7B, CP Rail Bridge Improvement Options

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PARKS, TRAILS AND RECREATION COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES April 21, 2009 Page 4 of9 B. CePe Rail Bridl!e and Trail Discussion Ms. Olson explained the PTRC recommended to Council they pursue the trail on the west side and that Council was in agreement. She noted further discussions have brought up the possibility ofa bike lane on both sides of the road versus an off road trail on one side. Ms. Olson indicated that the Council also questioned if the County would be willing to restripe the road to utilize the shoulder on the west to reduce the need for a boardwalk. Ms. Olson stated that she did meet with Ken Haider from Ramsey County Public Works to discuss options. The County stated that they are willing to consider restriping and also seem open to the possibility of widening the shoulder for a bike lane. Ms. Olson stated this roadway is not scheduled for maintenance any time soon and a shoulder widening project or restriping project minus a road project may not be cost effective for the City to complete. Ms. Olson asked if the PTRC was in favor of a bike lane or off road trail. She indicated the railroad was waiting on the design plans from Bolton & Menk. Chair Peck questioned when the design work was expected from Bolton & Menk. Ms. Olson stated this work has started and was anticipated to be completed in August. She noted the surveys have already been completed. Chair Peck indicated he was anxious to see if an underpass could be created on the west side removing the pillars to allow for greater passage while maintaining the bridges integrity. Ms. Olson explained that Bolten and Menk have a preliminary design that will be expanded and will utilize the survey and grading plans. She stated the design will be similar to the underpass in New Brighton. Ms. Olson asked for comments from the PTRC on the bike lane versus an off-road path. She stated both have pros and cons for this area while mixing with traffic and pedestrians. Ms. Olson indicated the County was open to the idea of paving the additional shoulder to provide a bike lane and could do this within their regular maintenance plan. However, there is no scheduled maintenance identified for this road. Chair Peck felt this was a great solution and would save the City a great deal of money. Chair Peck questioned if additional plans would come before the PTRC on this roadway. Ms. Olson stated that if the widening of the shoulders took place with a County maintenance project, it could be ten or more years before that takes place. However, it is possible that the County would be able to cost share for this project. Chair Peck indicated the underpass of the bridge caused much concern for bikers and was extremely dangerous at this time. Ms. Hilgers stated she would be in favor of a bike lane with extended shoulders. The Committee was in agreement to recommend extending the shoulders