recycled Paper ---PAGE BREAK--- If your staff has any questions on this matter, please contact Aimee Storm at storrnainieeegg or at (202) 566-0633. Sincerely, Mathy(tanis1aus Assistant Administrator ---PAGE BREAK--- UNITED STATES ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY REGION 8 1595 Wynkoop Street Denver, CO 80202-1129 Phone [PHONE REDACTED] www.epa.gov/regiono8 Ref: EPR-ARP June 2,2015 Mayor Mark Johnson City of Kalispell P.O. Box 1997 Kalispell, MT 59903 Subject: City of Kalispell, MT: Glacier Rail Park and Kalispell Core Area Development and Trail Dear Mayor Johnson: On behalf of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region 8, I am sending this letter documenting the EPA Brownfield Program’s involvement with the Glacier Rail Park and Kalispell Core Area and Trail, for which the City of Kalispell, MT, and the Flathead County Economic Development Authority are applying to the U.S. DOT TIGER 2015 Discretionary Grant Program. Beginning in 2009, the EPA Brownfields Program has awarded the City of Kalispell a total of $1.4 million in competitive grants to advance the City’s goals related to the assessment, remediation and reuse of potentially contaminated brownfield properties. The City used a portion of these grant funds to conduct due diligence in the form of Phase I and II environmental site assessments at the rail park property. The City has also conducted several assessments and a cleanup in the Core Area and has $700,000 in available EPA cleanup loan funds that could be used in the Core Area. Additionally, in 2010 the City was awarded a $175,000 Brownfields Area-Wide Planning Grant under the HUD-DOT-EPA Partnership for Sustainable Communities. Based on the completed area-wide plan, the new rail park is a precursor that will allow for the removal of the current railroad track through the City and in turn facilitate reinvestment and redevelopment to occur. The EPA is currently working with the City of Kalispell to conduct Phase I and II environmental site assessments and any necessary clean-up planning at catalytic properties in the Core Area that are proposed to be transferred to the Flathead County Economic Development Authority (FCEDA), as well as the railroad track property running through Kalispell to be rail banked to the City for the construction of a multi-use trail. It is anticipated that this work will occur throughout summer-fall 2015 under the EPA Targeted Brownfields Assessment Program. ---PAGE BREAK--- Please contact Stephanie Metz (metz.stephanieepa.gov / [PHONE REDACTED]) with any Brownfields related questions. Sincerely, / / Daniel Heffernan Brownfields Coordinator Assessment and Revitalization Program CC: Katharine Thompson, Community Development Manager, City of Kalispell 2 SPrinted on Recycled Paper ---PAGE BREAK--- DEQ Montana Department of Environmental Quality May 28, 2015 The Honorable Anthony Foxx, Secretary United States Department of Transportation 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE Washington, DC 20590 RE: Letter of Acknowledgement: City of Kalispell, Montana Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery (TIGER) Grant Proposal, “Glacier Rail Park/Kalispell Core Area Development and Trail” Dear Secretary Foxx: We acknowledge and support the City of Kalispell’s request for Tiger Grant funding for redevelopment of Kalispell’s downtown core area. Immediate benefits of this project include the following: • This redevelopment project provides a catalyst for the revitalization of the former railroad spur that bisects 44 acres of underutilized properties in the heart of Kalispell’s downtown. Many of these properties are current or potential Brownfields sites. The former railroad spur will become a showcase trail corridor creating alternative transportation and access to the downtown core area. • Industrial businesses will be moved out of the downtown area to the “Glacier Rail Park.” The rail park is along the tracks and will be co-located with other industrial properties east of town. • The rail park component of the project represents a Brownfields-supported redevelopment for a reclaimed gravel pit, a small portion of which is included in a Montana Comprehensive Environmental Cleanup and Responsibility Act (CECRA) Facility (the K.R.Y. Site). Environmental concerns and CECRA liability are discussed in the department’s responses to the Environmental Assessment Consultation for this grant application. • The City of Kalispell previously used Brownfields assessment grant funding to complete Phase I and Phase II Environmental Site Assessments in this area. If you have any questions about the role of the Brownfields Program in this Tiger Grant Proposal area, please feel free to contact Jeff Kuhn at (406) 444-6567 or [EMAIL REDACTED]. Questions concerning the CECRA facility should be directed to Travis Erny at (406) 444-6802 or [EMAIL REDACTED]. Sincerely, 1’ /Uz& Tom Livers Director Steve Bullock, Governor I Tom Livers, Director I P.O. Box 200901 I Helena, MT 59620-0901 I (406> 444-2544 I www.deq.mt.gov ---PAGE BREAK--- Flathead County Board of Commissioners (406) 758-5503 Pamela J. Holmquist Gary D. Krueger Philip B. Mitchell June 1,2015 The Honorable Anthony Foxx, Secretary