Planning Commission Agenda

March 26, 2015

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Meeting Agenda
State College Borough Planning Commission
Regular Meeting
March 26, 2015
Room 304 / 7 p.m.

I.

Call to Order

II.

Roll Call
Michael Roeckel, Chairman
Anita Genger, Vice-Chairwoman
Zoe Boniface
Charles Dumas
Scott Dutt
Jon Eich
Richard Kalin

III.

Approval of Minutes February 12, 2015 and March 3, 2015

IV.

Chair Report

V.

Public Hour - Hearing of Citizens

VI.

Community-Wide Planning
A. Centre Region Bike Plan
In May 2012, the League of American Bicyclists (LAB) designated the Centre
Region as a Bronze-level Bicycle Friendly Community (BFC). As part of the
application review and designation, the LAB provided the Centre Region
Council of Governments (COG) with a feedback report that listed short- and
long-term recommendations to promote bicycling in the Region.
CRPA staff worked with the COG Transportation and Land Use (TLU)
Committee to identify and prioritize key actions that should be advanced
based on the LABs recommendations. It was decided that preparation of a
Regional Bicycle Plan would be advanced by COG on behalf of the Regions
municipalities, with the TLU Committee providing plan oversight.
In September 2014, CRPA staff provided a presentation to the COG General
Forum, which is comprised of all Centre Region elected officials. As part of
the planning process, CRPA staff will also be attending municipal planning
commission meetings to introduce the plan and receive input.
At the State College Borough Planning Commission meeting, staff will provide
an overview of the plan components and schedule; and review existing and

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proposed facilities in State College Borough. As part of the discussion, staff

is looking for input on proposed bicycle facilities and programs that should be
considered in the plan. Plan adoption is scheduled for December 2015.
The following information items are attached to the agenda on pages 15-26:

State College Borough Bicycle Facilities Map

State College Borough Bicycle Facilities: Existing and Proposed
Centre Region Bike Plan Public Input Tool
Centre Region Bicycle Plan Schedule

Planning Commission Action: Please review the information and provide

feedback to the Centre Regional Planning Agency.
B. 2015-2019 Capital Improvements Program Review
The process for preparing the next Capital Improvements Program (CIP) will
kick off at the end of March. In order for staff to begin drafting the CIP for
2016-2020, staff is requesting that several of the ABCs review the previous
CIP, for 2015-2019, and provide any feedback on the projects that were
previously identified.
A memo outlining projects that may be of interest to the Commission from the
2015-2019 CIP is included on pages 27-28 of the agenda. The full
2015-2019 CIP can be found on the Boroughs website at:
http://www.statecollegepa.us/documentcenter/view/9395
Planning Commission Action: Review the 2015-2019 CIP and provide
feedback on the projects that were previously identified that may aid staff in
preparing the next CIP.
VII.

Downtown Planning - none

VIII.

Work Program
A. 2014 State of Planning Report
Staff will deliver the draft 2014 State of Planning Report. This report is
required by the PA Municipalities Planning Code and is a summary of 2014
activities completed by the Planning Commission and Planning staff.
It is anticipated that the Commission will discuss the draft during the April 1,
2015 meeting and approve the final draft during the April 9, 2015 meeting.
The final report will be forwarded to Borough Council as well as regional and
county planning agencies.

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Below is the link for the most recent draft of the report:
http://www.statecollegepa.us/DocumentCenter/View/10348
Planning Commission Action: Receive the draft State of Planning Report.
Review and prepare comments to discuss with staff during the April 1 regular
meeting.
IX.

Official Reports and Correspondence

A. Borough Council (BC)
B. Redevelopment Authority (RDA)
C. Centre Regional Planning Commission (CRPC)
D. Land Development Plans
E. Staff Updates

X.

Upcoming Meetings
Wednesday, April 1, 201512 p.m.
Thursday, April 9, 20157 p.m.
Thursday, April 16, 20157 p.m.

XI.

Adjournment

Planning Commission Agenda

March 26, 2015
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Meeting Minutes
State College Borough Planning Commission
February 12, 2015
The State College Borough Planning Commission met on Thursday, February 12, 2015
in the State College Municipal Building, 243 South Allen Street, State College, PA.
Chair Roeckel called the meeting to order at 7:02 p.m.
Members Present
Michael Roeckel, Chair; Anita Genger, Vice-Chair; Zoe Boniface, Charles Dumas, Scott
Dutt, Jon Eich, and Richard Kalin
Also Present
Edward LeClear, Planning Director; Anne Messner, Planner/Zoning; Meagan
Tuttle/Planner; Denise Rhoads, Staff Assistant and other interested parties
Approval of Minutes
A motion to approve the February 4, 2015 minutes as submitted was made by Ms.
Boniface and seconded by Ms. Genger. The vote was unanimous.
Chair Report
Chair Roeckel had nothing to report.
Public Hour
No one was present who wished to discuss items not on the agenda.
Community Planning
Zoning Ordinance Review
Mr. LeClear gave a brief update on the zoning rewrite. He noted there were a number
of things to get off the agenda, such as, the Property Maintenance Code, Student Home
Licensing and the Nuisance Property Ordinance. He stated, on March 16, he will be
presenting to Council the Student Home Licensing. The topic will help lead into the
zoning rewrite.
Research on what other sister towns have done shows that there has not been a
comprehensive update in many years. Staff will spend time to find additional resources.
He discussed the budget and the deficit that needs to be dealt with.
Also, he noted, there are many different thoughts about how the rewrite should occur.
He stated that staff has been working on how to do this in an efficient way. Staff really
needs to get a good sense on what kind of an updated is wanted.

