canopy Ithaca The Commons by Hilton

Transcription

1 Traffic Impact Study f or t h e p r o p o s e d canopy Ithaca The Commons by Hilton C i t y o f I t h a c a T o m p k i n s C o u n t y, N ew Y ork January 215 Project No. 347 Prepared For: E l m i r a R o a d I t h a c a, N e w Y o r k A t t n : M r. N e i l P a t e l Prepared By: W i n t o n P l a c e B u i l d i n g E, S u i t e 1 1 R o c h e s t e r, N e w Y o r k

2 Traffic Impact Study Proposed canopy Ithaca The Commons by Hilton City of Ithaca, New York TABLE OF CONTENTS LIST OF TABLES... ii LIST OF FIGURES... ii LIST OF APPENDICES... ii LIST OF REFERENCES... iii EXECUTIVE SUMMARY... iv I. INTRODUCTION... 1 II. LOCATION... 1 III. EXISTING HIGHWAY SYSTEM... 1 IV. EXISTING TRAFFIC CONDITIONS... 2 A. Peak Intervals for Analysis...2 B. Existing Traffic Volume Data...2 C. Field Observations...3 V. FUTURE AREA DEVELOPMENT AND LOCAL GROWTH... 3 VI. PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT... 3 A. Description...3 B. Site Traffic and Parking Generation...4 C. Site Traffic Distribution...7 VII. FULL DEVELOPMENT VOLUMES... 7 VIII. CAPACITY ALYSIS... 8 IX. PROPOSED ON-STREET LOADING AREA...11 X. PROPOSED TRUCK DELIVERIES...11 XI. MULTI-MODAL CONSIDERATIONS...11 XII. CONCLUSIONS & RECOMMENDATIONS...12 XIII. FIGURES...13 i January 215

3 Traffic Impact Study Proposed canopy Ithaca The Commons by Hilton City of Ithaca, New York LIST OF TABLES TABLE 1 PROJECTED DRIVEWAY VOLUMES...4 TABLE I1 TOTAL HOTEL VEHICLE VOLUME...6 TABLE III CAPACITY ALYSIS RESULTS...9 LIST OF FIGURES FIGURE 1 FIGURE 2 FIGURE 3 FIGURE 4 FIGURE 5 FIGURE 6 FIGURE 7 FIGURE 8 FIGURE 9 SITE LOCATION & STUDY AREA LANE GEOMETRY & AVERAGE DAILY TRAFFIC PEAK HOUR VOLUMES 214 ADJUSTED AND BALANCED EXISTING CONDITIONS PEAK HOUR VOLUMES 216 BACKGROUND CONDITIONS PROPOSED SITE PLAN PROPOSED VALET ROUTES TRIP DISTRIBUTION SITE GENERATED TRIPS PEAK HOUR VOLUMES FULL DEVELOPMENT CONDITIONS LIST OF APPENDICES A1. COLLECTED TRAFFIC VOLUME DATA A2. MISCELLANEOUS TRAFFIC DATA AND CALCULATIONS A3. LOS CRITERIA/DEFINITIONS A4. LEVEL OF SERVICE CALCULATIONS EXISTING CONDITIONS A5. LEVEL OF SERVICE CALCULATIONS BACKGROUND CONDITIONS A6. LEVEL OF SERVICE CALCULATIONS FULL DEVELOPMENT CONDITIONS A7. LEVEL OF SERVICE CALCULATIONS FULL DEVELOPMENT CONDITIONS WITH MITIGATION ii January 215

4 Traffic Impact Study Proposed canopy Ithaca The Commons by Hilton City of Ithaca, New York LIST OF REFERENCES 1. HCM 21 Highway Capacity Manual. Transportation Research Board. The National Academies, Washington, DC: Special Report 29: Highway Capacity Manual. Transportation Research Board. National Research Council, Washington, DC Trip Generation, Ninth Edition. Institute of Transportation Engineers. Washington D.C Parking Generation, Third Edition. Institute of Transportation Engineers. Washington, DC: Shared Parking, Second Edition. Urban Land Institute. Washington, DC: New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) Traffic Data Viewer Retrieved from iii January 215

5 Traffic Impact Study Proposed canopy Ithaca The Commons by Hilton City of Ithaca, New York EXECUTIVE SUMMARY OVERVIEW The primary purpose of this report is to identify and evaluate the potential traffic impacts associated with the proposed canopy Ithaca The Commons by Hilton in the City of Ithaca, Tompkins County, New York. Additionally, pedestrian, bicycle and transit conditions, considerations and improvements are identified. The study's primary objective is to evaluate the future impact the proposed development has on the adjacent intersections and roadways, and to determine what improvements (if any) to the existing road network are needed to mitigate the future traffic conditions following full development of the site as proposed. The canopy Hotel brand is an emerging boutique hotel experience developed by Hilton Hotels. This new and unique type of hotel experience is marketed towards the millennial generation (those born between 198 and the mid-2s), however, is relevant for the older generation of hotel guests. Each canopy Hotel is designed to incorporate the essence of its local surroundings and neighborhood feel; such as offering a local welcome gift and evening tastings of local food, beers, wines, and spirits to providing local fitness and recreation options in terms of jogging and bicycle routes (bicycles will be available for rent). The proposed canopy Ithaca by Hilton provides approximately 123 guestrooms, a restaurant (2, SF), a small board room and meeting room (1, SF), a fitness room, and a café/bar area. The proposed plan includes a porte-cochère for guest drop-off and pick-up, valet service for guests, and a guest parking zone along Seneca Way. The proposed development site is located on the north side of M.L.K. Jr. Street, east of North Aurora Street. The development site is bounded by Seneca Way to the northeast and M.L.K. Jr. Street to the south. The site is currently a surface parking lot. This report considers and evaluates the following transportation and operational conditions: Existing traffic conditions during the weekday AM and PM peak hour intervals. Future background traffic conditions during the same peak intervals two years into the future considering general area growth patterns and nearby developments. Parking generation by hotel guests, visitors, and employees. New traffic generated by the proposed hotel. Distribution of site generated traffic. Development of future traffic conditions during the previously noted peak intervals, assuming the site fully built and operational. On-street parking conditions and on-site truck deliveries. Mutli-modal considerations. iv January 215

