2002-09-11 CC Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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COUNTY STATE AID mGHWAY 8/14 FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS AND RESPONSES Washington County, Anoka County, the Cities of Hugo and Lino Lakes, along with their consultant TKDA, are conducting a study of the County State Aid Highway (CSAH) 8/14 corridor between Interstate 35E (I-35E) and Trunk Highway 61 (TH 61). Four alignment alternatives are being analyzed in the project's preliminary design phase: 140.h Street Alignment: Realigning CSAH 8 to connect with TH 61 at l40.h Street 142nd Street Alignment: Realigning CSAH 8 to connect with TH 61 between l40th Street and existing CSAH 8 14S.h Street Alignment (Existing): Maintaining the CSAH 8 alignment along its existing location 147'b Street Alignment: Realigning CSAH 8 to connect with TH 61 at l47th StreetlOneka Lake Boulevard The four alternative alignments each have pros and cons, which are being analyzed. This analysis includes an evaluation of the social, environmental, and economic impacts of each alternative. Based on the analysis done to date, it has been determined that the l40.h Street alignment will be eliminated. Environmental impacts, right-of-way and construction costs, and travel patterns are the main reasons for eliminating the alternative. The remaining three alternatives will continue to be analyzed. The following are the most frequently asked questions on the CSAH 8/14 project: Why is this study being done? Washington and Anoka Counties are experiencing a high growth rate, which impacts existing roads and utilities. The development in Hugo, Lino Lakes, and surrounding communities is placing a higher demand on the regional road system. Traffic volumes have more than doubled on many roads in both counties in the last ten years. Traffic volumes are expected to increase on County State Aid Highway (CSAH) 8/14 by two to three times within the next 20 years. Along with increasing traffic can come unsafe and inefficient traffic operations, including passing on the shoulder, cars traveling over the speed limit, people having difficulty getting onto the main road from city streets and driveways, traffic congestion, and people unable to use the road for walking or biking. People who live on CSAH 8/14 in Hugo and Lino Lakes have reported these types of problems and that they continue to increase. It is the responsibility of the Cities and Counties to address these problems. That is why we are involved in a thorough and comprehensive process, which includes concurrent technical analysis and public involvement. CSAH 8/14 FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS AND RESPONSES - Updated July 2002 -1-