4.4. SR 02-16-1999
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Item # 4 . 4 .
MEMORANDUM
TO: Mayor and City Council
FROM: Scott Harlicker, Planning Assista4.""
DATE: February 16, 1999
SUBJECT: Update on Northstar Corridor
Project
At the February 4th meeting of the Northstar Corridor Development
Authority, the Authority was briefed on the major components of the second
phase of the Major Investment Study (MIS). Attached is a copy of the
summary which outline key elements of the study. Included in the outline are
basic assumptions regarding the work program, work program for completing
Phase 2 of the MIS, special studies which need to be completed, public
involvement procedures, environmental clearance, engineering support and
coordination with BSNF.
.
Several members of the Authority went on a tour of four California commuter
rail systems: San Francisco, San Jose, Los Angeles and San Diego. The
discussion centered what we can do to avoid some of the issues faced by the
California communities.
.
13065 Orono Parkway · P.O. Box 490 · Elk River, MN 55330. TDD & Phone: (612) 441-7420. Fax: (612) 441-7425
1::1'\' . , \!.
Northstar Corridor Development Authority
Thursday, February 4, 1999
4:30 p.m.
Sherburne County Courthouse
Elk River, MN
1.
Minutes of January 7, 1999 Meeting*
2.
Executive Committee Report
a. Phase II of the MIS/Environmental Clearance*
i) Proposed Work Program
ii) Contract Amendment with BRW
iii) Mn/DOT Funding Agreement
iv) RFP for Public Information Services
v) Legal Services Procurement
b. Connection with the Hiawatha Corridor
c. Request for Stations in Coon Rapids and
Columbia Heights*
3.
Legislative Update*
4.
Tour of California Commuter Rail System
a. Report on Tour of California Commuter Rail
b. Proposed Policy-Maker Tour, Scheduled for
February 18-21, Los Angeles and San Diego
5. Other
Action Requested
Approval
Consider
Committee
Recommendation
to NCDA
Discussion
Discussion
.
DRAFT
DRAFT
DRAFT
NORTHSTAR CORRIDOR DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY
Regular Meetine: Minutes
January 7. 1999
The Northstar Corridor Development Authority met on January 7, 1999, at 4:30 p.m. at
the Sherburne County Government Center, Elk River, Minnesota.
The followine: members. alternates and citizens were present:
.
Leigh Lenzmeier, Lynn George, David Loch, Tim Yantos, Mary Richardson, Stephanie
Eiler, Biz Colburn, Dan Erhart, Paul McCarron, Steve Billings, Art Daniels, Lewis Stark,
Jerry Leese, Scott Harlicker, Daryl Thompson, Patrick Cairns, Duane Grandy, Ken
Paulson, Terry Nagorski, John Norgren, Ewald Petersen, Paul Goenner, Curtis Jacobsen,
Duane Cekalla, Dick Wolsfeld, Gary Hammer, Jerry Newton, Yvonne Chaillet, Michael
Robertson, Ken Stevens, Jean Keely, Jim Barton, Tom Cruikshank, Brian Roper, John
Blaha, Bill Kiffmeyer, Vic Oviatt, Joni Astrup, Carl Yilek
1. Chairperson Wergin called the meeting to order at 4:30 p.m.
2. Mary Richardson called for nominations for election of the 1999 Chairperson.
Steve Billings nominated Betsy Wergin.
A motion was made by Paul McCarron, seconded by Lewis Stark and carried
unanimously to close nominations for the 1999 Chairperson.
A motion was made by Paul McCarron, seconded by Ken Paulson and carried
unanimously to appoint Betsy Wergin as Chairperson of the Northstar Corridor
Development Authority for the term of January 7, 1999, to January, 2001
.
3.
The Chairperson called for nominations for the election of the 1999 Vice-
Chairperson.
.
Steve Billings nominated Gerry Donlin.
A motion was made by Paul McCarron, seconded by Duane Grandy and carried
unanimously to close nominations for 1999 Vice Chairperson
A motion was made by Steve Billings, seconded by Lewis Stark and carried
unanimously to nominate Gerry Donlin as 1999 Vice Chairperson to the Northstar
Corridor Development Authority for the period of January 7, 1999, to January
2001.
4. A motion was made by Steve Billings, seconded by Duane Grandy and carried
unanimously to approve the agenda of January 7, 1999, with no additions and the
meeting minutes of December 10, 1998, regular meeting minutes as presented.
5. New members, as a result of recent elections, were introduced:
City of Big Lake:
City of Sauk Rapids:
City of Elk River:
Benton County:
Curt Jacobson (alternate replacing Erv Danielowski)
Art Daniels (member replacing Richard Turch)
Daryl Thompson (member replacing Hank Duitsman)
Duane Cekalla (alternate replacing Joseph Voigt)
.
6. Executive Committee Report:
a. A motion was made by Paul McCarron, seconded by Patrick Cairns and
carried unanimously to approve the recommendation ofthe Executive
Committee to rescind the authority to enter into a contract with Lockridge
Grindal Hauen & Holstein and to authorize entering into a contract with
Mullenholz, Brimsek & Belair with John Brimsek in the amount of
$30,000 for the term of January 1, 1999 to December 31, 1999.
b. A motion was made by Paul McCarron, seconded by Ewald Petersen and
carried unanimously to approve the recommendation of the Executive
. Committee to approve the proposed 1999 Legislative Positions as
amended.
c. Paul McCarron updated the committee on comments received at the
January 6, 1999, Light Rail Transit Joint Powers Board on Mn/DOT's
Twin Cities Metropolitan Commuter Rail Feasibility Study Phase II. No
action taken.
.
d.