6 Traffic Impact Study Proposed canopy Ithaca The Commons by Hilton City of Ithaca, New York The report that follows details the study procedures, analyses, and transportation related recommendations associated with development of the proposed hotel. CONCLUSIONS & RECOMMENDATIONS Based on the projected site generated traffic volumes and projected levels of service, the proposed canopy Ithaca by Hilton in the City of Ithaca will not have a significant adverse impact on existing traffic operations in the area, as documented in this report. The analyses contained in this report indicate that the existing transportation network can adequately accommodate the projected traffic volumes and resulting impacts to study area intersections with the recommendations outlined. The following conclusions and recommendations are based upon the results of the analyses: 1. The proposed development is expected to generate approximately 34 entering/24 exiting vehicles during the AM peak hour and 39 entering/36 exiting vehicles during the PM peak hour. 2. Minor signal timing changes are needed at two study intersections: Aurora Street/M.L.K.Jr. Street East Seneca Street/North Cayuga Street 3. With the recommended signal timing mitigation in place, the proposed project will not result in any potentially significant adverse traffic impacts to the study area intersections. 4. Pedestrian walkways and connections to existing sidewalks are included. 5. Bicycles for rent and bike racks are provided on site. 6. The total demand for daily parking spaces required by hotel guests, visitors, employees, and the restaurant is expected to range from spaces. The project developer indicates that approximately 6-7 parking spaces will be secured in the East Seneca Street Parking Garage on the top deck. Dedicated overflow parking is provided, when necessary. Valet parking is offered for hotel patrons enabling increased parking garage utilization. There are 11 parking spaces provided on-site. Three of the 11 spaces are signed for 15-minute parking. There is one ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessible parking space. In addition, opportunities for individuals to park off-site exist on-street and at other nearby parking garages. 7. There are sufficient parking spaces available in the East Seneca Street Garage, as well as nearby parking garages, to accommodate the average daily hotel parking needs, as documented in a previous parking study by City Parking staff. In-door and out-door signage is recommended to direct hotel guests to the East Seneca Street Garage. v January 215

7 Traffic Impact Study Proposed canopy Ithaca The Commons by Hilton City of Ithaca, New York 8. An eight foot wide, 4 foot long curb lane for guest parking is proposed along Seneca Way. This existing curbside area can accommodate approximately two vehicles at a time and can be used for temporary loading/deliveries and guest check-in. 9. Truck deliveries are planned on-site during off-peak hours. vi January 215

8 Traffic Impact Study Proposed canopy Ithaca The Commons by Hilton City of Ithaca, New York I. INTRODUCTION The primary purpose of this report is to identify and evaluate the potential traffic impacts associated with the proposed canopy Ithaca The Commons by Hilton in the City of Ithaca, Tompkins County, New York. In addition, pedestrian, bicycle and transit conditions, considerations and improvements are identified In an effort to define traffic impact, this report identifies existing traffic conditions, future background traffic conditions including area growth, and determines the future traffic operations that result from the proposed development. Future traffic volumes and operating conditions are evaluated. Parking generation and demand associated with the proposed hotel is evaluated. In addition, an assessment of the on-street loading conditions with the proposed hotel in operation is provided. II. LOCATION The proposed development site is located on the north side of M.L.K. Jr. Street, east of North Aurora Street, in the City of Ithaca, Tompkins County, New York. The specified parcel of land is bounded by Seneca Way to the north and east, and M.L.K. Jr. Street to the south. The site is currently a surface parking lot. The site location and study area are illustrated in Figure 1 - Site Location & Study Area (all figures are included at the end of this report). III. EXISTING HIGHWAY SYSTEM The highway network within the study area is comprised of State arterials, City collectors and local streets. Operation of the highway network within the study area is based largely upon two one-way pair systems. East/West Green Street and East/West Seneca Street (also known as NYS Route 79) complement each other to create the east-west one-way pair system. East/West Green Street is one-way eastbound between Fulton Street and East State Street; East/West Seneca Street is one-way westbound between East State and North Meadow Street. NYS Route 79 (Green and Seneca Streets), the major east-west corridor through the City, is functionally classified as an urban minor arterial highway. In addition to carrying traffic through the City, theses arterials serve properties and businesses through the Central Business District (CBD) and border the Ithaca Commons on the north and south. The other one-way pair is comprised of North/South Aurora Street northbound between Court and State Streets and North/South Cayuga Street southbound between Seneca Street and Green Street. Cayuga Street is a two-way roadway between Seneca Street and Court Street. Both roadways are under the jurisdiction of the City of Ithaca. Annual Average Daily Traffic (AADT) on North Aurora Street was approximately 5,764 vehicles per day (vpd) in 211, according to the most recent data collected by the New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT). The AADT along Cayuga Street 1 January 215

