7.3. SR 08-15-2005
Item 7.3.
Item#
MEMORANDUM
DATE:
Mayor and City Council
Scott Harlicker, Senior p,ann4
August 15,2005
TO:
FROM:
SUBJECT:
North~arCo~dorUpda~
Councilmember Motin is the City's representative on the NCDA. He is scheduled to provide
an update at the August 15th Council meeting. Attached are the agenda and the packet from
the NCDA meeting held on August 4th.
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NCDA
Meeting Agenda
August 4, 2005
4:30 P.M.
Anoka County Government Center, Board Room, th Floor
Anoka, MN
Action Requested
1.
Minutes of the July 7,2005 NCDA Meeting*
Approval
2. Executive Committee Report:
a) 2006 Northstar Operating and Special Demonstration
Project Budget*
Approval
b) Brokerllnsurance Consulting Services Agreement with
Marsh USA, Inc. *
Approval
c) Amendment #3 to Professional and Technical Services
Agreement with Laidlaw Transit Services, Inc.*
Approval
d) Sub-recipient Agreements between the Anoka, Hennepin,
and Sherburne County Regional Railroad Authorities for
Grant Funds to be used for Real Estate Acquisitions*
Approval
e) Northstar Project Funding Agreement between NCDA, the
Hennepin County Regional Railroad Authority and the
Metropolitan Council for Light Rail Vehicle Acquisition*
Approval
f) Amendment #4 to the Agreement for Professional Services
with Richardson, Richter & Associates, Inc.*
Approval
g) Agreement with APTA for Peer Review Services*
Approval
h) City of Anoka Request for Letter of Support for 2009-2010
CMAQ Application*
Information
3.
FT A Issues:
Information
a) Monthly Report*
b) Final Design Application Update
c) Risk Assessment
4.
Technical Reports:
Discussion
a) Advanced and Final Design of Commuter Rail
i. Bio-Diesel Fuel Report
b) Advanced and Final Design of LRT Connection
NCDA Agenda Item #1
NORTHST AR CORRIDOR DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY
DRAFT: Meeting Minutes for Approval
July 7,2005
The Northstar Corridor Development Authority met on July 7,2005, in regular session at the Anoka
County Government Center, Anoka, Minnesota.
In attendance: Duane Grandy, Tim Yantos, Joe Voigt, Woody Bissett, Ewald Petersen, John Norgren,
Felix Schmiesing, Lewis Stark, Scott Schulte, Paul Motin, Dennis Berg, Mike Schadauer, Mark
Fuhrmann, Tim Kirchoff, Dean Michalko, Pat Wussow, Patricia May, Jim Barton, Steve Novak, Scott
LeDoux, Linda Jungwirth, Margaret Langfeld, Lona Schreiber, Bill Schreiber, Robert Kirschner, Kelli
Neu, Arne Engstrom, Jeanne Mason, Robert Barnett, Paul Danielson, Ken Stevens, Jill Brown, Tom
Gamec, Bruce Nawrocki, Paul Ostrow, Carl Anderson, Peg Aho, Mary Richardson, Tom Ryan, Sue
Youngs, Dee Guthmann, Jon Olson, Paul McCarron, Brian Bensen, Todd Rapp, John Himle, Cliff
Greene
1. Scott Schulte made a motion to approve the June 2, 2005 meeting minutes with two changes:
add Mary Richardson to attendance list and fix typo in first paragraph on page 5. The motion
was seconded by Paul Motin and passed unanimously on a voice vote.
2. Executive Committee Report: Resolution #2005-01: City of Big Lake Station Location. Ken
Stevens noted that value engineers recommended that the location of the Big Lake Station be
moved to the Southeast corner of Sherburne County Road 43 and the BNSF railroad tracks in
order to improve safety and to enhance operating efficiencies of the Project. Mr. Stevens noted
that the City of Big Lake approved the new location of the station on June 8, 2005. He also
noted that there will have to be an annexation of the land to the City of Big Lake so that utility
services can be provided. Staff brought before the NCDA for approval Resolution 2005-01
which resolves that the NCDA hereby approves the location of the Big Lake Commuter Rail
Station in the Southeast corner of Sherburne County Road 43 and the BNSF railroad tracks in
the Town of Big Lake, and recommends that the Commissioner of Transportation incorporate
the new location into the State's plan for the Northstar Commuter Rail Project; and that the
NCDA requests the Sherburne County Regional Railroad Authority to proceed to acquire the
property as needed for the commuter rail station and maintenance facility, on behalf of the
Project and in accordance with FT A requirements. Ewald Petersen made a motion that the
NCDA approve Resolution #2005-01 as presented. The motion was seconded by Scott Schulte
and passed unanimously on a voice vote.
3. Resolution #2005-02: Phase II of the Northstar Commuter Rail Project: Held over until a future
meeting.
4. 2005 Professional Services Contract Amendments:
a) Amendment #1 to the BNSF Rail Passenger Capacity Improvements Engineering
Agreement;
b) Amendment #2 to the North Woods Advertising, Inc. Agreement for Professional
Services;
c) Amendment #4 to the Agreement for Professional Services with Kenneth Stevens;
d) Amendment #4 to the Richardson, Richter & Associates, Inc. Agreement for Professional
Services.
Tim Yantos noted that the Executive Committee/Capital Budget Committee approved the
above contract amendments at its July 7,2005 meeting and brought them to the NCDA for
approval. Scott Schulte noted that the numbers in the contract amount section of the
Richardson, Richter & Associates, Inc. request for amendment do not calculate. After some
review, discussion and clarification of numbers for the Richardson, Richter & Associates
requested contract amendment, Felix Schmiesing made a motion that the contract
amendments be approved as follows: a) Amendment #1 to the Rail Passenger Capital
Improvements Engineering Agreement with BNSF increasing the contract maximum by
$168,900; b) Amendment #2 to the North Woods Advertising, Inc. Agreement for public
information and involvement services extending the term of the Agreement to December 31,
2006; c) Amendment #4 to the Kenneth Stevens Agreement for professional services
increasing the contract amount by and additional $70,000; and d) Amendment #4 to the
Richardson, Richter & Associates, Inc. Agreement for professional services increasing the
contract amount by an additional $116,300. The motion was seconded by Arne Engstrom
and passed unanimously on a voice vote.
5. FT A Issues:
a) Monthly Report: Mike Schadauer reviewed the June 2005 Monthly Report which was
sent to the FT A.
b) Final Design Application Update: Mike Schadauer gave an update on the final design
application process. He noted that the Executive Committee/Capital Budget Committee
had authorized the PMT members to travel to Chicago on July 14, 2005 to meet with the
FTA.
6. Technical Reports: Ken Stevens gave an update on the Advanced and Final Design of
Commuter Rail and the Advanced and Final Design of the LRT Connection.
7. Legislative Reports: Nothing new to report.
8. Public Information Reports: John Himle and Jill Brown gave brief updates on current public
information activities.
9. Other: Tom Gamec noted that TAZ's had changed for the Ramsey area. Staff acknowledged
the change. Tom Gamec noted that the City of Ramsey had been told by the FT A that they do
not understand why the Ramsey Station site is not included in th.e Northstar Project description.
