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HomeMy WebLinkAbout06807ORDINANCE NO. 6807 AN ORDINANCE APPROVING A GRANT AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE STATE BOARD OF THE GREAT OUTDOORS COLORADO TRUST FUND AND THE CITY FOR THE ARKANSAS RIVER CORRIDOR LEGACY PROJECT AND AUTHORIZING THE PRESIDENT OF THE CITY COUNCIL TO EXECUTE SAME WHEREAS, City Council supported an application to Great Outdoors Colorado to secure funding for the Arkansas River Corridor Legacy Project. WHEREAS, the City of Pueblo has established partnerships with Federal, State, and local agencies and organizations for the implementation of river and habitat enhancements, and environmental education, trail and river park improvements; and WHEREAS, the Board of the Great Outdoors Colorado Trust Fund deferred the award of the Arkansas River Corridor Legacy Project funds until the City received a commitment of federal funds from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for the Arkansas River Fisheries Habitat Restoration Project; and WHEREAS, the City of Pueblo received notification from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in March 2002 that construction funding for the Arkansas River Fisheries Habitat Restoration Project was approved by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers which meets the condition of the grant award from the State Board of the Great Outdoors Colorado Trust Fund. BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF PUEBLO, that: SECTION 1. The Legacy Project Grant Agreement (the "Agreement ") between the City and the Board of the Great Outdoors Colorado Trust Fund dated April 8, 2002, a true copy of which is attached hereto, is hereby approved in accordance with its terms, provided however, that neither this Ordinance nor any provision of the Agreement shall constitute, nor be deemed to constitute, an obligation of future appropriations by the City Council, nor a general obligation or other indebtedness or multi - fiscal year direct or indirect City debt or other financial obligation within the meaning of Article X, §20 of the Colorado Constitution or other debt limitations under law. SECTION 2. The President of the City Council is authorized and directed to execute the Agreement in the name of and on behalf of the City and the City Clerk shall attest same. INTRODUCED: March 25, 2002 BY: Patrick Avalos COUNCIL PERSON APPROVED: PRESIDENT OF CITY COUNCIL ATTESTED BY: \_ P, L�' 1\,J\ CI CLERK PASSED AND APPROVED: April 8, 2002 �h L4 U �J Background Paper for Proposed ORDINANCE AGENDA ITEM # - A DATE: MARCH 25, 2002 DEPARTMENT: PLANNING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT /JIM MUNCH TITLE AN ORDINANCE APPROVING A GRANT AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE STATE BOARD OF THE GREAT OUTDOORS COLORADO TRUST FUND AND THE CITY FOR THE ARKANSAS RIVER CORRIDOR LEGACY PROJECT AND AUTHORIZING THE PRESIDENT OF THE CITY COUNCIL TO EXECUTE SAME ISSUE Should Citv Council approve a Legacy Project Grant Agreement with the State Board of the Great Outdoors Colorado Trust Fund for the Arkansas River Corridor Legacy Project? RECOMMENDATION Conditional Approval of the Ordinance. BACKGROUND The City of Pueblo is the primary project sponsor of the Arkansas River Corridor Legacy Project which includes the construction of a River Habitat Project on the Arkansas River that includes the development of a fish passage structure that will also function as a recreational boating course, improvements at the Greenway and Nature Center of Pueblo, a River Otter Exhibit at the Pueblo Zoo, improvements to the Arkansas River Trail System, environmental education sites at Lake Pueblo State Wildlife Area, and a riverfront park and access along the river levee. The GOCO grant agreement will conditionally commit $2,000,000 from Great Outdoors Colorado for the project. The City will be required to front the $2,000,000 of the GOCO grant funds. Subject to the contingencies and conditions of the grant contract being met and performed the GOCO grant contract will allow for an annual reimbursement of the grant funds during the 3 -year project period ending June 30, 2005. The City will also enter into separate agreements with Colorado State Parks, Colorado Division of Wildlife, Pueblo County, Greenway and Nature Center, Inc., and the Pueblo Zoological Society to secure the matching funds and grant obligations and requirements for each of the components of the project. The project construction period is three years beginning in June 2002 through June 2005. Except for the $400,000 in City funds, the partner funds will replenish the City's commitment of $4,492,000 general fund surplus. The two original grant contracts with attachments are enclosed for signatures. The copies for the City Council background papers include the grant contract with application page and budget from the original grant application only (the entire grant application is not included due to its size - 50 pages), and the Technical Supplement to Land Acquisition Grants has not been included due to its size (70 pages). The complete agreement with all attachments is available from either the City Clerk's Office or the Planning and Community Development Office. The commitment of federal funds to the City for the Arkansas River Habitat Restoration Project was a condition placed on the Legacy Project grant award by the GOCO Board. The City is entering into a Project Cooperation Agreement with the Army Corps of Engineers that will provide $4,284,000 in federal funds to the River Habitat Project. The Army Corps of Engineers will spend $929,000 prior to the construction of the River Restoration Project for the environmental analysis, ecological restoration report, final design, specifications, and project bid documents. The South Pacific Division of the Army Corps of Engineers has committed the balance of $3,355,000 in construction funds. This commitment satisfies the condition of Great Outdoors Colorado for the award of the Legacy Project funds. The $3,355,000 in federal construction funds will be provided as follows: FY02 $142,000; FY03 $2,000,000; FY04 $1,038,000; FY05 $35,000 and final balance to complete project of $140,000. FINANCIAL IMPACT The City of Pueblo will need to front the expenditure of the GOCO grant funds over the 3 -year term of the project. GOCO will reimburse the City funds on an annual basis based on the City submitting documented project expenses in each of the fiscal years. An ordinance establishing the Capital Improvement Project in the approximate amount of $8,776,000 and budgeting, appropriating and transferring $4,492,000 from the general fund surplus to the capital improvement fund for the Legacy Project is being submitted concurrently with this request to approve the grant agreement. GREAT OUTDOORS COLORADO May 13, 2002 Scott Hobson City of Pueblo 211 East `D' Street Pueblo, CO 81003 Re: Arkansas River Corridor Legacy Project (GOCO Log #0740) Dear Scott: I am enclosing a signed original of the grant agreement between GOCO and Pueblo for the Arkansas River Corridor Legacy Project. Congratulations on receiving the Army Corps funding that allowed GOCO's $2 million commitment to be solidified. I am also enclosing our local government application form that describes eligible costs that will be applicable for most of the Legacy project elements, along with a Grant Administration Supplement that describes how GOCO can make reimbursements on project elements. As we discussed, I will now work with GOCO's Board to determine the quadrant(s) from which this $2 million will be designated. I'll keep you involved as we progress through that process, since we will both need to know the quadrant allocations for GOCO reimbursements on this project. GOCO's current cash flow projections indicate funds will be available for payment during these quarters: Quarter Amount Apr — Jun 2002 $500,000 Jul — Sep 2002 $250,000 Oct — Dec 2002 $250,000 Jan — Mar 2003 $250,000 Apr — Jun 2003 $250,000 Jul — Sep 2003 $250,000 Oct — Dec 2003 $250.000 $2,000,000 If projects will not be ready for reimbursement on this timeframe, we have some flexibility to rearrange the scheduled payments on this project, particularly by delaying and/or consolidating scheduled funding. If you would like to revise this schedule to fit your project needs more directly, please send me a budget and/or work plan indicating your preferred payment scenario. Thanks very much. Sincerely, Janis Whisman Senior Program Manager Enclosures STATE BOARD Of THE GREAT OUTDOORS COLORADO TRUST FUND 1600 BROADWAY ' SUITE 1650 ' DENVER, CO 80202 ELLPHONE 303- 863 -7522 FACSIMILE 303- 863- 75 KECEIVEO MAY 1 5 2002 E -MAIL: LEGACY PROJECT GRANT AGREEMENT LEGACY PROJECT: Project Name: Arkansas River Corridor Legacy Project Project Completion Date: June 30, 2005 GOCO Contract No.: 0740 PARTIES TO AGREEMENT: Board: The State Board of the Great Outdoors Colorado Trust Fund Address: 1600 Broadway, Suite 1650 Exhibit B Denver, CO 80202 Telephone: (303) 863 -7522 Fax: (303) 863 -7517 Contact name: Janis Whisman Grantee: City of Pueblo Address: 211 East "D" Street Exhibit B Pueblo, CO 81003 Telephone: (719) 583 -4486 Fax: (719) 583 -0572 Contact name: Scott Hobson Date: 0 1 � ( 2-4 , 2002. Exhibits: Exhibit A Project Application Exhibit B Project Resolution Exhibit C Work Plan Exhibit D Technical Supplement to Land Acquisitions 1 10/6/98 Version RECITALS A. The State Board of the Great Outdoors Colorado Trust Fund (the "Board ") is a political subdivision of the State of Colorado, created by Article XXVII of the Colorado Constitution, adopted at the November 1992 General Election, which article designates a portion of the net proceeds of the Colorado Lottery to the Board and directs the Board to invest those proceeds in the State =s parks, wildlife, open space and recreational resources. B. The Board created a statewide Legacy Project Grant program designed to further the following: (a) wildlife programs through the Division of Wildlife; (b) outdoor recreation programs through the Colorado Division of Parks and Outdoor Recreation; (c) open space and natural areas programs though the Colorado Division of Parks and Outdoor Recreation and Colorado Division of Wildlife, municipalities, counties, or nonprofit land conservation entities; and (d) local government open space, trails and other outdoor recreation facilities. The goal of the Legacy Project is to bring together public and private organizations in the spirit of cooperation and with a common goal to complete various phases of a project of statewide benefit. C. The City of Pueblo ( "Grantee ") submitted a detailed project application (the "Project Application "), a copy of which is attached hereto as Exhibit A and incorporated herein by reference, to the Board for the completion of the project entitled and described above (the "Project "). In the Project Application, Grantee proposed projects that would involve financial and non - financial partnerships with are variety of entities, including Pueblo County, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Colorado State Parks, the Colorado Division of Wildlife, Greenway & Nature Center of Pueblo, Pueblo West Metropolitan District, Pueblo Zoological Society, Pueblo Board of Water Works, Pueblo Conservancy District, Southern Greenback Chapter, Arkansas Valley Audubon Society, University of Southern Colorado, Friends of the River Trails, Pueblo Paddlers, and Colorado State University. D. The parties intend this Agreement to be the detailed grant agreement required of Grantee by the Board. AGREEMENT NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the foregoing, and other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the parties hereto agree as follows: 2 10/6/98 Version ARTICLE I Project Description 1.1 Project and Conditions On May 20, 2000, the Board approved the Project as described in the Board's project resolution attached hereto as Exhibit B (the "Project Resolution ") and incorporated herein by reference, subject to the following contingencies: (i) total net proceeds available from the lottery programs equals or exceeds $78,000,000 each year and the Board continues to receive its portion of the total net proceeds as currently allocated under Article XXVII of the Colorado Constitution; (ii) Grantee execute a detailed grant agreement with the Board; and (iii) Grantee discharge all of its obligations under the grant agreement with the Board. The Board also placed a condition on the Project that Grantee must first secure a federal funding commitment from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in the amount of $4.08 million. Grantee has secured this funding and more from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and has provided the Board with written evidence of the grant award. 1.2 Work Plan To implement and complete the Project, Grantee has completed a detailed work plan which describes all the phases of the Project and includes, among other items, a multiple year budget (through the completion of the Project) with anticipated sources and uses of funds, Grantee's requested schedule of payments of the Grant from the Board, schedules of the specific phases of the Project and/or a list of key dates, and any known or anticipated contingencies to completion of the Project (the "Work Plan"). The Work Plan adjusts the Project budget and timelines from those contained in the Project Application. The Work Plan also contains the Board approved allocation of the Grant among GOCO's four funding categories. Grantee acknowledges and agrees that the Board must review and approve the Work Plan, the budget, and any revised budgets contained within the Work Plan or Addendum (as described below) to determine if the timing of requested annual appropriations can be supported by the net proceeds available to the Board from the lottery programs. A copy of the Work Plan is attached hereto as Exhibit C and incorporated herein by reference. 1.3 Legacy Project Grant Partners Agreements To establish a method and process for local decision making relative to administering and implementing the Work Plan, the various entities including, but not limited to those comprising Grantee in this Agreement may separately enter into grant partners agreements ( "Partners Agreements "). The Partners Agreements shall set forth guidelines for: prioritizing projects; completing project components identified in the Work Plan; establishing a budget; updating the Work Plan; and general administration of the Project through the Grantee as agent for the project partners. a. Annual Addenda Grantee hereby covenants and agrees to update the Work Plan each year during the term of this Agreement by means of an addendum to this 3 10/6/98 Version Agreement ( "Annual Addendum'). Each Annual Addendum must be approved by both the Board and the Grantee, include a comparison of actual expenditures to the budget, and revisit and revise, where appropriate, the Work Plan in light of the net proceeds available to the Board from the lottery programs, Grantee's demonstrated progress toward completion of the Project, and Grantee's changes in expectations and goals under the Work Plan. If the Grantee is requesting an appropriation for a specific phase of the Project that differs from the Work Plan or the most recently executed Annual Addendum, a revised Annual Addendum containing a clear explanation of how the new phase fits within the overall plan or vision for the Project, a specific description of the newly proposed phase, and a budget and timeline for implementation of the new phase reflecting the proposed sponsor /partner match must be executed. Grantee acknowledges and agrees that appropriation and payment of portions of the Grant in subsequent years is expressly contingent on the execution of an Annual Addendum for such year by Grantee and the Board. b. Matching Funds Grantee has undertaken responsibility for obtaining the matching funds and in -kind contributions described in the Project Application, the Project Resolution, and the Work Plan. Grantee hereby covenants and agrees to disclose to the Board in each Annual Addendum the status of efforts to secure matching funds and the changes, if any, in Grantee's proposed allocation of the Grant among GOCO's four funding quadrants. If at any time the Grantor reduces the amount of grant funding provided in the then current Annual Addendum, the Grantee shall have the option of reducing the scope and schedule of the Work Plan and the associated match funds to the same proportion as the reduction of Grantor funding, which reduction shall be accomplished through an Annual Addendum. The Grantee and or Grantee shall not be held responsible for securing or providing match funds proposed by other parties as designated in the Partners Agreement. 1.4 Project Scope The Project will not be materially modified by Grantee without the written approval of the Board. Grantee shall use the Grant solely to complete the Project, as approved by the Board under the Project Application, Project Resolution, Work Plan and each Annual Addendum. Grantee hereby covenants and agrees to use its best efforts to complete the Project. ARTICLE II Legacy Grant Award 2.1 Grant The Board hereby authorizes future grants in an amount not to exceed $2,000,000 (Two Million and No/ 100 Dollars) (the "Grant ") to be used by Grantee solely to complete the Project, subject to the contingencies and conditions described in Section 1.1 above. The grant will be allocated by the Board to it's funding quadrants at a later date. 4 10/6/98 Version 2.2 Scheduled Appropriations and Disbursement of the Grant It is anticipated that the Grant will be distributed between the date of this Agreement and June 30, 2005. Each year the Board will appropriate a specific portion of the Grant for distribution to Grantee in the then current fiscal year to complete specific phases of the Project. The initial appropriation will be in 2002 and will provide funding for those specific phases of the Project expected to be completed prior to June 30, 2003. Each succeeding appropriation will pertain to the applicable fiscal year running from July 1 to June 30. Grantee =s schedule of anticipated and requested appropriations is set forth in the Work Plan. ARTICLE III Designation of Agent 3.1 Agent Given that the Project will be completed by multiple entities and in an effort to coordinate the communication among these various entities and with the Board, Grantee hereby agrees to be the sole and exclusive agent for administering the Project and this Agreement, including but not limited to, contact with the Board and its staff in all matters pertaining to the Work Plan and all official requests for funding of a specific appropriation of the Grant. To the extent the power to do so has been properly granted to Grantee by individual participating Grantee entities through Partners Agreements, the Grantee shall approve each Annual Addendum and otherwise act on behalf of such partner entities. ARTICLE IV Covenants Applicable to Particular Aspects of the Grant 4.1 Grantee acknowledges that the Project may consist of various phases comprised of the following activities: (i) planning, project coordination and administration, and environmental program development ( "Planning Activities "); (ii) land acquisition and acquisition of conservation easements ( "Property Acquisition Activities ") as more particularly described in the Technical Supplement to Land Acquisition Grants (the "Technical Supplement "), a copy of which is attached hereto as Exhibit D and incorporated herein by reference; (iii) trail development, facilities development and expansion or enhancement of existing facilities ( "Facilities Development Activities "); and (iv) habitat restoration and enhancement ( "Habitat Restoration Activities "). With respect to the aforementioned activities, Grantee hereby acknowledges, covenants and agrees as follows: a. Planning Activities The