The URL can be used to link to this page

4.1. SR 04-28-1997~ty of iver TO: FROM: DATE: SUBJECT: Item # 6.1. MEMORANDUM Mayor & City Council ~~tri~l::r~:~ty Admin~ Fencing Issue The city has received a request to place the issue of fencing along Highway 169 from 193rd Avenue to Main Street on the City Council agenda. Attached is this request along with some background information on "how the fence project got to this point". Regarding this letter requesting this agenda item, please note that Doctor Eng has requested to have his name removed from the list. The total cost for the fence for both sides of Highway 169 from Main Street to 193ra Avenue is estimated at $160,000 for a five foot fence. The city may ultimately ask for a six foot fence if this project proceeds. The city, under normal circumstances, would be obligated for 40 percent of this cost as a local match. However, if the city agrees to maintain the fence, we may have the entire capital cost financed by MnDOT. Per direction from the City Council on 3/31/97, the city has asked for this to happen, and we know that in the long run, maintenance of the fence may ultimately be more expensive than the capital cost for the project. Regarding the timing of the fencing project, please see the attached 3/31/97 MnDOT letter whereby, at the end of the letter, it is suggested that the fencing and lighting projects proceed together. The lighting project has already received preliminary approval and is scheduled to be funded in July, 1997. An unknown at this time is whether or not MnDOT would fund less than the total proposed fence project. By this I mean the city does not know if MnDOT would fund the fence project if it was only between School Street and 193ra Avenue, or if it was only on the east side between School Street and 193~a Avenue, or if it was only on the west side of Highway 169 south of School Street and on the east side north of School Street. Also attached for your information is a letter from MnDOT dated April 11, 1997, regarding the city's concern about the red/red timing on the signals. 13065 Orono Parkway · P.O. Box 490 · Elk River, MN 55330 · (612) 441-7420 · Fax: (612) 441-7425 Jt~T~ECH AUTOMOTI~,~ INC. 279 CARSON ~TREET ELK RIVER, MN 55330 (612)441-4653 DEAR ELK RIVER CITY CO~IJNCIL MEMBERS TO WHOM IT MAY CONU"~RI~. ELK RIVER AREA BUSINESSES L~)~CATED/~ONG HIGHWAY ARE REQLIESTtNG A MEETING OIlI~AF~,IL 28, 199'7 REGUARDING THE FENCING OF"'~G~AY 16t~t;~RO~ 193~ MAIN STREET. MANY OF US ARE OPPOSED AND WOU~E TO DiSCUSS~ THIS MATTER. qq/-/'7 o~ IIIIBB &teerterson Chiropractic TO: COMPANY: FAX #: FROM: PAGES: / (Includ~g this one) Message: /"or prob/em.v with Your (.;uide 77) Bet/er Health ~ Carson Street ilk River, MN 55330 (~12)241-9500 ~m ABI~ Auto Body & Glass in Elk is (612)241.0584. this cover sheet and 0 additional MEMORANDUM To: City Council From: Dick Erickson, Pastor Central Lutheran Date: April 23, 1997 I would be at this meeting if I didn't have to lead a community grief/support group this evening. It is my hope that we will have the hindsight to construct a fence and bridge system on Highway 169. If I had my way, we would also have a bridge over School Street as well. It is crucial for the welfare of our community that we be proactive in the awareness of the values and the threat inherent in the growth of housing and commerce on both sides of this hectic highway. In a city that is under question as to its valuing of children, we must be conscious of the presence of those who walk and run - not only of those who drive as we thrive. Dear Crossings are a must for a community that cares. Richard D. Erickson Minnesota Department of Transportation District 3 1991 Industrial Park Road Baxter, MN 56425 March 31, 1997 Toll Tel: 218/828-2460 Fax: 218/828-2210 Free: 1/800/657-3971 Mr. Terry H. Maurer, P. E. MS& Consulting Engineers 1326 Energy Park Drive St Paul, MN 55108 Dear Mr. Maurer: C.S. 7106 (T.H. i69) Elk River Fencing and Lighting Projects I have reviewed the minutes provided on the public involvement process and I agree with your assessment of the mm out. In reading through the comments, the comments were mainly positive. There were a few who advocated using the funds for a bridge rather than fencing and lighting. The pedestrian bridge enhancement project appears to be high enough on the list to make the Fiscal Year 2000 programming. I have discussed this proposal with Jim Povich and Don Raisanen. The city could choose to initiate the fencing project under the Local Initiative (municipal agreement) Program. The city would be reimbursed for costs per an agreement at the time of letting. In reviewing the cost participation policy, we feel the State's responsibility is 60% of the construction costs (see page 17, 8.13.1 FENCING, 3rd paragraph). If the city accepts total responsibility for the maintenance of the fence, it would reduce the city's construction cost participation. I look forward to a concept plan prepared by the city. As indicated by phone last week, Mn/DOT's lighting section will design the lighting project for a summer 1997 letting. Due to our limited construction personnel, I suggest the city let the lighting and fencing projects together. If any questions arise, don't hesitate to contact me. Sincerely, Gary P. Dirlam, P.E. District 3 Traffic Engineer Enclosure: CC: D. L. Rai sanen/G. N. Kreutz er/J. P o vi ch Dave Solsrud Curt Eastlund Cai Puttbrese Rick Amebeck/Randy Reznicek/Craig Robinson Tom Dumont Pat Kiaers, Elk River City Administrator Bob Busch/Lori Vanderhider An equal opportunity employer lO/SILTING ENGIlEE~ 1326 Energy Park Drive St. Paul, MN 55108 612-644-4389 i-800-888-2923 Fax: 612-644-9446 h20, 1997~ 230-347-90// Mr. Gary Dirlam District 3 Traffic Engineer MnDOT 1991 Industrial Park Road Baxter, MN 56401 TRUNK HIGHWAY 169 PUBLIC PARTICIPATION CITY OF ELK RIVER Dear Mr. Dirlam: CIVIL ENGINEERING: ENVIRONMENTAL _-,NNING SOLID WASTE STRUCTURAL SURVEYING TRAFFIC TRANSPORTATION ELECTRICAL/MECHANICAL ENGINEERING: HVAC POWER DISTRIBUTION SCADA SYSTEM CONTROLS -ICES IN: ..NNEAPOLIS PRIOR LAKE ST. PAUL WASECA Enclosed are the minutes from the various meetings that were held regarding the lighting and fencing along the TH 169 corridor in the City of Elk River. As you can see from the minutes, there were no attendees at the two meetings that were set up specifically for the business owners. We believe this is a good indication there is no opposition to the fencing. It was our concern that there would be some business owners who perceived fencing along their property would be aesthetically unpleasing along with other problems such as litter. After you have had a chance to review these minutes and talk with Jim Povich and Don Raisanen, please let me know what MnDOT's position is regarding funding for the fencing. As I indicated in our phone conversation, it would be my intent to have something prepared for the April 7, 1997, City Council meeting. Also enclosed is the concept plan we talked about for the south frontage road in Western Elk River. As you can see from the concept plan, there is a major intersection at Joplin and also one at Waco Street. The median opening by the County Courthouse is still shown, but there is no definition of how that will operate in the future. As I indicated when we talked with Terry Humbert regarding this issue in 1995, the