Laserfiche WebLink
ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION-OCTOBER 19 2009 <br /> IA. CP Rail and County Road E Update (cont.) <br /> Park and Recreation Manager Olson explained that the trail expense went up <br /> from $184,000 to $340,000. <br /> Councilmember Holden questioned if there would be any additional expenses for <br /> right of way, etc. <br /> Mr. Thomas stated the wetland delineation would be avoided and that there would <br /> be little to no encroachment on the wetland. He did not foresee any need to <br /> purchase any right-of-way. Mr. Thomas noted the only wild card left for this <br /> project would be the railroad and what they would allow. <br /> Mayor Harpstead questioned if Bolton & Menk would have final plans to bring to <br /> the railroad yet this year. <br /> Mr. Thomas stated they would have the plans complete. <br /> Mr. Jensen then provided an overview on County Road E discussing the project in <br /> detail. He explained that the current bridge provided poor pedestrian access and <br /> that the City had applied for grants in 2004 to assist with this concern. However, <br /> while working with MnDOT it was determined that the bridge does not meet the <br /> funding requirements for replacement. <br /> Mr. Jensen indicated the City has since reviewed alternatives for a separate <br /> pedestrian bridge on the north side of the existing bridge or for modifications to the <br /> existing structure to allow for a larger sidewalk. He reviewed the first alternative, <br /> modifying the bridge, to allow for two lanes of traffic and afive-foot sidewalk on <br /> the north side of the bridge. The second concept would provide a new pedestrian <br /> bridge on the north side of the existing bridge with no modifications made to the <br /> current structure. <br /> Mr. Jensen noted the sidewalks that approach the existing bridge are not included <br /> in the funding applications, which should be considered. He further reviewed the <br /> financials of the project and how it would coincide with MnDOT regulations. Mr. <br /> Jensen explained that Option 1 would run $400,000 and Option 2 would cost over <br /> $1 million. <br /> Discussion ensued regarding the right-of-way surrounding the pedestrian bridge. <br />