Board shall only pay those Eligible Costs for 5 10/6/98 Version Planning Activities set forth in GOCO's application materials for its standard planning grants. b. Property Acquisition Activities Grantee will meet and discharge the standard conditions and due diligence requirements set forth in the Technical Supplement, including but not limited to the implementation of a Use Restriction on the acquired property, as described in the Technical Supplement. The Board shall only pay those Eligible Costs for Property Acquisition Activities set forth in the Technical Supplement. C. Facilities Development Activities. The facilities constructed under this activity will be maintained for twenty -five (25) years or the useful life of the facility as more particularly described in the Technical Supplement. The Board shall only pay those eligible costs for facilities development activities set forth in GOCO's application materials for its standard local government facilities development grants or which are standard for Colorado State Parks or Division of Wildlife facilities grants, depending upon which GOCO quadrant will provide the funding for the facilities in question. d. Habitat Restoration Activities On property under Grantee =s control, Grantee will undertake no act or omit to undertake an act that results in the degradation of the habitat either restored or enhanced under this activity. On private property not under Grantee =s control, Grantee will use their best efforts to ensure the landowner will undertake no act or omit to undertake an act that results in the degradation of the habitat either enhanced or restored under this activity. The Executive Director may require a Use Restriction where appropriate. The Board shall only pay those Eligible Costs for Habitat Restoration Activities that are standard for Division of Wildlife habitat restoration grants. ARTICLE V Disbursement of the Grant 5.1 Process for Disbursement a. Written Request for Disbursement The Grantee, must submit a written request for disbursement of all or a portion of then current appropriation at least forty-five (45) days prior to the requested disbursement. It is acknowledged and understood by all parties hereto that Grantee will coordinate disbursement requests from the various project partners including non -profit and state agencies with disbursement from Grantor to be made directly to the agency or organization responsible for implementing specified projects as described in a specific request and documented in the Work Plan. 6 10/6/98 Version b. Additional Documentation In addition to the written request for disbursement, Grantee must also provide to the Board or its authorized agent, as an express condition precedent to disbursement, the following items relative to the following activities (as these activities relate to the specific phase of the Project for which a disbursement is requested): (1) Planning Activities Grantee must submit: (i) documentation confirming that the benchmarks for funding set forth in the then current Work Plan or addendum have been met; (ii) itemized funding and expenditure documentation verifying the sources of funds and that the costs are Eligible Costs; and (iii) such other items or information as required by the Board to document eligible expenditures on project components. (2) Propertycquisition Activities Grantee must submit: (i) documentation confirming that the standard conditions and due diligence requirements for Property Acquisition Activities have been met; (ii) itemized funding and expenditure documentation verifying the sources and uses of funds and that the costs are eligible for payment at closing (as more particularly set forth in the Technical Supplement); and (iii) such other items or information as required by the Board to document eligible expenditures on project components. (3) Facilities Development Activities: Grantee must submit: (i) documentation confirming that the facilities will be open to the public, and operated and maintained in a reasonable state of repair for the purposes set forth in the Project Application, then current Work Plan and addendum for at least twenty -five years or the useful life of the facility; (ii) itemized funding and expenditure documentation verifying the sources and uses of funds and that the costs are Eligible Costs; (iii) documentation confirming that the benchmarks for funding set forth in the then current Work Plan or addendum have been met; and (iv) such other items or information as required by the Board to document eligible expenditures on project components. (4) Habitat Restoration Activities Grantee must submit: (i) documentation confirming that the habitat that is restored or enhanced will be maintained in its restored or enhanced state in perpetuity. On property under Grantee =s control, Grantee will undertake no act or omit to undertake an act that results in the degradation of the habitat either restored or enhanced under this activity. On private property not under Grantee =s control, Grantee will use their best efforts to ensure the landowner will undertake no act or omit to undertake an act that results in the degradation of the habitat either enhanced or restored under this activity; (ii) itemized funding and expenditure documentation verifying the sources and uses of funds and that the costs are eligible for reimbursement; (iii) documentation confirming that the benchmarks for funding set forth in the then current Work Plan or addendum have been met; and (iv) such other items or information as required by the Board to document eligible expenditures on project components. 7 10/6/98 Version 5.2 Additional Information Required for each Phase Prior to disbursement of any portion of the Grant, the following information must also be submitted to the Board or its authorized agent. a. Promptly upon execution of this Agreement, Grantee will submit the following: (1) a resolution adopted by Grantee's governing body authorizing the execution of this Agreement and approving its terms and conditions. (2) the Work Plan for the Project. b. Prior to disbursement of funds for any phase of the Project, Grantee must provide written evidence of the following: (1) all permits and approvals necessary to the completion of the phase of the Project under applicable local, state and federal laws and regulations have been obtained; (2) no material modifications or delays have been made or experienced, unless the Board has been advised of the modifications or delays and has elected to continue to participate in the funding of the Project; (3) matching funds have been received, or the status of efforts to secure matching funding has been disclosed to Board staff and it has been found to be satisfactory; and (4) the representations made to the Board in the Project Application, Work Plan and the then current addendum continue to be true, or, if there have been any material changes, the Board has been advised of such changes and has consented to them. (5) The Executive Director may waive one or more of the previous conditions to disbursement but may require satisfaction of one or more of these conditions subsequent to disbursement. 5.3 Withdrawal or Reduction in Funding Grantee hereby acknowledges and agrees that the Board shall have the right to withdraw or reduce funding of un- appropriated amounts of the Grant for the following reasons: (i) Grantee is in breach of this Agreement as set forth in Section 6.10 hereof; (ii) the cost of a specific phase is less than the amount itemized in the Work Plan or addendum for that specific phase; (iii) the total net proceeds available from the lottery 8 10/6/98 Version programs does not equal or exceed $78,000,000 each year or the Board does not continue to receive its portion of the total net proceeds as currently allocated under Article XXVII of the Colorado Constitution; (iv) lack of required matching funds; or (v) the Board reasonably determines that conditions have occurred which fundamentally change the expectations of the parties or which make the Grant infeasible or impractical. In the event funding is withdrawn or reduced for the reasons set forth in items (ii) through (v) above, the Board shall provide the Grantee at least 120 -days written notice prior to such withdrawal or reduction and the Executive Director will consult with the Grantee relative to mutually acceptable alternatives. Upon the Board =s withdrawal of funds pursuant to items (iii) through (v) above, and upon receipt by the Grantee of notice of such withdrawal, Grantee shall be released of any obligation for future phases agreed to in a previous Work Plan or Addendum. ARTICLE VI. Other Provisions 6.1. Technical Supplement Grantee acknowledges and agrees that the Technical Supplement contains additional obligations of Grantee and procedures for administering the Grant. The Board may revise the Technical Supplement from time to time, and any revisions to the Technical Supplement shall be mutually acceptable to the Board and Grantee and apply to this Agreement as if fully set forth herein, except to those portions of the Agreement the parties mutually agree have already been performed or are already substantially underway at the time such revisions are accepted, or as otherwise agreed by the parties. Grantee shall be responsible for coordinating review and acceptance of such revisions by project partners. In the event the Technical Supplement conflicts with the terms of this Agreement, the terms of this Agreement shall govern. 6.2 Compliance with Regal, atory Requirements and Federal and State Mandates Grantee hereby assumes responsibility for compliance with all federal, state and local regulatory requirements in all applicable areas, including but not limited to nondiscrimination, worker safety, local labor preferences, environmental laws, rules and regulations, preferred vendor programs, equal employment opportunity, use of competitive bidding, and other similar requirements. To the extent allowed by the Colorado Governmental Immunity Act and other applicable State and local law, Grantee hereby agrees to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless the Board, its members, officers, agents or employees, from any cost, expense or liability for any failure to comply with any such applicable requirements. a. Grantee acknowledges the Board is not acting as, and shall not be construed to be as acting as an owner, manager or operator of any property (real or personal), 9 10/6/98 Version facility or activity arising out of or in connection with the Project under any applicable law, including but not limited to any applicable environmental law, rule or regulation. b. Grantee agrees and acknowledges that in each instance in this Agreement the Work Plan, or any addendum, in which the Board or the Executive Director is required or has the right to review or give its approval or consent, no such review, approval or consent shall imply or be deemed to constitute an opinion by the Board or the Executive Director, nor impose upon the Board or the Executive Director, any responsibility for the design or construction of building elements, including but not limited to the structural integrity of life /safety requirements or adequacy of budgets or financing or compliance with any applicable federal or state law, or local ordinance or regulations, including any applicable environmental laws. All reviews, approvals and consents are for the sole and exclusive benefit of the Grantee as required by this Agreement, the Work Plan or addendum and no other person or party shall have the right to rely thereon. 6.3 Nondiscrimination In connection with the performance of this Agreement, Grantee and its contractors shall not unlawfully discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, religion, color, national origin, ancestry, disability, marital status, age or sex, and shall comply with any other applicable laws prohibiting discrimination. Grantee and its contractors shall ensure that the evaluation and treatment of their employees and applicants for employment are free of such discrimination. 6.4 Publicity and Project Information Grantee hereby agrees: a. Grantee shall acknowledge Board funding in all publicity issued by it concerning the Project; b. Grantee shall cooperate with the Board in preparing public information pieces, and shall give the Board the right and opportunity to use information gained from the Project. C. Grantee shall give timely notice of the Project, its inauguration and significance to the local members of the Colorado General Assembly, members of the board of county commissioners of the county or counties in which the Project is located, as well as to other appropriate public officials; d. Grantee shall give the Board thirty (30) day notice of and opportunity to participate in Project dedications. 10 10/6/98 Version e. Grantee shall erect temporary and permanent signs, where appropriate, acknowledging financial assistance from the Board and the lottery programs in a form designated by the Board. Notwithstanding the foregoing any signage shall meet local codes. 6.5 Liabili . a. To the extent allowed by law, Grantee shall indemnify, defend and hold harmless the Board, its officers, agents and employees from any and all liabilities, claims, demands, damages or costs (including reasonable attorneys= fees and expenses of defending such matters) resulting from the acts or omissions of Grantee, its officers, agents and employees in connection with this Agreement, except to the extent caused by the negligence or willful and wanton conduct of the Board, its officers, agents or employees. b. Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement to the contrary, no term or condition of this Agreement shall be construed or interpreted as a waiver, either express or implied, by any party to this Agreement, of any of the immunities, rights, benefits or protection provided under the Colorado Governmental Immunity Act as amended or as may be amended (including, without limitation, any amendments to such statute, or under any similar statute, or under any similar statute which is subsequently enacted ( "CGIA "), to the extent the same may apply to the Board or any individual Grantee entity. The parties agree that no provision of this Agreement shall be construed in such a manner as to reduce the extent to which the CGIA limits the liability of any party to this Agreement. C. To the extent that Grantee is comprised of more than one entity, the obligations of Grantee under this Section shall be separate, and not joint and several. 6.6 Audits and Accounting Records Grantee shall maintain standard financial accounts, documents, and records relating to the acquisition, use, management, operation and maintenance of the Project. The accounts, documents, and records related to the acquisition of any portion of the Project shall be retained by Grantee for five (5) years following the date of disbursement of funds by the Board under this Agreement, and shall be subject to examination and audit by the Board, or its authorized agent, with reasonable prior notice and at reasonable times during this period. The accounts, documents and records related to ongoing use, management, operation and maintenance of the Project shall be retained by Grantee for five (5) years following the year to which the records pertain, and shall be subject to examination and audit of the Board, or its authorized agent, with reasonable prior notice and at reasonable times during this period. All accounts, documents, and records described herein shall be kept in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. 11 10/6/98 Version 6.7 Grantee =s Inability to Complete Project If Grantee determines with reasonable probability that the Project will not or cannot be completed as reflected in the Project Application, then current Work Plan or addendum, Grantee will promptly so advise the Board, and cooperate in good faith with respect to alternative solutions to the problem before any further funds are advanced. The parties acknowledge that all obligations of the Board or Grantee set forth herein are subject to the annual appropriation of funds for use consistent with such obligations. 6.8 Completion Date Grantee shall complete the Project no later than June 30, 2005 (the "Completion Date "). The Board, in its sole and absolute discretion, may extend the Completion Date for the Project. 6.9 Assignment Grantee may not assign its rights or delegate its obligations under this Agreement without the express written consent of the Executive Director which consent may be withheld in the sole and absolute discretion of the Executive Director. In the event that Article XXVII of the Colorado Constitution, which established the Board, is amended or repealed to terminate the Board or merge the Board into another entity, the rights and obligations of the Board hereunder shall be assigned to and assumed by such other entity as provided by law, but in the absence of such direction, by the Colorado Department of Natural Resources or its successor. 6.10. Breach In the event that Grantee breaches any of the terms or conditions of this Agreement and fails to cure such default after thirty (30) days prior notice from the Board, the Board shall have the following remedies: a. Prior to Payment of all of the Grant The Board reserves the right to withdraw funding and/or terminate this Agreement, in whole or in part. b. After Payment of the Grant The Board reserves the right to deem Grantee ineligible for participation in future Board grants, loans or projects. C. Additional Remedies In addition to the remedies set forth in 6.10(a) and (b) above, the Board shall be entitled to pursue any other remedy available at law or in equity. 6.11 Good Faith There is an obligation of good faith on the part of both parties, including the obligation to make timely communication of information that may reasonably be believed to be of interest to the other party. 6.12 Applicable Law Colorado law applies to the interpretation and enforcement of 12 10/6/98 Version this Agreement. 6.13 Status of Grantee The parties acknowledge that the Board lacks the power and right to direct the actions of Grantee. Grantee acts in its separate capacity as an independent contractor and not as an officer, employee or agent of the Board or the State of Colorado. The Board and Grantee hereby acknowledge and agree that this Agreement is not intended to create a joint venture between the parties to this Agreement. Grantee represents to the Board that the person(s) executing this Agreement has the authority to do so and to bind the party or entity on behalf of which it signs to the terms and provisions of this Agreement. 6.14 Entire Agreement Except as expressly provided herein, this Agreement constitutes the entire agreement of the parties. No oral understanding or agreement shall be valid unless made in writing and signed by the Board, the Grantee, and to the extent required, the individual partner entities. 6.15 Multiple Year Obligations To make certain the understanding of the parties because this Agreement will extend beyond the current fiscal year, the Board and Grantee understand, acknowledge, agree and intend that, except for that portion of the Grant which has been appropriated by the Board for payment in the current fiscal year, the financial obligations created under this Agreement in no way constitute either a current or future obligation or expense of the Board or Grantee. The appropriated amount for a specific fiscal year shall be payable exclusively from Board funds and shall not in any way be construed to be a general obligation indebtedness of the State of Colorado or any agency or department thereof. The Board has not pledged the full faith and credit of the State, or any agency or department thereof to the payment of the Grant hereunder, and this Agreement shall not directly or contingently obligate the State or any agency or department thereof to apply money from, or levy or pledge any form of taxation to, the payment of the Grant. 