11-03-2025 JDA Agenda Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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Commissioner McGuire stated she appreciated how this action would move the project forward. Commissioner Weber expressed concern with the fact the proposed right of way would be 130 to 140 feet wide. He was of the opinion this width was exceptionally wide. Director Jagoe reported the 130 to 140 foot width was correct noting this aligns with the TRC and would allow for the trails, public sidewalks and roadway. Commissioner Weber indicated he would have liked to review the 60% design plans. He was of the opinion 100 feet would have been adequate for the trail, sidewalk and roadway right of way. He did not believe the County should be taking more than they needed, even if this was only 10 to 20 feet on each side of the roadway. He feared this was wasted space. Director Jagoe commented the standard the County was proposing for the right of way corridor meets the TRC standards. She indicated the tree plantings, utility installation, street lighting, sidewalks, right of way, and roadway does cover the proposed expanse. She anticipated the County could come back to the JDA with design plans for the roadway corridor. Commissioner Weber stated he would like to see the plans to ensure the JDA was not over dedicating. Chair Wicklund commented he would like to see the plans. Commissioner Monson explained the corridor has to be this wide because the TRC requires it. Director Jagoe indicated this was the case. Commissioner Monson reported if the corridor was to be narrowed, adjustments would have to be made to the TRC. Director Jagoe explained standards would have to be reviewed to see where adjustments could be made. Commissioner Monson stated a traffic study was completed for this project. Director Jagoe indicated a traffic study was completed through the AUAR process. Commissioner Monson inquired if the proposed roadway width was necessary for the traffic that would be flowing through this area. Director Jagoe explained she did not have the engineering background to answer this question. However, she understood the layers of amenities included along this corridor would require 130 to 140 feet of right of way. John Mazzitello, Deputy Director of Public Works for Ramsey County, introduced himself to the JDA. He explained he designed all of the construction projects for Ramsey County. He reported he was the project manager for the spine road. He stated the right of way was established based on the need of the infrastructure that needs to be built with the spine road that includes the roadway width, curb and gutter, storm drainage, boulevard, sidewalk, trails and lighting. In addition, to having space for a district energy or geothermal component.