9 Traffic Impact Study Proposed canopy Ithaca The Commons by Hilton City of Ithaca, New York was approximately 8,492 vpd in 29 according to the most recent data collected by the NYSDOT. State Street between North/South Aurora Street and Seneca Way West is a two-lane roadway with motorists travelling in an east/west direction. The AADT on State Street was approximately 7,72 vpd in 21, according to the most recent data collected by the NYSDOT. On-street metered parking exists on both sides of the roadway between North/South Aurora Street and Seneca Way. Tioga Street is functionally classified as an urban collector roadway, under the jurisdiction of the City of Ithaca in the study area. The highway is oriented in an north/south direction and consists of two travel lanes in each direction. The AADT on Tioga Street was approximately 1,859 vpd in 211, according to the most recent data collected by the NYSDOT. IV. EXISTING TRAFFIC CONDITIONS A. Peak Intervals for Analysis Given the functional characteristics of the roadways within the study area and the land use proposed for the site (boutique hotel), the peak hours selected for analysis are the weekday AM and PM peaks. The combination of site generated traffic and adjacent through traffic produces the greatest demand during these peak periods. B. Existing Traffic Volume Data Vehicular and pedestrian traffic counts were obtained on Wednesday, October 1, 214 (all study area intersections, except for Tioga Street) and recorded Thursday, December 4, 214 at the Tioga Street/East Seneca Street intersection. Study intersections are as follows: 1. State Street (M.L.K. Jr. Street)/Seneca Way West 2. State Street/Green Street 3. State Street/S. Aurora Street 4. East Seneca Street/North Aurora Street 5. East Seneca Street/Tioga Street 6. Seneca Street/North Cayuga Street 7. Green Street/South Cayuga Street Traffic counts were conducted between 7:-9: AM for the weekday morning peak hour and between 4:-6: PM for the weekday evening peak hour. The collective data indicates that during these periods, the peak hours of traffic at the study intersections are generally 8:-9: AM and 4:3-5:3 PM. All count data was collected on typical weekdays while local colleges, universities, and public schools were in session. All traffic volumes were 2 January 215

10 Traffic Impact Study Proposed canopy Ithaca The Commons by Hilton City of Ithaca, New York reviewed to confirm accuracy and relative balance of the collective traffic counts. During the October traffic counts, a detour route was in place due to roadway work being performed along Clinton Street impacting the traffic volumes interacting with the study area intersections. In order to adjust for the effects of the detour, historical (26 to 211) traffic volumes at the study area intersections were reviewed to determine the likely changes resulting from the detour. Based upon our firms extensive traffic count database for downtown Ithaca intersections, and the Tioga Street/East Seneca Street turning movement count with no detour route in place, the 214 existing traffic volumes were derived. The final and adjusted existing weekday AM and PM peak hour volumes are reflected in Figure 3. C. Field Observations The study intersections were observed during all three peak intervals to assess current traffic operations. Signal timing information was collected to determine peak hour phasing plans and phase durations during each interval. V. FUTURE AREA DEVELOPMENT AND LOCAL GROWTH The proposed canopy Ithaca by Hilton will be constructed and operational by November 216. The City of Ithaca was contacted to discuss any other specific developments that are currently approved or under construction that would generate additional traffic in the study area. Based upon the projects noted in the City s 214 projects map available on the City s website and historical traffic volumes in the CBD area, a 1% per year growth rate has been applied to existing traffic volumes at the study area intersections for the two-year build-out period. Future background traffic volumes are shown in Figure 4. VI. PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT A. Description The canopy Hotel brand is an emerging boutique hotel experience developed by Hilton Hotels. This new type of hotel experience is marketed towards the millennial generation (those born between 198 and the mid-2s), however, is relevant for the older generation of hotel guests. Each canopy Hotel is designed to incorporate the essence of its local surroundings and neighborhood feel; such as offering a local welcome gift and evening tastings of local food, beers, wines, and spirits to providing local fitness and recreation options in terms of jogging and bicycle routes (bicycles will be available for rent). The proposed canopy Ithaca by Hilton provides approximately 123 guestrooms, an upscale casual restaurant (2, SF), a small board room and meeting room (1, SF), a fitness room, and a café/bar area. A porte-cochère for guest drop-off and pick-up, valet service for guests, and a guest parking zone along Seneca Way are proposed. Figure 3 January 215

11 Traffic Impact Study Proposed canopy Ithaca The Commons by Hilton City of Ithaca, New York 5 illustrates the proposed concept site plan. Figure 6 shows the intended valet routes between the East Seneca Street Parking Garage and the proposed hotel. Variations in the temporal traffic conditions may dictate the valet take an alternative route, however, the graphic illustrates the most likely routes between the garage and proposed site. B. Site Traffic and Parking Generation Traffic Generation The volume of traffic generated by a site is dependent on the intended land use and size of the development. Trip generation is an estimate of the number of trips generated by a specific building or land use. These trips represent the volume of traffic entering and exiting the development. The Institute of Transportation Engineers (ITE) Trip Generation, 9 th Edition manual is used as a reference for this information. The trip rate for the peak hour of the generator may or may not coincide in time or volume with the trip rate for the peak hour of adjacent street traffic. Volumes generated during the peak hour of adjacent street traffic, in this case, the weekday AM and PM peaks, represent a more critical volume when analyzing the capacity of the system; those intervals will provide the basis of this analysis. The volume of site-generated traffic entering and exiting the proposed site has been estimated based on data contained in the Trip Generation manual. The ITE Trip Generation land use code (Hotel using 7% average occupancy) was used to generate traffic for the proposed site. ITE defines hotels as places of lodging that provide sleeping accommodations and supporting facilities such as restaurants; cocktail lounges; meeting and banquet rooms or convention facilities; limited recreation facilities (pool, fitness room); and/or other retail and service shops. All trip generation calculations are included in the Appendix of this report. Table I shows the total site generated trips for the weekday AM and weekday PM peak hours for the proposed canopy Ithaca by Hilton. T A B L E I PROJECTED DRIVEWAY VOLUMES DESCRIPTION AM PEAK HOUR PM PEAK HOUR ENTER EXIT ENTER EXIT canopy Ithaca Hotel Quality Restaurant 1 5 Total It is noted that the projected trip generation may overestimate the actual trips that are likely to be generated by the canopy Ithaca by Hilton. This is primarily due to the central downtown location of the hotel and its proximity to the multitude of amenities provided in the immediate area (e.g., 4 January 215