6.16 Time is of the Essence Time is of the essence in this Agreement. 6.17 Survival To the extent necessary to carry out all of the-terms and provisions hereof, the said terms, obligations and rights set forth herein shall be deemed not terminated after the Grant has been fully disbursed; nor shall they be necessarily merged with the various documents executed and delivered at such time. Subsequent ongoing obligations of Grantee, as set forth in the Project Application, final Work Plan, or final addendum, shall continue beyond the final disbursement of the Grant. 6.18. Notices Any notice, demand, request, consent, approval, or communication that either party is required to give to the other shall be in writing and either served personally or 13 10/6/98 Version sent by first class mail, postage prepaid, addressed as follows: To Grantee: Scott Hobson or Legacy Project Coordinator City of Pueblo 211 East "D" Street Pueblo, CO 81003 To the Board: Executive Director State Board of the Great Outdoors Colorado Trust Fund 1600 Broadway, Suite 165 Denver, CO 80202 6.19 Fax and Counterparts This Agreement may be executed in one or more counterparts, each of which shall be an original but all of which when taken together shall constitute one Agreement. In addition, the parties agree to recognize signatures to this Agreement transmitted by telecopy as if they were original signatures. 6.20 Construction Each party hereto has reviewed and revised (or requested revisions of) this Agreement, and therefore any usual rules of construction requiring that ambiguities are to be resolved against a particular party shall not be applicable in the construction and interpretation of this Agreement. 6.21 Severability If any provision of this Agreement is declared void or unenforceable, such provision shall be deemed severed from this Agreement, and the balance of this Agreement shall otherwise remain in full force and effect. 6.22 Third Party Beneficiaries The Board and Grantee hereby acknowledge and agree that this Agreement is intended to only cover the relative rights and obligations between the Board and Grantee and that no third party beneficiaries are intended. 14 10/6/98 Version IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this Legacy Project Grant Agreement of the date set forth with their respective signatures. STATE BOARD OF THE GREAT OUTDOORS COLORADO TRUST FUND L ATTEST: City Clerk APPROVED AS TO FORM: City Attorney Date: CITY OF PUEBLO By: �� 0, a"—� Its: Presi of the Ci Council Date: April 8, 2002 15 10/6/98 Version Exhibit A Project Application [See Attached] 16 10/6/98 Version Legacy Project Summary Information Please review all eligibility requirements before completing this two page summary. Please respond in the space provided. 1. Project Sponsor(s): CITY OF PUEBLO, COLORADO 2. Primary Sponsor (must be eligible recipient, see Eligibility Requirements page 3): Address: NO. 1 CITY HALL PLACE PUEBLO, CO 81003 Contact Name: JAMES F. MUNCH Title: DIRECTOR OF PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT Telephone #: (719) 543 -6006 Fax #: (719) 543 -0572 3. Project Partners: Pueblo County, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Colorado State Parks, Greenway & Nature Center of Pueblo, Colorado Division of Wildlife, Pueblo West Metropolitan District, Pueblo Zoological Society, Pueblo Board of Water Works, Pueblo Conservancy District, Southern Greenback Chapter of Trout Unlimited, Arkansas Valley Audubon Society, University of Southern Colorado, Friends of the River Trails, Pueblo Paddlers, Colorado State University Community Technical Assistance Program Please provide an attachment with names, addresses, .contacts /titles, and telephone /fax #s, for all project partners. 4. Project Title: PUEBLO ARKANSAS RIVER CORRIDOR LEGACY PROJECT 5. Project Location: - U.S. Congressional District(s): THIRD Colorado House District #(s): 45 & 46 County(s): PUEBLO Colorado Senate District #(s): 3 Ifproject is statewide, please type statewide afterproject location and disregard the district and county location requests. 6. Two or More Funding Categories Advanced by this Project. Please see Eligibility Requirement 91, page 3 before responding to this section. LOCAL GOVERNMENT OPEN SPACE summary information continued on neut page... STATE PARKS Ij f 7. Brief Description of the Project: The project is a multi - agency endeavor that will improve wildlife habitat, environmental education, and compatible recreation along the Arkansas River both within the stream and along the river corridor. The project is the vision of the Pueblo Natural Resources & Environmental Education Council ( PNREEC). The PNREEC Council, formed in 1995, includes more than 75 organizations and citizens. The project is divided into two phases that has been - developed by the PNREEC partners through a grant funded by GOCO in 1999. The two phases identify a series of improvements along the corridor from Lake Pueblo to the confluence with Fountain Creek. The first phase consists of the following six projects: 1) a 9.5 -mile stream enhancement project in the Arkansas River; 2) outdoor facility improvements at the Greenway & Nature Center of Pueblo; 3) improvements to the Pueblo River Trail System and new trail connections to Pueblo West, the St. Charles Mesa, and the Pueblo Zoo; 4) environmental education improvements at the west end Lake Pueblo and in conjunction with river improvements; 5) a river otter exhibit at the Pueblo Zoo; and 6) a park along the river and two river accesses. The second phase includes six additional projects that are a combination of new projects and the expansion of projects that are included in the first phase. These projects include: 1) acquisition of the land and water rights on the 300 -acre Chain of Lakes along with the development of the Lake Pueblo State Park Day Use Area, the Goodnight Environmental Information and Historic Site and habitat improvements on the Chain of Lakes property, 2) a pedestrian bridge from the Nature Center to the Chain of Lakes; 3) environmental education improvements at five new sites; 4) acquisition of a 1.5 -mile rail spur between City Park and the Chain of Lakes, along with expansion of the St. Charles Mesa Trail and nature trails; 5) modification of a lowhead dam below City Park; 6) development of the Corona Street riverpark and one new river access. I The City is requesting funding assistance during the current Legacy funding cycle for projects in the Phase 1. The City of Pueblo is the primary project sponsor and is committing $661,000 over the three -year project period. The City of Pueblo's commitment includes $650,000 in cash match and $11,000 of in -kind matching funds. The Pueblo Arkansas River Legacy Project is the first phase of a plan that includes seven additional future projects including the expansion of recreation facilities along the Arkansas River within Lake Pueblo Park, river corridor open space acquisitions, environmental education stations, and additional river parks and trail linkages. 8. Project Funding: Grant Request: $ 2,600,000 Cash Math (project period) $ 6,489,000 In -Kind Match (project period): $ 161,000 (prior cash): $ -0- (prior in- kind):$ -0- Total Project Cost: (project period + prior investments) $ 9,250,000 9. Aut46rizJd Signature: • ti . l llel�� Date Corinne Koehler, President of Pueblo City Council i H. WEIGHTED SELECTION CRITERIA GREAT OUTDOORS COLORADO LEGA CY PR OJECTS 1. Overall Vision/Context A. What are the vision, objectives, and general timeframe of any related overall plan that may have been the origin of the current Legacy project? The geography of the Arkansas River Corridor is vaned enough to provide for a wide variety of activities. The broad expanse of Lake Pueblo, next to its shoreline bluffs and prairie offers habitat for wildlife; the wide open expanses of water and land allow people to experience the outdoors. At the same time, the Arkansas is the great integrator of the city; a narrow ribbon that serves as a confluence of people and activities. The vision for the Arkansas River has evolved over time. It is generally agreed that the genesis of the vision to protect the corridor occurred during the 10 -year period between the 1965 Fountain Creek Flood and the completion of Lake Pueblo in 1975. This vision became part of the community's popular culture with the development of the Pueblo River Greenway Plan. Like many of the community's planning efforts, this was a citizen driven partnership undertaken by the Board of the Pueblo Nature Center, the Pueblo Regional Planning Commission, and the Pueblo Conservancy District. This plan initiated the intergovernmental framework for the protection, enhancement, and stewardship along the Arkansas River in Pueblo County. The Pueblo River Greenway Plan (1976) identified the five key areas of focus to guide the vision of the Arkansas River and Fountain Creek Waterways. Those areas of focus are: 1) Lake Pueblo State Park and State Wildlife Area - Work with the Colorado Division of Parks and Outdoor Recreation and the Colorado Division of Wildlife to enhance wildlife habitats and wildlife educational opportunities, and to develop recreational facilities such as a trail along the river below the Pueblo Dam. 2) Arkansas River Corridor — Five key objectives including: a) Improve fish habitats and fishing access both on the Arkansas River and in the Runyon Lake Wildlife Area; b) Create an Environmental Education Center at the Pueblo Greenway and Nature Center; c) Acquire the necessary property to develop a trail -with accompanying recreational improvements between Lake Pueblo and the Fountain Creek confluence; d) Make stream improvements and modifications to existing diversion structures to facilitate rafting and kayaking between Lake Pueblo and Runyon -Lake; and e) Acquire, restore, and protect the "Chain of Lakes" between Lake Pueblo and Pueblo Boulevard. 3) Downtown — Six key objectives including: a) Improve both native in- stream and non- game habitats along the river corridor, b) Extend the Arkansas River Geenway and ensure water availability; c) Acquire necessary land for the trail corridor and develop multi -use urban trail linkages and trailhead facilities; d) Develop environmental education facilities and associated curriculum; e) create watchable wildlife opportunities; e) Develop a stewardship plan for the operation and management of the river corridor to ensure long- term sustainability. 2 4) Fountain Creek Corridor — Three key objectives including: 1) Acquire property for the development of trail improvements between the confluence of the Arkansas River and Fountain Creek and the University of Southern Colorado; 2) Develop the Fountain Creek Regional Park, and 3) Develop- environmental education facilities. 5) University of Southern Colorado — Continue working with the University of Southern Colorado to develop a trail and greenway linkage to the Fountain Creek corridor. Twenty years following the initial efforts of the Pueblo River Greenway Plan, the community's efforts were expanded through the organization of the Pueblo Natural Resources and Environmental Education Council ( PNREEC). PNREEC completed the Pueblo Natural Resources and Environmental Education Strategic Plan that identified significant natural resource and outdoor recreation opportunities within Pueblo County. PNREEC envisioned that this effort would invoke long range direction in planning and resource protection, along with building partnerships in developing environmental education opportunities and natural resource sites. As a measure of their significant efforts, the PNREEC members received statewide recognition from the Colorado Alliance for Environmental Education and the Colorado Chapter of the American Society of Landscape Architects. Fifty -seven pilot project sites throughout Pueblo County were identified in the PNREEC Strategic Plan. The projects were separated into four physiographic regions: Mountains, Foothills, Plains and Waterways. resource limitations, PNPjEEC identified the need to focus on a theme that exemplified the key goals of the group. The PNREEC members agreed to focus on a combination of plains and waterway pilot projects along the Arkansas River and Fountain Creek. PNREEC identified 16 high priority pilot projects along the two waterways. The key goals of these projects are to focus on the environmental qualities of the corridors, the interpretation of the ecological values, to allow trail access to the waterways for residents of nearby neighborhoods, and to provide compatible recreation amenities along the corridors. In 1999 the Fountain Creek Corridor suffered significant damage from flooding that occurred during the spring and summer. The high water damaged bridges, flooded - agricultural lands, and damaged recreation improvements from Manitou Springs, through Colorado Springs and Pueblo, and along the Arkansas River past LaJunta. The Pueblo Legacy Project initially envisioned improvements along both the Arkansas River and Fountain Creek. Following the assessment of the damage along Fountain Creek and the ongoing challenges of controlling its increasing water flow, the PNREEC Council decided to not include the proposed Fountain Creek and University of Southern Colorado pilot projects within the Legacy application. The vision of the Pueblo Arkansas River Corridor Legacy Project contains 10 of the 16 "high priority" projects that were identified by the PNREEC Council. These projects are also a reaffirmation of the goals within the first three areas of focus in the Pueblo River Greenway Plan. The first phase of the Pueblo Arkansas River Corridor Legacy Project includes the following projects (next page): PUEBLO ARKANSAS RIVER CORRIDOR PROJECT 3 Phase 1: (Current Legacy Phase) November /2000 — October /2003 (see Phase 1 map) 1) Arkansas River Fisheries Habitat Restoration - a 9.5 -mile stream enhancement project in conjunction with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, to improve fishery habitat and the streamside vegetation. The project includes the acquisition of necessary stream bank easements on private properties for the river restoration, along with the acquisition of a limited number of properties adjacent to the river which contain important habitat values. The restoration project incorporates access and safety features for boating along the eastern 5 -mile stretch of the river, 2) Greenway & Nature Center of Pueblo - Outdoor facility improvements, Raptor Center improvements, and habitat improvements; 3) Trails - Enhancements to the Pueblo River Trail System including new trail extensions to the Pueblo West community, the St. Charles Mesa community, and the Pueblo Zoo. Also, the project will upgrade the 25 -year old Pueblo River Trail and provide system -wide trail signs; 4) Environmental Education Sites — Improve two (2) environmental education sites on the western end of Lake Pueblo Wildlife Area. 5) Pueblo Zoo - Funding for the Colorado River Otter Exhibit; 6) Parks & River Access — Developing a multi - purpose river park along the Arkansas River with a boat launch, picnic area, trails, and river viewing -area. Also, the project will include two (2) public accesses to the river corridor and trail system. The park and one of the access points are located within areas that have low to moderate = income residents. Pueblo Arkansas River Corridor Project Phase 2: (Future Phase) May /2000 — April /2007 (see Phase 2 map) 1) Chain of Lakes — Acquisition of the eight reclaimed lakes that are between Pueblo Dam and Pueblo Boulevard. Seven of the lakes are included within a 250 -acre area on the south side of the Arkansas River and a 100 -acre lake is located on the north side of the Arkansas River. Water rights for a water augmentation plan will need to be acquired to offset the evaporation of water in the ponds.- The Goodnight Environmental Information Center will be developed on the south side of the Arkansas River next to the historic Charles Goodnight Barn and adjacent to State Highway 96. 2) Nature Center Bridge to the Chain of Lakes — Installation of a 250' pedestrian bridge from the Greenway '& Nature Center of Pueblo to the south side of the Arkansas River accessing the "Chain of Lakes ". 3) Environmental Education Curriculum — Develop a system -wide EE curriculum that synthesizes the existing curriculum programs into a comprehensive environmental education curriculum that will be used by primary and secondary teachers within School District #60 and School District #70. The environmental education curriculum be distributed through notebooks, CD ROM and on the Internet. 4) Recreational Trails — Acquisition and trail construction of a 24mile section of the Union Pacific rail spur linking City Park to the "Chain of Lakes ", and the acquisition and construction of a 1.5 —mile section of the Arkansas River Trail east of the City of Pueblo. 5) South Intake Diversion Dam = Modification of the 3` and final diversion dam providing a safe passage for kayaks and rafts along the Arkansas River. Develop additional put -ins and take -outs along the river. 