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6.9. SR 06-18-2007 REQUEST FOR ACTION To Ci Council Agenda Section Communi Develo ment Item Description Resolution Concurring with the Local Advisory Committee's Recommended Alternatives for TH169 Meeting Date une 18, 2007 Administrator Action Requested Consider adoption of attached Resolution concurring with the Local Advisory Committee (LAC) recommendation for selected alternatives on TH 169. Background/Discussion MnDOT and their consultant, SRF Group, presented their preliminary concepts for TH 169 to the elected officials on May 7, 2007. On Thursday, May 17, Z007, they held six focused group meetings during the day and a public open house in the evening. As the City Council will recall, the only intersection that had real options for the type of interchange to be analyzed was Main Street at TH 169. The two options presented were a folded diamond with a collector-distributor road (Concept B.CZ.) and a single point interchange with a braided ramp (B.C3.). The vast majority of those in attendance at the focused group meetings and the open house favored B.CZ., the folded diamond and collector-distributor road. The reasons for this preference varied by group. Some of the specific comments were as follows: . Guardian Angels preferred B.CZ. as they felt their residents would find it easier to cross the highway to access Wal-Mart and other commercial businesses. . Great River Energy preferred B.CZ. as it provides better access to their property, once their access on TH 169 is removed. . The Elk River Citizens' Group preferred B.C2. because they felt it provided a better opportunity for access and redevelopment of the northeast quadrant of the intersection. . The Chamber of Commerce meeting - comments were received from representatives of the Kentucky Fried Chicken and other business owners in the area that they preferred B.CZ. as they felt it provided a better link from Main Street to the commercial strip between 5'h Street and Elk Hills Drive. . The only negative comment received was from a woman from California who is an investor in the Advanced Auto Parts Store which would likely be taken by Concept B.CZ. Craig Robinson, the MnDOT Project Manger for the TH 169 Corridor, will be in attendance at this evening's Council meeting to answer any questions regarding the various concepts. Resolution - TH t 69 Page 2 Financial Impact There is no financial impacr ro the action being requested this evening. Attachments . Resolution No. 07-_ Indicating Support for the Local Advisory Conunittee's Recommended Alternatives for TH 169 . Concepts for interchanges along TH 169 . Summary of preliminary evaluation, June 4, 2007 . Summary of focused group meetings, Thursday, May 17, 2007 . Summary of meetings and public comments, Thursday, May 17, 2007 Action Motion by_ Second by _ Vote Follow Up S:\EngineerImprovProj\2007 Improvement Projects\lH 169 Study\06 1807 CC memo. doc RESOLUTION NO. 07-_ A RESOLUTION FOR THE CITY OF ELK RIVER A RESOLUTION INDICATING SUPPORT FOR THE LOCAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE'S RECOMMENDED ALTERNATIVES FOR TH 169 WHEREAS, Highway 169 is an important north-south arterial route in central Minnesota, connecting Minnesota's central lakes region with the greater Twin Cities metropolitan area and the growing trade centers of Elk River, Zimmerman, and Princeton; and, WHEREAS, Transportation improvements are needed along the corridor to address growing transportation demands as well as provide for system linkages, and respond to capacity, operations, and safety needs; and, WHEREAS, the City of Elk River has been actively involved in a comprehensive transportation study to identify frontage road and interchange alternatives to address the transportation needs along the portion of the corridor in the City of Elk River and the surrounding area including the City of Zimmerman, and Livonia and Baldwin Townships. As part of this study, two alternative concept designs were identified for a future Highway 169/221st Avenue interchange in the City of Elk River, two alternatives were identified for the Jackson/193rd/197th Avenue interchange with Highway 169, three alternatives were identified for the Main/School Street interchange with Highway 169, and three alternatives were identified for the southerly system interchange at the junction of Highway 169/10/101; and WHEREAS, after receiving public and agency input as well as technical evaluations on alternatives for above referenced areas, the project's Local Advisory Committee (LAC) has recommended that Alternative E (standard diamond interchange) be identified as the preferred alternative for the Highway 169/221st Avenue interchange, that Alternative