Minutes - Council Work Session - 10/12/2021

Home

Ms. Wiltgen answered they didn’t do that kind of analysis but as she mentioned, this study was to illuminate the needs, address what river crossing capacity means, and brainstorm ideas and determine if they are technically feasible for further consideration. She stated when holding one- on-one conversations, they wanted to learn where the different stakeholders were coming from, their different needs and perspectives. Ms. Wiltgen noted that with a large project like a river crossing, there needs to be a lot of consensus building and this may be a point where local stakeholders come together and start the long process of consensus building. City Administrator Ulrich asked if analysis was done on collector roads farther north and what happens to traffic on Armstrong Boulevard and roads north of Highway 10. Mr. Morris referenced the illustration in the meeting packet that shows travel patterns and projected trips to use a new bridge, noting that once they cross the river, many go east or west along Highway 10, a much smaller portion would continue along Armstrong Boulevard, and by the time you are a mile north of Highway 10, traffic dissipates. Anoka County Commissioner Matt Look commented that his observations would suppose that MnDOT is supportive of Concept 1 and 2 or a variation and that Ramsey and significant users of the Highway 169 Champlin bridge are supporters of Concepts 3 or 4. He assumes that Anoka County would be supportive of this project but it has to be understood that Highway 65 is the County’s top priority right now, that it is well underway with the studies, grants, and funding. Commissioner Look stated having this project drafting a concept behind Highway 65 might be well positioned for the next project in line. He noted it will take some time to tell the story, express the need, and gather support with the legislators that will help to fund the project at the State and federal levels. Commissioner Look stated he reached out to Senator Robbins and suggested getting together with Representatives Lazzaro and Heinrich to discuss opposition. As it relates to the Highway 10 Coalition, he found members have been very helpful in advancing the Highway 10 projects but may not be as enthusiastic about advancing this river crossing project. He noted Coon Rapids and Andover may not show interest, but Anoka and Ramsey would be interested because it impacts people coming through their areas. He stated assuming that Ramsey is supportive of this project, if funding is traditionally the way it has been with MnDOT, the locals will need to take control, get together with those across the river, and determine a time frame. Commission Look pointed out that about every 14 years, project costs double. He estimated that time to design, find project costs, pay for it, and construction time will use 10 years at least so time is of the essence. He stated it depends on when Ramsey wants to push as funding is the key. He stated again that Anoka County would be supportive and willing to be a champion with the understanding that Highway 65 is next in line. Councilmember Riley asked Commissioner Look about the County priorities with Highway 65 being next in line and asked if a third lane on Highway 10 is also high on their list of priorities as most could get behind that project. City Council Work Session / October 12, 2021 Page 6 of 13