Agenda - Council - 12/13/2016 - Laserfiche WebLink

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v. The project's contribution to Improvement In the overall reliability of a multimodal transportation system that serves all users Bicyclists and Pedestrians The frequent crossing of trains along CSAH 56 can make access difficult and unreliable for bicycles and pedestrians under current conditions. There are several existing and planned trails north of the US 10/CSAH 56 intersection that are disconnected from the park and planned trail system south of US 10 along the Mississippi River to Elk River. Grade separating the sidewalk and trail facilities along CSAH 56 as part of the proposed project will allow users to more easily access the Northstar Commuter Rail Station,businesses, services,and recreational areas in the COR on foot or by bicycle. The proposed project will also allow pedestrians and cyclists north of US 10 to safely access the Mississippi River Trail and Mississippi West Regional Park. Transit The proposed project will improve multi-modal access to the Northstar Commuter Rail station in Ramsey. Freight Carriers As shown in the benefit-cost analysis,implementation of the proposed project will result in accrued time/cost savings for over-the-road freight vehicles. US 10 is a major intermodal freight corridor for the Twin Cities metropolitan area. Furthermore,Minnesota state law requires vehicles carrying hazardous materials to stop at all railroad crossings. Because there is little space between the railroad crossing and US 10, some of these stopped vehicles protrude onto US 10,presenting both safety and intersection operations issues. While freight and commuter rail trains do not currently experience delay at the existing intersection with CSAH 56,rail operators as well as the Federal Railroad Administration favor the elimination of at-grade crossings to reduce the frequency and severity of accidents involving vehicles and pedestrians. US 10/CSAH 56 FAS LANE Application 12 City of Ramsey