.
Members were urged to contact Legislators urging support for the Study
and future NCDA funding. Members were asked to notify Mary
Richardson, (651/222-7227) of legislators they contact.
7. Dick Wolsfeld, BRW, Inc., provided a summary of the Draft Report on
Commuter Rail Technical Feasibility and Phase II steps as presented by BRW,
Inc. dated December, 1998.
8. A motion was made by Dan Erhart, seconded by Jerry Newton and carried
unanimously to approve the recommendation of the Executive Committee to
approve Resolution #99-1 finding that the Northstar Corridor Commuter Rail
service to be a technically feasible component of the transportation solution and
authorizing the Northstar Corridor Development Authority to proceed to the next
phase of work on the Corridor and directing the Project Management Team to
develop a scope of work for the completion of the Major Investment Study, the
environmental review and preliminary engineering for commuter rail service, and
negotiations with BNSF.
9. Tim Yantos, Anoka County, and Dick Wolsfeld, BRW, Inc. discussed the
Northstar Corridor Phase 2 Work Program key technical elements including:
a.
. b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
Complete next steps for commuter rail element common to all build
alternatives
Complete Major Investment Study/select Locally Preferred Investment
Strategy
Determine institutional responsibility for connection to Hiawatha LRT
Prepare request to begin Preliminary Engineering addressing FT A New
Starts Criteria
Public Involvement
Develop funding plan for Locally Preferred Investment Study
10. A request was made for a copy of the Project Update mailing list. Stephanie
Eiler, Anoka County, indicated that the list will be distributed with the next
Northstar Corridor Development Authority.
11. A copy of the proposed 1999 meeting schedule was distributed. It was the
consensus of the Committee to continue NCDA meetings on the first Thursday of
each month at 4:30 p.m. at the Sherburne County Government Center. The 1999
NCDA and Executive Committee meeting schedules were distributed.
12. Mary Richardson reviewed the status of Fourth Quarter, 1998 activities and
funding.
.
13.
1J1e next meeting ofthe Northstar Corridor Development Authority is scheduled
for Thursday, February 4, 1999, at 4:30 p.m. at the Sherburne County
Government Center.
.
14. The Chairperson declared the meeting adjourned at 5:55 p.m.
Betsy Wergin Chairperson
Date
H:\ADMNDA T A\COMMITIE\CORRIDOR\1999\\O 1 0799.DOC
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To:
Executive Committee
NCDA
From:
Staff
Subject:
Phase II of the MIS/Environmental Clearance
At its last meeting, the NCDA adopted Resolution #99 - 01 finding that commuter rail is
a technically feasible component of the transportation solution in the Northstar Corridor and
directing staff to develop a work program for Phase II of the MIS, environmental clearance and
negotiations with BNSF. The Project management Team has worked with BRW and consulted
with technical staff to commuter rail systems in California and Seattle to develop a draft work
program and schedule. Attachment A to this memorandum is a chart that gives an overview of
the tasks that must be completed and a proposed schedule. Attachment B outlines the key
technical tasks to be undertaken in the next phase of work by the engineering consulting group.
Staff recommend that the NCDA continue working with BRW as the lead engineering consultant
for the Northstar Corridor.
.
In addition to the engineering assistance, the NCDA will need professional services in the
areas of public involvement and railroad legal issues. The Federal Transit Administration
requires, as a part of its funding requirements, that funding recipients conduct an active public
involvement program. Staff recommend issuing a Request for Proposals to select a firm best
suited to develop and undertake the public involvement program. At the next meeting, staff will
provide an update on the procurement process. Note that the consultant selection and contract
will be brought to the NCDA for approval. Additionally, negotiations with BNSF will require
the assistance in the highly specialized area of railroad law. Staff will work to identify firms with
the appropriate expertise. The selection of the law firm and execution of the contract will be
brought back and the NCDA for approval.
Finally, $4,000,000 in federal funding has been made available to the NCDA, for
purposes of completing the MIS, environmental clearance and negotiation with BNSF. Matching
funds in the amount of $1,000,000 of state bond funds will be made available shortly. It will be
necessary to enter into a funding agreement with MnlDOT to provide for the transfer of funds to
the NCDA.
.
Actions Requested: That the NCDA;
1) Authorize the staff to negotiate an agreement with BR W to perform the
scope of work outlined in Attachment B, for an amount not to exceed
N orthstar Corridor Developme1lt Authority
2100 3'd Avenue. Anoka. Minnesota 55303-2265 (612) 323-5700 Fax: (612) 323-5682
, and to authorize the Executive Committee to approve and the
chair to execute the financial negotiated Agreement; and
2) Authorize staff to issue an RFP for Public Involvement Services; and
3) Authorize staff to solicit legal assistance; and
4) Authorize the chair to finalize negotiations and execute a Funding
Agreement with the Minnesota Department of Transportation, in the
amount of $5,000,000 for the term of March 1, 1999 - December 31,
2001.
\,
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Work Program and Implementation Schedule for Commuter Rail Component of Northstar Corridor Irom Minneapolis to St. Cloud
*
TEA-21 Legislation
Completed
t
t
d:.
* Initiation of Northstar Corridor
Major Investment Study
. Phase I of Northstar MI~
.
phase \I of Northstar MIS
.
. Locally Preferred Transportation
Investment Strategy
* Decision On
Environmental Approach
FTA Designation As Lead Agency
. -.
for Environmental Clearance
. Land Use Ana~sis
Station Area Planning & Design
- -
Environmental Clearance
.
.
Engineering To Support
-EnVironmental Work -
New Starts Criteria
- ..
I
~FTA R:quest to Initiate Engineering
,""'
Engineering & Design
- Vehicle Procurement
. .