12 Traffic Impact Study Proposed canopy Ithaca The Commons by Hilton City of Ithaca, New York The Commons). In addition, transit service is both conveniently located and adequate service to desirable destinations is provided in a timely manner. Further, this brand of hotel offers guests the ability to check-in without visiting the front desk, and receive pertinent information using their smart phones, potentially reducing the number of vehicles entering the site driveway. Therefore, vehicular traffic demand is likely to be reduced in favor of transit, pedestrian trips, and smart technologies. Parking Generation Parking generation rates published by ITE in the 3 rd Edition of Parking Generation indicate that full service hotels have an average parking demand of.91 vehicles per hotel room and a peak (85 th percentile) parking demand of 1.14 vehicles per hotel room. ITE Trip Generation and Parking Generation data, and data contained in Shared Parking Second Edition published by the Urban Land Institute also indicate that hotel rooms are 7% occupied on average. A modal split of 6%-7% auto usage and 3%-4% other modes (e.g. taxis, transit, shuttle service) is anticipated. Therefore, the proposed canopy Ithaca by Hilton is expected to require between 47 and 59 parking spaces on an average day for hotel guests. In addition to ITE published rates, this study also reviews potential parking demand using industry collected data. Hotel parkers are typically segmented by guests, visitors, and employees. The most common group requiring the most parking demand is guests. Based on discussions with the project developer, approximately 6% of guests will arrive by personal vehicles (the rest arrive by taxi, shuttle, transit, etc.). Using the previously discussed 7% occupancy rate (i.e. 86 rooms occupied out of 123 total), as well as using the 6% drive-in rate, there is a demand for 52 parking spaces. However, in urbanized areas like Ithaca, drive-in rates are as low as 2%. Therefore, using this urbanized average (and 7% occupancy rate), there is a demand for 17 parking spaces. The next group is visitors to the hotel classified as those individuals travelling to the hotel for business or group meetings. It is estimated that 25-5 can be accommodated between the board and meeting rooms. Industry standards indicate a drive-in rate of 35%, and therefore result in a demand for nine to 18 parking spaces, depending on group size. Lastly, discussions with the project developer indicate that the hotel will employ employees, depending the season, on a daily basis. In urbanized areas, drive-in rates for employees are approximately 5% (reduced due to transit, taxi, walking, bicycling, etc). Therefore, there is a demand of parking spaces for the hotel employees. The ULI indicates for a 2, SF Fine/Casual Dining Restaurant that approximately 31 parking spaces are required for visitors (15.4 vehicles per 1, SF), while there is a demand for six spaces for employees (2.75 vehicles 5 January 215

13 Traffic Impact Study Proposed canopy Ithaca The Commons by Hilton City of Ithaca, New York per 1, SF). Given the proximity of the project site to nearby high density neighborhoods, the walkable nature of the city, and hotel guests already staying on-site, parking ratios may be reduced. Using an employee drive-in ratio of 5% (from the hotel) and a conservative patron drive-in ratio of 7%, there is a demand for approximately 25 parking spaces. As well, the peak parking demand hour for this type of restaurant occurs after the typical weekday commuter peak hour during the PM peak. The availability of parking spaces in the downtown central business district, (CBD) will likely be greater as a result of departing worker traffic, thus contributing to shared parking tendencies between the proposed hotel uses and existing nearby employment-based land uses (each use has varying demand patterns depending on the time of day). Therefore, the total average demand for daily parking spaces required by hotel guests, visitors, employees, and the restaurant is expected to range from spaces. The project developer indicated that approximately 6-7 parking spaces will be secured in the East Seneca Street Parking Garage on the top deck. Dedicated overflow parking is provided, when necessary. Based on a review of the amount of parking spaces on the top deck of the East Seneca Street Garage, there are approximately 9 parking spaces. There are 451 total parking spaces within the garage with an average daytime occupancy rate of 6% (21 spaces) as documented previously by city parking staff. Additionally, the parking survey conducted by the city of parking availability during the evening with the proposed hotel in operation (assuming 1% occupancy with one vehicle per room which does not factor in visitors, employees, or restaurant patrons) results in a total garage occupancy rate (includes parking for from other users) of 77% (273 spaces). Table II depicts the total hotel vehicle volume for parking space demand. The table segments the hotel parkers, and illustrates the average and peak parking demand requirements. T A B L E I I TOTAL HOTEL VEHICLE VOLUME HOTEL PARKERS AVERAGE PEAK Overnight Guests 17 to Visitors 9 to Employees 18 to Restaurant Patrons Total Parking Space Demand 69 to Note: 1 = Using 1% occupancy rate 2 = Using 1% drive-in rate 6 January 215

14 Traffic Impact Study Proposed canopy Ithaca The Commons by Hilton City of Ithaca, New York The peak demand for parking indicates a required 149 parking spaces. Valet parking will be offered for hotel patrons enabling increased utilization of less convenient, unused parking spaces. There are 11 parking spaces provided onsite. Three of the 11 spaces are signed for 15-minute parking. There is one ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessible parking space. In addition, there are opportunities for individuals to park off-site and at nearby parking garages. Using the East Seneca Street Parking Garage and other available parking locations throughout the downtown CBD, there are sufficient parking spaces available to accommodate the average daily, and peak, hotel parking needs. C. Site Traffic Distribution The cumulative effect of site traffic on the transportation network is dependent on the origins and destinations of that traffic and the location of the access drives serving the site. The proposed arrival/departure distribution of traffic to be generated at this site is considered a function of several parameters, including the following: Colleges and Universities in the area; Existing highway network (considering the one-way street system); Existing traffic conditions and controls; East Seneca Street Parking Garage access drive location; Proposed driveway location Figure 7 shows the anticipated trip distribution pattern percentages for the proposed development and Figure 8 illustrates the peak hour site generated traffic based on those percentages for the weekday AM and PM peak hour periods. It should be noted that the report analyses the arrival traffic as entering the proposed development s driveway and departing traffic as exiting the proposed hotel and travelling to the East Seneca Street Garage. There may likely be guests who check-in at the hotel using the on-street loading spaces along Seneca Way, as well as departing patrons who may not travel to the parking garage. However, for conservative purposes, all traffic is projected to use the site s proposed driveway along M.L.K. Jr. Street. VII. FULL DEVELOPMENT VOLUMES Proposed design hour traffic volumes are developed for each peak by combining the background traffic conditions (Figure 4) and the newly created traffic generations (Figure 8). The resulting network design hour volumes, based on the development as proposed, are illustrated in Figure 9. 7 January 215

