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ARTICLE 8 (o) Project: Grain Mill Alley Design Implementation CPA Category: Open Space Amount Requested: $127,838 Amount Recommended: $127,838 CPC Vote: (7-0) Project Description: The improvement of Grain Mill Alley, an historic pathway located between 1761 and 1775 Massachusetts Avenue, is a public space project that has been embraced by the Center Committee for over 10 years. The 2013 and 2015 Annual Town Meetings approved CPA funds for the schematic design phase of the project. The initial FY17 CPA request was for further design and construction funds for the space, including the connecting alleyway which is owned by the abutting property owners. The request was subsequently revised to exclude funding for the Mass. Ave. and alleyway portions of the project due to the rejection of a proposed legal agreement by the abutting property owners and pending Center Streetscape improvements. The revised proposal, Phase I of the larger project, focuses solely on development of the space adjacent to the Minuteman Bikeway. An alternative transportation node is envisioned for this Town-owned space. The plans call for the installation of bike racks, fixed seating, a bike repair station, information kiosk, plantings and a raised pedestrian crossing to improve safety. The Town maintains an easement for use of the connecting alleyway so although undeveloped, the public can continue to access the pathway connecting the alternative transportation node to Mass. Ave. Project Goals and Objectives: Develop an alternative transportation node to provide quality pedestrian and bicycle conditions; Enhance bicycle accommodations for those utilizing the Minuteman Bikeway; Improve safety for Center users by slowing traffic and improving the ground surface; and Create a sense of place and community through the addition of new seating and trees. Project Benefit: The bikeway-to-alley connection is used year-round by over 300,000 users. It is a critical passage that connects people from the parking lot and bikeway to the retail corridor, channeling much-needed foot traffic to local businesses. This project will ensure an enjoyable Center experience resulting in increased business activity for Center merchants and serve as a catalyst for reinvestment in Lexington Center. Funding Request: The total project cost is $132,838. The CPC recommends $127,838 in FY17. A $5,000 balance from the FY16 design allocation will be used to supplement the FY17 funds. 3