decision was to leave the County access question unanswered until such time as the road was extended. The options would be for this County access to be left as is, to close the median creating a right-in/right-out only, or to close the access totally. However, the City felt in 1995, that the County needed to be a participant in that discussion, and I believe MnDOT agreed. It was felt that this question was better left unanswered until the road construction was more imminent. An Eaual Onnortunitv Emnlover Mr. Gary Dirlam March 20, 1997 Page Two Finally, please let me know as soon as you f'md out whether or not MnDOT has time available to construct the TH 169 corridor lighting in 1997. As I indicated, it is the City's desire to have it in place this year. The City is willing to take the lead on that project if MnDOT does not have staff available. If you need any more information or have any questions, please feel free to give me a call. Sincerely, MSA, CONSULTING ENGINEERS TJM:tw Enclosures cc: Mr. Pat Klaers, City Administrator 347-2003. mar ON~I'LTING ENGINEEIi,N 1326 Energy Park Drive St. Paul, MN 55108 612-644-4389 1-800-888-2923 Fax: 612-644-9446 06, 1997~~ -347~/ Mr. Pat Klaers City Administrator City of Elk River 13065 Orono Parkway P.O. Box 490 Elk River, MN 55330-0490 TH 169 SAFETY IMPROVEMENTS PUBLIC PARTICIPATION PROGRAM Dear Mr. Klaers: CIVIL ENGINEERING: ENVIRONMENTAL SOLD WASTE STR.J'CTURAL SURVEYING IRA:FiC TRANSPORTA'TION ELECTRICAL/MECHANICAL ENGINEERING: HVAC POv/ER D!STRIBUTION SCADA SYSTEM CONTROLS As you are aware, the City Council had authorized us to initiate the Public Participation Program along the TH 169 corridor anticipating potential fencing and/or lighting projects. This letter is to inform you that the Public Participation Program has now been completed. There were five individual meetings scheduled with the interested parties along the corridor. Those five meetings were as follows: School District Commercial properties north of School Street Residential properties north of School Street Commercial properties south of School Street Residential properties south of School Street The School District meeting was held one-on-one with myself and Ron Bratlie. As you might imagine, the School District was very supportive of both the fencing and lighting projects. They had no specific comments to be entered into the record, but they did indicate that they did support the proposed project and would do anything they could to help them along. No business owners showed up for either of the two meetings scheduled with business owners north and south of School Street. The meetings scheduled for the residential properties north of School Street was very minimally attended. The residential meeting for the properties south of School Street had a much better attendance. However, the majority of those on the sign-up sheet actually were residences living north of School Street. OFFICES IN: INEAPOLIS PRIOR LAKE ST. PAUL WASECA Attached for your information are meeting minutes from the two residential meetings, along with sign-up sheets. I have also attached the mailing lists that were sent out for all four of the scheduled meetings, excluding the School District meeting. 230/347-0514.mar An Equal Opportunity Employer Mr. Pat Klaers March 6, 1997 Page Two A brief summary of where I understand the potential funding for these two improvements, together with the proposed pedestrian bridge, is as follows: Lighting Improvement · The draft of State Transportation Improvement Program (STIP) shows the lighting program in fiscal year 1998 which would mean money would be available for that project in July of 1997. MnDOT was able to stick that program into fiscal year 1998 because a previous programed project was pushed back one year. That STIP will be approved some time in late May or early June of 1997. One item of note is the lighting project was recently changed on the STIP from all MnDOT funding to 50% MnDOT 50% local. Fencing Improvement · The fencing project was proposed by MnDOT in the safety program which falls under the ISTEA funding mechanism. However, it did not appear anywhere on the fiscal year 1998 to year 2000 STIP. This indicates that the fencing program did not rate high enough when measured against other projects in MnDOT's safety program to be programmed in the next three fiscal years. We still have the request in to MnDOT that if it is not funded by the ISTEA program to look at funding it with State monies through a cooperative agreement project. If we are successful in getting funding through a cooperative agreement, it will be partial funding, with a local contribution expected from the City. Pedestrian Bridge Project · The pedestrian bridge is currently rated as the fourth highest project in Region 7W. Region 7W is one of the four planning regions for our District. When all four regions' projects are merged into one overall list, the pedestrian bridge will likely fall as the fourth highest rated project, but it should still end up high enough on the overall list to receive funding for Fiscal Year 2000. This would mean that the money would be available in July of 1999. Again, this draft STIP, which the pedestrian bridge project appears on, will be adopted in late May or early June of this year. Please advise me if there is any additional work you would like us to proceed with regarding these TH 169 safety improvements at this time. Sincerely, MSA, CONSULTING ENGINEERS Te~ ~J~. ~urer, P.E. TJM:kh 230/347-0514.mar 1326 Energy Park Drive SL Paul, MN 55108 612-644-4389 1-800-888-2923 Fax: 612-644-9446 CIVIL ENGINEERING: ENVIRONMENTAL MUNICIPAL ~NNING SOLID WASTE STRUCTURAL SURV~q'ING TRAFFIC TRAN$,~DRTATION ELECTRICAL/MECHANICAL F. NGiNF. ERING: HVAC POWER DISTRIBUTION ~CADA SYST~.M CONTROLS r)FFICES IN: ,~NNEAPOUS PRIOR LAKE ST. PAUL WASECA MINUTES TH169 CORRIDOR PUBLIC PARTICIPATION MEETING Thursday, February 20, 1997 City Hall Staff Present: Terry Maurer, City Engineer Andy Brotzler, MSA Meeting #1 (5:30- 6:30 p.m.) for Business Owners along TH169 south of School Street. No business owners were present for this meeting. Meeting #2 (6:30-7:30 p.m.) for Residents living south of School Street, east of TH169. See attached sign-up sheet for attendance. Terry Maurer, City Engineer, stated that the City has been working with MnDOT to facilitate safety improvements along TH169 between Main Street and 193rd Avenue. The City is requesting MnDOT financing for the improvements which include fencing and/or lighting on the TH169 corridor. He stated that MnDOT is requesting a Public Participation Program as part of the project development process. Terry Maurer reviewed the following issues that have taken place to-date regarding safety concerns along Highway 169: MnDOT has extended the timing of the yellow lights by one second and moved some loop detectors further away from the signal light intersection. MnDOT studied the timing of pedestrian crossing and determined that no change was necessary. Installation of warning flashers is being studied by MnDOT. It has been suggested that the 45 mph speed limit be extended further north. MnDOT is studying this request. City staff is studying the possibility of constructing a pedestrian bridge. An ISTEA Grant Application has been submitted requesting funding for this construction. Fencing along the TH169 