Loading...
4.3. SR 07-19-1999 rei ---'\) ( )j ~l}{ Item # 4 . 3 . MEMORANDUM River TO: FROM: Mayor and City Council Scott Radicker, Senior Planner~ July 19, 1999 DATE: SUBJECT: Northstar Corridor Update At the July 1, 1999 meeting of the Northstar Corridor Development Authority the Authority received a legislative update, received information on station area planning, received an update on the Major Investment Study and the EIS process, and the BSNF negotiations. Attached is the packet from the July 1st meeting; the Mayor will be providing a summary of the July meeting. . . F:\SHRDOC\PLANNING\SCOTT\NCDAJUL.DOC 13065 Orono Parkway · P.O. Box 490 · Elk River, MN 55330 · TDD & Phone: (612) 441-7420 · Fax: (612) 441-7425 JtJ ,\u2 6 1991 Northstar Corridor Development Authority Thursday, July 1, 1999 4:30 p.m. Sherburne County Government Center Elk River, MN 1. Action Requested Approval Minutes of June 3, 1999 Meeting* 2. Executive Committee Report a. Proposed 2000 Administrative Budget* Consider Executive Committee Recommendation Information Information b. Legislative Briefing c. Congressman Oberstar's July 7 Corridor Tour 3. Update on Station Area Planning* Information 4. Update on BNSF Negotiations Information 5. MIS lEIS a. Phase I Study Report Documents b. Update on EIS Scoping Process c. No-Build Alternative* d. Transportation System Management Alternative (TSM)* e. TH 10 I TH 47 Roadway Alternatives* Small Group Discussions Distribution Information Approval Approval 7. Other 8. Next Meeting: August 5, 1999 *Attached f . . . DRAFT DRAFT DRAFT NORTHST AR CORRIDOR DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY Ree:ular Meetin~ Minutes June 3. 1999 The Northstar Corridor Development Authority met on June 3, 1999, at 4:30 p.m. at the Sherburne County Government Center, Elk River, Minnesota. The followine: members. alternates and citizens were present: Tim Yantos, Stephanie Eiler, Yvonne Chaillet, Robert Kirchner, Dick Wolsfeld, Patrick Cairns, Mike Christensen, JeanneWitzeg, Dan Meyers, Robert Monk, Stephanie Klinzing, Scott Harlicker, Dean Michalko, Jim Barten, Rick Speak, Lewis Stark, Gerry Donlin, Duane Grandy, Don Jolly, John Norgren, Jim Dickinson, Duane Cekalla, Carl Yilek, Gerald Goebel, Steve Billings, Tom Gamec, Tom Cruikshank, Gary Hammer, Ken Paulson, Dave Saunders, Dan Erhart, Ken Stevens, Mary Richardson, Jean M. Keely, David Loch, Betsy Wergin 1. Chairperson Wergin called the meeting to order at 4:30 p.m. 2. A motion was made by Gerry Donlin, seconded by John Norgren and carried unanimously to approve the agenda of June 3, 1999, as presented. A motion was made by Duane Grandy, seconded by Pat Cairns and carried unanimously to approve the meeting minutes of May 6, 1999, regular meeting minutes as presented. 3. Executive Committee Report: a. A motion was made by John Norgren, seconded by Dave Sanders and carried unanimously to approve the Revised 1999 Northstar Corridor Development Authority Budget, dated May 12, 1999, as presented. (on file at Richardson Richter & Associates) b. A motion was made by Ken Paulson, seconded by Gerry Donlin and carried unanimously to approve the recommendation of the Executive Committee to enter into an Agreement for Professional Services with David Loch for the term June 3, 1999 to December 31, 1999 for a contract amount not to exceed $30,000 (hourly rate of$75.00). , c. A motion was made by Duane Grandy, seconded by Jerry Goebel and carried unanimously to approve the recommendation of the Executive Committee that the Joint Powers Agreement not be amended at this time and that the Ramsey County Regional Railroad Authority (RCRRA) be welcomed to attend NCDA meetings to facilitate the exchange of information and coordination. . 4. Commissioners Erhart and Wergin, Stephanie Eiler, Tim Yantos, and Mary Richardson reported on the APT A Commuter Rail Conference, which was recently held in Toronto. 5. Mary Richardson provided a wrap-up of the 1999 legislative session. Mn/DOT must adopt a commuter rail system plan by January 15,2000. The plan is to incorporate elements of existing Regional Railroad Authorities' (RRA's) plans and engineering standards (rail equipment, facilities, services including security, station design parameters, farebox systems, and safety). The system plan will be done in consultation with the RRA's. Both the system plan and the advanced corridor plan require MPO approval. A Commuter Rail Corridor Coordinating Committee must be established to advise the Commissioner of Transportation on alternative analysis, environmental review, advanced corridor planning, PE, FD, implementation method, construction, public involvement, land use, service and safety. In the Northstar Corridor, the NCDA will serve as the Coordinating Committee. RRA's will be required to enter into a memorandum of understanding with MnlDOT. . Sixty million dollars ($60 ml) in bonding authority was authorized for the Hiawatha LR T system. 6. The Authority reviewed a letter directed to D.J. Mitchell, Burlington Northern Santa Fe (BNSF), from Mr. Tim Yantos, requesting an acknowledgement from BNSF that the NCDA expects to commence commuter rail service in the Northstar Corridor in 2003, utilizing the existing BNSF right-of-way, freight tracks, and facilities and requests assistance from BNSF in accomplishing its goal of providing convenient, reliable, efficient and cost effective commuter rail service. Mr. Yantos presented the response from BNSF. 7. The Authority reviewed the draft principles for station area location and planning presented by Ken Stevens. A motion was made by Pat Cairns, seconded by Lewis Stark and carried unanimously to add the word "safely" in the first bullet under Community Integration, A. Access, to read as follows: "Provide access on a public street system that safely accommodates added traffic demands generated by the facility. " . . . . A motion was made by Tom Gamec, seconded by Paul Ostrow and carried unanimously to approve the Principles for Station Area Location and Planning dated May 26, 1999, including Goals, Station Location (service and safety) and Community Integration (access, land use, and park and ride facilities). 8. BR W distributed and reviewed the Definition of Alternatives for EIS and MIS Process including a No-Build Alternative, a Transportation System Management (TSM) Alternative, and the Northstar Corridor Phase 2 Major Investment Study Schedule. Dick W olsfeld introduced the EIS and MIS Process and reviewed the Phase 2 MIS Schedule. Jodi Ruehle reviewed the No-Build Alternative and Dan Meyers reviewed the TSM Alternative. No action taken. If NCDA members are aware of any additional sources BRW should consider when analyzing the No-Build Alternative, they should contact BRW with this information. Telecommuting will be added as an alternative under the TSM Alternative. 9. The Federal Transit Administration is issuing a notice to advise interested agencies and the public that a Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS) is being prepared for transit elements of the Northstar Corridor project located in the trunk Highway 10/47 corridor between Minneapolis and the St. Cloud area. The following Interagency and public scoping and informational meetings will be held: Public Scopin!!: Meetings: July 27, 1999 Whitney Senior Community Center St. Cloud 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. July 28, 1999 Sherburne County Courthouse Elk River 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. July 29, 1999 Fridley City Hall Fridley 4:00 p.m. -7:00 p.m. Interagencv Sco{)in!!: Meeting: July 29, 1999 Fridley City Hall Fridley 1 :00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. All comments on the Draft Scoping Booklet are due by June 10, 1999. A motion was made by Steve Billings, seconded by Dave Saunders and carried unanimously . to authorize distribution of the Northstar Project Scoping Booklet, dated June 1999, once final comments are incorporated and the booklet has been completed. 10. Mary Richardson presented an update on Burlington Northern Santa Fe (BNSF) negotiations. The negotiating team met June 2, 1999 to review possible agreements to be negotiated between the NCDA and BNSF and to discuss preparing briefing documents. The next meetings are scheduled for June 28 and 29. No action taken. 11. The next meeting of the Northstar Corridor Development Authority is scheduled for Thursday, July 1, 1999, at 4:30 p.m. at the Sherburne County Government Center. 12. The Vice Chair declared the meeting adjourned at 6:15 p.m. Betsy Wergin Chairperson Date Img\ \ \FS I \SYS\DEP1\COORD\ADMNDA T A \COMMITTE\CORRIDOR\1999\050699.doc . . . *NORTHSTAR CORRIDOR MEMORANDUM June 24, 1999 To: Northstar Corridor Development Authority Executive Committee From: Administrative Team Subject: . Proposed Administrative 2000 Budget . On July 1, 1999 the Executive Committee will consider the proposed Administrative 2000 Budget and make its recommendation to the Authority at its July 1 meeting. Pursuant to Article VII, Section 2 of the Joint Powers Agreement Establishing the Northstar Corridor Development Authority, "By July 1 of each year, the Authority shall adopt an annual administrative budget for the following calendar year, and shall determine the amount of contribution, if any, by each member. The budget and the resulting assessment shall be approved by a two-thirds majority of the Authority. " Action Reauested: That the Executive Committee make its recommendation for approval of the Administrative 2000 Budget to the NCDA and that the NCDA consider and adopt the Administrative 2000 Budget as submitted by the Executive Committee. . Northstar Corridor Development Authority 2100 3rd Avenue, Anoka, Minnesota 55303-2265 (612) 323-5700 Fax: (612) 323-5682 DRAFT: June 25,1999 Northstar Corridor Development Authority . PROPOSED 2000 ADMINISTRATIVE BUDGET 1999 1999 2000 Approved Amended Proposed 1. Authority Expense $10,000 $10,000 $18,000 2. General Coordination/Administration $150,000 $100,000 $100,000 3. Insurance $1,200 $1,200 $2,000 4. Legislative Activities $60,000 $60,000 $80,000 TOTAL $221,200 $171,200 $200,000 Revenues are allocated by population. Allocation is in proportion to population along the corridor (within five miles on either side of the rail line or bounded by the river). Counties or regional railroad authorities pay. STATE AND FEDERAL REQUESTS 2000 Federal Funding Appropriation Request State Funding for Local Match $14,000,000 '$3,500,000 $17,500,00. -\ . . . MEMORANDUM To: Northstar Corridor Development Authority From: BRW, Inc. Date: June 24, 1999 Subject: Northstar Corridor Land Use Analysis & Station Area Planning City Meetings Summary Update 1. City of Elk River Meeting Date: May 13, 1999 Attendees: Patrick Klaers, City Administrator, Elk River Stephen Wensman, Planner, Elk River Stephen Rohlf, Building and Zoning, Elk River Terry Mauer, Engineering, Elk River Scott Harlicker, Planner, Elk River Ken Stephens, NCDA Dave Loch, NCDA Dave Showalter, BRW Tom Harrington, BRW 2. City of Anoka Meeting Date: May 13, 1999 Attendees: Pete Beberg, Mayor, Anoka John Weaver, Councilmember, Anoka Robert Kirchner, Assistant City Manager, Anoka Mark Nagel, City Manager, Anoka Carolyn Braun, City Planner, Anoka Ken Stevens, NCDA Dave Showalter, BRW Tom Harrington, BRW Land Use Analysis & Station Area Planning City Meetings Summary BRW A"DWE.S&MOOREGROOP COMPANy BRW Thresher Square 700 Third Street South Minneapolis, MN 55415 Phone: (612) 370-0700 Fax: (612) 370-1378 June 24, 1999 3. City of St. Cloud Meeting Date: May 17, 1999 Attendees: Patty Gartland, City Planner, St. Cloud Jerry Donlin, Council Member, St. Cloud Steve Gates, Assistant City Engineer, St. Cloud Ken Stevens, NCDA Bill Weber, BRW Tom Harrington, BRW 4. City of Coon Rapids Meeting Date: May 17, 1999 Attendees: Lee Starr, City Planner, Coon Rapids Steve Gatlin, City Engineer, Coon Rapids Jim Barton, Met Council Ken Stevens, NCDA Bill Weber, BRW Tom Harrington, BRW 5. City of Ramsey Meeting Date: May 24, 1999 Attendees: Cindy Sherman, City Planner, Ramsey Jim Norman, City Manager, Ramsey Sean Wolther, Planner, Ramsey David Loch, NCDA Ken Stevens, NCDA Dave Showalter, BRW Bill Weber, BRW 6. City of Becker Meeting Date: May 25, 1999 Attendees: Dave Granning, Community Development Director, Becker Kelly Neu, Becker Ken Paulson, Councilmember, Becker David Loch, NCDA David Showalter, BRW Tom Harrington, BRW }. . . . Land Use Analysis & Station Area Planning City Meetings Summary 2 June 24, 1999 t . . . 