Agenda - Public Works Committee - 03/19/2013

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Motion carried. Voting Yes: Chairperson Backous and Councilmember Elvig. Voting No: Councilmember McGlone. 5.03: Discuss 2013 Capital Improvement Street Projects Interim Engineer Nelson reviewed the staff report, schedule of 2013 street projects, and funding options. Councilmember McGlone asked about the likelihood of the Mississippi River Trail being built in Ramsey or if the grant money for that project can wait. Parks and Assistant Public Works Superintendent Riverblood stated staff is working through those questions with the City of Anoka and finding the same budgetary problems. He explained the federal processes are costly and complicated and staff is facing engineering costs that had not been projected and engineering work that cannot be handled in-house. In terms of the $380,000 grant shared between Ramsey and Anoka, it is for a 2013 project and he does not know if they can get an extension. Parks and Assistant Public Works Superintendent Riverblood indicated staff has looked into this question in great detail and determined there are implications that are not favorable for the quality of the Mississippi River trail along Riverdale Drive if the project is not shrunk. He reviewed potential options for separated trail and pavement marking but noted that is not what the City said it would do. In addition, there are improvements to Riverdale Park that adds value to the grant. Councilmember McGlone asked whether the trail can be installed and road project done afterwards. Parks and Assistant Public Works Superintendent Riverblood stated that is one of the original problems, to have adequate boulevards for snow storage. He noted if it is on the south side, it impacts seven residential homes. If the road is shrunk, it would move the road away from the homes and that may be a good thing for the residents. Parks and Assistant Public Works Superintendent Riverblood stated if the City does the trail or a wide sidewalk on the south side, it may get separated and maintain snow storage. Councilmember McGlone asked if there is ability to build the trail with the funds received. He also asked if there is enough room to build at its width at the back of the curb irrespective of the road project. He felt the City could get the boulevard later when the road project happens. City Administrator Ulrich advised there is a need to value engineer the project to get the best value. He stated the issues include whether to tear up a road with an estimated ten years of life to construct a $1.3 million project for a $380,000 grant. He indicated the City will need to determine what makes the most sense, solutions to lower the cost, and to leverage the grant. Chairperson Backous noted this will be discussed with the City Council and the purpose tonight is to provide information. Public Works Committee / November 20, 2012 Page 7 of 8