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P U B L I C S A F E T Y 10 CHAPTER The Public Safety Chapter is closely related to the Community Character Element, the Urban Growth Element, and the Parks and Recreation Element. The safety issues addressed in this chapter provide guidance on development and create an additional need for public facilities and services. This section should be used in conjunction with other chapters when evaluating needs, issues or problems that may affect development. INTRODUCTION The purpose of the Public Safety chapter is to minimize loss of life and property in the event of a natural or manmade catastrophe. This chapter has two basic principles. Be ready for disaster, and Manage development to reduce risk. The first part of this chapter addresses the first principle; emergency preparedness. Most natural and man‐made disasters will require the combined efforts of our emergency service providers. The provision of emergency services requires trained people, good information, high quality and well‐maintained equipment, reliable communication systems, and dependable commitments from public staff. Comments made from citizens throughout the public planning process, as well as meetings with the public safety officials indicate the community’s eagerness to address the following concerns: Emergency preparedness Crime prevention Overcrowding of inmates at the detention facility Need for a detoxification facility Lack of a local juvenile detention facility within the community Fire hazards/water distribution Need for a fire station in West Laramie Potential flooding hazards and landslides Snow and ice removal Protection of the Casper Aquifer from groundwater contamination ---PAGE BREAK--- CHAPTER 10: PUBLIC SAFETY Hazardous waste/contaminated sites Airport safety Need for improving or expanding social service programs Concerns for City sewer, water, and our land fill Deterioration of housing units Unsafe pedestrian crossings around the University and the historic downtown areas The following sections of the element will cover the above issues and describe the various types of disasters, focusing principally on crime prevention and response; fire hazards, medical and fire response; flooding hazards, geologic hazards, hazardous waste and management; hazardous materials storage and incident containment; brownfield sites, airport safety, social service programs, and disaster preparedness. Their purpose is to describe the physical effects of the disaster and provide standards for reducing the risk of exposure to the hazards. When distilled, the policies are quite simple; new development should be built in areas that reduce risk and to minimize the loss of life and property. Overview of Emergency Preparedness Preparation for timely and adequate response to emergencies are essential community services that require planning and community‐wide coordination. The City agencies with lead roles during the response phase of a natural or man‐made disaster are the same agencies that have a day‐to‐day responsibility for responding to fires, accidents, crimes, and other emergencies: the Fire Department, Health Department, Police Department, Department of Public Works, and others to a lesser extent as needed. In a major disaster, however, the needs for assistance are greater than the resources of the usual responders; in fact this could be said to be the definition of a disaster. During and after a major disaster additional organization, including City agencies, other public safety agencies, and possibly private organizations will be called into service. This requires a heightened level of coordination, and a different type of organization such as the activation of a Emergency Operations Center (EOC), and the need for an Emergency Operation Plan (EOP), which is generally the blue print for this coordination among city responders, other governmental agencies, private entities (such as the American Red Cross), and the public during a major disaster of any kind. The National Incident Management System has been adopted by both the City and County as the Disaster Management System. The Emergency Operations Plan is being revised to fit requirements of the National Response Plan. The main objective is to ensure that the City, its residents, agencies, businesses, and organizations are prepared for emergencies or disasters and have effective response and recovery plans in place. Emergency Management is a joint effort of the City, County and Town of Rock River. The Agency is a division of the Laramie Fire Department and is operated as a partnership of the three entities. Crime Prevention and Response There are four law enforcement agencies based in Laramie: Albany County Sheriff’s Department, Wyoming Highway Patrol, University of Wyoming’s Police Department, and the Laramie Police Department, which also operates the City’s Animal Shelter. Although the University of Wyoming’s Police Department is restricted to the University and its property, these agencies work together responding to incidents throughout the City. This cooperation with other law enforcement agencies should continue to maximize public safety within the City’s boundaries. The City Police Department should be the primary 1 0 - 2 L A R A M I E C O M P R E H E N S I V E P L A N ---PAGE BREAK--- CHAPTER 10: PUBLIC SAFETY response agency within City limits since it is the only agency directly accountable to the government and community residents of Laramie. The general objective