CIP FY2017-2026 Memo — File 202553

Honorable Members of the Board of Aldermen: Please find attached the complete list of capital projects included in the 2017- 2026 Capital Investment Plan (CIP) for your review. To assist you in understanding this document, we have outlined below the definitions of the project categories, an explanation of the difference between this CIP and prior versions, and some important contextual points to keep in mind during your review. Definitions of project categories Critical projects are those required to fulfill SomerVision and the USQ Neighborhood Plan. These projects are a prerequisite for attracting outside investments in the transformative district in part because they unlock future revenue that would otherwise go untapped. Subsurface utilities, streetscape, a relocation of the existing public safety building, and the City’s portion of the GLX investment are all included in this category. Recurring projects are investments the City has made and will continue making to maintain existing assets - our vehicle fleet, tree canopy, streets and buildings, for example. These are considered recurring because they are borrowed for on a regular basis, and in any modelled projection the BOA will be asked to make these appropriations so that the City can continue to provide core services. Underway projects are currently ongoing and have already been authorized, in full or in part, by the BOA but not yet completed. Lincoln Park, Nunziato field and stormwater storage, the Winter Hill schoolyard, and the West Branch Library are in this category. Unscheduled projects are community priorities and identified needs or liabilities that currently have no assigned timetable. These projects are important, but are ultimately discretionary. These projects have been put forth by the community, the BOA, or the administration. Key difference from previous CIPs In prior versions of the CIP the unscheduled projects were given their own timeline with anticipated start dates and projected costs. In the current version of the CIP, all unscheduled projects are listed with planning estimates but no timetable. It is the intent of the administration to discuss these investments with the BOA and the community as budgetary capacity allows over the next decade. Through the vision of Somerville residents and a CIP Advisory Committee, unscheduled projects will be chosen annually to come before the BOA based off the City’s financial outlook. Contextual notes It should be noted that the many of the estimates in this CIP are planning estimates only. Because many of these estimates are for unscheduled projects, we do not have an actual project design on which we can base a cost estimate.

Also, this CIP does not include any of the mitigation strategies available to the City. Developer contributions, financing tools (such as a DIF), the sale of USQ assets, additional grants, and public-private partnerships could enable the City to reduce this bottom line. As always, please feel free to call, text or email me if you have any questions or concerns. Sincerely, Annie Connor Legislative Liaison Mayor’s Office City of Somerville 93 Highland Avenue Somerville, MA 02143 aconnor@somervillema.gov