2006-12-06 P&R Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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Figure 2 illustrates the proposed Clearwater Trail route and connection. The "desired route" includes a pedestrian bridge that would cross over the freeway and connect to an existing trail that leads along Otter Lake Road on the east side of the highway. This route is the easiest and most direct and runs through currently undeveloped land. The Victor Gardens residential development and other nearby developments are just east of the proposed pedestrian bridge. (See also Figures 10 and 11.) The "alternate route" (Fig 2) goes north and northeast to connect at County Road 14. This route would come into play if the 35E corridor survey, currently being compiled by the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDDT), indicates that a pedestrian overpass would not be feasible. Mr. Rick Amebeck ofMnDDT was contacted January 22, 2004, about the possibility of a pedestrian bridge as shown in Fig 2. He stated the timing is perfect for decisions on this 35E corridor. They are studying this area and plan to have answers within the next 12 months. He agreed that there needs to be some kind of consideration for pedestrians in this area. Figure 3. County Road 14 and 35E bridge looking west, Currently, this is a dangerous crossing for pedestrians and bicyclists. This picture was taken on January 11,2004. Figure 3 shows the current bridge at 35E and County Road 14. The picture shows the two lane bridge with no possible room for pedestrians or bicyclists. A 90 acre church with 3,000 to 6,000 members is planned about one mile northwest of this intersection and, if it gets a Lino Lakes Conditional Use Permit, the intersection will see substantial increase in traffic in the near future. Recently, 4 way stop signs have been installed at both exit ramp locations because of congestion. County Road 14 is currently under study by MnDDT and may be expanded to four lanes with an accompanying four lane bridge. 6