U. S. Department of Transportation 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE Washington, DC 20590 RE: Glacier Rail Park/Kalispell Core Area Development and Trail Dear Secretary Foxx, We are writing in support of the Glacier Rail ParklKalispell Core Area Development and Trail project for which the City of Kalispell and the Flathead County Economic Development Authority are requesting TIGER 2015 Discretionary Grant funding. The proposed $21 million investment in rail, road, utility infrastructure, multi-use trail and complete road connections to develop the Rail Park and revitalize the Kalispell Core Area will leverage the area’s access to the BNSF rail line and the Great Northern Corridor. This project will result in job creation, economic growth and more freight movement in the region as well as allow the community to invest in the development of its own resources. A $10 million investment of TIGER 2015 funds in this existing project will leverage more than $11 million in private, county and city funds. This project supports the mission of economic development by enhancing the region’s economic base and fostering job creation in the Flathead Valley in two ways. It creates shovel-ready sites that can be promoted to expanding businesses requiring rail — encouraging them to locate in the region. Additionally, under-utilized brownfields in the Core Area can be promoted to attract new businesses or accommodate expanding local businesses. The county has long been supported by the traditional industries of agriculture, wood products and manufacturing. As those industries change and the economy evolves it is important to invest in the infrastructure that connects industry to national and international markets. Flathead County is 120 miles from the nearest Interstate highway, but the BNSF line runs directly through the county and is part of the Great Northern Corridor. This line is currently an underutilized resource, but the FCEDA Rail Park and the proposed transload facility will allow many more businesses access to that line and the markets on the West Coast, in Canada and in the Great Lakes Region. The project also improves the local transportation system, making a significant investment that will benefit the community for decades. 800 South Main, Room 302 Kalispel], MT 59901 Fax (406) 758-5861 ---PAGE BREAK--- A. Foxx June 1,2015 Page Two • It would remove a significant barrier to north-south pedestrian and vehicle traffic in Kalispell. Presently there are only 6 crossings along this almost 2 mile corridor through the heart of our downtown. • It would serve to connect the east side ofKalispell with the west side ofKalispell via a safe pedestrian route. • It would be instrumental in allowing redevelopment to occur in downtown Kalispell. • It would connect the unincorporated community of Evergreen on the east side of Kalispell with Kalispell proper. • Finally, it would connect Woodland Park, the largest park in Kalispell, and the Willow Glen Trail (3 miles on the east side) with the Somers to Kila Trail system which we have developed. This 22 miles long facility is a showpiece that connects the communities of Somers, Kalispell and Kila. . This project results from five years of planning and collaboration between the City of Kalispell, Flathead County, residents and local businesses. Taken as a whole, the project is transformative. It is a model for high level, meaningful public involvement; appropriate federal investment answering the “but-for” question; local and regional collaboration that reaches across political jurisdictions; creation of public-private partnerships; creating safer conditions for residents and furthering economic growth at every level from the individual putting food on the table to the expansion of international trade. This community has worked at every step to find solutions to the current challenges on the ground and create innovations that will make our region viable and livable for our grandchildren. Sincerely, FLATHEAD COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS A741fr&LL4 Pamela J. Holm st, Chairma 9//4 — Gai 4. Kruegr, Mmber ç Philip B. Mitchell, Member 800 South Main, Room 302 Kalispell, MT 59901 Fax (406) 758-5861 ---PAGE BREAK--- Community Health Services Flathead City-County Health DeDartment 7518110 FAX7518111 Environmental Health Services 1035 First Ave. West Kalispell, MT 59901 751-8130 FAX 751-8131 (406) 751-8101 FAX 751-8102 Family Planning Services www.flatheadhealth.org 751-8150 FAX 751-8151 Home Health Services 751-6800 FAX 751-6807 WIC Services 751-8170 FAX 751-8171 Animal Shelter 752-1310 FAX 752-1546 June 2, 2015 The Honorable Anthony Foxx, Secretary U.S. Department of Transportation 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE Washington, DC 20590 RE: Glacier Rail Park/Kalispell Core Area Development and Trail Dear Secretary Foxx, On behalf of the Flathead City-County Health Department, lam sending this letter in support of the Glacier Rail Park application for which the City of Kalispell and the Flathead County Economic Development Authority is requesting National Infrastructure Investments (TIGER VI) grant funding. The proposed $21.1M investment in railroad and utility