Agenda - Public Works Committee - 10/16/2012

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playgrounds that draw children and now needs to provide safe passage to those parks. Councilmember Elvig indicated this is a problem that was tabled several years ago and recommended it be discussed at another meeting when the Committee can view maps of the area and determine the best location for a crosswalk. He noted another option is to use the Street Light Fund to install lighting. He asked whether the use of concrete will result in use by skateboards. Chairperson Backous agreed that the City constructs parks and also needs to provide safe passage. In addition, children are crossing the street anyway so the City needs to make it as safe as it can. Chairperson Backous noted it does not need to be expensive and he would support using the Street Light Fund to install street lighting. Chairperson Backous asked if the Committee was willing to table consideration to allow time for additional staff research. Councilmember McGlone supported relooking at this situation because when this park was put in, there was only so much funding so the path was not completed. He pointed out that it is now at the end of the season and not likely anything will happen during this construction season. Mr. Helfenstein stated that is understandable Councilmember Elvig asked if the Street Light Fund can be used for a light on the other side. Ms. Helfenstein stated there is a streetlight at the corner. The consensus of the Public Works Committee was to recommend the City Council direct staff to further research and make recommendation on the installation of a crosswalk near the Zirconium Street and Alpine Drive intersection. 5.06: Consider Retention Pond Improvements Near 5430 149 Lane Public Works Superintendent Riemer reviewed the staff report. Youssif Elmajri, 5430 149 Lane, stated the outlet pipe is at an upward angle so the pond floods into the lowland area. He explained the concern was with children falling into the pond when the water rises up to a depth of 5 -7 feet. Mr. Elmajri asked if there are alternate options like a fence instead of clearing trees because doing so would make the pond more obvious. He explained that with the current tree cover, most people do not know the pond is there but neighborhood children are aware it is there. Mr. Elmajri stated he supports not removing all of the trees but would support limiting tree removal or considering another option like a fence. Public Works Superintendent Riemer stated the installation of fences around retention ponds was brought up before but felt that if children get into a fenced pond, it is harder for them to get out. Also, doing so would involve a large capital expense. Public Works Superintendent Riemer stated he had talked to other neighbors and thought they supported removing trees to increase the view if someone gets into the pond. He noted the trees around the pond are not that large. Public Works Committee / September 18, 2012 Page 6 of 16