08-04-21 Planning Commission - Laserfiche WebLink

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Page 2 of 4 The Phase 2 traffic and pedestrian safety improvements were scheduled for construction in 2021 in order to allow the School District to acquire additional property from the State of Minnesota. This additional property would allow the relocation of the west entrance to the north parking lot to align with the drop-off/pick-up lot on the south side of Lake Valentine Road. Additional improvements include construction of a center median at the crosswalk, modifications to the south boundary of the north parking lot, and the construction of dedicated right turn lanes for westbound traffic accessing the east parking lot entrance and for the eastbound traffic accessing the drop- off/pick-up lot. 2. Overview of Request The Applicant has been working with the State of Minnesota for nearly two years on purchasing property, but has been unsuccessful in obtaining an easement or acquisition of land. The State has indicated they are at least another year out in considering the sale of this land. The Applicant believes this option is no longer feasible and is preparing an alternate design. The City Council reviewed this issue at their May 17, 2021, workshop. The Council noted the use of the State property is preferred; however, they understand there is no guarantee the school district will be able to purchase that land. Safety is the most important factor. The applicant will submit an application for the revised improvements to the City later this year. The current schedule in the approved PUD does not allow the School District sufficient time for completion in 2021 due to design changes for realignment on school district land. The Applicant is requesting the Planning Commission consider an extension of the deadline to 2022. The Applicant has provided the following as a proposed extended schedule: • October 2021 – City Submittal • January 2022 – Issue Construction Documents • June 2022 – Begin Construction • Mid-August 2022 – Substantial Completion This extension will allow further review and examination of vehicle counts and flows to develop a more-refined plan for the safety improvements. In addition, the School District plans to take into account the feedback of the City Council with regards to the Mounds View High School pick-up and drop-off operations before and after school. Application Review 1. 1355.04 Procedural Requirements for Specific Applications A public hearing for a PUD Amendment request is required before the request can be brought before the City Council. The applicant or its representative shall be given the opportunity to appear before the Planning Commission to answer questions or give explanations regarding the proposal. Upon completion of the public hearing and its study and consideration of the application, the Planning Commission shall submit its written report, containing its findings, conclusions, and recommendations as to the application, to the City Council. Under Section 1355.06 subd.4, an application for an amendment shall be administered in the same manner as required for a new application. Any structural alteration, enlargement or intensification change in site plan, or similar change not specially permitted, shall require City Council action and all procedures shall apply as if a new application were being requested; provided, however, that