infrastructure to develop the Glacier Rail Park for tenants will leverage the area’s access to the BNSF rail line, resulting in job creation and the more efficient use of both public and private resources. A $10 million investment of TIGER funds will be matched with private, city and county funds to total $21.1 M to bring this property to its fullest potential for economic growth. A key component of this plan is the relocation of the two rail users in downtown Kalispell to the rail park in order to facilitate the removal of track currently strangling the downtown area and hampering new and appropriate development while providing an appropriate location for industrial development. At this time, fertilizer facilities are in close proximity to homes and propane is currently being brought in by rail to this neighborhood. By relocating these two rail users in downtown Kalispell to the rail park and removing the fertilizer facilities and propane, the safety and health of the residents of Kalispell in the immediate surrounding area will be protected. Of particular note, the census tract immediately south of these identified properties has over 20% percent of the population at 100% of the Federal Poverty Level with very little opportunity to relocate. The removal of the rail line will facilitate the construction of two mile of bike/walking path allowing a safe means to move east and west through Kalispell. TIGER grant funds would accelerate the development of the rail park creating a location for existing businesses to consolidate operations and increase rail traffic use and for new and relocating businesses to improve efficiencies and cut costs while expanding their rail use. Flathead County Economic Development Authority has been planning and preparing to create a rail-served industrial park for well over ten years, purchasing property and setting aside funds to prepare for an opportunity that will benefit businesses and communities throughout northwest Montana. Significant PublicHealth Providing qualitypublic health services to ensure the conditionsfor a healthy community. ---PAGE BREAK--- TIGER VI Grant June 2, 2015 Page 2 strategic and financial partnership between the City of Kalispell, Flathead County Economic Development Authority (FCEDA), Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railroad (BNSF) has already taken place and will continue as the project proceeds. We strongly urge approval of this grant application as the investment in infrastructure will enhance the economic vitality of the community. The development will encourage businesses to invest in their own growth resulting in the creation of jobs, diversity in the economy and a broader tax base. Providing qualitypublic health services to ensure the conditionsfor a healthy community. ---PAGE BREAK--- 1035 First Ave West Kalispell, MT 59901 oFFICE [PHONE REDACTED] [PHONE REDACTED] EMAIL [EMAIL REDACTED] ES flothead.mt.gov/pIanrng_zoning May28,2015 The Honorable Anthony Foxx, Secretary U.S. Department of Transportation 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE Washington, DC 20590 RE: Glacier Rail Park/Kalispell Core Area Development and Trail Dear Mr. Foxx, On behalf of the Flathead County Planning and Zoning Office, I am sending this letter in support of the Glacier Rail Park/Kalispell Core Area Development and Trail application, for which the City of Kalispell and the Flathead County Economic Development Authority is requesting National Infrastructure Investments (TIGER 7) grant funding. The proposed eastern ingress/egress to the park will provide a boost to the Evergreen community adjacent to the City of Kalispell. New and enhanced employment opportunities would benefit the entire community. Brownfield development surrounded by existing highways, commercial uses and rail lines and near air services and residential development is extraordinarily efficient. Increased traffic in a developed commercial area is good for existing retail, foodservice and lodging businesses. Spin-off and symbiotic businesses that re-purpose existing vacant commercial real estate adjacent to the park could help revitalize and refresh the Evergreen community. The proposed trail using the soon to be abandoned rail right-of-way will connect the communities of Evergreen and Kalispell and provide an important pedestrian link between neighborhoods, jobs and services. All of these things and more are possible benefits of the proposed rail park. Sincerely, BJ Grieve, AICP®, CFM® Planning Director ---PAGE BREAK--- Flathead County Agency on Aging 160 Kelly Road Kalispell, MT 59901 Agency [PHONE REDACTED] Aging May 27, 2015 The Honorable Anthony Foxx, Secretary U.S. Department ofTransportation 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE Washington, DC 20590 Re: Support for Glacier Rail Park/Kalispell Core Area Development and Trail TIGER Grant Application Dear Secretary Foxx: I am writing on behalf of the Flathead County Agency on Aging to express support for the City of Kalispell and the Flathead County Economic Development Authority’s (FCEDA) grant application to secure funding for the Glacier Rail Park/ Kalispell Core Area Development and Trail project. A primary focus of the project is