D2 be identified as the preferred alternative for the Jackson/193rd/197th Avenue area with Highway 169, that a modified BC2 Alternative (the collector-distributor alternative with a folded diamond interchange at Main Street and a compressed full-access interchange to the collector-distributor system at School Stteet) be identified as the preferred alternative for the Main/School Street interchange with Highway 169, and that Alternative A3 (two-level interchange with loops) be the preferred alternative for southerly system interchange at the junction of Highway 169/10/101 (see attachments); and WHEREAS, the Minnesota Department of Transportation (Mn/D01) is asking for the City of Elk River to confirm their support of this recommendation so that additional design and environmental documentation can proceed on the preferred alternative. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT HEREBY RESOLVED THAT THE CITY OF ELK RIVER, MINNESOTA: 1. Supports the LACs recommencbtion of Alternative E interchange) as the preferred alternative for further documentation phase of the project. 2. Supports the LAC recommendation of Alternative D2 (Jackson/193rd/197th Avenue interchange with Highway 169) as the preferred alternative for further study in the environmental documentation phase of the project. 3. Supports the LAC recommendation of Alternative BC2 (Main/School Street interchange with Highway 169) as the preferred alternative for further study in the environmental documentation phase of the project. 4. Supports the LAC recommendation of Alternative A3 (southerly system interchange at the junction of Highway 169/10/101) as the preferred alternative for further study in the environmental documentation phase of the project. 5. Acknowledges that this resolution of support indicates the City of Elk River's preference for the alternative based on the technical information provided to-cbte, and that this preference does not prohibit the City of Elk River from commenting on future design reftnements and/ or the environmental documentation for the project as the project proceeds through the process. (Highway study in 169/221st Avenue the environmental 6. Acknowledges that the resolution of support does not restrict the City's rights and participation in the Municipal Consent process. Passed and adopted by the City Council of the City of Elk River this 18th day of June, 2007. Stephanie Klinzing, Mayor ATTEST: Tina Allard, City Clerk S:\EngineerlmprovProj\2JYJ7 Improvement Projects\TH 169 Study\PrcfAlt Resolution 06 07 09.doc A3 Legend Mainline Highway (Reconstructed) _ On/Off Ramps (Reconstructed) _ Bridge (Existing or New) m ell) (",_"...(;........1.. ~"o,.".;...'" Hiahway 169 Preliminan Desi~ and Emir...mental Documentation . I Minnesoxa [kpattmtnl O(~!a:~z.: Be2 ~ Main-School Street Collector-Distributor Road Concept 5/0 I /07 rw (lj) n............c;..u..... ~~.,...."" H.......' 169 Preliminary Desi....nd EnYiroomental Documentation . I Elk River Mmn~S<.)(a l>q>arlllll:'ttl ofTrilll.'opor1.llklll BC3 ~ 5/01107 . <lj) (",-.......G........... ?~......,.. Hjqhway 169 Preliminary Desi... and Environmental Documentation . I Elk River Mmnewla Ikparln~nl of Transpnrt.lIion 02 ~ ell) ('._"...(;......,a... 'c.~ Hi.....' 169 Prelimina" Desl.., .nd En.irCll'lmental Documentation . I Elk River MinD('!.ol.;l. DeparlrfC'nl ofTrampon.l1ion E1 i ~ "f~~ m <(I' ,,_.. &-... ''''..~ r-:- '1f - h ~~~~ - ~: ~f-9\ /' ,,' ., ,t\ \\ ~1 f~ I : 'f:....t '\,"~ r f 1: t i"t \: . p L' \ ,. '~ II I n \ t ~~. I J , r, .' " ~ t ' ..~~.. j . II < . '.. 1" f ~ Jl~:i ." , ~1..... .J ~~ /1 (I~ ) :"~r=: ~,..... "'.... a,..,.. .. . , ~.".'. b~" ~., pc'Ii" .'~" ..~. ,/I.,..". . ". J ''''~' ~ . *" Jf .. .,. I.: ri 'f', I . ~'-- i" ......Ic::-:: .:=;:; .r ( .. Ji I " I II 221 st Avenue I. New Alignlnent ~~ Diatnond Interchange " II 2/20107 11 11 .... '..:' ~ J~ f&' ~ II f:.: ~ t "* '. <.'" , '" '., II," p,:",:: ... , · ' 4, ~ . .t;tfl ~ "'<'1 Legend __ Mainline TH 169 (Reconstructed) - On/Off Ramps (New) - Two-Way Local Road (New/Reconstructed) I~" ~~Jll Bridge (New) @ Full Access Intersection (Control to be decided) HiQlrway 169 Preliminan Deli.., and Emironmental Documentation . I Elk River Mlnl\('~otil Dcpannrnl orTran.