Full Funding Grant Agreement
. . . ..__............. . Construction
. . L.n.r 01 Commitm.nt With BNSF ...um.........,BNSF ~r~I!'.'!~!y. BNSF Fina' Agre.m.nt. · V.hicl. Ass.mbly
,.Mn'JOT Commut.r Rail Study .....Upd.t. of R1ion.1 Transport.tion Agr..m.nt ~
PIAn To Inclu e Northstar Corridor
-
Financial Plan
.
-
-
.
. Testina
*
System
Open
.
DRAFT
Key Elements of the Phase II Technical Work Program
for Completing the
Northstar Corridor Major Investment Study
And
Environmental Impact Statement
for the Proposed Commuter Rail Service
.
Prepared for
Northstar Corridor Development Authority
Prepared by
BRW, Inc.
700 Third Street South
Minneapolis, MN 55415
.
January 29, 1999
Contents
Pa2e
Overview. . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . .. . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . .. 1
Assumptions.............................................................................. 2
Work Program
1.0
2.0
3.0
4.0
5.0
6.0
7.0
Complete Phase II of Northstar Corridor MIS....................
Conduct Special Studies......... ... ....... ...... ..... ............ ...
Public and Agency Involvement.... ...... ........... ......... ... ...
Environmental Clearance.............................................
Engineering Support............................................... ....
BNSF Coordination...................................................
Project Management............................................... ....
Cost Estimate.............................................................................
3
5
8
9
12
13
14
15
Draft Work Program for Northstar Corridor MIS and EIS
For the Proposed Commuter Rail Service
January 29, 1999
Contents
.
.
.
.
Overview
In mid-1998 the first phase of the Northstar Corridor Major Investment Study (MIS) between
Minneapolis and the St. Cloud area was initiated. This initial phase of the planning project
produced the following three major products.
· The purpose and need for transportation improvements in the corridor.
. An initial screening of the universe of modal alternatives that resulted in three
multimodal transportation strategies for futher analysis. All of the build strategies
include commuter rail service between Minneapolis and the St. Cloud area. A No-
Build and a Transportation Management strategy will also be further analyzed during
the completion of the MIS.
· A feasibility analysis of commuter rail service in the corridor.
The conclusion of the analysis of commuter rail service is that the service is feasible. The four
major supporting factors are as follows:
. There is a strong indication based on demand capacity modeling conducted by BNSF
that sufficient capacity to accommodate the proposed commuter rail service could be
developed with capacity improvements to accommodate both freight and commuter
rail.
.
. The forecasts of ridership, the capital cost estimate, and the operating and
maintenance cost estimate are very comparable to recently built systems.
. No major negative environmental impacts are expected.
. The recently completed MnDOT Commuter Rail Study concluded that commuter rail
should be pursued in the Twin Cities and that the Northstar Corridor was the priority
corridor.
When the MIS was initiated, the plan was to complete the MIS in two phases with the second
starting when funding was available in 1999. Given the conclusions of the first phase of the MIS,
the plan is slightly modified to proceed with the project development process as follows:
. Complete the MIS over the next nine to twelve months with the product being the
definition of the Locally Preferred Transportation Investment Strategy for the
Northstar Corridor.
. Since all build alternatives still under consideration contain the commuter rail mode,
advance this component with an MISfl>..TEP A integrated process approach to address
the environmental factors as part of the MIS.
This document defines the work tasks to be conducted to complete the MIS and complete
environmental clearance for commuter rail service.
.
Draft Work Program for Northstar Corridor MIS and EIS
For the Proposed Commuter Rail Service
January 29, 1999
1
Overview
Assumptions
.
The following assumptions are made for the work program and cost estimate.
. The geographic scope of the commuter rail service for the environmental
clearance will be Minneapolis to the St. Cloud area with service termination
either in east St. Cloud, downtown St. Cloud or Rice.
. The environmental clearance for the extension of the Hiawatha LRT service
from First Avenue North to the multi-modal downtown station will be part of
the Northstar Corridor work program.
. The general approach will be to use a MIS/Option 2 with the environmental
clearance included as part of the MIS for the commuter rail service.
. The level of improvements to be made to the BNSF railroad tracks that would
affect the environmental analysis will be agreed to by BNSF by July 1, 1999.
. The key environmental issue areas are expected to be:
Noise
Traffic at stations
Right-of-way required for stations and the maintenance facility
Land use
Cultural resources
.
. An EIS will be prepared.
. The federal EIS will suffice for any state environmental requirements.
. The level of engineering to be completed will be sufficient to support the
environmental analysis.
. The station planning and design will define the required right-of-way.
. The following special studies will be completed:
Revised ridership forecasts
New Starts criteria
Refined rail operations plan
Refined feeder bus plan
Financial plan
Maintenance facility location
Land use impacts
Station area planning and design
Project Management Plan
Dispatch Planning Model
.
Draft Work Program for Northstar Corridor MIS and EIS
For the Proposed Commuter Rail Service
January 29, 1999
2
Assumptions
.
Work Program
1.0 Complete Phase II of the Northstar Corridor :MIS
1.1 Refine the Transportation Strategies to be Evaluated
1.1.1 No-Build Alternative
Refine the fixed facilities and transit improvements included in the Transportation
Improvement Program (TIPs) along the corridor; these projects will be included
in the No-Build Alternative.
1.1.2 Transportation Management
Refine the low-cost infrastructure improvements and bus transit improvements for
the corridor. Included will be Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS), Travel
Demand Management, bus operations, and Transportation Systems Management
improvements. The initial work completed during Phase I will be used as the
base.