right-of-way is being considered between Main Street and 193rd Avenue. Lighting along the TH169 corridor between Main Street and 193rd Avenue is being considered. Terry went on to explain that the lights would be standard 40-foot high cobra headlights placed every 150-feet on opposite sides of the highway so, essentially, there would be a light every 300-feet on each side of the highway. He also explained that the type of fencing being considered is a 5-foot high chain link fence that would be installed along the right-of-way. He indicated that MnDOT would request that the City provide the electricity for the lights and take on a normal maintenance, such as relamping or repainting, if necessary. MnDOT would maintain responsibility for major repairs such 230/347-2411.feb An Equal Opportunity Employer TH169 CORRIDOR PUBLIC PARTICIPATION MEETING MINUTES (Continued) as a light being knocked down due to accident. He indicated that with the fencing being considered, there was a concern that the right-of-way would be opened up on the north end by the entrance to Elk Park Center and on the south end by the intersection of Fifth Street on the east side of the highway. He also indicated that there may be concerns about the aesthetics of the fencing since MnDOT will not be responsible, nor will the City have manpower or time available to pick up litter or trim weeds. This would likely fall to the responsibility of the adjacent property owners or a civic organization. Terry indicated that no design had been ordered yet. The purpose of the meeting was not to discuss specifics regarding the improvements, but to take public input, comments, and try to answer any general questions the public may have. With that, the meeting was opened up to the public. COMMENTS Joel Rademacher, 11224 190th Avenue NW - he stated that he is more in favor of the fence. Fencing he thought was a good idea. He doesn't believe there is a safe place to cross the highway and crossings are not marked properly. Signal lights do not provide a long enough time for pedestrian crossing. He would prefer that the CJ. ty focus their attention on a safe way to cross the highway, preferably with a pedestrian bridge. Linda Twaddle, 18994 Zane Street NW - she said she was confused with MnDOT's position of not wanting to increase pedestrian crossing time by one to two seconds. She did not feel there was adequate time for pedestrian crossing at the intersections. She wondered what MnDOT was losing if they lengthen the pedestrian light times. Steve Schoemaker, 11106 190th Avenue NW - he asked what the cost of the pedestrian bridge would be and what was holding up funding for its construction. He thought the solution to the safety problem was to put the bridge up rather than to spend money on lights and fencing. He related these to spending money on Band-Aid solutions. He suggested that the money that would be spent on light and fencing be put into a pot with addition contributions from MnDOT, the City, and the County to get enough to fund a pedestrian bridge. Pat Korte, 19031 Main Street NW - he stated that a pedestrian bridge would not force use. He thought the fencing was a good first step. He sees both adults and children crossing TH169 between the intersections. He suggested that the fence and lights be installed as soon as possible, and a pedestrian bridge be in the immediate future. Tom Cruz, 11146 190th Avenue NW - he questioned why the intersection of School Street and Elk Hills Drive at TH169 was not square. He thought that squaring up the intersection would reduce pedestrian's exposure to vehicle traffic when crossing. It seems 230/347-2411 .feb 2 TH 169 CORRIDOR PUBLIC PARTICIPATION MEETING MINUTES (Continued) to take longer to cross because it is not square. Terry answered that it is not square because of the much higher traffic volume on the west side on School Street due to Elk Park Center. Two left tums onto School Street from TH169 causes the geometrics to be different on all four lengths of the intersection. He indicated that this could not be changed. Mr. Cruz went on to indicate that the amount of traffic now, and future traffic, is a major concern. The best thing to do would be to put an overpass over TH169. He felt that the amount of traffic makes it tough for pedestrian crossing at the intersection. He also indicated that his daughter is a school crossing guard and he is concerned with her crossing the highway. If he is not available to pick her up after school, he does not allow her to perform her duties as a school guard. Suggests a pedestrian bridge be built as soon as possible. Jeanie Williams, 19041 Zane Street NW - she agreed with Tom Cruz's comments. She is not happy with MnDOT's comments regarding the crossing. She wants a safe place to cross without getting stuck on the island at the intersections. Sue Schoemaker, 11106 190th Avenue NW - she commented that MnDOT's test of the time to cross the signal last fall was not realistic. Having people out there with orange vests on and MnDOT trucks around did not model the real event. Regardless of what the MnDOT experiment showed, she does not feel that the crossing is safe. She stated that MnDOT is concerned about moving traffic and not necessarily concerned about the lives of the residents of Elk River. Joel Rademacher, 11224 190th Avenue NW - he stated that being a second driver in the line at School Street, the light is green and then is yellow by the time he gets to the intersection. The timing is off and it should be checked. Tom Cruz, 11146 190th Avenue NW - he is concerned about the article that appeared in the paper that stated that one in four cars are running red lights. Terry commented that MnDOT has indicated that at any given time, 20 percent of the timing on their traffic signals could be in error. When the public sees a situation, as indicated by Joel Rademacher, they should call either City Hall or MnDOT and MnDOT will check it out. Mike Twaddle, 18994 Zane Street NW - he stated that the number of existing residential units on the east side of the highway and the potential for a significant increase number in them in the near future, along with all the business interests, schools and pedestrian pathways on the west side makes safety for pedestrians crossing the highway a top priority. He stated that he did not know how to correctly cross at the at grade crossing until MnDOT explained it. He wondered how we could expect the children to know how to cross it. He realizes that we will need to educate through parents, school, and police force. He stated that we have to fence the right-of-way even though he would like to see a pedestrian bridge. He felt that without the fence, there would be no way to funnel the 230/347-2411 .feb 3 TH169 CORRIDOR PUBLIC PARTICIPATION MEETING MINUTES (Continued) people to the pedestrian crossing and that the public would have a tendency to take the easiest way. He is in favor of lights along the corridor. He says that the corridor is very dark, especially in the winter. With the headlights of cars often dirty, it is very difficult to see. He stated that MnDOT constantly gives cookbook answers to each of these unique situations and they need to be looked at with unique solutions to the problems in Elk River. The City needs to help do something soon. They have waited too long already and the