removal of track in downtown Kalispell which will allow for redevelopment of the city’s Core Area with pedestrian-friendly, accessible businesses and public spaces. In addition, the project will support conversion ofthe old rail line through Kalispell into a 2-mile bike and pedestrian trail, enabling citizens to navigate the city center without use of personal vehicles. The population of Flathead County is aging rapidly. Almost 25% ofresidents are currently age 60 or older and that number is expected to rise to approximately 30% over the next 10 years. Further, the area directly impacted by this project is in close proximity to multiple senior housing complexes and to neighborhoods with a high concentration of senior citizens. Older adults depend on easy and safe access to shopping, social activities, exercise/recreational opportunities, health care and social services, etc. to maintain their indpendence and health and well-being, especially at the point where they no longer drive or their driving is limited. The walkable, accessible, public transit friendly development that will result from this project is critical to the ability of our older citizens to remain in their homes and a part of our community. I strongly urge approval of this grant application as it promotes greatly improved community access for older adults and strengthens the economic vitality of the area as a whole. Sincerely, Lisa Sheppard, MSSW, MPAff Director ---PAGE BREAK--- . imagine imag inei fli bra r,es.org May 26, 2015 The Honorable Anthony Fox, Secretary U.S. Department of Transportation 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE Washington, DC 20590 LIBRARIES RE: GLacier Rail Park and KatispeLL Core Area DeveLopment and Trail/TIGER Grant Application Dear Mr. Fox, The Board of Trustees of ImaginelF Libraries, Ftathead County, wouLd Like to convey our strong support for the Glacier Rail Park application, for which the City of KaLispett and the Ftathead County Economic Development Authority is requesting NationaL Infrastructure Investments (TIGER VI) grant funding. The proposed investment in infrastructure to deveLop the KalispelL Rail Park for tenants wiLt Leverage access to the BNSF rail line, resuLting in new job creation and more efficient use of pubLic and private resources. The planned relocation of two current raiL users in downtown Kalispell to the rail park will facilitate the removal of track that seriously hinders rather than serves downtown KaLispeLl, while also providing an appropriate location for industrial development. ImagineiF Library, KaLispeLL, is Located in downtown KaLispeLl. With the removal of the track running through downtown, and the completion of a new bike and walking trail, citizens will have better access to the Library. The bike and walking trail will allow citizens from Evergreen and other areas of Katispelt to visit the library with ease as we strive to grow our users and offer hands-on transformative Learning experiences to our citizens. In our faciLities master pLan for over a decade, a new Main Library wouLd be a much anticipated anchor in the redevelopment of the Core Area and downtown Kalispell. These grant dolLars wilL aLLow our community to enjoy a cleaner, safer, and more agreeabLe city as well as promote sustainabLe economic deveLopment. We strongly endorse approval of this grant application. Sincerely, ALbert Logan, Chair Library Board of Trustees KALISPELL 247 st Avenue East Kalispell, MT 59901 [PHONE REDACTED] BIGFORK 525 Electric Avenue Bigtork, MT 59911 [PHONE REDACTED] COLUMBIA FALLS 130 6th Street West Columbia Falls, MT 59912 406.892.59(9 MARION 205 Gopher Lane Marion, MT 59925 [PHONE REDACTED] ---PAGE BREAK--- KALISPELL tJL!C SCI-OLS Kalispell Public Schools 233 1st Ave. East - Kalispell, Montana 59901 Phone: (406)751-3400 Fax (406)751-3416 SUPERINTENDENT ASST. SUPERINTENDENT HUMAN RESOURCES FEDERAL PROJECTS Mark Flatau Dan Zorn Tracy Scott Chris Bilant Phone (406)751-3434 Phone (406)751-3434 Phone (406)751-3444 Phone (406)751-3408 May 26, 2015 The Honorable Anthony Foxx, Secretary United States Department of Transportation 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE Washington, DC 20590 RE: Glacier Rail ParklKalispell Core Area Development And Trail Dear Mr. Foxx, Please consider this a letter of support for the US DOT TIGER 2015 Discretionary grant program for specific use in establishing the Glacier Rail Park/Kalispell Core Area Development and Trail project. A project of this magnitude would greatly benefit the community of Kalispell and the entire Flathead Valley by providing safe alternative transportation options including walking and biking trails for use by the community’s youngest residents-who don’t drive, and to whom I am committed to serve. Redevelopment through the Core Area and even at the rail park will increase property values and support the education system without unduly placing a financial burden on a few property owners. The development will allow for more people to enjoy all that our community has to offer through outdoor recreation, ease of travel to connect citizens of this economically disadvantaged section of the community to work and education opportunities and allow for