1.1.3 Transportation Strategy 1
Refine the strategy that includes commuter rail service and feeder bus
improvements.
.
1.1.4 Transportation Strategy 2
Refine the strategy that includes the improvements in Strategy 1 plus minor
upgrades to TH 10. The candidate minor improvements include selected
interchanges, access control, frontage road development, signal
improvements/coordination, etc.
1.1.5 Transportation Strategy 3
Refine the strategy that includes the improvements in Strategy 2 plus new
Mississippi River crossing(s).
The results will be documented in a Technical Memorandum.
1.2 Define the Evaluation Framework
The evaluation framework will include the same four subject areas used in Phase I:
. Mobility benefits
. Safety benefits
. Environmental impacts including land use
. Costs
The specific evaluation criteria will be more numerous than those used in Phase I.
.
Draft Work Program for Northstar Corridor MIS and EIS
For the Proposed Commuter Rail Service
January 29, 1999
3
Work Program
1.3
Evaluate the Alternative Transportation Strategies
.
The evaluation criteria defined in Task 1.2 will be applied to the alternative strategies
defined in Task 1.1. The results will be documented in a Technical Memorandum.
1.4 Select the Locally Preferred Transportation Investment Strategy (LPTIS)
Based on the evaluation of the alternative strategies, the NCDA will select a LPTIS. The
LPTIS will be multi-modal and likely include a commuter rail component, a roadway
element, and a comprehensive transportation management program.
1.5 Financial Plan
For the LPTIS a financial plan will be developed for each modal component. The plan
will identify the following:
. Capital cost
. Operating and maintenance cost
. Candidate funding sources
1.6 Implementation Program
The implementation program for the LPTIS will include the following:
.
. Schedule for implementation for each modal element
. Responsible public agency
. Candidate funding sources
. Proposed project development process for each modal element
1. 7 Prepare MIS Report
A draft Northstar Corridor MIS Report will be produced. After review and comment by
the Project Management Team (PMT) and NCDA, a final report will be prepared.
.
Draft Work Program for Northstar Corridor MIS and EIS
For the Proposed Commuter Rail Service
January 29, 1999
4
Work Program
.
.
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2.0
Conduct Special Studies
2.1
Station Area Planning and Design
For each proposed commuter rail station the following work will be completed.
. Station functional requirements - defines the intermodal transfer
requirements, parking needs, and expected ridership.
· Station area plan - a plan for quarter to half mile around each station that
addresses relationships to land use and access.
. Station site plan - plan will include:
Platform and canopy configurations
Auto access and egress
Feeder bus access and egress
Number and layout of parking spaces
Pedestrian circulation
Landscape treatments
Right-of-way requirements
Adjacent land uses
· Preliminary station architecture - a program will be defined for each station
platform and station design concepts will be prepared.
2.2 lAnd Use Impacts
An assessment of the impacts on land use development with and without the commuter
rail service will be made. Policies will be developed which would enhance station area
development. This work will be closely coordinated with each local unit of government,
the Metropolitan Council and the S1. Cloud APO. The work will also be input to the New
Starts criteria evaluation.
2.3 Refine Rail Operations Plan
The preliminary commuter rail operations plan prepared in the Phase I MIS will be
refined. The peak. periods and midday service frequency, travel times and deadhead
travel will be defined. A business plan will be developed for the operation of the
commuter rail service including costs, staff, etc. This will be the basis for the request for
proposals (RFP) for the service operator.
2.4 Refine Feeder Bus Plan
The feeder bus plan prepared in the Phase I MIS will be refined in consultation with all
involved transit agencies.
Draft Work Program for Northstar Corridor MIS and EIS
For the Proposed Commuter Rail Service
January 29, 1999
5
Work Program
2.5
Refine Ridership Projections
.
The commuter rail ridership projections prepared in the Phase I MIS will be refined for
both opening day of service and the Year 2020. An adequate level of detail for the travel
forecasting model is essential to differentiate key market areas and patronage potential
trade-offs between the alternatives and the design alternative. Additionally, special event
ridership will be assessed. From a technical perspective, the following detailed modeling
issues must be addressed.
. Land use assumptions for areas within adjacent stations need to reflect community
consensus and realistic market-oriented zoning based on officially adopted long range
plans.
. Level of zonal and network detail should accurately represent the different mode of
access options (e.g., walk, bus, park-and-ride, and drop off).
. A TSM Alternative must be represented that is politically and financially as a point of
comparison.
. The Build Alternative represented in the model (commuter rail) should reflect a
feeder bus system that is financially achievable to secure Ff A approval.
Outputs from the refinement of the ridership projections will include the following
variables.
.
. Daily and peak ridership
. Boardings and alightings and each station
. Individual link volumes
. Station-to-station volumes
. Average speed and trip length comparisons
. Transfer incidence and patterns
. Feeder bus ridership
. Diversion of auto trips to transit
. Auto trip access to stations
. Peak-hour transit trips by mode and line
Additionally, travel model related indices will be prepared for submittal to the FfA and
will include travel time savings, incremental trips, passenger miles, and passenger hours.
2.6 Financial Plan
The financial plan will define the following:
. Revenue stream required for capital costs.
. Revenue stream required for the operating costs.
. Candidate revenue sources including innovative sources, from federal, state,
regional, and local governments.
.
Draft Work Program for Northstar Corridor MIS and EIS
For the Proposed Commuter Rail Service
January 29, 1999
6
Work Program
.
2.7
Implementation Plan
The implementation plan will identify the implementation method to be used; candidate
methods are:
. Design, bid and build
. Designlbuild
. Designlbuild/operate/maintain
The institutional arrangements will also be defined for design, construction, and
operation of the commuter rail service and feeder bus service. This task will include
coordination with Metro Transit, St. Cloud MTC, Metropolitan Council and MnlDOT.
