Minutes - Council Work Session - 07/16/2019 - Special

Home

Community Development Director Gladhill confirmed the full support of the Council for the folded diamond option, noting that there are strong mixed feelings on the alternative option. Ms. Bersaw reviewed the different options for Sunfish Lake, noting that some concepts include a rail crossing while others include an at grade rail separation. She stated that there is not a TAC recommendation for Sunfish Lake. She stated that the first question is regarding the rail crossing and whether at grade rail crossing would be preferred or whether a rail grade separation would be desired. She stated that the roadway network exists for travelers to choose another route for a rail grade separation option. She stated that if there is a rail separation at Sunfish Lake, Highway 10 would also include an overpass, noting that option is the highest cost option. She compared that to a right-in/right-out option which has an at grade rail crossing and explained that Highway 10 could then go over Sunfish Lake. She noted that the two options have a cost difference of $20,000,000 to $30,000,000. Community Development Director Gladhill stated that the Police Chief stated that public safety would prefer a grade separation. He provided additional comments on a possible connection of McKinley Street to the segment in Anoka as well. Councilmember Kuzma stated that he would prefer overpasses for both with rail grade separations at both as well. Councilmember Heinrich stated that she does not take cost lightly but when the response time for public safety can be improved that should be a focus. She stated that funding will be gained eventually, and she would prefer to do things right the first time rather than push for part of the solution and attempt to ask for additional funds in the future for additional improvements that the City wished it would have done. Councilmember Musgrove stated that she would support for grade separation for the rail and highway. She stated that the rail crossings would ensure that traffic can continue to move, whether or not there is a train. Community Development Director Gladhill stated that the grade separation can be recommended but there are models that show the que working. Ms. Bersaw explained that the models are designed to accommodate traffic 20 years into the future, noting that the at grade rail crossing options would function operationally. She recognized that there is valid concern. Acting Mayor Riley stated that he would also support the grade separated rail crossing. He stated that he does not like the right-in/right-out option and would like to explore the other options. He felt that the grade separation rail crossing is important. He recognized that saving money is great but not doing things right the first time can be expensive. Ms. Bersaw stated that the right-in/right-out options are becoming more traditional as funding becomes tighter but recognized that it is still a newer option. She stated that while some of the City Council Work Session/July 16, 2019 Page 3 of 6