Mike Schadauer noted that the Project is now submitting a request to enter final design, and the
FT A recommends that no changes be made to the Project description prior to entering final
design. Revisions to the Project description at this time would not be helpful to the Project. Dan
Erhart asked if the City of Ramsey has received anything in writing from the FT A regarding the
Ramsey Station. Tom Gamec replied no.
10. Other: Next meeting date: Chair Grandy set the next meeting for August 4 at 4:30 p.m. at the
Anoka County Government Center.
Duane Grandy, Chairperson
Date
2
Executive Committee Agenda Item #3
NCDA Agenda Item #2a
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MEMORANDUM
DATE:
July 28, 2005
TO:
NCDA Executive Committee / Capital Budget Committee
NCDA
FROM:
Tim Yantos, Executive Director
RE:
2006 NCDA Operating Budget and Special Demonstration Project Budget
Attached for your consideration is the Final Draft of the 2006 Northstar Operating Budget
and Special Demonstration Budget. As you will recall, the operating budget includes
those expenses that are not eligible for FTA grant funding, including legislative activities,
community advocacy, insurance and miscellaneous administrative expenses. In
addition, the NCDA's budget includes the special demonstration project, the Northstar
Commuter Coach service.
As set forth in the Joint Powers Agreemer)t, the county regional railroad authorities
contribute the necessary revenue to cover these expenses, on an annual basis. Staff
are recommending that the Executive Committee/Capital Budget Committee recommend
that the NCDA approve the Final 2006 Operating Budget and Special Demonstration
Project Budget as presented.
The second part of the NCDA budget is the Northstar Rail Project Capital Budget.
These expenses are grant eligible and funding sources include the NCDA funding
partners, the State of Minnesota, the Metropolitan Council and the FTA. Note that this
portion of the budget is still being developed, but it is currently estimated that no
additional contributions will be needed from the NCDA Funding Partners for 2006.
Note that the NCDA will consider a final 2005 budget reconciliation at its December
meeting.
Action Requested:
That the NCDA Executive Committee/Capital Budget Committee
recommend that the NCDA approve the Final 2006 NCDA
Operating Budget and Special Demonstration Project Budgets
as presented.
Nortlzstar Corridor Development Autlzori(v
21003. Avenue. Anoka. Minnesota 55303-2265 (763) 323-5700 Fax: (763) 323-5682 www.northstartrain,org
DRAFT
2006 Northstar Budget
Total Budget Sources
at
Funding Sources
Anoka County
Sherburne County
Hennepin County
Benton County
Total Budget Sources
Std
Cost
Catag
40
40.02
40.03
60
60.01
80
80.01
80.02
80.03
80.04
80.05
80.06
80.07
2006 Operating and Special Demo Project Budget for approval
Amount
$30,000.00
$145.230.00
$30.000.00
$300,000.00
$40.000.00
$100,000.00
$645,230.00
$409,721.05
$96,784.50
$93,558.35
$45.166.10
$645,230.00
Amount
$251,529.00
$137,084.00
$96,419.00
$12,157.00
$5,869.00
$0.00
$251.529.00
Amount
mou nt
7/28/2005
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Executive Committee Agenda Item #4
NCDA Agenda Item #2b
MEMORANDUM
DATE:
July 28,2005
TO:
NCDA Executive Committee / Capital Budget Committee
NCDA
FROM:
Staff
RE:
Contract for Broker/Insurance Consulting Services
The NCDA issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) for Broker/Insurance Consulting Services for
the Northstar Commuter Rail Project on April 18, 2005. In general, the RFP requested
proposals to perform the following tasks:
1. Advise the NCDA in negotiating insurance terms and conditions with BNSF for both the
construction and operational phases of the Northstar Corridor Rail Project.
2. Identify and determine insurance requirements for design and construction professionals
and contractors that will be involved in this project and advise the NCDA.
3. Place insurance coverages to ensure all carriers are providing coverages and services,
as agreed.
4. Manage placed insurance, as agreed.
5. Oversee audit services, claim services and loss control and safety services to ensure
that the project is in compliance with all federal, state and local safety requirements
while controlling costs.
6. Monitor issuance of certificates of insurance and on-going consultation of risk
management services to the NCDA.
7. Identify and recommend insurance coverages and assist in managing the transfer from
construction to operations stage of this project while maintaining coverages for all parties
involved.
8. Coordinate with light rail to ensure there are no gaps in coverages, loss control and
safety programs.
Two firms responded to the RFP: Willis of Minnesota, Inc. and Marsh USA, Inc. (Marsh).
At the June 2, 2005 NCDA meeting, the NCDA selected Marsh as the top ranked proposer and
directed staff to enter into contract negotiations with Marsh for broker/insurance consulting
services. The following staff represented the Northstar Project in the negotiations:
. Phillip Blue, State Department of Administration
. Colleen Herrmann, Anoka County
. Mary Richardson, Northstar Project Management Team
. John Sullivan, Anoka County
. Phil Walljasper, Metropolitan Council
. Marlys Williamson, State Department of Administration
Northstar Corridor Development Authority
21003 · Avenue. Anoka. Minnesota 55303-2265 (763) 323-5700 Fax: (763) 323-5682 \v\v\v.northstartrain.org:
Negotiations with Marsh took place in June and July 2005. Marsh provided the attached draft
scope of services and budget. The scope of services is responsive to the negotiation team's
requested changes, but not all members of the negotiation team had reviewed the draft at the
time this memo was prepared.
The negotiation team will complete its review of this draft and present its recommendation to the
NCDA Executive Committee I Capital Budget Committee on August 4, and request that the
Committee recommend that the NCDA authorize the Chair to finalize negotiations and execute
an agreement with Marsh. The agreement will be for an amount not to exceed $567,400 and
with a term commencing upon contract execution and expiring July 31, 2009. The services that
will be provided under this agreement will be paid for with federal grant funds.
Action Reauested: That the Executive Committee I Capital Budget Committee recommend
that the NCDA authorize the Chair to finalize negotiations and execute
an agreement with Marsh USA, Inc. for an amount not to exceed
$567,400 and with a term commencing upon execution and expiring
July 31,2009.
Exhibit A
Scope of Services, Annual Fees and Budget
I. BUDGET AND PAYMENT SCHEDULE
a. Project Risk Assessment
i. Total Cost: $40,400.00
ii. Payment Date: Upon completion, currently anticipated no later
than October 31, 2005
b. Project Consulting
i. Total Cost: $6,222.22 per month commencing November 1,2005,
in an amount not to exceed a total of $280,000;00
ii. Payment Dates: Payable quarterly commencing January 31,2006
c. Optional Services for Insurance Placement and Administration
i. Coverage:
1. Builders Risk - Placement Fee: $35,500
2. Rolling Stock - Placement Fee:$35,OPO
3. Railroad liability - Placement Fee: $63,500
4. Railroad Protective - Placernentf'ee: $5,000
5. Environmental liability""'" Placement Fee: $33,000
6. Project ProfessIonalliabilitY-:Pla'cement Fee: $40,000
ii. Payment Date://," "
1. 25% due upon NCDAapproval of market submission;
additional 75% du~,upon binding coverages 1 through 4
above. ' .
2. 25% due upon NCDA approval of market submission;
additional 50% due upon delivery of proposals; final 25%
due upon binding of coverages 5 and 6 above.
iii. The above placement fees shall cover all services for placement
and administration of each type of insurance for duration of the
project, excluding optional services listed in Section I.d. below.
