Agenda - Council - 02/26/2019 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Comment 9.1: Regarding stormwater runoff, the AUAR states that the RTC will require a stormwater outlet to the Mississippi River. Item 8, question 5 (page 8-6) states that a discharge path has not yet been identified and that permitting by the DNR will be required for future discharge to the River. We encourage the City of Ramsey to work closely with the DNR and other relevant agencies in the design of the RTC stormwater management system. Tables 17.1, 17.2 and 17.3 suggest significant increases in stormwater runoff from existing conditions during the 100-year rainfall and snowmelt events, for both the minimum and maximum projected runoff condition. We encourage minimization of runoff to the greatest extent possible and adherence to the Mississippi River Critical Area standards, as well as those of the MNRRA CMP. Response: As stated in previous responses to Comments #3, 7.3 and 7.13, the details on runoff minimization BMPs will be an element of design as the project develops. The City is currently working with the County to determine the route and character of the ultimate River discharge. Once these items are determined, the City can begin to work in earnest with the regulatory agencies to define the protection needed. Comment 9.2: The issue of a potential river crossing is also raised in the discussion on traffic in Item 21 of the AUAR. While decisions regarding a future bridge crossing will be made through the transportation planning process, the development of a town center could influence decisions for a new River bridge. In its plans for the RTC, we urge the City to carefully consider the potential impacts of any future crossing on the River corridor and on existing and proposed parks and open space on both sides of the river. Response: As noted on page 21-3, a potential river crossing is being studied and a draft scoping document has been prepared. Page 21-3 further notes that an EIS for the river crossing would be the next step in the planning process. Such a document would address both the transportation and parks and open space impacts of the potential crossing. Comment 9.3: The NPS also encourages the creation of continuous greenway corridors to, and along, the Mississippi River where possible, and promotes connections to the regional trail system, including access to the River. We also urge consideration of visual impacts on the river corridor of any tall structures planned within the RTC boundary, such as new elevated reservoir or communications towers. Response: The AUAR identified the desire of the City and the RTC developer to connect the new RTC to the River trail via a connection along the drainage corridor. This connection would provide an opportunity for new residents and visitors to the RTC to walk to the River trail. The issue of visual impacts is addressed in Item 26 and in the response to Comment #8.15. The City acknowledges the comment on tall structures and will work with the developer to address this concern during site and building design. Comment 9.4: The MNRRA Comprehensive Management Plan (CMP) provides NPS land use and protection guidelines for the Mississippi River corridor. Policies of particular relevance too RTC planning are as follows: Policy 2, page 13: Reduce runoff through coordinated efforts of state and local agencies to update development and enforcement standards for major new 34-21