7. City Of Fridley Meeting Date: May 26, 1999 Attendees: Barbara Dacy, Community Development Director, Fridley Missy Daniels, Planner, Fridley Jon Haukaas, Assistant Public Works Director, Fridley Scott Hickok, Planner, Fridley John Flora, Public Works Director, Fridley Paul Bolin, Engineering, Fridley Ken Stevens, NCDA Dave Showalter, BRW Tom Harrington, BRW 8. City of Big Lake Meeting Date: May 27, 1999 Attendees: Curtis Jacobsen, City Administrator, Big Lake Deborah Garross, Northwest Associated Consultants David Loch, NCDA Bill Weber, BRW 9. City of Minneapolis Meeting Date: June 10, 1999 Attendees: Bob Morgan, Engineering, Minneapolis Mamie McGrath, Planner, Minneapolis Mike Larson, Planner, Minneapolis Gary Erickson, Hennepin County Tom Yantos, NCDA Stephanie Eiler, NCDA Ken Stevens, NCDA Jim Barton, Met Council Dean Michalko, HCRRA Dave Showalter, BRW Bill Weber, BRW Tom Harrington, BRW 10. City of Clear Lake Meeting Date: June 22, 1999 Attendees: Bill Kifmeyer, Mayor, Clear Lake Marilyn Bugalski, Clerk, Clear Lake Bob Arnold, Clear Lake Council Dale Power, Clear Lake Council Tim Goenner, Clear Lake Council Jim Hentges, Clear Lake Council Jack Gallagher, Township Board Chair Land Use Analysis & Station Area Planning City Meetings Summary 3 June 24,1999 City of Clear Lake Attendees, cont. Deb Seeley, Township Clerk Paul Goenner, Township Treasurer Robert Monk, Township Supervisor Joe Goenner, Township Supervisor Ron Juenemann, Resident Mary Wayons Goenner, Resident David Loch, NCDA Bill Weber, BRW Tom Harrington, BRW 11. City of Rice Meeting Date: June 22,1999 Attendees: Steve Janski, Mayor, Rice Lyn Mohs, Rice Council Duane Cekella, Benton County Commissioner Jim Hovda, Rice Econ, Dev. Commissioner Rick Speak, Benton County Administrator Ron Paterson, Director, Benton County Dept. of Development Carl Yilek, Watab Township Gerald Goebel, Langola Township David Loch, NCDA Bill Weber, BRW Tom Harrington, BRW Land Use Analysis & Station Area Planning City Meetings Summary 4 June 24, 1999 , . . . . DRAFT Northstar Corridor Major Investment Study No-Build Alternative Prepared For Northstar Corridor Development Authority . 1::fIlDIITIIBTJUI DDBBIDDB Prepared By BRW, Inc. 700 Third Street South Minneapolis, MN 55415 June 10, 1999 . . . . 1.1.1. NO-BUILD AL TERNA TIVE As part of Phase II of the Northstar Corridor Major Investment Study (MIS) and Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the Proposed Commuter Rail Service, a number of transportation alternatives will be evaluated. One such alternative is the refinement of a "No-Build" alternative. This alternative includes fixed facilities and transit improvements included in the Transportation Improvement Programs (TIPs) along the corridor. The No-Build alternative encompasses roadway and bus system improvements specified in the appropriate agency Transportation Improvement Plans and Long Range Transportation Plans for which funding has been committed. Committed or programmed transportation projects and existing transit services/facilities along the TH 10 and 1-94 corridors are identified in the following sections. Roadway Projects St. Cloud Metropolitan Area The St. Cloud Metropolitan Area roadway system radiates out from and around the core development in the area. These roadways serve local travel demand in addition to demand generated from outside the area. Travel demand between St. Cloud and the metropolitan area of the Twin Cities continues to increase as the population and economic growth within the corridor Increases, with limited highway expansion expected. Roadway improvement projects programmed for completion by the year 2000 in the St. Cloud Metropolitan Area include the following: St. Cloud Metropolitan Area Pro2rammed Transportation Projects Implementation Agency Facility or Route Project Description Mn/DOT MUN 9 / South Street Install signal and gates at RR crossing at MUN 9 in Rice 7m A venue N. @ I st Railroad crossing signal replacement and Mn/DOT / City of St. Cloud Street N. interconnection with traffic si}U1al in St. Cloud Source: Transportation Plan Update for the St. Cloud Metropolitan Area 1995-2020; Minnesota State Transportation Improvement Program (STlP) 1999-2001; Draft State Transportation Improvement Program (STlP) 2000-2002; Stearns County Transportation Plan; Benton County Highway Department. Mn/DOT District 3 - Benton/Sherburne Counties Benton County includes the Cities of Rice and portions of St. Cloud along the Northstar Corridor. Although there are few committed roadway improvements identified for the area, the County is taking part in a safety improvement corridor study to improve railroad-crossing areas. The main objective is to limit the number of existing railroad crossings; those infrequently used Phase II Northstar Corridor Major Investment Study Draft - No-Build Alternative 1 June 10, 1999 will be closed and while those used more frequently will be improved including full . signalization, gates, etc. Sherburne County, located between the two metropolitan centers of St. Cloud and the Twin Cities, is primarily agricultural and rural. Because of its proximity to these metro areas, significant growth in population and levels of traffic has occurred along TH 10. The City of Elk River experiences particularly high traffic volumes and congestion in the downtown area along TH 10 during peak periods of the day. Congestion is a direct result of numerous signalized intersections within close proximity of one another in this area. Committed transportation projects in the Minnesota Department of Transportation District 3 - Benton/Sherburne County areas include the following: MnlDOT District 3 (Benton/Sherburne Counties) - Pro2rammed Transportation Improvements for F.Y. 1999-2001 Implementation Facility or Route Project Description A2enCY MnlDOT TH 10 Jet Benton CSAH 33 include left turn-lane at median crossover locations Benton County RR Benton County Phase 1 corridor safety improvements Sherburne County RR Safety improvement at RR crossing at CR 55 in Clear Lake . Sherburne County CR 65 @ BNSF RR Install railroad crossing signals and gates in Haven Township Sherburne County CSAH 7 Resurface and widen shoulders from TH 10 to CR 65 in Haven Township Mn/DOT TWN 065 Install signals and gates at RR crossing at 137th Street in Becker Townshio Mn/DOT TH 10 Install flashing beacon near Jet. CR 73 in Big Lake Mn/DOT TWN 182/200T Install signals and gates at RR crossing in Big Lake Township Sherburne County RR Signal modernization at CSAH 1, Proctor Avenue in Elk River City of Elk River TH 10/Waco Signalization and reconfiguration at intersection City of Elk River TH 10/171'1 Signalization Mn/DOT TH 101 Replace bridge over Mississippi River in Elk River Source: Minnesota State Transportation Improvement Program (STIP) 1999-2001; Draft State Transportation Improvement Program (STIP) 2000-2002; Sherburne County Transportation Plan; Sherburne County Capital Improvement Plan. . 2 - Phase II Northstar Corridor Major Investment Study Draft - No-Build Alternative June 10, 1999 . Wright County Wright County is located adjacent to the Twin Cities metropolitan area. Although it is primarily rural, the County continues to experience development, particularly in the eastern portion. Interstate 94 runs through the northeast portion of the County and serves as a major throughway between the Twin Cities and the St. Cloud metropolitan area west of the Mississippi River. As a result, significant growth in some communities located in between these metro areas has occurred. Committed transportation projects in the Minnesota Department of Transportation District 3 - Wright County area include the following: MnlDOT District 3 (Wright County)- Pro~rammed Transportation Improvements for F.Y.1999-2002 Implementation Agency Facility or Route Project Description Mn/DOT TH25 New 4 lane from 1-94 to S of CR 117 @ Monticello Mn/DOT TH25 Construct loop and park & ride lot at 1-94 in Monticello Mn/DOT 1-94 Reconstruct westbound ramp at CSAH 75 Mn/DOT / Wright County CSAH 75 High school to 1-94 - extend 4 lanes to 1-94 . MnlDOT TH25 Construct frontage road from 1-94 to CR 106 and control access points Mn/DOT / Wright County 1-94/ CR 18 Widening existing structure for pedestrian walkway Mn/DOT TH 241 Reconstruct road from St. Michael to 1-94 including continuous left turn-lane . Source: Wright County Transportation Plan; Minnesota State Transportation Improvement Program (STIP) 1999-2001; Draft State Transportation Improvement Program (STIP) 2000-2002. Anoka County Anoka County, located north of the Twin Cities is comprised of both rural and urban areas. The northern portion of the County is primarily rural, while communities toward the south are urban and considered part of the Metropolitan Urban Service Area. Roadway conditions in Anoka County reflect common highway system congestion in some areas and congestion is projected to become common in others. The County is expected to experience a 34 percent increase in population between 1990 and 2015 based on Metropolitan Council data and current trends; however with the exception of the new TH 10/610 link replacing a portion of existing TH 10, no . major new roadways are planned. Committed projects identified in the Anoka County 2015 Transportation Plan and MnlDOT's State Transportation Improvement Program 1999-2001 (STIP) are identified in the following table: Phase II Northstar Corridor Major Investment Study Draft - No-Build Alternative 3 June 10,1999 - Anoka County Pro yrammed Transportation Improvements for F.Y. 1999-2002 . Implementation Facility or Route Project Description A2enCy MnlDOT / Anoka County TH 10 Traffic signal revision and improvements at Hanson Boulevard ramp Reconstruct and widen CSAH 78 (Hanson Anoka County CSAH 78 Blvd.) from Coon Rapids Blvd. to Robinson Drive Mn/DOT Sunfish Lake Rd. @ Install high type surface BNSF - Ramsey MnlDOT TH 169 Mississippi River to TH 10 10 Anoka - Reconstruct, widen, etc. Anoka County CSAH 14 CSAH 9 to TH 10 widening to 6 lanes, adding signals Anoka County CSAH 11 Addition of left turns lanes at Egret intersection Mn/DOT TH47 Northeast ramp terminal at 1-694 ramp widening and signal revision Mn/DOT TH 610 Proposed ramp from Foley Park-and-Ride to TH 252 Source: Anoka County 2015 Transportation Plan; Anoka County Five Year Highway Improvement Plan for 1999-2003; State Transportation Improvement Program (STIP) 1999-2001; Metropolitan Development Guide. Hennepin County / Metropolitan Area . Congestion in the Twin Cities metropolitan area is expected to increase over the next 25 years as new residents, jobs and households are added to the relatively unchanging number of roadway miles. Few major committed transportation improvements are identified for the metropolitan area south of the TH 10/610 improvements. MnlDOT Metro Division Pro2rammed Transportation Improvements for F.Y.1999-2003 Implementation Agency Facility or Route Project Description Mn/DOT 1-94 At Weaver Lake Rd in Maple Grove - extend ramp Mn/DOT 1-94 Addition of 3fd lane between Weaver Lake Road and Brooklyn Blvd Mn/DOT 1-94/ Weaver Lake Rd Loop/interchang;e revisions Mn/DOT 1-94/ CR 61 Interchange revisions Mn/DOT 1-94/ CR 30 Realig;nment work Source: State Transportation Improvement Program (STIP) 1999-2001; Metropolitan Development Guide; Hennepin County Transportation Systems Plan; Hennepin County Capital Improvement Plan. . 