4.2. SR 03-24-1997ITEH ~ o 2 o
ity of
MEMORANDUM
iver
FROM:
DATE:
Mayor and City Council
Scott Harlieker, Planning Assistan~
March 24, 1997
SUBJECT: A Resolution of Support Regarding a
Feasibility Study for Multi-modal
Transportation Along the Highway 10/
Burlington Northern Corridor from
Minneapolis to St. Cloud
On March 6, 1997, I attended a meeting in St. Cloud where David Loch,
Sherburne County Administrator, and E1 Tinklenberg, Anoka County Public
Services Division Manager, gave a presentation and led a discussion
regarding a feasibility study for multi-modal transportation along the
Highway 10/Burlington Northern corridor from Minneapolis to St. Cloud.
Funding for the study would come from the federal government via the
Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act (ISTEA).
Required Local Action
Three steps are needed in order to apply for this funding. First, local
governments located within the corridor need to adopt a resolution of support
which indicates the community's support of the study, designates a
representative to develop a joint powers agreement and serve on the joint
powers board, and declares its intent to enter into the agreement if it is
approved by the local governing body. Attached for your review and
consideration is a copy of the resolution.
Second, the joint powers agreement needs to be finalized. This agreement
will establish a joint powers board that will provide a mechanism to
implement the feasibility study. Attached is a copy of a draft joint powers
agreement.
Third, the local governments need to approve the joint powers agreement and
the first meeting of the joint powers board is held.
13065 Orono Parkway · P.O. Box 490 · Elk River, MN 55330 · (612) 441-7420 · Fax: (612) 441-7425
Memo to the Mayor and City Council Page 2
March 24, 1997
Time Frame
In order to be able to submit the application for ISTEA funding within the
require time constraints, the following timeline is suggested:
March 28, 1997- Cities, counties and other governmental units need
to adopt the resolutions of support.
March 31, 1997- Finalize joint powers agreement and send to local
governments for review and approval.
April 22, 1997 - Joint powers agreement signed and first meeting of
joint powers board.
Hi~hli~hts of Presentation
Other main points of the presentation were funding, time frame for funding,
what would be included in the study, and the potential for a commuter rail
link.
· Funding and time frame of funding
A total of 6 million dollars is being requested to be spread out over 3
years, from 1998 to 2000. The money will be used to conduct both the
corridor and environmental phases of the study.
· Scope of the study
The project will examine the feasibility and environmental impacts of
integrated transportation improvements along the corridor. Included
in the study will be population study and demographic analysis, land
use inventory and analysis, and a transportation study including
traffic estimates.
Commuter rail link
The final topic discussed was the possibility of a commuter rail line
connecting St. Cloud and Minneapolis with connections also to the
airport, Mall of America and downtown St. Paul. The rail line would
likely utilize the existing Burlington Northern tracks to a terminus at
Northtown transit hub in Blaine.
Memo to the Mayor and City Council
March 24, 1997
Additional Information
Page 3
Included for your information is a copy of the transportation project
evaluation and response to criteria for special funding which was sent to
Representative Oberstar in support of the application for funding. Also
included, as noted earlier, is a draft copy of the joint powers agreement
establishing the Northstar Corridor Development Authority. You will receive
a finalized copy as soon as one is available.
Cost to the City
According to Article VII of the Draft Joint Powers Agreement, the City may
be asked to contribute some initial funding. The money will be used to cover
start up costs and on going administrative expenses of the Joint Powers
Board which may not be covered by grant funds. The contribution is based
on population, and in Elk River's case, the City may be asked to contribute
$2,000.
Action Required
It has been requested that the City Council consider adopting the attached
resolution of support which indicates Elk River's support of the study,
designates a representative to develop a joint powers agreement and serve on
the joint powers board, and declares Elk River's intent to enter into the
agreement if it is approved by the local governing body.
If the Council decides to adopt the resolution of support, in the second resolve
the Council needs to decide who will represent the City and work with the
elected officials from the other communities on the development and
implementation of the joint powers agreement. It was suggested in the
sample resolution that the representative be an elected official.
s:kplanningkscott\hwy 10cot.doc
RESOLUTION 97-
A RESOLUTION FOR THE CITY OF ELK RIVER
TH10 MULTI-MODAL TRANSPORTATION
CORRIDOR DEVELOPMENT
WHEREAS, Trunk Highway 10 (TH10) from Minneapolis to St. Cloud
is a transportation corridor that runs through the fastest growing area in the
State of Minnesota and such growth has created significant transportation,
safety and land use issues; and,
WHEREAS, there are opportunities for a variety of multi-modal
transportation improvements in the TH10 corridor, including highway
improvements, commuter and freight rail, recreational trails and Intelligent
Transportation System (ITS); and,
WHEREAS, TH10 serves as a primary link between the Twin Cities
metropolitan area and the communities in the corridor from Minneapolis,
north along TH47 north to TH10 northwest to St. Cloud; and,
WHEREAS, such communities wish to collaboratively plan for multi-
modal transportation improvements to the corridor and for the related land
use and development impacts; and,
WHEREAS, the federal ISTEA was adopted to encourage and
facilitate integrated transportation planning along major transportation
corridors and authorizes funding for such corridor planning and development;
and,
WHEREAS, the United States Congress will consider the
reauthorization of ISTEA this year and is consequently requiring that all
applications for ISTEA be submitted as soon as possible for inclusion in the
draft bill.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, THAT:
The City of Elk River strongly supports the development of a
federally financed plan to analyze the feasibility and
environmental impacts of multi-modal transportation
improvements along the TH10 corridor, including highway
improvements, commuter and freight rail, recreational trails,
ITS, safety and related land use issues; and,
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The City of Elk River hereby appoints
to work with elected officials from communities along the
corridor to develop a joint powers agreement, providing a
mechanism to jointly address the need for transportation
enhancements, congestion relief, improved safety and systematic
land use planning; and,
The City of Elk River hereby declares its intent to enter into
such a joint agreement, subject to the review and approval of
this governing body by March 31, 1997.