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Mr. Roeckel asked if there was anything that the Commission could do to help in
anyway. Mr. LeClear stated he would discuss that later in the meeting.
Ms. Messner gave a presentation on four zoning districts: Residential Office (RO),
Residential Office Overlay (ROO), Residential Office (ROA) and Planned Office (PO).
First discussed was the RO district established in 1975. This was a result of the
discussion and the adoption of the 1972 comprehensive plan. She noted it was
established because of concerns about the transitional area adjacent to the C
(Commercial District) at that time. This district was adopted to address those concerns.
Next discussed was the RO-O overlay established in 2012. The location of the overlay
is the 200 and all of the 300 blocks of East Beaver Avenue to create more building
diversity in that area.
Next discussed was the RO-A district established in 1998. This came out of a portion of
the R3 zone and most of these buildings contributed to the historical district. Some were
razed for apartment buildings and it had some density to it. It limits density to threefamily dwellings with no more than two bedrooms per unit as well as rooming houses. It
also allows non-conforming existing buildings to be reused.
Next discussed was the P-O district established in 1979. It is along University Drive.
Ms. Messner noted she had found some minutes stating that there had been some
agreements between the Borough and landowners to allow for office buildings. The
zoning wasnt in place to allow office buildings. This was an effort to have zoning and
the land use match.
Ms. Messner noted there is a little bit of variety in setbacks between districts. The RO
district is emulating the historic character of those areas. Those are the older parts of
town. Ms. Messner also noted there is a little bit of variety in height. It does increase a
little when you are in the RO district.
Ms. Messner stated all districts have to follow the current parking standards.
Ms. Tuttle, briefly, went over the zoning district maps.
Commissioners comments were:
Mr. Kalin asked if staff will be going back to square one or start cleaning up
each district as it stands currently. Mr. LeClear gave a brief overview of what
had happened in the past in the area he came from as a point of comparison.
Ms. Boniface stated she appreciates the order but, she likes the
hodgepodge as well.
Best Practices Research
Staffs presentation included:
PC Research Project: Engagement and Partnership
1. Initiatives to foster positive relationships between student and long

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long term residents

2. Strategies for community engagement in civic and planning initiatives
3. Examples of public-private partnerships for projects which benefit the
communities development

Policies and Regulates

1. Policies to guide future land use and development
2. Model ordinances for sustainable community/project development
3. Model ordinances for visitability/ADA access
4. Strategies for comprehensive zoning ordinance, property maintenance
code, or other regulatory updates

Research Objectives
1. What is the topic/community issue that the research relates to?
2. What is the relevant solution?
3. In what community was this solution used? Briefly describe community
characteristics.
4. Who was involved in implementing this solution?
5. What resources were utilized by those involved?
6. What are the lessons learned that are applicable to State College?
7. Useful sources
8. Once a Commission member has a presentation ready, it will be
presented to the group as a whole. A PowerPoint will be required.
9. Some resources that staff uses are: American Planning Association

Research Logistics
1. Complete research by the May 4, 2015 PC Meeting
2. Prepare a brief PowerPoint outlining the information from previous
slide; plan to give a presentation during a future PC meeting.
3. Send staff the presentation by the Friday before the meeting during
which you will be presenting
4. Potential Resources to utilize: Google, new and social media,
American Planning Association (APA) resources, individual APA state
chapter websites, Knight Foundation, Planetizen, PlaceMakers, 8-80
Cities, Walkable Livable Cities Institute, Smart Growth American, Form
Based Codes Institute, Municipal & University websites, etc.

NCS Peer Communities

1. Will provide the Commission with information from the National
Citizens Survey, National Benchmarks and Peer Communities

Research Topics asked the Commissioners if they wanted to volunteer to

research any of these topics:
1. Initiatives to foster positive relationships between student & long-term
residents
2. Strategies for community engagement in civic and planning initiatives
3. Examples of public-private partnerships for projects which benefit the
communitys development (Zoe and Rich)

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4. Policies to guide future land use & development (i.e. smart growth, etc)
(Charles & Jon)
5. Model ordinances for sustainable community/project development
(Anita, Jon and Mike)
6. Model ordinances for visitability/ADA access (Jon)
7. Strategies for comprehensive zoning ordinance, property maintenance
code, or other regulatory updates (Jon)
Official Reports and Correspondence
Borough Council (BC): Mr. LeClear reported Council approved the conditional use
agreement for State High.
Land Development Plans: Ms. Messner reported there are no new land development
plans.
Staff Updates:

Ms. Messner distributed an update for the Collegiate Housing Overlay.

Ms. Tuttle discussed, briefly, the collaboration between the Penn State IST Department
and Borough Partnership for the Geodeliberation Project. They piloted the community
issue review process with many of the Highlands neighbors about the Highlands
camera project. She noted that a second community issue review pilot has been
launched to discuss the Collegiate Housing Overlay. The panelist are going to be
studying this ordinance for the next nine days. On February 19, the panelist will meet in
person to create a citizens statement.
Ms. Tuttle stated, if the Commissioners are interested, they can forgo the regular PC
meeting in order to attend the February 19 panelist meeting.
A motion to cancel the February 19, 2015 meeting was made by Mr. Dumas and
seconded by Ms. Boniface. The vote was unanimous.
Upcoming Meetings
Mr. LeClear reported there will be a joint meeting on March 4, 2015 with the Planning
Commission, Borough Council and the Redevelopment Authority to discuss the request
by Discovery Space to either gift or sell the Verizon Building to them.
Adjournment
With no further business to discuss, on a motion by Mr. Dumas, this meeting was
adjourned at 7:58 p.m.
Respectfully submitted by,
Denise L. Rhoads, Staff Assistant