~port.ulOll HIGHWAY 169 PRELIMINARY DESIGN AND ENVIRONMENTAL DOCUMENTATION- ELK RIVER AREA SUMMARY OF PRELIMINARY EVALUATION June 4, 2007 For the purposes of developing access alternatives and performing a preliminary evaluation of impacts, the design team divided the Elk River area into two sub-areas: North of County Highway 33 sub-area and the South of County Highway 33 sub-area. Improvements grouped into the sub-areas, build alternatives considered, and results from the preliminary evaluation are discussed below. NORTH OF COUNTY HIGHWAY 33 SUB-AREA A. Improvements Grouped into Sub-Area . Frontage Road System from County Highway 25/19 to County Highway 33 237th Avenue (County Road 74) / 239th Avenue Overpass 221 st Avenue / Realigned County Road 121 Interchange . . B. Build Alternatives Considered Frontage Road System The design team developed alignments for the frontage and backage road system that were the same in most areas except where they tied into the specific interchange concept. The proposed alignments replaced all at- grade access to Highway 169. A continuous frontage road system is proposed on the east side of Highway 169 from County Highway 25/19 to County Highway 33. On the west side of Highway 169, the frontage road system will not cross the existing and planned land fill areas south of 237th Avenue and north of221st Avenue. The alignments of the frontage roads are approximate only - details will be developed as development occurs in the area. 239th Avenue (County Road 74) / 237th Avenue Overpass The design team considered two possible alignments for the 239th and 237th overpass. The northerly alignment would provide an overpass at 239th Avenue and connect to the proposed frontage road on the east side of Highway 169. The southerly alignment would provide an overpass at 237th A venue. Both alternatives remove existing intersections on Highway 169, provide continuous roadway connections between 239th and 237th Avenues, and connect to the frontage road system - providing access to Highway 169 at the 221st interchange to the south and/or the County Highway 25 / ] 9 interchange to the north. The northerly overpass alignment at 239th Avenue (Alternative F) was determined to have the least overall impacts of the two alternatives, and was therefore selected by the design team and the Local Advisory Committee as the Preferred Alternative. 221st Avenue / Realigned County Road 121 Interchange The proposed 22] st Avenue / Realigned County Road] 21 interchange provides a bridge under Highway 169 as well as full access to/from Highway 169. The original diamond interchange alignment provided an interchange at the same location of the existing 221 st Avenue intersection with Highway 169. The design team realigned 221 st A venue to the south in order to avoid impacts to the landfill and wetlands located in the northeast and northwest quadrants of the proposed interchange, respectively. This new alignment (Alternative E) extends 221st Avenue to the east to connect with County Road 121, and includes connections to frontage roads east and west of Highway 169. Based on the preliminary analysis, each alternative may require the relocation ofhome(s) in either the northeast or southeast quadrant of the interchange. However, Alternative E provides the best frontage road connectivity, avoids impacts to the existing wetlands, and avoids the possibility of impacts to the landfill. For these reasons, the design tearn and the Local Advisory Committee recommends Alternative E as the Preferred Alternative. SUMMARY OF PRELIMINARY EVALUATION ELK RIVER HIGHWAY 169 PRELIMINARY DESIGN AND ENVIRONMENTAL DOCUMENTATION June 4, 2007 SOUTH OF COUNTY HIGHWAY 33 SUB-AREA A. Improvements Grouped into Sub-Area . Jackson / I 93rd / 197th Avenue Area Main / School Street Area Highway 10 / 10 I / 169 Interchange . . B. Build Alternatives Considered Jackson / 193rd / 197th Avenue The design team considered two main build alternatives for the Jackson / 193rd / 197th Avenue area. These main build alternatives are: . Alternative DI (1)_ Split Diamond Interchange with Partial Access at 193rd Avenue: this interchange alternative provides a bridge over Highway 169 at I 97th A venue along with access to and from Highway 169 to and from the north, and a southbound slip ramp from 197th Avenue to Holt Street. Alternative DI also provides a bridge over Highway 169 at Jackson / 193rd Avenue along with access to and from Highway 169, but does not accommodate southbound exits from Highway 169 to Jackson / 193rd Avenue. . Alternative D2 - Split Diamond Interchange with Full Access at 193rd Avenue: this interchange alternative also provides a bridge over Highway 169 at I 97th A venue along with access to and from Highway 169 to and from the north. This alternative also provides a bridge over Highway 169 at Jackson /193rd Avenue along with access to and from Highway 169 in all directions. Both alternatives require land from parcels along the proposed 197th A venue interchange ramps, relocation of buildings and businesses in the southeast quadrant of the Jackson / 193rd Avenue interchange, and provide no driveway access to 193rd Avenue between Evans Street and Dodge Avenue. However, full access at 193rd will