Municipal Design Standards Part 1 – General

1.01 ABOUT THESE STANDARDS:

These Design Standards are based on a standard developed by a team of private and public sector engineers for use in the design of most common public improvements, most development activities and utility work within the public right-of-way. The intent of the joint effort was to set a standard of design for the Metropolitan Area that is consistent, effective, efficient and protects public safety. The standards in this document have been modified to meet the needs of this community.

These standards are updated on a regular basis, so it is important to have the current edition. [This edition was updated July 2004.]

1.02 HOW TO USE THESE STANDARDS:

The standards contained in this document are organized into sections covering specific areas of design. It will often be necessary to use a number of sections for the design of a single project. For instance, the design of a street may require the use of standards on streets, sidewalks, storm sewers, traffic control signals and erosion control.

These standards are a guide for design, but not a substitute for good engineering. It is the obligation of the designer to use these standards responsibly and professionally to produce designs conforming with commonly accepted engineering practices and the Code of Professional Conduct. It will at times be desirable and/or necessary to vary from the standards in this document to produce a good product. When the need arises, please refer to the following section on variances.

It should also be noted that while one of the goals of this document was to develop uniform design standards for the metropolitan area, some standards continue to vary from community to community. Be sure to use the standard specifically drafted for the community in which you are working.

1.03 VARIANCES:

When it becomes necessary or desirable to vary from the standards presented in this document, a variance may be requested from the City Engineer. Such a request shall be made in writing and will include:

1. The standard to be varied.
2. The proposed variation.
3. Justification for the variance.

A written response will be given within seven business days of the request. A variance determination may be appealed to the City Council.

1.04 AMENDMENTS:

Amendments to these standards may be requested by writing the City Engineer with details and justification for an amendment. Engineers representing the municipalities will meet periodically to discuss proposed amendments and make recommendations to the City Council.

1.05 WHOM DO I CONTACT?:

Each community endorsing this document is listed below with a point of contact. There are references made throughout this document to the “City Engineer.” This is the engineer employed by the community, public official or engineering consultant retained by the community that functions as the local engineering authority.

Questions regarding these design standards should be directed to:

City of North Liberty
Code Official
319-626-5700

Shive-Hattery Inc.
2834 Northgate Drive
Iowa City, IA 52245
319-354-3040 (phone)
319-354-6921 (fax)