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Ms. Bloom and Mr. Schwartz defined that, of the twenty-six (26)total pathway <br /> miles yet to be constructed, and the total $13 million estimated dollar amount, the <br /> initial bond funds of$2 million designated for pathway construction as <br /> prioritized, would leave $11 million remaining unfunded over the next ten (10) <br /> years, if that was the timeframe determined by the PWETC. In reviewing the <br /> table included in the staff report, Member DeBenedet noted that in review of <br /> build-out and ranking criteria for those of 100 or higher, it was approximately half <br /> of the total projects. Member DeBenedet opined that it would a great <br /> accomplishment if that half could be built in the next seven (7)to eight (8)years. <br /> Staff noted that they had only provided rough estimates of some of the proposed <br /> build-outs, without more detailed calculations done yet. <br /> Member DeBenedet opined that it would be interesting to know the total length of <br /> those projects up to the 100 ranking; and have another column for the length of <br /> projects not included in the Parks Master Plan, further defining those remaining. <br /> Member DeBenedet noted his interest in aggressively convincing Ramsey County <br /> that they include the pathway priorities in the Rice Street corridor planning for <br /> their"Context Sensitive Design." <br /> Mr. Schwartz noted that Ramsey County had discussed it in theory as part of their <br /> revised transportation program, to cost-share 50% of actual sidewalk or trail <br /> construction. <br /> Member DeBenedet opined that it only made sense that various jurisdictions <br /> support public transportation; address how pedestrians accessed bus route areas in <br /> the winter months without fighting vehicular traffic and snow banks; and to <br /> provide a safe place for pedestrians in the winter. Member DeBenedet suggested <br /> a further and more refined review by the PWETC of this list to determine a <br /> realistic cost using city tax dollars; and how those figures could be used to <br /> convince the City Council that this is not only beneficial, but affordable. <br /> Mr. Schwartz suggested that, as this discussion proceeded, this was an exercise <br /> for staff to look at lengths and specific construction complexities; and provide the <br /> PWETC with a better cost estimate; with Ms. Bloom suggesting a feasibility <br /> ranking for those easy to pursue and those more complex. <br /> Chair Vanderwall suggested that staff proceed with that exercise, without <br /> expending too much time and effort; but providing a better picture of those areas <br /> that would be easier to consider initially. <br /> Further discussion included challenges for crossing Highway280 at Larpenteur <br /> Avenue and rights of the City versus rights of the railroad company for their <br /> tracks, as well as various jurisdictions involved, with a portion in Minneapolis, <br /> and the City's existing right-of-way on the west side of the road. <br /> Page 6 of 16 <br />