lessen the traffic related impacts at the 193rd/Jackson Avenue intersection, west of Highway 169, near the cemetery. Therefore, since the impacts of the two alternatives are similar, but Alternative D2 provides full access to Highway 169 at Jackson / 193rd A venue, the design team and the Local Advisory Committee selected Alternative D2 as the Preferred Alternative. Main / School Street Area The design team considered three main build alternatives for the Main / School Avenue area. These main build alternatives are: . Alternative BC 1 - Main Street Interchange with School Street Overoass: this alternative provides a full access interchange a Main Street and a bridge over Highway 169 at School Street, but no access to or from Highway 169. Other key characteristics of this alternative include: o No Highway 169 access at School Street forces all traffic wanting to access Highway 169 at School Street to the Main Street or the Jackson / 193rd Avenue interchange. o Excessive traffic on the frontagelbackage roads. o Excessive traffic exiting at Main Street. o High potential for overload ofthe Main Street interchange. II) Electronic, color copies of the layouts are available on the project website's "Maps" page: http://projects.dot.state. mn. us/srf/ 16gelkriverlmaps. html SUMMARY OF PRELIMINARY EVALUATION ELK RIVER HIGHWAY 169 PRELIMINARY DESIGN AND ENVIRONMENTAL DOCUMENTATION June 4, 2007 o Safety concerns with the excessive amount of traffic that would use the frontage/backage roads. o Limited access and circulation to the northwest and northeast quadrants at Main Street. Alternative BC-l (2) was eliminated from consideration due to operational concerns and the fact that it failed to meet the future transportation needs ofthe area. . Alternative BC-2 - Main / School Street Collector-Distributor Road ConceDt: this alternative provides full access interchanges at both School and Main Streets. Other key characteristics of this alternative include: o Separates School and Main Street traffic (separate access points). o Maintains current frontagelbackage roadway system. o Balances volumes between Main Street and School Street. o Uses Collector-Distributor system for access to School and Main Street. o Less expensive construction costs (fewer/less expensive structures). o Provides good access to northeast and southwest quadrants at Main Street (connects to the current street system). o Limited commercial access to southeast quadrant at Main Street; access provides for right- in/right-out. o Commercial property impacts in the northwest and southeast quadrant of Main Street. o Potential commercial impacts in the northwest and southwest quadrants at School Street. o Potential residential impacts at School Street and east frontage road. o Good intersection spacing. o Good traffic circulation patterns. . Alternative BC- 3 - Main / School Street Braided Ramp Concept: this alternative also provides full access interchanges at both School and Main Streets. Other key characteristics ofthis alternative include: o Separates School and Main Street traffic (separate access points). o Maintains current frontagelbackage roadway system. o Balances volumes between Main Street and School Street. o Uses Braided Ramps (or bridged ramps) to facilitate access to School Street. o More expensive construction costs (two more bridges and a significantly larger Main Street Bridge to accommodate the Single-point interchange). o Complicated construction and Main Street profile issues. o Fewer direct commercial property impacts to the northwest and southeast quadrants at Main Street; but potential for additional property impacts due to ponding requirements. (2) Electronic, color copies of the layouts are available on the project website's "Maps" page: http://projects.dot.state.mn.us/srjl169elkriver/maps.html SUMMARY OF PRELIMINARY EVALUATION ELK RIVER HIGHWAY 169 PRELIMINARY DESIGN AND ENVIRONMENTAL DOCUMENTATION June 4, 2007 o Poor access to commercial areas in northwest aod northeast quadraots; significaot circuity into aod out of these areas. o Limited commercial access to commercial areas in southeast and southwest quadrants at Main Street; access restricted to right-in/right-out. o Commercial property impacts in the northwest and southeast quadraot of Main Street. o Potential commercial impacts in the northwest and southwest quadraots at School Street. o Potential residential impacts at School Street aod east frontage road. Based on preliminary analysis and public input, the design team found that Alternative BC-2 provides for the best traffic operations, provides good access to the northeast and southwest quadrants at Main Street by connecting to the current street system, will have lower construction