Passed and adopted by the City Council of the City of Elk River,
Minnesota, this __ day of ., 1997.
Henry A. Duitsman, Mayor
ATTEST:
Sandra A. Thackeray, City Clerk
s:Xdocument\resoluti\th 10.doc
DRAFT - 3/6/97
JOINT POWERS AGREEMENT
ESTABLISHING THE
NORTHSTAR CORRIDOR DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY
THIS AGREEr,IENT, is entered into by and between the undersigned
Counties, Regional Railroad Authorities, Cities, and Townships, all being
governmental units of the State of Minnesota, pursuant to the authority contained
in the Minn. Statutes §§471.59 and 398A.04, subd. 9.
RECITALS
WHEREAS, Trunk Highway 10 (TH10) from Minneapolis to St. Cloud is a
transportation corridor in the fastest growing area in the State of Minnesota and
such growth has created significant transportation, safety and land use issues; and
WHEREAS, there are opportunities for a variety of multi-modal transportation
improvements in the TH10 corridor, including highway improvements, commuter
and freight rail, multi use paths and Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS); and
WHEREAS, TH10 serves as a primary link between the Twin Cites
metropolitan area and the communities in the corridor from Minneapolis, north
along TH47 north to TH10 northwest to St. Cloud; and
WHEREAS, such communities wish to collaboratively plan for multi-modal
transportation improvements to the corridor and for the related land use and
development impacts.
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NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual promises and benefits that
each party shall derive herefrom, the parties agree as follows:
ARTICLEI. PURPOSE
The purpose of the parties in entering into this Agreement is to analyze the
feasibility and environmental impacts of integrated transportation improvements
along the Highway 10 corridor, including highway improvements, commuter and
freight rail, recreational trails, ITS, safety and related land use issues. The method
of accomplishing the purpose of this Agreement is the establishment of a joint
powers board to provide a mechanism whereby the parties can jointly address the
need for enhanced transportation along the corridor, congestion relief, decreased
traveling time, and systematic land use and development planning.
ARTICLEII. JOINT POWERS BOARD MEMBERS AND TERM
The government units that are eligible to participate in this joint powers
agreement include:
Anoka County Regional Railroad Authority
Hennepin County Regional Railroad Authority
Sherburne County Regional Railroad Authority
County of Anoka
County of Sherburne
City of Elk River
City of Big Lake
City of Clear Lake
City of St. Cloud
City of Becker
County of Hennepin
County of Benton
City of Ramsey
City of Anoka
City of Coon Rapids
City of Blaine
City of Sartell
City of Fridley
City of Spring Lake Park
City of Columbia Heights
City of Minneapolis
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City of Sauk Rapids
Big Lake Township
Becket Township
Clear Lake Township
Haven Township
Additional governmental units may be eligible to participate if approved by
the Authority. The terms and conditions of this Agreement shall be effective as to
an eligible participant when the Agreement has been executed by the duly
authorized representatives of that party. This Agreement shall commence when it
has been duly executed by
and shall continue until
terminated as provided herein.
ARTICLE III. JOINT POWERS BOARD
Section 1: Establishment and Composition.
The parties hereby establish a joint powers board to be known as the
Northstar Corridor Development Authority ("Authority") to jointly exercise such
powers and authorities as are necessary to achieve its purposes and fulfill its duties
as provided for in Article tV, subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement.
The Authority shall consist of one elected official each from the member
governmental units. Each member shall be entitled to one vote. This Agreement
defines and establishes the structure and procedures of the Authority, the
responsibilities and powers of the Authority, and the relationship between the
Authority and the member governmental units.
ARTICLE IV. DUTIES OF THE AUTHORITY
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The duties of the Authority shall include the following'
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The Authority shall receive and manage ISTEA grant funding in accordance
with all applicable rules, regulations and other requirements by the Federal
Transit Administration.
The Authority shall assess the need for and analyze the feasibility of multi-
modal transportation improvements in the Corridor, including highway
'improvements, commuter and freight rail, recreational trails, ITS, safety and
related land use issues.
The Authority shall establish such advisory committees a.nd task forces as
needed for the purpose of receiving public input and shall identify appropriate
interested parties, and develop guidelines for public participation.
The Authority shall conduct environmental evaluations, as required by law.
The Authority shall coordinate its activities as necessary with Burlington
Northern Railroad, the Minnesota Department of Transportation and other
necessary entities.
The Authority shall prepare reports addressing implementation issues,
including but not limited to ownership, operation, construction, start-up and
financing.
ARTICLE V. POWERS OF THE AUTHORITY
Section 1' General Powers.
The Authority is hereby authorized to exercise such powers as is necessary
and proper to fulfill its purpose'and perform its duties. Such powers shall include
those specific powers enumerated in Section 2 of this Article. The Authority may
DRAFT - 3~6~97
refer decisions for approval by the governing bodies of its member governmental
units. The Authority shall not have the power to levy property taxes nor the power
to issue bonds.
Section 2: Specific Powers.
A. The Authority shall adopt an annual budget, together with a statement of the
sources of funding and an estimate of the proportion of such amounts
required of each governmental unit, in accordance with the provisions set
forth in Article VII.