Meeting Minutes
State College Borough Planning Commission
Joint meeting with the
State College Borough Council and Redevelopment Authority
Tuesday, March 3, 2015
The State College Borough Planning Commissions joint meeting with the State College
Borough Council and Redevelopment Authority met on Tuesday, March 3, 2015 in the State
College Municipal Building, 243 South Allen Street, State College, PA. Chairman Roeckel
called the meeting to order at Noon.
Planning Commission Members Present
Michael Roeckel, Chairman; Zoe Boniface, Charles Dumas, Jon Eich, and Richard Kalin
Borough Council Member Present
James L. Rosenberger, President; Elizabeth A. Goreham, Mayor; Thomas E. Daubert,
Theresa D. Lafer, Peter Morris and Evan Myers
Redevelopment Authority Members Present
Sally Lenker, Chairwoman; Jawaid Haider, Vice-Chairman; Silvi Lawrence and Colleen Ritter
Also Present
Ed LeClear, Planning & Community Development Director; Anne Messner, Planner/Zoning;
Meagan Tuttle, Planner; Denise Rhoads, Staff Assistant, Ed Holmes, Public Services Manager;
Thomas Fountaine, Borough Manager, Terry Williams and Lisa Welsh, Borough Solicitors and
other interested parties
Approval of Minutes
There were no minutes to approve.
Chair Report
Chairman Roeckel had nothing to report.
Public Hour
No one was present who wished to discuss items not on the agenda.
Current Planning
Joint Discussion of the Planning Commission with Borough Council and the Redevelopment
Authority
The topics of discussion included possible future use of the following lot(s):

Verizon Building (224 South Allen Street)

Verizon Building with First National Bank Building (224 and 222 South Allen
Street)
Allen Street parking lot (236 South Allen Street)

Mr. Fountaine, Borough Manager, started by welcoming everyone in attendance. He stated this
meeting was to lay out background information on this topic.
He discussed the Downtown Master Plan (DMP) and how this topic connects to it. He gave a
brief overview of this.
Mr. Fountaine noted, in 2007, the Borough bought the Verizon Building. There was a letter of
intent to sell the property to Discovery Space. Mr. Fountaine stated this was put in place in
2008. He noted, due to the economy, Discovery Space could not go through with the purchase.
In 2011, Penn State University (PSU) asked to rent the space from the Borough.
Mr. Fountaine noted there have been other offers for the site and he stated these would be
touched upon during this meeting.
Mr. Holmes, Public Services Manager, gave some site specifics which included:
Mr. Holmes noted a group toured the building last evening before the Council
meeting.
The lot is 10, 560 square feet.
It is 9,000 gross square feet with 7,700 square feet of leasable space.
The lease rate is $10 per square foot.
It is located between the Jeramar Building and the First National Bank (FNB) drivethrough.
Borough has completed lead based paint tests, asbestos abatement, fire alarm repair,
HVAC repair, and annual insurance and permitting and miscellaneous repairs by the
Public Works staff.
The Borough purchased the building in 2008 for $750,000 + closing costs.
The Borough, as the owner, incurred about $83,000 in expenses to date.
The income generated from rents to date is $354,580.64.
The current balance to the Capital Reserve fund is $402,611.38.
Planning staffs overview included:
In 1990, this was intended as a focal point to reinforce the community.
In 2002, the multiple concepts included: 1) a civic, institutional center, 2)
entertainment, arts, and cultural center, 3) a downtown core with a greater
mix of non-student housing.
It also identified future uses including a Childrens Science Museum.
In the 2013 plan recommendations, the plan was to focus on the 200 block of
Allen Street as a family and locally oriented corridor.
The ideas were for infill or redevelopment of multiple sites between Allen and
Fraser Streets.
The plan was also looking for clear and attractive connections between the
Municipal Building, Schlow Library, Memorial Field, Sidney Friedman Park and
Discovery Space.

The plan also included Allen Square Concepts: 1) FNB drive-through and
Verizon Building sites become public open spaces, 2) infill development on
Allen Street surface parking lot and the area behind Jeramar Plaza to
redevelop the post office and infill Beaver Avenue lot, 3) some of the
recommended uses included: 1) non-student housing, 2) family attractions, 3)
senior center, 4) open space (plaza) and 5) an incubator, co-working space.

Current Proposals
1. Discovery Space is requesting the Borough gift the building to them. Or, consider a
short-term lease arrangement while developing/locating a long-term permanent home
downtown.
2. Development through public/private partnership: 1) Penn Trust has expressed private
development interest, through a public/private partnership with the Borough, Discovery
Space and FNB to redevelop 224 S. Allen and the FNB drive-through site, 2)
condominium arrangement for tenants, and 3) upper floors to include residential and
structured parking within the building.
3. Penn State University Economic Development Initiative: 1) Economic Development
commitment to the University and Community, interest in an off- campus incubator, and
2) requested a five-year extension of the current lease for interim location while
considering a long-term/permanent home for the space.
4. 3rd Revolution (Community Maker Space): 1) requested to be part of a community wide
conversation about how a community maker space can be developed downtown, 2)
model may encompass goals of PSU Economic Development Initiatives, Downtown
Master Plan, Discovery Space, Schlow Library and other community partners, and 3) 224
South Allen Street being one tentatively identified location.
Next discussed, Review Process which included:
Current interest in this block presents a significant opportunity for partnerships
to enhance downtown. These decisions will shape the next 30+ years.
When reviewing options for the block, some guiding considerations should be:
1) how closely is the proposal aligned with Borough Councils Strategic Plan
and Adopted Downtown Master Plan(s)? (At this time, Mr. LeClear noted staff
provided a slip of paper at each members seat with the four options listed and
asked them to prioritize the options based on their opinion). 2) what is the
requested financial and/or strategic commitment by the Borough? 3) what is
the proposed timeframe? And 4) does the proposal build on partnerships that
can unlock the potential of this corridor, or preclude future opportunities due to
a limited scope? Can the proposal be part of a phased approached?
Potential Council Actions:
Dispose of property through sale to the highest bidder.
Gift or sell property to a non-profit organization such as proposed by Discover
Space.
Continue leasing building to current or alternate tenants.
Direct the Redevelopment Authority (RDA) to undertake redevelopment of 224
S. Allen Street (Verizon Building) only.
Temporarily lease 224 S. Allen Street to current or alternative tenants; direct
the RDA to undertake phased redevelopment of both 224 S. Allen Street and
Allen Street parking lot.