in this section is to reduce crime and assure timely and effective responses to calls for service through the promotion of safer site design standards, law enforcement and community group efforts. Some criminal acts in and around buildings can be minimized or prevented by integrating safety measures into building and site design. These can include a mixture of onsite features such as secured lighting and visible access, and alarm systems. Crime prevention measures, such as proper lighting, alarm systems, street numbers (on the front and back of buildings with alley access), and the visibility of police surveillance should be incorporated into, and around, new and renovated buildings. Another consideration to reduce crime and increase citizen participation is the accessibility of the police department itself. Presently, the police department is on Skyline Road on the south side of Laramie. This location is not readily accessible to the community. This location may also result in a “disconnect” from the community and the City police. A future police department may be better suited in or near the downtown area, a future joint police/fire station, or some other location that creates a civic center for the community. The substation will be staffed with police and volunteer personnel to help the community and visitors, take reports, as well as increase their presence with foot and bike patrols. Having a temporary substation in the downtown area can be a real indicator for a permanent substation based on the community response to the temporary facility. While this objective of reducing crime and assuring timely responses to calls for service is achievable, it is important to note a few barriers that can prevent the City from obtaining its objective. Some of these barriers include: an on‐going overcrowding problem in the Albany County Jail Facility, City and the County lack a detox center and a juvenile detention facility. The Albany County Jail is a shared facility for various local and state police departments. It was built in 1994 to accommodate 64 detainees. It was originally designed to accommodate 120 detainees, but lost numerous beds during the initial construction due to cost overruns. It currently houses up to 80 people that are pre‐trial detainees waiting for arraignments and those serving sentences dispensed by Municipal Court, Circuit Court and split sentences from District Court. In addition, the absence of a detox center within the City also adds to the County jail population and increases the cost for the City at $65 dollars per day to incarcerate these individuals. Those arrested for drugs or alcohol may present a danger to others or themselves, and they need a secure place to “dry out.” In most cases they do not need to be incarcerated. Adding this population to your jail facility reduces the amount of space for those arrested for various other crimes. Another important item for public safety officials is the lack of a juvenile detention facility. Juveniles cannot be housed in the same facilities as adults, and, therefore, are transported to a juvenile detention facility in Cheyenne. Transporting a juvenile to Cheyenne is not only costly, but it strains local resources. Solutions for these important issues need to be dealt with soon using the willingness and cooperation of local, county, and state agencies. L A R A M I E C O M P R E H E N S I V E P L A N 1 0 - 3 ---PAGE BREAK--- CHAPTER 10: PUBLIC SAFETY Fire Hazards The general objective in this section is to minimize risk of personal injury and property damage resulting from structural (urban) and wildland fires. Structural and wildland fires demand a high priority response from a combination of onsite and Fire Department resources in order to minimize injury and damage. For structural fires, fire suppression devices such as sprinklers and extinguishers are important for initial response, reduce fire insurance premiums, and satisfy operations requirements for certain types of businesses. These devices should be required in residential units with more than four units, as well as non‐residential buildings. Additionally, it is important to have adequate lighting, street numbering, and access ways with sufficient width, vertical clearance, turn‐around space, and slope standards to accommodate fire fighting and emergency medical service vehicles. The City’s fire hydrant system provides the primary source of water for fighting urban fires. There are locations within the one‐mile planning boundary, however, where the volume of water does not meet the Fire Department Standards shown in Map 6.1 Water Distribution Deficiencies residential communities whose basic source of water is either by a ground well or a private storage tank. These sources, although appropriate for day‐to‐day living may not be appropriate for fighting a fire as they may lack the volume or pressure needed. The City Fire Department does have the ability to make use of other water supplies such as reservoirs, pressure tanks, elevated tanks, etc. The primary source of water, however, for fighting urban fires is through a fire hydrant system that is serviced, tested, and maintained on a regular schedule. Future development should consider water supply (fire flow), pressure, and hydrant distribution as part of the development approval process. Wildland fires in natural grassy areas of the City can cause damage and threaten nearby structures. Buildings in these natural grassy areas should use materials such as non‐ flammable