B. The Authority may enter into any contract necessary or proper for the
ex'ercise of its powers or the fulfillment of its duties and enforce such
contracts to the extent available in equity or at law. The Authority may
approve any contract relating to this Agreement up to the amount approved
in the annual budget, and may authorize the Chair of the Authority to
execute those contracts. No payment on any invoice for services performed
by a consultant or any other person or organization providing services in
connection with this Agreement shall be authorized unless approved by the
Executive Committee.
The Authority may provide for the employment, discipline or discharge of
personnel required to accomplish the purpose of the Agreement.
The Authority may disburse funds in a manner which is consistent with the
method provided by law for the disbursement of funds by counties, as well
as any federal or State requirements.
The Authority shall have the power to adopt such by-laws that it may deem
necessary or desirable for the conduct of this business of the Authority.
Such by-laws shall be consistent with this Agreement and any applicable
laws or regulations.
The Authority may apply for and accept gifts, grants or loans of money,
other property or assistance from the United States Government, the State
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of Minnesota, or any person, association or agency for any of its purposes;
enter into any agreement in connection therewith; and hold, use and dispose
of such money, other property and assistance in accordance with the terms
of this gift, grant or loan relating thereto.
The Authority may hold such property as may be required to accomplish the
purposes of this Agreement and upon termination of this Agreement, make
distribution of such property as is provided for in this Agreement.
The Authority may purchase insurance as is deemed advisable and may take
action to enforce its rights in equity or in law.
Section 3: Exercise of Powers.
All powers granted herein shall be exercised by the Authority in accordance
with the legal requirements applicable to counties. In accordance with Minn. Stat.
§ 471.59, subd. 3, the purchasing and contracting requirements of the county
selected pursuant to Article VII, Section 4 shall apply to the Authority.
ARTICLE VI. STRUCTURE AND PROCEDURES
Section 1: Terms.
Each representative and alternate shall be appointed for two year terms,
beginning January 1, by resolution of the appointing governing body. In the event
that any representative or alternate shall not have been appointed by January 1 in
any year, the incumbent representative shall serve until a successor has been
appointed. Removal of any representative or alternate during the term for which
the representative has been appointed may be done at any time but shall be done
only by resolution of the appointing governing body. Resolutions of any governing
body under this section shall be filed at the Office of Administration,
County Courthouse, , Minnesota.
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Section 2: Chair and Vice Chair.
The Authority shall elect a Chair and Vice Chair from its membership at its
first regular meeting. The Chair and Vice Chair shal', be elected by the Authority
from its membership for a two year term. The Chair shall preside at all meetings of
the Authority and shall perform other duties and functions as may be determined by
the Authority. The Vice Chair shall preside over and act for the Authority during
the absence of the Chair. The Vice Chair shall also perform the duties and
functions of the Treasurer as provided for in the by-laws. If both the Chair and
Vice Chair are absent, the Authority may elect a temporary chair to conduct its
business, provided a quorum is present.
Section 3: Executive Committee.
The Authority shall establish an Executive Committee of the Authority
consisting of five members, including one representative from a city, a town, a
county and a regional railroad authority, as well as the Chair of the Authority. The
Authority may establish such other subcommittees as may be needed from time to
time. The Executive Committee shall be responsible for approving invoices within
approved contract amounts, addressing personnel issues and performing such other
duties as set forth in the Authority's bylaws.
Section 4: Staff.
Each member governmental unit shall provide staff support to the Authority,
if necessary.
Section 5: Vacancies.
If an appointment of any representative or alternate is vacated before the end
of the term, the vacancy shall be filled by appointment by the appropriate
appointing governing body. Vacancies shall be filled within thirty (30) days of their
occurrence. A vacancy shall be deemed to have occurred when any of the
DRAFT - 3/6/97
conditions specified in Minn. Stat. § 351.02 exist, or if a representative fails to
qualify or act as an elected official.
Section 6: Meetings. .,
An initial organizational meeting of the Authority shall be held at
on , 1997, at Thereafter, the Authority shall meet at regular
meetings at such times and places as the Authority shall establish in its bylaws.
Special meetings may be held on reasonable notice by the Chair or any two
representatives upon terms and conditions as the Authority may determine.
ARTICLE VII. FUNDING
Section 1: Initial Funding.
It is understood by the parties that the activities and duties of the Authority
are to be funded primarily by grant monies from the United States Government, the
State of Minnesota or any other association or agency. Nevertheless, the parties
agree to contribute funding, if necessary, for the start-up and on-going
administrative expenses of the Board (to the extent not covered by grant funds).
The parties agree to contribute initial funding as follows:
Governmental units with a population of 5,000 or less shall contribute
$500
· Governmental units with a population of 5,001 to 10,000 shall
contribute $1,000
· Governmental units with a population of greater than 10,000 shall
contribute $2,000
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Each member shall pay its appropriate initial contribution to the county acting
as fiscal agent of the Authority within 30 days of execution of this Agreement.
Section 2: On-Going Administrative Expenses.
A. By July 1 of each year, the Authority shall adopt an annual budget for the
following calendar year, and shall determine the amount of contribution, if any, by
each member. The budget and the resulting assessments shall be approved bya
two-thirds majority of the Authority. The assessments shall be made in the same
proportions set forth in Section 1. If, in any year, the amount of any contribution
exceeds that estimated as each member's share toward the total annual cost, the
excess shall be allocated in such manner as to reduce each member's contribution
in accordance with the assessment formula herein.
B. If the Authority incurs any expenses as a result of a claim for damages, the
expenses and any damages paid shall be assessed against each member in the
same manner as in the assessment formula described in paragraph A above, as
applicable.
