Minutes - Council Work Session - 06/24/2008

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Public Works Director Olson stated that MSA funds can be used for these upgrades. He stated that the posts on top of the medians like Mayor Gamec is referring to are for curbs that are lower, such as 4 inches tall or less. He stated that a 6-inch high curb is considered insurmountable, so it does not need the additional posts. Civil Engineer n Linton stated that Alpine could have a median installed pretty easily, but Jarvis would have a bigger issue because the road would need to be widened and the existing signals may need to be moved; it may make more sense to go to the wayside horn option. He stated that Andover paid about $70,000 for the pole and signaling device and there is also a $10,000 maintenance contract. Councilmember Dehen asked why Andover went with the wayside horn options rather than the median. Public Works Director Olson stated that he was unsure, but it may be because of the issues with the expense of widening the road, because the concrete that goes between the rails is expensive and takes a long time because the railroad company does this work. Councilmember Jeffrey asked if the City creates the quiet zones whether the City also assumes liability of there is a malfunction of the system and an accident occurs. Civil Engineer n Linton stated that Andover suggested talking to our insurance company to see if it will affect our rates. Councilmember Jeffrey stated that he brought this issue up because of the recent lawsuit awarded to the four families who lost their children at the railroad intersection in Anoka a few years ago. He stated that the signal apparently malfunctioned and the families were awarded $24 million. Public Works Director Olson stated that the railroad still has liability and also installs the systems. He stated that it is important to note that the train engineer has the discretion to use the horn regardless of whether there is a quiet zone or not. City Attorney Goodrich noted that there was a 6 week trial in this case and the jury found against the railroad, however, they are appealing the case. Councilmember Look asked if the lawsuit encourages quiet zone improvements or if it makes the likelihood of being approved for a quiet zone less. City Attorney Goodrich stated that if the City's doesn't make the improvements, then there won't be consideration for the quiet zone designation. Councilmember Dehen stated that every other transportation system relies on lights and trust that they will work. He stated that whenever people drive on the highways, there has to be a certain level of trust that the stop light systems will work. He stated that he has heard from North Fork City Council Work Session / June 24, 2008 Page 4 of6