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ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION—MARCH 21, 2011 10 if we go to the Appeals Board. MnDOT doesn't want this matter to go to Appeals any more than we do. Councilmember Holden questioned the plans for pedestrian traffic on TH 51. Public Works Director Maurer explained that MnDOT is opposed to building a detached _ pedestrian structure, but there would be room on the roadway for bicyclists. He added that MnDOT has committed to having as much room as currently exists on TH51 for commuter bicyclists. Councilmember Holmes commented that some residents have asked for higher railings on the overpass of the expressway. She also stated that the shoulder of the road on the west side should be the same width as the east side. Mayor Grant asked when MnDOT needs to finalize this project. Public Works Director Maurer stated that MnDOT is proceeding to bids now. Councilmember Holmes suggested that since there are new Council members, it would be a good idea to have Chris Chromy attend a Council meeting to review the benefits analysis of a $475,000 investment for the City in a noise wall. Councilmember Tamble asked if there have been any reports regarding the noise wall post construction. He stated the elevation in that area is much higher and he was concerned that the traffic noise would still be heard even with the noise wall in place. Public Works Director Maurer explained that the noise wall is proposed to be 20 feet high, measured from the ground level. He added that the ground elevations differ significantly over the length of the noise wall. Mayor Grant agreed that the Council should take another look at the reports on this project. Councilmember Holden moved, Mayor Grant seconded a motion to extend the meeting half an hour. Motion carried unanimously (5-0). Councilmember Werner commented that there are noise walls all along the interstate in other areas but none in Arden Hills. After some discussion, the consensus of the Council was to leave the noise wall in the proposal for now, sign off on the Lexington and County Road F proposal from the County and MnDOT, and leave the berming request in the proposal. Staff was directed to place the approval of the Municipal Consent Resolution on the March 281h agenda. Staff was also directed to ask Chris Chromy to attend the April 11 Council Work Session to review the noise reduction report. At that meeting the Council will discuss options for paying for the City's portion of the noise wall expense, and whether or not the noise wall will stay in the proposal. Mayor Grant asked if the Appeals Board scheduled for early April could be delayed.