Section 3: Time of Payment.
Except for the initial contribution, all assessments made under the provisions
of this Article shall be paid by each member by January 1 of each year unless the
member has withdrawn pursuant to Article VIII.
Section 4: Budgeting and Accounting Services.
The Authority may contract with one of its member counties to provide any
and all budgeting and accounting services necessary or convenient for the
Authority. Such services shall include, but not be limited to: management of all
funds, including county contributions and grant monies; payment for contracted
services; and relevant bookkeeping and recordkeeping. The contracting and
DRAFT - 3/6/97
purchasing requirements of the County so selected shall apply to transactions of
the Authority. The chief financial officer of the County so selected shall act as
controller for the Authority and shall draw warrants to pay demands against the
Authority when the demands have been approved by the Authority.
Section 5: Accountability for Funds.
All funds shall be accounted for according to generally acceptable accounting
principles. A report on all receipts and disbursements shall be forwarded to the
Authority on an annual basis. The members have the authority to request reports
pertaining to any and all budgeting and accounting services. All interest earned
from established Authority funds shall be credited back to that same fund.
ARTICLE VIII. WITHDRAWAL AND TERMINATION
Section 1'. Withdrawal.
Any party may withdraw on December 31 of any year by giving written
notice on or before August 1 of that year to the Chair of the Authority. Notice shall
be a certified copy of a resolution of its governing body indicating its intent to
withdraw from this Agreement. Upon receipt of the resolution, the Chair of the
Authority shall forward a copy of the resolution to each of the members. In the
event of withdrawal by any member body, this Agreement shall remain in full force
and effect as to all remaining member bodies.
Section 2: Effect of Withdrawal.
Withdrawal by any member shall not terminate this Agreement except as
provided in Section 3, herein. Withdrawal shall not act to discharge any liability
incurred or chargeable to any member before the effective date of withdrawal.
Such liability shall continue until appropriately discharged by law or agreement.
No
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DRAFT - 3~6~97
member shall be entitled to a refund of assessments paid, or forgiveness of such
assessments owed, to the Authority.
Section 3: Termination.
This Agreement shall terminate upon the occurrence of any one of the
following events:
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When members withdraw pursuant to Section 1 so that, in the judgment of
the Authority, it becomes impractical or uneconomical to continue.
When necessitated by operation of law or as a result of a decision by a court
of competent jurisdiction.
When a majority of the parties agree, by resolution adopted by the respective
governing bodies, to terminate this Agreement.
Section 4: Effect of Termination.
Termination shall not discharge any liability incurred by the Authority or by
the members during the term of this Agreement. The Authority shall continue to
operate after the date of termination only for the purpose of winding up its business
and for aiding in the prosecution and defense of claims. Property or surplus money
acquired by the Authority shall be distributed to the members in proportion to
contributions of the contracting members. The Authority shall approve a final
report of its activities and affairs and, on the expiration of thirty (30) days
therefrom, shall cease to exist.
ARTICLEIX. MISCELLANEOUS
Section 1: Amendments.
This Agreement may be amended by agreement of a majority of the parties
as evidenced by resolutions adopted by the respective governing bodies. Article
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VII, Section 2 and Article VIII, Sections 1 and 2 may be amended only by
unanimous agreement of the parties.
Section 2: Records, Accounts and Reports.
The Authority shall establish and maintain such funds and accounts as may
be required by good accounting practices. The books and records of the Authority
shall be subject to the provisions of Minn. Stat. Chapter 13, the Minnesota
Government Data Practices Act, and Minn. Stat. § 16B.04. The Authority, within
one hundred and twenty (1 20) days after the close of each fiscal year, which shall
be January 1 to December 31, shall give a complete written report of all financial
activities for such fiscal year to the parties.
Section 3: C~unterDarts.
This Agreement may be executed in two or more counterparts, each of
which shall be deemed an original, but all of which shall constitute one and the
same instrument.
Section 4: Severability.
The provisions of this Agreement are severable. If any paragraph, section,
subdivision, sentence, clause, or phrase of the Agreement is for any reason held to
be contrary to law, or contrary to any rule or regulation having the force and effect
of law, such decision shall not affect the remaining portions of this Agreement.
Section 5: Alternative Dispute Resolution.
In the event of a dispute arising under this Agreement, the parties and the
Authority agree to attempt to resolve their dispute by following the process
described below:
A. A party shall provide written notice to the Authority describing perceived
conflict, positions and underlying reasons.
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The Authority or member shall provide written response to notice with 7
days of receipt of notice.
The parties shall meet within 14 days of receipt of response with a neutral
facilitator. The neutral facilitator will be a representative from the Minnesota
Office of Dispute Resolution.
At the first meeting, the neutral facilitator will assist the parties in identifying
the appropriate parties and participants in the dispute resolution process,
their concerns, a meeting agenda and design for any subsequent meetings.
The parties shall agree on a process for resolving the problem that would
involve additional negotiations, mediation or arbitration.
In developing the process, the parties will be guided by the following
principles: ..
1) 'The parties will attempt in good faith to reach a negotiateci settlement.
2) The parties agree that there must be fair representation of the parties
directly involved in the dispute.
3) The parties will use legal proceedings as a last resort.
4) In the event the parties are unable to resolve the dispute, each party
retains all rights, remedies or defenses it had prior to entering the
process.
