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ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION — MARCH 21, 2011 8 3.0 Grants for Parks, Trails and Recreation and Overall Regional Trail Analysis Committee Chair Scott stated since the 2002 Parks and Open Space Plan was developed, the PTRC has maintained a list of potential trail segments for development and these priorities are reviewed annually. He explained they would like to discuss priorities with Council regarding grant opportunities as well as the importance of an overall regional trail analysis. He reviewed an Arden Hills Pathway map provided to the Council. Mayor Grant encouraged the PTRC to seek grants for all levels of trails as the Council is open to opportunities to stretch City funds. He pointed out that the Safe Routes to School trail is very well used and is a benefit to the community. Councilmember Holden suggested that the PTRC meet with our Public Works Director to identify costs related to each of their priority projects as the cost could be an important factor. Committee Member Kramlinger questioned if cheaper trails could be built to save costs; such as using crushed limestone instead of a paved surface. Parks & Recreation Manager Olson explained that when grant dollars are used, ADA compliance is mandatory and, therefore, the non -paved surface would not comply. Councilmember Tamble commented that the unfinished surfaces would be difficult to maintain in the winter. Mayor Grant thanked the PTRC members for their participation in the joint work session and the Council returned to their discussion on Agenda Item 2.D. 2.D I -694 / TH51 Interchange Project Public Works Director Maurer explained that according to MnDOT, there weren't enough noise reduction benefits to justify the cost of the noise wall but they have committed to covering $1,050,000 of the cost of the noise wall with the remaining $475,000 to be the City's responsibility. He explained that there must be at least a 5 decibel reduction per property which is then measured against the cost of the wall to determine if the cost is justifiable. Under the new Federal law, he explained, this wall would never be proposed because it does not meet the cost - effective criteria. Councilmember Holden questioned how the City would come up with the $475,000 balance. There was some discussion about assessments and how many homes would actually benefit from the noise wall. Public Works Director Maurer stated only 30 homes would actually benefit (per MnDOT funding policy) and as far as assessments, that would be difficult in this situation because the benefit of the noise wall varies from one property to the next.