07-21-1998 Regular Meeting and Public Hearing of the La Porte Planning and Zoning Commission

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• • Responses -2- August 11, 1998 Road/Wharton Weems Blvd., both to be 4-lane roadways. As such, they would be classified as a Secondary Arterial and Primary Arterial, respectively, each capable of carrying 18-25,000 vehicles per day. Based on our ezperience, truck traffic of the magnitude indicated, or for that matter, the same ratio spread over the entire project would have little effect on the overall carrying capacity. This is supported by the limited service area between the railroad and S.H. 146 and the relative low intensity of development anticipated. ~ Rail Traffic Generation: The applicant has retained the services of two rail consultants. Both have expressed to the Commission the benefits of the proposed development on rail efficiency in the area and reduced conflicts at Fairmont Parkway. Jerry Rowell of Frontier Logistics, the most recent consultant and veteran rail freight administrator (S.P. RR.), was recently quoted in the Bayshore Sun that the proposed project will "actually decrease rail traffic on Fairmont Parkway". However, both have also alluded to the likelihood of continued increase in rail usage in the area, even without the proposed project, due to the plans of the Port of Houston. This was confirmed by The Sun and with regard to the subject project, concluded that "the point is moot", rail and vehicular traffic will increase and "require that Fairmont Parkway overpass (be built), anyway". This, in itself, as implicated in the article, will be the framework for future efforts to capture political interest and public funding for this important regional project. D Driveway Access: We agree that driveway access can be handled through covenants and architectural controls. The developer will establish a Traffic Control Plan for the project that will include conditions and design standards compatible with those of both the City and TxDOT. ~ Fairmont Parkway: The applicant has expressed on numerous occasions a willingness to work with the City and the other public and private sector interests to implement early construction of a grade separation at Fairmont Parkway. Recent developments in growth and traffic demand have produced opportunities to explore, heretofore unavailable to the community. ~ Utilities: Utility infrastructure within the area is limited. The developer recognizes the need for working with the City to implement a program to obtain area-wide water and sanitary sewer service within current policy. Project engineers are aware of this and are awaiting preliminary approval to begin detailed