perimeter vegetation and roofing material to minimize exposure to wildland fires. Noncombustible roofing is important to contain urban fire in high wind circumstances. Non‐treated shake shingles need to be avoided to reduce this hazard. As noted in several public meetings, a main concern in the community is the need for a fire station in West Laramie. The Fire Department provides emergency medical services and medial transport to the City and County. All firefighters are used for both medical and fire emergencies. The primary ambulance location now is the Ivinson Memorial Hospital. This location adds minutes to emergency responses to the western half of the City. The Fire Department’s long range strategic plan calls for an ambulance for each fire station with personnel off the engines at those stations in order to meet the need for more rapid medical responses city wide. The Fire Department estimates the cost to operate a fire station, excluding any capital or equipment purchases, to be approximately $600,000 per year. Presently, the City maintains two fire stations to provide rapid response to all fire calls within its service area shown in Map 10.1 Current Emergency Services and Fire Response Area. Physical barriers, however, such as the railroad tracks and morning and afternoon traffic volumes can delay the response time of emergency vehicles. In addition, any construction on the Clark Street or proposed Harney Street Viaduct noted in the Transportation Element will only increase response times. 1 0 - 4 L A R A M I E C O M P R E H E N S I V E P L A N ---PAGE BREAK--- CHAPTER 10: PUBLIC SAFETY Relocation and construction of fire stations should be examined so response times for all portions of the City can be improved. As part of the Wyoming Technical Campus Development, the school donated land in West Laramie for a future fire station at the corner of Colorado and Franklin Street. While this land is feasible for a fire station, it may not be the ideal location because of lot size, development limitations and Non‐Central West Laramie Location. Alternative plans may be drafted to utilize the donated parcel of land for part of a land swap to provide the City with a more central West Laramie site that can more easily be developed. Another alternative to improve Level of Service (LOS) is the potential relocation of Fire Station #2 from Reynolds and 23rd Street to a location near the Ivinson Memorial Hospital on 30th. While it is clear Ivinson Memorial Hospital is currently undergoing some growth, and the University will be improving the eastern portion of their campus in the foreseeable future, it may be advantageous for all parties to identify a potential fire station site. Having a fire station in this area will benefit the University with fire station locations near the east and western boundaries, and greatly improve emergency service to the eastern and southern edges of the City, as well as improve service to County residents living outside City limits. Additionally, the Fire Department provides services in addition to medical and fire suppression which include; hazardous materials response, water rescue, extrication and rescue. These services are principally housed at the main station and utilize personnel taken from the downtown engine and ladder truck companies. Map 10.2 Proposed Fires Station and Fire Response Area portrays the level of service area if a fire station were to be constructed in West Laramie and the relocation of Fire Station In addition to these two locations two additional locations have been identified for potential longer range, (20 years or more) future fires station locations. The placement of these future locations could change depending upon need and development patterns. Potential Flooding Hazards Flooding is the presence of water on land that is usually not submerged. Laramie is no different than hundreds of other cities which have some body of water or major drainage areas that are capable of flooding. Laramie is bisected by the Laramie River and Spring Creek. (There are also several water/snow detention sites throughout the City.) These watercourses and the associated floodplain of the Laramie River as shown in Map 10.3, Flood Plains have been altered over time and are subject to future change. They have the potential, during peak flow, to overtop their banks with sufficient volume and velocity to damage adjacent structures, facilities and natural areas. As noted in the Chapter 7, Urban Growth, Spring Creek cannot be expanded without major bridge rehabilitation and right‐ of‐way acquisition as property has been developed right up to the channel edge. Some of these watercourses have also been gradually collecting sediment and growing vegetation over a period of years which can greatly diminish their ability to move flood velocities and volumes. As recommended in the Pre Disaster Mitigation Plan, no construction should be allowed within the 100 year flood plain without mitigation. Natural Hazards Snow and ice can make maneuvering difficult for vehicles, bicycles and pedestrians. Under some conditions, ice can form in gutters where trees and buildings provide shade. L A R A M I E C O M P R E H E N S I V E P L A N 1 0 - 5 ---PAGE BREAK--- CHAPTER 10: PUBLIC SAFETY Ice build up can also be prevalent on sidewalks for the same reasons. Snow and ice control consists of applying a melting agent to the streets during and after a snowstorm. The City of Laramie currently plows arterial and collector streets when the