money needs to be found. Linda Twaddle, 18994 Zane Street NW - she indicated she would not allow her kids to walk across the highway. She said that we all have a tendency to jaywalk but need to be encouraged to use the crosswalk. She stated that she has stopped often times along the highway near the water tower and has never seen a police car come by while she has been stopped there. We need more enforcement along the corridor of pedestrian rules, along with vehicle laws. Need to do something to address the issues related to the two deaths in the last year and all of the "almost" accidents. She felt that it had to be a collaborative effort between State, City, County, and citizens. Jerry Hagen, Saxs Foods - He explained the involvement of the Chamber of Commerce. He felt that there was actually a business issue for the safety of the business customers. We need to have MnDOT know that businesses are getting into the lobbying and contacting state-level representatives. He asked those in attendance to talk to other businesses in the community and make them aware of the Chamber's efforts and have them contact Jerry if they were unaware of what the Chamber was trying to do. Steve Schoemaker, 11106 190th Avenue NW - he asked about the park dedication fees. He stated that all the properties on the east side of the highway had paid park dedication fees and he wondered if those monies could be used to help fund some of the improvements since it appears that they have not fi~nded a park improvement on that side. He asked how much money was in the fund and what it was used for. Ted Schoetzko, 19054 Zane Street NW - he indicated that if you don't hit the pedestrian cross button, there is not enough time to get across. Why doesn't MnDOT change the phasing of the lights. He went on to state that the left turn from southbound TH169 at 193rd tums green without any cars at the intersection. Steve Rusher, 11189 190th Avenue NW - he asked whether retiming of the lights is a MnDOT issue. It was stated that MnDOT does control the timing of the lights. He also stated that after the accident last fall, he saw kids crossing in the middle of the highway corridor and not at the intersections. A police officer was traveling on the highway at that time and did nothing. He indicated that he felt there needs to be more law enforcement of the pedestrian laws along the corridor. 230/34%2411.feb 4 TH169 CORRIDOR PUBLIC PARTICIPATION MEETING MINUTES (Continued) Tom Cruz, 11146 190th Avenue NW - he asked a question of whether we need more overhead crossings if more homes are to be built. He indicated that he thought a second elevated pedestrian crossing should be built by 193rd Avenue. Lester Morris, 19337 Denver Street NW - he indicated that he worked for the Mille Lacs Indian Nation and that he has been working with MnDOT for a project improvement on TH169 near the Mille Lacs Band facilities. He indicated that they have been having trouble but have found a way through them and he was going to provide to Jerry Hagen's committee a summary of how they were able to get their project accomplished. He stated that he now lives in Elk River and was concerned when he saw that the City Council meeting that MnDOT appeared at on cable t.v. because the answers given by MnDOT at that meeting were identical to the answers he received when discussing the improvements that were requested near the Mille Lacs Casino. He indicated that he wanted to help the community any way he could from his experience in dealing with MnDOT. Daryl Thompson, City Council Member - he indicated his position on the lighting and fencing. He was in favor of most of the comments he had heard tonight. He went on to comment about meetings with the State representatives. It was his understanding that one of these representatives was considering authorizing a bill in the State Legislation to try and get funding for the pedestrian bridge. He also indicated that in an earlier meeting with MnDOT, they indicated that they would extend the red-red timing at the intersections. He had wondered if that had been taken care of. Connie Levang, 19047 Nowthen Boulevard - she indicated that she drives northbound on TH 169 quite often and that she is very comfortable with the timing of the lights. She does not perceive that there is undue delay for the traffic on the highway due to timing for cross streets and/or pedestrian. She would not have a problem as a motoring person to have the time extended slightly and wondered what MnDOT's objection to doing that was. She also commented that the corridor is very dark and she thought lighting would be a good idea. There being no further comments, the Public Participation Meeting ended at 7:55 p.m. SDG:kh 230/347-2411 .feb 5 February 20, 1997 Mr. Terry Maurer P. O. Box 490 Elk River, Minnesota 55330 Dear Mr. Maurer, This letter is in regards to improvements needed on the stretch of Highway 169 between Main Street and 193rd. Several times I have attempted to write this letter and each time I find that my emotions seem to cloud the points I hope to make regarding this issue. My opinion is that the speed limit along this stretch should immediately be reduced, with the 45 mile an hour speed zone extended further to the north. This area of highway also has a definite need for fencing, lighting system and pedestrian overpass! It is my understanding that the fencing and lighting may be initiated this spring.., this is wonderful news! My above views on the needs of this part of our community have been there since the day we moved to Elk River eight years ago. My concerns were so strong that both of my children were required to become school patrol guards as training for the time they would become independent enough to cross "the highway." As a member of this community and a bereaved mother of a son who was killed October 16, 1996, on this road, I f,.'-~el strongly about this issue. Perhaps attendance at the community focus meetings seems Iow, and you wonder how important is this issue. to the public? Please do not confuse attendance with concern. I am sure that the people who had signed petitions and attended council meetings asking for highway improvements last fall assume that our city officials are actively addressing and developing a plan to improve this "highway to heaven!" There have been numerous accidents directly related to increased traffic flow and the speed limits. Last fall two people were killed.., please, let's not wait any longer to make these much needed improvements. Sincerely, Linda Twaddle CC: Mayor Hank Duitsman February 10, 1997 ])ear Mr. Yaurer, We live in the Deerfield III addition and are very concerned about the safety issue of getting across Highway 169. As avid walkers, we frequently need to cross that busy highway to go to Elk Park Center, etc. In o~r opinion, a fence would not solve the problem. Pedestrians do need to take responsibili.ty for their o~m safety by crossing ~the highway in designated walkways, but they cannot factor in those negligent motorists who choose to run red lights. Therefore, we feel a much safer solution for pedestrians would be the construction of a walk bridge across Highway 169. Thank you for your attention. Sincerely, INFORMATIONAL HEARING ATTENDANCE REGISTRATION Project:T.H. 169 Corridor between Main Street & 193 Avenue Hearing Date: February 20. 