The parties will report to the Authority within 60 days of their first meeting
on the resolution of the dispute or a recommendation to commence legal
proceedings.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties to this Agreement have hereunto set
their hands on the date written below:
COUNTY OF ANOKA
Office of the County Board of Commissioners
C, O VERNME~ CEN'YER
2100 3rd Avenue · Anoka, M~nneaota 55303-2489
(612) 323-5680
COUNTY OF SI~ERBURNE
Office of the County Board of Commissioners
OO VERNMflENT CENTER
13880 Highway 10 - Elk River, Minnesota 55330
(612) 241-2701
February 24, 1997
The Honorable James Oberstar
United States House of Representatives
District 8
2366 Rayburn House Office Building
Washington, DC 20515
SUBJECT: TH 10 Multi-modal Transportation Corridor Development Funding
Dear Representative Oberstar:
Attached is the completed transportation project evaluation and response to criteria for special
funding for this critical project that we have previously discussed with you. There is also a draft letter
to Congressman Rahall for your consideration and signature.
Thank you very much for your consideration and continuing support for funding transportation
facilities in this rapidly developing corridor.
Sincerely,
Anoka County Board of Commissioners
Paul McCarron, Chair
Anoka County Regional Rail Authority
ET:kr
Attachments
Bet. sy L. Wergin, Chair
Sherburne County Board of Commissioners
Anoka Co: FAX (612) 323-5682 Affirmative Action / Equal Opportunity Employers Sherburne Co: FAX: (612) 241-2995
February 24, 1997
The Honorable Nick Joe Rahall
Ranking Member
Surface Transportation Subcommittee
House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee
B-375 Raybum House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Rahall:
This is a request for specific funding for a critical transportation need in the State of Minnesota.
It is a multi-modal transportation study and program for the Minneapolis to St. Cloud corridor,
the State's fastest urbanizing corridor.
The many units of government in the corridor believe that proactively planning and providing for
transportation improvements within this essential, regional corridor is fundamentai to its long-
term viability, as the surrounding land uses rapidly change from rural to urban. A special joint
powers development agency, representing counties, regional rail authorities, cities and townships
is being established to administer the project.
We are requesting $6 million in federal funds to conduct both the corridor and environmental
phases of the study. A three year funding schedule is proposed. The attached transportation
project evaluation responds directly to the Subcommittee's criteria for project consideration, and
illustrates the public need for the improvement.
Thank you for your consideration of this critical transportation need in the State of Minnesota's
most rapidly urbanizing corridor.
Sincerely,
James L. Oberstar
Ranking Democratic Member
Attachment
TRANSPORTATION PROJECT EVALUATION CRITERIA
FOR
TRUNK HIGHWAY 10 MULTIMODAL TRANSPORTATION CORRIDOR
DEVELOPMENT
February 1997
Submitted to:
Subcommittee on Surface Transportation
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure
Congress of the United States
Submitted by:
Anoka County Regional Railroad Authority
on behalf of the
TH 10 Multimodal Transportation Corridor Development Authority
..... 2100 Third Avenue
Anoka, Minnesota 55303
(Phone: 612-323-5680)
(Fax: 612-323-5682)
TRANSPORTATION PROJECT EVALUATION CRITERIA
FOR
TRUNK HIGHWAY 10 MULTIMODAL TRANSPORTATION CORRIDOR
DEVELOPMENT
Name and Congressional District of the primary. Member of Congress sponsoring the project, as
well as any other Members supporting the project.
Primary Sponsor:
James Oberstar, Minnesota 8th Congressional District
Supporting Member:
William Luther, Minnesota 6th Congressional District
Identify the State or other qualified recipient responsible for carrying out the project.
A TH 10 Multimodal Transportation Corridor Development Authority (TH I0 MTCDA) is being
established to carry out the project. This organization will be formed as a joint powers board,
with the following members:
Anoka County Regional Railroad Authority
Hennepin County Regional Railroad Authority
Sherbume County Regional Railroad Authority
County of Anoka
County of Sherbume
City of Elk River
City of Big Lake
City of Clear Lake
City of St. Cloud
City of Becker
City of Ffidley
City of Spring Lake Park
City of Columbia Heights
City of Minneapolis
County of Hennepin
County of Benton
City of Ramsey
City of Anoka
City of Coon Rapids
City of Blaine
City of Sartell
City of Sauk Rapids
Big Lake Township
Becker Township
Clear Lake Township
Haven Township
In the interm.period while the TH 10 MTCDA is being established, Anoka County Regional
Railroad Authority will act as responsible agency for the project.
#24256 1
o
Is the project eligible,for the use o, f Federal-aid funds (ifa road or bridge project, please note
whether it is on the National Highway System)?
The TH 10 Corridor project is anticipated to enter the Major Investment Study phase
mandated by Titles 23 and 49 USC. Section 3 funds are being requested for planning
and design phases of the project.
Trunk Highway 10 in the study area is on the National Highway System. Trunk
Highway 10 also connects the areas of two Metropolitan Planning Organizations
(MPOs) and two Minnesota Department of Transportation districts.
Describe the design, scope and objectives of the project and whether it is part of a larger
system of projects. In doing so, identify the specific segment for which project funding is
being sought, including terminus points.
This project will analyze the feasibility and environmental impacts of integrated
transportation improvements along the TH 10 corridor, the primary direct link
between the northern Twin Cities region and St. Cloud, Minnesota. The corridor also
includes the Burlington Northern/Santa Fe Railroad Staples-Selba Line, the primary
rail link between the Twin Cities, northwest Minnesota, and the northwestern United
States. Transportation improvements to be addressed include safety improvements,
highway improvements, commuter and freight rail service, recreational trails,
Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS), and related land use issues.