The aboveJees are payable only for the initial placement of each
type of coverage. No additional placement fees shall be payable
for renewals or amended coverages.
d. Optional services relating to claimslloss control and Hilmerson
safety services
i. Total Cost: Not to exceed $35,000
ii. Payment Rates:
1. $200/hour for claims or loss control
2. $115/hour for safety services provided by Hilmerson
Services, LLC
II. SCOPE OF SERVICES
a. Project Risk Assessment
i. Conduct comprehensive risk assessment to identify exposures
that the Minnesota Department of Transportation, the
Metropolitan Council and the Northstar Corridor Development
Authority and its members (collectively referred to as the
"Northstar Cooperating Entities") will be exposed to before, during
II
and after construction and before and during operational phases
of this project.
ii. Based on identified exposures, Marsh will design risk financing
and/or transfer strategies to mitigate identified exposures to
protect the interests of the Northstar Cooperating Entities. Marsh
will perform the following analysis for each identified exposure,
including exposures relating to the BNSF activities and contracts:
1. Description of the identified exposure;
2. Potential effect of identified exposures on the pre-
construction/construction and/or operational p~~ses of the
project;/.),i
3. Risk financing alternatives available, includirig.)ii)'\"'i
recommended level of risk to be retain~dQy,Northstaf
Cooperating Entities; .
4. Available insurance markets;
5. Estimated cost of alternatives;
6. Pros and cons of each alternative; and
7. Recommend types and levelsqtcOVt3rage to minimize
costs while achieving maximumcoverage and/or
protection. .
b. Project Consulting Services ,.. '. .
i. Contract Management . ..//
1. Identify potential haza~dswithdesign and construction
professionals and contractors that will be involved in this
project, develop in.surance coverages and limits to be
reqUired by the Nort~star Cooperating Entities for the
con1n~ctors appropriate to the risk and exposure to protect
Jhe Nort~~tar Cooperating Entities.
2. Assist inm~naging the transfer from construction to
,'/
operations stage of this project whileadvising on proper
\ insurance coverages to be maintained by all parties
involved.
3. Obtain and review certificates of insurance submitted by
. . contractors to ensure they are in compliance with the
required insurance.
ii. BNSF Negotiations
1. Advise the Northstar Cooperating Entities in negotiating
insurance and indemnification terms and conditions with
the BNSF for both the construction and operational phases
of the Northstar Corridor Rail Project. Identify and provide
risk financing and/or transfer alternatives to Northstar
Cooperating Entities that mitigate identified exposures and
protect the interests of the Northstar Cooperating Entities
with respect to BNSF negotiations. Analysis for each
alternative will include but not be limited to the following
elements:
a. Description of the indemnification required by
BNSF;
b. Potential effects on Northstar Cooperating Entities;
12
received on Northstar's account and the method used to calculate
fees;
xiv. Provide the project with special reports, upon request;
xv. Coordinate with insurance companies to provide the loss and
claims experience reports to the Northstar Project Office on a
quarterly basis.
xvi. Annually submit to the Northstar Project Office a stewardship
report of the work performed during the year; the results achieved;
premiums paid; income earned; losses incurred; summary of the
current insurance program; number of hours spent on the
Northstar project; any outstanding matters, unfulfillecj
recommendations for risk coverage or cost improvemellt;and
goals and objectives for the coming year. Thi~report will be due
30 days after the anniversary date of this contract.
xvii. Effective upon the renewal or placement by COl1sultahtofthe
NCDA's excess liability insurance program, unlesstheNCDA
gives the Consultant client executive contrary instn.Jctions in
writing, whenever the Consultant clientexe(;utive is informed in
writing by the NCDA that a c1aimhasbl?en notified to the primary
carrier, Consultant will notify aU applicabl~.~xcess carriers where
Consultant has placed the applicable excess policies or the
Consultant client executive has been provided written notice by
the NCDA of the applicable carrier and policies. If Consultant is
instructed not to provide.notice to any excess carrier, Consultant
shall have no responsibilityfor any consequences arising out of
the failure to give notice.
d. Optional services relating to claims/loss control and Hilmerson
Services, LLC safety.~ervices
i. Claims/Loss Coht(ol: At the request of the Northstar Cooperating
Entities, facilitate the adjustment of settlement of claims and
losses, and advise the Northstar Cooperating Entities regarding
coverage application to specific claims, in coordination with the
Northstar Risk Management Advisory Committee.
ii. Construction & Operational Safety and Security: Perform
Safetylloss control analysis, establish policies & procedures to
minimize injuries & property damages, prepare contingency plan,
in case of damage to property and/or injuries that occur on the
project and implement necessary steps to minimize disruption in
the construction and operational phases of the project.
14
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Executive Committee / Capital Budget Committee Agenda Item #5
NCDA Agenda Item #2c
MEMORANDUM
DATE:
July 28, 2005
TO:
Executive Committee / Capital Budget Committee
Northstar Corridor Development Authority
FROM:
Staff
RE:
Amendment #3 to Professional and Technical Services Agreement with Laidlaw
Transit Services, Inc.
At its June 2, 2005 meeting, the Northstar Corridor Development Authority (NCDA) agreed to
continue funding for the Northstar Commuter Bus for one year, from October 1, 2005 through
September 30, 2006.
In order to continue the bus service for another year, it is recommended that the NCDA amend
the agreement (2003-0199) between Laidlaw Transit Services, Inc.. (the commuter bus service
provider) and the NCDA for operating services October 1, 2005 through September 30, 2006,
not to exceed $1.209.743 for services provided for this term.
Action ReQuested:
That the Executive Committee/Capital Budget Committee recommend
that the NCDA authorize the Chair to finalize negotiations and execute
Amendment #3 between Laidlaw Transit Services, Inc. and the NCDA
for operating services October 1, 2005 through September 30, 2006
and a contract amount of $1 ,209,743 for these services.
Northstar Corridor Development Authority
21003' Avenue. Anoka. Minnesota 55303-2265 (763) 323-5700 Fax: (763) 323-5682 w\vw.northstartrain.org
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Executive Committee / Capital Budget Committee Agenda Item #6
NCDA Agenda Item #2d
MEMORANDUM
DATE:
July 28,2005
TO:
Executive Committee / Capital Budget Committee
Northstar Corridor Development Authority
FROM:
Staff
RE:
Subrecipient Agreements with Anoka County Regional Railroad Authority,
Hennepin County Regional Railroad Authority and the Sherburne County
Regional Railroad Authority for Grant Funds to be Used for Real Estate
Acquisitions
The acquisition of real estate for the commuter rail stations will be funded by a grant from the
Metropolitan Council, as well as grants from Mn/DOT of federal funds. The NCDA has
requested its member regional railroad authorities of Anoka, Hennepin and Sherburne Counties
to acquire the necessary property for the commuter rail stations and the maintenance faciliiy on
behalf of the Northstar Project (Resolutions #2004-05, #2004-06, #2004-07 and #2005-01). The
NCDA will provide grant funding for the property acquisition to the regional railroad authorities.
In order to transfer such funds to the regional railroad authorities, it is necessary to enter into
subrecipient agreements, incorporating the terms and conditions of the grant agreements.
Attached for your information is a flow chart showing the real estate acquisition process as
submitted to the FT A as a part of the Application for Final Design. As noted in the flow chart,
the necessary parcels are defined by the project, and the Northstar Project Office will work
closely with the Regional Railroad Authorities to ensure that FTA and grant requirements are
met.
