Title
a. Approve a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the County of Monterey (County) and Mountain Pacific Railroad, LLC (MPRR) for the railroad spur crossing across Dolan Road; and
b. Authorize the Director of Public Works, Facilities and Parks (PWFP) or designee to execute the Agreement.
Report
RECOMMENDATION:
It is recommended that the Board of Supervisors:
a. Approve a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the County of Monterey (County) and Mountain Pacific Railroad, LLC (MPRR) for the railroad spur crossing across Dolan Road; and
b. Authorize the Director of Public Works, Facilities and Parks (PWFP) or designee to execute the Agreement.
SUMMARY/DISCUSSION:
MPRR’s predecessor in interest operated a common carrier railroad along Dolan Road. In 1949, the County of Monterey (County) issued a permit to them to construct the railroad crossing across Dolan Road. PWFP staff in coordination with MPRR have developed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to establish an updated understanding governing the crossing (please see Attachment A). The MOU sets forth respective roles and responsibilities of both parties with respect to the rail crossing. In summary, MPRR is responsible for the crossing’s maintenance and operation, and the County will be responsible for operation and maintenance of the roadway approaches. MPRR will be solely responsible for the maintenance, testing, operation, and regulatory compliance of the crossing signal system. A set of signal upgrades and crossing arms is going to be installed by MPRR in the next 45 days; additionally, MPRR is considering further improvements for the crossing in the future (please see Attachment B).
OTHER AGENCY INVOLVEMENT:
The Office of the County Counsel-Risk Management has reviewed and approved the MOU as to form and indemnification provisions. MPRR concurs with this recommendation.
FINANCING:
Preparation of the MOU will not have a fiscal impact other than staff time, funded by Road Fund (Fund 1201, Department 320015, Appropriation PFP113). The Road Fund will continue to fund on-going maintenance responsibilities of Dolan Road, including the approaches to the crossing.
BOARD OF SUPERVISORS STRATEGIC PLAN GOALS:
This recommendation advances the Board’s Strategic Plan Goals by supporting mandated public safety activities that protect residents, infrastructure, and environmental resources. The proposed MOU will allow the motoring public to continue to use Dolan Road in a safe manner.
Well-Being and Quality of Life
X Sustainable Infrastructure for the Present and Future
X Safe and Resilient Communities
Diverse and Thriving Communities
Link to the Strategic Plan:
https://www.countyofmonterey.gov/home/showdocument?id=139569
Prepared by: Enrique Saavedra, PE, Chief of Public Works
Reviewed and Approved by: Randell Ishii, MS, PE, TE, PTOE, Director of Public Works, Facilities and Parks
Attachments:
Attachment A - Memorandum of Understanding with MPRR
Attachment B - Side Letter from MPRR