Minutes - Public Works Committee - 10/17/2006

Home

Crossing to meet the requirements of a Whistle Free Zone. The resident emailed him a website with possible ways to designate a Whistle Free Zone. The Committee discussed standards for Whistle Free Zones and the planned upgrades at the crossings located at Ramsey, Armstrong and Sunfish Lake Boulevards. Public Works Director Olson indicated the Ramsey, Armstrong and Sunfish Lake Boulevard crossings are being upgraded as part of the Joint Powers Agreement with the County and there are funding mechanisms in place for the upgrades. These crossings are expected to meet Whistle Free standards by 2009; hopefully Alpine Drive could be an add-on project following these crossings. Armstrong Boulevard Reconstruction Project Public Works Director Olson presented the preliminary design of Armstrong Boulevard. He indicated following this project the only improvement regional roadway improvement remaining around the perimeter of Town Center will be CR 116. This road segment cannot be closed down as was done with Ramsey Boulevard; Coborn's has indicated they will be severely hurt if the road is closed and access to the Fire Station cannot be closed. Staff is currently attempting to come up with game plan on how to proceed with the improvements without closing the road. Mr. Olson advised impacts of this project are that there will be a signal located at Alpine Drive, and that the access of 148th Avenue and Armstrong Boulevard will have a median that will prohibit a left from the subdivision. Chairperson Elvig asked if staff has had dialogue with Coborn's and the other businesses that will be affected by the reconstruction project. Public Works Director Olson replied he has not had contact with Coborn's but a marketing team has been set up and it has been communicated that the road will be under construction next year. Coborn's has requested that the road not be closed. Staff sees this as a legitimate concern and will do what can be done to minimize the impact. Mr. Olson indicated Game Fair has requested that the construction not begin until their event is completed next year. This timing does not mesh well, but if the road is not shut down to traffic it may not be a large concern any longer. Chairperson Elvig noted the underpass between Ramsey Town Center and Ramsey Crossings is not included in the plans. Council has stressed that these areas are to be connected. Accident at CR 5(Alpine Drive Intersection Public Works Director Olson reported there was an accident at the CR 5/Alpine Drive intersection yesterday. The County has indicated there will be a recommendation for bigger stop signs at the County Board meeting in two weeks. Mr. Olson indicated he and the Police Chief will be attending the meeting. Public Works Committee /October 17, 2006 Page 10 of 11