1997 from 6:30 p.m, - 7:30 p,m, Location: Ci.ty of Elk River. 13065 Orono Parkway. City Council Chamber NAME ADDRESS PHONE NO. c:\forms\informat, wpd INFORMATIONAL HEARING ATTENDANCE REGISTRATION Project:T.H. 169 Corridor between Main Street & 193 Avenue Hearing Date: February. 20. 1997 from 6:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. Location: Ci.ty of Elk River. 13065 Orono Parkway. City Council Chamber NAME ADDRESS PHONE NO. c:\forms\informat, wpd 1326 Energy Park Drive St. Paul, MN 55108 612.644-4389 1-800-888-2923 Fax: 612.644.9446 February 5, 1997 File: 230-347-90 Dear TH 169 Business Owner: As you may be aware, the City Council of Elk River has been working closely with MnDOT to facilitate safety improvemenu along the TH 169 corridor between Main Street and 193rd Avenue. The City is hopeful it will obtain MnDOT financing for a fencing and/or lighting improvement. In anticipation of this financing, the City has taken the lead on this project. Part of the project development process involves public participation. Therefore, the following meeting has been scheduled to solicit your input on the proposed projects: CIVIL ENGINEERING: ENVIRONMENTAL MUNICIPAL PLANNING SOUD WASTE STRUCTURAL SURVEYING TRAFFIC ~· . . . TRANSPORTAIION Thursday, February 20, 1997 5:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. Elk River City Hall City Council Chamber 13065 Orono Parkway-. ELECTRICAL/MECHANICAL ENGINEERING: HVAC I:K)WER DISTRIBUTION SCADA SYSTEM CONTROLS' OFFICES IN: MINNEAPOUS PRIOR LAKE ST. PAUL ~: WASECA ::' '. yoUr input into the development of this project is imp6rtant. Please plan to attend. If you are unable to attend, written comments can be submitted to City Hall in care of me. Sincerely, MSA, CONSULTING ENGINEERS Terry I. Maurer, P.E. TJM:kh 347-2905.jan An Equal Opportunity Employer {'O~['LTI~£~GI~EEILX 1326 Energ,/ParkDrlve St. PouI, MN 55108 6~2-644-4389 1-800-888-2923 Fax:612-6~.9,~6 February 5, 1997 File: 230-347-90 Dear TH 169 Corridor Residents' As you may be aware, the City Council of Elk River has been working closely with MnDOT to facilitate safety improvements along the TH 169 corridor between Main Street and 193rd Avenue. The City is hopeful it will obtain MnDOT financing for a fencing and/or lighting improvement. In anticipation of this financing, the City has taken the lead on this project. Part of the project development process involves public participation. Therefore, the following meeting has been scheduled to solicit your input on the proposed projects: CIVIL ENGINEERING: ENVIRONMENTAL ~UNICiPAL .NNING SOLID WASTE STRUCTURAL SURVEYING TRAFFIC TRANSPORTATION 'TH 169 CORRIDOR PLrBLIC pARTIcIPATioN 1vIEETING Thursday, February 20, 1'997 6:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. Elk River City Hall City Council Chamber 13065 Orono Parkway 'qCES IN: ,,~INNEAPOUS PRIOR LAKE ST. PAUL WA,SECA Your input into the development of this project is important. Please plan to attend. If you are unable to attend, written comments can be submitted to City Hall in care of me. Sincerely, MSA, CONSULTING ENGINEERS Terry J. 1V~kfirer, P.E. TJM:kh 347-2906.jan TRUNK HIGHWAY 169 CORRIDOR PUBLIC PARTICIPATION MEETING THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 1997 CITY HALL Staff Present: Terry Maurer, City Engineer, Andy Brotzler, MSA, Sandra Thackeray, City Clerk Meeting #1 - 5:30 - 6:30 for Business owners along East side of Highway 169. No business owners were present for this meeting. Meeting #2 - 6:30 - 7:30 for residents hving along the east side of TH #169. Those present included Daryl Thompson, Tom Warner and Mike Kedrowski.. Terry Maurer, City Engineer stated that the City has been working with MnDOT to facilitate safety improvements along TH 169 between Main Street and 193ra Avenue. The City is requesting MnDOT financing for the improvements which include fencing and/or lighting along the TH 169 corridor. He stated that MnDOT is requesting public participation as part of the project development process. Terry Maurer reviewed the following issues that have taken place to date regarding safety concerns along Highway 169: · MnDOT has extended the t~ming of the yellow lights by one second. · MnDOT studied the t~ming of pedestrian crossing and determined that no change was necessary. · The installation of warning flashers is being studied by MnDOT. · It has been suggested that the 45 mph speed limit be extended further north. This request is being studied by MnDOT. · City Staff is studying the possibility of constructing a pedestrian bridge.. · Fencing along Highway 169 right-of-way is being considered. · Lighting the Highway 169 corridor is also being considered. Tom Warner - stated that he is in favor of lighting the 169 corridor, however, he is not totally in favor of fencing. He indicated that the main issue is to get people safely across Highway 169 and feels that the best way to accomplish this is with an overpass. He indicated that a fence would not always deter people from crossing the highway because there is always the potential of people going around or over the fence. Tom Warner indicated that the $200,000 needed for corridor fencing would be better spent by adding it to the cost of a pedestrian bridge and walkways. Mr. Warner also indicated that it is vital that the City consider acquiring land for a bridge overpass and walkways. Mike Kedrowski indicated that he is in favor of moving ahead with the lighting project but not sure that a fence will keep people from crossing the Highway. He indicated that a bridge overpass would better accomplish this. There being no further comments, the public information meeting ended at 7:00 p.m. Sandra Thackeray City Clerk s:~minutes\16921397.doc 1326 Energy Park Drive St. Paul, MN 55108 612-644-4389 1-800-888-2923 Fax: 612-644-9446 CIVIL ENGINEERING: EN~RONMENTAL MUNICIPAL ~JqNING SOLID WASTE STRUCTURAL SURVEYING TRAFFIC TRANSPORTAI'ION February 5, 1997 File: 230-347-90 Dear TH 169 Business Owner: As you may be aware, the City Council of Elk River has been working closely with MnDOT to facilitate safety improvements along the TH 169 corridor between Main Street and 193rd Avenue. The City is hopeful it will obtain MnDOT financing for a fencing and/or lighting improvement. In anticipation of this financing, the City has taken the lead on this project. Part of the project development process involves public participation. Therefore, the following meeting has been scheduled to solicit your input on the proposed projects: Thursday, February 13, 1997 5:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. Elk River City Hall City Council Chamber 13065 Orono Parkway ELECTRICAL/MECHANICAL ~,NGiNEE,RING: hYAC FDWER DISTRIBUTION ECADA SY, ST~ CONI~OLS :FICES IN: ~JNNEAPOUS PRIOR LAKE ST. PAUL WASECA Your input into the development of this project is important. Please plan to attend. If you are unable to attend, written comments can be submitted to City Hall in care of me. Sincerely, MSA, CONSULTING ENGINEERS Terry J. M~/urer, P.E. TJM:kh 347-2905.jaa [O.~[LTI.