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158 <br /> participation by modest wealth communities and communities of color includes meaningful <br /> involvement not only in the decision to extend the line, but also the process of acquiring <br /> properties to effectuate that extension. To the extent practicable, GoTriangle should actively <br /> seek minority-owned firms in close proximity to the refinement area to work in the preliminary <br /> acquisition process. Having the title work, appraisals, and appraisal revisions completed by <br /> qualified firms in close proximity to the refinement area can have the effect of establishing trust <br /> in negotiations to fairly create the value of the residences and businesses, and may expeditiously <br /> reach offers of just compensation and acceptance. <br /> In addition, in order to meet the needs of those living and working in the acquisition <br /> zone, it will be helpful to coordinate with NCCU staff, local business owners, and public <br /> community space directors to set up an in-neighborhood negotiation and counseling site to assist <br /> those who may need to relocate. By seeking qualified residents and NCCU staff to provide <br /> counseling in the Federal Relocation Assistance Program process, and by increasing accessibility <br /> to affected residents through conducting negotiations from community sites, there is a greater <br /> likelihood of successful community engagement. <br /> Finally, whether by agreement of the current owners and tenants, or in the unfortunate <br /> event of settlement impasse that would necessitate property acquisition by eminent domain, we <br /> urge GoTriangle to not be limited by the relocation benefits allowable under the Uniform <br /> Relocation and Real Property Acquisition Policies Act. Seeking additional state, federal and <br /> local funding to provide payments above Uniform Act limits when necessary, will result in a <br /> more equitable acquisition process. <br /> Conclusion <br /> We are thrilled to continue to offer our support for the D-O LRT project as it progresses <br /> and adapts in response to feedback to incorporate additional ridership. As discussed above and <br /> in our previous comments, the D-O LRT project will provide communities in Durham and <br /> Orange counties with a reliable, environmentally-beneficial transportation investment. The <br /> NCCU Station Refinement will enhance and extend those benefits by increasing light rail <br /> ridership and connecting more communities to regional public transit. We look forward to <br /> continuing to work with GoTriangle in advancing this exciting transportation investment. <br /> Sincerely, <br /> mita <br /> Kym Hunter <br /> Staff Attorney <br /> Ramona McGee <br /> Associate Attorney <br /> 4 <br />