snow depth is three inches or if drifting occurs and ice buildup is removed when it begins to interfere with traffic and drainage. Residential streets are plowed when they are determined to be impassable. While it is important for the City to maintain traffic flow during and after a snowstorm, it is equally important for the residents to keep their sidewalks clear of snow and debris. Both increase the safety for motorists, bicycles, and pedestrians. Another potential natural hazard in Laramie can be caused by landslides from nearby ridgelines. A landslide is the downward movement of soil and rock which can be caused from excessive rainfall, human‐induced activity such as excessive irrigation or cutting slopes too steeply, earthquakes, or removal of vegetation (possibly due to wildfire). Slope areas greater than 15% and certain slopes with erosive soils may become unstable if disturbed. It is recommended that the City establish ordinances that may, for example, require a geologic/engineering review to evaluate the stability of hillsides before approving building permits, restrict grading, allow cluster development so that buildings are clustered on safer areas of a parcel and not erected on steep slopes, reduce intensity of development through regulations establishing maximum density, maximum lot coverage, minim parcel size, or minimum setback. Protection of the Casper Aquifer The Casper Aquifer is a sandstone‐limestone rock formation that is over 700 feet thick. Protection of the Casper Aquifer from groundwater contamination is both a concern for the City and the County of Albany because the City and several hundred homes within the County are dependent on the Casper Aquifer as a primary water source. (The City’s other source of water comes from the Laramie River.) The aquifer as shown in Map 10.4 Casper Aquifer Protection Area is vulnerable to contamination because the aquifer is fractured and has extensive exposures of porous sandstone, municipal supply wells and domestic wells are in close proximity to the recharges area, and Interstate 80 cuts through the entire thickness of the Casper Formation. Contaminants can enter the aquifer in the same manner as water. The City and County have worked together to develop the Casper Aquifer Protection Plan (CAPP) to protect the aquifer. As of July 2006, the overlay protection plan is being reviewed by Wyoming State Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ). DEQ comments are expected to be incorporated into the final document. Although, the CAPP is reviewed by the DEQ, it is the responsibility of the local City and County public agencies to adopt and enforce the Casper Aquifer Protection Plan. The goals and recommendations of the plan address issues such as development, vulnerable features, contamination sources, emergency plans, monitoring and water testing among many others. Hazardous Waste and Hazardous Materials Storage and Handling The objective of this section is to minimize the risks associated with hazardous waste treatment, storage, disposal and transport to ensure that the residents of Laramie and the surrounding environment are adequately protected. 1 0 - 6 L A R A M I E C O M P R E H E N S I V E P L A N ---PAGE BREAK--- CHAPTER 10: PUBLIC SAFETY Many commercial and industrial businesses, agencies, universities, households and others use, store, or produce hazardous materials. Households and small businesses tend to accumulate solvents and cleaners, petroleum products, paint, and pesticides. Commercial and industrial businesses make, use, or store larger amounts of hazardous materials due to the nature of their business. Additionally, the University of Wyoming has many chemical laboratories that contain many types of chemicals and radioactive materials, mostly in small quantities. These chemicals which are normally stored in some type of state or federal approved container are potentially hazardous if spilled, released into the atmosphere, or ingested. The University of Wyoming has a Regulated Materials Management Center, that is designed for materials that require special handling by law, which allows the University to handle them safely. Interstate 80 is a major transportation route and passes through Laramie. Transportation accidents on Interstate 80 are another hazard to consider as many trucks transport hazardous materials through Laramie and Albany County. Additionally, Interstate 80 crosses the Casper Aquifer, which is a major source of drinking water for the community of Laramie. A hazardous material spill over the Casper Aquifer could potentially impair the drinking water supply. Accidents involving the railroad, pipelines, and other vehicles have the potential to contaminate underground water levels, the land, air, and the streams. As noted in the Albany County Hazard Mitigation Plan, 2004, the 2002 report of the State Emergency Response Committee identifies that there were in excess of 70,000 placarded hazardous materials shipments on Albany County roadways in 2001. Further, the Union Pacific Railroad reported more than 70,000 placarded containers and approximately another 70,000 placarded railcars. Between 1992 through 2000 there have been at least seven derailments in the county. Derailments involved spills of cement, phosphorous, sulfuric acid, and 3000 gallons of noxious herbicide. These statistics show that this is a hazard that we must be prepared and ready for. The siting of future facilities handling hazardous waste should be considered. The City should