Minutes - Public Works Committee - 06/20/2000

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northeast corner of the Mark Wilson property. These trees include two mature scotch pines, and one four-inch diameter spruce tree. Alternatively, these trees could remain and have a good chance of survival providing the sidewalk was moved seven feet to the north at this critical point which would eliminate the seven foot gutter terrace between the sidewalk and the curb. This is how the grading and clearing has been left at this point. Staff recommended that a sidewalk be placed on at least one side of Sunwood Drive and that placement of any sidewalk immediately behind the curb be minimized, since this type of placement reduces pedestrian safety and creates substantial additional maintenance. Councihnember Zimmerman inquired if there will be 80 percent federal funding on the portion of the sidewalk through the existing development or only through the new construction. City Engineer Jankowski replied that the City will receive 80 percent funding on the entire portion of the sidewalk. Councihnember Hendriksen stated that the issue should be decided by the entire Council and recommended the item be sent to the Council for further discussion. Motion by Councilmember Hendriksen, seconded by Councilmember Zimmerman, to send the item to the City Council for further discussion. Further Discussion: Councilmember Hendriksen requested that City Engineer Olson receive comments from the residents regarding the sidewalk and then summarize those comments for the next City Council meeting. Councilmember Connolly stated that she would like to include the option of a sidewalk/trail to be constructed on the Lord of Life Property. Motion carried. Voting Yes: Councilmember Zimmerman, and Councilmember Hendriksen. Voting No: None 2) Berm along T.H. #47 City Engineer Jankowski explained that at the pre-construction, public informational meeting, which was held on May 18, 2000, several residents along Waco Street commented that the existing berm along T.H. #47 west of their properties will effectively disappear, since the grade of the highway will be raised substantially in that location. They requested whether the existing berm could be raised to provide some level of visual and noise screening that continually exists. He explained that the height of the berm is limited by two functions, the grade at the back of the east curbline of the highway and the existing bituminous trail. The cost of the additional work is estimated to be about $5,000. Councilmember Zimmerman inquired if the easterly boundary of the trail is adjacent to the right- of-way line. City Engineer Jankowski replied no and reviewed the location. He stated that it would be possible to construct a small retaining wall adjacent to the trail and then construct the berm as high as they would want, but was not sure of the cost. Public Works Committee/June 20, 2000 Page 2 of 7