costs relative to Alternative BC-3, and was more acceptable thao Alternatives BC-l aod BC-3. For these reasons, the design team and the Local Advisory Committee recommends Alternative BC-2 as the Preferred Alternative. It should be noted that Alternative BC-2 was also the preferred option based on comments received at the May 17th Focus Group meetings and Open House in Elk River. Highway 10/101/ 1691nterchange The design team considered three main build alternatives for the Highway 10/101/169 interchaoge. Each of the three alternatives would remove the existing signal at the north ramps of the interchaoge, aod would also remove the existing stop sign at the south ramp of the interchange. The main build alternatives considered are: . Alternative Al (3) - Full Regional Interchange: this interchange alternative provides high speed, free flow for all movements. This results in high costs due to the number, height (four level structures), aod lengths of new bridges over the river, railroad and other roadways. Compared to the other two alternatives, Alternative Al had the highest right-of way impacts (primarily in the north and south quadraots). As a result, Alternative Al was eliminated from consideration due to high costs, right-of- way impacts, and due to the likelihood that key environmental impacts such as a Wild and Scenic River (Mississippi) due to additional bridges, aod right-of-way impacts to Babcock Park. . Alternative A2 - Interchange with Loops (Three-Level): this interchaoge alternative provides high speed ramps for major traffic movements, and lower speed loops for minor traffic movements. High costs due to the number, height (three level structures), and lengths of new bridges over the river, railroad and other roadways. However, since Alternative A2 still would require at least one new bridge over the Mississippi River, it was also eliminated from consideration due to high costs, right- of-way impacts, and due to the likelihood that key environmental impacts such as a Wild aod Scenic River (Mississippi) as a result of the additional bridge(s), and right-of-way impacts to Babcock Park. . Alternative A3 - Interchange with Loops (Two-Level): this interchange alternative also provides high speed ramps for selected major traffic movements, aod lower speed loops for minor traffic movements. Lower costs due to the number, height (two level structures), aod lengths of new (or widened) bridges over the river, railroad aod other roadways. Since Alternative A3 reduces key environmental impacts by widening the existing bridges (not adding new bridges) over the Mississippi River, and minimizes right-of-way impacts to Babcock Park by pulling ramps away from the park, the design team and the Local Advisory Committee recommends Alternative A3 as the Preferred Alternative. (3) Electronic, color copies of the layouts are available on the project website's "Maps" page: http://projects.dot. state. mn. us/srj7169elkriver/maps. html ~CONSULTING GROUP, IN c. Transportation. Civil. Structural. Environmental. Planning. Traffic. Lanci<;eape Architecture. Parking. Right of Way SUMMARY OF FOCUS GROUP MEETINGS Elk River Highway 169 Preliminary Design and Environmental Documentation Focus Group Meetings Thursday, May 17, 2007 MnDOT hosted several focus group meetings throughout the day on May 17, 2007 for the Highway 169 Preliminary Design and Environmental Documentation study in Elk River. Invitations were sent to several stakeholder groups to discuss issues and needs along the corridor, and to discuss proposed alternatives. Summaries for each meeting are presented below. ELK RIVER CITIZEN'S LEAGUE The Elk River Citizen's League met with Craig Robinson (Mn/DOT), Terry Maurer (City of Elk River), Dave Montebello (SRF Consulting Group), and Brett Danner (SRF Consulting Group) at Elk River City Hall from 8:00 to 9:30 a.m. The purpose of this meeting was to proactively involve this community group in the project process. Focus group discussion is summarized below. . The group asked whether a frontage road would be running through the landfill area west ofTH 169 and north of221st Avenue. Mn/DOT responded that the project would not affect the landfill area. . A Citizen's League member with experience installing irrigation wells in the area stated that groundwater is observed fairly consistently at approximately 12 feet. . The alternative concepts for the Main Street interchange were discussed. Terry Maurer stated that the folded diamond interchange at Main Street under Alternative BC-2 provides greater opportunities for access and redevelopment ofthe property north of Main Street along the east side of TH 169. . The group asked if the TH 169 studies had any influence on the TH 10 studies