4 - Phase II Northstar Corridor Major Investment Study Draft - No-Build Alternative June 10, 1999 . . . Existing Transit Services, Infrastructure and Facilities Transit service in the study area is provided by Metro Transit in the seven-county Twin Cities metropolitan area, the Metropolitan Transit Commission in portions of the St. Cloud metropolitan area, and county-based transit systems in Anoka, Sherburne, Benton and Stearns Counties. While each area of the corridor has at least limited access to some transit service, no corridor-based operations provide linked, cohesive service in the corridor as a whole. Although there is some overlap and coordination in Anoka County, in general these are separately operated systems providing service to a specific area. St. Cloud Metropolitan Area Transit Services The St. Cloud Metropolitan Transit Commissions (MTC) is a transit authority responsible for providing daily management and operations of the fixed route system and Specialized Service ADA paratransit program in the cities of St. Cloud, Sauk Rapids and Waite Park. The fixed route transit systems operates Monday through Saturday with thirty- and sixty-minute headway schedules. The St. Cloud MTC operates seventeen routes; eleven operate on a timed transfer system out of the Transit Center in downtown St. Cloud Monday through Friday 6:00 AM to 9:45 PM and Saturday's from 7:45 AM to 6:45 PM, and five seasonal routes operate out of St. Cloud State University. The St. Cloud MTC's Specialized Service program provides demand response paratransit services to persons with disabilities and mobility impairments. Other services offered by the St. Cloud MTC include the Senior Rider and Metro Express. The Senior Rider provides subscription curbside service to persons 60 year old and over from their home to primary destinations, on a limited schedule. The Metro Express also provides subscription curbside service and is available to employees working in St. Cloud's Industrial Park West. The St. Cloud MTC also serves as the St. Cloud area's rideshare coordinator providing ride-matching services for commuters. The RiverRider Heartland Express in Sherburne County and Tri-Cap based in St. Cloud also provide transportation services in or to the St. Cloud area. The RiverRider transports individuals from St. Cloud to special workshop sites; Tri-Cap offers limited service to the elderly primarily for grocery trips in the Sartell and St. Cloud MTC service area. Transit Centers / Transfer Points The St. Cloud MTC owns and operates two major transportation facilities: an operations center where principal administrative and vehicle maintenance/vehicle storage functions are conducted, and the MTC Transit Center in downtown St. Cloud which serves as enclosed transfer facility and is staffed with dispatch/customer service personnel. Phase II Northstar Corridor Major Investment Study Draft - No-Build Alternative 5 June 10,1999 Park-and-Ride Facilities . Currently there are two formal park-and-ride facilities located in Stearns County available to commuters. One is located at 1-94 and CSAH 2 in St. Joseph; the other is located at 1-94 and CSAH 10 in Albany. MnlDOT was responsible in part for the creation of these lots and is currently working with the City of St. Cloud, the MTC and the Counties of Benton, Steams and Sherburne to create a formal network of park-and-ride facilities in the region. Commuters in the St. Cloud area are also taking advantage of an informal park-and-ride facility located at 1-94 and CSAH 75 in St. Cloud. Currently no transit connections are available at these locations. Sherburne County Transit Services Sherburne County is primarily rural and agricultural in nature therefore transit services are limited. The RiverRider Heartland Express provides door-to-door service to the general public serving Sherburne County and select communities in Wright County. The service operates on a dial-a-ride basis in addition to flexible semi-fixed service. Sherburne County also provides a volunteer transportation program to eligible residents providing trips to medical appointments within the County. Park and Ride Facilities . Currently there are few park-and-ride facilities available to commuters in Sherburne County. Existing facilities are located at the MnlDOT Traveler Information Center south of St. Cloud along TH 10, a municipal parking lot along TH 10 in the city of Becker and the MnlDOT park- and-ride lot located at TH 169 in Elk River. Transit connections at these facilities are not available at this time, however Sherburne County is working with MnlDOT, Counties, Cities and agencies located along the THIO and 1-94 corridors to create a formal network of park-and-ride facilities in the region. It is anticipated that several facilities will be located in Sherburne County. Wright County Transit Services Wright County is primarily rural although development pressures resulting from the close proximity to the Twin Cities have influenced growth. Population, household and employment growth is highest in the northern and eastern parts of the County. Interstate 94, a major throughway to the Twin Cities, runs along the far north portion of the County, east into Hennepin County. . Phase II Northstar Corridor Major Investment Study Draft - No-Build Alternative 6 June 10, 1999 . . . Transit services in the County are limited. The Monticello Heartland Express provides dial-a- ride service within the City of Monticello Monday through Friday from approximately 8:00 AM until 5:00 PM. The RiverRider Heartland Express operates in specific communities in Wright County. Along the 1-94 corridor, the communities of Otsego and St Michael are served weekdays on a limited schedule to alternating destinations; the City of Buffalo is served daily. Park and Ride Facilities Existing park-and-ride facilities in Wright County include facilities in Monticello and Albertville. The Monticello facility located at 1-94ffH 25 accommodates 160 vehicles and is in high demand. The facility in Albertville located at 1-94/CSAH 19 consists of 38 spaces and is unable to meet the current demand. Anoka County Transit Services Transit services within Anoka County focus primarily on radial, commuter trips oriented to/from downtown Minneapolis. Regularly scheduled, fixed route service is provided by the Anoka County Traveler, Metro Transit and North Suburban Lines. Metro Transit provides both local and express service in the TH 10/47 corridor between downtown Minneapolis, the Northtown Transit Hub and Anoka. North Suburban Lines offers express service to St. Paul. The majority of fixed route service is concentrated in the southern portion of the County and is provided by Metro Transit. The Anoka County Traveler operates three local fixed routes that provide hourly timed transfer options to Metro Transit routes at the Northtown Transit Hub. The fixed routes operate in the Cities of Anoka, Blaine and Coon Rapids, Monday through Friday between approximately 6:00 AM and 7:00 PM. The Traveler also operates a countywide dial-a-ride service available to the general public seven days a week from 5:00 AM to 11:00 PM. Transfers are coordinated to/from the dial-a-ride to Traveler and Metro Transit fixed routes. Metro Mobility also offers ADA paratransit service in the southern portion of Anoka County and coordinates transfers with the Traveler allowing passengers unable to used fixed route to travel to the metropolitan area. Transit services in the northern portion of the County are limited primarily due to the location of the Metropolitan Transit Taxing District boundaries. Fixed route service is not available in these areas; however limited dial-a-ride service is provided by the Anoka County Traveler. Transit Centers / Transfer Points The Northtown Transit Hub is the main transit center in Anoka County. The hub offers shelter and consists of two islands, one serving regular, local fixed route and dial-a-ride service, and the other serving primarily express routes to downtown Minneapolis. The hub is designed to accommodate full-sized and articulated buses. Downtown Anoka also serves as a transfer point along the TH 10/47 corridor at 3rd Avenue and Main Street. Phase II Northstar Corridor Major Investment Study Draft - No-Build Alternative 7 June 10,1999 A new transit hub in Columbia Heights has recently been approved at the southeast corner of 41 sl . Street and Central Avenue (TH 65). The project is a collaborative effort between Anoka County and Metro Transit and is expected to be complete by the end of 1999. The final design is still in progress however the facility is expected to consist of four off-street and two on-street bus stalls. Park-and-Ride Facilities Metro Transit provides park-and-ride facilities in the TH 10/47 corridor in Anoka County at the following locations: . Anoka - TH 10/169 . Anoka - Church Street / Forest Avenue . Anoka - 7th Avenue / Garfield Street . Coon Rapids - Riverdale Cub Foods - 12800 Round Lake Boulevard . Coon Rapids - TH 10 / Hanson Boulevard . Coon Rapids - Zilla Street / 98th Lane NW . Coon Rapids - Hanson Boulevard / 1 05th Avenue NW . Coon Rapids - Hanson Boulevard at 111 th Avenue NW . Coon Rapids - Hanson Boulevard / Northdale Boulevard . Coon Rapids - Crooked Lake Boulevard / Coon Rapids Boulevard . Coon Rapids - Foley Park and Ride - Adjacent to TH 610 and Foley Boulevard . Fridley - 6180 Highway 65 NE . Fridley - Holiday Village Shopping Center - 250 57th Avenue NE . Currently, the park-and-ride facility in Anoka at ih Avenue and Garfield Street is full. The lot has a capacity of 80 vehicles and approximately 110 vehicles are attempting to use the facility on a daily basis. An expansion of the lot has been discussed however no plans have been approved at this time. The Northtown Transit Hub also serves as a park-and-ride facility with a total capacity of 380 vehicles. On average, approximately 175 vehicles utilize the lot, however due to construction at the Foley park-and-ride facility the lot is currently at capacity. The Foley Park-and-Ride in Coon Rapids has been extremely successful and is currently undergoing expansion. The existing facility is designed to accommodate 600 vehicles; a new ramp is being constructed to increase capacity to over 1,200 spaces. The project is expected to be complete by November 1999. . Phase II Northstar Corridor Major Investment Study Draft - No-Build Alternative 8 June 10, 1999 . Hennepin County / Metropolitan Area Transit Services Maple Grove Transit and Metro Transit are the primary transit providers along the 1-94 corridor in Hennepin County. Maple Grove Transit provides rush hour express service between Maple Grove and downtown Minneapolis in addition to dial-a-ride service serving the City of Maple Grove. Four express routes operate Monday through Friday using 19 buses. The dial-a-ride service utilizes two vans and operates weekdays from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m; one van operates from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM on Saturdays. The service area is primarily within the City boundaries, however exceptions are made to specific destinations. Metro Transit also provides express and local service to downtown Minneapolis serving the 1-94 corridor; however north of Brooklyn Center service is limited. Metro Transit operates express service between Champlin/Anoka and downtown Minneapolis via West River RoadffH 252 and 1-94. Travel between suburbs in the northern portion of the metro such as Coon Rapids to Brooklyn Park, requires a transfer in downtown Minneapolis and results in extended travel times. East/west service is a necessary component missing from the existing transit system network in the metropolitan area. Transit Centers / Transfer Points . Transit centers and transfer points south of Brooklyn Center along the 1-94 corridor exist only in the downtown Minneapolis area. The 5th Street Transit Station and 7th Street Garage serve as primary transfer locations in the downtown area; both provide ramp parking enabling customers to park their vehicle and catch a bus to other downtown areas. Additional Metro Transit facilities located downtown include a Transit Store, Customer Relations and Lost and Found Center and two terminals from which vehicles begin/end their routes. Park-and-Ride Facilities Park-and-ride facilities in the north metro area and west of the Mississippi River along the 1-94 corridor are also important to identify to move toward a more connected regional transit system. Planning efforts