Laserfiche WebLink
Mr. Jischke presented estimated costs for the enhanced landscaping and trails totaling $224,000 <br />with the entire cost being borne by the City. He asked for the Council's input on these concepts <br />so the plan can be moved forward. <br />Mayor Strommen asked how these costs fit into the City's overall budget for this project and if it <br />is additional, how it would be funded. <br />City Administrator Ulrich stated the City initially allocated $5 million in this TIF District and <br />staff has worked to secure funding from various sources. He noted that Anoka County and the <br />City agreed to contribute equal amounts to this project so it is within a range of $5 million to $10 <br />million depending on the level received in State funding. If Anoka County contributes $250,000 <br />then the City could spend $250,000 on these types of enhancements from internal borrowing or, <br />perhaps, General Obligation Bonding. He stated the City will receive about $800,000 back from <br />the rail station project because it came in under budget so those funds could be used towards this <br />project. City Administrator Ulrich explained that anything beyond $250,000 would exceed what <br />had been anticipated. <br />Development Services Manager Gladhill stated there is room to look at quantities and strategic <br />decisions on the formliners /pilasters being on all walls or only north of Highway 10, and the <br />level of landscaping. He stated if the Council supports the brick look, it involves a structural <br />element and would have to be decided upon quickly whereas decisions on items such as <br />landscaping can be made later. <br />Councilmember Backous asked if this is the "Cadillac" version. <br />Mr. Jischke indicated it is not. <br />Mayor Strommen asked about on -going maintenance of brick veneer. <br />Mr. Jischke stated it has been proven to stand the test of time and in this roadway setting, a <br />different type of construction will be used of thin brick cast into the concrete structure without <br />tuck points. The under- laying concrete appears as the joint, which minimizes maintenance. <br />City Engineer Westby stated last week it came up at a meeting that Anoka County had completed <br />a bridge with a similar design (pilaster above the bridge decking and cast veneer) and there have <br />been maintenance issues. <br />Mr. Jischke stated he has not seen that as being a maintenance issue and the first time he heard <br />maintenance concerns voiced, was at that meeting. <br />City Engineer Westby explained Anoka County recommended the City take a closer look before <br />going with those building materials. <br />Mr. Jischke stated it may be an issue of sustainability to road salts, which he researched, and <br />found brick is a good material to hold up to salt when compared to concrete, as it is clay based. <br />City Council Work Session / February 25, 2014 <br />Page 4 of 10 <br />