through downtown Elk River. Mn/DOT noted that any decisions regarding TH 169 would not preclude any improvement options for TH 10 through downtown Elk River. . The group asked how far the project scope extended beyond the TH 169 corridor. Dave Montebello and Craig Robinson noted that the project area generally extends out to the first signalized intersection beyond the corridor. Terry noted that some answers regarding changes to the local street system will have to wait until future improvements to TH lOin downtown are identified. . There is some concern that TH 10 and Main Street improvements are not included in this study effort. There is concern that improvements to TH 169 will shift the traffic/transportation problems from one side of town to the other. . School transportation/access from School Street is an emotional issue that should be taken into consideration as part of the study. One Carlson Parkway North, Suite 150, Minneapolis, MN 55447-4443 Telephone (763) 475-0010 Gl Fax (763) 475-2429 Gl httv://www.srfconsulting.com An Equal Opportunity Employer Summary of Focus Group Meeting - 2 - May 17,2007 Elk River Highway 169 Preliminary Design and Environmental Documentation GREAT RIVER ENERGY Representatives from Great River Energy (GRE) met with Craig Robinson (Mn/DOT), Terry Maurer (City of Elk River), Dave Montebello (SRF Consulting Group), and Brett Danner (SRF Consulting Group) at Elk River City Hall from 10:00 to 11 :30 a.m. The purpose of this meeting was to involve a key stakeholder group from the Elk River community, and to discuss the Highway 10/101/169 interchange and access changes to the GRE site. Focus group discussion is summarized below. . Plans for the Great River Energy (GRE) site were distributed. GRE plans to expand the site as an energy park. Construction on a new peaking plant is anticipated to begin in 2008. Permits are pending on this expansion. A substation on the site will also be expanded. . GRE feels that right-of-way impacts from a new regional interchange (TH 10/101/169) or from conversion ofTH 169 to a freeway will not be a significant issue. GRE has an agreement through 2011 to use a portion of Mn/DOT right-of-way for geothermal heating (underground pipes). This supplies most the heating and cooling to their facilities. The critical issue for GRE will be access to their site. . The BNSF Railway line passes through the GRE site. GRE uses a rail spur to receive heavy equipment. A private rail signal with gate arms is located at the rail crossing between the northern and southern portions of the site. GRE has not experienced any safety problems at their at-grade railroad crossing. . Heavy trucks access the site 24 hours a day. . Employees access the site from all directions (TH 169, TH 10, Main Street). Approximately 60 percent of employees access the site from the north, and 40 percent access the site from the south. . Deliveries typically come from the south and access the site from TH 10. . GRE has experienced cut-through traffic on their site. Motorists are using the GRE site to cut-through from TH 10 to TH 169. GRE is considering gating off their site to prohibit such movements. . ACTION ITEM: GRE will provide an estimate of traffic volumes to/from their site to Terry Maurer. Terry will distribute this information to the project team. Information to be provided includes: RDF (refuse derived fuel) truck count (trucks that transport mixed municipal waste to the site for electricity generation) Delivery truck estimate Trip estimate based on the number of employees planned at the site · Access to the GRE site could be provided from the north at Main Street. A wider roadway section on Main Street is recommended. . Contact Michele Lommel at GRE to obtain plan and profile sheets of transmission structures within the project area. . Support for Alternative A3 and Alternative BC2 as preferred alternatives - provides better access to their site and surrounding properties. Summary of Focus Group Meeting - 3 - May 17, 2007 Elk River Highway 169 Preliminary Design and Environmental Documentation . ACTION ITEM: Future design meetings with GRE were requested. Mn/DOT and the City of Elk River should be included in these design meetings. . ACTION ITEM: SRF will provide a copy of the PowerPoint presentation to GRE. Summary of Focus Group Meeting - 4 - May 17,2007 Elk River Highway 169 Preliminary Design and Environmental Documentation ELK RIVER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Members of the Elk River Chamber of Commerce met with Craig Robinson (Mn/DOT), Terry Maurer (City of Elk River), Dave Montebello (SRF Consulting Group), and Brett Danner (SRF Consulting Group) at Elk River City Hall from 12:00 to 1:30 p.m. The purpose