05-19-09 PTRC - Laserfiche WebLink

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PARKS, TRAILS AND RECREATION COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES April 21, 2009 Page 3 of 8 Discussion ensued regarding the elevation of Lake Valentine and the future of the park. Ms. Hilgers asked how much of a factor the cleaning of the outlets would have on the elevation of the lake. Ms. Olson will need to research that further but in discussions with the engineers, it was stated that this would not lower the elevation significantly. A discussion ensued on whether adding an outlet would be a possibility. The Committee suggested this issue be further discussed and planned after Rice Creek Watershed received the City's letter and can address the drainage issues. MOTION: Committee Member Messerly motioned that after again reviewing the drainage analysis report for Valentine Park that the Parks, Trails and Recreation Committee recommends that the City Council NOT pursue either park improvement option for Valentine Park until the flooding issue from Lake Valentine is addressed, seconded by Committee Member Petersen. The motion carried unanimously. B. C.P. Rail Bridge 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 of a 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 p to restri e 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 p Y 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.