6) Parks & River Access — A multi- purpose river park along the Arkansas River north of UniorrAvenue with a river viewing area, picnic area, along with one new public access to the river corridor and trail system. A detailed timeline for Phase I is included as an attachment to the grant application. B. What has already been accomplished towards this end? 0 The geography of the Arkansas River Corridor is varied enough to provide for a wide variety of activities. The broad expanse of Lake Pueblo, next to its shoreline bluffs and prairie offers habitat for wildlife, the wide open expanses of water and land allow people to experience the outdoors. At the same time, the Arkansas is the great integrator of the city; a narrow ribbon that serves as a confluence of people and activities. During the past 25 years the project partners have worked to balance and protect the unique resources along the corridor. Those efforts have included the following: Land Protection To date over 14,000 acres (97 %) of the Arkansas River Corridor from the western end of Lake Pueblo to the confluence with Fountain Creek is in public ownership. The land is owned by the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation (13,000 acres), Colorado State Parks (5 00 acres), the City of Pueblo (225 acres), and the Pueblo Conservancy District (300 acres) Wildlife Habitat Pueblo has already made significant progress in protecting and preserving the wildlife habitat that lives and travels along the Arkansas River through Pueblo. Through -the efforts of the Pueblo Conservancy District, Colorado State Parks, the City of Pueblo, the Arkansas Valley Audubon Society and the Greenway and Nature Center of Pueblo, the majority of the river corridor through Pueblo has been preserved as an open space greenway. Over the past 25 years there have been annual efforts to maintain the critical wildlife habitat areas surrounding Pueblo Reservoir, below Pueblo Dam, in the Olive Marsh wetlands area below City Park, at the Wildhorse Creek confluence, and at the Runyon Lakes area. Environmental Education Pueblo has been used as the model for many communities interested in establishing environmental education programs. The cooperative efforts of Lake Pueblo State Park, the Colorado Division of Wildlife, the Greenway & Nature Center of Pueblo, University of Southern Colorado, the Pueblo Zoo, and the Arkansas Valley Audubon Society have enabled the residents of Pueblo to enjoy a multitude of environmental education activities and programs for people of all ages. The "Teaching Environment Naturally" program designed to train teachers to better incorporate environmental education into the classroom was initiated in Pueblo and continues to be highly recognized and expanded throughout the state. The Pueblo Natural Resource & Environmental Education Council ( PNREEC) was established in 1995 and developed the PNREEC Strategic Plan that identified this project as its highest priority for implementation. In 1996 the PNREEC Strategic Plan received awards from the Colorado Alliance for Environmental Education and the Colorado Chapter of the American Society of Landscape Architects. Environmental education programs conducted by the Greenway & Nature Center, Pueblo Zoo, Colorado Division of Wildlife, and Colorado State Parks are 5 attended by more than 25,000 children each year. Children attend the environmental education programs conducted in Pueblo from the Pueblo area, as well as from the Southern Colorado region. It is not uncommon to have elementary and middle school field trips from schools in Rocky Ford, La7unta, Walsenburg, Canon City, Florence and other communities. Watchable Wildlife The Greenway & Nature Center of Pueblo has operated a Raptor Center for the rehabilitation of birds of prey, along with river observation stations, -and native plant - material gardens to interpret the indigenous plants of the Arkansas River region. One of the highlights for the Raptor Center was the release of an eagle by then Vice - President George Bush. The golden eagle had been treated and nursed back to health by the staff at the Raptor Center. The Nature Center is the most popular destination along the river trail system below Pueblo Dam. A 1999 trail survey indicated that 33% of all people that use the river trail start at the Greenway & Nature Center. - - The Colorado Division of Wildlife in partnership with the Arkansas Valley Audubon Society has established the Overton Wildlife Viewing Area overlooking the eagle rookery at the inlet to Pueblo Reservoir. While not fully developed, the -area provides spectacular opportunities to see bald eagles nesting in the tops of cottonwood stands, many of which are now partially covered by the water from Lake Pueblo. The Division completed a significant improvement to the access at the Conduit Trail Area in 1999. The access improvements totaling $524,581 have dramatically improved roadway drainage, the access to parking areas, closed unauthorized access points, and reduced the potential for resource damage in the wildlife areas. (See attachment to letter from_ Mark Konishi, Region Manager, CDOW) The Division of Wildlife has placed three handicapped accessible watchable wildlife docks at Runyon Lake State Wildlife Area, as well as one along the Arkansas River east of the 0 Street bridge. Recreation - Since 1975 a 37 -mile river trail system has been developed along the Arkansas River, Fountain Creek, Lake Pueblo State Park which includes linkages to some adjacent neighborhoods. The section along the Arkansas River (14.5 miles) and in Lake Pueblo State Park (16.5 miles) spans a total of 31 miles. All but four miles of the Arkansas River/Lake Pueblo segment have been in place for more than 20 years. The trails were built following the guidelines and standards available at that time. During the past five years, the 14.5 miles of trail in Lake Pueblo State Park have been resurfaced with asphalt and three miles of the Arkansas River segment through the City have been replaced with a wider concrete surface. A new trail bridge linking the trail on the south side of the Arkansas River to the Wildhorse Creek corridor. While much has been accomplished, there is still a need to upgrade six additional miles along the Arkansas River trail and a one mile trail spur connecting the Wildhorse Creek confluence to the Hyde Park neighborhood. Lake Pueblo State Park, with its boating, marinas, fishing, campgrounds, trails, swim beach and picnic facilities, has more than 1.7 million visitors a year. Lake Pueblo is the most visited State Park in Colorado and is a regional recreational destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The park natural resources and facilities contribute significantly to the habitat, environmental education opportunities and recreation needs of the region. The Colorado Division of Wildlife currently has a lease that allows for public fishing on two of 6 the "Chain of Lakes" ponds located on the south side of the Arkansas River between Pueblo Dam and the Pueblo - City limits. In addition to fishing activities, the lease provides for a public to hiking trail along a 1.0 -mile section of the Arkansas River. The second phase of the Arkansas River Legacy Project includes proposed funding for the acquisition of the Chain of Lakes ponds. Minimum Stream Flows The PNREEC partners have worked - cooperatively to provide for minimum stream flows in the Arkansas River below Pueblo Dam in order to sustain aquatic life. While there are no legal requirements to guarantee minim stream flows in the Arkansas River below Pueblo Dam, the two main water agencies are taking steps to provide water during low flow periods. The Southeastern Colorado Water Conservancy District and the Pueblo Board of Water Works have developed plans to provide a minim flow of 100 cfs in the Arkansas River during the winter water storage program. The winter water storage occurs between November and the end of February. Larger amounts of water are released beginning in March to prepare for spring runoff entering the Lake Pueblo. (See letter dated 3/20/00 from the PBWW) The Southeastern Colorado Water Conservancy District has drafted a Preferred Storage Options Plan that indicates a target of 100 CFS flow below Pueblo Dam during the Winter Water Storage operation. Prior to the construction of Pueblo Dam, it was not uncommon to for the Arkansas River drop below 100 CFS during the winter months. (See SCWCD letter) The Pueblo Board of Water Works (BOWW) has committed to develop a low flow operational plan for the Arkansas River to try - and limit the minimum low flow to 50 CFS. In the spirit of cooperation, whenever the flow in the Arkansas River drops below 50 CFS at the Arkansas River Gage below Pueblo Dam, the BOWW agrees to take a portion of its raw water flow up to a maximum of 17 CFS through its intakes located downstream of Pueblo Dam. G How does the current 'Legacy phase" of the project f t within the overall context? The current Legacy phase includes eight of the ten projects in Arkansas River corridor that are -identified in both the PNREEC Strategic Plan and the Pueblo River Greenway Plan. The only projects that will not be included in the current Legacy phase are the acquisition and enhancement of the Chain of Lakes, along with the pedestrian bridge linking the Nature Center to the Chain of Lakes. The Chain of Lakes is not included within this phase for two reasons: 1) The possibility of securing water rights to meet the requirements of a water augmentation plan for the evaporative loss of water is not likely to occur during the timeframe of the current Legacy phase; and 2) The gravel company which is required to reclaim the lakes could not guarantee that the revegetation of the property would be accepted by the State Mne Land Reclamation Board within the next two years. All of the projects included in this phase of the Arkansas River Corridor Project directly relate to the habitat, environmental education, and compatible recreation project goals. These projects fit into the project theme of protecting and improving the corridor, and providing better access and linkages to the river from adjacent neighborhoods and parks. The projects are integrated and complementary to the Arkansas River Fisheries Restoration Project that will improve the in- stream habitat and river bank vegetation below Pueblo Dam. The overall vision for the Arkansas River Corridor includes implementation of a stewardship plan. The projects included in this phase of the Legacy project will not create operation or maintenance requirements that are beyond the capacity the project partners. _ D. After the Legacy phase is complete, how will efforts continue to complete the implementation of the broader vision? The PNREEC Council will continue to work on the implementation of the additional improvements along the Arkansas River, and work to address the flooding issues that are prohibiting the implementation of a similar program along Fountain Creek. The following actions with be taken by the PNREEC Council and its representative organizations and agencies: Chain of Lakes 1. The City of Pueblo, Pueblo County, Division of Wildlife and Colorado State Parks will continue to work with the Pueblo Board of Water Works to provide a water augmentation plan for the "Chain of Lakes ". 2. The City, County, State Parks, or Colorado Division of Wildlife will secure an option to purchase the "Chain of Lakes" and the property containing the historic Goodnight Barn. 3. The City will secure funding for the construction of a pedestrian bridge across the Arkansas River to link the "Chain of Lakes" to the Greenway and Nature Center. 4. The City will continue to monitor the use of the Union Pacific rail lice west of City Park to the "Chain of Lakes" and attempt to acquire the R O -W if it is abandoned. 5. PNREEC will develop a stewardship and operations plan for the "Chain of Lakes" including maintenance, habitat protection, safety, and law enforcement. Riverfront Park and River Access - 1. The City will secure funding to develop a second riverfront park north of Union Avenue along the existing R -O -W for Corona Street. 2. The City will develop a river access within the undeveloped R -O -W of Spring Street. Environmental Education 1. PNREEC will continue to coordinate the enhancements to EE sites within Lake Pueblo State Park, at the Olive Marsh, and at Wildhorse Creek. 2. PNREEC will continue to incorporate environmental education as a component of all Arkansas River Corridor projects. 3. PNREEC will continue expanding ways to present environmental education programs to the youth through school programs and new technologies. Project Matching Funds unds 1. The City of Pueblo and Pueblo County will work to secure federal legislation to assist in funding the second phase of the Legacy Project through an additional authorization of funding to the Fryingpan- Arkansas Project. 2. The City will secure Scenic Byway funding to assist in the acquisition of the Chain of Lakes and historic Goodnight Barn property, along with the development of an environmental education information center on the property. Fountain Creek Corridor The City and County are- currently involved with the Fountain Creek Watershed Task Force who is studying the flooding and erosion problem along the Fountain Creek. The local government agencies will continue to play a major role in the management of the Fountain Creek. In the future when flooding problems are reduced along Fountain Creek, PNREEC will proceed with the implementation of the pilot project identified in their Strategic Plan. 2. But for — would the proket happen but for Leracy funding (Total 10 points) 0 The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is completing a feasibility study and environmental assessment for -the implementation of a fisheries and habitat improvement project within the Arkansas River. The project will be constructed along the 9.5 -mile section of the Arkansas River below Pueblo Dam to the confluence with Fountain Creek. The Army Corps of Engineers funding will provide $4.08 million dollars (64 %) of the fishery habitat, including modification of two diversion dams,. and the riverpark and river accesses improvement costs. The river restoration project within the levee section of the river will also enable the oldest section of the Pueblo River Trail System to be upgraded in conjunction with GOCO and other local matching funds. The City of Pueblo, as the project sponsor, will be responsible for providing the 35% local matching funds for the Army Corps of Engineers project. The City of Pueblo, Pueblo County, Colorado State Parks, and Trout Unlimited have committed - to provide $500,000 of the matching funds, and are seeking additional funds from non -profit foundations and community businesses and organizations. It is unlikely that the PNREEC partners will be able to secure the $2.3 million in local funds solely through contributions from the local government agencies. Without GOCO's participation, the opportunity of receiving $4.08 million dollars in federal funding will be lost. The Pueblo Board of Water Works will be installing a 3.5 -mile raw water pipeline from Pueblo Dam to their treatment facility. The preferred alignment for the pipeline is along the south side of the river passing through the parking area between the Center's interpretive building and the Cafe del Rio. The Board of Water Works has committed to provide funds to compensate the Nature Center for replacement costs of all improvements that will be impacted by the pipeline construction. This provides the opportunity for the Nature Center to utilize the funds from the Board of Water Works and GOCO to develop an environmental education area/plaza that will tie the two facilities together. Without the funding from GOCO at the appropriate time following the pipeline installation, the new facility will not be able to be completed. While the Pueblo Zoological Society has a good track record for funding and completing new facilities, GOCO funding is needed for the Colorado River Otter Exhibit to be financially feasible. Local fund raising efforts and assistance from private foundations alone will not provide the financial resources to complete the new exhibit at the zoo. The Arkansas River Corridor Legacy Project has brought together sixteen committed funding partners to complete the projects identified in the first phase. This coalition of agencies and organizations has been developed over a three -year period. The funding partners have worked to develop a realistic project that can be implemented within a three -year period. If the projects are not funded in the near future, it will be more difficult to continue to maintain the high enthusiasm and momentum that has been generated bythe local organizations and agencies. 3. Characteristics and Need for the Project (Total 40 points) A. Project Significance and Need LOCO Mission and Strategic Plan _ The Arkansas River Corridor Legacy Project meets the highest priority of the LOCO Board by providing for "the protection- and stewardship of land and water for open space, wildlife, parks and outdoor recreation." This project will be reduced by, 70% if the opportunity to receive the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers dQllars is missed. The GOCO Strategic Plan includes three core programs: l) Land, water and wildlife protection; 2) Outdoor recreation; and 3) Youth, environmental education, and interpretation. The Arkansas River Corridor project components-significantly contribute to all three core programs in the following ways: 4 1) Land, Water and Wildlife Protection Program The project incorporates two of the targeted initiatives by protecting an important river corridor within the State and also protecting a unique wildlife habitat corridor. The project includes significant habitat improvements along a 9.5 -mile section of the Arkansas River below Pueblo Dam. The river corridor furnishes important habitat for wildlife species that are dependent upon its riparian ecosystem. In fact 85% of the wildlife species in the region are found along the Arkansas River and its immediate tributaries. On a more limited scale the project will provide for the purchase of lands and easements for the Arkansas River corridor, open space, and wildlife. habitat. Since 97% of the river corridor is already in public ownership, acquisition of property is a smaller component of the overall project. 2) Outdoor Recreation Facilities Pro ,gram The project includes the establishment of new outdoor recreation facilities and regionally significant trails that serve Pueblo County, as well as the southern Colorado region. The new recreation facilities and trails include: a. The fisheries habitat improvements along the 9.5 -mile section of the Arkansas River will significantly improve the opportunities for fishing in the Pueblo region. The Arkansas River is a popular fishing destination, especially during the late fall and early spring months when weather conditions are generally more favorable than other front range areas. The 6.5 -mile section of river between Pueblo Dam and Wildhorse Creek is the only Class 1 Cold Water designated section of the Arkansas River east of Canon City. The cold water released from the depths of Lake Pueblo creates the cold water stream conditions. b. The Riverfront Park and kayak course creates a new outdoor recreation facility in the heart of Pueblo. (see letters of support for kayak course) c. The 3.5 -mile Pueblo West Trail provides a connection from the fastest growing area of Pueblo County through Lake Pueblo State Park to the 37 -mile Pueblo River Trail System. The Pueblo West community has increased to a population of 15,000 residents (which is the same size as Canon City.) 10 d. The 1.75 -mile St. Charles Mesa Trail provides a connection to the unincorporated area southeast of Pueblo that has a population of 10,000 residents. The St. Charles Mesa Trail alignment is along the nationally designated American Discovery Trail (ADT). The ADT is one of the national designated "millennium trails." 3) Youth, Environmental Education, and Interpretion Program The project includes four -(4) new environmental education facilities that will provide greater opportunities for the youth in the Pueblo communities to learn and become involved in the protection of wildlife and wildlife environments. These new . environmental education facilities will enhance programs that serve over 25,000 children in the Pueblo region and many of the Southern Colorado communities including. Fremont, Otero, Huerfano, and Crowley Counties. The new environmental education facilities include: a. Outdoor Education Classroom/Plaza and Raptor Center improvements at the Greenway & Nature Center of Pueblo. b. Colorado River Otter Exhibit at the Pueblo Zoo and a trail connection to the Arkansas River. c. Overton Viewing Area and Conduit Trail sites at the Lake Pueblo State Wildlife Area. d. Interpretive signs incorporated into all project sites along the Arkansas River corridor. Local Need The projects included in the Pueblo Arkansas River Corridor Legacy Project have been identified as community needs in three separate community plans adopted between 1996 and 1999. These plans have been reviewed and endorsed by forty agencies and organizations in the Pueblo region. The plans were reviewed publicly through an extensive public review and comments process prior to their adoption. The projects were initially identified as pilot projects by the PNREEC Council when the Pueblo Natural Resources & Environmental Education Plan was adopted. Following the adoption of the plan, the PNREEC Council recommended the projects along the Arkansas River Corridor as the highest priority that could bring together the greatest number of project partners. In addition to the local community needs, Lake Pueblo State Park, the Greenway and Nature Center and the Pueblo Zoo are experiencing demands to serve the growing population in the Pueblo region. Pueblo Reservoir is the most visited State Park in Colorado. A recent survey of the Pueblo River Trail System found that 33% of all trail use initiates from the Greenway & Nature Center and extends into Lake Pueblo State Park. The trail users identified the most important need as upgrading the trail surface along the existing river trail system. Significance o Protect (1) Special and unique opportunity that would not exist in the state if the project were not completed? 11 The project will improve wildlife habitat, develop additional environmental education facilities, and add new unique outdoor recreation areas along a 21 -mile section of the Arkansas River containing approximately14,000 acres. To date 97% of the area within the project boundary is managed as public lands. Through funding from LOCO, the V.