Action Requested: That the Executive Committee/Capital Budget Committee recommend
that the NCDA authorize its Chair to finalize negotiations and execute
Subrecipient Agreements with Anoka County Regional Railroad
Authority, Hennepin County Regional Railroad Authority and Sherburne
County Regional Railroad Authority to provide funding for the
acquisition of the necessary property for commuter rail stations and the
maintenance facility.
Northstar Corridor Development Authority
2100 3" Avenue. Anoka. Minnesota 55303-2265 1763 J 323-5700 Fax: (763) 323-5682 www.northstartrain.org
~
..
Stage I
Stage II
Pmperty Acquisition Process
DRAFT: June28, 2005
(
Step...1.;. Define real property needed for the
Northstar Project; request the county regional rail
authority to commence the acquisition process.
S1ep...2;. Adopt resolution authorizing acquisition
by purchase or condemnation.
~ Determine if environmental review is
required, commence Phase I environmental site
assessment. Phase II environmental site
assessment will be conducted by the county
regional railroad authority as determined by
Phase I.
Ste.pA;. The acquiring county selects an
independent appraiser in accordance with its
procurement pOlicies and FTA procurement
requirements. The independent certified appraiser
develops appraisal report and submits it to the
regional rail authority.
~ Review and certify appraisal.
~ If property exceeds $3,000,000 in value,
request FTA approval for purchase of property:
S.teJlL;. NPO directs county regional railroad
authorities to proceed to acquire properties.
s.teJ:L8..:. Make an offer to the landowner.
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Executive Committee / Capital Budget Committee Agenda Item #7
NCDA Agenda Item #2e
MEMORANDUM
DATE:
July 28, 2005
TO:
Executive Committee I Capital Budget Committee
Northstar Corridor Development Authority
FROM:
Staff
RE:
Funding Agreement between the NCDA, the Hennepin County Regional Railroad
Authority and the Metropolitan Council for Light Rail Vehicle Acquisition
At its meeting on January 6, 2005, the Northstar Corridor Development Authority (NCDA)
approved the Hennepin County Regional Railroad Authority's (HCRRA's) advance payment of
local match funds for two light rail vehicles contingent upon the Federal Transit Administration's
approval. On January 12, 2005, the Metropolitan Council authorized the General Manager of
Metro Transit to exercise light rail vehicle options with Bombardier Transit Corporation no later
than January 23, 2005 for two light rail vehicles, in an amount not to exceed $6.3 million
contingent upon the FT A approving the HCRRA advance local match. The HCRRA approved
the funding for the purchase of the two light rail vehicles by the Metropolitan Council, in a total
amount not to exceed $6.3 million and contingent upon the FT A's approval, on January 13,
2005. On January 21,2005, the FTA acknowledged that the HCRRA funding commitment of up
to $6.3 million to purchase two light rail vehicles may be used as a local match, and confirmed
that rolling stock previously purchased may be considered an eligible local match towards a
future FT A grant for a planned extension to a fixed guideway system.
Based on the above information, staff recommend that the NCDA authorize the Chair to finalize
negotiations and execute the Northstar Project Funding Agreement between the NCDA,
HCRRA and Metropolitan Council providing for the Metropolitan Council to manage the
procurement of the two light rail vehicles with Bombardier Transit Corporation. The HCRRA will
transfer up to $6.3 million to the NCDA and the NCDA will forward the payment to the
Metropolitan Council.
Action ReQuested:
That the Executive Committee/Capital Budget Committee recommend
that the NCDA authorize the Chair to finalize negotiations and execute
the Northstar Project Funding Agreement with HCRRA and the
Metropolitan Council for light rail vehicle acquisition as described
above.
Northstar Corridor Development Authority
21003' Avenue. Anoka. Minnesota 55303-2265 (763) 323-5700 Fax: (763) 323-56S2 www,I1orthstartraiI1,org
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Executive Committee Agenda Item #8
NCOA Agenda Item #2f
MEMORANDUM
DATE:
July 28,2005
TO:
Executive Committee / Capital Budget Committee Members
NCDA
FROM:
Tim Yantos, Executive Director
RE:
Amendment #4 to the Richardson, Richter & Associates, Inc. Agreement
for Professional Services (Contract No. 2003-0265)
At its July 7,2005 meeting, the NCDA approved Amendment #4 to the Richardson, Richter &
Associates, Inc. (RRA) Agreement for professional services increasing the contract amount by
an additional $116,300.00.
During discussion on the action for this amendment, an NCDA member noticed an error in the
analysis and justification for the amendment to the RRA contract. The action taken by the
Board reduced RRA's request of an additional $126,300.00 by $10,000.00. After review, staff
are recommending that the RRA contract be amended to include the amount requested of
$126,300.00. The analysis and justification for the amendment to the RRA contract reads as
follows:
Original Contract Amount for 2005:
Estimated cost increase for additional RRA hours:
Receptionist/Secretarial Services at NPO:
New 2005 Amended Contract Amount:
$325,000.00
$104,374.25
$ 22,000.00
$451,300.00
$126,300.00
2005 Contract Amendment Amount Requested:
Action ReQuested: That the Executive Committee / Capital Budget Committee recommend
that the NCDA rescind the action taken at the July 7, 2005 meeting
approving Amendment #4 which increased the contract amount by
$116,300.00 and authorize the Chair to negotiate and execute
Amendment #4 to the Richardson, Richter & Associates, Inc. agreement
for professional services increasing the contract amount by an
additional $126,300.00.
Northstar Corridor Development Authority
2100 Avenue, Anoka. Minnesota 55303-2265 (63) 323-5700 Fax: (63) 323-56~2 www,noTthstartrain,org
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Executive Committee / Capital Budget Committee Agenda Item #9
NCDA Agenda Item #2g
MEMORANDUM
DATE:
July 28,2005
TO:
Northstar Corridor Development Authority
FROM:
Staff
RE:
Agreement with American Public Transportation Association (APTA) for Peer
Review Services
Peer review is required by the Federal Transit Administration as part of the final design phase of
project development. For many years, the American Public Transportation Association (APTA)
has provided peer review services. Peer reviews have been an outgrowth of APTA's Safety
Audit Program and have expanded in scope to focus on any aspect of public transportation that
may be requested by a transit system.
The concept of peer reviews is to assist the requesting agency in addressing issues through
subject matter experts within the transit industry. The experts would conduct a review of issues
and upon the conclusion of the review, the peer review panel would provide a verbal summary
of findings and recommendations to the Northstar Project Management Team. APTA will
formalize the peer review findings and recommendations into a written report.
APT A charges a $4,500 administrative fee to coordinate and facilitate the peer review and
prepare a written report and requests that the NCDA directly reimburse peer review panel
members for travel and incidental expenses. The Northstar Project Management Team
requests that the Executive Committee/Capital Budget Committee make a recommendation to
the NCDA that the NCDA authorize the Chair to negotiate and execute an agreement with
APT A for the peer review of the operations and maintenance of the commuter rail portion of the
Northstar Project. Staff are also recommending that the Executive Director be authorized to
reimburse peer review panelists for any travel or lodging expenses incurred as part of the
review process. Staff estimate that the travel and lodging costs will not exceed $20,000.00.