consider the proximity to sensitive receptors, such as hospitals and other health care facilities, schools, day cares, other immobile populations, Casper Aquifer and The Laramie River, when reviewing new facilities and businesses involved in these activities and Casper . Brownfields are defined by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as “real property, the expansion or redevelopment, or reuse of which may be complicated by the presence or potential presence of a hazardous substance, pollutant, or contamination.” Contaminated Sites The objective of this section is to identify any contaminated sites within the Study area, and to minimize any health risks they may impose. As shown in Map 10.5 Potential Environmental Hazards sites are identified in and around the City where many different processes and situations may have resulted in site contamination or there is a perception the site may have been contaminated. Many of the sites listed pose no current risk or the risk has been mitigated. Sites on the map include any locations that sell or store paint, oil, paint thinner or other household material that could cause contamination, illegal dumping sites that are closed, remediated sites, one time spill locations, The City Landfill, injection wells, current and past underground tanks and mining sites among many others. One example of a contaminated sites being returned to productive uses is the 90 acre BP Amoco site adjacent to Cedar Street. Within the next couple of years, BP Amoco will clean up this site, and, hopefully, receive a no further action (NFA) letter under the Voluntary L A R A M I E C O M P R E H E N S I V E P L A N 1 0 - 7 ---PAGE BREAK--- CHAPTER 10: PUBLIC SAFETY Remediation Program from the Department of Environmental Quality. In addition another 30 to 40 contaminated sites within the city are currently being cleaned up. These positive actions can increase the value of the land, as well as bring the land back to a useful purpose. Airport Safety The Laramie Regional Airport is discussed in Chapter 8, Transportation. Social Services The objective of this section is to promote access to services and programs (prevention, treatment, and long term care) that will improve human health conditions for current and future residents of Laramie. As noted in Chapter 2, Conditions and Outlook, Laramie has a poverty rate above the national average. This could be a direct correlation or may be inflated due to the high student population in the Laramie. Additionally, there are those with physical and mental disabilities that may require more specialized services than those provided in community‐ wide programs, as well as a senior population that has it’s own social needs. Their needs may be related to private or public transportation, food, housing, employment, medical services or perhaps a combination of these items. Laramie, however, is fortunate to have places like the Eppson Center for Seniors, Albany County Public Health, Wyoming Department of Health, Laramie Youth Crisis Center, Ivinson Home for Aged Ladies, Interfaith‐Good Samaritan, Habitat for Humanity, Big Brothers Big Sisters, and various other generous entities that provide support to the community on a day‐to‐day basis. In addition, health care costs and other factors, such as lack of knowledge, limited mobility and cultural beliefs, prevent certain portions of the community from seeking both preventative care and treatment for illness. This can lead to increased rates of infection and the spread of disease, which can impact community health. Non‐communicable diseases, such as alcoholism and substance addiction, worsen without treatment and can also influence community health. The City recognizes that its resources are limited but will work with other government agencies, social service and health care providers, and non‐profit organizations to help all residents meet and maintain basic mental and physical health. Sewer, Water, and our Land Fill This information is discussed and recommendations are provided in Chapter 6, Public Utilities. Deterioration of Housing Units This information is discussed and recommendations are provided in Chapter 5, Housing and Neighborhoods. 1 0 - 8 L A R A M I E C O M P R E H E N S I V E P L A N ---PAGE BREAK--- CHAPTER 10: PUBLIC SAFETY Pedestrian Crossings The objective of this section is to promote safe pedestrian crossings at intersections and mid‐block crossings, and to minimize any health risks they may impose. Various community members noted certain locations as shown in Map 10.6, Pedestrian Crossing Safety in the City were they felt crossing a street was difficult for the pedestrian. Crossing Issues: Specific locations where traffic safety should be monitored. Highway 130 and Jefferson Street: Linford Elementary school is located approximately 1 block east of this intersection. Numerous children cross this street on a daily basis. 3rd Street and Clark Street: This intersection leads to one of three grade separated crossings between Laramie and Laramie’s Westside. Due to high traffic volumes crossings are difficult. 3rd Street and Grand Avenue: This intersection is the crossroads of two major thoroughfares in town. Additionally this intersection is considered an eastern entrance to downtown. 15th Street and Ivinson: University of Wyoming students frequent this intersection. The intersection is controlled by stoplights and a dedicated pedestrian crossing only time has been included in the signalization timing. Right turns on red are prohibited. 