Minutes - Council Work Session - 03/29/2011

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Ms. Nelson talked about The COR — described the area as well as the parking and transit facility. She touched on The Draw project and talked about the clean-up (St. Paul Terminals). Director of Public Works Olson talked about Highway #10 and about it being an issue — how accesses were taken away when it was made into freeway status. He talked about official mapping the corridor and about buying properties — RALF Program. He talked about the Armstrong Boulevard interchange and wanting Met Council's support of that. He talked about the fire station and trains and how this is a public safety issue without the interchange. Councilmember Jeffrey agreed with the safety issue of the Fire Station on Armstrong and the railroad tracks and reiterated wanting Met Council's support. Councilmember Elvig talked about the City of Ramsey being good stewards for the Highway #10 improvements by buying properties and placing a moratorium on development. Mr. Olson added that Ramsey has been progressive and proactive with regard to transportation. Mayor Ramsey added we do have design build authority on this bridge. Mr. Olson talked about different funds. He extended his appreciation to the Met Council for their support for the bus and the parking ramp. He touched on the groundwater supply issue and about looking for funding sources. Ms. Nelson talked about if we made an investment it could have broader benefit when it comes to the water — it could benefit other communities. Mayor Ramsey added that it's a regional issue — not a municipal issue. Parks Supervisor Riverblood talked about the Mississippi River and its uniqueness. He presented a map, which included locations such as the Kelly Farm, and showed the continuation of the rail line, the islands, etc. He also presented the proposed Mississippi Trail for year 2013. He talked about connecting with Anoka and Elk River and about a pedestrian overpass. He talked about the cost of the trails and how Ramsey would like help with all that. Mayor Ramsey expanded on the overpass stating its purpose would be to link two regional parks. Senior Planner Gladhill talked about the 2030 Comprehensive Plan and stated that we anticipate some updates. He talked about the Master Plan being part of the Comp Plan amendment. He expressed appreciation to the Met Council for their support on these amendments to the comp plan. Met Councilmember Reynoso stated that he has a lot to learn and he appreciates all this information and the fact that Ramsey has been so aggressive through this process and that staff has taken the time to take him and Ms. Hoyt through this. He stated he is willing to work with City Council Work Session — March 29, 2011 Page 2 of11