2.8 New Starts Criteria
The Ff A required evaluation for inclusion in the Section 5309 Report to Congress will be
completed and include:
. Mobility improvements
. Environmental benefits
. Operating efficiencies
. . Cost -effectiveness
. Land use
. Other factors
. Financial plan
This work will be closely coordinated with the PMT, Metropolitan Council, and FfA
staff.
2.9 Project Management Plan (PMP)
The PMP will define the following:
. Project organization
. Project management and control
. Wark tasks
. Communications program
The initial PMP will be continuously updated throughout the project.
2.10 Continue Dispatch Planning Model
.
Analysis of freight and passenger rail operations will continue until closure is reached
with BNSF on the required improvements.
Draft Work Program for Northstar Corridor MIS and EIS
For the Proposed Commuter Rail Service
January 29, 1999
7
Work Program
3.0
Public Involvement and Agency Coordination
A comprehensive and proactive public and agency involvement program will be
conducted to support the EIS process, Phase II of the MIS, and the station area planning
process.
The initial program to be completed will be defined by the PMT; this program will define
a comprehensive approach for community/public involvement and agency coordination.
The program will be continuously monitored to assess results; when required,
modifications will be made.
3.1 Public Involvement
Provide consultant support in developing presentations at project and public meetings.
Support may include developing presentation materials including text, graphic displays,
boards, etc.
3.2 Agency Coordination
Coordinate with agencies involved in or affected by the project as required to complete
the MIS, environmental clearance and FTA New Starts Criteria.
Draft Work Program for Northstar Corridor MIS and EIS
For the Proposed Commuter Rail Service
January 29. 1999
8
Work Program
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4.0
Environmental Clearance of the Commuter Rail Component of the
Northstar Corridor
4.1 Notice of Intent (NOI)
A NOI to prepare an EIS for the commuter rail service in the Northstar Corridor will be
prepared, reviewed with the Federal Transit Administration (FT A) staff, revised as
necessary, and transmitted to FT A for filing.
4.2 Purpose and Need
The purpose and need work completed during the Phase I of the MIS will be updated as
necessary.
4.3 Scoping
A Scoping Information Booklet will be prepared. It will summarize background on the
project, project purpose and objectives, proposed public involvement process, alternatives
to be assessed, key issues to be analyzed, and the project schedule. The booklet will be
distributed to all interested agencies, organizations and individuals. A scoping
meeting(s) will be held. A Scoping Summary Report will be prepared that documents the
results of the meetings and the decisions of the NCDA and FT A.
4.4
Alternatives Definition
The No-Build and the Build Alternative, commuter rail service, will be defined. The
Transportation Management Alternative will not be included in the EIS, but will be
defined for the required comparisons in the New Starts criteria evaluation.
4.5 Draft EIS
The following work will be completed under this task:
4.5.1 Social Impact Assessment
Land use
Community facilities
Socio-economic
Environmental justice
Archeological and historic
Determination of Section 4(f) involvement
Visual/aesthetic
Farmlands
Displacements and relocation
Draft Work Program for Northstar Corridor MIS and EIS
For the Proposed Commuter Rail Service
January 29, 1999
9
Work Program
4.5.2 Natural Impact Assessment
Hydrologic and natural features
Wetlands
Biological
4.5.3 Physical Impact Assessment
Air quality
Noise/vibration
Contaminated soils
Water quality
Floodplain
Energy
Traffic
4.5.4 Construction Impact Assessment
4.5.5 Environmental Impact Mitigation Measures
4.5.6 Preliminary EIS Document
4.5.7 FT A Approval of DE IS
4.5.8 Distribute DEIS
4.6 Conduct DEIS Public Hearing(s)
.
.
The following activities will be completed:
. Secure meeting locations
. Advertise hearings
. Prepare handout materials
. Assist in making presentations .
. Prepare transcripts
. Record all comments received
.
Draft Work Program for Northstar Corridor MIS and EIS
For the Proposed Commuter Rail Service
January 29, 1999
10
Work Program
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4.7
PElS Preparation
The following activities will be completed:
. Respond to public and review agency comments on the DEIS.
. Resolve any DEIS issues and defined mitigation measures.
. Identify the environmental permits that will be required prior to construction
of the commuter rail.
. Prepare a FEIS document.
. Obtain FTA approval ofFEIS.
. Provide an environmental analysis for the LPTIS.
. Prepare and assist FT A with the Notice of Availability of the FEIS and EP A
with placement of the notice in the Federal Register.
4.8 Record of Decision (ROD)
.
Two major activities will be the preparation of the ROD and approval of the ROD by the
FTA.
.
Draft Work Program for Northstar Corridor MIS and EIS
For the Proposed Commuter Rail Service
January 29, 1999
11
Work Program
5.0
Engineering Support
.
The following work will be completed at a level of detail to support the preparation of the
EIS:
5.1 Prepare base maps.
5.2 Conduct preliminary geotechnical investigations.
5.3 Coordinate alignment drawings for new track with BNSF who will prepare
drawings, including right-of-way requirements.
5.4 Quantify and prepare conceptual solutions for utility impacts.
5.5 Develop conceptual solutions for required street reconstruction and
intersection improvements.
5.6 Complete conceptual systems engineering including vehicles, fare
collection, signal systems, and communication systems.
5.7 Determine location of maintenance facility.
5.8
Develop conceptual layout of the storage yard and shop facility, including
vehicle storage, vehicle maintenance building, operations facility, and
ancillary systems and security facilities.