redevelopment of 44 acres of vacant, blighted, brownfields properties creating new vitality in the center of the community. As a school district serving approximately 5800 students along with thirteen K-8 Partner Districts that house another 1500 students, safe and easy access to our communities is a real need. This project would provide safer routes to schools in addition to the reasons stated above. I urge your approval of this vital project that would positively impact our communities. Sincerely, Mark Flatau Superintendent ---PAGE BREAK--- Montana Department of Transportation Michael T, rooley. Dr’ectcv 2701 Prospect Avenue Steve BuUock, Governor PC Box 201001 Heleno MT 59620 1001 May 27, 2015 The Honorable Anthony Foxx U.S. Secretary of Transportation 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE Washington, DC 20590 Subject: FY 2015 TIGER Discretionary Grant Application — Kalispell / FCDEA Rail Industrial Park Secretary Foxx, Please consider the Montana Department of Transportation’s (MIYI) support for the City of Kalispell and the Flathead County Economic Development Authority’s (FCDEA) request for 2015 TIGER grant funds to develop a rail-industrial park. This project will develop a 44) acre rail industrial park on the eastern edge of Kalispell. The development of this project would aid in safety to the urban transportation system by removing six at-grade rail crossings and reducing heavy truck traffic from the busy city center. The development of the Rail Industrial Park will improve community safety and economic viability. The project will also encourage healthy transportation alternatives by converting some of the old rail alignment to bicycle/pedestrian facilities to improve connectivity between residential areas and the commercial and recreational attractions, and also providing a safe grade separated crossing of the very busy US-2 National Highway System route. MDT has been working with FCDEA’s consultant and has reached agreement for the location of a new traffic control signal on US-2, and we will continue to work cooperatively through our review proccsses for any project related roadway improvements. The TIGER grant program is an opportunity to complete an otherwise unfunded project that will have long term benefits to the economy and safety of the traveling public. If awarded TIGER funds, MDT will complete any necessary STIP actions to ensure there is no impact to the project schedule. Thank you for your consideration of funding this project with TIGER discretionary funds, Sincerely,,. Mike Tooley, Directof Department of Transportation Copy Lynn Zanto, MDT Rail, Transit & Planning Division Administrator Ed Toavs, MDT Missoula District Administrator An Equal Opportunity Emp/oytr ---PAGE BREAK--- The Honorable Anthony Foxx, Secretary United States Department of Transportation 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE Washington, DC 20590 Dear Sir: Thank you for considering Kalispell’s grant request for revitalizing our community. Sincerely, Aaron Boysen, Chair Board of Directors Northwest Montana Head Start [PHONE REDACTED] Administration Office United Way March 27, 2015 Northwest Montana Head Start 79 7th Avenue East North Kalispell, Montana 59901 FAX [PHONE REDACTED] an equal opportunity provider and employer The City of Kalispell, Montana is applying for the US Department of Transportation TIGER 2015 Discretionary grant to help build the Glacier Rail Park and Kalispell Core Area Development and Trail. I am writing to ask for your support. Northwest Montana Head Start has three centers in Flathead and north Lincoln Counties. We have 145 children ages 3-5 at the Kalispell Center and their fenced playground is on a hill just above the tracks overlooking a beautiful city park. In order to get to the park, the children must take a 15 minute bus ride to avoid walking across the train track. Converting the tracks to a public path would be of great benefit to our children and families, allowing easy access to the city park and its recreational and educational opportunities. Upgrading this section of town into an urban parkway would also eradicate a transient population that inhabits the undergrowth along the tracks. Despite police efforts to relocate or assist with sheltering, this population continues to occupy the railroad right-of-way near our preschool. /hm ---PAGE BREAK--- Eagle Transit 160 Kelly Road Kalispell, MT 59901 [PHONE REDACTED] May 27, 2015 The Honorable Anthony Foxx, Secretary U.S. Department of Transportation 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE Washington, DC 20590 Re: Support for Glacier Rail Park/Kalispell Core Area Development and Trail TIGER Grant Application Dear Secretary Foxx: I am writing on behalfof Eagle Transit to express support for the City of Kalispell and the Flathead County Economic Development Authority’s (FCEDA) grant application to secure fi.inding for the Glacier Rail Park! Kalispell Core Area Development and Trail project. The project focuses on removal of track in the downtown Kalispell area and relocation of the two remaining rail businesses to a new rail park. Removing the existing track in the Core Area will greatly reduce idle emissions from our public transit