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and local funding partners a 9.5 -mile section of the Arkansas River will be improved that will provide both a cold and warm water fishery. The river and its amenities can be utilized on a year -round basis due to Pueblo's favorable climate.; The habitat improvements are integrated with wildlife, plant, geological, and water resource education areas that include both natural and academic sites. A riverfront park with access for on -water activities provides a unique opportunity to transform the City's levee channel into an urban greenway. The combination and integration -of these projects will be linked by a 35 -mile multi-use trail system that will provide_ outdoor enthusiasts with truly special experiences not found in other areas of Colorado. (2) Protect important or unique wildlife habitat, topography, flora, or fauna? The Arkansas River corridor project area contains areas with "very high" wildlife habitat values according to the Colorado Division of Wildlife's Southeast Region Wildlife Significance Map included within the PNREEC Strategic Plan. The 5 -mile section of the river corridor below Pueblo Dam to Pueblo Boulevard is ranked as a "very high" wildlife habitat area. The remaining sections along the river corridor are rank as "high' ' wildlife habitat. Steven A. Sanchez, a Natural Resource Specialist and the founder of Beyond Fishing completed his Masters Degree thesis along the Arkansas River at the Greenway & Nature Center in 1998. While Mr. Sanchez was at the Nature Center, he completed an integrated ecological assessment of the Arkansas River corridor within the project area. The natural resource protection and restoration components of the project will help to preserve the following: Landforms Niobrara Formation limestone bluffs which extend from Pueblo Boulevard westward to the Pueblo Reservoir area. These bluffs remain as one of the few relatively undisturbed limestone bluffs between Pueblo and Canon City, Colorado. Plants • Frankenia jamesii Torrey (false heath), a member of the Frankeniaceae family, has been documented to occur only in limestone bluffs between Pueblo and Canon City along the Arkansas River. • Oonopsis fohosa (A. Gray) Greene (single -head goldenweed) , a Colorado Native Plant Society rare plant that is listed on the Federal Threatened and Endangered list (Spackman 1997) has been determined to be present in the project area. • Bolophyta tetraneuris (Barneby), W.A. Weber (Arkansas River feverfew), , a Colorado Native Plant Society rare plant was only known to be present at two limestone bluff locations until 1983, when nineteen other small populations were located (Colorado Native Plant Society 1989) • Ozybaphus rotundifolius (Greene) Standley (roundleaf four- o'clock), while not yet found, is in the Nyctaginaceae family in the Nyctaginaceae family is listed as a Colorado "very rare species" that occurs only within the Niobrara Geological 12 Formation which is found within the project area. Birds • Haliaeetus leucocephalus Linnaeus (bald eagle) — Federal_ Threatened and Endangered list — has been determined to be present in the project area. • Buteo regalis Gray (ferruginous hawk) — Federal Threatened and Endangered list — has been determined to be present in the project area. (3) Provide important or unique outdoor recreational opportunities? • The six mile stretch of the Arkansas River below Dam is classified as a Class 1 cold water fishery that anglers - actively use year - round. This is-due to Pueblo's generally mild winters, that attract thousands of anglers from throughout the front range. • The extended release of irrigation water from Lake Pueblo into the Arkansas River provides a unique potential to develop whitewater kayak course that can be operated from early spring to the end of October. In August - October, when the other boating rivers have limited flows, the Arkansas River through Pueblo carries an abundance of water to maintain challenging boating course. • The riverfront park and neighborhood linkages extend the river greenway into the "Hyde Park" and the "Blocks ", both low -to- moderate income areas. The "Blocks" is a unique 1880's neighborhood that was developed by General Palmer. The development received and urban design award at the 1900 New York World's Fair. The `Blocks" neighborhood contains a series of small parks interspersed through the winding streets. The City's vision for the area is to link the parks via landscaped walkways to the river. These improvements will be a catalyst for the revitalization of this unique neighborhood in Pueblo. (4) Provide or protect significant trail corridors for various uses? The project includes improvements to 3.5 -miles of the Pueblo River Trail between City Park and I -25 in conjunction with the river habitat restoration and riverpark. In addition a one -mile trail from the Wildhorse Creek confluence through Wildhorse Creek Park will improve access from the Hyde Park low -to- moderate income area. New multi -use trails linking from the Arkansas River Trail to the Pueblo West and the St. Charles Mesa communities will connect approximately 24,000 additional residents to the 37 -mile trail system. (5) Provide environmental and wildlife educational opportunities? The environmental education improvements at the Nature Center, Pueblo Zoo, Lake Pueblo Wildlife Area, and wildlife education sites in conjunction with the river restoration project will improve the opportunities for programs that have 25,000 participants that are primarily children. The EE programs serve the Pueblo communities that are comprised of over 50% hispanic population. (6) Local, regional or state deficiencies in trails, parks, open space, wildlife habitat, outdoor recreation facilities, urban open space, and/or environmental education opportunities that will be addressed by the proposed project or project elements. Describe how the project or project elements will address each deficiency. 13 a. Trail System Improvements - • The survey of trail users conducted in 1999 by the Friends of the River Trail indicated the 20+ year old. sections of the trail system along the Arkansas River needed to be upgraded and resurfaced. • Pueblo West the St. Charles Mesa which contain a total of 24,000 residents do not have trails within their communities. They are the largest communities outside.the boundary of the City ofPueblo that are not linked -to the River Trail System. b. Environmental Education While the Pueblo region has made significant inroads to providing a - quality environmental education program, the PNREEC Environmental Education Subcommittee has identified deficiencies at several of the outdoor education sites.. They Overton Wildlife Viewing Area and the Conduit Trail Area -do not have the following basic facilities: • Parking area that can accommodate school buses • Covered Classroom Shelter • Restroom Facility • Interpretive Signs R Project Integration The degree to which(]) the project integrates more than two of the four GOCO funding goals (Wildlife, Outdoor Recreation, Local Government, and Open Space), and (2) the project is cohesive: project elements are related to each other, and each project element is related to the entire project. Project components may include: land acquisitions, park development, trails, wildlife habitat, environmental education, etc. (1) Please describe how two or more of GOCO's four goals are advanced by your project. The Pueblo Arkansas River Corridor Project meets all four objectives of GOCO's funding categories. The project elements emphasize habitat restoration and preservation, environmental education, and recreation improvements. (See project budget, phase 1 & phase 2 budgets) The project's elements are integrated to focus on the Arkansas River corridor theme that incorporates objectives within each of the funding categories. The project elements that apply to each funding objective are described below: Open Space - The project includes the acquisition of stream bank easements in . conjunction with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers along a 2.6 -mile section of the south side of the Arkan sas River. The property, owned by Valco, Inc., a gravel operation will be utilized for in- stream habitat improvements and associated stream bank restoration. A request of $50,000 is included for the acquisition of a stream bank easement. It is our intent to structure the easement acquisition payment to be applied to the future acquisition costs of Valco's 300+ acre "Chain -of- Lakes" property that is identified in the second phase of the project. Currently, the gravel operation is not completed to a point which would allow for the property to be released from permits issued by the State Land Mine Reclamation Board. Since 97% of the project area is already in public ownership, the need to acquire additional open space has been limited to the river restoration project area. 14 Local Government - The project's primary emphasis is on the local government category funding for river habitat restoration, environmental education facilities, recreational trail upgrades, two river access areas, and a riverpark that will provide• a launching area for kayaks and rafts. The local government category request is for $2.25 million dollars. Over half of the funds ($1.21 million) will provide matching funds for the projected $5.7 million dollar Arkansas River Fisheries Habitat Improvements Project currently being planned by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Other uses of local government funds will = be for environmental education and habitat improvements at the Greenway and Nature _. Center of Pueblo, trail upgrades and signs along six miles of the Arkansas River and Wildhorse Creek trails, constructing four miles of natural surface trails at Runyon Lake and along the river corridor, a river otter exhibit at the Pueblo Zoo, the construction of the Pearl Street Riverside Park (with a whitewater kayak course) and improving river access points at Penn Street and City Park. All of these projects meet the criteria for funding. from the local government category. State Parks — The grant application includes a request for $300,000 of State Parks quadrant funding provided over a 3 -year period from September of 2001 through September of 2003. The release of State Parks quadrant funds is proposed to be $50,000 in 2001, $120,000 in 2002, and $130,000 in 2003. A proposed "Project Timeline & Release of Funds" of State Parks quadrant funds is included as an attachment with the budget information. The funds would provide matching funds to the Arkansas River fisheries restoration and trail improvements to construct three new frail connections and upgrade of the existing river trail. The new trails include the 3.5 mile soft - surface. Pueblo West Trail, the two mile St. Charles Mesa Trail that includes a bridge crossing the Arkansas River and a trailhead parking area, and a 2/3 mile hard surfaced trail connecting from the Pueblo Zoo through City Park to the river trail. The funding from State Parks will also include the upgrading of the trail east of Pueblo Dam along a 1.75 mile section within Lake Pueblo State Park. Wildlife - While funding is not able to be provided during this Legacy application cycle from the Division of Wildlife quadrant, the projects have a significant benefit to wildlife habitat and environmental education. The Arkansas River Fisheries Habitat Restoration project, fish passage structures at two check dams, environmental education sites and the short grass prairie habitat restoration project at the Greenway and Nature Center meet the criteria for funding from Division of Wildlife quadrant funds. (2) Please discuss how the project is cohesive. How is each element of the project important to the whole project? How are project elements related to each other? What will be achieved by integrating the project that would not be achieved through incremental funding of individual project elements? The project includes a major restoration of the habitat along a 9.5 -mile section of the Arkansas River that integrates the other projects into the overall theme of habitat improvements, environmental education and compatible outdoor recreation facilities. The. design of the river restoration project incorporates the integration of a riverpark with boating access, river viewing areas, park landscaping that ultimately links to the adjacent neighborhoods. The design and project program integrates the upgrading of the 20+ year old river trail. The construction schedule for these improvements is organized so that they. is a logical progression to the next step in the project and that each of these elements enhances the overall river corridor experience. 15 The river corridor is separated into two segments: Lake Pueblo to Wildhorse Creek (west) and Wildhorse Creek to Fountain Creek (east). The west area has a less urban character that focuses more on wildlife viewing, a more natural landscape, cold water fish habitat, and less developed surroundings. The east area is mare of a greenway in an urbanized setting with residential neighborhoods bordering the greenway. -The recreation improvements will be more of a developed park nature, the recreation facilities will_ be designed have a higher intensity of uses, and the river is a warm water fishery. Environmental education projects within and adjacent to the river integrate a strong interpretation component to the project. The EE projects focus on the wildlife that live and use the river corridor, along with the biological linkage between riverine, bluff, and adjacent prairie systems that are incorporated into the EE curriculum used in Pueblo's schools. The projects at the Nature Center, Pueblo Zoo, and the Lake Pueblo Wildlife Area all provide this integration. The Nature Center and the Zoo will be connected to the River Trail System. The connecting trails from Hyde Park ( Wildhorse Creek), Pueblo Zoo (through City Park), Pueblo West (through Lake Pueblo State Park), and from the St. Charles Mesa all lead to the focal point of the project; the Arkansas River Corridor.,, G Opportunity, Vr e vency /Jeopardy Projects which represent a unique opportunity in time. Urgency can be the current availability of dollars, the potential conversion of land to another use and/or a loss of an opportunity. (1) What is the overall urgency of the project? What is the opportunity lost if this project does not proceed immediately? What is lost if the project proceeds incrementally over a longer period of time? The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is currently having plans completed that will lead to the implementation of fisheries habitat improvements within the Arkansas River with construction estimated to begin at the end of the summer in 2001. The federal project provides funding for $4.08 million dollars, (64% of the habitat improvement costs.) The river restoration project within the levee section of the river will also enable the oldest section of the Pueblo River Trail System to be upgraded in conjunction with LOCO and other local matching funds. The local project sponsor is responsible for providing the 35% local matching funds. The City of Pueblo, Pueblo County, Colorado State Parks, and Trout Unlimited has committed to provide $500,000 of the matching funds, while seeking additional funds from non -profit foundations and interested organizations. But it is not likely that the PNREEC partners will be able to secure the $2.345 million in local funds solely through contributions from the local government agencies. Without GOCO's participation, it is not likely that the $4.08 million dollars in federal funding will be secured for the project. The Arkansas River Corridor Legacy Project has brought together sixteen committed funding partners to complete the projects identified in the first phase. This coalition of 16 agencies and organizations has been developed over a 3 -year period. The funding partners have worked to develop a realistic project that can be implemented within a 3 -year period. If projects are not funded in the near future, it will be more difficult to continue to maintain the enthusiasm that has been generated by the local organizations and agencies. If not for funding from GOCO the Pueblo Zoological Society would not be able to complete the Colorado River Otter Exhibit on its own. The GOCO funding would provide 66% of the funding. for the project and will be the catalyst for the remaining matching funds to be generated locally_ for the completion of the project. (2) What is the urgency of each distinct element of the project? Which elements are the most urgent? Arkansas River Habitat Improvements It is critical to have the local funding commitments in place to match the Corps of Engineer's $4.08 million dollars projected for the Arkansas River Fisheries Restoration Project. The U. S. Army Corps of Engineers is completing an Ecological Restoration Report and Environmental Analysis completed for the project. The cost of completing this work totals an investment of over $400,000 by the Army Corps of Engineers (see project partner letter). This element of the project provides a unique opportunity for Pueblo and the State of Colorado to have a significant river restoration project that passes through a portion of the most visited State Park in Colorado. As v�ith virtually all federal programs, the Corps is most interested in funding projects that have the local matching funds in place for the completion of the project. GOCO assistance in providing_ the local matching funds is the most urgent element of this project.- Greenwav & Nature Center Improvements (G& NC) The most urgent part of the G &NC's projects is the opportunity lost the development of the environmental education/plaza area. The Pueblo Board of Water Works is planning to install a 1.75 mile raw water pipeline from the Pueblo Dam to their existing water intake point along the Arkansas River east of the Greenway & Nature Center. The pipeline is planned to pass through the Nature Center's existing parking facility located between the Interpretive Center and the Cafe del Rio. Construction is anticipated to begin in December 2000 and take approximately 12 months. The Board of Water Works has committed to provide funds totaling the replacement value of the parking area, utility lines, and landscaping that will be removed during the pipeline construction (See project partner letter). The G &NC has completed a master plan that proposes to develop an environmental education area between the two buildings, rather than continuing to have a parking area. The use of the funds from the BOWW, in conjunction with funding from GOCO will allow the environmental education area to be developed in a way that would not be possible without partnering the two projects. The G &NC would have to pay the cost for the removal of the parking areas, as well as the new construction costs if the projects were not coordinated. Trail System Improvements The upgrading of the 20 -year old section of the trail system can be completed in conjunction with the river restoration project in a more cost effective manner than if undertaken independently. The other benefit is the ability to move the trail further away 17 from the river and to raise the elevation of the trail so the access points on the bluff are a gentler grade. Pueblo Zoo See comment above in Opportunity; UrgenMI eopardy Section (1) regarding holding partnerships together and the Zoological Society's need for funding that could not be realistically possible on an incremental basis. Rivgrparks & River Access The riverparks and river access improvements are being incorporated as a recreational component of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers project. Up to an additional 10% ofthe river restoration funding can be used for eligible associated recreation improvements. These projects_ are eligible for funding by the Corps of Engineers on a 50% federal and 50% local match. 