2012-02-28_PWETC_Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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was based solely on safety (e.g. Safe Routes to Schools), and was always part of ongoing discussions. Chair DeBenedet noted his major safety concern at Victoria Street near West Owasso Boulevard in accessing the Owasso ball fields; with Mr. Evenson assuring the Commission that safety was always a major consideration and, while specific projects were not listed in detail for funding, some improvements had already been made. Mr. Evenson advised that funding was currently divided with $1.5 million for trails and $2 million for pathways. Chair DeBenedet questioned the connection between Valley Park and West Owasso; with Mr. Evenson advising that this connection, similar to Oasis Park and Langton Lake, were easier ones to connect and would serve as a prototype to alert residents to the constellation concept. Mr. Evenson advised that this would be accomplished through signage at a minimal cost, and would then when the concept was more apparent, other projects would be implemented based on their prioritization. Member Vanderwall noted, on the east side of West Owasso and Victoria Street, one of the homes on a lower point had installed boulders in their yard to address safety issues as some vehicles ended up in their yard due, in his opinion, to the poor design of the curve that was reverse-sloped. Member Vanderwall opined that, while this may not be considered "low hanging fruit" as a priority, the project would serve to significantly change the safety of the area and allow kids to access the ball fields more safely. From his perspective with school transportation, Member Vanderwall opined that the corner was a safety hazard for pedestrian and/or bicycle traffic. Mr. Schwartz noted safety concerns at Victoria and Dale Streets and the impact the PWET Commission could have on safety through its review of future road designs. Mr. Schwartz advised that the current traffic counts were 9,500, while several years ago, they were at 11,000; and suggested that the Commission may want to make recommendations and suggest to Ramsey County that they review configurations to address some of those safety issues. Member Vanderwall concurred, and opined that it wouldn't hurt to do so at the intersection of Dale Street with County Road B as well. Mr. Brokke encouraged PWET Commissioners to keep in contact with the Parks and Recreation Department and staff as projects moved forward; and invited their attendance at any Parks and Recreation Commission meetings as well; opining that their input and comments were always appreciated, since everyone was working toward the same goals. Chair thanked presenters for their attendance and their informative presentation. Recess Page 6 of 13