Council places TAP grant resolution for Town Branch Trail phases 4-5 on Jan. 15 docket

Councilmember Reynolds moved on Jan. 13 to place on the Jan. 15 council meeting docket a resolution authorizing Urban County Government to apply for $4,700,000 in federal Transportation Alternatives Program funds to support Town Branch Trail phases 4 and 5. The motion, which included language authorizing the mayor to execute application materials and accept the award if received, was seconded and approved by voice vote.

Staff described the scope and timing in response to council questions. A staff presenter explained that the walk-on items cover work on segments 4 and 5 (from Bazell Drive to just in front of the Fire Training Center) and noted the project will require utility relocations located in private utility easements, which the city must pay to move. The contractor and utility work would involve Kentucky American Water on Old Frankfort Pike and KU work near the treatment center by New Circle Road. Staff said design for segment 3 is still underway and that, with TAP funds in hand, the city hopes to put the project out to bid as soon as this fall and begin construction next spring, anticipating two construction seasons for completion.

Council discussion focused on scheduling and coordination with utilities. No formal vote to accept grant funds occurred at the work session; the council motion was to place the grant-resolution item on the Jan. 15 docket so the full council can consider final authorization and any required matching funds. The resolution text presented to the council specifies a $1,175,000 local match obligation if the grant is awarded.

Next steps identified in the presentation: complete any outstanding design for segment 3, finalize easement-related relocation costs, prepare bid documents pending grant award, and bring the grant-acceptance resolution to the Jan. 15 council meeting for final action.