~G £~LEEIL~ 1326 Energy Par~ Drive St. Paul, ~N 55]08 612-644.,~389 1-800-888-2923 Fax: 612-644-9446 February 5, 1997 File: 230-347-90 Dear TH 169 Corridor Residents: As you may be aware, the City Council of Elk River has been working closely with MnDOT to facilitate safety improvement,; along the TH 169 corridor between Main Street and 193rd Avenue. The City is hopeful it will obtain MnDOT fifiancing for a fencing and/or lighting improvement. In anticipation of this financing, the City has taken the lead on this project. Part of the project development process involves public participation. Therefore, the following meeting has been scheduled to solicit your input on the proposed projects: CIVIL ~.NGINEERING: ENVIRONMENTAL MUNIOPAL PLANNING $OUD WASTE ' STRUCiU~L StaViNG TRAFFIC TIL~NSI~)IITATION Ek~'CTIIlCA L/MEOqANICAL &NGINE~..RING: HV~C ,I~OW~ DI~IItUTI, ON 5CADA ~STEM CONT~C. LS. OFFICES IN: MINNEABDUS PRIOR LAKE ST. PAUL WASECA Thursday, February 13, 1997 6:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. Elk River City Hall City Council Chamber 13065 Orono Parkway Your input into the development of this project is important. Please plan to attend. If you are unable to attend, written comments can be submitted to City Hall in care of me. Sincerely, MSA, CONSULTING ENGINEERS Te~ j.~a~(er, p.E')/'~.c~ TJM:kh 347-2906.jan INFORMATIONAL HEARING ATTENDANCE REGISTRATION (1LBIiLTI.X'G £Xl;I,EER,~ Project:T.H. 169 Corridor between Main Street & 193 Avenue Hearing Date: February 13. 1997 from 6:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m, Location: Ci.ty of Elk River. 13065 Orono Parkway. City Council Chamber NAME ADDRESS PHONE NO. /~~2-~-~/ /~'~.5~7 -~=~~.~ ~e,-~/3~¢ c:\forms\informat, wpd £ONN[LTINGENGINEERN 1326 Energy Park Drive St. Paul, MN 55108 612-644-4389 t-800-888-2923 Fax: 612-644-9446 February 5, 1997 File: 230-347-90 Dear TH 169 Business Owner: As you may be aware, the City Council of Elk River has been working closely with MnDOT to facilitate safety improvements along the TH 169 corridor between Main Street and 193rd Avenue. The City is hopeful it will obtain MnDOT financing for a fencing and/or lighting improvement. In anticipation of this financing, the City has taken the lead on this project. Part of the project development process involves public participation. Therefore, the following meeting has been scheduled to solicit your input on the proposed projects: CIVIL ENGINEERING: ENVIRONMENTAl. MUNICIPAL ANNING SOLID WASTE STRUCTURAL SURVEYING TRAFFIC TRANSPORTATION Thursday, February 13, 1997 5:30 p.m. ~ 6:30 p.m. Elk River City Hall City Council Chamber 13065 Orono Parkway ElECTRICAL/MECHANICAL ENGINEERING: HVAC POWER DISTRIBUTION SCADA SYSTEM CONTROLS Your input into the development of this project is important. Please plan to attend. If you are unable to attend, written comments can be submitted to City Hall in care of me. Sincerely, MSA, CONSULTING ENGINEERS OFFICES IN: AINNEAPOLIS PRIOR LAKE SI. PAUL WASECA TJM:kh 347-2905 .jan An Equal Opportunity Employer ('ONS[LTING ENGINEERS 1326 Energy Park Drive St. Paul, MN 55108 612-644-4389 1-800-888-2923 Fax: 612-644-9446 February 5, 1997 File: 230-347-90 Dear TH 169 Business Owner: As you may be aware, the City Council of Elk River has been working closely with MnDOT to facilitate safety improvements along the TH 169 corridor between Main Street and 193rd Avenue. The City is hopeful it will obtain MnDOT financing for a fencing and/or lighting improvement. In anticipation of this financing, the City has taken the lead on this project. Part of the project development process involves public participation. Therefore, the following meeting has been scheduled to solicit your input on the proposed projects: CIVIL ENGINEERING: ENVIRONMENTAL MUNICIPAL ~,NNtNG SOLID WASTE STRUCTURAL SURVEYING TRAFFIC TRANSPORTATION Thursday, February 20, 1997 5:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. Elk River City Hall City Council Chamber 13065 Orono Parkway ELECTRICAL/MECHANICAL ENGINEERING: HVAC POWER DISTRIBUTION SCADA SYSTEM CONTROLS OFFICES IN: ,iNNEAPOLIS PRIOR LAKE ST. PAUL WASECA Your input into the development of this project is important. Please plan to attend. If you are unable to attend, written comments can be submitted to City Hall in care of me. Sincerely, MSA, CONSULTING ENGINEERS Terry J. Maurer, P.E. TJM:kh 347-2905 .jan An Equal Opportunity Employer Brenda Mack ·Arby's / Sbarro 19182 Freeport Street Elk River MN 55330 Joyce Kongsjord Brauns Fashions 19128 Freeport Avenue Elk River MN 55330 Lois Downey Chin Yuen Express 19168 Freeport Avenue Elk River MN 55330 Gene Molitor Maggie's Hallmark 19i86 Freeport Street F.~k River MN 55330 Rene E. Van der Haeghen Pak Mail Centers of America 19112 Freeport Street Ell3 Elk River MN 55330 ~.4dy Sanborn Sa!ina 19112 Freeport Avenue gl 15 Elk River MN 55330 Brian Davies Taco Bell 19131 Freeport Avenue Elk River MN 55330 Peter Meade Tar~//956 19146 Freeport Avenue Elk River MN 55330 Mariys Thorson Target//956 19146 Freeport Avenue Elk River MN 55330 T Sauve Target//956 19146 Freeport Avenue Elk River MN 55330 Karen Olivo Vision World 19166 Freeport Avenue Elk River MN 55330 Patricia Knutson Wendys International 19179 Freeport Avenue Elk River MN 55330 st~Linegar ~/ ~AME ~k River Red-E-Mix ; ver ~scher ~ME ~ River Red-E-Mix ~ver MN ~0 ~u ~ Johmon Abra Auto Body and Glass 275 Carson Street Elk River MN 55330 Marge Remarcik Balloons Ink 20295 Twin Lakes Road Elk River MN 55330 5 Dr. Dennis Gallenberg 'Barrington Oaks Veterinary Hosp. 710 Dodge Avenue Elk River MN 55330 Debbie Biggins Burger Time Restaurant 229 Carson Street Elk River MN 55330 Dr. William Tregaskis Central MN Mental Health Center 730 Dodge Avenue #101 Elk River MN 55330 Fashiohristian ~ 10989 l~enue NW J McDowell 'Circle C Convenience Center 568 Dodge Avenue Elk River MN 55330 _Cla_ssi yL~F~ar Elk/River MI~ 55330 Brian Brehmer Clem's Fish & Seafood 19424 Evans Street Elk River MN 55330 Coldwell~r Vision 325 M.~hfStreet~ EJlc'River MN ~"5330 Rod Riske Cub Foods 19216 Freeport Street Elk River MN 55330 Toby LaPointe .~ Domino's Pizza 592 Dodge Avenue Elk River MN 55330 Del Overho!ser Econar Energy Systems Corp 19230 Evans Street Elk River MN 55330 E_conar E~ystems Corp EIjg,R'fver MN 553'39 Dana Johnson Edina Realty Inc. 592 Dodge Avenue Elk River MN 55330 P.O.B.,,~i2'~.,,~ EJk'River MN "55~30 Mary Eberley Elk River Insurance Agency 710 Dodge Avenue Elk River MN 55330 5 ~iet~Kreger ~ Elk River~~ll Inc. ver 22460~9 ~ver MN ~5330 Bill ~d Julie Fish Elk River Print~g & Pa~ Plus 596 D~ge Avenue Elk River MN 55330 Rob Rich Elk River Tire & Auto/Goodyear P.O. Box 280 Elk River MN 55330 Fairview ~inic Elk River 290 Ma~.~-~t Elk~t?OV'~r MN 553"315,., Tim Hayes Farmers Insurance 650 Dodge Avenue Elk River MN 55330 Jeff Engen First National Bank of Elk River 19157 Freeport Avenue Elk River MN 55330 .~g~ver MN 55'~30 Guardi~f Elk River E~ref~iver MN 5'3330 Lynn Hartley Hartley Associates 200 5th Street Suite F Elk River MN 55330 McDonald's of Elk River 380 3rd~//306 700 Dodge Avenue 'l~?~t~r MN '~0-3012. Elk River MN 55330 Becky Becket Heigl Mortgage and Financial Corp. 710 Dodge Avenue Suite A Elk River MN 55330 irch Angela $. George Home Security Abstract & Title Co. 564 Dodge Avenue NW Elk River MN 55330 ~onny Sleyster Indy Lube Inc. 522 Dodge Avenue Elk River MN 55330 Jim Rogness .IR Tech Automotive, Inc. 279 Carson Avenue NW Elk River MN 55330 Edward ~& Co. John Morrow KFC P.O. Box 187 Elk River MN 55330 ~e r&vley McD~River 700 Ellc,,'Kiver MN Perry Coonce Minnesota Sports Federation 592 Dodge Avenue Elk River MN 55330 Liz Tveite Minuteman Press 19264 Evans Street NW Elk River .MN 55330 Mo in Of oe Sean Weldon and Darrell Dunn North Central Insurance Agency 200 5th Street Suite J Elk River MN 55330 Mitchell Kruger Norwest Mortgage Inc. 564 Dodge Avenue Suite D Elk River MN 55330 Nybe~ociates r.,tx ~tver mrq 55330 J_ohn 'v~~ Associates Inc. Elke'ttiver MN '"'-.,.