should be geared toward developing ways to tie into these existing resources. These existing facilities include the following: . . Rogers - TH 101/1-94 . Maple Grove - Hemlock / West Eagle Lake Road . Maple Grove - South of Weaver Lake Road / Vinewood . Maple Grove - Bass Lake Road / Fish Lake Road . Maple Grove - Weaver Lake Road / Fish Lake Road . Brooklyn Center - Zane / 69th A venue . Brooklyn Center - Brooklyn Boulevard / 65th Avenue . Brooklyn Park - TH 252 / 73rd A venue (East of TH 252) . Brooklyn Park - TH 252/ 73rd Avenue (West of TH 252) Phase II Northstar Corridor Major Investment Study Draft - No-Build Alternative 9 June 10, 1999 Maple Grove Transit conducts license plate surveys at all park-and-ride lots to determine the city . where commuters live. The most recent survey revealed that 25 percent of all commuters at these lots had cars registered from other cities, including the following from non-metro areas: Albertville, St. Michael, Rogers, Monticello, Elk River, Big Lake, Rockford, Buffalo, Annandale, Sauk Rapids, Zimmerman, and St. Cloud. MGTS also has riders from the following metro cities: Champlin, Dayton, Cocoran, Ramsey, Otsego, Coon Rapids, Anoka, Plymouth, Osseo and Brooklyn Park. The following park-and-ride facilities are located in the City of Champlin, across the Mississippi River from Anoka County and the City of Anoka. These facilities are in relatively close proximity to the TH 10 corridor: . Champlin - Hayden Lake Road / West River Road . Champlin - 117th Avenue North / West River Road . Champlin - Dayton / Cartway Road . Champlin - Dayton / French Lake Road The maps on the following pages illustrate the existing transit services and committed roadway improvements in the St. Cloud, Anoka County and Twin Cities metropolitan area along the TH 10/47 and 1-94 corridors. Transit services in Sherburne County are limited to dial-a-ride services therefore are not illustrated in map format. . . Phase II Northstar Corridor Major Investment Study Draft - No-Build Alternative 10 June 10, 1999 . i t:l \ "'I> 0 i CD .\0 - \0 tv \0 ~ \0 if ~~~~~~~~<<~ .. ..x.e~ f' j ~ i ~ f f ! f ~ f i ff ~ fill i 5. Q (j ~ ~ ~ ~ 0. 8 s- ~. 0. s. ~ ~ - 00 P' P' 0. eo!:' 0Cl n~=o ~ <: S ~ ~ CD _CD!:, a~ct- CD .<"'1- _. _. ~ P' eo f/.l [~ '<: --- !:' f/.l ~ (j ~ - CD ~ CD s. ~ ~S~g~CD 0Cl g. g~~eo~f/.l ~ ct ::;,.. f/.l o~ f/.l _. f/.l CD - ~ ~ ~ - a ..., 0 CD ~ ~ a - f/.l CD CD f/.l a a CD ...... D~ I- I I I ~ 1. 'OJ 1::0 ~.~ I ~ j . r:/) ~ . Z(j 9 ~ OJ 0 ~ ~ 0..0- > ~~ ~ (D <' ~ ~ 0 ""1~ ~ 0 _. ~ ~ ~. _. ~ ~~ ~ ~ > ~ (D ~ "'I> 0 '-< 0 e v. CD ~\O ..... \0 \0 \0 .... 'OJ v. ~::o ~ i~ if ~ I z o I t:d !6" gO s~ ~~ ~. an ~o ~ ~ ~. =:s ~q ~ ~ ~ ~~~~~~~~<<~~. .x.e~ ~ ~ i ~ f ~ f f ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ii~ 0: ~ q 0" cr ~ 0 0 ~ ~ ~ as ::to g "0 n as g ~. ~ "0 s:: 0 n ~ ~ g ~ Q.. g p;- f!1. Q.. ~. (") (1) Po) - >-t 0 >-t >-t ~ ~ i=l ~ (") (1)...... ...... ~o ~ ~Q.. ~ >-t!:SO < = ~ ~ (1) ......(1) o~(t- (1) q!:S ..... ..... >-t ~ e. en ~ >-t --...... i=l en:::::, n ~ ...... (1) ~ (1) S' P- >-t ~ 0 >:: i=l (Jq = a ~ >-t (") "0 (1) ~ 0'" =en~e.aen '< (t ::;,.. en >-t en (1) ::;,.. 0 en >:: >-t a >-t "00(1) 0 >-t = = (1) - (t en (1) en a a (1) 8~ .a I I -I "Tj ~. N ~ .~ .. .. / :::a.IrV .11 ~1<~ t~7 r-/ ~ r /' ~iX; ~V ~ J ...,r- 1 \ ;; ~ 11''' .. ~. 7X..."i x.> , V/~ ..) ~... ~ .)..~'l"'x.. ~ ~~.~ [' ~/ i(;\.i ... ,.1 ~,... ...." ~~~~~~~~~<~~. .x.e~ ~ ~ Q ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ Q ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~~~~ i'i: !f ~ Q ~ ~ g g ~ ~ 5; ~ "': g '" ~ ~ ~ ~ [ 1 s. Q n ~ ~ ~ ~ Q.~. ~ fa. Q. ea' ~ ~ '"rj ~ 0 Os ~ ~ Q. ~. ~ ~ Q ~ a sa ~_. <: tf,ltf,l('ll ~- ~O~('Il ('Il ~ ::;.. ::;.':: ' ~~ ~""'I n ~ - ('Il ~ . S' ~ (1) a~~g~('Il (JQ g.. w =tf,l~e.atf,l ~ ct ::;.. tf,l 0""'1 tf,l ..... tf,l ('Il ...... = ~ a ct g a a ...... tf,l ('Il ('Il tf,l a a ('Il . , r\ ~) ~/~ ) ~ . I ( ,:) ~ . , ~~ ,I ,/ I J ./ -- , , r , r ~ '"'0 \ '[ ~ \ I I -= ~-' ~-\ ~. I 1 9:'" '5' I~ t, ~ t ) I." .... .. i -a .-.. ,..~ . (1)' '"" -a ,:),:. v':-, f - __v : Y I \ ,r 1"0 ..... o ~ . till C, " .... 'c 'r:: ...;. tf.l tIl . ' z ~ ) .~ / ~1 / Q ./ tIi -4 S" r - t:::C a o s: ::s '"'0 * I ~ I ~, ___f<- ~ ~ ~ ;-:~ "~ '. ~- '- ~ \ ~'1 /v V. ~~ I~~ /... ~ A r ~\ """ ioo....... \ _ ~ ';j t-3 7''''11 t-3 /I l'! t-3 ....~~ .~ .. .~/ 8; (1) ;! ~4 " . ,,,[.., it x: ~~ ..~~ ......~.....~:::~ ~- ~ ~~ .',' '.., -a ....J.."o _.~~ t-3 . J!J d' "Ot-3 Ar ?\~.;t '. , I ~ ~ ::c: . _. Po .... ~ ~I~l/ ,...~'ll D/ II ./ "I \ ~". V~ ~ J, V """~ l~~ ~' - . { '" ~ '1'-'-1 e: ~ go ~ (1) - (") o ::s ~ I ..,,, .. 0 \~ . ( ... fit /' ~ r,) <: - (1) "'I> 0 g - G .v::> - v::> v::> v::> ~ 'OJ 1;.0 i~ w ~ ~ j G .. I J ....... - --- r- '" -a D~ III I I -I ..... ~ ~ ~. z ~ ~n s:: ~. 1-'0 ~ - ~. Q.. (t) ~ f:I) ~ ~ a ~ 1-'0 (t) (6 ~ ~ 0 ~~ 1-'0 0 ~t=: ..4 1-'0 ~ ~ f'\~ ~ S ~ >- ~ (t) ~ ~ . DRAFT Northstar Corridor Major Investment Study Transportation Systems Management Alternative Prepared For Northstar Corridor Development Authority . JtiIlOIl'lJlBTAB III1RRIDOR Prepared By BRW, Inc. 700 Third Street South Minneapolis, MN 55415 . June 24,1999 . 1.1.2. TRANSPORTA TION SYSTEM MANAGEMENT (TSM) ALTERNATIVE A second alternative to be considered when selecting the Locally Preferred Transportation Investment Strategy (LPTIS) is the refinement of transportation management/bus improvements referred to as the Transportation System Management (TSM) Alternative. The TSM Alternative provides a framework for strategies that provide lower cost improvement of the existing transportation network and includes infrastructure improvements that will benefit transit operations along with improvements in transit service coverage, span and connectivity; and minor roadway improvements. Based on the initial work in Phase I and recent meetings with representatives from Metro Transit, Anoka County Transit, St. Cloud Metropolitan Transit Commission (MTC), MnlDOT District 3, and the RiverRider Service, a number of strategies have been identified as part of the TSM Alternative. These strategies are discussed in the following sections. Bus Operations Strategies Bus operations strategies address connectIvIty within the corridor and offer transportation alternatives that build upon existing transit services and facilities. Bus operations strategies include transit service enhancements, infrastructure improvements, additional park-and-ride lots and the expansion of existing park-and-ride and transit facilities. . As part of the planning process for developing the TSM Alternative, transit providers within the corridor met to identify ways to better integrate bus services throughout the corridor. As a result, the following service parameters were developed: · Express bus service would operate between Rice and downtown Minneapolis on a frequency similar to the schedule identified in the Commuter Rail Feasibility Study, also known as service Concept B. · Park-and-ride facilities would be situated at locations previously identified as potential station sites along the corridor with some location modifications. · A variety of feeder bus services would provide local/neighborhood service to park-and-ride facilities enabling passengers to transfer to/from express routes. The express bus service concept developed under this TSM Alternative embraces many of the characteristics of commuter rail, with the exception that the service is provided by buses. One advantage with bus transportation is that it allows for greater flexibility in scheduling, allocating resources and reacting to demand. For planning purposes, service frequency and capacity information previously defined in the Commuter Rail Feasibility Study was used as a maximum level of service under this alternative. The capacity of each commuter train (three cars) is equivalent to eight full-size buses; therefore the number of buses necessary to match this level of service will be significantly higher in most . areas of the corridor. However, it is possible that ridership levels may be less than what was 1 Phase II Northstar Corridor Major Investment Study Draft - TSM Alternative June 24, 1999 identified under the commuter rail scenario, and the actual number of vehicles necessary to . provide express service would then be based on new anticipated demand. The TSM Alternative also provides a potential long-term strategy under which bus service would gradually be replaced with commuter rail service. Bus operations strategies are described in greater detail in the following sections. Service Enhancements Express Bus Service Express bus service is designed to serve the entire corridor between Rice and the Twin Cities. Express buses would stop at park-and-ride facilities located along the corridor picking up and/or dropping off passengers until reaching the Foley Park-and-Ride in Coon Rapids. Once in the Twin Cities area, passengers would have the option to transfer to a local route or continue non- stop to downtown Minneapolis. Service would operate similar to the previously identified proposed commuter rail schedule with buses departing from Rice/St. Cloud, Elk River and Anoka/Ramsey. Figure 1 on the following page illustrates a sample schedule and includes reverse commute service. As an example, express routes would depart from Rice/St. Cloud three times each weekday morning between approximately 5:40 AM - 6:30 AM. Additional southbound service from this area would include a late morning trip around 11:15 AM, and two late afternoon trips between 3:40 PM and . 5:00 PM. Vehicles would also depart from Elk River and Anoka/Ramsey traveling southbound as depicted in Figure 1. Express bus service would not follow the TH 10/47 corridor south of the Foley Park-and-Ride facility. Instead, buses would utilize bus shoulder lanes along TH 610/252 connecting with 1-94 to downtown Minneapolis allowing for faster travel time. A park-and-ride would still be needed at the location of Starlite and 61 sl Avenue in Fridley, but is included as a separate express service to downtown. New Routes Feeder service consIstmg of local fixed routes, dial-a-ride and shuttles would transport passengers to/from park-and-ride facilities to meet the commuter express bus routes. The St. Cloud Metropolitan Transit Commission (MTC) would provide service in the St. Cloud metropolitan area utilizing full-size buses. The park-and-ride facility in St. Cloud would be located outside the existing fixed route network, therefore new routes would be added to provide feeder service to the new facility. . 2 June 24, 1999 Phase II Northstar Corridor Major Investment Study Draft - TSM Alternative . . .- ~ ::l 00 ti: ~ ~ .... .... "" ~ rJ"l rI} = = rI} rI} ~ "" ~..; ~~ ~ .~ ..::: ......