APTA requests that the NCDA sign the attached form thereby agreeing to indemnify and hold
harmless APTA, its officers and employees, and any peer review panelists and their respective
agencies in the conduct of their activities for claims of any kind (including attorney fees) arising
out of the provision of this peer review, except to the extent such claims arise or are caused by
the negligence or willful misconduct of APTA, its officers and employees, or peer review
panelists. Staff recommends that the Executive Committee/Capital Budget Committee
recommend that the NCDA authorize the Chair to sign the form.
Northstar Corridor Development Authority
21003. Avenue. Anoka. Minnesota 55303-2265 (763) 323-5700 Fax: (763) 323-5682 \vww.northstartrain.org
Action Requested:
That the Executive Committee/Capital Budget Committee:
a) Recommend that the NCDA authorize the Chair to finalize
negotiations and execute an agreement with APT A for
peer review panel services for an amount not to exceed
$4,500.00;
b) Authorize the Executive Director to reimburse peer review
panel participants for travel and lodging expenses (with
proper receipt/documentation) incurred as part of the
review process at an approximate total cost of $20,000.00;
and
c) Recommend that the Chair be authorized to sign the
indemnification form as noted above.
2
Executive Committee Agenda Item #11
NCDA Agenda Item #2h
CCIItW @ff ~((J)~
CITY HALL · 2015 FIRST AVE. NO. · ANOKA, MINNESOTA 55303-2270
Phone (763) 576-2700 . TTY (763) 422-0442 . www.ci.anoka.mn.us
July 25,2005
Commissioner. Duane Grandy
Northstar Con"idor Development Authority
C/O Richardson, Richter and Associates, Inc.
477 Selby Avenue
St. Paul, MN 55102
SUBJECT: REQUEST FOR NCDA LETTER OF SUPPORT
City of Anoka -- Commuter Rail Transit Village (CRTV) Parking Ramp
Dear Commissioner Grandy,
The purpose of this letter is to request a Letter of Support from NCDA for the 2009 -- 2010
CMAQ Application for construction of a parking ramp in our planned Commuter Rail Transit
Village in Anoka. The City of Anoka is planning to construct a multi-level combination parking
ramp as part of the multi-modal transit hub in our commuter rail transit village. As such, we will
work closely with the Northstar Corridor Development Authority (NCDA) to coordinate and
assure consistency with NCDA plans.
If you have any questions about this information or about our request, please contact Carolyn
Braun, Planning Director, at 763-576-2722 or via email atcbraun@ci.anoka.mn.us.
Thank you for your consideration of our request.
Sincerely,
~
Carolyn un, AICP
Planning Director
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in Cooperation with the
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155 Fifth Avenue South
Suite 755
Minneapolis, MN 55401
612-215-8200
The Northstar Corridor Rail Project
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Monthly Report
July 18, 2005
-2-
Northstar Corridor Rail Project
I. Introduction
The proposed Northstar Corridor Rail Project (Project) will provide commuter
rail service along a 40-mile corridor from Downtown Minneapolis to Big Lake,
Minnesota parallel to Trunk Highways 47 and 10. It will use existing rail
tracks owned by the Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railway Company (BNSF)
and include 6 stations. The commuter line is expected to carry 5,600
passengers per day by the year 2025. The rail line will have inter-modal
connections to bus transit and to the Hiawatha Light Rail Transit (LRT) line.
The Northstar connection to LRT consists of a four-block extension on the
north end of the Hiawatha LRT to reach the Downtown Minneapolis commuter
rail station. With the exception of the Downtown Minneapolis station, all of
the stations will have park and ride facilities.
The Minnesota Department of Transportation (Mn/DOT), the grantee, is
working closely with its partners, the Northstar Corridor Development
Authority (NCDA) and the Metropolitan Council, to deliver the Northstar
Project. The Northstar Project Office (NPO) was established with staff from
each partnering agency to oversee the implementation of the Project.
Since the last written report to the Federal Transit Administration (FTA), dated
June 2005, the following occurred and are described in this report:
· NPO submitted draft materials to FTA to seek a "Recommended"
rating and approval for entry into final design
· Requested an increase in property value thresholds for local decisions
on property acquisition
· Continued to meet with station city staff regarding building codes and
permit process
· Moved Big Lake station across CR 43
· Held third coordination meeting on Twins baseball stadium
· FT A conducted a procurement system review
· Executed the BNSF design agreement
· Continued negotiations with the firm selected for risk management
services
· Land use planning and developments advanced in each commuter rail
station area
· Held coordination meeting with Federal Railroad Administration
· Continued Northstar public information efforts
· Scheduled interviews for Deputy Director of Design position
II. Project Milestones
The following table lists the major milestones in the development and ongoing
implementation of the Northstar project.
Monthly Report
July 18, 2005
-3-
Northstar Corridor Rail Project
Northstar Pro"ect Milestones
Date Activit
March 2000 Major Investment Study completed-Commuter rail
recommended
FT A a roved ent into Prelimina En ineerin
Draft Environmental 1m act Statement DEIS ublished
Su lementallnformation to the DEIS ublished
Final Environmental 1m act Statement ublished
FT A issued Record of Decision
Minnesota Legislature commits $37,5 million in bonding for
Northstar
Se tember 2005 FT A a roves ent into Final Desi n
May 2006 Minnesota Legislature commits remaining state funding for
Northstar
FT A issues Letter of No Pre'udice enablin utilit relocation
FT A enters into Full Fundin Grant A reement for Northstar
Construction be ins
Revenue service be ins
June 2000
October 2000
Janua 2001
March 2002
December 2002
April 2005
Jul 2006
October 2006
S rin 2007
Earl 2009
III. Project Finances
Project Budget
The following table lists the existing Northstar Project budget by FT A
Standard Cost Category.
Northstar Proiect BudQet
No. CateQorv Amount (YOE $)
10 Guideway & Track Elements $67,871,900
20 Stations, Stops, Terminals, Intermodal $20,665,500
30 Support Facilities: Yards, Shops, Admin. Bldgs $21,829,500
40 Sitework & Special Conditions $17,539,000
50 Systems $7,568,700
Construction Subtotal (Categories 10-50) $135,474,600
60 ROW, Land, Existing Improvements $8,497,100
70 Vehicles $76,604,300
80 Professional Services $35,410,300
90 Unallocated Contingency $7,985,100
Subtotal (Categories 10-90) $263,971,400
100 Finance Charqes $1,258,100
c=!Total Project Cost
Funding Sources
$265,229,5001
The following table summarizes the sources of funding to date for the
Northstar Project. The NCDA member counties have passed resolutions
Monthly Report
July 18, 2005
-4-
Northstar Corridor Rail Project
committing their full share of the Northstar Project. Their commitment to date
totals approximately $44 million or $26 million in addition to that shown below.