The TH 10 corridor is the fastest growing area in the state, and is projected to
experience even greater growth over the next 25 years. This project provides a
mechanism to jointly address the needs in the corridor. Project objectives include:
Strengthen the linkage between Minneapolis and St. Cloud, two of the state's
economic and educational centers, with multirnodal transportation options
Improve safety, with particular attention to highway/railroad interface areas
Enhance transportation service for vehicular, transit and freight travel
Evaluate the potential for commuter rail service
Implement a high-quality link to metro area transit service and major
destinations including MSP International Airport, the University of Minnesota,
and the Mall of America
Provide recreational trails and connections to existing and planned recreational
facilities
Relieve congestion
Systematically address land use and development in the corridor.
The corridor .t~rmini are downtown Minneapolis and St. Cloud, Minnesota. Funding
is sought for' planning and preliminary, development work for the full 60-mile
corridor.
What is the total project cost and proposed source of funds (please identify the federal, state or
local shares and the extent, if any, of private sector financing or the use of innovative
financing) and of this amount, how much is being requested for the specific project segment
described in item #4?
Planning and development for the TH 10 corridor is anticipated to cost $6 million.
A combination of Federal (Section 3), State, county, local and private sector financing
will be sought. The private sector funding is expected to include innovative
financing, possibly focused on the improved economic and educational linkages
anticipated as result of the project.
Of the amount requested, how much is expected to be obligated over each of the next 5 years?
A three-year funding schedule is anticipated, with the federal share, 1/2 from Federal
Highway Administration capital account and 1/2 from Federal Transit Administration
capital account, to be allocated as follows:
FY 1998 $2.0M
FY 1999 $2.0M
FY 2000 $2.0M
FY 2001 0
Major Investment Study (MIS)/Environmental Clearance
MIS/Preliminary Engineering/Environmental Clearance
Preliminary Engineering and Final Design
Implementation
Total: $6M
o
What is the proposed schedule and status of work on the project?
FY 1997
FY 1998
lZh' 1999
FY 2000
FY 2001
Establish TH 10 MTCDA/Develop scope of MIS
MIS with Draft Environmental Impact Statement
Complete MIS/Begin preliminary engineering/Final EIS
Complete preliminary engineering and develop final design
Implementation
Is the project included in the metropolitan and/or State transportation improvement plan(s), or
the State long-range plan, and if so, is it scheduled for funding?
The project is not currently in a metropolitan or State TIP, as it crosses the
boundaries of two separate Minnesota Department of Transportation districts and two
separate Metropolitan Planning Organizations. In addition, the project will be the
first comprehensive study of the corridor, and as such is not yet sufficiently
developed to be in a TIP.'
Because it links two distinct metropolitan areas with smaller rural communities in
between, this project presents something of a dilemma for both of the agencies
charged with developing transportation policy and implementation guidelines in the
project area. The central segment of the corridor is outside the urban boundary of
the Twin Cities and the developed area surrounding St. Cloud. In recognition of
changing employment and commuting patterns, Sherburne Coun ,fy, a small part of
which is within the City of St. Cloud, was included in the Twin Cities Metropolitan
Statistical Area by the U.S. Bureau of the Census in 1993.
Both Minnesota Department of Transportation and Metropolitan Council plans cite the
need for increased coordination and planning between the metro region and adjacent
counties, particularly in situations like TH 10 where rapid growth is occurring and
projected to continue. The Mn/DOT Metro District Transportation System Plan
recommends a corridor management study for TH 10. The plan identifies a "Further
Study and Coordination" strategy for the corridor, stating "TH 10 is an important
link for people and goods traveling to and through Anoka County... It also serves a
state function in connecting Big Lake, Clearwater and other areas.., with the
metropolitan area" (p.63). Mn/DOT projects capacity deficiencies in year 2015 on TH
10, even after full metro system management improvements are implemented (see
figure attached).
The Metropolitan Council's Regional Blueprint recognizes that in many ways the
metropolitan region is larger than the seven-county metropolitan area. The Blueprint
addresses changing transportation conditions in adjacent counties, proposes policies
which support growth management and transportation planning in counties adjacent
to the Twin Cities, and encourages counties to coordinate their planning with the
Council's. The Council has identified as a Partnership action: "Initiate discussions
with areas adjacent to the seven-county area to explore transportation, land use and
development issues of mutual concern." The Blueprint also states: "Development and
transportation issues involving the Twin Cities region and adjacent areas should be
jointly discusses and analyzed, and potential solutions recommended" (p.51).
Is the project considered by State and/or regional transportation officials as critical to their
needs? Please provide a letter of support from these officials, and if you cannot, explain why
not.
Yes, the TH 10 Corridor is recommended for study in the Mn/DOT Metro Division
Transportation System Plan, as noted above. The Metropolitan Council's
Transportation Development Guide/Policy Plan supports many of the objectives of
the TH 10 Corridor study, including the following:
Development of various modes and modal connections to adequately serve the
movement of freight and provide effective linkages to state, national and
international markets (Policy 12)
Implementation of a regional network of transitways. The Plan specifically
does not preclude technologies such as commuter rail (Policy 5), and supports
an incremental approach to implementation.
The need to make the transit system more compatible with different land use
patterns and socioeconomic conditions (Policy 6)
Land use considerations in meeting infrastructure needs (p.4-12).
Letters of support are pending and will be forwarded. (Attach letters of support -
Anoka County)
#242.~ 4
10.
Does the project have national or regional significance?
The TH 10 Corridor has regional, statewide and national significance. This corridor is
the primary transportation route for rail, truck freight, and automobile travel between
the northern Twin Cities area and St. Cloud. The multiple modes now operating in
the corridor are each suffering from increasing congestion and declining safety, with
no other vehicle currently available to address the corridor systematically and provide
integrated safety and capacity enhancements for all modes.