15 Traffic Impact Study Proposed canopy Ithaca The Commons by Hilton City of Ithaca, New York VIII. CAPACITY ALYSIS Capacity analysis is a technique used for determining a measure of effectiveness for a section of roadway and/or intersection based on the number of vehicles during a specific time period. The measure of effectiveness used for the capacity analysis is referred to as a Level of Service (LOS). Levels of Service are calculated to provide an indication of the amount of delay that a motorist experiences while traveling along a roadway or through an intersection. Since the most amount of delay to motorists usually occurs at intersections, the capacity analysis specifically focuses on intersections. Six Levels of Service are defined for analysis purposes. They are assigned letter designations, from "A" to "F", with LOS "A" representing the best conditions and LOS "F" the worst. Suggested ranges of service capacity and an explanation of Levels of Service are included in the Appendix. The standard procedure for capacity analysis of signalized and unsignalized intersections is outlined in the Highway Capacity Manual (HCM 21) published by the Transportation Research Board. Traffic analysis software, Synchro 7, which is based on procedures and methodologies contained in the HCM, was used to analyze operating conditions at study area intersections. The procedure yields a Level of Service (LOS) based on the HCM 21 as an indicator of how well intersections operate. Existing operating conditions during the peak study periods are evaluated to determine a basis for comparison with the projected future conditions. The future traffic conditions generated by the development were analyzed to assess the operations of the intersections in the study area. Capacity results for existing, background, and full development are listed in Table III. The discussion following the table summarizes capacity conditions. All capacity analysis calculations are included in the Appendix. 8 January 215

16 Traffic Impact Study Proposed canopy Ithaca The Commons by Hilton City of Ithaca, New York T A B L E I I I CAPACITY ALYSIS RESULTS Full Existing Background Intersection Development AM PM AM PM AM PM M.L.K. Jr. Street/Green Street (S) Eastbound M.L.K. Jr. Street A(4.1) A(2.4) A(3.9) A(2.5) A(3.9) A(2.9) Westbound M.L.K. Jr. Street A(.3) A(.5) A(.3) A(.5) A(.4) A(.6) Northbound Green Street B(16.7) B(15.6) B(17.2) B(16.) B(17.5) B(16.2) Overall LOS B(1.9) A(8.9) B(11.3) A(9.1) B(11.4) A(9.2) M.L.K. Jr. Street/Seneca Way West (S) Eastbound M.L.K. Jr. Street D(39.4) D(49.2) D(39.7) D(49.9) D(4.5) D(53.7) Westbound M.L.K. Jr. Street C(23.2) C(3.7) C(23.8) C(31.8) C(24.2) C(33.7) Northbound Left Seneca Way West C(22.4) C(24.9) C(22.5) C(25.) C(23.6) C(26.2) Northbound Thru Seneca Way West C(23.2) C(29.) C(23.3) C(29.2) C(23.5) C(29.4) Overall LOS C(26.1) C(32.6) C(26.5) C(33.2) C(26.9) C(34.7) M.L.K. Jr. Street/Proposed Driveway (U) Eastbound Left M.L.K. Jr. Street A(.4) A(.4) N/A N/A Southbound Proposed Driveway B(1.8) B(13.3) M.L.K. Jr. Street/Aurora Street (S) 1,2 Westbound M.L.K. Jr. Street C(26.8) E(68.9) C(27.3) E(77.1) C(29.2) D(4.7) Northbound Aurora Street B(18.3) B(17.8) B(18.7) B(18.2) B(18.8) C(31.8) Overall LOS C(21.8) D(44.) C(22.3) D(48.4) C(23.3) D(36.4) East Seneca Street/North Aurora Street (S) Westbound Thru East Seneca Street B(18.1) C(27.2) B(18.2) C(28.9) B(18.3) C(3.1) Westbound Right East Seneca Street B(15.3) B(18.7) B(15.4) B(18.9) B(15.4) B(18.9) Northbound North Aurora Street A(5.7) A(9.6) A(5.6) A(9.6) A(7.2) B(11.3) Overall LOS B(12.7) C(2.3) B(12.8) C(21.2) B(13.4) C(22.3) East Seneca Street/Tioga Street (S) Westbound Thru East Seneca Street A(7.) B(14.7) A(7.) B(15.4) A(7.3) B(17.) Southbound Right Tioga Street A(4.2) C(23.7) A(4.8) C(23.9) A(4.8) C(23.9) Overall LOS A(6.5) B(16.2) A(6.6) B(16.8) A(6.8) B(18.2) East Seneca Street/North Cayuga Street (S) 2 Westbound Thru East Seneca Street B(1.8) B(12.6) B(11.3) B(14.2) B(17.3) B(2.) Southbound North Cayuga Street E(62.5) F(8.6) E(67.1) F(87.7) D(41.5) E(67.4) Overall LOS C(27.5) C(3.5) C(29.3) C(33.6) C(25.1) C(32.5) Green Street/South Cayuga Street (S) Eastbound Thru Green Street C(23.6) C(33.9) C(24.) C(34.5) C(24.4) C(35.7) Northbound Right South Cayuga Street D(4.6) C(23.7) D(41.8) C(24.1) D(43.5) C(24.6) Southbound Left South Cayuga Street C(25.6) B(19.) C(25.7) B(19.1) C(25.8) B(19.2) Southbound Thru South Cayuga Street C(3.3) C(26.2) C(3.7) C(26.7) C(3.7) C(26.7) Overall LOS C(28.7) C(27.7) C(29.2) C(28.2) C(29.9) C(28.8) Notes: A(4.1) = Level of Service(Delay in seconds per vehicle) (S) = Signalized intersection; (U) = Unsignalized Intersection N/A = Approach does not exist and/or was not analyzed during this condition 1 = Intersection analyzed using City of Ithaca signal timing as it was stop-controlled during data collection 9 January 215