Northstar Proiect Fundinc Sources to Date
Source Federal State Met Council NCDA
1998 Twin Cities Transitway Projects $ 350,000 $ 287,562
Section 5309 (Grant MN-03-0056)
1999 STP Grant Section 5307 (MN-90 $ 3,999,981 $ 1,000,000
X110)
1999 STP Grant Section 5307 (MN-90 $ 2,000,000 $ 500,000
X138)
2000 CMAQ Grant Section 5307 $ 960,000 $ 69,885 $ 170,11 !:
(Amendment to MN-90-X138)
2000 & 2001 Twin Cities Transitway $ 4,346,669 $ 1,086,667
Projects Section 5309 (MN-03-0088)
2002 New Starts Section 5309 (MN- $ 9,900,131 $ 2,475,033
03-0111)
NCDA -- Advanced & Final DesiQn $ 10,000,000
NCDA (Hennepin County) -- LRV $ 6,300,000
Procurement
2003 New Starts Section 5309 (no $ 4,917,912
grant yet)
2004 New Starts Section 5309 (no $ 5,659,028
grant yet)
2005 New Starts Section 5309 (no $ 4,960,000
Igrant vet)
2005 Minnesota Bonding $ 37,500,000
Total $ 37,093,721 $ 39,069,885 $ 2,475,033 $ 17,844,344
The NCDA member counties have passed resolutions committing their full share of the Northstar project. Their
commitment to date totals approximately $44 million or about $26 million more than the $17.8 million shown above.
Project Obligations
The following table lists the contracts and obligations that have been incurred
by the Northstar project, including the amount expended to date. All funds
expensed to date have been for professional services.
Norlhstar Project Obligations and Expenses
Purpose Contractor ObliQated EXDended Balance
Total throuoh Preliminarv Enoineering $ 8,474,650.71 $ 8,474,650.71 $
Advanced Preliminary Engineering Kimley Horn & Assoc $ 428,900.00 $ 341 ,522.64 $ 87,377.36
Proiect Manaoement Kenneth Stevens (2004) $ 150,000.00 $ 146,491.92 $ 3,508.08
Project Management Kenneth Stevens (2005\ $ 150,000.00 $ 28,127.81 $ 121,872.19
Proiect Manaoement Richardson, Richter & Associates (2004) $ 322,000.00 $ 308,788.66 $ 13,211.34
Proiect Manaoement Richardson, Richter & Associates (2005) $ 347,000.00 $ $ 347,000.00
Proiect Manaaement Loch & Associates $ 50,000.00 $ 2,123.05 $ 47,876.95
Proiect Manaaement Mn/DOT under MN-03-0088) $ 248,569.00 $ 242,261.47 $ 6,307.53
Project Management Mn/DOT (under MN-03-0111) $ 320,000.00 $ 3,012.02 $ 316,987.98
Host Railroad Neootiations Greene-Espel (2004) $ 100,000.00 $ 45,172.94 $ 54,827.06
Host Railroad Neootiations Greene-Esoel (2005) $ 300,000.00 $ $ 300,000.00
Tech Succort for Railroad Negotiations Mainline Management $ 158,000.00 $ 79,297.14 $ 78,702.86
Public Information Northwoods Advertising $ 245,285.00 $ - $ 245,285.00
Station and Maintenance Facility
Advanced & Final Desion Kimley Horn & Assoc $ 4,173,632.00 $ 927,776.35 $ 3,245,855.65
LRT Advanced & Final Design &
Commuter Rail Oversight L TK Engineerina $ 3,098,927.00 $ 389,746.52 $ 2.709,180.48
Lioht Rail Vehicle Procurement Bombardier $ 6,300,000.00 $ $ 6.300.000.00
Advanced & Final Design 01 Track &
Sianallmorovements BNSF $ 1,112,188.00 $ $ 1,112.188.00
Grand Total $ 25,979,151.71 $ 10,988.971.23 $ 13,877,992.48
Based on invoices received by Mn/DOT to date.
Monthly Report
July 18, 2005
-5-
Northstar Corridor Rail Project
IV. New Starts Criteria and Request to Enter Final Design
The last monthly report noted that FT A suggested and Northstar staff agreed
that the existing travel demand model, which was carefully vetted by FT A,
would be used for the current New Starts submittal. Northstar checked on-
board surveys conducted in Dallas to validate the non-work trips included
within the existing forecast. A survey in Seattle was also reviewed but didn't
offer sufficient detail to be useful. Northstar staff will also continue to work
with the Twin Cities Region and FT A to resolve the outstanding issues and
inconsistencies with the new forecast model.
This decision enabled Northstar staff to compile the remaining documents
needed to request a re-rating and approval to enter final design. A matrix
summarizing all the documents associated with that request follows:
Matrix of Documents for Re-Rating and Entry into Final Design
Deliverable Status
NEPA
DEIS Approved October 2000
Supplement to DEIS Approved January 2001
FEIS Approved March 2002
Record of Decision Issued December 2002
Final Design Application
Draft FD Application Cover Letter E-mailed 07/11/2005, Submitted 07/14/2005
Proiect Reports
Project Management Plan Submitted 03/31/2005
Value Engineering Report Submitted OS/24/2005. PMOC submitted
favorable comments to FT A 06/30/2005.
Financial Plan Submitted 07/14/2005
Request to Enter Final Design- Submitted 07/14/2005
Includes make the case narrative,
project summary, project schedule,
New Starts criteria, travel forecasts,
Summit results, cost estimates
Qualitv Plan E-mailed 07/11/2005, Submitted 07/14/2005
Real Estate Plan E-mailed 07/11/2005, Submitted 07/14/2005
Commuter Rail Fleet Management E-mailed 07/11/2005, Submitted 07/14/2005
Plan
Cover Letter and Response to E-mailed 07/11/2005, Submitted 07/14/2005
FTA's Request for Information on
Level Boarding Issues
Before and After Study Plan E-mailed 07/11/2005, Submitted 07/14/2005
Project Agreements
Inter-agency Cooperation Submitted 06/30/2005
Agreement-Mn/DOT, Metro
Transit, NCDA
BNSF Design Agreement E-mailed 07/11/2005, Submitted 07/14/2005
Other
Letter requesting FT A to raise value Submitted 07/14/2005
thresholds for local property
acquisition decisions
NPO staff is traveled to Chicago to meet with FTA Region V staff on July 14.
Staff from the regional office of the Federal Railroad Administration also
Monthly Report -6- Northstar Corridor Rail Project
July 18, 2005
attended as well as existing Project Management Oversight Consultant
(PMOC) staff from Hill International and future PMOC staff from Jacobs.
They discussed the process for achieving a new project rating and gaining
FTA approval to enter final design.
NPO staff provided the following draft schedule for the process of gaining
approval to enter final design. Project sponsors recognize this is an
aggressive schedule and described the importance of providing a solid cost
estimate to the 2006 Minnesota Legislature for deliberation about the second
final state commitment of capital funds for the Project.
Draft Schedule for Northstar Ent into Final Desi n
Com letion
07/14/2005
07/29/2005
07/29/2005
07/29/2005
08/05/2005
08/19/2005
09/23/2005
FT A staff confirmed that this is a highly aggressive schedule, stating the risk
assessment exercise must be completed prior to entry into final design, and
will likely lengthen this schedule. The risk assessment takes approximately
90 days and requires a detailed cost estimate and schedule are available
prior to starting.
Level boarding was discussed at the July 14 meeting. The NPO staff
described BNSF's clearance requirements and the conclusion that mini-high
block platforms appear to be a logical solution to providing level boarding for
disabled passengers. FT A will review the Project data submitted in response
to FT A's level boarding questions.
FT A and Project staff also discussed environmental documentation of project
changes. FTA's Planning and Environment Office in Washington requested a
letter summarizing the Project's changes so that FT A can determine if the
associated environmental documentation and record of decision amendment
must be complete before approval could be granted to enter final design.