St. Cloud, one of the state's freestanding and rapidly growing economic centers, is
also home to St. Cloud State University, St. John's University, and St. Benedict
College. TH 10 links this booming growth corridor with Anoka County and the
economic, education and transportation opportunities in the Twin Cities. The corridor
also serves as a gateway to tourism in central and northern Minnesota.
The corridor provides an essential link to the Twin Cities regional highway system
and MSP International Airport. The Burlington Northern/Santa Fe Railroad line in
the corridor is the railroad's main line to the northern Midwest and the northwestern
United States. Through access to the region's core transit network, links are provided
to St. Paul and the University of Minnesota, one of the nation's premier educational
and medical facilities.
11.
Has the proposed project encountered, or is it likely to encounter, any sign~Cicant opposition or
other obstacles based on environmental or other types of concern?
No significant areas of opposition are expected.
12.
Describe the economic, energy efficiency, environmental, congestion mitigation, and safety
benefits associated with completion of the project.
Economic Benefits: This project will improve safety, truck and rail freight movements,
transit service, and vehicular capacity along TH 10 between St. Cloud and the Twin
Cities. Multimodal transportation improvements developed in a systematic program
will better accommodate the cross-regional trips between the two economic centers
and major intermodal terminals for rail and air passenger and freight transportation.
Corridor improvements will also facilitate this route's function as a gateway to
tourism, which contributes greatly to the economies of central and northern
Minnesota.
Energy Efficiency: A fully multimodal corridor with commuter rail service and non-
motorized trails for recreational and distance bicycle travel would strengthen the
region's focus on moving more people, rather than more vehicles. The transit focus
increases both the efficiency of existing transportation facilities and the energy
efficiency gained with increased transit ridership rather than travel in single-occupant
vehicles. Improved safety and travel times for the movement of goods as well as
people will significantly improve the energy efficiency of the major truck movements
in the corridor.
#24~56 5
Environmental B~nefit~: By managing the corridor to improve safety and provide
multimodal improvements, transportation capacity can be maximized within existing
right-of-way. By making more and better connections possible using transit, vehicle
miles of travel in the corridor can be reduced, producing fewer pollutant emissions.
Congestion Mitigati~)n: The two major transportation planning agencies in Twin
Cities region, Mn/DOT and the Metropolitan Council, have just completed
comprehensive transportation plans for the metropolitan transportation ne.~work.
Major highway capacity improvements will not be feasible under current and
projected funding conditions. As a result, living with congestion will be a given for
the Twin Cities.
The attached figure from Mn/DOT's Metro Division Transportation System Plan
illustrates that TH 10 will be congested in year 2015 even with full metro highway
system management.
The Council's focus, like Mn/DOT's, has been on preserving and managing the
existing system. As previously noted, the Council considers transitways to be a
system and congestion management tool to be proactively developed in key corridors.
By improving travel time and connections for transit users, a transitway increases the
attractiveness, competitiveness, and efficiency of transit as a mode of travel. A
transit facility within this high growth corridor offers the potential to reduce the
growing volume of cars flowing into the Twin Cities principal arterials in this section
of the metropolitan area.
Safe _ty Benefit~: The close proximity of the railroad and the roadway network
presents safety problems which have been growing along with the movement of
people and goods in the corridor. Access management is also a growing issue, as
land use and development patterns are undergoing rapid change. This project offers
the opportunity to address safety in a comprehensive, proactive manner, taking into
consideration all of the transportation movements projected to occur in the corridor.
13.
Has the project received funding through the State's federal aid highway apportionment, or in
the case of a transit project, through Federal Transit Administration funding? If not, why
not?
The project has not received Federal Highway Administration or Federal Transit
Administration funding. This request is the first to be submitted.
14.
Is the authorization requested for the project an increase to an amount previously authorized
or appropriated for it in federal statute (if so, please identify the statute, the amount provided,
and the amount obligated to date), or would this be the first authorization for the project in
federal statute? If the authorization requested is for a transit project, has it previously
received appropriations and/or received a Letter of Intent or has FTA entered into a Full
Funding Grant Agreement for the project?
This would be the first authorization for the project.
6
HENNEPIN
· 94. t ///
CARVER
SCOTT
WASHINGTON
Northtown
Transit Hub
RAMSEY ,,'
/
Saint
Pa u l
Northstar
Corridor
Downtown
Minneapolis
Downtown
St. Paul
Riverview
Corridor
N
Hiawatha
Corridor
MSP
Airport
Mall of
America
METROPOLITAN LIGHT RAIL TRANSIT JOINT POWERS BOARD
Proposed Transitways
ISTEA Applications
~lue Hill Township
In Blue Hill Township where
~oger Nelson and Brent Yuker
hallenged each other for the
upervisor job that Rod Cooli
.ad decided to leave, Nelson
~on ~- 55 votes. Cook had
.ne nt ,fighest total with 27
,rite-in votes, while Yuker
eceived' 15. A controversy
ver zoning was at the center
f the race.
urns Township
Burns Township had a quiet
nnual meeting, compared to
)me in the past.
Only 23 attended the March
1 meeting.
Incumbents Randy Bettinger
etter."
The advertising argument,
owever, was echoed in some
~ the council members' com-
ments.
"I guess I don't understand
hy a 35-foot flag is not patti-
:lc and a 70-foot flag is,"
ouncil Member Dietz said.
