Agenda - Economic Development Authority - 03/11/2021

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Member Heineman commented that this would seem to be a proposed permanent solution to a temporary problem. City Engineer Westby confirmed that Anoka County is proposing interim improvements in attempt to accommodate the additional traffic and capacity and improve safety during that period. He stated that at the same time the County is ensuring that the improvements would last for 10 to 20 years and delay the need to make large improvements, which would be proposed at a later date. Member Heineman commented that businesses are in their locations for the long haul and therefore it would not seem wise to make improvements that would impact their traffic flow for the long- term when these improvements are only needed for a temporary basis to alleviate traffic during the Highway 10 construction. He did not support these becoming permanent improvements. Member Cords commented that he recently attended a funeral and there was only one access to the building which required him to make three U-turns in order to find that access. He stated that he would not want to see that type of action needed for large trucks with trailers attempting to access businesses. He agreed that the permanence of these improvements should be limited. Member Heineman stated that perhaps a compromise could be reached designating primary shipping times during non -peak traffic times in order to mitigate some of the industrial traffic flow. Member Riley commented that this topic is appropriate for the EDA because these changes impact many businesses. He stated that Connexus, the largest employer in Ramsey already had its access limited on Ramsey Boulevard and this action would further limit the access on Bunker Lake Boulevard. He commented that there is a City Council resolution suggesting strengthened language against certain improvements relating to medians and limiting traffic movements. He recognized that these improvements are necessary to support the traffic during the Highway 10 project but noted that the EDA could make additional comments related to the potential business impacts. Deputy City Administrator Gladhill noted that the EDA could choose to support the resolution adopted by the City Council. Motion by Member Heineman, seconded by Member Cords, to support the resolution adopted by the City Council outlining the strong concerns with the proposed project. A roll call vote was performed: Member Heineman aye Member Cords aye Member Riley aye Member Howell aye Acting Chairperson Burandt aye Motion carried. Economic Development Authority/ February 11, 2021 Page 6 of 8