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ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION - MARCH 16, 2009 6 explore the option that in a hundred year storm, the trail will be impassable until the waters recede. City Engineer Bloom stated she will value engineer different options for the culvert. The sizing is a Rice Creek Watershed requirement so that is not something that will change. Mayor Harpstead stated that this is a major connection between other trail systems and the City should proceed. He would also like to see the trails done well so they stand the test of time. There was some discussion on reducing the trail width to eight feet as a cost-saving measure. City Engineer Bloom explained that the City received a $175,000 grant for this project. If the trail width is reduced, the amount of the grant could be reduced. But she offered to investigate this possibility. Councilmember Holmes asked if the crosswalk signal could be eliminated. Recreation Manager Olson explained that the grant that was approved included the signal and the crossing guards. The only change she did get Mn/DOT approval on is the elimination of one of the crosswalks for improved safety. The grant was approved based on the proposal submitted so the City cannot now go in and start making changes. Councilmember Holden commented that she does not want to spend $275,000 to get a $175,000 grant. Councilmember Grant questioned if the retaining wall can be built by our City crew. City Engineer Bloom will investigate that option. Councilmember Holmes commented that this project is now way over budget and unless costs come down she would not be in favor of proceeding. Councilmember McClung stated he is in support of moving forward with this project, but he is concerned about costs. He would like us to work with Ramsey County to get a cost-sharing commitment for the culvert, even if the City has to front the money for a period of time until Ramsey County includes this in their budget to then reimburse the City.