09-26-11-R Draft Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

ARDEN HILLS REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETNG—SEPTEMBER 26, 2011 10 Public Works Director Maurer explained that the first condition deals exclusively with not closing Highway 96 while the construction is being done on the Lexington Avenue Bridge. In addition, the County Road E Bridge is not programmed until 2015 by which time the I-694 project, Lexington Avenue Bridge, and US 10/Highway 96 would be completed. Councilmember Holmes stated there has been some concern about the safety and slope of the concrete barrier referred to in condition three and vegetation in the area. Public Works Director Maurer stated he has discussed these issues with Ramsey County. He explained the final design for this project has not yet been completed. He did not have any problem requesting vegetation as long as it does not impede snow storage. As far as the concrete barrier, that is being installed as a safety feature and the City requested an increased height for sound and visual blockage. Mayor Grant stated the second bullet should read "to determine if a different length noise wall and/or a different height noise wall". Councilmember Holden expressed concern about the speed limit on Highway 10 and asked if the City can request it be lowered. Public Works Director Maurer explained that in the State of Minnesota the only agency that can set a speed limit is MnDOT. The City could ask Ramsey County to request that MnDOT do a speed study on Highway 10. He also suggested that any speed study be done after the • improvements have been completed. Councilmember Holden questioned if there is anything the City can do during the construction period to reduce accidents. Public Works Director Maurer stated that for a period of time there will be fewer people using US 10 while Highway 96 is under construction. Joe Lux, Ramsey County Transportation Manager, explained that he and Jim Tolaas, Ramsey County Public Works Director, and Mr. Maurer have met and attended a MnDOT design meeting to discuss the conditions of Municipal Consent. He explained that MnDOT indicated they would like to let the US 10/Highway 96 project in January 2012 but now believe that to be impossible. The current plan is to do some preliminary work in 2012 and the closure in 2013. Councilmember Holden asked if this timing change will still meet the funding requirements. Mr. Lux explained they will have to go to the Met Council and request a sunset date extension. Councilmember Holmes asked if we have assurance from MnDOT that they will do Lexington Avenue in 2012. Mr. Lux responded that they are planning to move forward on Lexington in January 2012. He added that the downside is that the overlay planned for US 10 will be moved from 2013 to 2014. Mr. Lux explained that they also reviewed the noise issue with MnDOT; what will be forthcoming