Agenda - Planning Commission - 12/01/2011 - Work Session

Home

Transit Overview The COR is designed to be 'transit ready' in a variety of ways that go beyond providing a walkable public realm and connected street grid. The Master Plan also includes a multimodal transit station, with dedicated commuter parking, integrated with other uses at the heart of the retail, restaurant and NORTHSTAR COMMUTER RAIL entertainment district. This station functions as a hub where local circulator transit comes together with regional transit service and the Northstar Corridor. This station is designed to meet the short term needs of the Ramsey Star Express service, and also the long term objectives for proposed commuter rail service in the future. The COR is the Twin Cities' first and only transit -oriented development along the new Northstar Commuter Rail Line. With final approval from the Metropolitan Council as an in -fill station, the City of Ramsey has lined up financing and prepared plans for Ramsey Station at The COR. Construction is expected to commence in the fall of 2011 with riders boarding the train in the fall of 2012. As Northstar's most visible station, The COR will immediately bolster the ridership on the line, and continue to build recognition for this regional service. Transit components include the following: • Ramsey Star Express service provides peak period, peak direction bus service between downtown Minneapolis and Ramsey • North Star Commuter Rail provides train service between Big Lake and downtown Minneapolis • 350 park and ride parking spaces are provided for commuters adjacent to the transit station • Pedestrian and bicycle connections are emphasized in the Master Plan as major links between the transit station, various districts within The COR and into the surrounding neighborhoods • The COR can accommodate Metro Mobility, citywide circulator bus or town trolley connections as part of local and regional service to the transit station UF&N,LTF1J, • r,rr hoxnm-nrs (JJ rur rKit aMc r The COR also encourages developers to participate in a Travel Demand Management (TDM) program to both assist and encourage residents and visitors to take advantage of the various modes available for their commuting and travel needs. The TDM program draws from incentives and services available through Anoka County and Metro Commuter Services that match riders with carpools and vanpools, provide discounted transit passes and manage work hours among other functions. Developers should submit a TDM plan with their site plan application for development and work with the City to implement their plans. Transit Guideline Recommendations Transit is an important component of the overall plan, with expectations for more ridership, using a greater range of transit options as they become available. More people, together with the mix of Design Framework — The COR Page 8