Agenda - Council - 05/22/2012 - Laserfiche WebLink

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CC Regular Session Meeting Date: 05/22/2012 By: Tim Himmer, Engineering/Public Works 4. 2. Information Title: Accept Plans and Specifications and Authorize the Bidding of the Sunwood Drive Realignment Project: City Improvement Project 12-20 Background: The Armstrong Boulevard/Highway 10 interchange project is considered one of the highest transportation priorities in the City. In an effort to reduce the overall costs the Council has been discussing ways to preconstruct portions of this project, such that it can be accomplished in phases. One phase of this interchange project is the realignment of Sunwood Drive, which is being considered to improve traffic flow through the area in the short term, create a consolidated signalized access to the COR along its western boundary, provide for a portion of the City's cost participation in the interchange project, and create additional development options for the COR property. The Sunwood realignment will construct the first intersection north of Highway 10 on Armstrong Boulevard, at a location that addresses the major concerns expressed by MnDOT and Anoka County. The project includes the realignment of Sunwood Drive, between approximately Zeolite Street and Armstrong Boulevard (see attached preliminary design). The intent is to work north to south on Armstrong Boulevard and complete another section of the roadway in its final location; to set the stage for the ultimate interchange over the railroad tracks and Highway 10. Draft feasibility studies were presented to the Public Works Committee and HRA on December 13, 2011, with the only remaining outstanding item being the funding package. On that date the HRA authorized the preparation of appraisals for the potential acquisition of 3 parcels along the west side of Armstrong Boulevard that are necessary for portions of this project, and ultimately the interchange project. On January 24, 2012 draft feasibility studies were presented to the City Council for consideration. At that meeting the City Council authorized the final design contracts with Landform and WSB & Associates, and ordered the preparation of plans and specifications. Observations: The plans and specifications were completed and submitted to the various review agencies for comment, including Anoka County and the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT). We have received the initial comments from each entity, modified for the plans accordingly, and have resubmitted for final review and approval. It is required that we have final approval from both entities before the bids can be opened and a contract awarded. In an effort to preserve time staff intends to publish the project for bid and allow contractors to begin receiving project plans to formulate a bid. As comments are received addendums can be issued, as necessary, for any significant plan revisions that are required. In an effort to minimize disruptions to local businesses and residents, a revised construction staging plan, that will address road closures and detours, has recently been developed. This revised plan will be reviewed by the community at an informational open house to be held on May 17, 2012. At this meeting we will be presenting the proposed staging approach, listening to concerns, and looking at opportunities for potential improvements. Staff has investigated several options for construction staging and believe this latest approach is the best solution to address the concerns expressed to date. A separate case will be presented to the HRA in the near future that outlines other proposed improvements that will be incorporated into this project; including reconstructed accesses to the Northstar Market Place, and mass grading of the new retail area that will created at the west end of the COR with the realigned Sunwood Drive. While