4. Impact of the Proiect (Total 20 points) A. Direct Benefits of the Project for the Investment Required The relative value of the project proposed in relation to the total investment and GOCO's investment (bang-for-the- buck). Please respond to only those questions relevant to your project. If your project offers benefits not addressed here, please include. (1) How many acres of land will be protected as open space (including buffers /inholdings, natural areas, non game wildlife habitat, agricultural lands, greenways, community separators, and/or urban .open space)? Please provide the estimated acres of each type of open space acquisition. (Some acquisitions may serve more than one purpose such as agricultural lands and a community separator). To what extent will techniques such as land donation, easements, or other tools be'used to reduce the net outlay for the project? • An easement along 2.25 -miles of river that will allow for the river restoration to occur and be permanently protected through the property owned by Valco, Inc. • Up to ten acres of property containing wetlands or wetland buffers along the north side of the river between Peublo Blvd. and the BOWW treatment plant. The four property owners have all expressed a willingness to sell their property. (2) How many miles of new trail will be constructed? What, if any, links will they provide to other trails, parks, outdoor recreation facilities, etc. ? What is the cost per mile? • Fifteen miles of trails — 7.5 miles hard surfaced & 7.5 miles crusher fines • Links from Pueblo West, St. Charles Mesa & Pueblo Zoo through City Park to the River Trail System • Links from Hyde Park & Blocks neighborhoods to River Trail System • Hard surface trails $162,000 /mile (GOCO cost $76,000 /mile); $250,000 bridge (GOCO cost ($45,000); Crusher fines $20,500 /mile (GOCO cost $8,000) (3) How many acres of new parks (local, regional, or state) will be developed? • Six (6) acres 18 (4) How many environmental education opportunities will be provided? • Four project sites = Greenway & Nature Center, Pueblo Zoo, Overton Wildlife Viewing Area and the Conduit Trail Area • Greenway & Nature Center includes Outdoor Classroom/Plaza, Raptor Center, and along trails • The sign program along the River Trail System will also include interpretive sites (S) What non game fishfwildlife species will benefit from any associated land protection? • Since there is a minim amount of land that would need to be acquired for the project, the new property would have a limited impact on additional non -game benefits. Although the land already in public ownership within the project area provides substantial benefits to non -game species. • The fish habitat improvements will provide an abundant habitat protecting the various fish species. (6) How many communities and how many people will the project serve? Will the people served include local, regional, and state visitors and out -of -state tourists? Please provide an estimate of the numbers and types of individuals /communities served. • Communities served — Pueblo, Pueblo West, St. Charles Mesa, and other unincorporated areas of Pueblo County containing 145,000 residents • Environmental education facilities serve approximately 50,000 children from communities throughout Southern and southwest Colorado. • Lake Pueblo State Park has 1.7 million visitors annually to the park facility. Sixty (60 %) percent of those visitors are from outside of Pueblo County. (7) Does the project meet outdoor recreationlopen space needs of under served populations? • The Legacy project area is primarily located within areas that have a 50% or greater hispanic population, and are identified by the U.S. Census as being low -to- moderate income areas (see income and hispanic population map). • The Riverpark, Penn Street river access, Wildhorse Creek trail, and overall fishery, trail and habitat improvements are all within a 5 -mile section that is in under - served population areas. • Over 50% of the students in Pueblo school systems that are served by the Zoo, Nature Center, and Lake Pueblo are of hispanic origin. (8) Will youth be involved in project implementation or stewardship? If yes, please describe those project elements. • PNREEC is currently working with "Colorado Youth Corps Association" (CYCA) in identifying which areas of the project that could be accomplished by their program. Targeted projects for CYCA include trails, revegetation of stream banks, and the installation of signs. R Consistency with LocallRegional Government, State and Federal Agency Plans and Policies (1) Have local, regional, or statewide plans or policies identified and addressed the need for the project, and/or specific elements of this project in the region? If so, please describe and attach relevant sections of plans or policies 19 Pueblo Natural Resources and Environmental Education Strategic Plan (199 ) This plan has served as the basis for developing the project focusing on the enhancement and _ reclamation of the two major stream corridors within the City of Pueblo. The plan provides a list of potential pilot projects that are incorporated into an overall environmental education, protection of . wildlife habitat, and recreation theme. This plan will continue to provide the initial inventory information and public documentation supporting the concept for implementing projects within the plan. Pueblo Integrated Resource Management and Conservation Plan (1996) This document is a plan, prepared by the City of Pueblo, for the Arkansas River and its two tributaries, Fountain Creek and the St. Charles River. The purpose of the plan is to help resource managers understand the issues surrounding water use in Pueblo County and how to balance the traditional supply management approach with progressive demand - management. Recreationists on Pueblo's River Trail System, their preferences, opinions, and use patterns 1999 This trail survey obtained a sampling of 388 trail users to determine a variety of user preferences and demographic data. The conclusions included a greater interest in upgrading and improving existing trails, prior to the expansion of the trail system. Improvements to other trail access points could redirect users to areas that have less volume of traffic. Security was not as big a problem as anticipated. Twelve (12 1 /o) percent of the use comes from out -of -state and foreign visitors. Pueblo River Trail Expansion (1998) This plan identifies opportunities for the expansion of the Arkansas River frail system east beyond the confluence with Fountain Creek, with connections to the St. Charles River and the St. Charles Mesa neighborhoods. The plan proposes a series of construction phases to complete the trail project over an extended period of time. The plan will be used to evaluate initial trail alignment and design options to the link the St. Charles Mesa area to the existing river trails system. Teaching Environmental- Science Naturally Program (1995) This program developed by eight local, state, and federal agencies established a local outdoor environmental science classroom program. The program was developed to enable teachers to offer hands -on, first -hand experiences to students. A key objective of the program is to expose students to the nature and knowledge of science in order t_ o promote a sense of history and importance of science in their lives. Preliminary Master Plan (1994). prepared for the Pueblo Conservancy District The Pueblo Conservancy District was established - in 1922 to be responsible for the operation and maintenance of flood control facilities along the Arkansas River within the City of Pueblo. The Preliminary Master Plan was developed for. the Conservancy District as an initial assessment and concept for the development of lands along the Arkansas River as open space and recreation. The plan will also be used to guide the development of these recreational opportunities and public access to the Arkansas River within the Conservancy District project area. (2) Please describe the degree and type of opposition to the project (or elements thereof. There is no known organized opposition to the project. The project has been reviewed publicly at meetings with the City Council and the Pueblo County Board of County Commissioners. Several positive newspaper articles have focused on the projects included in the Arkansas River Corridor Legacy Project. These articles have not generated any letters to the editor or public comments in opposition to the proposed projects. To the 20 contrary, over 200 newspaper readers clipped a support statement and sent it to the City. C Project is a Catalyst or has High Demonstration Value The degree to which the-completion of the project will contribute to other similar. The extent to which this project demonstrates unique or important tools, techniques, partnerships, or processes related to GOCO's mission. • The City of Pueblo's ongoing implementation effort for the river restoration project activities involving the U. S. Army Corps of Engineers, in conjunction with a proposed LOCO project is already being modeled by a group in Montrose along the Uncompahgre River corridor. The City of Pueblo is continuing to share information with representatives from Montrose County to assist them with the development of their future project (Phil - Helfrich, contact person in Montrose). • This project demonstrates how natural resources in undeveloped areas can be preserved by bringing nature into the city -thus enhancing urban life while curbing sprawl. S. Leveraginz and Partnership: (Total 25 points) A. Leveraging .of Funds An evaluation of the mix and amount of funding that is being provided by private and public sector organizations. Leveraged funds must be eligible costs Project 1. Arkansas River Habitat Improvements - Fish Passage Structures 2. Greenway & Nature Center - Environmental Education Area - Natural Resource Restoration - Raptor Center Improvements - Nature Trails & Interpretive Signs 3. Trail System Improvements - Replace 6 miles of hard surface trails - St. Charles Mesa Trail connection = Trail signs - Pueblo West Trail 4. Environmental Education Sites - Overton Wildlife Viewing Area - Conduit Trail Area 5. Pueblo Zoo Improvements - Colorado River Otter Exhibit - Trail Connection From River Trail 6, Riverfront Parks & River Access - Riverfront park - River access points - Kayak Course PROJECT COST - Phase 1 GOCO PUBLIC PRI $1.100 $ 3.620 $ $0.210 $0.750 $ $ 0.120 $ 0.165 $ $0.010 $0.020 $ $ 0.060 $ 0.020 $ $ 0.010 $ 0.010 $ $ 0.525 $ 0.440 $ $ 0.100 $ 0.450 $ 0.010 $ 0.020 $ 0.050 $ 0.050 $ 0.040 $ 0.005 $ 0.055 $ 0.230 $ 0.060 $ $ 0.050 $ 0.030 $ $ 0.050 $ 0.215 $ $ 0.060 $ 0.100 $ $ 0.010 $ 0.020 $ $2.600 $ 6.065 $ TOTAL $ 4.965 $ 1.005 $ 0.335 $ 0.060 $ 0.110 $ 0.046 $ 0.974 $ 0.550 $ 0.0s0 $ 0.100 $ 0.040 $ 0.060 $ 0.350 $ 0.100 $ 0.285 $ 0.170 $ 0.050 $ 9.250 • Of the $4.852 million of unsecured funds, $4.08 million is anticipated to come from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The remaining $772,000 will come from the following sources: $400,000 will come from Transportation Enhancement grants; $342,000 will come from individual grant sources such as the Packard Foundation, Enhance -A -Stream program and Fishing Is Fun grants; and $30,000 will come from the City's uncommitted Conservation Trust Fund. • Please refer to the Phase 1 Budget included within the budget section that contains a breakdown of funding sources. The chart above lists the amount of funding that is secured and unsecured. 21 R Partnership The Pueblo Arkansas River Corridor Legacy Project has fifteen committed partners that are providing a combination of cash and in -kind matching funds for specific components of the overall project. Some of the main parts of the project include wildlife habitat improvements and environmental education. Due to the reduced funding in FY2000 for the Division of Wildlife Legacy quadrant funds, no new Legacy projects are receiving funding from the DOW quadrant. The southeastern region office of the Colorado Division of Wildlife has reviewed the project and recommended quadrant. funds be authorized by GOCO. when funding is available. The partners have provided letters of support for the project describing the commitment of their organization or agency. A summary of each agency's commitments is attached within the Project Partners section of the application. G Support for the Project Please see attached letters of support, news articles, summary of petitions divided into general support, as well a_ s project specific support from user groups and organizations. 6 Capability, Stewardship and Sustainability: (Total IS points) A. Ability to Complete the Proiect within the Proiect Period The phases of the project funded by GOCO must be substantially accomplished by 2003. Please discuss and document that all sponsor(s) and partners) with responsibility for project coordination, implementation and/or oversight (as listed in the attachment requested above): (1) Ability to complete similar projects. The City of Pueblo and the other project partners have an excellent track record for the development, support, implementation, and completion of the types of projects included within the Pueblo Arkansas River Corridor Legacy Project. Pueblo is known statewide, as well as nationally, as a city that gets things done. Pueblo has assembled the necessary funding and built a number of large public projects. The Historic Arkansas Riverwalk Project was one of the first projects in Colorado to receive a GOCO Legacy Project grant. The project components funded by GOCO have been completed in timely and efficient manner. (2) Summary of similar projects: City of Pueblo • 2000 Runyon Commuter Trail Project (GOCO fimded) 2000 Big Hill Open Space Acquisition - closing scheduled this summer (GOCO funded) 1999 Historic Arkansas River Project - Lake Elizabeth Urban Park (GOCO funded) • 1999 Historic Arkansas River Project - Family Interactive Area (GOCO funded) • 1998 Tennis Court Renovation Project (GOCO fimded) • 1989 the five mile Fountain Creek Flood Protection Project (U.S. Corps of Engineers funded) • 1975 - 1989 the 25 -mile multi-use river trail system along the Arkansas River and Fountain Creek • 1996 Phase I of the Langoni Sports Complex - 22 acres of youth soccer fields _ • Construction of numerous "Fishing Is Fun" improvements along the Arkansas River and at Runyon Lake including in -stream habitat 22 University of Southern Colorado / Greenway & Nature Center of Pueblo • 1997 1000 square foot addition to the Greenway & Nature Center of Pueblo • Playground, observation deck along Arkansas River, playground, and picnic area at Nature Center • Upgrades to the Nature Center Interpretive building • 1977 — present Native plant material and xeriscape gardens -on the grounds of the Nature Center Colorado State Parks • Construction of numerous large scale improvements at Pueblo Reservoir including picnic areas, 14.5 miles of trails, swim beach facility, boat ramps, marinas, and campground facilities Pueblo County • Construction of parking, access roads, ballfields, locker - rooms, and concession facilities at Runyon Sports Complex Colorado Division of Wildlife • 1999 Lake Pueblo State Wildlife Area roadway improvements totaling $524,580 • Construction of numerous large scale improvements at the Lake Pueblo State Wildlife Area and other wildlife facilities within the southeastern Colorado area Pueblo Zoological Society • 2000 Colorado Shortgrass Prairie Exhibit — opening June 2000 (GOCO funded) • 1999 Animal Care Center • 1998 Pueblo Zoo Native Waterfowl and Wild Bird Area Enhancement (G funded) • 1998 Asian Adventure Monkey Exhibit • 1996 Mandan Group Picnic Shelter • 1995 African Lion naturalist exhibit • 1992 Addition to Education Building • 1992 Ecocenter - tropical rain forest and penguin exhibit • 1985 Construction of the Education Building containing the Mahlon T. White Discovery Room (3) Can complete the proposed transaction in a timely manner. Please discuss and document the organization' and agencies' ability to complete) or oversee the completion o each of the types of activities proposed in the project. The land acquisition for this project includes a maximum of ten acres of open space and a construction easement that will allow for the river restoration work to be completed and not disturbed by the private landowner during the life of the project. All of the property owners have expressed a willingness to either sell their property or in the case of the restoration project convey a construction easement. The City of Pueblo Planning Department and Attorney's Office has experience and expertise in the acquisition of land. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Real Estate Division of coordinate the securing of the construction easement as part of the fisheries restoration project. \ ".. - � lie 24 phase, as well as new projects that enhance the corridor theme of habitat protection, environmental education and compatible recreation. The second phase includes a new riverpark and river_ access, the acquisition and of the "Chain of Lakes" that will be linked to the Greenway & Nature Center, the development of a 100 acre day -use lake area that will be an expansion to the Osprey Picnic Area at Lake Pueblo State Park, the acquisition of a rail -trail linking from City Park to the "Chain of Lakes ", the modification of the last lowhead dam along the river, additional environmental education sites, and another expansion of the Arkansas River trail east of the Fountain Creek Confluence. III. ADMMISTRATIVEPROCEDURES GREAT OUTDOORS COLORADO LEGACYPROJECTS I. Additional Proiect Information (1) Partner contact information — See attached Project Partner List (2) Project Budget, Timeline, and Prioritization requested in Attachment D, Project Budget and Timeline — See attached Project Budget, Timeline, and Prioritization (3) Brief descriptions of project elements and proposed stewardship or operation and maintenance activities as requested on page 9, Weighted Selection Criteria #6 - See response to question 6. B. above 25 (4) SITE MAP — The application includes six maps that identify the location of the project sites for both Phase 1 and Phase 2, as well as a trails map. Site maps are also provided showing the conceptual development plans for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers project along the Arkansas River, as well as at the Greenway & Nature Center, Pueblo Zoo, kayak area along the river. (S) AREA MAP — The maps listed above also show land use /zoning, neighboring communities, property ownership, and significant wildlife areas. (6) Provide any photos available which may be useful.in describing the project See the photos that are on the Phase 1 and Phase 2 map exhibits. (7) What, if any, water rights (surface, subsurface, well and drainage) are necessary to protect and preserve the project's attributes or and the attributes of project elements? What assurances are there that sufficient water will remain in the area to preserve the intended purposes of the project and elements of the project? The consultants for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, who are completing the Ecological Restoration Report and the Environmental Analysis for the Fisheries Restoration project are designing the river restoration to function at a stream flow minimum of 100 CFS. This minimum level occurs infrequently during the Winter Water Storage Program at Pueblo Dam. Based on the letters of cooperation from the Southeastern Colorado Water Conservancy District and the Pueblo Board of Water Works, no additional water rights are needed to preserve the project's attributes. For the current phase of the Legacy Project no additional water rights are needed to protect and preserve the project's