27th Street and Reynolds: Indian Paintbrush is located one block north of this intersection. Conflicts can exist as children utilize this crossing between the school and neighborhoods to the south. 30th Street and Grand Avenue: The intersection has high traffic volume moving in all directions. Pedestrian crossings are difficult to the large traffic volume in the area. Boulder Drive and Grand Avenue: At the present time no pedestrian crossings or signals exist in the area. Development of the Turner Tract, Recreation Center and Laramie Community College will increase pedestrian traffic in this area. Corridor Issues: More broad locations where traffic safety should be monitored. 9th to 21st Street along Grand Avenue: University of Wyoming Students that live south of Grand Avenue frequently cross Grand Avenue at a variety of locations. Limited protected crossings exist and visibility is limited due to old growth trees located within the right‐of‐way. 3rd Street to 9th Street along Grand Avenue: Numerous businesses and Civic Uses are located in this area. Limited protected crossings exist and frequently pedestrians cross unprotected. West Campus Perimeter: University of Wyoming students live and frequently park in neighborhoods to the north and west of the University Campus. Since the roads are set up on the city grid system students frequently cross at intersections. Some intersections are marked with crosswalks while other are not. UW Event Area Perimeter: Several crosswalks are located along the perimeter of major sporting events. However, pedestrians tend to move freely during events. Additionally, pedestrian activity levels are high during the winter season as basketball is in session. Night time basketball games create a potential for conflict as numerous sidewalks and crosswalks are poorly or not lighted. While it is extremely difficult to estimate pedestrian exposure to accidents, it is therefore more beneficial to look at other ways of making intersections safer for pedestrians throughout the community. Identifying these areas and monitoring their safety is an L A R A M I E C O M P R E H E N S I V E P L A N 1 0 - 9 ---PAGE BREAK--- CHAPTER 10: PUBLIC SAFETY important step to improving pedestrian safety (Pedestrian safety will also be part of the Traffic Enforcement Plan within the Laramie Police Department). Public Safety Goals and Action Statements In this section the goals and action statements for each element of the plan are set forth. The goals and action statements are to be used as a starting point to achieve the overall vision of this plan. Crime Prevention and Response Goals and Action Statements 1. Develop and maintain a comprehensive, current Emergency Operation Plan, in compliance with the National Response Plan to guide the response for emergencies, including hazardous material spills, slope failures, floods, storms and snow storms, fires or contamination. The plan will provide: a. Timely and coordinated response to emergencies that threaten community residents, property, and vital services. b. Identify City and other emergency response agencies that should be contacted, and also identify neighborhood resources available for more localized assistance and relief. c. Timeline for conducting periodic exercises of the Emergency Operations Plan. d. Organizational framework for implementation and development of the plan through the direction of the Fire Chief. e. Development and maintenance of an adequate Emergency Operations Center (EOC). f. Evacuation routes shall be included in City and neighborhood emergency response plans. It should also include methods for residents who are without, or unable to operate vehicles. This recommendation would also include the use of the Emergency Alert System (EAS) on radio and television giving the public relevant information. g. Expansion and upgrade of the radio warning system and outdoor system. Capacity to quickly and efficiently notify affected residents through reverse 911 or some other means is needed. The outdoor warning system is old and unreliable. The City presently lacks the means to notify the public of hazards or evacuation orders. h. Public education programs alerting and educating the public on what to do in a emergency situation as well as what the public can do to help. 2. Develop building and site design standards for crime prevention. This can be accomplished during the code revision that will immediately follow the comprehensive plan. 3. The Police Department is currently seeking a location for a substation in the downtown area. It is recommended that this item move forward. Their presence in the downtown area is a positive attribute for the police and the community. 1 0 - 10 L A R A M I E C O M P R E H E N S I V E P L A N ---PAGE BREAK--- CHAPTER 10: PUBLIC SAFETY 4. Possible relocation of current police station in to a more central location. This may be a long‐term recommendation if the Police Department were to obtain a location for a substation in the downtown area. 5. Encourage cooperative fire and law enforcement. This is best accomplished within the fire and law enforcement communities themselves. Their funding concerns, however, need to be addressed by local, state, and federal elected officials to ensure they have Solid, Realistic and On‐going Verifiable Training as well as the tools to do their job in a professional and safe manner. This would also include court services. Various state and federal grants are available that are specific to a particular task. It is incumbent upon the local agencies and elected officials to apply for these grants, as well as developing stronger relations with their elected officials at the state and federal level. 