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ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL—FEBRUARY 10, 2014 9 <br /> Assistant City Engineer Anderson stated that this item was tabled at the December 9, 2013, <br /> Council meeting. He reported that Marcus Thomas from Bolton & Menk, Inc. was present to <br /> make a brief presentation of the County Road E Feasibility Report and to answer Council <br /> questions. He commented that following the presentation of the County Road E Feasibility Report <br /> and questions/answers, the Council has three options for further action: <br /> 1. Direct staff to make changes to the Feasibility Report and present it for action on a future <br /> Council agenda <br /> 2. Adopt Resolution 2014-013 Receiving the Feasibility Report (with minor changes directed <br /> by the Council) and Authorizing the Preparation of Plans and Specifications in the matter <br /> of the County Road E (B-2 District) Improvements <br /> 3. Adopt Resolution 2014-013 Receiving the Feasibility Report (with no changes) and <br /> Authorizing the Preparation of Plans and Specifications in the matter of the County Road <br /> E (B-2 District) Improvements. <br /> Marcus Thomas, Bolton & Menk, presented the final feasibility report to Council for the County <br /> Road E improvements. It was noted that stakeholder meetings have been held regarding the <br /> implementation plan. The proposed improvements along County Road E have been reviewed <br /> with the Council. He reported that the five lane roadway would be maintained but the lane widths <br /> would be narrowed to increase the shoulder width. This would create a safety buffer for <br /> pedestrians while also creating space for bicycles. The project proposes to add another left turn <br /> lane at County Road E and Lexington which would add capacity to this turning movement. <br /> Mr. Thomas reviewed the signal improvements planned for the corridor along with the pedestrian <br /> lighting systems. The improvements planned for Connelly Street were discussed and would be <br /> completed as part of the County Road E improvements. The estimated expense for the <br /> improvements is $1,786,642. He reports that Mn/DOT would be responsible for $14,402, the <br /> County would cover $915,674 of the expenses and the City would need to fund $856,566 of the <br /> project. He discussed the City's assessment policy for this thoroughfare and suggested that <br /> $428,283 of the project costs be assessed. <br /> Councilmember Holmes stated that the lighting expense of $575,000 was too high. She <br /> suggested the City pursue additional lighting options through Xcel Energy. She recommended the <br /> report not be approved until this expense was decreased significantly. <br /> Assistant City Engineer Anderson commented that the lighting could be adjusted according to <br /> the Council's expectations, whether this be a specific dollar figure or an aesthetic appeal. <br /> Councilmember Holmes was in favor of safe and efficient lighting, but she does not see the need <br /> for an elaborate model light along this corridor. <br /> Mayor Grant requested further information on the lighting. <br /> Mr. Thomas reported that the public provided comment on the lighting along the corridor. He <br /> stated that he was offering flexibility with a lighting system that would be owned and operated by <br /> the City. The lights were proposed to be placed every 100 feet along the corridor at a height of 15 <br />