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ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - JUNE 8, 1998 6 . border of the TCAAP property along Highway 96) will become more important. He stated that he hopes the County will work with the City to assure this is part of the project and part of the funding consideration. Mr. Tolaas stated they will very aggressively pursue the type of financial support available through Mn/DOT and try to make a good case to support it. Mayor Probst stated it has been his impression that the decision about what happens at I-35W is in a holding pattern pending resolution of the Highways 10/96 interchange. He asked if closure of this intersection will move the 1-35W upgrade along. Mr. Tolaas agreed it will move the 1- 35W intersection up in Mn/DOT's schedule and funding support. Mayor Probst noted the ISTEA revision resulted in a higher funding level and asked if this will help this project. Mr. Tolaas stated it makes more funding available and he hopes they will be able to tap into that greater availability. Councilmember Aplikowski stated she supports the Highway IO west access and believes it is important for North Heights Lutheran Church and also for other traffic in the area. She asked if the trail will remain on the south side and cross the bridge. Mr, Tolaas stated this is correct. He explained that their park staff has reviewed ail options and believe if there is no path on the south side it will result in pedestrians in the roadbed which presents a greater problem. He stated it is also integral to connect to the Long Lake Park area. . Mayor Probst agreed with the need to provide a safe crossing if the bridge is constructed. He noted with the exception of one ramp, it provides the grade separation desired for pedestrians and bicycles and the City will lobby the County and State to make the connection from the south rather than from the bridge. Councilmember Hicks stated the Council is considering concept approval to the plan tonight and not considering the various costs of all parties involved at this point. Mayor Probst stated this is also his interpretation; to endorsc a grade separation subject to resolving these conditions as outlined. The cost participation is covered on the Highway 10 bridge as well. Councilmember Hicks stated as the cost issues are discussed the Council may decide to abort some issues based on whether the City can afford it, such as the eastbound turn lane (which costs $250,000) if North Heights Lutheran Church determines to not become a financial partner. Mayor Probst stated another issue is the signals and whether Mn/DOT can be convinced there is enough traffic to warrant their participation in tbe cost. He asked how it will be determined if there is enough traffic to warrant the ofl" ramps and participation in those costs. Mr. Tolaas explained that they started with a conservative cost approach and with the understanding these ramps are a temporary issue. However, if a good case can be made that these access points are vital to community traffic, they will probably consider it. . Mayor Probst stated Mn/DOT does need the City's approval for the change in this intersection, Mr. Tolaas stated from a practical and political standpoint it is essential.