6. Funding for public safety education within the community. This covers fire fighters and police officers to attend school functions; public information booths at community events; classes such as first aid, EMT – Basic Class, and community responders, etc. Citizens Emergency Response Training (CERT) is in its infancy in Laramie. This program needs to expand and reach to include many more citizens. These classes are usually free to the community, but it does require city staff to facilitate the meetings and pay for the materials. 7. Construct a new jail or redesign the current facility to accommodate more inmates. Grants should be requested from the Wyoming State Loan and Investment Board. Funding from the City and County will also be required as a local match for the state grant. 8. Work with the Albany County Health Department, with support from other County and State agencies to obtain grants for a detox facility. A detox facility could delay the need for a new jail facility. 9. Secure a site for a juvenile detention facility. Grants should be requested from the Wyoming State Loan and Investment Board. Funding from the City and County will also be required as a local match for the state grant. In addition, there may be an opportunity to work with the Albany County School District and Big Brothers Big Sisters to provide temporary educational opportunities and make available valuable role models. Fire Hazards Goals and Action Statements 1. The City shall enforce the International Building and Fire Codes (IFC and IBC) currently in effect. 2. Continue to incorporate Fire Department review for developments to ensure that driveways, turn arounds, and other access ways have sufficient width, vertical clearance, slope, and turn‐around clearance for fire fighting vehicles and emergency response vehicles. Additionally, Fire and Police review is also recommended on street naming issues to avoid communication errors when responding to calls for service. 3. Discourage development in areas where water supply or fire flows lack the necessary volume. L A R A M I E C O M P R E H E N S I V E P L A N 1 0 - 11 ---PAGE BREAK--- CHAPTER 10: PUBLIC SAFETY 4. Maintain existing mutual aid agreements with Albany County and the State of Wyoming’s fire resources. 5. Maintain fire hydrant spacing so that no residential structure is more than 400 feet from a hydrant and no commercial or industrial structure is no more than 200 feet from a hydrant, as noted in Municipal Ordinances. Each fire hydrant should have the adequate fittings and be capable of providing adequate water flows to meet fire department standards. Future code revisions should refrain from changing these standards unless changes in development warrant such a change. 6. Require fire suppression devices in new and renovated non‐residential buildings and all residential structures with more than four units, even when not required by fire and building codes. 7. Maintain and expand the City’s fire prevention and fire fighting capability with adequate facilities, equipment, personnel and training. Potential Flooding Hazards Goals and Action Statements 1. Minimize increases in the volume and the flow of stormwater runoff associated with new development, so as to minimize increases in the hazards and the costs associated with flooding. This can be done through additional landscaping and decreasing impervious material. 2. Minimize the erosion potential from a construction site or development through erosion controls so as to prevent deposition of sediment in creeks and rivers. 3. To the extent practical, acquire or require easements and properties necessary for effective drainage management. 4. Restrict floodplain areas to agricultural, recreation, open space or other low density uses. Setbacks from stream corridors and floodplains can be written into a zoning ordinance. This may suffice to restrict development in the floodway and adjacent to a stream. Development should be restricted from potential flood zones. Natural Hazard Goals and Action Statements 1. Keep sidewalks clear of snow and debris to the greatest extent possible. This can be accomplished by enforcing City ordinances currently in place, using Public Service Announcements (PSA’s), reminders in local newspapers and City’s website, rubber stamping utility bills, or other traditional and non‐traditional methods. 2. Establish policies requiring a geologic review to evaluate the stability of hillsides before approving building permits. Restricting grading, allow cluster development so that buildings are clustered on safer areas of a parcel and not erected on steep slopes, reduce intensity of development through regulations, establishing maximum density, maximum lot coverage, minim parcel size, or minimum setback can all aid in helping reduce natural hazards. 1 0 - 12 L A R A M I E C O M P R E H E N S I V E P L A N ---PAGE BREAK--- CHAPTER 10: PUBLIC SAFETY Protection of the Casper Aquifer Goals and Action Statements 1. City and County must adopt and enforce the Casper Aquifer Protection Plan along with the goals of the plan. 2. Designate a contact person for all CAPP issues. This person would brief future elected City/County officials, provide updates for all CAPP issues, etc. This recommendation may include a full time position to deal with CAPP issues and other aspects of the City’s water supply. 