Mr. Fountaine stated the discussion schedule called for all four of the proposers to be invited to
the March 16 Council meeting to present a brief overview of their proposal.
Next discussed: Roles of Agencies:
Borough Council (BC)
Consider consistency of proposals in the scope of financial and strategic
commitments.
Owner of the property, responsible for decision on intended actions.
Planning Commission (PC)
Consider consistency of proposals in scope of local and regional plans.
If the property were to be sold, provide a formal recommendation on the sale to
Borough Council as required by law.
Redevelopment Authority (RDA)
Consider ideas in the scope of Community & Economic Development Goals.
If the property was redeveloped, property transfer to the RDA who would
become responsible for the RFP and redevelopment site(s).
Timeline for the Review Process included:
Receive information on the site and proposals and approval to review the
schedule was on todays agenda.
Prepare a press release to request any additional community proposals.
The review proposals in conjunction with Council Work Sessions and give a 20
minute presentation of each proposal March
Council will discuss proposals sometime in April.
Council will make a decision sometime in May.
Planning Commission Members Comments were:
Mr. Dumas asked if the side door of the building could be accessible. Mr. Holmes stated it
would be hard to do that. They would have to rely on access through the Jeramar Building.
Mr. Roeckel asked how much space Discovery Space is using now. Mr. Fountaine stated they
are using about 4,000 square feet of exhibit space. Mr. Roeckel also stated, if the space was
gifted to Discovery Space, there should be some kind of provision, if they decide to move, so
that the Borough could reclaim the building.
Mr. Roeckel asked Mr. LeClear what the maximum size of the building could be. Mr. LeClear
stated it could be roughly 9 stories, with owner-occupied space and some commercial space.
Mr. Kalin noted, the Borough, as the current owners, should take advantage of what they would
like to see for this area. Mr. Kalin noted there is obviously a lot of interest in this site and he
would be interested in seeing if we can tailor it into something that the Borough would like to
see.

Mr. Eich asked if it is possible to have the Borough be the developer of the property and then
have the architect decide what they would want. Mr. Williams, Borough Solicitor, stated it could
be, but it would end up being cost prohibitive.
Mr. Kalin stated, when hearing the proposals, if would be interesting to hear what these groups
could bring to the table.
Mr. Eich asked when the parking study would be completed. He thought they needed to take
into consideration where the new parking garage(s) would be located. Mr. Fountaine stated the
actual document is available. Mr. Eich commented that the redevelopment of this site might
provide a stream of revenue through the RDA or some other opportunity.
Ms. Boniface noted she attended a seminar in Baltimore and heard a lot of great ideas that,
perhaps, our local developers dont know anything about. She felt they needed to consult with
outside groups.
Borough Council Members Comments were:
Ms. Lafer asked if the public/private partnership could maintain part of the property as public
and then the rest could be maintained by the Borough with Discovery Space only taking up part
of the space with some commercial and an incubator space making up the rest. She asked if
100 percent of the space must be bought by one entity. Mr. Fountaine stated, in this case, it is
owned by the municipality and the RDA would have to prepare a proposal. Mr. Fountaine stated
there is a lot of flexibility, currently, where the building is concerned.
Mr. Myers stated having Discovery Space near the library is a good idea. He also likes the idea
of including work-force housing and a PSU incubator. Mr. Myers asked if this is something that
the PC could work towards.
Mr. Williams stated the PC could put together a laundry list of what they want to see.
Ultimately, it would go to Council for approval.
Mr. Rosenberger asked if the RDA had enough flexibility to negotiate a good deal and Mr.
Williams stated yes.
Ms. Lafer stated, she felt, everyone was basically in agreement with the vision of a multi-use for
this building. She agreed with Ms. Boniface at looking outside the area for consultants.
Mr. Rosenberger asked what the current tax was on this property. Mr. Fountaine stated he
believes it is exempt. Mr. Rosenberger asked why it is currently tax exempt. Mr. Williams
stated it is tax exempt because the Borough owns it.
Mr. Rosenberger stated bringing the three groups together had been very helpful.
Mr. Fountaine stated there was a need to move forward on how they are going to handle this
proposal.

