04-06-22 PC Agenda Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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ARDEN HILLS PLANNING COMMISSION – December 8, 2021 4 He suggested these be restricted during school hours to keep traffic from crossing in front of the signal. Jake Bongard, Traffic Engineer with Bolton & Menk, indicated this was something that was discussed and he understood how important it was to keep people away from the crossing. He stated the difficulty was that when trying to control movements, this had to be done with raised surfaces, otherwise it becomes an enforcement issue. He noted signing could be looked at. He reported the other thing that was discussed was that it would be easier for people to use the east access to go east. His hope would be that people would attempt to avoid the crossing signal. Commissioner Weber commented the last time he saw this he recommended medians be installed. He stated signage would be another option. He then reviewed ADA requirements regarding curb ramps. He recommended the ramps be changed to one directional ramps. Mr. Bongard indicated this was something he could review. Commissioner Zimmerman suggested the area have runway lights in order to delineate the walkway for the pedestrians using the crosswalk. Planning Consultant Kansier reported there were street lights in this area. Commissioner Weber stated ground lighting may be difficult and wouldn’t work in the winter months when covered by snow and ice. He noted the crosswalk would be painted and illuminated by street lights. Chair Vijums asked if Commissioner Zimmerman was making a suggestion or would he like the lighting be made a condition for approval. Commissioner Zimmerman commented he would like this to be a suggestion that the applicant looks into further. Tyler Erdahl, Wold Architects and Engineers, believed the new light poles within the parking lot, along with the street lights would provide adequate light the site. He noted the striping would also be improved. Chair Vijums asked how 119 parking spaces were lost from the original plan. Planning Consultant Kansier stated these spots were lost due to the islands and drive aisles. Chair Vijums questioned if the Commission supported the applicant providing additional parking spaces if the landscaped islands were eliminated. Commissioner Wicklund commented he would like to hear from the applicant regarding this matter. He wanted to better understand if the school would appreciate having more parking spaces, or was the 591 parking spaces sufficient.