~330 Lynn Caswell John Oliver & Associates Inc. 580 Dodge Avenue Elk River MN 55330 Onhop~nsultants 1~. Dave Edwar,,,,,ds/'~ 290 M~et NW ~~;ants ~K~ver MN ~ 55330 ~~~venue ~eapolis MN ~54~ Dan Smi~ Per~ of Elk River 18838 Dodge Street Elk River MN 55330 myl~ Gjess~g Piz~ Hut 260 Carson S~reet E~ ~ver MN 55330 ~nc P.O. B~ ~mou~ MN ~ 55~1 Ga~ San~ire Re~ Premier Real~ 650 Dodge Avenue Elk River MN 55330 Paul Norland Riverdale ~ Galle~ 19276 Eva~ Street E~ ~ver MN 55330 Rick Foster ~ Riverside Development Comply 19230 Ev~ S~eet Elk River MN 55330 5 Marly Glines Riverside Development Company 19230 Evans Street Xlk River MN 55330 Charlie Peltier Ron's Foods 321 Baldwin Avenue Elk River MN 55330 '~.ald L. Dargi~,.- El~iver MN "'x,,55330 Jerry Hagen Sax Food & Drug 19424 Evans Street Elk River MN '55330 E~v'River MN 'x55330 Sherb e~ty Abstract & Title E~iver MN ~5330 Gloria Farley Steenerson Chiropractic HeaI~ Ctr 7~0 Dodge Avenue Suite A Elk River MN 55330 ~ark Steene~ ~~ractic Heal~ C~ sui , T Smi~ ~ TS C~ ' El~iver MN 5~0 ~Wa_ter La~s.& Eco Systems Eng. Diana Ellingson The Wedding Chapel Bridals Inc. 592 Dodge Aver:ue Elk River MN 55330 _Zie?le~on Co. Inc. P.O. ~ Big Wheel Rossi 508 Freeport Avenue ~lk River, MN 55330 Carol's Dance Studio 684 Freeport Avenue Elk River MN 55330 Famous Footwear 19174 Freeport Street Elk River MN 55330 H & R Block 730 Freeport Avenue Elk River, MN 55330 Landmark Personnel Inc. 506 Freeport Avenue Suite 11 Elk River MN 55330 ReNee Salzer 'Mauriees 19180 Freeport Street Ell River MN 55330 Mike Treraholm Payless Shoe Source 19134 Freeport Street Ell River MN 55330 Kamie Stenvold Animal Inn Pet Food Outlet 19160 Freeport Street Ell River MN 55330 Mike Asperheim Radio Shack 19178 Freeport Street Ell River MN 55330 Ot ieen Lantz Sally Beauty Supply 19162 Freeport Street Elk River MN 55330 Mike Waz Smoke Shop 19112 Freeport Street Elk River MN 55330 St. Maximilian Catholic Bookstore 756 Freeport Avenue Elk Rive~' MN 55330 Darlene Olson Sunroom Tanning Studio 716 Freeport Avenue Elk River MN 55330 Annette Skrove Video Update 19141 Freeport Street Elk River MN 55330 5 Brian Scott Sher. Co. Insurance Agency of E.R. 650 Dodge Avenue Elk River MN 55330 5 Dr. David DeSimone Northwest Family Dental Center 710 Dodge Avenue Elk River, MN 55330 Carrie McElhone Family Restaurant 600 Dodge Avenue Elk River MN 55330 Joe Thies & Penny Klatt Barrington IV Hair 592 Dodge Avenue Elk River MN 55330 5 Shirley Inderieden Tan Terrific 564 Dodge Avenue Elk River MN 55330 5 Orr Mickelson Farmers Insurance 650 Dodge Avenue Elk River MN 55330 Bill Dodds William R. Dodds Ltd. 730 Dodge Avenue //107 Elk River MN 55330 Jackson Hewitt Tax Service 650 Dodge Avenue Elk River MN 55330 Edward W. Bobb CPA 650 Dodge Avenue Elk River MN 55330 Christenson Communications 592 Dodge Avenue Elk River MN 55330 Play It Again Sports 19268 Evans Street Elk River, MN 55330 Shelly Stoltz ,.)For Your Nails Only 19424 Evans Street Elk River MN 55330 Mike Allied American Mortgage 19230 Evans Street Suite 100 Elk River MN 55330 ,~New Horizon Child Care 19280 Evans Street Elk River MN 55330 lO,SILTING ENGI.~EERS 1326 Energy Park Drive St. Paul, MN 55108 612-644-4389 1-800-888-2923 Fax: 612-644-9446 December 20, 1996 File: 230-347-80 Mr. Dave Solsmd District Preliminary Design Engineer MnDOT 3725 12th Street North PO Box 370 St. Cloud, MN 56302 RE: CITY OF ELK RIVER Dear Mr. Solsmd: CNIL ENGINEERING: ENVIRONMENTAL MUNICIPAL iNNING SOLID WASTE STRUCTURAL SURVEYING TRAFFIC TRANSPORTATION ELECTRICAL/MECHANICAL ENGINEERING: HVAC POWER DISTRIBUTION SCADA SYSTEM CONTROLS OFFICES IN: ,,INNEAPOLIS PRIOR LAKE ST. PAUL WASECA As you may be aware, there has been a lot of discussion concerning improvements to the Trunk Highway 169 corridor through Elk River, due to the recent fatalities on this stretch of roadway. Working closely with Tom Dumont, I am anticipating that the City may undertake a fencing and/or lighting project in the summer of 1997. This would be on the section of highway from Main Street to 193rd Avenue. I recently met with Gary Dirlam and Tom Dumont to discuss the procedure the City should use in undertaking this type of improvement, with potential MnDOT reimbursement at a later date. They suggested that a public involvement process would need to be laid out and implemented prior to the design of any improvements. They suggested that I prepare the broad framework for a public involvement process, and mn it by you for your review and comment. The purpose of this correspondence is to broadly discuss such a public involvemem process and look for your expertise on a few issues. We would anticipate having separate meetings with groups that may have an interest in the fencing and/or lighting project. I would envision that the interested groups would include the following: A. The Deerfield Neighborhood located north of Elk Hills Drive and east of Highway 169, B. The Elk Park Center Commercial properties, C. The Elk River School District, D. The commercial properties located south of School Street/Elk Hills Drive. This group would also include the Perkins Restaurant; and 347-2005.dec An Equal Opportunity Employer Dave Solsrud December 20, 1996 Page Two E. The residents located south of School Street. This would include the Barrington Place neighborhood, the apartment complexes located between 5th Street and Main Street, and the residential neighborhood just to the east of this area. The first question we would have is what is the best way to notify these groups of an informational meeting. We could use City tax rolls and do direct mailings. We could use a word-of mouth campaign through a fairly well organized neighborhood group in the Deerfield neighborhood. The Chamber of Commerce may be another avenue for notifying the businesses. The final idea we thought of would be an ad in the local newspaper. A direct mail notice would be the most work for the City, but it certainly would provide for the best response at the meetings. The second question we have concerns the need to have a public hearing before the City Council after the individual group meetings are held. If you believe one would be necessary, we could facilitate this through a newspaper ad, along with ads posted on the cable TV and, possibly, the City newsletter, depending on publication schedules. We would appreciate any and all input you can give to this type of process. We would anticipate trying to begin the implementation some time in the latter part of January, trying to complete the process within about three months, so that a project could be designed and hopefully let and constructed in calendar year 1997. Please call when you have a chance to review this information. I would be happy to meet you at your office at any convenient time to discuss this issue further. Sincerely, MSA, CONSULTING ENGINEERS CC: Gary Dirlam, District Traffic Engineer Pat Klaers, City Administrator TJM:tf 347-2005.dec CONSULTING ENGINEER~ 1326 Energy Park Drive St, Paul, MN 55108 612-644-4389 1-800-888-2923 Fax: 612-644-9446 C!VIL ENGINEERING: