09-19-11 Draft Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION—SEPTEMBER 19, 2011 9 Councilmember Holden asked if the Vikings Stadium is built in Arden Hills, would there be any change in the US I O/Highway 96 interchange. Mr. Tolaas responded that there would be no change. He added that if the stadium legislation were adopted, there is an environmental study that has to be done as well as a construction project within the stadium area itself. He'stated he does not think all of that will happen so fast that it would influence the 1-694 or Highway 96 projects. He added that MnDOT works very hard to stage their projects carefully. He also stated that MnDOT sees Highway 96 as an important east/ west route that helps relieve I-694 pressures. He explained that it will be a difficult couple of years during these construction projects, but people will reroute and adjust to the changing traffic patterns. Mayor Grant stated that he doesn't think Arden Hills can dictate the state's plans but the City can do its due diligence. Public Works Director Maurer expressed concern about connectivity and how it will diminish the efficiency of the Public Works crew as most of the Public Works equipment is stored north of I-694 while most of their work is south of 1-694. Mr. Tolaas suggested that we ask to have Arden Hills and Ramsey County staff members meet to review the staging of these projects. He also stated that in response to concerns expressed by Arden Hills, MnDOT has moved up the work on the Lexington Avenue bridge deck to next spring. He encouraged the City to allow MnDOT to move that project back because of the connectivity issues with all the other projects going on. Joe Lux, Ramsey County Public Works, commented that MnDOT wanted to do the Lexington Avenue bridge deck this summer but that project was delayed for several reasons including the state shut down and because the project was more complex than anticipated. Public Works Director Maurer stated if the Council is concerned about the staging of these projects, Staff could create a condition of Municipal Consent requesting reasonable discussions with the County and MnDOT about staging and how we will be able to move around our own city. He added that we also need to consider what effect a firm condition would have on the funding of these projects, some of which have sunset dates. Councilmember Holden agreed with Mr. Maurer's suggestion that such a condition be added, but she would like to see it be a little stronger statement. Councilmember Holmes asked if any other roads will be closed during the 1-694 work. Public Works Director Maurer responded there will be some isolated closings during bridge demolition, but those will probably be in the evenings or over weekends. Mayor Grant stated that Council consensus is to direct Public Works Director Maurer to create a condition with a"little bit of teeth in it".