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. ~ . . Arden Hills Council 8 March 29, 1993 Councilmember Hicks asked O'Keefe what would likely occur if the City requested MNDOT re~onsider the signalization option, O'Keefe responded saying that the decision that a signalized intersection is not a viable option was made at a high level in MNDOT, and though there may be political and legal routes to pursue if the City so desires, he did not believe MNDOT would reconsider the signalization option. Councilmember Hicks asked if there are any other intersections under MNDOT's jurisdiction that are still open after accidents have occurred. Thompson stated that the decision to install signals is usually based on certain "warrants", and in the case of the Snelling/51 intersection, MNDOT decided that closure was the safest alternative, Councilmember Hicks stated that the option of a frontage road between Old Snelling and Lydia seems unreasonable and perhaps a frontage road from old Snelling to Glenhill would be a better idea, O'Keefe reiterated that a frontage road would have a high volume of traffic, safety concerns, and wetland concerns. Councilmember Malone asked if MNDOT has applied the same objective criteria in making a decision on the Snelling/51 matter as has been applied to comparable intersections in the State. O'Keefe and Thompson said they believe the usual criteria has been applied and they would be willing to provide examples if requested. Malone said he would like that assurance. Councilmember Malone asked, presuming the Snelling/51 intersection remains closed, if MNDOT would consider revisiting the matter if the traffic situation on County Road E or other alternate routes becomes intolerable. O'Keefe said reconsideration under those conditions is possible. Councilmember Probst expressed his opposition to the frontage road option based on his opinion that it would not be in the best interest of the City, He added that the signalized intersection option appeared to be the best option, but given that MNDOT's current position is that a signalized intersection is not a viable option, the next best available option appears to be to keep the intersection closed. He further stated that regardless of the action taken with respect to the Snelling/51 intersection, the County Road E/Snelling intersection definitely needs attention.