.
5.9 Prepare conceptual engineering for each commuter rail station, bus staging
areas, park and ride lots, and access roadways.
5.10 Prepare refined capital cost estimate.
.
Draft Work Program for Northstar Corridor MIS and EIS
For the Proposed Commuter Rail Service
January 29, 1999
12
Work Program
.
6.0
BNSF Coordination
A letter of commitment between BNSF and the NCDA will be prepared and agreed to
during this task. The letter will define the following:
. Availability of track use
. Track improvements required
. System improvements required
. Responsibility for improvements
. Financial plan
. Time schedule
. Provide technical support in the negotiation of the letter of commitment
between the BNSF and NCDA that will be negotiated and agreed to during
this phase of work.
.
This activity includes support for the legal counsel negotiating the letter of commitment.
.
Draft Work Program for Northstar Corridor MIS and EIS
For the Proposed Commuter Rail Service
January 29, 1999
13
Work Program
7.0
Project Management
The following tasks will be completed:
. Prepare a work breakdown structure (WBS) for the tasks to be completed.
. Prepare and maintain a project master schedule.
. Develop, maintain, and monitor project costs.
. Prepare project progress reports.
. Establish and implement a document and drawing control system.
. Develop and implement a project staffing plan.
. Execute and administer subcontracts.
. Establish and implement a cost accounting system geared to the WBS.
. Provide required administrative support services.
. Establish and implement a quality control and assurance plan.
Draft Work Program for Northstar Corridor MIS and EIS
For the Proposed Commuter Rail Service
January 29. 1999
14
Work Program
.
.
.
t::: )(ec c........k ~ 5
N L D {.\. ~ 2. c.....
.
Satveer Chaudhary
State Representative
Minnesota
House of
Representatives
District 52A
Anoka and Ramsey Counties
Phil Carruthers, Speaker
. COMMITTEES: EDUCATION; HIGHER EDUCATION FINANCE; FACILITIES SUBCOMMITTEE; j~J~y; ~~tw.] S~C~
January 11, 1999CE-CHAIR, CIVIL & FAMILY LAW; LOCAL GOVERNMENT & METR1JOOP. OL tAN AFFAIRS
. . JAN 121998
Northstar Corridor Committee
2100 - 3rd Avenue THE ANOKA COUNTY
Anoka, MN 55303-2265 ADMINISTRATOR'S OFFICE
Dear Committee Members:
I am writing about an ongoing concern I have had regarding the adequacy of the number and
location of rail stops proposed for the commuter rail line that will run between Minneapolis and
8t. Cloud. Any assistance you can give me in addressing my concern will be greatly appreciated.
.
I am seeking your help because I want to ensure that all Anoka County residents will be served
by the line. Currently, I don't believe that will be the case. I believe that the lack of a rail stop at
the southern end of the county near Columbia Heights will result in residents of that area being
under-served by the commuter line. Consequently, a stop somewhere in the area of 37th to 44th
A venue is warranted for several reasons.
First, commuters living in the southern end of Anoka County near Columbia Heights who want
to take the rail south to Minneapolis are unlikely to drive to Fridley for a connection. Common
sense says that a resident at 39th and Polk in Columbia Heights will forgo the drive to Northtown
(practically) and simple drive to Minneapolis on their own. We need to ensure that doesn't
happen. A rail stop near the southern tip of the county will help prevent that from occurring.
Second, as you move closer to the city of Minneapolis, the concentration of people increases. As
the population concentrations increase, more stations placed closer together is not unwarranted.
Therefore, even though a rail station is planned for northern Fridley, an additional station a short
distance south can increase ridership for the rail service and provide return to taxpaying residents
of southern Anoka County.
.
Third, providing adequate service to the residents of southern Anoka County is especially
important when looking at the long-term plans for light rail transit. I want to ensure that all
Anoka County residents will have the option of using the commuter rail line to link up with the
planned LRT line running from Minneapolis to the Mall of America and the airport. However, if
there is no rail stop at the southern tip of the county, residents of that area will be precluded from
taking advantage of the light rail line because, as I mentioned earlier, people are unlikely to drive
to the north end of Fridley for a connection heading south.
1601 North Innsbruck Drive, Fridley, Minnesota 55432
507 State Office Building, 100 Constitution Ave., SI. Paul, Minnesota 55155-1298
no FAX (612) 296-4165
~20.1
(612) 571-0897
(612) 296-4331
.-G
Page 2
Fourth, the idea that a so-called feeder system can alleviate this issue is flawed for the following
reasons: the system is supported to be convenient, and with the scenario stated above, it is not;
and, it actually inhibits ridership. One needs to wait for feeders, then for more than one train not
to mention having more than one stop along the way.
For these and many other reasons, I am sure you will agree with me that placing an additional
rail stop near Columbia Heights is warranted. I hope you will do all that you can to see that such
a stop is built.
Thank you.
Sincerely,
?~
Satveer Chaudhary
State Representative
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.
.
.
.
Northstar Corridor Legislative Representatives
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Congo
CitylTwnshp. Dist.
Anoka
Becker
Big Lake
Blaine
Clear Lake
Columbia Hts.
Coon Rapids
Elk River
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F~idl~y
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Rice
US Rep
6
8
8
6
Bill Luther
Jim Oberstar
Jim Oberstar
Bill Luther
8
6
6
Jim Oberstar
Bill Luther
Bill Luther
8
8
6
5
Jim Oberstar
Jim Oberstar
Bill Luther
Martin Sabo
2
6
8
Davi~ fv1i~~El
Bill Luther
Jim Oberstar
Icompany/Northstar Corridor Leg Reps
.
D.C.