busses. Six of our Eagle Transit busses cross the railroad tracks in the Core Area 250 days per year, 30 times a day, 7500 times per year, stopping to check for trains each time. Track removal will eliminate those stops and the corresponding idle time to lower emissions and improve traffic flow. Moving the tracks will also increase bus and pedestrian safety and allow for development in the downtown area that is pedestrian-friendly and inclusive ofpublic transit access. We strongly urge approval ofthis grant application as the investment will enhance the economic vitality ofthe community as a whole, further downtown revitalization efforts and encourage the type of development that supports alternative transportation. Transportation Manager ---PAGE BREAK--- City of Kalispell Post Office Box 1997 - Kalispell, Montana 59903-1997 Telephone (406) 758-7701 Fax - (406) 758-7758 The Honorable Anthony Foxx, Secretary U.S. Department of Transportation 1200 New Jersey Avenue, S.E. Washington, DC 20590 RE: Glacier Rail Park/Kalispell Core Area Development and Trail Project Dear Secretary Foxx, On behalf of the City of Kalispell Economic Revolving Loan Fund Committee, I am sending this letter in support of the Glacier Rail Park/Kalispell Core Area Development and Trail project application for which the City of Kalispell and Flathead County Economic Development Authority (FCEDA) are requesting Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery (TIGER VII) grant funding. A $10 million investment of TIGER funds in this existing project will leverage nearly $11.2 million in local, non-federal match contributed by the City of Kalispell, FCEDA and BNSF Railway to bring Glacier Rail Park and Kalispell’s downtown and Core Area to their fullest potential for economic growth. The City of Kalispell Economic Revolving Loan Fund Committee anticipates that loan requests to the City using our revolving loan funds will increase as a result of the implementation of this grant in the City of Kalispell. Our committee is committed to working with new and existing business in Kalispell, particularly in the downtown and Core Area, which intend to expand, redevelop and retain or create jobs for the community. TIGER grant funds would not only facilitate the growth and redevelopment of the Core Area, but also fast-track the development of Glacier Rail Park, in turn creating a location for existing businesses to consolidate operations and increase rail traffic use and for new and relocating businesses to improve efficiencies and cut costs while expanding their rail use. Significant strategic and financial partnership between the City of Kalispell, Flathead County Economic Development Authority, BNSF Railway, Mission Mountain Railroad/Watco Companies and Cenex Harvest States (CHS) has already taken place and will continue as the project proceeds. The City of Kalispell Economic Revolving Loan Fund Committee strongly urges approval of this grant application as the investment in infrastructure will enhance the economic vitality of the community. The development will encourage businesses to invest in their own growth resulting in the creation of jobs, diversity in the economy and a broader tax base. Sincerely 2 Dave Hanson Senior Member City of Kalispell — Economic Revolving Loan Fund Committee June 2, 2015 ---PAGE BREAK--- Planning Department 201 1 St Avenue East Kalispell, MT 59901 Phone: (406) 758-7940 Fax: (406) 758-7739 www.kalispell.com/planning May 27, 2015 US Secretary Anthony Foxx U.S. Department ofTransportation 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE Washington, DC 20590 RE: Project Name/TIGER VII Grant Application Subject: Glacier Rail Park & Kalispell Core Area Develonment and Trail] TIGER VII Grant Dear Mr. Foxx, I’m writing, as Chairman of the Kalispell Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) in support of the City of Kalispell and the Flathead County Economic Development Authority’s TIGER 7 grant application to develop a rail-industrial park on what was previously the Knife River Gravel facility, and correspondingly build a two mile long connecting trail on the proposed surplus railroad line that now bisects the core area of Kalispell. The focus ofthis project is two-fold. The proposed $2lM investment in rail, road and utility infrastructure will leverage the area’s access to the BNSF rail line, resulting in job creation and the more efficient use ofboth public and private resources. A $1OM investment of TIGER funds in the existing project will leverage $11.1 M or more in funds from city, county, Burlington Northern Santa Fee and other private funds to bring this recently purchased property to its fullest potential for economic growth. The second component ofthis plan is the relocation of the two rail users in downtown Kalispell to the rail park in order to facilitate the removal of track currently strangling the downtown area and hampering new and appropriate development while providing an appropriate location for industrial development. The final component will then be to vacate the railroad R/W and construct a multi-use trail through the heart of Kalispell connecting the rail park with downtown Kalispell, the nearby medical community, community