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ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL—NOVEMBER 12, 2013 2 Community Development Director Hutmacher stated that in collaboration with the St. Paul Chamber of Commerce, the City held an on-site master planning event at Land O'Lakes on Thursday, November 7, 2013. This was a pilot project designed to determine whether the City could reach a younger and more diverse demographic with targeted, on-site events. The twelve participants ranged in age from their 20's to early 30's. Comments received included the following: • Participants wanted to be able to walk to bars, restaurants, and entertainment venues from their homes, but acknowledged that cars will still be their primary mode of transportation. • Participants suggested that a transit center or park and ride should be included to provide transportation options. • Participants felt that professionals moving to the area and starting careers would be most interested in townhomes and condominiums, but young families would prefer single- family homes. • Participants mostly (but not unanimously) favored public open space over large private yards. Back yards should be just big enough to "throw a ball". • Participants wanted to minimize their time spent on household chores and maintenance — most preferred a home no larger than necessary and a homeowner's association to take care of mowing and shoveling. Community Development Director Hutmacher explained that when asked how to reach a younger demographic, attendees responded that events such as the one at Land O'Lakes are an innovative and effective way to reach their age group. Participation encourages them to seek additional opportunities to become involved. Attendees also suggested using social media tools such as Facebook, Instagram, and Linked-In. Councilmember Holden stated that she was encouraged by the feedback received from this demographic group and noted that it was consistent with what the City has previously heard. B. Transportation Update Public Works Director Maurer provided the Council with an update on the US 10 and Highway 96 road construction project. Photographs of the roadways and sound wall were reviewed with the Council. He indicated that MnDOT reported that all roadway movements would be open for use by the end of the day on Friday, November 15, 2013. It was noted that only one lane in each direction would be open along Highway 96. Mayor Grant requested that staff speak to MnDOT regarding Highway 96 as the City was led to believe that both lanes would be completed by this time. Councilmember Holden agreed with Mayor Grant. Public Works Director Maurer stated that Ramsey County would be holding an open house on Tuesday, November 19, 2013, from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. in the Marsden Room regarding concepts for the interchanges at Highway 96 and I-35W and County Road H and I-35W. He encouraged the public to attend.