Phone
AC 202 Local Phone Leg. Dist.
Jim Abeler 49A
- -- --'~-----------"--",'-'-
Mark Olson 19A
_.._._~--_.. ---~---'----'-"'-,,-
Mark Olson 19A
Alice Johnson 48B
--__.__~___ __u___ .~_
I(athy Ti~flEl!~!~~~Q~
Andy \iVesterberfj 51A
Phil Krinke 53A
Mark Olson 19A
~CltvElEl~~~au~~ry ~2~
Alice Johnson 48B
-. - .-----" ..------- ----- ,----
Jim Abeler 49A
______n.._______..____
Luanne Koskinen 49B 301 SOB 296-4231
- - ---..... - -. ----......--- .0- __.___.___.0___._______________ '________ ___.._._______ .____.__..______n_.'_ .....________________ _u_ _.__.___ _________
225-6211 612-241-0188 19 Bruce Anderson 19B 411 SOB 296-5063 Mark Ourada 145 SOB 296-5981
- ------------.-- -- '....-.--.-----.--- --_-0 _nO. _n__._. ---...------ _ ------- .....--- ..---.-__ .___ __...,_______ __.___.____._.__".__~ ____._______.~_.___.__. __6_______.___ .__.~___._ ".______. .
225-6211 612-241-0188 17 Leslie Schumacher 17B 327 SOB 296-5377 Dan Stevens 105 SOB 296-8075
- - .-..------------ .--...-....-.------------..----. ._._______~_ __ n_ __ .__~_...__..~_~_._.._____.______ ~_____ ._____.____ ___~_____ .____ _______.._______~.. ______________._ _____._______._.___
2~~=???~__ ~~!=~Q.=~~~~. __~~__ ~Ii~~~~~!!~~~~~~_ ___ ~~~~QB ?96-5~1Q_ ~()!'1~~~()!~_..__._ ~Q~_~~p___ ?~~-?556
225-4755 612-6~~-~099 58 Joe fIIIull~ry 58A 387 ~O~ _. ?96-4262 Lind~ !-lifjgin~ 226 Ca~ ~96-9246
~r~~()ry~~~y ~~~ ..u____ ??~~Q!3_ ?~~=~~~~._ __. . _ _.._ _ _ ____
-~~- - -.. ~El!'1~!El~!'1~!~~~_____ 3Q~~QB 29~~?1~. Lawrenc~?o[~-'!1i11er _ 23~~~e._ ~~~::.?80~
_ f>hy"i~ ~~~~ ~~~ .. _. . n . ____ ?~~ ~Q~_ ?~~~?~?_ .._
rv1Clrg~~Elt A. Kl:!lIi~El~~OA __ 231 ~q~_ ?~~=9171 _ ~r~!'1 ~eEl~r
rv1yr()!'1 ()~~~~ ~9~ ~?! ~()~_ .?~~=~?~1_ _ _
K~ren ~I~rk ~1A_ ~Q?_SQ~_ ?~~:2~~_~_ Lin~~~El~flli!'1
L.in~~ Y"l:!iC:rTl~!'1~1~___ ~~_~Q~__ 2~~-!!52_____
_m~?_ Le~ ~rElEl~~ElI~ ~?.t\____ ?Q?n~Q~_ ?~~:2!?~n_ Car~~~.!l!'1I1________ ~?Q~~p__?~~~??~
,^,e~~~()~lund ~?!3____?~1~Q~ ~~~~~~Q. _n .___n
Je~~Y"~~Elnill.~ ~~~____ ???_~Q~_ 296~?QQuuJa!'1El..!3~ll.rTl_. u_u_ ~9~~~e_ ?~~=80~!
,Mar~~!~~~~11 ~~~_____ ~!~~2!=!. 29~::~~!~__ _
Bruce Anderson 19B 411 SOB 296-5063 Mark Ourada 145 SOB 296-5981
-.... ---+---------.----.---. ~ --- - - -__ __ __ __ _.__n______ ____.________._. .__,,___.__. __._.__.____ ____ _+. ___._____ ______ .__~___._
Kath}'Tin~elsta~ ~9~____ ~~?~Q~ ?~~~~~~_ !,~~I~!-I~!'1s()~ _u___u .~~~ ~ap ~~~-~?19
Steve Dehler 14A 491 SOB 296-7808 Michelle Fischbach 149 SOB 296-2084
225-2271
-.".--. ._--------...
225-6211
- .-- ....- --
225-6211
225-2271
651-730-4949
--.------,.. ..._-------,,-----
612-241-0188
_'_~__'_n'____~n_ ___...
612-241-0188
651-730-4949
225-6211 612-241-0188
225-2271 651-730-4949
---.- ...~-_.._---. ---.----------- -----_.~.
225-2271 651-730-4949
225-2331 320-269-9311
.-----. ---_. -. ...-.-----.-- -_..~--
225-2271 651-730-4949
-~-- ."-----..- ._,- -----.----
225-6211 612-241-0188
19
--.....--------..--
50
14
Leg.Rep
49
19
19
48
50
51
53
19
52
48
49
60
61
63
.