Redevelopment Authority Comments were:

Ms. Lawrence noted the bathrooms are not ADA accessible. She also noted that when you
make a change in use there are costs involved for those changes. She stated she felt it couldnt
just be a turn over. Ms. Lawrence stated they should be conscientious in each of these
proposals.
Dr. Haider, who is on Discovery Space Board, stated he was very interested in diversity and
noted they have an opportunity to contribute to art and culture. He also stated we also need to
look at the long-term costs.
Ms. Lenker, Chairwoman of the RDA, stated they needed to take their time with this proposal
and do it right.
This joint meeting ended at 12:57 p.m.
At this time, staff commenced with the Planning Commissions Regular Meeting.
Development Plan
Two Lot Subdivision of 625 North Allen Street, Sharon and Jeffery Hyde, owner, PennTerra,
Inc., Engineer
Staffs overview included:
This single lot is proposed to be subdivided into two lots.
The lot, as it exists today, is .61 acres.
This would create one lot with an existing house and allow for a vacant lot that
would permit a 1-family dwelling fronting Adams Avenue.
The house faces Allen Street.
The sub-division would be from Allen Street to August Alley.
There would be a 75 foot building for each lot.
The original lot was created when the land was in Ferguson Township.
It is a non-conforming property with a porch facing Allen Street.
It has a detached garage with the driveway closest to August Alley.
Toward the center is a paved area; both of these would be moved.
The owners, at a future date, would like to construct a new home.
The extent of the density is a 1-family dwelling with an apartment.
Commissioners comments were:
Mr. Eich asked if the trees listed on the proposal were still there. Ms. Messner
stated many along August Alley have been removed. Mr. Eich asked that these
changes be reflected on the updated proposal.
Ms. Boniface asked if staff had received any comments from the neighborhood
yet. Ms. Messner stated they received one comment so far.
Mr. Roeckel asked if this house had to meet any zoning criteria. Ms. Messner
stated it did concerning the lot, but not the setbacks.
Mr. Eich asked if there were any concerns about storm water and impervious
cover. Ms. Messner stated that for residential lots that are single-family lots,
they are to maintain the storm water on their lot.

Mr. Eich suggested access off August Alley be preferable.

Official Reports and Correspondence

Borough Council (BC): Mr. LeClear reported Council met last night and discussed the student
home licensing process. They also discussed beginning the Property Maintenance Code
(PMC). They also discussed having a meeting with a small interest group sometime in April.
Mr. Dumas congratulated Mr. Roeckel on his presentation of the Work Plan to Council.
Design Review Board (DRB): Ms. Messner reported the DRB met today and chose a Focus on
Appearance Award recipient which was given to 126 West Marylyn Avenue. They gave staff the
go ahead to print the updated Design Guideline. They also chose an Ingrid Holtzman award
recipient and the recipient was the Centre County Festival of Arts. This does have to be
approved by the Borough Manager.
Redevelopment Authority (RDA): Mr. LeClear reported the RDA met last week along with new
Real Estate Advisory Committee (REAC). He stated they are in the middle of purchasing their
first property. They will be looking at what opportunities are available. It has been an
opportunity to see what changes might need to be made.
Staff Updates: Staff reported the CRPA is having a Planning Education series webinar. The PC
was invited to attend.
This Thursday, staff will present the Collegiate Housing Overlay to CRPA.
Mr. LeClear thanked CNET for all their work regarding set up for todays meeting.
Adjournment
With no further business to discuss, on a motion by Mr. Dumas, this meeting was adjourned at
1:26 p.m.

Respectfully submitted by,

Denise L. Rhoads, Staff Assistant

Planning Commission Agenda

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Date: 3/19/2015

Bicycle Facilities

State College Borough

BicyclePA Route G

School District Property

Bicycle Facilities

Proposed Facility

Penn State Lands

Bike Lane
Bike Route

0.25

Municipal Boundary
Parks & Preserves

Municipal Open Space

Shared Use Path

0.125

State Game Lands

STATECO LLEG E BO
RO U G H

T
F
A
R
D

Centre Regional Planning Agency

2643 Gateway Drive
State College, PA 16801
814-231-3050
www.crcog.net

State College - Centre Region, PA

0.5 Miles

Planning Commission Agenda

March 26, 2015
Page 16 of 29

Centre Region Bicycle Plan Schedule

2014
Month

Sept Oct

2015

Nov Dec Jan

2/26/2015
2016

Feb Mar Apr May Jun

10

Jul

11

Aug Sep Oct

12

13

14

Nov Dec Jan

15

16

17

Feb Mar Apr

18

19

Task 1 Project Kick Off

Task 2 Develop Plan Goals and Objectives
Task 3 Collect Existing Data and Review League
of American Bicyclists Feedback Report
Task 4 Bicycle Demand and Awareness
Task 5 Conditions Assessment
Task 6 Bicycle Network Development
Task 7 Non-Infrastructure Strategies to Increase
Biking
Task 8 Implementation Plan
Task 9 Prepare Draft Bicycle Plan

DP

Task 10 Prepare Draft Final and Final Plan

FP

Task 11 Public Involvement and Outreach

Public Meeting 1

PM1

Public Meeting 2

PM2

TLU Meetings

TLU TLU

BAC Meetings

BAC

TLU TLU TLU TLU

BAC

TLU
BAC

TLU
BAC

TLU
BAC

Municipal Meetings
COG Meetings

COG

COG

COG

Public Meeting

Because of the academic calendar these months are not suitable for general public meetings

20

/26/2015

Planning Commission Agenda

March 26, 2015
Page 17 of 29

Planning Commission Agenda

March 26, 2015
Page 18 of 29

To provide input, go to: www.crcog.net/bikes.

Centre Region Bicycle Plan

1.

On average, how often do you bike?

Daily
A few times a week
A few times a month
A few times a year
Never

2.

How long have you been bicycling?

Less than 1 year
1-2 years
2-5 years
5-10 years
More than 10 years
I dont bike

3.

What type of cyclist do you consider yourself?