attributes. The City of Pueblo is working with the Southeastern Colorado Water Conservancy District and the Pueblo Board of Water Works to develop operating plans to provide a minim of 100 CFS in the Arkansas River during the Winter Water Storage Program in Lake Pueblo. The operating plan will be adopted as part of the overall management for the Fryingpan- Arkansas Project. During the remaining nine months of the year the releases of water from Pueblo Dam provide an abundant supply of water -to preserve the intended purposes of the project. (8) Who holds mineral interests (soil, sang gravel, oil, natural gas, fuel) in the project area? What type of mineral interests are held? Is mineral development likely within 26 the project area? Will mineral development adversely effect the conservation purposes of the property? Please identify mineral interests likely to be developed on the project map- With the exception of the property owned by Valco, Inc. and Transit Mix, all mineral rights to the remainder of the pzoperty_in the project area are owned by one of the following: Federal Government (U.S. Bureau of Reclamation), the State of Colorado (Colorado State Parks), the City of Pueblo, and the Pueblo Conservancy District. Valco, Inc. believes they own all the mineral rights associated with their 2.25 -mile stretch of the Arkansas River. Their ownership includes 1.4 miles along both sides of the river, and .85 miles along the south side of the river. They have leased the mineral rights for gravel mining on their property to Transit Mix, Inc. The gravel mining activities have been completed on the south side of the river and Transit Mix is now in the process of completing the required reclamation of the property to establish a series of lakes with native vegetation. The gravel mining activity on the north side of the river is expected to continue.for a 2 -3 year period. The reclamation plan for the north side of the river is the establishment of a 100 -acre lake that could be used for water storage, wildlife habitat, and recreation uses. It is highly unlikely additional mining activity will occur in the future that would effect the conservation purposes of the river restoration project. (9) Describe the existing land use practices within the project area What is the current zoning? Is a zoning chdnge proposed? What is the current landuse? Please identify on the project site map. The existing land use practices in the project area fall into five categories: public open space and parks, flood plain, and agricultural. These land uses occur in the following areas: Public open space and parks The area including Lake Pueblo State Park, City Parks and the City -owned property between Pueblo Boulevard and Wildhorse Creek, and the Runyon Lake area is all currently zoned as S -1 Public Use — Parks - and Open Space. Flood plain The area from Wildhorse Creek to the confluence with Fountain Creek is used a flood plain and public recreation area. The area is zoned S -2 Flood Plain. Agricultural There is approximately 10 acres of the project area on the north side of the Arkansas River that is used for the grazing of horses. These agricultural properties could be acquired as part of the project as a buffer to the river corridor. The 2.25 miles of stream bank property that is included in the gravel mining operation between Lake Pueblo State Park and Pueblo Blvd. is zoned agricultural. (10)Are existing and expected land use practices in the area surrounding the site compatible with the proposed project? If not, can these practices be modified? Please identify on project site map. In the area below Pueblo Dam to the confluence with Wildhorse Creek the land use practices, with the exception of the gravel operation on the north side of the river are compatible with the Legacy Projects. The gravel operation is expected to be completed within the next 2 -3 years and the area is required to be reclaimed as a lake with natural vegetation. The land use practices following the completion of the gravel operation and reclamation will be compatible with the proposed Legacy projects. 27 The area between Wildhorse Creek and Interstate 25 has a much more urban and industrial pattern to the land use. Residential homes border the south side of the river along the bluff. At the established roadway bridges there are small businesses that serve the Abriendo/Mesa Junction neighborhood. The area north of the river on the backside of the hugh concrete flood levee is the railyard facilities for the railroads that operate in Pueblo. The levee separates this industrial area from the river corridor. While it is unlikely that the land use practices will change in near future, they are not incompatible for the improvements and uses proposed in along this urban developed portion of the project.. See the regional land use map that identifies land. uses and zoning. 2. Administrative Preferences The City of Pueblo will be the project administrator that will be the contact for the grant request and disbursement of grant funds to project partners. The project coordination and oversight responsibility will be assigned to the agency that has primary responsibility and ownership, and the operation and maintenance responsibilities for the improvements. The project coordination and oversight responsibilities will be divided as follows: - Agency Project Coordination/Oversight City of Pueblo Arkansas River Habitat Improvements; Contact: Scott Hobson, Senior Planner river trail upgrades (outside of Lake City of Pueblo Planning & Dev. Department Pueblo State Park), trail signs; trail from 211 E: D Street, Pueblo, CO 81003 Pueblo Zoo to Arkansas River; riverfront 719 543 -6006 fax 719 543 -0572 arks; river accesses; and kayak course University of Southern Colorado Improvements at the_Greenway & Nature Contact: Tim Sandsmark, Director Center Greenway & Nature Center of Pueblo 5200 Nature Center Rd, Pueblo, CO 81003 719) 549 -2458 fax 719) 549 -2547 Pueblo County St. Charles Mesa Trail connection Contact: Greg Sevarnce, Public Works Director 33601 United Avenue, Pueblo, CO 81001 719 583 -6040 fax 719 948 -9641 Colorado State Parks Pueblo West Trail connection; and river Contact: Mike French, Park Manager trail upgrades (within Lake Pueblo State Lake Pueblo State Park Park) 640 Pueblo Reservoir Rd., Pueblo, CO 81005 719 560 -9320, ext. 102 fax 719 560 -9455 Colorado Division of Wildlife Overton Wildlife Viewing Area & Contact: Al Trujillo, Area Wildlife Manager Conduit Trail Area Pueblo District 600 Reservoir Rd., Pueblo, CO.81005 719 561 -4909 fax 719 560 -9622 Pueblo Zoological Society Colorado River Otter Exhibit Contact: Jonenne McFarland, Executive Dir. Pueblo Zoo 3455 Nuckolls Ave., Pueblo, CO 81005 719) 561 -1452 fax 719 561 -8686 RESOLUTION NO. 8962 A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE CITY OF PUEBLO TO SUBMIT A GRANT APPLICATION FOR THE PUEBLO ARKANSAS RIVER CORRIDOR LEGACY PROJECT TO THE STATE BOARD OF THE GREAT OUTDOORS COLORADO TRUST FUND, AND AUTHORIZING THE PRESIDENT OF THE COUNCIL TO EXECUTE SAME WHEREAS, the Arkansas River provides a narrow band of riparian ecosystem that contains habitat for more than 60% of Colorado's wildlife species and has served as a life line to the Pueblo region by providing a vitally important travel corridor and linkage in the early exploration of Colorado and the settlement of the City of Pueblo; and WHEREAS, City Council has continually supported actions that have preserved and enhanced the habitat, natural values, history and compatible recreation opportunities along the Arkansas River in the Pueblo region; and WHEREAS, the City of Pueblo supports the partnerships that have established through the Pueblo Natural Resources and Environmental Education Council who has identified the Pueblo Arkansas River Corridor Legacy Project as their highest priority for the implementation of habitat enhancements, environmental education, and open space protection; and WHEREAS, the City of Pueblo supports the projects proposed within the Pueblo Arkansas River Corridor Legacy Project that are included within the grant application to the State Board of the Great Outdoors Colorado Trust Fund; and BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF PUEBLO, COLORADO, that: SECTION 1 The President of the City Council is hereby authorized to execute and deliver the grant application for the Pueblo Arkansas River Corridor Legacy Project on behalf of the City of Pueblo, a Municipal Corporation, to the State Board of the Great Outdoors Colorado Trust Fund, and the City Clerk shall affix the seal of the City thereto and attest same. SECTION 2 The grant application is requesting $2,600,00 from GOCO over a three -year period between 2000 and 2003, with the City of Pueblo obligating up to $160,000 as cash match from the City's 2000 budget towards the total project costa SECTION 3 A copy of the grant application is on file at the City of Pueblo's Department of Planning and Development. INTRODUCED: March 27, 2000 BY: Al GurulP CO CIL PE ON APPROVED: PRESIDENT OF CITY COUNCIL ATTESTED BY: ITY CLERK PROJECT APPLICATION GREAT OUTDOORS COLORADO LEGACY PROJECTS Stewardship and Operations/Maintenance Tasks Project Responsible Party Stewardship and /or Operation/Maintenance Responsible Pa Arkansas River Habitat Restoration Construction will be Monitor water quality and condition of structures placed City of Pueblo — In -stream habitat restoration along a managed by the U.S. Army within stream every four months. Repair and maintain, as Public Works 9.5 -mile section of the Arkansas Corps of Engineers. The needed, the habitat structures placed within the river. Department River below Pueblo Dam to Fountain City of Pueblo will be the Creek that includes rocks and habitat local project through a Monitor condition of trees and shrubs planted as part of City of Pueblo - structures placed in the river, Project Cooperation project. Maintain and replace plant species, as needed, Parks Department reconfiguration of some sections of Agreement with Corps of along the stream banks. river, revegetation of stream banks Engineers Monitor the fish and aquatic species within the project Colorado Division of area. Modify supplemental fish stocking program based Wildlife — Pueblo on conditions within the different sections of the river. Region Office Arkansas River Diversion Dam Construction will be Monitor the condition of the dam modifications during the City of Pueblo — Modifications managed by the U.S. Army boating season and during the low water period. Repair Public Works Complete modification to the Power Corps of Engineers. The and maintain the diversion dam modifications during the Department Plant and the St. Charles Water City of Pueblo will be the low flow periods of the year. District diversion structures in the local project through a river. These dam modifications will Project Cooperation allow fish to traverse throughout the Agreement with Corps of river and also allow boaters to Engineers navigate the river more safely. Greenway &Nature Center ofPueblo Construction of the University of Southern improvements will be Colorado through the Environmental Education Area/Plaza managed by the University Maintenance tasks: The EE Area/Plaza, trails, and Greenway & Nature Construction of an outdoor education of Southern Colorado interpretive displays will be performed as part of the Center plaza area including native through the Greenway & Nature Center's regular maintenance program including vegetation, seating areas, and Nature Center facilities and grounds staff and volunteer master gardeners exhibits between the Nature Center Building and Cafe del Rio Natural Resource Restoration The prairie restoration will be monitored by Center's Restoration of the natural areas resource staff and volunteers on a weekly basis during the PROJECT APPLICATION GREAT OUTDOORS COLORADO LEGACY PROJECTS surrounding the Nature Center establishment of vegetation and then at beginning and end including the bluffs and shortgrass of growing season for established areas, prairie habitats that are ecologically important. The project includes closing and revegetating social trails, designating trails for specific uses Raptor Center Improvements Raptors Center staff will maintain and repair the outdoor Complete outdoor classroom area, classroom, flight cages, and exhibits on a month -to -month rehabilitate flight cages, upgrade basis. exhibit area, and improve visitor access to facility Interpretation and Nature Trails Develop new interpretation displays at the Nature Center complex, along with constructing a'' /, -mile of new interpretive trails at the complex Trail Upgrades (Outside of Lake Pueblo State Park) 3.5 mile multi -use trail along City of Pueblo —'Public Both agencies will complete the following maintenance City of Pueblo — Parks Arkansas River from I -25 to the City Works Department in tasks: sweeping and vegetation trimming completed on 45 Department Park and 1 mile trail from Wildhorse coordination with the U.S. day basis during warm weather season. Drainage, surface Creek/Arkansas River confluence Army Corps of Engineers. repairs, and sign replacement completed on a annual basis. along Wildhorse Creek to 18'' Street Completion of 1.5 mile multi -use Lake Pueblo State Park Lake Pueblo State trail along the Arkansas River below park Pueblo Dam to the east boundary of Lake Pueblo State Park St. Charles Mesa'Trail Pueblo County — Maintenance tasks: sweeping and vegetation trimming Pueblo County — Completion of 1.5 mile multi -use Department of Public completed on 45 day basis during warm weather season. ' Department of Public trail along the Arkansas River, Works Drainage, surface repairs, and sign replacement completed Works including a 250'trail bridge across on a annual basis. the river PROJECT APPLICATION GREAT OUTDOORS COLORADO LEGACY PROJECTS Project Responsible Party Stewardship and /or O eration/Alaintenance Responsible Pa Pueblo West Trail Lake Pueblo State Park in Maintenance tasks: grading trail surface, vegetation Lake Pueblo State Completion of a 3.5 -mile crusher cooperation with Pueblo trimming completed on 180 day basis. Drainage, surface Park fines trail from the west end of West Metropolitan District repairs, and sign replacement completed on a annual basis. Liberty Point to the fishing pond at Lake Pueblo State Park Overton Wildlife Viewing Area & Colorado Division of Maintenance tasks: grading trail surface, vegetation Colorado Division of Conduit Trail Area Wildlife — Pueblo District trimming completed on 180 day basis. Drainage, surface Wildlife — Pueblo Installation of two comfort stations, office repairs, and sign replacement completed on a annual basis. District office parking lot improvements, watchable wildlife observation site at Overton Viewing Area, a 200 yard trail at the Overton Viewing Area, and %- mile trail at the Conduit Trail Area. Colorado River Otter Exhibit Pueblo Zoological Society Maintenance tasks: The River Otter Exhibit will be come Pueblo Zoological Construction of a river otter exhibit part of the zoos regular maintenacnce program including Society at the Pueblo Zoo including an above keepers and veterinary staff assigned to care for the ground and under water viewing animals, and buildings & grounds staff assigned to routine area, an otter house, and a maintenance and scheduled upgrade and replacement of river /stream bank exhibit area exhibit support systems. Pueblo Zoo River Trail Connection City of Pueblo Parks Maintenance tasks: sweeping and vegetation trimming City of Pueblo Parks Completion of 1 /2- mile multi -use Department completed on 45 day basis during warm weather season. Department trail through City Park to the Drainage, surface repairs, and sign replacement completed Arkansas River Trail System on a annual basis. Arkansas RiverfrontPark City of Pueblo Planning Maintenance tasks: irrigating turf area & trees, mowing City of Pueblo Parks . Construction of a 5 -acre park with Department and trimming, t{ash removal and general park cleanup on Department landscaped turf area, trees, a raft and a weekly basis during the 6 -7 month period. Resurfacing kayak drop -off and pick -up access, a the boater access road every five years. river viewing terraces that include picnic tables and access to the river trail PROJECT APPLICATION GREAT OUTDOORS COLORADO LEGACY PROJECTS Project Responsible Party Stewardship and /or Operation/Maintenance Responsible Pa Arkansas River Accesses City of Pueblo Planning General maintenance and irrigation of the native City of Pueblo Parks Construction of two river access Department vegetation within the access area, trimming of vegetation, Department points from the bluff along the south cleanup every two weeks during a 6 -7 month period. side of the river that provide access Drainage, surface repairs to the trail, and sign replacement from the Abriendo Avenue completed on a annual basis. neighborhood and City Park Kayak Course City of Pueblo Planning Installation of cable standards and cables for hanging the City of Pueblo Parks Department, in partnership kayak course gates. Inspection of the equipment and Department and with the Pueblo Paddlers replace on an annual basis. volunteers from the Pueblo Paddlers BUCIqETS ANd TIME[INE 0 GREAT OUTDOORS COLORADO LEGACY PROJECT t BUDGET PROJECT NAME: Pueblo Arkansas River Corridor Legacy Project Description Date GOCO Cash 6/00 -6/03 Applicant Cash 6/00 (current ear Applicant Cash 6/01 -6/03 Partners Cash 6/00 -6/03 Applicant In -kind 6/00 -6/03 Partners In -kind 6/00 -6/03 TOTAL Nature Center Trail Rehab & Signs Jul -00 $ 10,000 $ 4,000 $ 6,000 $ 20,000 $ 6,000 $ 46,000 St. Charles Mesa Trail April -01 $ 100,000 $ 450,000 $ 550,000 Pueblo West Trail 'Aug-00 $' 50,000 $ 20,000 $ 30,000 $ 100,000 Wildhorse Creek Trail Aug -00 $ 100,000 $ 60,000 $ 160,000 River Otter Exhibit Aug -00 $ 230,000 $ 30,000 $ 90,000 $ 350,000 Nature Center Prairie Restoration Sep-00 $ 10,000 $ 10,000 $ 20,000 $ 40,000 $ 80,000 City Park River Access Oct -00 $ 35,000 $ 20,000 $ 3,000 $ 40,000 $ 98,000 Trail from River to Zoo . Oct -00 $ 50,000 $ 30,000 $ 18,000 $ 2,000 $ 100,000 Overton Overlook Improvements Oct -00 $ 35,000 $ 5,000 $ 40,000 Conduit Trail Area Improvements Nov -00 $ 5,000 $ 50,000 $ 5,000 $ 60,000 Nature Center Environmental Education Area Nov -00 $ 120,000 $ 10,000 $ 10,000 $ 180,000 $ 15,000 $ 335,000 4th St. Riverpark Dec -00 $ 50,000 $ 26,000 $ 34,000 $ 170,000 $ 5,000 $ 285,000 Easements - CORPS Project Feb-01 $ 50,000 $ 20,000 $ 30,000 $ 160,00 Raptor Center Improvements Feb-02 $ 60,000 $ 10,000 $ 30,000 $ 10,000 $ 110,000 Arkansas River CORPS project June -01 $1050,000 $180,000 $ 3,630,000 $ 5,000 $ 4,865,000 Fish Passage Structures -CORPS June -01 $ 210,000 $100,000 $ 690,000 $ 5,00 $ 1,005,000 Nature Trails July -01 $ 10,000 . $10,000 $ 25,000 $ 9,000 $ 54,000 Penn St. River Access Oct -01 $ 25,000 '$ 17,000 $ 30,000 $ 72,000 Trail in Levee Section Feb-02 $ 415,000 $ 44,000 $ 301,000 $ 760,000 Trail Signs Mar -02 $ 10,000 $ 6,000 $ 10,000 $ 4,000 $ . 30,000 Kayak Course April -02 I $ 10,000 $ 20,000 $ 2 0,000 $ 50,000 TOTALS 1 $2,600,000 $ 190,0001 $ 460,000 $ 5,839,000 $ 11,000 $ 150,000 $ 9,250,000 Pueblo Arkansas River Corridor Project Project Budget - Phase 1 Project 1. Arkansas River Habitat Improvements - Fish Passage Structures 2. Greenway & Nature Center - Environmental Education Area - Natural Resource Restoration - Raptor Center Improvements - Nature Trails & Interpretive Signs 3. Trail System Improvements - Replace 6 miles of hard surface trails - St. Charles Mesa Trail connection - Trail signs - Pueblo West Trail 4. Environmental Education Sites - Overton Wildlife Viewing Area - Conduit Trail Area 5. Pueblo Zoo Improvements - Colorado River Otter Exhibit - Trail Connection From River Trail 6. Riverfront Parks & River Access - Riverfront park - River access points - Kayak Course PROJECT COST - Phase 1 Note: $1.00 = $1 million dollars CORPS $ 3.22 $ $ 0.65 $ $ $ 0.005 � ?