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<br />the afternoon peak period. It notes that improving the level of service at this intersection will <br />require signalization, which needs MnDOT approval. He inquired if this study could be <br />presented to MnDOT to detennine if they would be willing to look at signalization at this time. <br /> <br />Assistant Public Works Director Olson replied staff has tried to use warrants that were projected <br />in the past. MnDOT has never informed the City they cannot signalize this intersection; however <br />they have never indicated they would provide financial support for a signal. MnDOT would not <br />install a signal until the traffic reaches the required levels. <br /> <br />Mayor Gamec inquired if an easement was required on Trott Brook. <br /> <br />Assistant Public Works Director Olson replied a conservation and trail easement was required. <br /> <br />Councilmember Elvig stated he is pleased with the 1.9 units per acre proposed in the <br />development. <br /> <br />Assistant Publ ic Works Director 01son reviewed the following concerns by staff from an <br />operational perspective: <br /> <br />A1edian: The City has allowed medians to be constructed in public streets, but that has generally <br />been in a long block area. The initial plans indicate that directly off of CR 5 there would be a <br />median for a period of a couple hundred feet. There have been instances with medians in the <br />public roadway where there has not been constant maintenance activity. <br /> <br />Roundabout: Staff has concerns on the design criteria that have been used, which is only a guide <br />at this time. In the guide it is specified that the use of roundabouts is expected to increase in <br />Minnesota. There is a lot to learn about the use and design of roundabouts. Comments are <br />included in the Staff Review Letter regarding the roundabout because staff wants to work the <br />details out in relation to things such as operational and snowplow issues. <br /> <br />Circular median: Staff has significant concerns with the proposed circular median included in <br />the middle of the cul-de-sac. If someone were to park in the cul-de-sac in a party situation it <br />would make access nearly impossible. <br /> <br />Assistant Public Works Director Olson indicated staff has discussed these three issues with the <br />developer. The developer suggested that the roundabout has some validity. The developer wants <br />to make this a beautiful experience when entering the development, and to also slow traffic. The <br />developer seemed willing to remove the median in the middle of the cul-de-sac. <br /> <br />Mayor Gamec notcd if the roundabout does not work out it would likely be easy to remove. It <br />would bc attractive coming into the development with plantings, and he would suggest the <br />maintenance be a responsibility of the homeowners association. He indicated he can envision <br />the possible difficulties with the cul-de-sac median. - <br /> <br />Councilmember Strommen commented Villages of Sunfish Lake has medians in small common <br />areas that have been landscaped nicely. She understands the concerns with the roundabout; <br />however, if the issues could be worked out the traffic calming would be an immense value. <br /> <br />City Council / September 13,2005 <br />Page 14 of 33 <br /> <br />-123- <br /> <br />