17 Traffic Impact Study Proposed canopy Ithaca The Commons by Hilton City of Ithaca, New York 2 = Full development conditions represent mitigated conditions using minor signal timing adjustments. No other adjustments are needed at the other study area intersections. M.L.K. Jr. Street/Green Street The results show that this intersection operates at overall level of service B and A during the AM and PM peak hours, respectively, under all conditions. No change in level of service is expected as a result of the proposed development. As such, no mitigation is warranted or recommended at this intersection. M.L.K. Jr. Street/Seneca Way West The results show that this intersection operates at overall level of service C during both the AM and PM peak hours under all conditions. No change in level of service is projected as a result of the proposed development. As such, no mitigation is recommended at this intersection as a result of this development. M.L.K. Jr. Street/Proposed Driveway All approaches are projected to operate at level of service B or better during both peak hours under full development conditions. Observations throughout the corridor at the time of data collection showed vehicle queues extending beyond the driveway entrance through the Seneca Way West and Green Street intersections. It should be noted that the intersection of M.L.K. Jr. Street/Aurora Street was operating as an allway stop at the time of data collection due to the replacement of the traffic signal. Valet services should be encouraged to exit the hotel to the west and use the M.L.K. Jr. Street/Aurora Street intersection to travel to the secured parking garage. However, depending on the traffic conditions along, motorists may choose to exit the site to the east and travel along Seneca Way to enter the parking garage. No other mitigation is recommended at this intersection as a result of this development. M.L.K. Jr. Street/Aurora Street The overall level of service operates at C during the AM peak hour and D during the PM peak hour under all conditions. Increasing the green time given to westbound motorists between background and full development conditions during the PM peak hour improves the westbound LOS from E to D. Although the northbound operating condition changes from LOS B to C, between background and full development conditions, the overall delay during the PM peak hour improves from 48.4 seconds to 36.4 seconds. East Seneca Street/North Aurora Street The northbound approach is expected to change in level of service from A to B during the PM peak hour between background and full development conditions. No other change in LOS is projected as a result of the proposed development. All approaches operate at LOS C or better during both peak hours under all conditions. No mitigation is warranted or recommended. 1 January 215

18 Traffic Impact Study Proposed canopy Ithaca The Commons by Hilton City of Ithaca, New York East Seneca Street/Tioga Street The overall level of service operates at A and B during the AM and PM peak hours, respectively, under all conditions. No change in LOS is projected as a result of the proposed development. As such, no mitigation is warranted or recommended. East Seneca Street/North Cayuga Street The overall intersection level of service operates at C during the AM and PM peak hours under all conditions. With minor signal timing adjustments as mitigation, no change in LOS is projected during both peak hours as a result of the proposed development. Signal timing adjustments to increase the green time given to southbound motorists during the AM and PM peak hours improves the LOS from E to D during the AM peak hour and F to E during the PM peak hour. Green Street/North Cayuga Street The overall level of service operates at C during the AM and PM peak hours under all conditions. All approaches operate at LOS D or better during both peak hours under all conditions. No mitigation is warranted or recommended. IX. PROPOSED ON-STREET LOADING AREA An eight foot wide, 4 foot long curb lane for guest parking is proposed along Seneca Way. This existing curbside area can accommodate approximately two vehicles at a time and can be used for temporary loading/deliveries and guest check-in. Signage inside and outside the hotel is recommended to direct hotel guests to the East Seneca Street Garage to lessen the demand along Seneca Way. Additionally, guests who travel to the hotel via personal automobile can be directed to the parking garage prior to arriving through the smart phone app for the hotel. X. PROPOSED TRUCK DELIVERIES Truck deliveries are anticipated on-site and will likely be made during early morning (before 7 AM) and early afternoon hours via the proposed driveway along M.L.K. Jr. Street. Therefore deliveries will not impact the peak commuter travel periods. XI. MULTI-MODAL CONSIDERATIONS Pedestrian Facilities The City of Ithaca is noted for high levels of walking for daily transport. According to the 212 U.S. Census American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year Estimates for transportation mode share, approximately 42% of residents walk to work. This figure is buoyed by the proximity of Cornell University to the CBD; however, the higher density of the city allows for more non-motorized transport between residential neighborhoods, and places of work and play. Sidewalks are present throughout the CBD and adjacent to the proposed hotel. Pedestrian crosswalks and countdown signals are 11 January 215

