Agenda - Public Works Committee - 09/18/2001

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P.W. CASE # Emergency Vehicle Access into Construction Sites By: Brian E. Olson, City Engineer Background: The purpose of this case to is discuss and ensure the ability for emergency vehicles to successfully gain access into construction sites as well as implement a policy to ensure that there are not any residents that are "out of help's reach." The City of Ramsey currently does not have any policy to control the sequencing of a development. The City of Ramsey currently has fire trucks, that carry the equipment to rescue those in need, that are also carrying 3000 gallons of water. The water alone weighs over 12 tons, not to mention the weight of the vehicle. This weight leads to a problem that occurs when attempting to drive on a surface that has little strength. Another criteria that we look for in the plan review stage of a site plan is the spacing of fire hydrants. When water supply is available it is common to require that hydrants be spaced no longer than 600 feet apart. This requirement is necessary to ensure that fire personnel need to pull no more than 300 feet of hose to connect to continuous water supply. It is Staff's opinion that there should be some constraints that require developers build in a sequence that ensures the safety of the workers constructing the proposed facilities and to further require that no occupancy permits be issued before bituminous paving is complete. Recommendation: To direct City Staff to develop a policy that would require developers to construct a Class 5 driving surface to within at least 300 feet of any building under construction and to require bituminous surface prior to issuance of any occupancy permit. Committee Action: Based upon discussion Reviewed by: City Administrator Director of Public Works PW: 09/18/01