Agenda - Public Works Committee - 09/15/2009

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CONSIDER RIGHT OF WAY PLAN FOR V ARIOLITE STREET EXTENSION INTO RAMSEY TOWN CENTER By: Tim Himmer, City Engineer CASE # ~ Background: The property owner of Lot 1, Block 1 PINEVIEW ESTATES 2ND ADDITION (see attached location map) recently approached the City to discuss acquisition of his parcel. The vacant parcel is contained within the corridor for a future north-south road connecting the Town Center to Variolite Street. This item was brought to the Public Works Committee on July 21,2009, and was forwarded to Finance Committee for consideration. The Finance Committee discussed this item on August 11, 2009 and their motion was to forego the acquisition at this time, but to prepare a right of way plan to be submitted to MnDOT for State Aid consideration which would result in a funding source for acquisitions along this corridor to preserve the necessary right of way for a future roadway connection. Observations: To obtain State Aid payments for right of way acquisition, a plan must be submitted for review and approval. Right of way payments may be based on a grading plan for the corridor, or a separate right of way plan may be submitted. This plan shall show the alignment, grades, typical section and proposed right of way limits. Plans from which right of way payment will be requested prior to submitting a grading plan shall be accompanied by the engineer's estimate of the right of way cost. The minimum widths of right of way for State Aid routes must be at least 60 feet within cities and 66 feet in rural areas, except that the right of way may be less for routes that are within a city, that were constructed before November 11, 1995, and that can be reconstructed to new construction standards within the previously existing right of way. Before construction, the governing body shall acquire control of the additional widths of right of way as may be necessary to properly maintain the ditch section, drainage structures, and recovery area. Permanent easements for highway purposes are considered to be right of way for the purposes of State Aid Rules standards. Several alignment options have been developed for this potential north-south roadway connection, and are attached for your review. Staff is looking for direction on the preferred alignment so the necessary information can be compiled and submitted for State Aid review. Action: Consider alignment options and direct staff to prepare the required right of way plan for State Aid submittal and acquisition funding. Attachments: Location Map Alignment Options Reviewed By: Director of Public Works/Principal City Engineer PW: 9/15/09