12-01-14-WS - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

ARDEN HILLS SPECIAL CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION—DECEMBER 1, 2014 4 Councilmember Holden asked if the recreational area to the south was reduced in size, if an additional pond could be added. Mr. Horn stated that this may be a possibility and his team would evaluate it and report back to the Council. Councilmember McClung suggested that this area be used for mitigation and that the water feature be extended into the center part of TCAAP as this would drive up the land value surrounding the water feature. He reported that he would not ever support a lighted ballfield in this area of TCAAP. Councilmember Holmes questioned who would pay for the water features and water amenities. Public Works Director Maurer reported that Kimley Horn could pull together some costs for the different water areas leading up to the feasibility study. He stated that some of the expenses may fall to the City while others would benefit the future developments and therefore fall to the County as landowner. Mayor Grant discussed the City's obligation to manage the stormwater on the site. He did not want to see the wetlands or storm ponds filled with cattails. Mr. Horn provided comment on the current design and alignment of the spine road from Highway 96 to County Road H. He reported that this roadway was approximately 1.5 miles in length. He discussed the thumb road design as well. Mayor Grant asked if the realignment of the spine road was being driven by the County or the City. Mr. Horn stated that this was being driven by the developer(Ramsey County). Councilmember Holden discussed the plans for the current corporate campus on the west side of the spine road,noting that a 20-acre site was also needed for retail development. Public Works Director Maurer commented that if the spine road was realigned, the site would have 20 acres of retail on the west side and that the land uses for the east side would need to be re- evaluated. Councilmember Holden questioned if the City had a real say in the location of the spine road. She discussed the importance of the Town Center area and suggested that this remain a priority within the development. She recommended that the land uses on the east side of the spine road remain intact. Councilmember Holmes asked what the speed limit would be for the spine road. Public Works Director Maurer anticipated that the speed limit would not be any more than 40 miles per hour and probably less.