~ ~ ~ 't:l"::: .::c ~ ~ Q ~ ~ ~~ Q "" E: 000 :g~ "" ::: "" ~ o ~ u~ "" l.. ~ ~ ~ ::: ~:.:::: ..c..::: ~ ~ 5~ z* ::;; Q. ~ .;,: ::;; Q. o '" r..: ::;; Q. 8 .;,: ::;; Q. 8 r..: ::;; Q. 8. ::;; -< s: ::;; -< ... '" r..: ::;; -< s: -0 ::;; -< o '" 0; ::;; -< o ... .;.; ::;; -< '" ... r..: <'">0'1 0'1 0'1 -. ....i '" ~ :::: ...., ::;; Q. ~ '" ::;; Q. o '" -0 ::;; Q. s: -0 ::;; Q. 8 -0 ::;; Q. ~ .;.; ::;; Q. o '" .;.; f s: .;.; ::;; Q. ~ .;,: ::;; Q. s: ::;; Q. 8. ::;; -< o '" 00 ::;; -< 8 00 ::;; -< o ... r..: ::;; -< o '" r..: ::;; -< ~ r..: ;>-., '"0 ::s ci5 i: 0) 5 '" 0) > .s ... o "t;j' ~ ::;; -< 8 r..: ::;; -< ~ -0 ... o '"0 "S "~ 8 'i;j ... E ~~ ]<( 'g~ ~~ ~~ '" '" /fo New/expanded routes in the Cities of Clear Lake, Becker, Big Lake, and Elk River would be . provided by the RiverRider Heartland Express or Tri-Cap, providing service to the commuter express bus routes. These services would operate as a combination door-to-door, flex-route and shuttle service utilizing small buses serving park-and-ride lots in each community. Anoka County Transit would serve communities in Anoka County. Utilizing a combination of dial-a-ride, fixed route and flex-route services, transfers would be provided to express routes at park-and-ride lots and other transfer locations throughout the system. New routes and/or the expansion of existing routes would be necessary to provide adequate levels of service, and would be coordinated as much as possible with Metro Transit and other regional transit providers. A new east/west connection between TH 252/66th Avenue and Brookdale Shopping Center in Brooklyn Center would be provided by Metro Transit. Currently, east/west travel in the north metropolitan area requires individuals to travel to downtown Minneapolis and transfer buses to complete their trip; a new east/west route would reduce travel time and increase mobility options for passengers. Initially the route would operate during peak hours only. Metro Transit currently provides express service to/from the Foley Park-and-Ride to downtown Minneapolis. Construction has begun to add a ramp for additional parking at the Foley Park- and-Ride facility and Metro Transit plans to add service upon completion of the construction. It is expected that additional express routes would be needed to accommodate demand at the maximum level of service. Expanded Service Area . Existing service area boundaries extend throughout the corridor to serve the proposed service area under the bus operations strategy with the exception of the City of Rice. Service boundaries in the St. Cloud metropolitan area would be extended to include Rice. It may also be advantageous to expand service boundaries in other areas and outlying communities. Service boundaries in Anoka County, particularly in the Cities of Ramsey and Andover, would be extended to allow for feeder service to/from these communities. Currently these communities are outside the Metropolitan Transit Taxing District and do not receive fixed route service. With the addition of a park-and-ride facility in Anoka/Ramsey it is expected that demand will warrant new service to these areas. Expanded Hours of Service Additional service hours would be required to provide service under the express/feeder bus operations strategy. The table on the following page estimates the number additional vehicles and service hours necessary to provide service based on the maximum level of service: . Phase II Northstar Corridor Major Investment Study Draft - TSM Alternative 4 June 24, 1999 . Additional Service Hours and Vehicles T e of Service Feeder Bus Service St. Cloud Metro olitan Area Sherburne Count Anoka Count Twin Cities Ex ress Service St. Cloud Metro olitan Area -Twin Cities Vehicles 1 7 6 20 6 42 36 46 32 187 Upgraded Vehicles Varying types and sizes of vehicles would be used to provide express/feeder bus service under the bus operations strategy. Vehicles would range in size from full-size motor coaches to small buses; all vehicles would be fully accessible. The following is a brief description of the type of vehicle proposed for each type of service: Service Area Service T Vehicle T e Vehicle Ca Rice to Minnea olis Ex ress Motor Coach 50 St. Cloud Metro olitan Area Feeder Transit Bus 45 . Clearwater to Elk River Feeder Small BusNan 8-10 Anoka/Ramsey to Feeder Small / Mid Size Bus 8-10 / 18-20 Fole Park-and-Ride Foley Park-and-Ride to Express Transit Bus 45 Minnea olis . Infrastructure Improvements Shoulder Use bv Buses Bus-only shoulder lanes enable vehicles to drive in the shoulder bypassing regular traffic and avoiding delays. As a component of the express bus service strategy, designated bus-only shoulder lanes would be implemented along the corridor serving both directions in the following areas: · TH 10 - North of East St. Germain in St. Cloud to park-and-ride facility located in southeast St. Cloud (St. Cloud Visitor Information Center). · TH 10 - Sherburne County Courthouse in Elk River to Foley Boulevard in Coon Rapids. · TH 610 - Proposed ramp from the Foley Park-and-Ride facility to TH252 (to connect with existing bus shoulder lanes). Phase II Northstar Corridor Major Investment Study Draft - TSM Alternative 5 June 24,1999 Currently, these areas are highly congested during peak hours causing significant delays in travel . time. Much of the identified roadway is conducive to the addition of shoulder lanes; however, TH 10 in downtown Elk River may require further study due to limited right-of-way for extending the shoulder. Park-and-Ride Lot Enhancements Park-and-ride facilities located along the corridor would serve as mini transit hubs enabling buses to safely pick up and drop off passengers. Passengers would benefit from amenities at these facilities such as heated shelter, restrooms, public telephones, etc. Existing park-and-ride facilities currently served by transit services in the corridor include the Foley Park-and-Ride lot. Construction to add a ramp for additional parking is currently underway and additional express service is planned for the facility. Traffic Signal Preemption Traffic signal preemption is a technology that can help buses maintain schedules and improve route speeds. An emitter is located on the vehicle and when activated sends a signal to extend a green light or change a red light to green as the late bus nears the intersection. Along the TH 10 corridor, this type of technology would complement the bus-only shoulder lanes resulting in fewer traffic delays. Traffic signal preemption would be utilized at all intersections along roadway segments identified for bus-only shoulder lane implementation. . Flyover ramps (a ramp directly connecting a highway with a park-and-ride facility that allows a bus to bypass an intersection) were considered as a possibility for improving safety near park- and-ride lots particularly in Elk River. Flyover ramps were not included as part of the alternatives due to cost and recommendation of signal preemption. Additional signal improvements may be necessary at various intersections along the corridor depending on travel direction and crossing traffic on TH 10. Transit Hubsrrransit Centers Transit hubs and park-and-ride lots would essentially be designed as one facility. Passengers would have the choice of driving to the facility and leaving their vehicle at the park-and-ride lot, or getting to the facility by way of feeder bus service, to catch express routes to Minneapolis or to St. Cloud/Rice for reverse commute trips. Each facility would be designed to accommodate express/local transit vehicles in terms of size and ingress/egress needs at each location. Transit Centers typically offer informational services, sell bus passes and provide other customer service functions. Facilities of this type would be implemented in highly populated areas with heavy transit usage such as downtown Minneapolis and the Foley Park-and-Ride in Coon Rapids. . Phase II Northstar Corridor Major Investment Study Draft - TSM Alternative 6 June 24, 1999 . . . Park-and-Ride Lots New Park-and-Ride Locations The proposed express bus service would serve eight park-and-ride facilities along the corridor. The assumed locations of the park-and-ride lots correspond to the preliminary commuter rail station locations, which are identified below. Parking at the lots is assumed to be free of charge and below maximum capacity. . Rice - North of Main Street at BNSF . St. Cloud - TH 10 (2 miles south of St. Cloud) - St. Cloud Visitor Information Center . Clear Lake - TH 10 and 70th Street . Becker - TH 10 and Hancock . Big Lake - TH 25 and Eagle Lake Road . Elk River - TH 10 and Jackson Street . AnokaJRamsey near the Anoka-Hennepin Technical College . Coon Rapids - Foley Boulevard and Coon Rapids Boulevard . Fridley - Starlite and 61st Avenue The Fridley park-and-ride lot would be served as a separate facility from the Northstar Corridor express service, which would utilize TH 610/252 to 1-94 from the Foley Park-and-Ride. Express service from the Fridley park-and-ride would utilize TH 47 (University Avenue) to downtown Minneapolis. Enhancements at Existing Park & Ride Lots Park-and-ride lot design criteria are based on a number of factors including, ease of access in and out of the facility, parking demand, traffic congestion and security issues. Flexibility in design for possible conversion to an alternate mode environment is necessary. Basic amenities for park and ride lots include ample lighting, heat and telephone access. Additional strategies for park- and-ride facility enhancements include: · Safe linkages for bicycles and pedestrians to the park-and-ride lots, such as improved sidewalks and recreational trails. . Increased security, including video surveillance, emergency pull box and secured bike storage. . Communication enhancements using ITS technology such as variable signs displaying wait- time and major delays. Phase II Northstar Corridor Major Investment Study Draft - TSM Alternative 7 June 24, 1999 Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) . Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) is an approach taken by many transportation systems to use the latest technology for building better transportation systems. Information technologies and advances in electronics are revolutionizing many aspects of modem society and transportation is no exception. Throughout Minnesota a number of ITS initiatives have been developed through MnlDOT's Guidestar program which is one of the nation's leaders in using ITS to build a better transportation system. In the Northstar Corridor current ITS initiatives range from interactive kiosks at the Highway 10 Travel Information Center in St. Cloud to the Twin Cities' Traffic Management and Traveler Information Systems operated by MnlDOT. Two ITS initiatives are currently underway. The first ITS initiative is the Connecting Minnesota Project which is a statewide initiative that is laying fiber-optic cable along 900 freeway miles that will result in a high-speed/high-capacity telecommunications network. The Connecting Minnesota Project is a public/private collaboration involving MnlDOT and will provide a communications backbone for many ITS initiatives. Construction of the network began in the Fall of 1999 along Interstate 94, between Moorhead and St. Cloud. The entire network is expected to be completed by mid - 2001. In the Northstar Corridor, fiber optic will be laid along Highway 10 from Rice to Highway 25 at Big Lake, then proceed south to Interstate 94. The second ITS initiative underway in the Northstar Corridor is the development of a permanent facility that will involve multiple agencies for the purpose of coordinating transportation management and distributing traveler information. This is part of a Mn/DOT program to develop Transportation Operations Centers (TOe's) throughout the State. In February, 1998, Mn/DOT completed the St. Cloud Transportation Operations Center Scoping Study that outlined a conceptual framework for implementing selected ITS systems in the St. Cloud area, (including Highway 10/47 to Hennepin County). . Following are proposed ITS initiatives to be included as part of the TSM Alternative for the Northstar Corridor. Traveler Information Providing up-to-the minute and accurate information to travelers is an important element of any ITS program. For the TSM Alternative the following elements have been proposed for the Northstar Corridor: . Phase II Northstar Corridor Major Investment Study Draft - TSM Alternative 8 June 24, 1999 . . . Highway Advisorv Radio Highway Advisory Radio (HAR) provides motorists with up-to-the minute information on travel and road conditions. HAR is generally located to provide enough advance notice for travelers to make appropriate decisions regarding their routes based on current information. For the Northstar Corridor, seven (7) locations are proposed as follows: · On Highway 10, approximately 2.5 mile radius from Highway 15 (St. Cloud - North) · On Highway 10, approximately 2.5 mile radius from Highway 23 (St. Cloud) . On Highway 10, approximately 2.5 mile radius from Highway 24 (Clear Lake) · On Highway 10, approximately 2.5 mile radius from Highway 25 (Big Lake) . On Highway 10, approximately 2.5 mile radius from Highway 101 (Elk River) . On Highway 10, approximately 2.5 mile radius from Highway 169 (Anoka) · On Highway 10, approximately 2.5 mile radius from Interchange of Highways 252/47 (Coon Rapids) Highway Advisory Radio is available in areas south of the above proposed locations. Information via the Internet This initiative allows travelers to gather up-to-the