Agenda - Council - 06/13/2017 - Laserfiche WebLink

Home

Record of Decision — Riverstone Addition Environmental Assessment Worksheet Fish and Wildlife Metropolitan Council staff recommends that the City specify use of surmountable curbs throughout the project site. The use of standard, near -vertical curbs can result in nearly full mortality of the area's turtle population by trapping them within roadways as they pass between wetlands for feeding and nesting. A more gently sloping curb, consistent with DNR's recommendation and guidance, will reduce mortality risks in the area without impacts to stormwater flow, safety, or maintenance. Use of MnDOT Curb and Gutter Design No. S524 or similar design is suggested. Response Comment noted. Traffic and Transportation The Riverstone site is within TAZ (transportation analysis zone) #61. The zone is currently forecasted to gain +86 households during 2014-40. Council staff recommend adding +260 households and +650 population to the TAZ #61 forecast to reflect the planned Riverstone development. Balancing adjustments can be made to TAZs elsewhere in the community. The City can update the TAZ forecast through correspondence to Metropolitan Council. Metropolitan Council's staff opinion is that the expected development fits within the community total forecast prepared by Metropolitan Council; no change is needed to the community total forecast. Response Comment noted. FINDINGS OF FACT Project Description Proposed Project Riverstone Addition is proposed on 89.44 acres of land in the southwestern part of the City of Ramsey, Anoka County, Minnesota. The project will include up to 246 single-family homes and 98 townhome units, municipal sewer and water, mass grading, and stormwater features. Site Description and Existing Conditions The project area is dominated by cropland and has a history of agricultural use. The project area is roughly 96% cropland, 2% tree rows, 1% wetland, and 1% grassland. The site includes sandy soils, 18 feet of topographic relief, and gradual slopes. Approximately 4.4 acres in the northwest part of the site is located within 1,000 feet of Lake Itasca, which is Minnesota DNR (MN DNR) pubic water 2-110P. Decision Regarding the Potential for Significant Environmental Effects Minnesota Rules 4410.1700, Subp. 7 lists four criteria that shall be considered in deciding whether a project has the potential for significant environmental effects. Those criteria and the City's findings are presented below. A. Type, Extent, and Reversibility of Environmental Effects Minnesota Rules 4410.1700 Subp. 7 (A) indicates the first factor that the City must consider is the "type, extent, and reversibility of environmental effects." The City's findings are set forth below. 5