OTHER-2024-029-Memorandum of Agreement for Co-Gen Rail Transformation Project

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1 15113 / a / Attachment 1 X Memorandum of Agreement for the Co -Gen Rail Transformation Project Purpose The purpose of this Memorandum of Agreement ( MOA ) is to formalize an agreement between the Towns of Chapel Hill and Carrboro, Orange County, the University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill, and the Southern Environmental Law Center (" the Parties "), and to collaboratively envision , plan , and jointly seek grant funding opportunities for the Co - Gen Rail Transformation Project . Background In late 2023, the Southern Environmental Law Center and UNC - Chapel Hill entered into contracts with Central Pines Regional Council to jointly cover the cost to facilitate the development of strong grant applications for long-term economic and transportation planning activities along the Co - Gen Rail Line . As entities with primary control of land use decisions, as well as ownership of numerous properties along the rail line, and/or organizations with an interest in the. Project, it is essential that " the Parties " are foundationally involved in the process . i Mutual Interest of the Parties The long- term transformation of the Co - Gen ( UNC ) rail line into a multi - modal greenway (a " rails to trails " project) can bring extensive opportunity and allow the Parties to advance collective f goals to promote housing, economic development, and connectivity across each jurisdiction and between residential , institutional, commercial , and rural areas of the county . By identifying the F potential benefits of the project today, the Parties can support a robust and timely transition away from coal at the Co - Gen plant and ensure alignment between local and countywide plans for development and connectivity and to achieve environmental goals that accompany the expansion of the county' s network of greenways . Responsibilities of the Parties Appoint one representative of the Party to serve on the Co - Gen Rail Transformation Project 's Policy Steering Committee, comprised of local and state elected officials, f u community groups) institutional partners, and others impacted by the project . Provide guidance and direction to the steering group and Central Pines Regional Council, as the grant writer, on submission of grant applications, grant cost - share allocations, and alignment or coordination with local priorities and funding applications . Designate local staff members to provide information or data related to project outcomes and assist with grant applications . As appropriate and/or when most competitive, serve as the lead applicant on grant applications for the project . Central Pines Regional Council can administer any grant where capacity is a concern . i Work collaboratively with the Co - Gen Rail Transformation Project's Policy Steering Committee to design and implement communications and messaging on the project, its purpose, and its progress . I' Appoint relevant staff to serve on a Technical Working Group to provide technical . guidance on implementation of an awarded grant application (s) . i