Agenda - Public Works Committee - 10/16/2012

Home

Chairperson Backous stated the visibility at this location is limited because you cannot see the intersection until you approach it. He asked about putting down woodchips on the north side of Alpine Drive, which may require significant grading, down to the other crosswalk. He agreed there is not an easy solution because of the grade and use of timber steps would not be ADA compliant. Public Works Superintendent Riemer advised that the east and west park entrances both qualify for ADA compliance. He indicated that crossing the street would be the cheapest route; however, not the safest. Chairperson Backous invited neighbors to address this issue. Michael Helfenstein, 6440 153 Way, indicated there are 36 children in this neighborhood. He stated he understands this area includes a hill and mid -block is not a good crosswalk location and may not be a safe place, but it would be safer than it is now and the crosswalk could be signed to alert drivers. Ms. Helfenstein, 6440 153 Way, pointed out that children are crossing midblock already and she likes the suggestion of installing steps. Mr. Helfenstein stated he would like the City to consider whether there is a solution, even if not an ideal location. Public Works Superintendent Riemer indicated a pedestrian crossing sign cost $800 and painting a crosswalk cost $200 but he does not know the cost for flashing lights. Councilmember McGlone asked about the location of the proposed mid -block crossing. Public Works Superintendent Riemer used a map to point out the proposed mid -block location of the crossing and described points of visibility and location of the crosswalk to the skate park. Mr. Helfenstein stated his children have no crosswalk to get to the playground. He noted there are paved paths on both sides of Sunfish Boulevard and in his neighborhood they just need to get from their street to the stop light. Mr. Helfenstein pointed out that children going to the skate park are older and wiser about crossing the street but the children using the playground park are younger. He noted there are miles of paved walking paths in Ramsey and he is asking for only a short distance believing it is worth it if it saves one life in 30 years. Mr. Helfenstein stated a woodchip path up to the stop sign is cheaper but may wash out because of the hill. Councilmember McGlone stated he is known as the "sidewalk guy" but is wondering if mid - block is the best location for a crosswalk. In addition, woodchips are difficult for bicycles to use. Councilmember Elvig noted the Public Works Committee had discussed this issue previously and in this case he advocated strongly to do something He stated the City is good to design Public Works Committee / September 18, 2012 Page 5 of 16