3. Complete a source water assessment of the CAPP area to determine any known contaminates. This would be used as your baseline for future monitoring. 4. Develop a long term groundwater monitoring network. 5. Encourage the County to develop a septic system management program. If needed the City may want their own management program to deal with lands that directly affect city interests (i.e. aquifer protection area). 6. Develop and maintain an emergency team roster that would respond to any CAPP emergencies. 7. Establish City and County overlay zones to prevent inappropriate land uses. 8. Develop a contingency plan to handle any hazardous spills that could possibly contaminate the Casper Aquifer, as well as a contingency plan to handle any other type of contamination to the Casper Aquifer. 9. Develop a companion protection plan to protect surface water. 10. Establish a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with City, County, Wyoming Department of Transportation, University of Wyoming, and private companies like Mountain Cement, the Union Pacific Railroad that identifies roles and responsibilities if a hazardous spill were to occur over the Casper Aquifer. Hazardous Waste and Management Goals and Action Statements 1. Consider proximity to sensitive receptors, such as hospitals and other health care facilities, schools, day cares, and other immobile populations, when reviewing new facilities and businesses handling hazardous waste. 2. Businesses and agencies that use, store, or produce hazardous materials shall train employees and other users in safe handling and storage procedures, along with all other State, Federal and Local regulations. 3. The City should maintain and publicize a list of toxic substances which should be avoided and publicize collection dates and locations where these substances can be disposed of properly. 4. Establish a “Drop‐n‐Swap” facility where residents can bring left over household hazardous waste, along with items like clothes and furniture to be re‐used. Other residents are then allowed to pick them up to use as their own. L A R A M I E C O M P R E H E N S I V E P L A N 1 0 - 13 ---PAGE BREAK--- CHAPTER 10: PUBLIC SAFETY 5. Publicize used motor oil drop off locations. 6. City should be committed to ensuring that brownfield and contaminated sites within our community are cleaned up. Contaminated Sites Goals and Action Statements 1. Environmental Site Assessments shall be required prior to development review and approval of potentially contaminated sites, and cleanup is required prior to reuse. 2. Record and map sites having known contaminants, subject upon funds available. Wyoming DEQ has maps noting potential sources of contamination, which shows locations of every known underground storage tank, gas station, etc. It is unclear how often these maps are updated, but, certainly would be an appropriate starting point. 3. Depending on a site’s future use, determine whether a site is clean, somewhat contaminated, or heavily contaminated. 4. Determine the nature and extent of contamination and its possible impact on the potential use of the property. 5. Identify possible cleanup options for each site, or further assessment needs. 6. Provide an estimate of cleanup costs (if any) for any contaminated sites. Social Services Goals and Action Statements 1. Monitor social service needs through population trend analysis and other indicators, and distribute this information to various social service providers. 2. Encourage large employers to provide childcare services. 3. Promote work and health fairs. 4. Continue to offer discount passes to the Recreation Center for low‐income residents. 5. Identify potential locations for a community Social/Health Services Center to be developed in the future. Pedestrian Crossings Goals and Action Statements 1. See recommendations found in Chapter 8, Transportation, Non‐motorized Transportation System Goals and Action Statements. 2. Allow the Traffic Commission to periodically hold pedestrian safety symposiums to include City staff, police, attorney, ADA, street maintenance, elected officials, citizens and others interested in pedestrian safety. 3. Address crossing and corridor issues addressed in Map 10.6, Pedestrian Crossing Safety. 4. Enforcement of pedestrian safety by the police department is necessary. Enforcement may include warnings to citations, and should include enforcement of violation by drivers as well as pedestrians. 1 0 - 14 L A R A M I E C O M P R E H E N S I V E P L A N ---PAGE BREAK--- CHAPTER 10: PUBLIC SAFETY 5. Where feasible, install audible pedestrian traffic signals. The sounds from the audible signals are intended to alert pedestrians to the WALK phase in the signal cycle thus encouraging them to start crossing the street before the light changes. The sound can generate sound pressure up to 75 Db, which is a benefit to the visual impaired and to the elderly. 6. Where feasible, install pedestrian countdown timer, and “LOOK” crosswalk pavement markings and advanced pavement markings. 7. Where feasible, install left turn phasing for vehicles. This would allow vehicles to execute a left turn and reduce the frustration of the driver who may not benefit from a “left‐turn arrow.” 8. Provide bicycle and pedestrian education in an effort to inform the public who use the roads about traffic laws and regulations when it comes to bicycles and pedestrians. L A R A M I E C O M P R E H E N S I V E P L A N 1 0 - 15