college and residential neighborhoods. In addition Kalispell and the core area of Kalispell are bisected by two major highways on the NHS system; US 2 and US 93. Traffic volumes at the intersection ofthese two highways, according to the MDT Trip Count, ranged from 24,000 — 27,000 vehicle trips/day in 2014, the most recent year of publication. Within 200 yards of this intersection, BNSF railroad tracks parallel US Highway 2 east—west across the entire city. Over a two mile stretch, only 6 crossings are permitted, all of them at grade. This project will provide up to 4 additional complete streets to be constructed across the vacated rail line offering significantly improved north-south connectivity for pedestrians and vehicles, almost doubling the number of connections that now exist. PLANNING FOR THE FUrUR ---PAGE BREAK--- Removal oftruck traffic in the downtown has been a primary goal of Kalispell for over 20 years. CENEX Harvest States grain elevators are a major truck traffic contributor/generator in downtown Kalispell. Each 54 car train that comes into CENEX (downtown Kalispell) requires approximately 216 grain semi’s to come into downtown Kalispell via US 2 or US 93 as well as many side streets in a 48 hour period to off-load into the train. This activity goes on throughout the year but is especially busy during harvest (August) which is the busiest traffic time for Kalispell being the peak of the tourist season. We understand that as the last 2 rail users leave their current location, because of the presence of the new rail industrial yard, the rail abandonment and removal is eminent and will be replaced with a pedestrian trail through the heart of downtown Kalispell. This action would be instrumental in allowing redevelopment to occur in downtown Kalispell. It would remove a significant barrier to north-south traffic and open up the possibility for new north-south traffic crossings, serve to connect the east side of Kalispell with the west side of Kalispell via a safe pedestrian route, and it would connect the unincorporated community of Evergreen on the east side of Kalispell with Kalispell proper. Finally it would connect Woodland Park, the largest park in Kalispell, and the Willow Glen Trail with the Somers to Kila Trail system, which was built in a joint effort that included Montana Department of Transportation funding, creating a 22 mile long pedestrian trail showpiece connecting the communities of Somers, Kalispell and Kila and providing alternate pedestrian access routes in the greater Flathead County. In closing the Kalispell TAC supports this project and looks forward to working with Kalispell and FCEDA as this project develops. Sincerely, Thomas R. Jentz, Chairman Kalispell Technical Advisory Committee ---PAGE BREAK--- City of Kalispell Post Office Box 1997 - Kalispell, Montana 59903-1997 Telephone (406) 758-7701 Fax - (406) 758-7758 May 28, 2015 The Honorable Anthony Foxx, Secretary U.S. Department of Transportation 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE Washington, DC 20590 Re: Glacier Rail Park/Kalispell Core Area Development and Trail Project Dear Secretary Foxx, On behalf of the Kalispell Urban Renewal Agency, I am sending this letter in support of the Glacier Rail Park/Kalispell Core Area Development and Trail project application for which the City of Kalispell and Flathead County Economic Development Authority (FCEDA) are requesting National Infrastructure Investments (TIGER VII) grant funding. A sio million investment of TIGER funds in this existing project will leverage over sii.i million in local, non-federal match contributed bythe City of Kalispell, FCEDA and BNSF Railwayto bring Glacier Rail Park and Kalispell’s downtown and Core Area to theirfullest potential for economic growth. The City of Kalispell Urban Renewal Agency anticipates that Tax Increment Financing (TIE) projects will result from the implementation of this grant in the Core Area. We are committed to working with businesses in the Core Area who are interested in using TIE funds to assist with the expansion, redevelopment, or new build of their buildings. Our West Side Urban Renewal- Core Area TIE Policies, Procedures, and Programs manual was recently adopted by Kalispell City Council and allows for TIE funding assistance with projects such as façade improvement, rehabilitation, code compliance, shared utilities, and site demolition and preparation to name a few. TIGER grant funds would not only facilitate the growth and redevelopment of the Core Area, but also accelerate the development of Glacier Rail Park, in turn creating a location for existing businesses to consolidate operations and increase rail traffic use and for new and relocating businesses to improve efficiencies and cut costs while expanding their rail use. Flathead County Economic Development Authority has been planning and preparing to create a rail served industrial parkforovertenyears, purchasing propertyand setting asidefundsto prepareforan opportunitythat will truly benefit businesses and communities throughout northwest Montana. Significant strategic and financial partnership between the City of Kalispell, Flathead County Economic Development Authority, BNSE