Agenda - Planning Commission - 04/09/2015

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neighborhood wanted so the Council needs to determine the best method to address safety. He supported closing the access. Mayor Strommen stated most often she supports keeping access points open but in this case, Highway 5 is a safety challenge and as Councilmember Shryock pointed out, the school is in close proximity and has multiple access points. In addition, Highway 5 traffic stacks at the points of access, unlike stacking for Highway 47. She stated she is uncomfortable with an uncontrolled intersection and creating additional traffic at an access so close to the school unless the City has a conversation with the County in how to address safety. Acting Mayor LeTourneau stated there have been many conversations about the importance of addressing the needs of Highways 47 and 5. Councilmember Riley asked if Anoka County is totally opposed to an entrance but would allow a right-in/right-out at City cost. Community Development Director Gladhill stated Anoka County strongly opposes a full access but if it were opened, it would need proper safety investments and the County may consider a right-in/right-out at the City' s costs. Planning Commission Chair Levine noted that a right-in/right-out option does not help the situation much and when the Planning Commission was talking about it, it was with full access. Councilmember Riley stated the City wants to work with Anoka County, but the City has already pushed back on the option of having medians. He noted the Planning Commission's recommendation may not be possible if it is not supported by Anoka County. Asst. City Administrator/Economic Development Manager Brama stated he talked with Anoka County who opposes any access whether full or right-in/right-out; however, if opened would select right-in/right-out. He stated Anoka County indicated a willingness to work with the City and the biggest issue with Anoka County is safety. Mayor Strommen asked if a meeting could be held with the Anoka County Commissioners and Anoka County Highway staff prior to the Council making a final decision. She felt it would be worth the time investment to have a conversation on a solution that accomplishes the City's goals rather than only considering this highway corridor in a piecemeal manner. Community Development Director Gladhill stated the City Engineer has started those discussions with the Anoka County Assistant Engineer and staff can come up with a 'game plan' going forward. City Engineer Westby agreed that Highway 5 is an ongoing concern. He stated it is low on Anoka County' s priority list; however, if the City requested a corridor study the County indicated they would consider it.