Phone
Address AC 651
State Senator
Phone
Address AC 651
-..... -'" -----
U _n ~~1_~2~ __ ?96=1!?~_ !-~~ ~()IElY ~-~.~~e~n ?~~~1 ~~
501 SOB 296-4237 Mark Ourada 145 SOB 296-5981
"-~.-.-."'---.- --.-----__..______ .~__._._ .._u__._.__._____ ~___......__._.__._.._._ ._. ~__.. ..___ .__ _
501 SOB 296-4237 Mark Ourada 145 SOB 296-5981
- --- -
~4~ ~Q~_ ~~~-~~!Q _.I?()n !3e~old __~q~nc;~P_. 296-?~5~
-- ~~! ~Q!3_ ?~~=~~~~_!'~ll.I~ !-I~!'1~~I1__u~_~?~~~e ?~~=~?19
523 ~013 _ ?96-42?~ Jane Krentz ?~~ CClP 296-7061
365 SOB 296-2907 Linda Runbeck 107 SOB 296-1253
501 SOB 296-4237 Mark Ourada 145 SOB 296-5981
__n._ '" ._._ ____
u_ ~11~2I3u_ ?~~~~~!_~!El\lEl!'1 ~~v~~____~?~g~e. ~~~~~~~
~~~~QB ?~~~~~Q.Qon~etz.C>!~__ ~Q~_c;~eu__ ?~~=?~~~_
581 SQ!=!._?~~=_.!??~ ~El()~~IEltm__u__._ ~=~.s;~~._ ?~~~1~~
1?qgae . 29~~~~1
~Q~ugap ~~~=~?~~
.-----.-----.---- - --~---- ------~---- -----------_.--_._._----~-"_._- ...--------.-.-- -.--.---.------
1
US HOuef Representatives
District Rep D.C. Address
2 David Minge 1415 Longworth HOB
Washington, DC 20515
.
.
Local Address
542 1 st Street S
Montivideo 56265
E-mail
On World Wide Web: WWW.house.govlwriterep
3 Jim Ramstad 103 Cannon HOB 8120 Penn Ave. S mn03@mail.house.gov
Washington, DC 20515 Bloomington 55431
4 Bruce Vento 2413 Rayburn HOB 175 5th Street E vento@mail.house.gov
Washington, DC 20515 Room 727, Box 100
St. Paul 55101
5 Martin Sabo 2336 Rayburn HOB 250 2nd Ave. S, #286 martin.sabo@mail.house.gov
Washington, DC 20515 Minneapolis 55401
6 Bill Luther 117 Cannon HOB 1811 Weir Dr., #150 tell. bill@mail.house.gov
Washington, DC 20515 Woodbury 55125
7 Collin Peterson 2159 Rayburn HOB 110 S. 2nd St., #112 collin. peterson@mail.house.gov
Washington, DC 20515 Waite Park 56387
8 Jim Oberstar 2366 Rayburn HOB 13065 Orono Pkwy oberstar@mail.house.gov
Washington, DC 20515 Elk River 55330
US Senate
Rod Grams 257 Dirksen SOB 2013 2nd Ave N maiLgrams@grams.senate.gov
Washington, DC 20510 Anoka 55303
202-224-3244 612-427-5921
Paul Wellstone 136 Hart SOB 2550 University Ave W On World Wide Web: WWW.senate.gov
Washington, DC St. Paul 55114-1025
800-642-6041 651-645-0323
Norths.orridor Legislative Representatives
.
.
D.C. , I ! I I I
I
I Congo Phone Phone Phone
CitylTwnshp. I Dist. US Rep AC 202 Local Phone Leg. Dist. Leg. Rep Address AC 651 State Senator Address AC 651
Saulk Rapids ~~? Collin Peterson 225-2165 320-259-0559 16 Joe Opatz 16A 281 SOB 296-6612 Dave Kleis 143 SOB 296-6455
Spring Lake parD Bruce Vento 225-6631 651-224-4503 48 Alice Johnson 48B 349 SOB 296-5510 Oon Betzold 306 Cap 296-2556
6 Bill Luther 225-2271 651-730-4949 .
St. Cloud -~~- ~ 7-rCollin Peterson 225-2165 320-259-0559 16 Joe Opatz 16A 281 SOB 296-6612 Dave Kleis 143 SOB 296-6455
17 Leslie Schumacher 17B 327 SOB 296-5377 Dan Stevens 105 SOB 296-8075
St. Cloud 8 Jim Oberstar 225-6211 612-241-0188 16 Joe Opatz 16A 281 SOB 296-6612 Dave Kleis 143 SOB 296-6455
Jim Knoblach 16B 451 SOB 296-6316 I
----j-
I
-_______.J"_"
Note addresses for state offices:
Capitol (Cap) -75 Constitution Ave., St. Paul, MN 55155-1606
State Office Building (SOB) -100 Constitution Ave., St. Paul, MN 55155-1206
lcompany/Northstar Corridor Leg Reps
2
.
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 15 · 1999
* STAR TRIBUNE · PAGE B3
,J$.t,
INSIDE talk
News, information and observations from the
. halls of gooernment and the campaign trail
. ..... ...... .... ..... ....... .......0" .... II..".... ..." ..J< c.. 01 ..."'.. .oO."..
Looking down the line
with commuter-rail plan
.
Elwyn Tinklenberg, the new governor's new
commissioner of transportation, showed his
political savvy last week when he altered a two-
year study on the feasibility of using freight rail
tracks to carry Twin Cities commuter trains..
The study proposed an initial line running
from Minneapolis to the city of Ramsey in
Anoka County.
On the job a couple of weeks, Tinklenberg
reviewed the study before it was submitted to
the Legislature and extended the line a few miles
northwest to Elk River in Sherburne County. In a
cover letter to key legislators, Tinklenberg
explained that it made sense to extend the line to
Elk River, where it would meet two major roadways, Hwys. 169 and 10.
But there's another reason, the commissioner told a reporter. Elk
River is in the Eighth Congressional District, the home turf of U.S.
Rep. Jim Oberstar, a Democrat and a major player in transportation
policy and funding.
- Robert Whereatt
Elwyn TInklenberg:
Wheels are turning.
.
.