Strong and Fearless (I ride regardless of conditions.)
Enthused and Confident (I am comfortable riding on roads with wide shoulders, bicycle lanes, and easy to navigate intersections.)
Interested but Concerned (I am only comfortable riding on bicycle paths away from motor vehicles.)
No Way, No How (I have no interest in riding bicycles.) SKIP TO QUESTION 10

4.

During which seasons do you ride a bike? (Please check all that apply.)
Spring
Summer
Fall
Winter

Centre Region Bicycle Plan Public Input Tool March 2015

Planning Commission Agenda

March 26, 2015
Page 19 of 29

To provide input, go to: www.crcog.net/bikes.

5.

Why do you bike? (Please check all that apply.)

Commute to work
Commute to school
Shopping/Errands
Fitness
Recreation
Social activities
Environmental reasons
Other (please specify)

6.

How far is your typical ride?

Less than 2 miles
2-5 miles
5-10 miles
More than 10 miles

7.

Do you ever ride your bike to a bus stop and take the bus?
Yes I park my bike at or near the bus stop.
Yes I use the bike rack on the bus.
No

8.

If you live in an apartment building, where do you park your bike?

Not applicable (Skip to question 10)
At a bike rack
In a storage unit
Inside my apartment
On the front porch
Other (please specify)

Centre Region Bicycle Plan Public Input Tool March 2015

Planning Commission Agenda

March 26, 2015
Page 20 of 29

To provide input, go to: www.crcog.net/bikes.

9.

If you live in an apartment but do not park your bike at a bike rack, why not? (Please check all that apply.)
No bike rack is available
Bike rack is too far away
Bike rack is full
Style of bike rack
Potential damage to bike
Security
Weather
Other (please specify)

10. What discourages you from biking? (Please check all that apply.)
Lack of off-street bike paths

Too many hills

Lack of on-street bike lanes

Destinations are too far away

Inadequate shoulder widths/narrow lanes

Lack of time

Bike facilities/roads are in poor condition

Weather

Inadequate lighting

Motorist behavior

Lack of bike parking at residence

Bicyclist behavior

Lack of bike parking at destination(s)

I have too many things to carry

Lack of showers and/or lockers at workplace

I travel with small children

Too much traffic

Other (please specify)

11. Please select your preference for the following bicycle facilities, whether or not you bike.
Love It

Like It

Neutral

Dislike It

Hate It

Paved Bike Path (separated from streets and vehicle traffic)

Natural Surface Trail (separated from streets and vehicle traffic)
Bicycle Lane (separated by roadway striping)
Bicycle Route (shared roadway designated with signs only)
On-street Shared Lane (designated by Shared Lane markings)

Centre Region Bicycle Plan Public Input Tool March 2015

Planning Commission Agenda

March 26, 2015
Page 21 of 29

To provide input, go to: www.crcog.net/bikes.

12. Would the following improvements encourage you to bike more often, or begin biking if you do not bike now? (Please rate each improvement by the likelihood of
influencing your decision to bike.)
Definitely

Somewhat

Neutral

Not Likely

Not at All

A more connected system (by connecting fragmented bicycle lanes and paths)
More bike lanes (separate lanes for bikes on streets)
More bike routes
More paved bike paths (off-street)
Wider outside/curbside lanes on major streets (easier to share lanes with cars)
Improved bicycle detection at intersections
More bicycle parking at major destinations and public facilities
Increased maintenance (sweeping/repairs to bike lanes, routes, and paths; landscape trimming; etc.)
Other (please specify)

13. Where are additional bicycle facilities (bike paths, bike lanes, bike routes, bike racks, etc.) needed? (Please provide specific location and description.)
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.

14. Please rate the potential effectiveness of each activity for improving bicycling conditions in the Centre Region.
Very Effective

Effective

Ineffective

Very Ineffective

Education programs that improve motorists awareness of cyclists

Education programs that teach adults basic road bicycling skills
Education programs that teach children basic bicycling skills
Education programs that teach residents and businesses the benefits of bicycling
Programs that encourage children to bike to school
Programs that encourage residents to bike (Bike-to-Work Week, community bike events, incentive programs, etc.)

Centre Region Bicycle Plan Public Input Tool March 2015

Planning Commission Agenda

March 26, 2015
Page 22 of 29

To provide input, go to: www.crcog.net/bikes.

Very Effective

Effective

Ineffective

Very Ineffective

Public awareness campaign focused on state laws that apply to bicyclists and motorists
Greater police enforcement of motor vehicle, bicycle, and pedestrian laws
One-stop bicycle information website
Bicycle maps and guides

15. What do you think motorists need to be educated about?

16. What do you think bicyclists need to be educated about?

17. Other comments, suggestions, ideas:

18. What is your age?

Under 18 years
18-24 years
25-34 years
35-59 years
Over 60 years
Prefer not to answer

Centre Region Bicycle Plan Public Input Tool March 2015

Planning Commission Agenda

March 26, 2015
Page 23 of 29

To provide input, go to: www.crcog.net/bikes.

19. What is your gender?
Female
Male
Other
Prefer not to answer

20. In which municipality do you live?

College Township
Ferguson Township
Halfmoon Township
Harris Township
Patton Township
Borough of State College
Not sure
Other (please specify)

21. Nearest street intersection:

22. What is your Zip Code?

23. OPTIONAL: Please provide your e-mail address if you would like to stay up to date with the planning process for the Centre Region Bicycle Plan, including
upcoming events and activities.
E-mail Address:

Thank you for participating! Results will be posted at www.crcog.net/bikes after all responses have been collected.