As the July 14 meeting ended, the following was noted. The PMOC will begin
their evaluation of the Project's technical capacity. FT A will schedule reviews
of the other material submitted in this draft request to enter final design. FT A
will contact the PMOC and project staff to schedule the risk assessment.
Monthly Report
July 18, 2005
-7-
Northstar Corridor Rail Project
V. Property Acquisition
The Project developed a stand-alone Real Estate Plan and included it in the
Northstar Corridor Rail Project New Starts Criteria submitted on July 14,
2005. This plan supplements the information in Chapter 10 of the Project
Management Plan. It contains a detailed description of the Project's property
acquisition process and the roles and responsibilities of the participating
counties and Mn/DOT personnel. In addition, it contains a Parcel Description
that categorizes the number of parcels in defined value ranges and a Parcel
Acquisition Schedule that provides estimated/actual dates for completing
each step of the process. Both items will be maintained and updated
throughout the property acquisition process to ensure property rights are
acquired in the time-frame necessary for construction and operations, and are
included in this monthly report.
In a letter to FTA, the NPO requested an increase in the property value
thresholds for local decisions in the property acquisition process. Specifically,
Mn/DOT requested an increase in the threshold from $250,000 to $3,000,000
for when FTA must give concurrence prior to the Grantee (Mn/DOT) making
an offer. In addition, Mn/DOT requested that FTA increase the threshold from
$50,000 to $100,000 or 20%, whichever is higher, for when FTA prior
concurrence is necessary on negotiated administrative settlements.
Monthly Report
July 18, 2005
-8-
Northstar Corridor Rail Project
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VI. Advanced Design
Advanced design is underway, with the assistance of two teams of consultants.
A team led by Kimley Horn and Associates (KHA) is responsible for the six
commuter rail stations and the maintenance facility including the central control
facility. A team led by L TK Engineering (LTK) is responsible for the LRT
Connection and providing technical support for KHA's work on the commuter rail
stations and maintenance facility. The entire project design team meets on a
weekly basis.
Issues surrounding the location of the Big Lake station have been resolved. With
the support of the City of Big Lake, the maintenance facility and station site will
both be located on the south side of the BNSF tracks. This location fits well with
the future use of the area, ties the station and maintenance facility together, and
avoids a rail crossing of county road 43. The NCDA Board approved this change
at its July 7,2005 meeting.
Project staff and consultants are evaluating several major issues including
Central Control Communication technology and location; Inter-modal station
coordination with prospective developers and uses; and level boarding in
compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Project staff continue to
meet with station city staff regarding building codes and permit processes to
ensure full understanding of expectations and plans.
Project staff and consultants meet bi-weekly with the City of Minneapolis on
design issues of the LRT Connection and inter-modal station. Periodic meetings
are also held with the State Historic Preservation Office and Minneapolis
Heritage Preservation Commission to get their input and concurrence on the
proposed plans because of the adjacent Warehouse Historic District. Project
staff will continue to work with these organizations to fulfill the programmatic
agreement regarding cultural resources that was included in the Project's Record
of Decision.
BNSF and the NPO executed a Rail Passenger Capital Improvements
Engineering Agreement and the BNSF retained engineering consultants who will
perform advanced and final design on a list of mutually agreed improvements to
BNSF's railway in the Northstar Corridor. Ongoing negotiations continue to
finalize construction and operations agreements between NPO and the BNSF.
VII. Twins Baseball Stadium Coordination
The Minnesota Twins and Hennepin County have agreed to a funding plan for a
new baseball stadium in downtown Minneapolis. The stadium site sits adjacent
to the inter-modal station connecting Northstar commuter rail and the Hiawatha
LRT Connection. The plan for the $478 million facility will include private funding
from Twins owner Carl Pohlad and public money from the county in the form of a
0.15% sales tax. The Minnesota Legislature must approve any county invoking a
sales tax. The Legislature did not do during the regular 2005 session nor in the
Monthly Report
July 18, 2005
-13-
Northstar Corridor Rail Project
special session that ended July 13. Governor Pawlenty may call for a special
session to address stadiums and other issues this fall.
Chuck Ballentine, of NCDA member Hennepin County, chaired a third discussion
at the Northstar Project Office on June 22 with staff from HOK Architects, Twins
Management, Hennepin County, and the Northstar Project Office. Discussion
focused on areas of potential space conflicts adjacent to the commuter rail and
light rail platforms.
The property owners of the Twins ballpark site have teamed with Hines
developers and announced plans for a major transit oriented development either
with or without the ballpark. Stated plans include 1,000 residential units with a
ballpark or a mixed-use development including 3,000 residential units without a
ballpark. The property owners cite the inter-modal access afforded by Northstar
and Hiawatha as key elements in their development plans. Staff continue to
meet with both ballpark designers and the developers.
VIII. Procurement System Review
The FT A conducted a procurement system review of Mn/DOT and the
Metropolitan Council, including the Northstar and Hiawatha Projects. Staff from
Leon Sneed and Associates arrived June 6 and departed June 24. The review
team also visited Anoka County to interview NCDA procurement personnel and
view NCDA procured contracts.
At the exit conference the review team described shortcomings they found in the
overall procurement processes of each organization as well as shortcomings
within specific contract files. They noted that as the projects progressed and the
agencies learned more about the FT A's requirements, the shortcomings were
reduced. The review team will complete their final report by July 26 and the
organizations will have an opportunity to respond.
IX. BNSF Negotiations
The NCDA and BNSF have fully executed the Rail Passenger Capital
Improvements Agreement and Amendment #1. The Agreement specifies the
capacity improvements that will undergo advanced and final design. The
amendment added funding to the contract amount to pay for the engineering of
certain improvements that were included in the scope but had not yet been fully
negotiated with BNSF's engineering consultant. BNSF issued a request for
proposals for a consultant to perform the work, consistent with federal
procurement requirements. BNSF has assigned a project manager to oversee
the work, which should commence by mid-July. PMT member Ken Stevens will
act as liaison with the railroad on the engineering activities. Northstar's lead
negotiator, Cliff Greene of the Greene Espellaw firm, has identified priorities for
the next phase of negotiations, including liability and risk allocation, tax
consequences of the transaction for BNSF, and options for structuring the
operating agreement. The anticipated time frame for the completion of the
Monthly Report -14- Northstar Corridor Rail Project
July 18, 2005
negotiations of the construction and operating agreements coincides with the
completion of final design.
X. Risk Management
On April 18, 2005, the NCDA issued an RFP for Broker/Insurance Consulting
Services for the Northstar Commuter Rail Project. The services requested will
assist the project in addressing the risks arising out of the construction and
operations of the Northstar commuter rail project. At its June 2 meeting, the
NCDA Board approved the selection of Marsh USA, Inc. and authorized staff to
begin contract negotiations with the selected firm. Those negotiations are still
underway. It is anticipated that a contract will be considered by the NCDA at its
August 4 meeting.
Formation of the Northstar Risk Management Advisory Committee is underway.
The core group will consist of the risk managers from the State of Minnesota
Department of Administration, the Metropolitan Council, Anoka County and
Hennepin County, as well as an attorney from the Anoka County Attorney's
Office. The Committee will meet monthly and will advise the Project on risk
management issues arising out of the construction and operations of Northstar.