minute information by using their computers to access the Internet either at home, work or on the road. Types of information that can be provided include location and degree of congestion, incident location, construction/maintenance areas and road closure information. In addition, links to other useful Internet sites can be provided to the user. Interactive Kiosks Similar to information via the Internet, kiosks can be placed throughout the Northstar Corridor and allow travelers to stop and get up-to-the minute information on the conditions that lie ahead. In addition to the information described in the Internet section, current weather information would also be considered for the interactive kiosks. Two interactive kiosks are proposed for installation at rest areas along Highway 10 as follows: · On Highway 10....... South of 10 & West of Elk River · On Highway 10 ...... North of 10 & West of Big Lake Phase II Northstar Corridor Major Investment Study Draft - TSM Alternative 9 June 24, 1999 Changeable Message Signs . Permanent signs that display a wide variety of messages to motorists are proposed for strategic locations throughout the Northstar Corridor. Locations of changeable message signs are important and should be positioned to allow travelers to select alternate routes in the event of trouble ahead. A total of eleven (11) changeable message signs are proposed for the Northstar Corridor as follows: · On Highway 10 westbound - east of County Road 9 (Coon Rapids) . On Highway 10 westbound - east of Highway 169/47 (Anoka) · On Highway 10/169 westbound - east of Highway 101 (Elk River) . On Highway 10 westbound - east of Highway 23 (St. Cloud) · On Highway 10 southbound - north of Highway 15 (St. Cloud - North) . On Highway 10 eastbound - west of Highway 23 (St. Cloud) . On Highway 10 eastbound - west of Highway 24 (Clear Lake) · On Highway 10 eastbound - west of Highway 25 (Big Lake) . On Highway 10 eastbound - west of Highway 101 (Elk River) . On Highway 10/169 eastbound - west of Highway 169 (Anoka) . On Highway 10 eastbound - west of Highway 252/47 (Coon Rapids) South of the proposed areas above along 1-94, changeable message signs are already available. Automated Telephone Service . MnlDOT provides a 24-hour, statewide winter road condition call-in service. Under this strategy, the toll free call-in service is proposed for expansion and promotion as follows: · Provide up-to-the minute information on travel conditions in the Northstar Corridor year- round. · Market and promote the service throughout the Northstar Corridor. Incident Management Improving the detection, verification, response and clearing of incidents are significant steps towards reducing congestion and improving safety. Generally, these ITS initiatives allow transportation managers to monitor and record current traffic conditions, that in turn can be used as the basis for up-to-the minute information on travel conditions in the Northstar Corridor. A Transportation Operations Center (TOC) plays a critical role in management of incidents as it serves as the central point for collecting, verifying and distributing up-to-the minute information. As noted earlier, MnlDOT is planning for a TOC in the St. Cloud area that will cover Highway 10 to Hennepin County. MnlDOT's Traffic Management Center in the Twin Cities serves a similar role and covers the Northstar Corridor up to the Anoka/Sherburne County border. These two centers will serve as the focal point for collecting, verifying and distributing up-to-the . Phase II Northstar Corridor Major Investment Study Draft - TSM Alternative 10 June 24, 1999 . . . minute information for the Northstar Corridor. Additional initiatives proposed under the Incident Management Strategy include: Vehicle Detection Automated sensors can be used to detect the presence and speed of vehicles. Information can be accumulated over a specific time period (e.g. 20-seconds to I-minute) and processed based on inputs from several detectors. The information that results can be used to help transportation managers identify when and where congestion occurs. This information then allows managers to identify potential incidents and take immediate corrective action. The following areas are recommended for installation of vehicle detection: . Approximate 20 mile stretch on Highway 10/169 between Elk River & Coon Rapids. . Approximate 4 mile stretch on Highway 47 between Highway 65 (Central Avenue) & 37th Avenue NE. . Approximate 4 mile stretch on Highway 10 between Minnesota Boulevard (South of Reformatory) and north of Highway 15/10 Interchange. Closed Circuit Television System (CCTV) In addition to detecting the speed and presence of vehicles, a system of cameras are proposed to be installed at strategic locations throughout the corridor. These locations will be closely tied to the vehicle detection sites noted earlier and will play a critical role in verifying incidents and improving response times. One camera can generally cover a 1 - 1 Y2 mile segment of roadway. Cameras are recommended for installation along the following segments: · Approximate 20 mile stretch on Highway 10/169 between Elk River & Coon Rapids. . Approximate 4 mile stretch on Highway 47 between Highway 65 (Central Avenue) & 37th Avenue NE. . Approximate 4 mile stretch on Highway 10 between Minnesota Boulevard (South of Reformatory) and north of Highway 15/10 Interchange. Transit Management Systems There are a number of ways technology can improve the delivery of public transit services. The potential initiatives discussed under this strategy focus on ways to improve the operations and management of public transit services in the corridor and techniques for providing up-to-the minute information to passengers. Phase II Northstar Corridor Major Investment Study Draft - TSM Alternative 11 June 24, 1999 ITS initiatives proposed under the Transit Management Systems strategy include the following: . Advanced Vehicle Location Advanced vehicle location (A VL) systems automatically track the location of a vehicle and report the vehicle's location back to a central point (e.g. dispatch center). A VL systems generally used global positioning systems (GPS) technology and allow transit managers to know the exact location of their vehicles at all times. This information is used to monitor how closely a bus is running to its schedule and helps transit managers make immediate changes to get buses back on schedule. The information provided by A VL systems can also be used to provide up-to-the minute information to passengers waiting at bus stops and to other drivers who have passengers making transfer connections. This strategy would include the installation of monitors and/or variable message sings at each transit hub in the Northstar Corridor. A VL systems have also been used in conjunction with silent alarms on buses - when a driver is in need of emergency assistance, the A VL system will report the location of a bus if the driver is unable to report it directly to the dispatcher. Also as part of this initiative, it is proposed that the information generated by the different transit providers using A VL systems in the Northstar Corridor be made available to the Transportation Operations Center in St. Cloud and the Traffic Management Center in the Twin Cities. As noted in the Incident Management strategy, it is proposed that these two centers serve as the focal point for collecting, verifying and distributing up-to-the minute information for the Northstar Corridor. By providing this information to these two centers, up-to-the minute information on the status of transit vehicles throughout the Northstar Corridor will be available. . Traffic Signal Preemption Traffic signals in both the St. Cloud and Twin Cities metropolitan areas are equipped with signal preemption systems. Generally, these systems are comprised of automated signal controls that are activated by authorized vehicles. As an authorized vehicle approaches an intersection with a traffic signal preemption system, the vehicle sends a message to the signal that either turns the traffic light green or extends the green light until the vehicle has cleared the intersection. After the vehicle has cleared the intersection, the traffic signal returns to its regular cycle. Currently, only police, fire and ambulances are authorized to use the signal preemption systems. In several cities across the country, public transit buses are equipped with sensors and are authorized to alter traffic signals to remain on schedule. As proposed under this ITS initiative, public transit buses in the Twin Cities and St. -Cloud metropolitan areas would be equipped with sensors that activate traffic signals to keep buses on schedule. Mobile Data Terminals All the public transit providers in the Northstar Corridor use some form of a voice communications system (e.g. radio, cellular telephone) that links drivers and dispatchers. Under this ITS initiative, mobile data terminals (MDTs) will be installed in transit vehicles throughout . Phase II Northstar Corridor Major Investment Study Draft - TSM Alternative 12 June 24, 1999 . the corridor. MDTs allow the transmission of data between a mobile unit (e.g. bus) and base (e.g. dispatch center). MDT's are generally most beneficial for transit services that provide demand-responsive service (as opposed to regular route service). Transmitting data enhances demand-responsive transit operations in a number of ways including: . Dispatchers can transmit detailed information on trips at the touch of a button. This reduces the amount of time a driver spends on the radio and provides a clear, written record of the trip. . Drivers often are required to keep detailed written records of each trip, (e.g. pick-up time, mileage, drop-off time, passenger name, address, etc.). With MDT's, drivers can enter trip information and transmit the information directly to the dispatcher at the touch of a button. Traffic Management - Safety Enhancements There are a number of ways to better manage the flow of traffic, minimize the potential for auto/train conflicts at railroad crossings, and reduce motor vehicle accidents at the approaches to the crossings. This strategy focuses on safety initiatives and improving the operations of traffic signals throughout the Northstar Corridor. Initiatives proposed under this strategy utilize ITS strategies and the coordination of state and local planning efforts and include the following: . Traffic Signal Timing Coordination Efficient operations of traffic signals rely in large part on traffic signals operating in concert to accommodate the existing traffic volumes and to adapt to changing conditions and travel patterns. Generally, the quicker a traffic signal system can adjust to changes in traffic volumes, the better traffic will flow. Under this ITS initiative, it is recommended that traffic signals in the Northstar Corridor be assessed to identify those that are in need of upgrades. Specifically, those traffic signals that are not part of an interconnected system and/or in need of updated signal timing plans will be identified. Once this assessment or inventory has been completed, traffic signal interconnects systems will be installed that will include communications systems and detection equipment as necessary. Signal timing plans will also be developed and/or updated for those areas in need of updated plans. It is also recommended that traffic signals near railroad crossings along the corridor be programmed to recognize approaching trains and coordinate signals to minimize the disruption to traffic flow. The signals would be coordinated and special timing plans established to allow traffic to clear the tracks and reduce traffic back-ups. Rail/traffic signal coordination is expected. to improve safety as vehicles/buses are directed away from the crossings by the synchronization of the traffic signals. Congestion and back-ups associated with train crossings are expected to be minimized resulting in improved traffic flow. . Phase II Northstar Corridor Major Investment Study Draft - TSM Alternative 13 June 24, 1999 Automatic Tracking of Trains . The location