Railway, Mission Mountain Railroad/Watco Companies and Cenex Harvest States (CHS) has alreadytaken place and will continue as the project ensues. We strongly urge approval of this grant application as the investment in infrastructure will enhance the economic vitality of the community. The development will encourage businesses to invest in their own growth resulting in the creation ofjobs, diversity in the economy and a broader tax base. Sincerely, Marc Rold Chairman City of Kalispell - Urban Renewal Agency ---PAGE BREAK--- Montana Department of LABOR & INDUSTRY Workforce Services Division May 28, 2015 The Honorable Anthony Foxx, Secretary U.S. Department of Transportation 1200 New Jersey Avenue, S.E. Washington, DC 20590 RE: Glacier Rail Park-Kalispell Core Area Development and Trail Project Dear Secretary Foxx: On behalf of the Flathead Job Service I write in support of the Glacier Rail Park- Kalispell Core Area Development and Trail project for which the City of Kalispell and the Flathead County Economic Development Authority are requesting TIGER VII funding. This $1OM request in TIGER funding will help build the new Glacier Rail Park, move rail-service for Kalispell’s last rail-served businesses to the rail park and convert the old rail line through Kalispell into a 2-mile bike and pedestrian trail. This project will provide an alternative transportation corridor that connects citizens of this economically disadvantaged section of the community to work and education opportunities while allowing for redevelopment of 44 acres of vacant, blighted, brownfields properties creating new vitality in the center of the community. The northwest region of Montana is historically a center for wood products industry, agriculture, mining and aluminum production but as our economy evolves the importance of maintaining a connection to national and international markets continues to be vital to the stretch of the region’s economy. Construction of Glacier Rail Park will increase connections for all rural Montana businesses to domestic and international ports, allowing Montana’s small businesses, agricultural producers, manufacturers and consumers to efficiently ship and receive goods. Further, the agreement to remove the tracks from the center of Kalispell as well as the relocation of heavy industry from Kalispell’s Core Area to Glacier Rail Park will encourage revitalization of this area, stimulating new investment and job creation. The Kalispell community views the Glacier Rail ParklKalispell Core Area Development and Trail project as the catalyst for developing the heart of Kalispell into a thriving community for the future. This project is a result of years of planning and collaboration between the City of Kalispell, Flathead County, the residents of the Core Area and local businesses. The results of this project will be both immediate and long-term, benefitting the community with job creation, improved infrastructure, an improved quality of life for community residents and a solid investment in the future. - Sincerely, Bill Nelson, Manager Flathead Job Service FLATHEAD JOB SERVICE 427 First Avenue East, Kalispell, MT 59901 PHONE (406) 758-6200 FAX (406) [PHONE REDACTED] Auxiliary Aids and Services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities An Equal Opportunity Employer c;o-ernor Steve Bullock Commissioner Pam Bucy ---PAGE BREAK--- P.O. Box 158 • Whitefish, MT 59937 • (406) 863-2400 • Fax: (406) 863-2419 June 2,2015 Letter #2015-069 The Honorable Anthony Foxx, Secretary United States Department of Transportation 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE Washington, DC 20590 Dear Mr. Foxx: I am writing in support ofthe City of Kalispell’s TIGER grant application for $10,000,000.00 to fund railroad track at and an access road to the new rail park and then construct the 2-mile trail and 4 complete streets connections to be built in Kalispell’s Core Area. Local, non-federal match to the project is being contributed by the City of Kalispell, Flathead County Economic Development Authority and BNSF Railway for a total of $1 1,175,375. The project is to build the new Glacier Rail Park at the reclaimed gravel pit east of Kalispell; move rail-service for Kalispell’s last rail-served businesses to thç rail park; convert the old rail line through Kalispell into a 2-mile bike and pedestrian trail creating a safe, alternative transportation corridor that connects citizens of this economically disadvantaged section of the community to work and education opportunities; and allow for redevelopment of 44 acres of vacant, blighted, brownfields properties creating new vitality in the center ofthe community. As a successful TIGER grant applicant in the past, the City of Whitefish has discussed administration procedures with officials from the City of Kalispell on how to administer such a grant. We are very confident that they will be able to administer a direct TIGER grant from the USDOT successfully. We will also help them administer the grant along the way if they are awarded a TIGER grant. We support the City ofKalispell’s application and hope that USDOT will award them a TIGER grant. Sincerely Chuck Stearns City Manager csteamsQicityofwhitefish.org