Report Prepared by: John M. Bramble, Interim City Manager
Title
SUBJECT: Resolution Supporting the Extension of the Altamont Commuter Express from Stockton to Merced
REPORT IN BRIEF
Consider adopting a Resolution expressing the City Council's support of the Altamont Commuter Express (ACE) and the potential of extending the rail lines to the City of Merced by the year 2022.
RECOMMENDATION
City Council - Adopt Resolution 2016-05, a Resolution of the City Council of the City of Merced, California, supporting the extension of the Altamont Commuter Express to Merced.
Body
ALTERNATIVES
1. Approve as presented by staff; or,
2. Amend the proposed Resolution for adoption by the City Council; or,
3. Continue to a future City Council Meeting; or,
4. Deny.
AUTHORITY
The City Charter of Merced, Section 200.
CITY COUNCIL PRIORITIES
As it pertains to the City Council Priority for Economic Development.
DISCUSSION
The City Council has indicated an interest in expanding alternative modes of transportation into the Central San Joaquin Valley to improve the quality of transportation and for the purpose of improving the City's opportunities to attract additional economic development opportunities. The Altamont Commuter Express is preparing an environmental document to assess the potential for extending the rail line from its present terminus in the Central Valley to Merced.
The extension of the Altamont Commuter Express rail line to Merced will promote jobs, improve the air quality, reduce the reliance on automobile use for commuting, enhance public safety and will promote sustainable development in the community.
The City Council has indicated that the extension of the rail line by the Altamont Commuter Express will open additional opportunities for University and College students commutes and will provide a valuable alternative for business travel to and from Merced to the Bay Area.
IMPACT ON CITY RESOURCES
There are no an...
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