Minutes - Public Works Committee - 12/13/2011

Home

asked to approve initiation of the appraisal to start the acquisition discussion to facilitate the roadway. He described the roundabout design and realignment of Sunwood Drive. Tony Heppelmann, WSB, addressed the Armstrong Boulevard portion of the project and noted it will fit the long -term interchange layout with left and right turn lanes to meet the 20 -year forecast. He noted the grade at Sunwood Drive and Armstrong Boulevard would be raised to match the future profile that will be three feet higher. South of Sunwood Drive, it will be tied back in and elevated as much as ten feet higher than the existing alignment. There will also be permanent storm sewer improvements taking drainage from temporary /rural ditch sections along Armstrong Boulevard north into the existing pond. Mr. Heppelmann noted the extension of watermain from Sunwood Drive to the west to the terminus of improvements on 147 to service the area on the west side of Armstrong. There will be some adjustments to sanitary sewer and manholes due to the significant amount of fill that would be placed over it. He explained the time to consider that is when the interchange project is actually designed. Development Manager Lazan noted the location of the existing storm drainage pond that overflows into the wetland to the east. Once the system is built, drainage will go to Lake Ramsey. Mr. Heppelmann stated the cost is $1.7 million including the signal, administrative, and a 10% contingency. The cost is $1.3 million for the Sunwood Drive realignment. Public Works Director Olson pointed out the location of right -of -way takings, noting if shifting 147 to the south, the property on the southwest corner would be a total taking. The other locations would be strip takings. Development Manager Lazan stated the HRA will be asked to authorize appraisals and to start negotiations on strip takings. Public Works Director Olson advised that the cost for the right -of -way provided east of Armstrong Boulevard has not been added to the overall cost of the project. Development Manager Lazan advised that no acquisition costs are included in the cost estimates, only construction estimates. Public Works Director Olson noted it is not a typical streetscape but would be narrower with trails, boulevard lights, and trees. Informational; no action required. COMMITTEE INPUT City Engineer Himmer reported an open house will be held on December 14, 2011, 5 -6 p.m. in the Alexander Ramsey Room for Garnet Street residents to talk about proposal offered by the City Council that residents pay 50% of the road costs. Public Works Committee / December 13, 2011 Page 6 of 7