1A, Cty Road E Bridge Update - Laserfiche WebLink

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5/15/2009 Page 2 Mn/DOT has indicated that they would consider modifications to the existing bridge deck. The existing bridge width from parapet to parapet is 35 feet. With two 12' lanes, a 4' offset to the parapet on the south side, and a 2' offset to the raised sidewalk, a 5' walk could be constructed along the north side. These offsets are minimum standards that the Bridge Office would require. This new cross-section would require an alignment shift on the bridge and approach modifications. Mn/DOT has agreed to perform the structural analysis for the changed loading on the beams if the City Council decides to proceed with this alternative. In order to use State Aid funds, the proposed improvements must meet standard design guidelines. The standard width of a sidewalk is 6 feet, with two feet of clearance on either side; the proposed sidewalk is 5 feet, with two foot clearance from the westbound lane, and no clearance to the northern parapet. Staff is currently in contact with Mn/DOT State Aid to determine whether a variance could be requested for this configuration that would allow for the use of State Aid funds. An update will be provided to the City Council once staffhas received a response. This alternative would not meet guidelines for federal funds. Alternative 2: Construction of a standalone shared-use pathway bridge north of the existing bridge The City Council may choose to consider this alternative if structural analysis shows that Option 1 is not feasible, or if the City Council considers alternative 1 to be inadequate. This bridge would be constructed north of the existing bridge; the final location would be coordinated with Mn/DOT to accommodate a future wider bridge at CR E. Trail connections would also be constructed to tie the pedestrian bridge I into the existing sidewalk to the east and shoulder to the west. The Metropolitan Council has announced the 2009 solicitation for federal transportation project funding. Pathway projects are eligible under the Transportation Enhancements (TE) category. The funding is available for federal fiscal years 2013 and 2014. Applications are due June 15, 2009; however, the application review process will take six months. The Transportation Advisory Board will select projects for the 2011-2014 TIP in January or February, 2010. The federal funding requires a 20% local match; engineering fees are not an eligible cost. This project would be eligible for State Aid funds. CONCLUSION In light of the change in scope of this project, staffhas asked the consultants to revise their proposals to include these two alternatives. Staffwill present the proposals to the City Council at their May 26, 2009 meeting. Staff is requesting questions and comments from the City Council regarding the alternatives for the CR E bridge. Staff is also requesting feedback on whether a 5-foot sidewalk is acceptable. If the City Council chooses to apply for federal funding for Alternative 2, the selected consultant would complete the application as part of their scope.