Centre Region Bicycle Plan Public Input Tool March 2015

Planning Commission Agenda

March 26, 2015
Page 24 of 29

State College Borough Bicycle Facilities: Existing and Proposed

MUNICIPALITY

TYPE

NAME

3-19-15
DESCRIPTION

MILES

State College

Bike Lane

Whitehall Rd Bike Lanes

Along Whitehall Rd from State College line to Ferguson Twp line

0.51

State College

Bike Lane

Whitehall Rd Bike Lanes

Along Whitehall Rd from College Twp line to Ferguson Twp line

0.66

State College

Bike Lane

Garner St Bike Lanes

Along Garner St from East Foster Ave to Easterly Pkwy

0.50

State College

Bike Lane

Waupelani Dr Bike Lanes

Along Waupelani Dr from Atherton St to Whitehall Rd

0.99

State College

Bike Lane

West Foster Ave Bike Lanes

Along West Foster Ave from Atherton St to South Fraser St

0.16

State College

Bike Lane

South Sparks St Bike Lane

Traveling southbound along South Sparks St from West Foster

Ave to West Nittany Ave

0.08

State College

Bike Lane

South Sparks St Bike Lane

Traveling northbound along South Sparks St from Westerly Pkwy

to West Prospect Ave

0.20

State College

Bike Lane

Allen St Bike Lanes

Traveling southbound along Allen St from West Nittany to West

Hamilton Ave

0.21

State College

Bike Lane

Allen St Bike Lanes

Traveling southbound along Allen St from West Irvin Ave to

Westerly Pkwy

0.21

State College

Bike Lane

Allen St Bike Lanes

Traveling northbound from along Allen St from Westerly Pkwy to

East Foster Ave

0.48

State College

Bike Route

Westerly Pkwy Bike Route

Along Westerly Pkwy from Allen St to Ferguson Twp line

1.18

State College

Bike Route

Garner St Bike Route

Along Garner St from Bradley Ave to Easterly Pkwy

0.54

State College

Bike Route

McKee St Bike Route

Along McKee St from Park Ave to Sunset Park

0.41

Planning Commission Agenda

March 26, 2015
Page 25 of 29

State College Borough Bicycle Facilities: Existing and Proposed

MUNICIPALITY

TYPE

NAME

3-19-15
DESCRIPTION

MILES

State College

Bike Route

East Foster Ave Bike Route

Along East Foster Ave from Sidney Friedman Parklet to Garner St

0.39

State College

Bike Route

West Foster Ave Bike Route

Along West Foster Ave from Sparks St to Atherton St

0.27

State College

Bike Route

Sparks St Bike Route

Along Sparks St from Westerly Pkwy to Railroad Ave

0.72

State College

Bike Route

Gill St Bike Route

Along Gill St from Orchard Park Bikeway to Railroad Ave

0.66

State College

Bike Route

West Prospect Bike Route

Along West Prospect Ave from Sparks St to Gill St

0.09

State College

Bike Route

Allen St Bike Route

Along Allen St from Atherton St to Easterly Pkwy

0.20

State College

Bike Route

Allen St Bike Route

Along Allen St from West Irvin Ave to West Hamilton Ave

0.07

State College

Bike Route

Easterly Pkwy Bike Route

Along Easterly Pkwy from Allen St to Garner St

0.61

State College

Shared Use Path

Curtin Rd Path

Along Curtin Rd from Burrowes St to Atherton St

0.14

State College

Shared Use Path

McKee St to Curtin Rd Path

Path from the McKee St/Park Ave intersection to Curtin Rd

0.19

State College

Shared Use Path

Sidney Friedman Parklet Path

Path through the Sidney Friedman Parklet that connects South

Fraser St and D Alley

0.07

State College

Shared Use Path

Clinton Ave/McKee St
Bikeway

Connection from McKee St to the Ferguson Twp line

0.01

State College

Shared Use Path

South University Dr Path

Along University Dr from South Atherton St to an off street

connection to Garner St

0.17

State College

Shared Use Path

Orchard Park Bikeway

From Blue Course Dr through Orchard Park and along State

College Area School District property to Gill St

1.06

Planning Commission Agenda

March 26, 2015
Page 26 of 29

State College Borough Bicycle Facilities: Existing and Proposed

MUNICIPALITY

TYPE

NAME

3-19-15
DESCRIPTION

MILES

State College

Shared Use Path

University Dr Bikeway

Along University Dr from East College Ave to College Twp line

0.30

State College

Shared Use Path

South Atherton St Bikeway

Along South Atherton St from University Dr to College Twp line

0.18

State College

Shared Use Path

Blue and White Trail

Section of the trail from Ferguson Twp line to West Campus Dr

0.03

State College

Shared Use Path

Tudek/Circleville Bikeway

Section of the trail near Hillcrest Ave to the Ferguson Twp line

0.12

State College

Shared Use Path

Tudek/Circleville Bikeway

Section of the bikeway located on Radio Park Elementary School

property

0.14

State College

Shared Use Path

Blue and White Trail

Along North Atherton St from Curtin Rd to West Park Ave and

along West Park Ave from North Atherton St to the Ferguson
Twp line

0.70

State College

Proposed Facility

SC1 West End Bike

Improvements

Connection from Gill St to West Campus - PennDOT Multimodal

Project

0.08

State College

Proposed Facility

SC2 Blue Course Dr Path

Along Blue Course Dr from Bayberry to Whitehall Rd - Potential

Capital Improvement Project

0.34

Planning Commission Agenda

March 26, 2015
Page 27 of 29

STATE COLLEGE BOROUGH

interoffice

MEMORANDUM
to:
from:
subject:
date:

PLANNING DEPARTMENT

State College Planning Commission

Planning Staff
Considerations for the 2016-2020 Capital Improvements Program
March 26, 2015

The Planning Commission has been requested to review the 2015-2019 Capital Improvements
Plan(CIP) and provide comments on project revisions could be included in the 2016-2020 plan.
The 2015-2019 CIP is available at: http://www.statecollegepa.us/DocumentCenter/View/9395.
Staff has highlighted several projects below that the Planning Commission may be interested in.
Commissioners are asked to review the following projects and prepare comments for staff for
the meeting on March 26, 2015. These comments will be taken under advisement as Borough
staff works to prepare the draft 2016-2020 CIP.
2015-2019 CIP Projects:
1. OP053a West End Transportation Infrastructure: This project calls for a pedestrian
and bike connection at either N Sparks or N Gill Street to connect to West Campus. This
is proposed for construction in 2016, and the Borough as received a grant from
PennDOT to complete this project. At this time, staff believes this project is on schedule.
The project also calls for implementation of streetscape enhancements along the north
side of College Avenue from Atherton to Buckhout in 2017. Staff is working with
Ferguson Township staff to determine a time frame for W College Avenue improvements
to see if there is an opportunity for collaboration on grants or construction cycles.

2. OP053d West End Redevelopment Projects: This project calls for a catalyst
redevelopment project through a public private partnership to be designed in 2016 and
implemented in 2017. Due to current discussions regarding the former Verizon Building,
several options are available for updating this project. Anticipating a decision by Council
to pursue a redevelopment strategy for the Allen Street corridor, staff is recommending
the following changes to this item. Should the Borough decide to sell or lease the former
Verizon building, the changes below are not applicable.
a. OP053d Redevelopment Projects: recommended change of name to incorporate
all redevelopment activities
b. Include funding for design & engineering, and construction activities, for a
phased redevelopment strategy for the 200 block of S. Allen St. in 2016 and
2017.
c. Move funding for design and construction of a West End catalyst project to 20192020.

Planning Commission Agenda

March 26, 2015
Page 28 of 29

3. OP142 Downtown Infrastructure Improvements: This project calls for catalyst projects
from the 2013 Downtown Master Plan to be designed and implemented over the next
five years. Over the next year, staff will be coordinating a phased approach for
implementing these changes, taking into consideration both public and private
construction activities, and routine maintenance. This comprehensive strategy will better
phase the following list of projects, and work to vet the schedule with the Downtown
businesses. In order to allow appropriate timing for completing this phasing plan and
funding schedule, staff will likely update this project to include two years, 2017-2018,
with major improvements scheduled as a placeholder until a more accurate plan is
prepared.
Projects to coordinate with this updated schedule include:
OP053a: West End Transportation Infrastructure
OP053d: Redevelopment Projects
PF152: Pugh Garage Replacement
PF137: Fraser Garage Maintenance/MLK Plaza Upgrades/Fraser St Plaza
ST002: Street Resurfacing
ST021: CBD Streetlights
ST022: Intersection Safety Improvements

4. ST021 Central Business District Streetlights: This includes the installation of

handicap ramps and replacement street lights throughout downtown each year.
5. PF137 Fraser Garage Updates/MLK Plaza Upgrades/Fraser Plaza Construction:
This project includes the completion of design and construction documents for the open
space at the northeast corner of Beaver Avenue and Fraser Street in 2016. It also
includes necessary upgrades to the current MLK Plaza, including the replacement of
brick pavers and removal of a concrete canopy attached to the Fraser Street parking
deck. Updates to the elevators and other structural elements of the Fraser Street
parking deck are also scheduled.
6. PF152 Pugh Garage Replacement: This project includes the purchase of land, design
and construction of a new parking garage in Downtown, with funding originally set for
2017. Due to unanticipated delays in the Boroughs parking study, and potential
strategies for alternatives, this project may be modified in the 2016-2020 CIP.
7. OP254 Zoning Ordinance Rewrite: The purpose of this project is to prepare a new
Zoning Ordinance for the Borough in order to bring up-to-date the regulations and
remove inconsistencies. The plan calls for the funding of this project in 2016. The
Borough hopes to receive a grant to offset the cost of the project. Staff has increased the
General Fund request for this project due to research on the cost of similar projects in
other communities.

Planning Commission Agenda

March 26, 2015
Page 29 of 29

Stormwater Management Issues in

the Spring Creek Watershed
Thursday, May 21 2015
8:00 AM to 4:00 PM
at the
Centre County/Penn State
Visitor Center Auditorium
800 East Park Ave, State College, PA
Free public seminar sponsored by the
Penn State Office of Physical Plant
Seminar Topics:

Introduction to stormwater and how local stormwater

programs work together Scott Brown, NTM Engineering
Flooding in State College, why it happens, and how do we
fix it Larry Fennessey, PSU
The local MS4 programs Amy Kerner, State College
Borough
The great things in State College that protect stormwater
Katie Ombalski, Clearwater Conservancy
Green Infrastructure and its applications in State College
Katie Blansett, PHRC
Understanding erosion control, what it can and cant do
Don Franson, Harris Township
Protecting Groundwater David Yoxtheimer, Penn State
Marcellus Center for Outreach and Research
Understanding thermal and water quality impacts to cold
water streams Bob Carline, USGS retired

To reserve your spot go to:

http://sustainability.psu.edu/stormwater
or call (814) 863-3345
RSVP required by May 8th, 2015
6 PDHs available and lunch provided
Registration limited to 120