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. Minutes of Regular Council Meeting, December 30 ~' '.. Page two Hicks asked if the 36' street cost would include widened areas for turn lanes. Answer: No - two traffic lanes, shoulder and walkway. Hicks noted that, depending on the number of turn lanes installed, it appears the installation of turn lanes would exceed the cost of a full 3-lane road. Van Wormer said about 900' of widening is needed for an adequate turn lane. Hansen asked if a two-lane road, with shoulders which would provide room for disabled vehicles and bicycles, would be more beneficial (similar to Lake Johanna Boulevard). Van Wormer said it is desirable to separate cars from bicycles for safety. Hansen reported that the Public Safety Committee listened to many residents wanting turn lanes on Hamline Avenue; now, they oppose the turn lanes; asked if a two-lane road is better. . Van Wormer explained that the 3-lane road is intended to provide for safe turns; putting the turn lane in the center reduces the cost. The installation of a "walk~light" was queried. Van Wormer explained that you must have a semaphore if you have a walk light; the semaphore would be at City's cost - could be either an "add-on" or a separate contract; noted that the biggest problem would be the danger of cars running the light, which is likely when drivers experience the light to be always green. Another suggestion was installation of a "walk-over" at the location of the pathway. Hansen said she does not see this as a viable alternative because her experience is that people don't use them. Hansen asked about the possibility of a semaphore at the 1-694 accesS ramp. Van Wormer said the State will want to look at the effect of the proposed changes before considering a semaphore. Hansen asked if the proposed changes still permit a left turn to southbound Highway 51 at County Road F. Van Wormer said this turn is still provided. Woodburn noted that the changes are considered to be an improvement, but are not considered to be "perfect". Hansen asked if closing the 1-694 access ramp is an option. Answer was this would remove Hamline from the MSA status. Hicks asked if the shoulder area proposed is adequate for right turns into Arden View Drive/Court. Van Wormer said it can be used; it is not the width ?f turn lane and not striped as a turn lane; shoulders are paved. Comments from the Floor Lorraine Manuel said she does not understand why Arden Hills should concern itself with providing a street for traffic coming into the area; feels a 3-lane street will reduce property value of homes along Hamline; feels a semaphore at Hamline and STH 96 is essential. Mark Peterson said his concern is for pedestrian safety; wants some provision for crossing Hamline Avenue safely. Van Wormer said a marked crossing area can be provided; noted it must be located where pedestrians can be seen by motorists; cautioned that drivers tend to get careless with little traffic at crossings; noted you have to rely on education of both motorists and pedestrians, and the ability to see. Kay LORaian said her driveway access is to Hamline Avenue; has changed her mind since the Public Hearing; now feels the 3-lanes, providing for turns, is the best alternative. . Steve Dorr said the proposed road has pluses and minuses; feels with 3-lanes it will turn into a freeway, with increased speed; asked if cars will pass slower traffic in the middle lane. Van Wormer said the turn lane will provide for uniform speed, which is safer; drivers do not have the tendency to pass if the speed is uniform. Center lane is for turns, not a passing lane. Jim Otto asked if we qualify for a semaphore at STH 96. Van Wormer explained that the State has warrants which must be met, and priorities and limited funds; reported the volumes are there, but this location is low on the State's priority list; estimated it may be two years before a light could be installed -------------