Agenda - Planning Commission - 09/02/2004

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justification study was performed by SRF at the City's direction, based upon traffic counts taken in late April 2001. The Xkimo Street connection to TH 47 had been functioning since December 2000 att the time of this study. The results of this second study showed the traffic volumes using 142® Avenue had decreased over those identified in SRF's earlier study. The City has not requested MnDOT to do another traffic signal warrant study since that time. Assistant Public Works Director Olson stated that it would be appropriate to encourage MnDOT to perform a signal warrant study to determine whether signalization of this intersection if a viable option. He indicated City Staffwould also work with MnDOT to restrict left turns at this intersection. Ne noted that Police Chief way does not believe s~gnalization of this intersection is wan'anted and is concerned about traffic backing up in the area. Councihnember Zimmennan stated the City should hold a public hearing for the purpose of gathering citizen input on the issue. " Motion by Councilmember Elvig, seconded by Councilmember Pearson, to direct staff to request a traffic signal warrant study be performed by MnDOT to determine whether signalization of this intersection is a viable option, and that an analysis be prepared by MnDOT of how restricted left turns onto the highway could enhance safety. Motion carried. Voting Yes: Mayor Gamec, Councilmembers Elvig, Pearson, Cook, Strommen, and Zimmerman. Voting No: None. Absent: Councilmember Kurak. 4) Alpine Woods Trunk Charges Councihnember Zimmerman stated this case was resolved by the City Council at its June 22, 2004 meeting, No action is required by the City Council at this time. 5) Receive Appraisals for TH 47 Trail Acquisition Councihnember Zimmennan reported that at the present time, a trail has been constructed along the west side of TH 47 from the northern boundary of River Pines 5th Addition to Alpine Drive except for a 233-foot gap associated with a single parcel. In addition, the City controls all necessary right-of-way to enable this trail to be extended north of River Pines 5th Addition to Ehncrest Park with the exception of two parcels. At the January 13, 2003 City Council meeting, staff was authorized to obtain appraisals for these three parcels. The appraised value of the three parcels is as fbllows: Parcel I ($5,400); Parcel 2 ($6,200); and Parcel 3 ($8,950). The next step in acquiring these easements is to send a letter to each of the three p!'operty owners transmitting a copy of the appraisal, advising them of their fight to have their own appraisal reimbursed up to a cost of $1,500, and advising them that the City would be open to negotiation for the easement. Councilmember Zimlnennan requested that City Staff prepare a drawing showing the future trail all the way to Ehncrest Park. Ciq, Council/July 13, 2004 Page 11 of 24 P51