of trains can be tracked utilizing sensors located along the railroad track. Sensors are able to detect the location, length, speed and direction of transit and transmit the information to a dispatch/information center. This information would also be transmitted to inform emergency and non-emergency vehicles about approaching trains. Emergency vehicles would be informed of the train traffic primarily through their dispatchers and motorists would be informed primarily through arterial variable message signs. Arterial variable message signs essentially serve the same purpose as changeable message signs; with the exception they are smaller in size and may be located on major arterial roadways. As a result, vehicle occupants are informed of conditions that lie ahead and are able to alter their travel plans accordingly. Other Safetv Enhancements Addressing issues related to traffic management and safety at railroad crossings can also be accomplished by integrating multi-modal planning efforts, increasing public awareness, emphasizing traffic law enforcement and enhanced research and data collection. Opportunities to coordinate efforts include the following: · Consolidate crossing safety assessments and planning to include MnlDOT, Metropolitan Planning Organizations and other regional and local agencies emphasizing corridor review. Work with communities along the route to close redundant crossings and add protective devices - crossing gates, flashing lights, median barriers and/or long-gate arms-at remaining crossings to prevent train/vehicle collisions. . · Participate in Minnesota's Operation Lifesaver program - a nationwide public education program designed to eliminate collisions, deaths, and injuries at highway-rail intersections and on railroad rights-of-way. Increase awareness of crossing safety through education/training to truck and bus drivers, and to the general public through outreach programs and safety education in schools. · Emphasize traffic law enforcement at railroad crossings; work with the state to develop stricter penalties for violations. · Enhance research and data collection to include crossing inventories, safety and demographic data. . Utilize and encourage new technologies. Commercial Vehicle Operations The movement of goods along the corridor results in over-the-road truck traffic in addition to normal vehicular traffic. Addressing safety issues as they relate to oversized vehicles is important. Utilizing ITS strategies can minimize safety concerns, these strategies include the following: · Automated Roadside Safety Inspection - Focuses on improving safety in commercial vehicle operations. · On-Board Safety Monitoring - Senses the safety status of a commercial vehicle, cargo, and driver. . Phase II Northstar Corridor Major Investment Study Draft - TSM Alternative 14 June 24, 1999 . . . . Commercial Vehicle Administrative Processes - Provides electronic purchasing of credentials and automated mileage and fuel reporting. · Hazardous Material Incident Notification - Provides immediate notification of an assistance incident and immediate request for help. . Commercial Fleet Management - Provides communications between drivers and dispatchers for efficient routing. Travel Demand Management Strategies Travel Demand Management (TDM) strategies help reduce congestion, especially during the work commute, and conserve energy by encouraging the use of alternative modes of transportation to driving alone. The Federal Transit Administration (FT A) has developed a Commuter Choice Initiative in support of alternatives to the single occupant vehicle, such as TDM strategies. Employers can benefit employees by offering TDM alternatives to commute to work other than driving alone. TDM strategies have been shown to increase employee satisfaction, improve employee retention rates and make the employer more competitive in a strong economy. The following TDM strategies are being proposed for the Northstar Corridor under the TSM Alternative. Rideshare / Transit Corridor Ridesharerrransit Services Metro Commuter Services (MCS), sponsored by the Metropolitan Council, is the regional clearinghouse for ride share matching in the Twin Cities metropolitan area. Some of the services offered by MCS are ridematching services, subsidies for start-up vans of five or more passengers, the Guaranteed Ride Home program and transit information. MCS has a ridematching database covering the seven county metropolitan area. The St. Cloud Metropolitan Transit Commission (MTC) provides services similar to MCS for the St. Cloud metropolitan area. Employees in the Twin Cities interested in car/van pooling can contact Metro Commuter Services (MCS) for ride share matching services. To contact MCS, employees can: . Call MCS at 651/349-RIDE (7433) . Return the form at the back of the Commute Planner brochure . Access the MCS web page at: www.metrocommuterservices.org . E-Mail theinformationtoMCSat:commuter.services@metc.state.mn.us Commuters in the St. Cloud area can call the St. Cloud MTC at 320/251-RIDE (7433). Under this proposed strategy these two agencies will share a common database that will give commuters a corridor-wide ridematching service for car and van pools. Today car/van pools can be set up through rideshare matching services described above. Phase II Northstar Corridor Major Investment Study Draft - TSM Alternative 15 June 24,1999 Transit . The use of transit as an alternative to the single occupant vehicle is another way to reduce congestion. Enhanced bus service along the corridor is being proposed through express bus service, new routes, expanded service area and hours of service, as described earlier. Twin Cities Metro Transit, the St. Cloud MTC and other transit providers in the corridor can supply employers/employees with transit stop locations and transit service within the corridor. Employer Support Employers along the corridor can support car/van pools and transit by: · Designating preferential parking for car/van pools close to the entrance of their office buildings. · Giving their employees up to $65 per month in benefits to commute to work by transit or eligible van pools (This program allows the employer to pay for the benefit, receive a business tax deduction, and give the employee a tax-free benefit.) · Permitting their employees to set aside pre-tax income (up to $65 per month) to pay for transit or eligible van pools. Communications/Marketing of Alternative Transportation Opportunities Communications and marketing of alternative transportation opportunities to employers and employees in the corridor is critical to making TDM strategies succeed. Two full time staff . persons are recommended to implement and market TDM strategies in the corridor. The transportation marketing staff could help employers along the corridor: · set up and maintain a display of commuter information at the entrance to buildings · educate employees on transit and rideshare opportunities · sponsor a commuter fair along the corridor · promote alternative modes of transportation during a designated month each year · write/distribute a corridor newsletter to include commuter options, information on discounted bus passes, and special commuter option events · Maintain a current, corridor-wide database for ride sharing · Provide rides hare matches . Establish van pools · The transportation marketing staff could work with employers to develop flexible work schedules for employees. · The transportation marketing staff could work with employers to develop telecommuting programs, where practical. Transit Supported Development Development around transit stations should be designed to support the goals and objectives established by the community and include the needs of transit users, residents and businesses in the area. Since design can influence the choice of transit as a mode of travel, planning efforts . should include a collaboration of government agencies, residents, local businesses, transit 16 Phase II Northstar Corridor Major Investment Study Draft - TSM Alternative June 24, 1999 . . . providers and developers, to ensure the needs of each group are identified and addressed. Cluster development around transit stations may be one alternative to enhance transit access/ usage and offer convenient housing, shopping and services to residents. Pedestrian/Bicycle Strategies There are a number of existing and proposed bicycle trails within the Northstar Corridor that are appropriate for recreational activity. Existing and planned bike paths include: . In Hennepin County, the Mississippi River Regional Trail is located on the east side of the Mississippi River and extends north to the Anoka County line. . In Anoka County the existing trail system is the Anoka County Mississippi River Regional Trail, which is located between the Mississippi River and TH 47 adjacent to CH 1 and extends from the south County line in Columbia Heights to approximately 85th A venue. . In Sherburne County there are selected county state aid highways with paved shoulders where bicycling may be permitted. Within the Corridor these are located in Big Lake, Becker, and along CSAH 11 between Big Lake and Becker townships. . Within and around the City of St. Cloud there are a number of existing and proposed biking opportunities that include paths, lanes and wide shoulders. In 1997, the City of St. Cloud had a total of 45.5 miles of bicycle facilities. A goal of the St. Cloud Area Transportation Plan Update is to increase the facility mileage by 21 %. Future plans include: . MnlDOT's 1999-2001 STIP does not include any Bike/Walk trails within the Northstar Corridor. · The Metropolitan Council's Transportation Policy Plan, December, 1996, does not include any Bike/Walk trails within the Northstar Corridor for the 1997-2000 TIP. · The Anoka County Mississippi River Regional Trail system is planned to be extended along the river from approximately 99th Avenue to Highway 169. An extension to this trail system is being proposed to continue from Highway 169 to the west County line in Ramsey. . Sherburne County's Transportation Plan indicates that the County does not maintain any separated trails or designated bikeways. These types of facilities are currently maintained on a local level. Phase II Northstar Corridor Major Investment Study Draft - TSM Alternative 17 June 24, 1999 · The St. Cloud Area 2020 Bicycle/Pedestrian plan shows bicycle opportunities within the Northstar Corridor on either side of, and adjacent to the Mississippi River from south of the City at approximately CR 115 to north of 12th Street North. . Recommendations under this strategy as part of the TSM Alternative include a multi-modal bike/transit approach: · Constructing and/or distinguishing an aggregate of approximately 10-15 additional miles of bicycle lanes that will focus on access to the proposed transit stations. This would include two to three miles of bicycle lanes directed at each of the stations in the Cities of Rice, Clear Lake, Becker, Big Lake and Elk River. · Bicycle storage facilities at each of the proposed transit stations. · Designating one luggage bay on each motor coach for the storage of bicycles. This approach would allow individuals to access transit at the home station, ride the express bus to the work station, and bike to the place of work to complete their trip. This would be reversed for the return trip. The maps on the following pages illustrate the TSM Alternative for the St. Cloud metropolitan area, Sherburne County, Anoka County and the Twin Cities metropolitan area. The maps depict the proposed commuter express bus service and new improvements/facilities along the corridor to supplement that service. The TSM Alternative is shown utilizing enhanced colors, while the existing services (No-Build Alternative) is shaded in the background. . . Phase II Northstar Corridor Major Investment Study Draft - TSM Alternative 18 June 24, 1999 "'t> 0 i v\O ..... \0 IV \0 \0 ~ n- O> ~<<<~ ~ O~ .~. e ~ ~ ~ p::nldn ~en~ p:: Ern n ~ tr:1 ~ = P:J OQ' en ~. 0 a OQ' a ~''-+:::r' ~ '"1 ~ ~ e. tt ~:> =r S -0 ; -0 ~ ~ ~ 6 .g Vi':;or n '"1 <:: p:: 0 .-+ 0 ....... 