� $ 0.230 $ 0.050? $ 0.15 $ SE ?&k% 0.050 $ 0.06 $ 0.060 $ 0.010 zz >x •< •" zz4 $ 4.08 $ } 2.600 $0.10 = $100 thousand dollars GOCO 1.100 0.210 0.120 0.010 0.060 0.010 0.525 0.100 0.010 0.050 .0 TE21 ST. PARKS DOW CITY COUNTY CDBG BOWW OTHER TOTAL 0.04 $ 0.020 $ 0.200 $ 0.14 $ 0.245 $ 4.965 j {f.'.••i •: ?.<.::�� ? < $ 0.060 $ 0.04 $ 0.045 $ 1.005 tz r•- : $ 0.020 $ 0.03 $ 0.10 $ 0.065 $ 0.335 { ?w $ 0.010 $ 0.01 $ 0.050 $ 0.080 $ 0.010 $ 0.01 $ 0.030 $ 0.110 $ 0.010 $ 0.026 $ 0.046 xc $ $ 0.015 0.20 $ 0.065 $ 0.07 $ 0.04 $ 0,05 $ 0.009 $ 0.974 $ 0.30 $ 0.15 $ 0.550 <f� $ 0.010 $ 0.01 $ 0.030 su ?} $ 0 .02 $ 0.01 $ 0.020 $ 0.100 0.030 $ 0.01 $ 0.040 ;r • $ 0.045 $ 0.01 $ 0.060 :L�j}? }�tiY $ 0.030 $ 0.03 $ 0.060 $ 0.350 $ 0.030 $ 0.020 $ 0.100 $ 0.005 $ 0 .06 $ 0.020 $ 0.285 zz:C $ 0.010 $ 003 . $ 0.010 $ 0.170 <:#is $ 0.020 $ 0.020 $ 0.050 $ 0.50 $ 0.06 $ 0.110 $ 0.480 $ 0.48 $ 0.17 $ 0.15 $ 0.620 $ 9.250 0.01 $ _ $10 thousand dollars : • : ..::<::<zs< ?>:« > >z >�< ? ?,; : :zt <•. },.,z, breakdown of GOCO < = , •'< ?: >::::: >:r. <r Legacy funding :::<:.rf: quadrant Pueblo Arkansas River Corridor Project Pilot Project Budget - Phase 2 Project 1. Chain -of -Lakes - Land Acquisition (5 lakes, plant. site) - Water rights (4 southside lakes) - Habitat Improvements - State Park Day Use Area - Goodnight Information & Historic Site 2. Greenway & Nature Center - Nature Trails & Interpretive Signs - Pedestrian Bridge Across River 3. Environmental Education Sites - Parking, shade shelters, restrooms - Interpretive signs - Environmental Education curriculum - Acquire Olive Marsh habitat parcels 4. Trail System Improvements - Acquire DREW rail trail property - Construct DRGW rail trail - 4 miles of Natural surface trails - St. Charles Mesa Trail connection 5. Boat Drop Structures and Improvements - Water Works lowhead dam - Put -ins & take -outs 6. Riverfront Parks & Neighborhood Access - Riverfront park & accesses PROJECT COST - Phase 2 CARPS GC $ $ $ $ $ $ Note: $1.00 = $1 million dollars $0.10 = $100 thousand . dollars TE21 ST. PARKS DOW CITY COUNTY CDBG OTHER TOTAL $0.12 $0.12 $0.07 $0.07 $ 1.13 $ 0.03 $ 0.03 $ 0.02 $ 0.02 $ 0.30 $ 0.03 $ 0.03 $ 0.02 $ 0.02 $ 0.38 $ 0.24 $ 0.66 $ 0.25 $ 0.02 $ 0.0? $ 0.55 $0.01 $0.01 $ 0.04 $ 0.04 $ 0.04 $ 0.04. $ 0.36 $0.16 $0.01 $0.01 $0.02 $ 0.60 $0.01 $0.01 $0.01 $ 0.10 $0.01 $0.01 $ 0.03 $ 0.04 $ 0.02 $ 0.02 $ 0.28 $ 0.10 $ 0.05 $ D.05 $ 0,40 $0.05 $0.01 $0.01 $ 0.12 $0.01 $0.01 $ 0.06 $0.12 $0.12 $ 0.36 $ 0.04 $ 0.04 $ 0.02 $ 0.45 $ 0.01 $ 0.03 $ 0.10 $ 0.80 6 $ 0.52 $ 0.44 $ 0.36 $ 0.44 $ 0.44 $ 0.12 $ 6.75 $0.01 = $10 thousand dollars breakdown of GOCO Legacy quadrant funding Pueblo Arkansas River Legacy Project - Vision for the Arkansas River Pueblo Arkansas River Corridor Legacy Project Funding Partners - Phase 1 Great Outdoors_ Colorado 28% Community Development Block Grants 2% Board of Water Works 2% Colorado Division of Wildlife 1% Pueblo County 5% Transportation Enhancements 5% n+hrnr n^encies J do State Park,c 1% City of Pueblo 5% .S. Army Corps Engineers 44% Pueblo Arkansas River Corridor Legacy Project Project Costs - Phase 1 Pueblo Zoo Improvement 5% Trail System Improvements 18% Environmental Education Sites 1% Greenway &Nature � Center 6% Riverfront Parks & River Access 5% Fish Passage Structi 11% Arkansas River Habitat Improvements 54% . ; PROJECT PARTNERS wb R Y3 PROJECT PARTNERS (1) Mr. John Momp, Chairman (6) Susan Morgan, Interim Manager (11) Mark Yeager, President Board of County Commissioners Pueblo West Metropolitan District Arkansas Valley Audubon Society Pueblo County Courthouse P.O. Box 7005 P.O. Box 11187 10' & Main Streets Pueblo West, CO 81007 Pueblo, CO 81001 Pueblo, CO 81003 Phone: (719) 547 -2000 Phone: (719) Phone: (719) 583 -6000 Fax: (719) 547-2833. Fax: (719) Fax: (719) 583 -6549 (7) Jonenne McFarland, Executive Director (12) Jack Seilheimer, Dean of the College of (2) Colonel Thomas Fallin Pueblo 7,00logical Society Science and Mnthemntics U.S. Army Corps of Engineers 3455 Nuckolls Avenue University of Southern Colorado Albuquerque District Pueblo, CO 81005 • 2200 Bonforte Blvd. 4101 Jefferson Plaza Northeast Phone: (719) 561 -1452 Pueblo, CO 81001 Albuquerque, NM 87109 Fax: (719) 561 -8686 Phone: (719) 549 -2340 Phone: (505) 342 -3354 Fax: (719) 549 -2732 Fax: (SOS) 342 -3494 (8) Alan Hamel, Executive Director Pueblo Board of Water Works (13) Dave Anderson, Chairman (3) Dave Gigcr, South Region Manager P.O. Box 400 Frichds of the River-Trails Colorado State Parks Pueblo, CO 81002 101 S. WCullogh 2128 N. Weber Street Phone: (719) 584 -0221 Pueblo West, CO 81007 Colorado Springs, CO 80907 Fax: (719) 584 -0222 Phone: (719) 547 -1717 Phone: (719) 471 -0900 Fax: (719) 547 -0100 Fax: (719) 4734201 (9) Gus Sandstrom, Chairman Pueblo Conservancy District (14) Bob Walker, Chairman (4) Tim Sandsmark, Director 111 E. 5 1 " Street Pueblo Paddlers Greenway & Nature Center of Pueblo Pueblo, CO 81003 107 N. Union Avenue 5200 Nature Center Road Phone: (719) 544 -6823 Pueblo, CO, 81003 Pueblo, CO.81005 Fax: (719) 544 -6825 Phone: (719) 583 -2021 Phone: (719) 549 -2458 Fax: (719) 583 -2023 Fax: (719) 549 -2547 (10) John Zupancic, President Southern Greenback Chapter .(15) Dr. David Cockrell, Community (5) Mark Konlshi, SE Regional Manager Trout Unlimited , Development Specialist Colorado Division of Wildlife 1140 Camino Pablo Late Colorado State University 2126 N. Weber Street Pueblo West, CO 81007 Community Technical Assistance Colorado Springs, CO 80907 Phone: (719) 547 -2089 Program Phone: (719) 227 -5208 Fax: (719) 545 -7997 Union Depot Fax: (719) 227 -5297 132 W. B Street, Suite 260 Pueblo, CO 81003 PROJECT PARTNER COMMITMENTS Mr. John Klomp, Chairman _ Board of County Commissioners Pueblo County has committed $80,000 during the first year of the project to assist in funding the Pueblo West Trail *connection, improvements at the Greenway and Nature Center, and the Pueblo Zoo River Otter Exhibit. In addition the County will be the land manager and project coordinator for the St. Charles Mesa Trail connection project. The County is also looking to provide $200,000 in both 2041 and 2002 in matching funds for the Legacy Project, subject to availability of funds for appropriation. The public works department in conjunction with volunteer trail groups will maintain the St. Charles Mesa Trail. Colonel Thomas Fallin U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Albuquerque District The Albuquerque District has expended $10,000 during 1999 for the completed the Preliminary Restoration Plan for the Arkansas River Fisheries Habitat Restoration Project. Following the completion of the Restoration Plan, funding was approved to complete the Feasibility Study and Ecosystem Restoration Report (ERR) in the amount of $472,000. The Corps is four months into the Feasibility Study/ERR with a completion date of December, 2000. Subject to recommendations made in the ERR and acceptance byshe Corps, the approval of the ERR could occur by February, 2001. Final design and implementation could occur by June, 2001. The Preliminary Restoration Report estimates a cost of $4,960,000 to complete the project. The Corps would provide $3,224,000 and local non-federal cost share is estimated to be $1,737,000 which would need to be provide by the project sponsor and partners. These costs are subject to changes in the ongoing. Feasibility Study. Mike French, Park Manager Colorado State Parks Colorado State Parks will consider providing $300,000 in quadrant funds over the 3 -year funding period. The funds are being requested for the Fisheries Habitat Project ($50,000) and four trail projects ($250,000). They will also provide $40,000 in cash match for the Fisheries Habitat Project, and $20,000 of in -kind for the Pueblo West Trail. State Parks will manage and maintain the Pueblo West Trail.. They will commit to provide the property within Lake Pueblo State Park for the Arkansas River Fisheries Habitat Improvements subject to final review of the Feasibility Study/ERR. A letter of support documenting State Park's participation will be forwarded to GOCO. Tim Sandsmark, Director Greenway & Nature Center of Pueblo Commitment to provide $100,000 in matching funds generated from a fund raising campaign and other foundation grants. Commit to provide a minimum of 7,500 hours of volunteer in- kind work valued at $71,000 to close and revegetate trails, revegetation of prairie habitat areas, and construction of natural surfaced trails. The Greenway and Nature Center has committed to manage and maintain the improvements at the Nature Center Complex and the habitat improvements to the prairie and riparian areas. Al Trujillo, District Wildlife Manager Colorado Division of Wildlife The Southeast Region is providing $20,000 in cash funding for the river habitat restoration, a $15,000 Fishing Is Fun application for access trails is currently being recommended for funding within the region, and $75,000 of in -kind is being provided for the Overton Wildlife Viewing Area and the Conduit Trail Area. - Susan Morgan, Interim Manager Pueblo West Metropolitan District The Board of Directors of the Pueblo West Metropolitan District (PWMD) has committed to provide $20,000 in cash and/or in -kind for the construction of the Pueblo West Trail connection that links to the River Trail System. As part this project PWMD has committed to provide a trail easement across approximately 5,800 linear feet of property owned by the District. Jonenne McFarland, Executive Director Pueblo Zoological Society The Pueblo Zoological Society has commitment to provide $80,000 in matching funds generated from a fund raising campaign and other foundation grants. Following the completion of the River Otter Exhibit, the Zoological Society commits to manage and maintain the improvement. Alan Hamel, Executive Director Pueblo Board of Water Works The Board of Water Works of Pueblo has committed to pay the cost to replace facilities at the Nature Center and along the River Trail System that are disturbed in connection with the installation of a raw water pipeline. The replacement cost of these existing improvements will be provided as a direct in -kind cash match to the Arkansas River Legacy Project. The Board will be working with the City to determine the replacement costs of these improvements through the design process over the next several months. Gus Sandstrom, Chairman Pueblo Conservancy District The Pueblo Conservancy District is the lead agency, along with the City of Pueblo, sponsoring the request for the Arkansas River Fishery Habitat Restoration Project. The District owns 50% of the river corridor (approximately 300 acres) where the habitat improvements will be completed. The District will provide the land for the river park improvements, the Penn Street river access, the replacement of the river trails, and natural surfaced trails at Runyon Lake and Wildhorse Creek. The District currently has an agreement with the City of Pueblo establishing the responsibilities for the management and maintenance of these improvements by the City of Pueblo or its agents. John Zupancic, President Southern Greenback Chapter The Southern Greenback Chapter has commitment-800 hours of volunteer time to the river restoration project valued at $8,000 to assist in rock/boulder placement and the planting of stream bank vegetation. A cash commitment of $10,000 has been requested from the National Office of Trout Unlimited by the Southern Greenback Chapter for the river restoration project. Requests will also be made for additional $10,000 contributions in 2001 and 2002 from the National Office of Trout Unlimited. Cliff Smith, President Arkansas Valley Audubon Society The Arkansas Valley Audubon Society has commitment to provide 100 hours of volunteer labor to plant the materials to establish habitat for nesting birds along the river corridor. Jack Seilheimer, Dean of the College of Science and Mathematics University of Southern Colorado The University of Southern Colorado has committed to continue to provide assistance and human resources to contribute to the completion of the project. In addition the University has offered to provide support from University professors, graduate students, and undergraduates to support the implementation and follow up monitoring required for the project. Dave Anderson, Chairman Friends of the River Trails The Friends of the River Trail has committed to provide 900 hours of volunteer labor valued at $9,000 to construct 4 miles of natural surface trails located between Runyon Lake and the Arkansas River, at shoreline access points to Fountain Lake, and between Wildhorse Creek and City Park. John Zupancic Pueblo Paddlers The Pueblo Paddlers have committed to secure a minimum of $5,000 in river rock to be used to create a white water course, in conjunction with the river habitat improvements along the Arkansas River. In addition they have committed to provide the equipment for a boating course along the river and 400 hours of volunteer labor, valued at $10,000 to install kayak gates and chute apparatus. These contributions are subject to the satisfactory design of the fisheries habitat improvements to provide for safe passage of the low water dams and a white water course along a 3,000' section of the river. Dr. David Cockrell, Community Development Specialist Colorado State University - Community Technical Assistance Program The Community Technical Assistance Program has committed to engage the services of university based faculty and students to design and prepare specifications for the development of the Pearl Street Riverpark, Penn Street river access, and the City Park river access. The rate for these services is less than half of the cost that would be incurred, if commercial contractors completed the project. In addition, $2,000 in cash match is being provided by the Technical Assistance Program towards the cost of the completion of the park and access work. CONSiSTENCY WiTh. LoCAIANd..- . y REI PLANS • G ZONA_ ? :A Nor 1NCL u I) cc) LETTERS OF SUPPORT ANd PETITIONS ni OT L u u�. NEUUSpApER ARTICIES" N c�T IUCLvoEo Exhibit B Project Resolution [See Attached] 17 10/6/98 Version Exhibit C Work Plan [See Attached] 18 10/6/98 Version Revised March 21, 2002 GREAT OUTDOORS COLORADO LEGACY PROJECT BUDGET PROJECT NAME: Pueblo Arkansas River Corridor Legacy Project Description Date GOCO Cash 6/02 GOCO Cash 6/03 GOCO Cash 6/04 Applicant Cash 6/02 (current year) Applicant Cash 6/03 -6/04 Partners Cash 6/02 -6/04 Applicant In -kind 6/02 -6/04 Partners In -kind 6/02 -6/04 TOTAL Nature Center Environmental Education Area June -02 $ 120,000 $ 35,000 $ 195,000 $ 350,000 Wildhorse Creek Trail Aug -02 $ 63,000 $ 63,000 Arkansas River CORPS project Nov -02 $ 655,000 $ 655,000 $ 200,000 $ 4,594,000 $100,000 $ 387,000 $ 6,591,000 River Otter Exhibit Jan-03 $ 175,000 $ 45,000 $ 130,000 $ 350,000 Raptor Center Improvements Feb -03 $ 40,000 $ 10,000 $ 50,000 $ 10,000 $ 110,000 Nature Center Trail Rehab & Signs Jul -03 $ 10,000 $ 10,000 $ 20,000 $ 6,000 $ 46,000 Levee Trail/Nature Trails Aug -03 $ 75,000 $ 100,000 $ 65,000 $ 362,000 $ 59,000 $ 661,000 Overton Overlook & Conduit Trail Area Improvements Oct -03 $ 5,000 $ 70,000 $ 25,000 $ 100,000 Kayak Course April -04 $ 20,000 $ 25,000 $ 45,000 4th St. Riverpark May -04 $ 45,000 $ 5,000 $ 90,000 $ 140,000 Penn St. River Access May -04 $ 45,000 $ 10,000 $ 55,000 $ 110,000 Trail Signs Mar -04 $ 10,000 $ 10,000 $ 10,000 $ 30,000 Pueblo West Trail Aug -04 $ 35,000 $ 35,000 $ 30,000 $ 100,000 Nature Center Prairie Restoration Sep -04 $ 10,000 $ 10,000 $ 20,000 $ 40,000 $ 80,000 St. Charles Mesa Trail N/A City Park River Access N/A Trail from River to Zoo N/A TOTALS 1 $ 120,000 $ 960,000 $920,0001 $ 35,0001 $ 365,0001 $ 5,694,0001 $ 100,000 _ $582,0001 $ 8,776,000 Arkansas River Corridor Legacy Project Project Partner Expenses All but $400,000 is expected to be reimbursed by our partners based on the following schedule: Proiected Reimbursable Costs - note: this list does not include U.S. Army Corps of Engineers funds that will not be fronted project expenses by the City. PROJECT PARTNERS AMOUNT GOCO Legacy Funds (anticipated to be reimbursed with $2,000,000 $1,000,000 FY2003 && $1,000,000 FY2004 River Habitat Land Credits credited in FY2002 $ 487,000 Colorado State Parks ($40,000 expected in FY2003 for $ 60,000 River Habitat & $20,000 in FY2004 for Pueblo West trail) (if $20 ,000 is not provided by the State Parks, the trail projects will' not be completed Pueblo County (river habitat contribution payments $ 400,000 anticipated to be $100K FY2003 & $100K FY2004, GNC (if $105,000 is not provided by the Improvements $45 000 River Trails /Si ns $80 000, P > > g � county the City will riot complete Raptor Center, signs, and habitat Pueblo West Trail $25,000, Environmental Ed. Sites restoration projects; Pueblo West $20,000, Pueblo Zoo River Otter Exhibit $30,000 ) trail & River Otter )exhibit) Trout Unlimited (expected in FY2002 $ 10,000 CDOT - TE21 grant funds (applications to be submitted $ 300,000 in FY2002 & FY2003) (if not secured, the City will reduce the number of miles of trail re laced within project CDBG funds - funding requests to be submitted in $ 170,000 FY2003 & FY2004 - $28,000 secured in FY2002) Pueblo Board of Water Works (GNC Plaza $130,000 & $ 180,000 $50,000 in -kind trails work in FY2002 Greenway & Nature Center (Plaza $50,000 secured in $ 166,000 FY2002, $66,000 of cash and in -kind secured in FY2003 (if $116 ,000 is not provided by the Raptor Center & interpretive signs, $50 000 of cash for Ra P P g GNC the City will not complete Raptor Center, signs, and habitat and in -kind secured in FY2004 for habitat restoration ) restoration projects) Colorado Division of Wildlife (Environmental Ed. Sites $ 110,000 $75,000 at Lake Pueblo State Wildlife Area cash and in- (if $75 ,000 is not provided by the kind in FY2003 $20 000 for River Habitat in FY2002 > > > Dow the E.E. sites projects will not be completed) $15,000 river trails in FY2002 Pueblo Zoological Society ($100,000 for River Otter $ 100,000 Exhibit in FY2002) (if $100,000 is not provided by the Zoo, the City will not complete River Otter Exhibit project Pueblo West Metro. District (Pueblo West trail cash and $ 20,000 in -kind in FY2004) (if $20 ,000 is not provided by the Pueblo West, the trail projects will not be completed) Friends of the River Trail trails in -kind in FY 2002 $ 9,000 Other Grants and Contributions for riverpark, access, $ 80,000 and kayaking requested in FY2002 & FY2003 Total Reimbursable Costs $4,092,000 Pueblo Arkansas River Corridor Project Project Budget - Phase 1 Project 1. Arkansas River Habitat Improvements 2. Greenway & Nature Center Environmental Education Area Natural Resource Restoration - Raptor Center Improvements Nature Trails & Interpretive Signs 3. Trail System Improvements - Replace 6 miles of hard surface trails - St. Charles Mesa Trail connection - Trail signs - Pueblo West Trail 4. Environmental Education Sites - Overton Wildlife Viewing Area - Conduit Trail Area 5. Pueblo Zoo Improvements - Colorado River Otter Exhibit - Trail Connection From River Trail 6. Riverfront Parks & River Access - Riverfront park - River access points - Kayak Course PROJECT COST - Phase 1 Note: $1.00 = $1 million dollars CORPS 4.284 $ GOCO TE21 ST. PARKS DOW 1.310 $ 0.04 $ 0.020 0.120 0.010 0.040 0.010 0.175 $ 0.30 0.010 0.035 $ 0.02 0.005 0.175 $ 0.015 $ 0.030 $ 0.045 $ 0.045 $ 0.045 $ 0.020 4.284 $ 2.000 $ 0.30 $ 0.06 $0.110 $0.10 = $100 thousand dollars CITY COUNTY CDBG BOWW OTHER TOTAL 0.200 $ 0.200 $ 0.04 $ 0.497 $ 6.591 0.035 $ 0.015 $ 0.13 $ 0.050 $ 0.350 0.010 $ 0.010 $ 0.050 $ 0.080 0.010 $ 0.010 $ 0.050 $ 0.110 0.010 $ 0.010 $ 0.016 $ 0.046 0.065 $ 0.070 $ 0.04 $ 0.05 $ 0.009 $ 0.724 0.010 $ 0.010 $ 0.030 $ 0.025 $ 0.020 $ 0.100 $ 0.010 $ 0.040 $ 0.010 $ 0.060 0.045 $ 0.030 $ 0.100 $ 0.350 0.005 $ 0.06 $ 0.030 $ 0.140 0.010 $ 0.03 $ 0.025 $ 0.110 $ 0.025 $ 0.045 0.400 $ 0.400 $ 0.17 $ 0.18 $ 0.872 $ 8.776