19 Traffic Impact Study Proposed canopy Ithaca The Commons by Hilton City of Ithaca, New York present at signalized intersections. The width of the sidewalks varies between five feet (along Seneca Way) and eight feet (along M.L.K. Jr. Street) around the block on which the proposed hotel is located. The site is designed for transparency between the public realm and interior hotel uses, specifically along Seneca Way. A pedestrian walkway connects the sidewalk along M.L.K. Jr. Street to the entrance of the hotel and continues around the east side of the building to provide a continuous link to Seneca Way. A pedestrian entrance is provided along Seneca Way. Moreover, the proposed canopy Ithaca by Hilton is located less than 3 feet from The Commons. Hotel guests will also be given information on recommended jogging routes throughout the city. Bicycle Facilities Bicycle storage racks are located throughout the city. The city is expanding its bicycle infrastructure in terms of on-street bicycle lanes, shared lane markings ( sharrows ), and a proposed bicycle boulevard along Plain Street between Elmira Road to Cascadilla Street. As was previously stated, the proposed hotel will offer bicycles for rent to its guests and provide maps to guide visitors to nearby destinations. A bicycle storage rack is located along M.L.K. Jr. Street. Transit Facilities Transit is an important mobility option for those travelling to/from destinations such as Cornell University and the Ithaca Tompkins Regional Airport. Tompkins Consolidated Area Transit (TCAT) has 33 bus routes, operates 22 hours a day, and services an areawide population of over 1,. Ridership has grown every year since 26 and accounts for over 1% of daily commuter trips (ACS, 212). Specifically to the proposed site, there are six transit stops located within a ¼-mile (five-minute walk) to the site. XII. CONCLUSIONS & RECOMMENDATIONS Based on the projected site generated traffic volumes and projected levels of service, the proposed canopy Ithaca by Hilton in the City of Ithaca will not have a significant adverse impact on existing traffic operations in the area, as documented in this report. The analyses contained in this report indicate that the existing transportation network can adequately accommodate the projected traffic volumes and resulting impacts to study area intersections with the recommendations outlined. The following conclusions and recommendations are based upon the results of the analyses: 1. The proposed development is expected to generate approximately 34 entering/24 exiting vehicles during the AM peak hour and 39 entering/36 exiting vehicles during the PM peak hour. 2. Minor signal timing changes are needed at two study intersections: Aurora Street/M.L.K.Jr. Street East Seneca Street/North Cayuga Street 12 January 215

20 Traffic Impact Study Proposed canopy Ithaca The Commons by Hilton City of Ithaca, New York 3. With the recommended signal timing mitigation in place, the proposed project will not result in any potentially significant adverse traffic impacts to the study area intersections. 4. Pedestrian walkways and connections to existing sidewalks are included. 5. Bicycles for rent and bike racks are provided on site. 6. The total demand for daily parking spaces required by hotel guests, visitors, employees, and the restaurant is expected to range from spaces. The project developer indicates that approximately 6-7 parking spaces will be secured in the East Seneca Street Parking Garage on the top deck. Dedicated overflow parking is provided, when necessary. Valet parking is offered for hotel patrons enabling increased parking garage utilization. There are 11 parking spaces provided on-site. Three of the 11 spaces are signed for 15-minute parking. There is one ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessible parking space. In addition, opportunities for individuals to park off-site exist on-street and at other nearby parking garages. 7. There are sufficient parking spaces available in the East Seneca Street Garage, as well as nearby parking garages, to accommodate the average daily hotel parking needs, as documented in a previous parking study by City Parking staff. In-door and out-door signage is recommended to direct hotel guests to the East Seneca Street Garage. 8. An eight foot wide, 4 foot long curb lane for guest parking is proposed along Seneca Way. This existing curbside area can accommodate approximately two vehicles at a time and can be used for temporary loading/deliveries and guest check-in. 9. Truck deliveries are planned on-site during off-peak hours. XIII. FIGURES Figures 1 through 9 are included on the following pages. 13 January 215

21 Schuyler Pl Spring Ln Terrace Pl Glen Pl Parker Pl S Cayuga St N Cayuga St Giles St Sage Pl Willets Pl E Buffalo St Fountain Pl W Buffalo St!! 7 6! 5 E Seneca St W Seneca St Seneca Way N Aurora St N Tioga St! 8! 4! 3! 2! 1 E State St W State St State Hwy 79 S Aurora St E Green St W Green St Hudson St Prospect St N Geneva St 3 PROPOSED CANOPY ITHACA HILTON HOTEL CITY OF ITHACA, NY Feet S Geneva St Legend Site Location Study Area FIGURE 1 - SITE LOCATION AND STUDY AREA PROPOSED CANOPY HOTEL! Study Intersection! Proposed Intersection

22

23

24

25 FIGURE 5 - CONCEPT SITE PLAN

26 FIGURE 6 - PROPOSED VALET ROUTES

27

28

29

30 APPENDICES

31 A1 Collected Traffic Volume Data

32 Type of peak hour being reported: Intersection Peak Method for determining peak hour: Total Entering Volume LOCATION: N Tioga St -- E Seneca St QC JOB #: CITY/STATE: Ithaca, NY DATE: Thu, Dec Peak-Hour: 8: AM -- 9: AM Peak 15-Min: 8:45 AM -- 9: AM Min Count Period N Tioga St (Northbound) N Tioga St (Southbound) E Seneca St (Eastbound) E Seneca St (Westbound) Total Hourly Totals Beginning At Left Thru Right U Left Thru Right U Left Thru Right U Left Thru Right U 7: AM :15 AM :3 AM :45 AM : AM :15 AM :3 AM :45 AM Peak 15-Min Northbound Southbound Eastbound Westbound Flowrates Left Thru Right U Left Thru Right U Left Thru Right U Left Thru Right U Total All Vehicles Heavy Trucks Pedestrians Bicycles Railroad Stopped Buses Comments: Report generated on 12/12/214 12:15 PM SOURCE: Quality Counts, LLC (