XI. Land Use
Template 11 of the Northstar Corridor Rail Project New Starts Criteria submitted
on July 14, 2005 provides a comprehensive report on land use polices, proposals
and projects in the Northstar Corridor. In summary, near every station there are
locations that are ripe for development at densities and configurations consistent
with transit oriented development principles. In addition, there are several
attractive redevelopment opportunities along the line. Although at different points
in the planning process, each municipality is committed to promoting
development, infill development, and/or redevelopment around the stations,
many of which are located in major employment centers. Below are highlights of
development initiatives around each Northstar station.
Inter-modal Station
Master Plans adopted by Hennepin County and the City of Minneapolis
respectively include plans for mixed-use development, including high-density
residential, within a half-mile of the Downtown Minneapolis station. Both entities
also support a proposal for a Minnesota Twins ballpark at the Downtown Station
site. Appendix 2 includes a recent article on Twinsville that appeared in the
Minneapolis Star Tribune. Visit www.mntwinsville.com for plans and drawings
related to the development. Hennepin County is conducting an Inter-modal Study
to develop transit station design concepts in downtown Minneapolis that preserve
long-term opportunities to accommodate expanded commuter rail and long-
distance rail and ensure convenient inter-modal connections to light rail and
buses. A summary of the study is included in Appendix 2.
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July 18, 2005
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Northstar Corridor Rail Project
Fridley Station
The City of Fridley is considering a plan for redevelopment of the 11-acre parcel
adjacent to the station. Redevelopment options are included on pages 84 - 91 in
the Study on Housing Opportunities Along the Northstar Corridor (Appendix 7).
In addition, the Fridley Housing and Redevelopment Authority (HRA) released a
Request for Qualifications to solicit qualifications from private developers for the
Islands of Peace Redevelopment Project. The potential redevelopment area
consists of thirteen privately held parcels and City land comprising approximately
12 acres. The goal of this project is to convert an area of dilapidated apartment
buildings into a viable residential development. The Fridley HRA envisions a
mixed-use, mixed-income, mixed-housing type development, which is connected
by trail to the Northstar commuter rail station site. Excerpts from this RFQ are
included in Appendix 3.
Anoka Station
The City of Anoka adopted an approach for developing the North Central
Business District in March 2003 and a Development and Redevelopment
Standards, Guidelines and Incentives Manual for developers in October 2003.
The City of Anoka completed the Commuter Rail Transit Village (CRTV) Plan in
March of 2004. The City updated and refined the CRTV Master Plan site plan in
spring 2005. Redevelopment options considered by the city are included on
pages 69 - 77 in the Study on Housing Opportunities Along the Northstar
Corridor (Appendix 1). See Appendix 5 for a copy of the most recent CRTV
Master Plan and a list of steps the City of Anoka has taken to acquire land for the
CRTV. Appendix 4 also includes a copy of a resolution adopted by the City of
Anoka that expresses their intent to pursue a joint agreement with the Northstar
Corridor Development Authority concerning the development of the Anoka
station.
Coon Rapids
The City of Coon Rapids is considering a plan for redevelopment of the 23 acre
parcel adjacent to the station. Redevelopment options are included on pages 78
- 84 in the Study on Housing Opportunities Along the Northstar Corridor
(Appendix 1). A private developer has recently proposed a mix-used
development for this site that includes medium and high density residential units,
senior housing and retail/office space (Appendix 4).
Elk River
The City of Elk River amended its comprehensive plan to change the land use
designation near the station from light industrial and low density residential to
community commercial and medium density residential and approved final plats
for the residential component of the Elk River Station development. Appendix 6
includes the Elk River Station master plan, pictures of the townhomes
constructed by Centex as part of the Elk River Station, and a fax from Centex
that summarizes the status of town home sale closings.
Big Lake
Big Lake amended its comprehensive plan to include medium and high-density
residential development adjacent to the station. On June 8, 2005, the City of Big
Lake adopted a resolution stating its support for the Northstar Commuter Rail
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July 18, 2005
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Project and relocation of the park-and-ride lot (Appendix 7). The City of Big Lake
has expressed interest in partnering with the NCDA to explore options for trans1t
oriented development around the new station location.
XII. Federal Railroad Administration Coordination
On June 30,2005 NPO staff met with Paul Comstock, from the local office of the
Federal Railroad Administration (FRA). Mr. Comstock confirmed that FRA has
the oversight role for commuter rail operations on BNSF track. He-also
confirmed that BNSF adopted and adheres to the General Code of Operating
Rules (GCOR). FRA staff will review design submittals of track & signals and
stations at the 60%, 90%, and 100% completion levels. FRA staff will also
review passenger equipment specifications. Mr. Comstock asked NPO staff to
invite Mr. Laurance Hasvold, FRA's Regional Administrator to an upcoming
meeting with FT A staff in Chicago to better familiarize him with the project.
XIII. Community Involvement
The following public meetings, events, presentations and mailings have occurred
since the June 2005 Northstar report:
Date(s)
June 2005
June 2005
June 1,2005
June 2005
June 28,2005
July 7,2005
July 14-17, 2005
Monthly Report
July 18, 2005
Audience
A supporter newsletter went to approximately 12,000
households and focused on the state bonding bill, FTA
funding, the Texas Transportation Institute's 2005
Urban Mobility Report, and commuter rail news around
the country.
A mailing went to 2,500 opinion leaders around the
state to inform them of the 2005 legislature's action for
Northstar and the next steps.
Real Estate Journal did an extensive article on the
project.
The Twin Cities Business Monthly started working on
their "Best of Business" issue for September, which will
include Northstar Commuter Rail as a key business
asset.
Printed materials were sent to a Mankato topics group
for a July 5 meeting.
NCDA Board Meeting, Anoka
Sherburne County Fair
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Northstar Corridor Rail Project
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XIV. Project St~ffing
Metro Transit scheduled interviews of candidates for the vacant Deputy Director
of Design position within the Northstar Project Office on July 20 and 22, 2005.
The position has been filled on an interim basis by a combination of Jon Olson,
the Anoka County Public Services Division Manager and registered engineer,
and Ken Stevens, a long time consultant to the Northstar Corridor Development
Authority and former director of the Hennepin County Regional Railroad
Authority.
The Mn/DOT employees working on Northstar were considered essential and
therefore continued working during the partial shut-down of Minnesota state
government operations that lasted from July 1 to 9, 2005. State operations
resumed on July 11 after legislative leaders and Governor Pawlenty agreed on a
plan to continue state services. The full legislature voted to accept the proposal
on July 13, so full government operations are restored through June 30,2007.
XV. Next Steps
Project staff will work with FT A to revise material and provide information as
needed for FT A to change the project's rating from "Not Recommended" to
"Recommended" and to approve entry into the final design phase. Project staff
will communicate with FTA Region V and headquarters staff and PMOC
throughout the review process to ensure timely project responses and progress.
FTA is scheduling the PMOC for the risk assessment. The PMOC is also
beginning their evaluation of the Project's technical capacity. FTA is scheduling
reviews of other material from the draft request to enter final design.
Project staff keeps in contact with station cities and counties on design issues. In
addition, the staff will continue to work with the City of Minneapolis and Hennepin
County on issues surrounding the inter-modal station, including the proposed
Minnesota Twins stadium. The project takes advantage of public information
opportunities, giving presentations to civic groups and business organizations.
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July 18, 2005
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Northstar Corridor Rail Project