0 ~ (J'Q (1) 0 ~. =:t . 'i' ~ ~ '-< ~ -0 ~ ~ a. ~ ~ ~ Jg ~ ....... 0.. a 0.. -< r::r Ro 0.. ,..,. ....... (1) (1) r::r ~ (1)....... l:t '"1 0 ~.g~ ~~s ~~~,..,. '"1 ,..,. CIl CIl 0 (1) ::: CIl ~ . (1) ~':::r' 0 CIl CIl n' ~. ,..,. CIl 0 0 ."'1 ~ CIl ....... ,..,. n CIl = = '< CIl ~ (1) n (1) as:: '"1 ~ o..g a = (1) ~ ~,..,.(1) tt '"1~. ~. (1) ~ ~ ....... 0 (J'Q n =r;::r ~ = ~.= e. ~ CIl g r::r 'wi t-rj ...... (JQ ~ tv 'H:O 1:::0 i~ ! I r..n. ~ ~ ~ . tf.) ~ o ::\. a. _. o = r:.n ~ tf.) .-+ CD S ~ ~ ~ 0 <ffl~ S g. CD ~. sa. ~ ~ ~ CD ~. ~ ~ (t) ~ n ~ o ~ 0.. ~ (t) o .-+ ~ ~ o I-j "'1 ~ l'J'.l "'d ~rJl ~. ~ 8 CD ~ 0' ~~ (\) ~ s ~ f(t) cffln (\) 0 ~ ~ a ~ ~~ (\) S a _. -< (\) -:...~ tIJ ...... ~ ~ <: ~~~ ~ r~' >OJ ~::;o ~'.., :E ~, ~, ~. I ,<. "'}:> 0 ....... 9 0 .\0 - \0 tv \0 \0 w ~ 1f ~<<~~ ~00 .~e e ~ ~ -cd ::r: (1 ?O (1 'I:l (/.l 'I:l ::r: S" (1 (1 'I:l tIJ 'I:l ~ ~ ..... (/.l ~ 0 '""l crq' a ......-+::r S. '""l ~ ~ e. (t ~ > =f S .g s"O ~ ~ ~ ~ .g tn. ~ n '""l ~ ::r: 0 .-+ 0 ...... 0 ~ n ~ ~ 0 ~. o. -6' ~ ~ '< ~"O ~ ~ ~. g ~ ~ Jg 0. e. o.(ilo. <: 0" Ro 0. ~ ~ (t) (t)0" ~ (t)...... q"" 0 ~s~ o.~(t) <: ~.-+ "0 "0 lZl ~...... S a. ~ lZl '""l .-+ lZl lZl 0 (t) ::: . lZl .... . (t) .....::r 0 lZl lZl n ::i.''-+ ~oo '""l ~lZl""" '" n = ~ '< lZl ~ (t) (5 (t) g s: ~ ~ go = a ;::;. (t) 0. lZl'-+ ct [ (t) '""l o' crq' g g. P- ~ =~. ~ ~ ~ lZl gO"O" ~ _. (fq ~ CD W D~ la I II li~ I n ::r' S "'0 - ..... . ::s ti:l a o ~ - ~ l-Q ~ I ~ ~ 00 '"0 o :4 ~> _. o ::s ~ ~o ~~ 53 ~ ~n I cffl 0 (l) ~ I ~.~ I :a~ ,> , - 1ft I s I~ j ...... I a I i I I'c " f"..., . ''-.. ,'~ ~ ;;- '" . ,<<<<~ ~ o~ .~. e ~ ~ ~ p:: n :::0 n ""d r.t:l""d p:: ~ n n ""d t:r:l ""d S a ciCi. > ~ g a~. a ciCi. (t ~ S a ~. ~ 6: ~ ~ p:: a e ~ a ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ g. [ "0 ~ ~ '< (p "0 (p ~ d". ~ ~ (p ~ g. a 0.. a 0.. < i::T Ro 0.. f"'l" _ (p (p cr- ~ (p CD t:t'" a ~.g~ ~~s g.~~ (p .-+- tI.l tI.l (p _. tI.l :::;,. tI.l o.::r 0 ~ ~ a :::;,. n tI.l = g ~ tI.l ~ (p n (p a -.., ~ o..ge ~ 0.. ~ (p (P.-+-(P .-+- ~ 0.. tI.l (t (P ""'t=r (P o. _. .., - ~ n =r ~ = d".~ a ; tI.l g cr-'-J --.. "'Tj ..... (JQ ~ (1) ~ I~ .a I Ii Ii "J> o '- 5 C1l .\0 o U. .... \0 \0 \0 'CO 1;0 i~ ~ I .... '" / - ~ ~ Y //i \, <j ~ t~ 7!~ ~ j ~~~~i1'; "~.. f ~ z .. g ) ~)" ( ,:,,1 ~r'.' j ~ 0 /~.ii ~;:~~~,A . .~~~fb/ ..... 4 rb d . '. """ ',,,, ~ , ~ \ ,>1 ~ . ~. ~,..jit::;/t;:: 'j{ -.lj"'"3~; ~.,l~J ",-'" 7'.. ___, "'"3~' l' ",. .~ '.. . .';<<"",,,., . .'.C:- ~.. ~ !l1""'"3 ~ '11~/.<,~,t .. ~ I" "'"3 r\J::!<~!b~t::' 'CC""~' l ~/ 'I~ " . ",. .,"U. . ... ',' ,", ",' &~: ..~ /' \ t Ii .j~ I. ~ ~ ~ '" " .' J;:x ~. ~..<!.i...:,<'~.,..,..',. ..8 I . '~5J .~. f 1 ". --.. .---,.... ~'. ! :;; - ~ r. .&~/,.. /~'~.. V ;j .. Ql I . ..' 1-' \--; / .?4? ,.il I . /~ ..-....~. ~." 'g. - ","~~ J ~ IJ .. ~ .;' ~~ ./ --;' .. .?Z.., , ~ ~ j ~f.~ ~ (\) ~~. = f ,r ~ ~ ~",".., . 8M ' ~ '~'J>:; l'\j I"' 7) '; ~ ">"",, ~ ""'!.....", 'II '-"" " r ~ ~, PI ;;; /' ,...l~\ . '~ .'-."',.- ) if ......-./ :J 1/ ~ c) ~ ' , ( , ,l~ /~ I /\.. /' I ./ ["U 1J~ n' , "-<~ "U ~ ..-. l. '< - \ I ~ ~~ ~~ ./~.,' , ~."" 0' ,_. -;::$ /~,. ~ ~ " 't1r" . ,....., ,:'- "":':'- "U ;,. ."". 0 ~ ~ .', . -."'" -.;: ..--.'" J - ttj a o ~ ..-. '< = ~ ~ zI> i -~<< ~ ~ o~ .~e e ~ ~ ~ ::r1 n ~ n ""d CZl""d ::r1 S" n n ""d tr:1 ""d = !:l) ..... CZl !:l) 0 a uq' a ......-+ t:r' e: ""'l :>< e:j e. ct ~ :> ~ = "0 ='"0 ~ ~ ~ = .g en' ~ () ""'l ~ ::r:: 0 a 0 a 0 ~ !:l) O'Q (1) 0 ::t'::I. ..... !:l) '< 00 00 <: () (1) ""'l 00 =' 0.: "0 ~ 0.. (1)"0 (1) !:l) ::t'!:l) !:l) (1) (J'q a '" 0.. ""'l 0.. '< -< 0" 0... 0.. (1) (1) (1) 0" !:l) (1) - (',- l:t l:t 0" :>< 8= 0.. ~(1) -< !:l).-+ "0 "0 00 ;s...... s g.. ~ ~ ~ .-+ 00 00 0 (1) =:. 00 ..... w ..... t:r' 0 00 00 () :=j.:'-+ ~ 0 0 ,""I ~ r/J - -. () =' = '<: 00!:l) (1) '-, (1) a - ""'l (J'q 0.. (1) =' a ft ~ ~ a ~s- (1) ""'l o' uq' g ~ ~ S" =,::t. .... e.. ~ 00 g 5- v ~ ...... 0'Cl ~ (\) VI o =- = C\) - .\0 ...... \0 \0 \0 ." ~CJ 1;0 i< ill < ! I w ~ g ..11". ','";,,,-- ~ ~ " ~ r:n ..... ~ o :4- e _.. o ::s r:/J '-< r:n ...... (D S ~ ~ ~ (D S (D ~~ ff S e _. <:: ~ (D '~.,~ .,~ ~ ~V "U D~ la I It I~ I . ... ~ ~ ~. ~ n ~. ~ ~. (() 00 ~ ('D ~ o ~ o """"'""" ~. ~ ~ > ~ (() ~ 4 . BRW A DAMES & MOORE GROUP COMPANy MEMORANDUM BRW Thresher Square 700 Third Street South Minneapolis, MN 55415 Phone: (612) 370-0700 Fax: (612) 370-1378 To: NCDA From: April Manlapaz Date: June 24, 1999 Subject: Preliminary TH 10/TH 47 Highway Improvements Attached are six figures presenting the preliminary roadway improvements to TH 10/TH 47. These improvements will be discussed at the upcoming NCDA meeting on July 1, 1999. . These improvements are based on the following: 1. A review of existing transportation plans and capital improvement programs. 2. Meetings with the following agencies: · Mn/DOT Metro Division, Hennepin County and the City of Minneapolis · Anoka County and the Cities of Anoka, Blaine, Coon Rapids, Fridley and Ramsey · Sherburne County and the Cities of Becker, Big Lake and Elk River · Mn/DOT District 3, Benton County, St. Cloud Area Planning Organization and the Cities of Rice, Sauk Rapids and St. Cloud · Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railroad. 3. Initial comments from the Technical Advisory Committee (T AC) These improvements were presented to the T AC on June 17, 1999. The attached figures include comments from them received as of June 23, 1999. . Also attached is a matrix that summarizes each improvement based on geographic location and level of investment. The geographic groupings are based on the urbanized areas along the corridor. The level of investment groupings are Low, Medium and High. Low-level investments typically include addition oftum lanes and access management. Mid-level investments could include Phase II Northstar Corridor Major Investment Study Draft - Build Alternative June 24, 1999 . construction of frontage roads, while high-level investments could include construction of river bridges and interchanges. Note that frontage roads could become a high-level investment . depending on right-of-way costs. (Note: "Focal Access" locations denoted on the attached figures are access locations that have been identified by Mn/DOT as part of a preliminary long-term plan for managing access on TH 10. This study was part of the Sherburne County Transportation Plan.) On July 1 st, three break out sessions will be held that will allow you to comment on these preliminary improvements. The groupings will be as follows: 1. Minneapolis - Coon Rapids 2. Anoka - Becker (west city limits). 3. West Becker city limits - Rice. On July 1 st, there will also be large-scale aerial maps of the urbanized areas that show the draft roadway improvements. They will be provided for greater detail in these areas. . . 2 June 24, 1999 Phase II Northstar Corridor Major Investment Study Draft - Build Alternative 4 *".",... I- I ,; . I If' Potential Highway Improvements Twin Cities Metropolitan Area Fi8tn 1 or 6 I II """I ~ ~ e ~ 8,e. o..SID i !l O'(S 8 >..U N i ~lAi~ ibatte l:E< 19 'S ~ o ~ I I 3:! il ,," . ?ii;',"''::';'.'' "-\." ',\::" . .::..;" ':- .- ., ,.. .: ,- ',,' ,-- ! '" j " --, . ~ -, , "'.- ,.,':, : "<'" ''<,,-. " - - ~." J " I, l o -, ',- o ~ N ~ " ~-' ",';;, ... o 1:1 !11t " sj~1:l ~ ..rf!1l~. " ! J~ J:~ -, " '-"', " '0 c:I.. : f;~~" : ",,", ,",' ,':,:. .'.' '" , " ',. .: '. -' '-' " . .- : ,. , t: ,- ~ . i "'" - " ',.- ;,- -" ,. \<"""'-"1 ':>.::.V;,~o:'':':'f<'' -, . ~ " :~,' ,-.,,, " " , l- " " ",,: ' '~~/,., ':;:".,' "., ,". " ',-' '- ." "t ' ',', '. ,', ' " . . n._'''- , . .~ ".~,,,.:.,, ," i/""<"' ;:>",;,;:-:. ,."~,-::_,:., "",' ,,"'",,''' .' " ' '. "',<. , ~'i '." , ,", " . ' ;', fi~.' "~.. '. ~; ?~."- ~ , .." , , ',/;. . . . ~ .-..~, '" ;;;;, ,'I. ;>' t::'/ ,t., . r , c, ,.; /: ,'.' t. . .,: . . .. , '.,'. . ..' - " ,'. '>.;. . ...... y :. ~ ; .. '. . . I>, '; .. :.; '.. c Oc L 1-" .. ~.8 I', .' . .. !.<<ll' ,'- : ';"'1' "/'/:/'" ,7( . . H............;. '\... .0 ,', . '" ~ t-' - -~,s. y:; U.1' ." ". ~...'." :j HI i; ,'. ..... .... ;" ~. . . ':. ~;" ,'. ~...; ./., . .' . '. I . . ..:: . '<; . ",' ", :'" .',',', ,."; . ':,' " : '. , I O>! >..... $!, . .',. .. . ....\. I., "', !~,;/;':-:>.~ ". ',.'. ,': /!",., "", ' " ' ; '" "," "';':;,<,,<'/:;,,' :' - '.. C !i/,,,'..-i: "':' ""': "'"" --' ,f " _:k:{. '- ~ ,'X'~- " ,x,, ';:''s,:: /' "'C'~, ",_, ,,':~, '," ,',. __ \~.f' CD <0 - '--" ;';~;':"!i;:';,~ _~\;:~:':,: _ > ~g{:\~H)~f;t\ '- '1 .- ;" . _ ..' /. /'<(',',.,~:' '",,:, ~' '.~....... ~ ., ': .~, ~ " .. "\j'i~,;::,,'" ,', .:', ,\';,.'j 'I ' "", ",P, . '~"',.. ",'. \. ~ L:::;:~~- .,', ,'co. <-.;- ;,' ~:::~~~.' ;, .\, '.' ~ ",'- -\,.' "',',. :: " ;',,',;',:. <. ~.;~~I .- :"'\~,f,;' " '> ,:;\<~:;:;,\ i' - _I . . ! ~ ta '':= = (I,) '0 Q. ~ e ~ e "" Q.~\D . ~ ... ~ ! f ~ '2 1 ~~ li . :E iil 'I .. r i ~! ad iii ~ ~ <I_ ~ e ~ 8 Q. ~~~I ~~ 0 < ~ .!:P i ] 01) l%l Ii: . :E ~ "ii .~ o "0 ~ . . . . . I 11) I -. C! ~I_ Q) ~j ~~ . ~g . ! ~ !~;J ) ~ ~ i 1 ~ ~ ~] s. 1\ {i '0:00 a 'ii .,.:1 5 '0 ~ ~ '" - ~.... \ l...j ~.I... e~ !4! I 1Il I .. - <1,. , <' -rl r-r """ IQa JII - ..... /.?G, ..;Y""'" 1 I.. s".~,.,' './:I .g "'. - '" .., ,1], a .~~~ t I ~ ! 5! ---. - r I~~t~:\ ~ .,v , j_~_ ~ ~ , j ) } IIIl ... .. fl, '" 1 ~, l\ L.!::J "" ~ l~.. ~) o " - D ~ ~ Jt~ ~ · 11f:!; ~..... /f"', J 1 v~5< ',:.J.~ ~ -. l":;:;ry\..-!~ L ~, eel .~... ~:'t ":';;;'~~'!1 I 1 , ~ 1 ' v ~:,~..... J ~ c: 1- L-^~ (~;:""t:;\ ~'3~W('c; ~ )- I ~, '9~ . .. -:MiS I ..Ill.... .... I .. 'T! .-oov\llOOlle 9 JO 9 t.mi!.!I ;J:)mtPDO[;) . lS SlU;JWMOJdlUJ AvA\1{3!H JU!lUalOd . . I I 't l-i ......~ t TH lOrrH 47 PROPOSED IMPROVEMENTS Northstar Corridor Major Investment Study . June 24, 1999 Level of Area Investment Minneapolis Coon Rapids Anoka Ramsey Elk River Low Not applicable. Not applicable. Consolidate access Consolidate access. Consolidate access. west of Main Street. Coordinate signals. Coordinate signals at Joplin and Upland. Medium Not applicable. Not applicable. Not applicable. Not applicable. Construct south frontage road between Waco Street and Joplin Street. * Construct west frontage road between 173rd Avenue and Jarvis Street. * High Expand existing Expand existing Expand existing Construct potential Construct potential 4-lane expressway to 4-lane freeway to 4-lane freeway to interchange at river interchange at CSAH 6-1ane expressway 6-lane freeway 6-lane freeway crossing to Dayton. 14/15. (between 37th Ave between Egret Blvd between Egret Blvd (Close access west and TH 10). and Thurston Ave. and Thurston Ave. of Armstrong Blvd if bridge is . constructed. ) . *Right-of-way costs vary and this investment could become high-level depending on right-of-way costs. BRW, Inc. Page 1 of2 TH lOffH 47 PROPOSED IMPROVEMENTS Northstar Corridor Major Investment Study June 24, 1999 Level of Investment Low Big Lake Consolidate access. Medium Complete south frontage road between CR 43 and 172nd Avenue. * Construct north backage road between CR 43 and 172nd Avenue.* Becker Consolidate access. Construct south frontage road between CSAH 8 and Hancock. Extend CSAH 8 to CSAH 11.* High Construct potential southern bypass. Construct potential interchange at 200th St. Grade-separate new north-south collector and TH 10? Construct potential interchange at river crossing (Alternative Dl). Clear Lake Consolidate access. f . St. CloudlRice Consolidate access. Extend CR 66 as frontage road (northwest of Clear Lake).* Construct west frontage road south of Scenic. * Construct west frontage road from TH 301 to Sherburne CSAH 3.* Construct potential interchange at river crossing (Alternative B or C). Grade-separate St. GermainffH 10. Construct potential interchange with river crossing (Alternative A). . Construct potential interchange at CSAH 33/Benton Dr. Construct east frontage road between TH 23 and 15th Ave. Consolidate access. Realign of Del-Tone Rd with Lincoln Ave and extend frontage road from 15th Ave. Extend Michigan Ave to TH 10 and Del-Tone Rd (bridge over TH 10?) or construct interchange at TH 10 as part of Alt. G. Connection to TH 10 from local river crossinglbeltway from 33rd St. . BRW, Inc. *Right-of-way costs vary and this investment could become high-level depending on right-aI-way costs. Page 2 of2