33 Type of peak hour being reported: Intersection Peak Method for determining peak hour: Total Entering Volume LOCATION: N Tioga St -- E Seneca St QC JOB #: CITY/STATE: Ithaca, NY DATE: Thu, Dec Peak-Hour: 4:15 PM -- 5:15 PM Peak 15-Min: 4:3 PM -- 4:45 PM Min Count Period N Tioga St (Northbound) N Tioga St (Southbound) E Seneca St (Eastbound) E Seneca St (Westbound) Total Hourly Totals Beginning At Left Thru Right U Left Thru Right U Left Thru Right U Left Thru Right U 4: PM :15 PM :3 PM :45 PM : PM :15 PM :3 PM :45 PM Peak 15-Min Northbound Southbound Eastbound Westbound Flowrates Left Thru Right U Left Thru Right U Left Thru Right U Left Thru Right U Total All Vehicles Heavy Trucks Pedestrians Bicycles 1 1 Railroad Stopped Buses Comments: Report generated on 12/12/214 12:15 PM SOURCE: Quality Counts, LLC (

34 Type of peak hour being reported: Intersection Peak Method for determining peak hour: Total Entering Volume LOCATION: S Cayuga St -- E Green St QC JOB #: CITY/STATE: Ithaca, NY DATE: Wed, Oct Peak-Hour: 7:45 AM -- 8:45 AM Peak 15-Min: 8: AM -- 8:15 AM Min Count Period S Cayuga St (Northbound) S Cayuga St (Southbound) E Green St (Eastbound) E Green St (Westbound) Total Hourly Totals Beginning At Left Thru Right U Left Thru Right U Left Thru Right U Left Thru Right U 7: AM :15 AM :3 AM :45 AM : AM :15 AM :3 AM :45 AM Peak 15-Min Northbound Southbound Eastbound Westbound Flowrates Left Thru Right U Left Thru Right U Left Thru Right U Left Thru Right U Total All Vehicles Heavy Trucks Pedestrians Bicycles Railroad Stopped Buses Comments: Report generated on 1/13/214 8:35 PM SOURCE: Quality Counts, LLC (

35 Type of peak hour being reported: Intersection Peak Method for determining peak hour: Total Entering Volume LOCATION: S Cayuga St -- E Green St QC JOB #: CITY/STATE: Ithaca, NY DATE: Thu, Oct Peak-Hour: 4:3 PM -- 5:3 PM Peak 15-Min: 5:15 PM -- 5:3 PM Min Count Period S Cayuga St (Northbound) S Cayuga St (Southbound) E Green St (Eastbound) E Green St (Westbound) Total Hourly Totals Beginning At Left Thru Right U Left Thru Right U Left Thru Right U Left Thru Right U 4: PM :15 PM :3 PM :45 PM : PM :15 PM :3 PM :45 PM Peak 15-Min Northbound Southbound Eastbound Westbound Flowrates Left Thru Right U Left Thru Right U Left Thru Right U Left Thru Right U Total All Vehicles Heavy Trucks Pedestrians Bicycles Railroad Stopped Buses Comments: Report generated on 1/13/214 8:35 PM SOURCE: Quality Counts, LLC (

36 Type of peak hour being reported: Intersection Peak Method for determining peak hour: Total Entering Volume LOCATION: N Cayuga St -- W Seneca St QC JOB #: CITY/STATE: Ithaca, NY DATE: Thu, Oct Peak-Hour: 8: AM -- 9: AM Peak 15-Min: 8:45 AM -- 9: AM Min Count Period N Cayuga St (Northbound) N Cayuga St (Southbound) W Seneca St (Eastbound) W Seneca St (Westbound) Total Hourly Totals Beginning At Left Thru Right U Left Thru Right U Left Thru Right U Left Thru Right U 7: AM :15 AM :3 AM :45 AM : AM :15 AM :3 AM :45 AM Peak 15-Min Northbound Southbound Eastbound Westbound Flowrates Left Thru Right U Left Thru Right U Left Thru Right U Left Thru Right U Total All Vehicles Heavy Trucks Pedestrians Bicycles Railroad Stopped Buses Comments: Report generated on 1/13/214 8:35 PM SOURCE: Quality Counts, LLC (

37 Type of peak hour being reported: Intersection Peak Method for determining peak hour: Total Entering Volume LOCATION: N Cayuga St -- W Seneca St QC JOB #: CITY/STATE: Ithaca, NY DATE: Thu, Oct Peak-Hour: 4:3 PM -- 5:3 PM Peak 15-Min: 4:3 PM -- 4:45 PM Min Count Period N Cayuga St (Northbound) N Cayuga St (Southbound) W Seneca St (Eastbound) W Seneca St (Westbound) Total Hourly Totals Beginning At Left Thru Right U Left Thru Right U Left Thru Right U Left Thru Right U 4: PM :15 PM :3 PM :45 PM : PM :15 PM :3 PM :45 PM Peak 15-Min Northbound Southbound Eastbound Westbound Flowrates Left Thru Right U Left Thru Right U Left Thru Right U Left Thru Right U Total All Vehicles Heavy Trucks Pedestrians Bicycles Railroad Stopped Buses Comments: Report generated on 1/13/214 8:35 PM SOURCE: Quality Counts, LLC (

38 Type of peak hour being reported: Intersection Peak Method for determining peak hour: Total Entering Volume LOCATION: N Aurora St -- E Seneca St QC JOB #: CITY/STATE: Ithaca, NY DATE: Wed, Oct Peak-Hour: 8: AM -- 9: AM Peak 15-Min: 8:45 AM -- 9: AM Min Count Period N Aurora St (Northbound) N Aurora St (Southbound) E Seneca St (Eastbound) E Seneca St (Westbound) Total Hourly Totals Beginning At Left Thru Right U Left Thru Right U Left Thru Right U Left Thru Right U 7: AM :15 AM :3 AM :45 AM : AM :15 AM :3 AM :45 AM Peak 15-Min Northbound Southbound Eastbound Westbound Flowrates Left Thru Right U Left Thru Right U Left Thru Right U Left Thru Right U Total All Vehicles Heavy Trucks Pedestrians Bicycles Railroad Stopped Buses Comments: Report generated on 1/13/214 8:35 PM SOURCE: Quality Counts, LLC (