Minutes - Public Works Committee - 07/27/1999

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Mr. Kapler stated that last year a prioritization plan was put together. Chairperson Zimmerman expressed disappointment that some of the drainage projects have not been completed. Mr. Kapler reviewed the status of the drainage projects. Chairperson Zimmerman stated that he has been approached by residents on why certain projects haven't been completed and he doesn't have any answers for them. Director of Public Works/Fire Chief Kapler suggested updating the Committee at each meeting of outstanding projects. Councilmember Hendriksen thought an update each month would be a good way to keep the Committee informed on projects. Chairperson Zimmerman suggested putting together a chart that included the date the project was approved, the expected date of completion and the date the project was completed. Mr. Zimmerman questioned if the extension of #116 has helped traffic in the area. Mr. Kapler stated that he has had a few discussions with Police Chief Gustafson in regards to the traffic and that Chief Gustafson had expressed that traffic has gone down substantially in the area and that the neighbors are very pleased. Motion by Chairperson Zimmerman, seconded by Councilmember Hendriksen, to recommend that City Council authorize offers for the necessary right-of-way in the amount of the appraised values. Motion carried. Voting Yes: Chairperson Zimmerman and Councilmember Hendriksen. Voting No: None. Absent: None. Case #2: Consider Tiger Street Speed Limit Director of Public Works Kapler stated that in the early 1990's the City of Ramsey received from Anoka County the 3000-foot section of Tiger Street that extends from C.R. #83 to C.R. #63, after having the pavement upgraded with an overlay. However, the signage along the roadway remains as it existed as a County highway. The City has received a request from one of the residents along Tiger Street to lower the speed limit. The posted limits are 50 mph northbound and 55 mph southbound. These existing limits are confusing and inconsistent with good speed limit policy. Mr. Kapler explained that the City is legally empowered to post 30 mph speed limits in urban areas (State Statue definition) and 55 mph in rural areas. All other limits must be authorized by the Commissioner of Transportation following certain speed and technical studies. The spacing of the properties on the northern portion of this segment may meet the definition of urban segment; however, even prudent drivers may feel comfortable driving faster than 30 mph through Tiger Street. Public Works Committee/July 27, 1999 Page 2 of 5