He said people associate the
.rge ~g with Perkins,
idin8 ; bothers me that
~ople would hide behind the
rise of patriotism for adver-
smg purposes."
Viayor Duitsman said: "I do
ink that it's a marketing
lng for the Perkins restau-
nt.'
~ouncil Member Farber,
~wever, argued strongly in
vor of the 70-foot flag pole.
{e pointed out that there
~s been no opposition to Cub
.22,168 went to that fund.
:he lottery is the most popu-
r form of gambling in the
~te, according to a 1994 sur-
y conducted by St. Cloud
ate University. Sixty-three
rcent of Minnesotans have
-~yed the lottery, compared to
percent who have played
lltabs and 36 percent who
ve visited an Indian casino.
'ea lottery ticket sales
,ottm ticket sales in
.erbm_ ~ County were at
and Myron Burquest were re-
elected.
Other members are: Randi
'Erickson, Leon Ohman and
Bill Schulz. Permy Smeby is
the clerk-treasurer.
The town board set. a levy of
$265,000, including $115,S00
for the road and bridge fund.
The upcoming centennial of
Nowthen .was discussed. It
will be June 27, 2S and 29. A
parade, program and the pub-
lishing of a centennial book
are planned..
The regulations on feedlots
were discussed, but no motion
was made.
Those attending the meeting
were invited to view the new
Foods' 50-foot flag pole.
Council Member Thompson
also favored the 70~foot pole.
He said. he doesn't beheve
that Perkins' flying the flag is
a representation of an adver-
tisement.
City Attorney Peter Beck
said the city has no legal obhg-
ation to allow an increase in
the. height of the Perkins flag
pole.
Smith and the city agreed
that the flag pole was not gov-
erned under the city's sign
ordinance, which does not reg-
ulate "flags of any nation."
The flag pole issue came up
as part of Perkins' request to
expand the restaurant from
4,160 to 5,610 square feet. The
council unanimously approved
the expansion.
$4.2 mi]Hon in 1996, up 4 per-.
cent over 1995.
Wright County's lottery sales
increased 8 percent to $7 mil-
lion. ·
In the city o~ Ramsey, lottery
ticket sales increased 3 per-
cent to $962,021.
Rogers' lottery. ~icket .sales
declined about 1 percent, from
$602,533. to $598,507. '
In Zirnmerman, lottery sales
rose 17 percent to $535,904· '
maintenance facility, wtfich is
next to the recycling center.
Hassan Township
Diane Peterson, Hassan
Township clerk for 18 years, is
now a member of the Hassan
Township Board.
She' defeated incumbent Dick
Martin by a vote of 209 to 90.
David F~hr, the other incum-
bent, won over Robin Sahr,
191 to 105 votes.
-The board did agree to raise
the compensation for election
judges to $7 an hour.
Livonia Township
Roger Wallin, 'who was unop-
posed in his r~-election bid for
Transport
Continued from page 1
evaluation of the project con-
ducted by the Anoka County
Regional Railroad AuthoriW.
This week, the Sherburne
County Board of
Commissioners was scheduled
to adopt a resolution and a
joint powers agreement on the
Northstar Corridor
Transportation Authority.
The authority, which will
carry out the project, is cur-
rently being formed as a joint
powers board. Board members
will represent the following:
· railroad authorities for the
counties of Sherburne, Anoka,
and Hennepin
· Sherburne, Anoka,
Hennepin and Benton counties
· the cities of Elk River, Big
Lake,. Clear Lake, St. Cloud,
Becket, Fridley, Spring Lake
Park, Columbia Heights,
Minneapolis, Ramsey, Anoka,
Coon Rapids, Blaine, Sartell
and Sauk Rapids
· the townships of Big Lake,
Becker, Clear Lak~ and Haven
Until the group is established,
the Anoka County Regional
Railroad Authority will be the
responsible agency for the pro-
ject.
The Highway 10 corridor is
the fastest-growing area in the
state, and is expected to experi-
ence even greater growth over
the next 25 years. A represen-
tative of the Anoka rail author-
ity said the project provides a
mechanism to jointly address
Livonia Township supervisor,
received 38 votes.
Patti Kuyper, who was also
unopposed :for-the treasurer's
:position, received 35 votes.
About 40 people attended the
annual :~township meeting
Tuesday night. Among the top-
.ics discussed was a proposal
by the city of Zimmerman to
annex some township land.
Orrock Township
Dorothy Meyer was re-elect-
ed treasurer and Jerry
Petersen was elected supervi-
sor.
the needs in the corridor.
A three-year funding schedule
has been proposed allocating
the requested $6 million to be
disbursed 'in $.2 million incre-
ments through the year 2000,
according to a project evalua-
tion performed by the Anoka
County Region Raft Authority.
· "Highwa); 10 is the primary
l. ransportation 'route for rail,
truck freight and automobfle
travel between the northern
Twin Cities area and St. Cloud.
The multiple modes now oper-
ating in the corridor are each
suffering from increasing con-
gestion and declining safety,
with no other vehicle currently
available to address the corri-
dor systematically and provide
integrated safety and capacit,y,
enhancements for all modes,
stated the project evaluation.
The evaluation further stated
the project would:
· improve safety, truck and
rail freight movements, transit
service, and vehicular ~:apacity
along Highway 10
· streng~ahen the repons' focus
on moving more 'people, rather
than more vehicles with a fully
multi-modal corridor including
a commuter raft service and
non-motorized trails for dis-
tance bicycle travel
· focus on the efficiency of
existing transportation facili-
ties and the energy efficiency
gained with increased transit
· ridership rather than travel in
single-occupant vehicles.
Girl Scout
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