ENVIRONMENTAL ~UNiCIPAL x, NING SOLO ','VAST,} STRUCTURAL SURVEY ",,G TRAFFIC TRANSPORTATION ELEC FRiCAL/MECHANiCAL ENGINEERING HVAC POWER DISTRIBUTION SCAD;, S" STEM CONTRO:S OFFICES IN: ,NNEAPOLIS PRIOR LAKE ST. PAUL WASECA November 21, 1996 File: 230-347-80 Honorable Mayor and City Council City of Elk River 13065 Orono Parkway P.O. Box 490 Elk River, MN 55330 RE: FENCING OF TRUNK HIGHWAY 169 RIGHT-OF-WAY Dear Council Members: Council Member Farber had requested that I put together additional information regarding the cost and timing of a potential project to fence the TH 169 corridor. In doing so, I have contacted Tom Dumont, MnDOT Assistant Traffic Engineer, regarding the specifications for such a project. He indicated that the specifications for fencing would consist of a 6-foot high, 2-inch mesh, cyclone fence with a tension wire at the top. He also looked back on some previous MnDOT projects and indicated that the typical bid for this type of installation was approximately $12 per linear foot. I also contacted a representative from Century Fence who Tom recommended, regarding the earliest start date and time to complete such a project. He indicated that any start date before April 1st would have significantly higher cost due to frost and snow conditions. He also indicated that a project to fence the TH 169 corridor from Main Street to 193rd Avenue would take approximately one to two weeks. It appears that each side of TH 169 from Main Street to 193rd Avenue is approximately 6,600 feet long. Therefore, using the estimated bid price supplied by MnDOT, the cost of fencing each side of TH 169 from Main Street to 193rd Avenue would be $79,000, or a total of $158,000. As I had indicated at last Monday's City Council meeting, we should hear by January 1997 whether a fencing project will be programmed and funded by the MnDOT Safety Program. Regardless of the outcome, we will have sufficient time after January of 1997 to put together specifications and get a project underway as early as weather permits in the spring of 1997. If you have any questions or would like additional information, please call. Sincerely, MSA, CONSULTING ENGINEERS Terrier/', P.E. TJM:tw 347 -2106. nov An Equal Opportunity Employer CON~ULTINGENGINEE~ 1326 EnergyParkDrive St. PauI, MN 55108 612-644-4389 1-800-888-2923 Fax: 612-644-9446 April 2, 1997 File: 230-347-80 Mr. Tom Dumont Assistant Traffic Engineer MnDOT District 3 3725 - 12th Street North P.O. Box 370 St. Cloud, MN 56302 TH 169 CITY OF ELK RIVER, MINNESOTA Dear Mr. Dumont: CIVIL ENGINEERING: ENVIRONMENTAL NICIPAL rLANNING SOLID WASTE STRUCTURAL SURVEYING TRAFFIC TRANSPORTATION ELECTRICAL/MECHANICAL ENGINEERING: HVAC POWER DISTRIBUTION SCADA SYSTEM CONTROLS 'FICESIN: MINNEAPOLIS PRIOR LAKE ST. PAUL WASECA In follow-up to our recent conversation regarding the red/red timing on the TH 169 signals, the following questions arose at a recent City Council meeting: Given the number of near misses along this corridor due to people running red lights, would it make the corridor potentially safer by extending the red/red timing on the signals from 1.5 seconds to approximately 2 to 2.5 seconds? The Council also asked exactly how the 1.5 seconds for a red/red is determined and would adding .5 to 1 second make the intersection any safer and/or have any negative influence on the ability of the highway to move traffic? I was not quite sure how to answer these questions. I suggested to the City Council that a letter to you, as experts on signal timing issues, would be the best way to get the answers. Would you please respond at your convenience and I will pass your comments on to the City Council. If you have any questions regarding this issue, please contact me. Sincerely, MSA, CONSULTING ENGINEERS Terry J(. I(,Iaurer, P.E. TJM:kh 347~0202 .apr CC: An Equal Opportunity Employer Minnesota Department of Transportation District 3 3725 12th St. N. P.O. Box 370 St. Cloud, MN 56302 April 11, 1997 1997 Mr. Terry Maurer MSA Consulting Engineers - Elk River City Engineer 1326 Energy Park Drive St. Paul, Minnesota 55108 T.H. 169 - CS 7106 City of Elk River Tel: 612/255-4181 Fax: 612/255-3257 Toll Free: 1/800/657-3961 i(320) 6s4-s]os Dear Terry: I received your letter expressing the city council's interest in extending the red/red (all red) timing at signalized intersections along TH 169 in the city of Elk River. I will attempt to answer your questions on how the "all red" is timed and the effects of extending the "all red" interval. The Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices says that "the yellow vehicle change interval may be followed by a short all red clearance interval" to clear the intersection.prior next green phase. Past timing practice did not include an all'red interval after the yellow; when the yellow terminated the red and the cross street green appeared simultaneously. At the onset of the green a "startup" time of 1 to 3 seconds (perception/reaction) was expected to provide an intersection clearance similar to the current all red interval. Studies showed that it took 1 to 3 seconds for vehicles to notice the green, decide to go, take foot off the brake, check for traffic, and then accelerate and finally move the vehicle. The practice of using the startup time is diminishing although this clearance time is still available if the green is not "jump started". Our practice is to provide an all red interval in addition to the startup time for additional safety measures. The ail red is figured by adding 20 feet (length of vehicle) to the width of the intersection, ( length from the stop bar to the center of the farthest cross street through lane), then dividing this total by 85% speed (55 mph documented from speed study) in feet per second. The current all red timing is figured with the posted 45 mph speed which yields longer all red times. This statewide methodology provides adequate time for vehicles to clear the intersection without encouraging running of the red light. Would an additional 0.5 to 1.0 seconds have a negative effect on moving traffic? I do not think this small amount of time would adversely'effect travel time on TH 169. We do have serious concerns extending, the all red beyond the statewide guidelines: Regular c0mmu{ets have a tendency to notiCe the interval lengths and use to' their advantage. Adding the additional (0.5 to 1.0) seconds to the eXisting 1.5 interval could encourage red light running. A more critical concern is deviating form the State timing guidelines. For example, ifa driver experiences a 2.0 An equal opportunity employer to 2.5 second all red on TH 169 in Elk River and then expects this same red time at other similar intersections where only 1.5 seconds are programmed, this could lead to serious consequences. Due to these reasons we are very cautious in deviating from state guidelines. We've been informed that the city has applied for additional enforcement to help police the TH 169 corridor. We feel this is a positive step to help control the red light running. This Spring during our biannual signal preventative maintenance review we will again review the timing and safety issues on TH 169. I will keep you abreast if any changes are made after the review. Sincerely, Thomas L. Dumont Assistant District Traffic Engineer CC~ D.L. Raisanen/Kreutzer/Povich Rick Arnebeck Gary Diflam Tom Davidson