of this meeting was to proactively involve the Elk River business community in the project process. A formal presentation on the project background, issues, and alternatives was given to the group. The presentation was followed by a question and answer session. This discussion is summarized below. . The group asked a question regarding northbound TH 169 access at 193rd A venue and whether a loop would be needed at this interchange. . The group asked a question regarding right of way needs, compact ramps, and retaining walls. The project team responded that existing highway right-of-way is approximately 300 feet. However, a compact ramp may fit within the existing right-of-way footprint. Mn/DOT policy calls for right-of-way acquisition 75 feet out from the ramp centerline for drainage, access, and maintenance. . Business owners would like to see an alternative with a compact interchange at School Street with exit ramps closer to School Street. The main issue with the current alternatives is that the decision to get off at School Street must be made near Main Street. . ACTION ITEM: MnIDOT wil1100k at the weaving distance and weaving movements between Main Street and School Street. . Several attendees expressed concern over impacts to businesses, particularly small businesses and those that have been constructed recently. . There is concern over access changes, which could hurt businesses. . A participant commented that letters have been sent out to some business properties stating that Mn/DOT IState of Minnesota would be acquiring the business property within the next 5 years. Mn/DOT indicated that no such letters have sent to their knowledge, and requested that copies of these letters be provided to them so they could address this issue. No one in the group had actually seen the letters. . There is concern that completion of the TH 101 improvements to the south in Otsego will shift the traffic problems to the north, making the situation worse in Elk River. · General comments favored Alternative BC2, with the exception of a property owner that would be directly impacted by this alternative. Summary of Focus Group Meeting - 5 - May 17,2007 Elk River Highway 169 Preliminary Design and Environmental Documentation GUARDIAN ANGELS Representatives from the Guardian Angels met with Jim Hallgren (Mn/DOT), Scott Clark (City of Elk River), Beth Bartz (SRF Consulting Group), and John Hagen (SRF Consulting Group) at the Guardian Angels site from 8:00 to 9:30 a.m. The purpose of this meeting was to involve a key stakeholder group from the Elk River community. Focus group discussion is summarized below. . Concern was expressed regarding the TH 10 IRC study recommendation that TH lObe elevated through the downtown area. Scott Clark noted that the City did not agree with that recommendation, although they accepted they study. . The stoplights currently breaking down on both TH 10 and TH 169 is problematic. . Cut-through traffic frequently occurs from Main St. to Evans S1. and then to the west when Main St is congested. . It was suggested that the Main S1. interchange could be moved further south toward TH 10. Jim Hallgren noted interchange spacing concerns. The group also asked about the possibility of relocating GRE to open up other opportunities. . The group asked if the Main interchange is generally too problematic and suggested the option of dropping this alternative from consideration. John Hagen explained that the large amount of traffic entering and exiting TH 169 would overwhelm a single interchange. . Pedestrian crossing of TH 169 is an issue. Many seniors rely on scooters for transport. Wal Mart, Cub Foods and Target (groceries and pharmacy) are key destinations. . The group asked whether any consideration was given to a bypass around Elk River for recreational traffic going north. The "Elk River Bypass" concept was explained, but it was also noted that a bypass would not eliminate the need for improvements to TH 169 through Elk River due the traffic generated by adjacent land uses. . The biggest issue is local use ofTH 169 and TH 10 because there are not good alternate north-south or east-west routes. . Timing of the improvements was discussed. Jim Hallgren explained that there are no funds currently in place, but that having completed preliminary plans and environmental approvals will increase the chances that funding could be made available. . The amount of traffic going west on Main S1. to connect to TH 10 is problematic. A connection off to Proctor or Jackson S1. would relieve some traffic. Additionally, "cheating" is occurring at the Parrish river crossing. Limited railroad crossings also create bottlenecks. . Many residents of the facility still drive. There is concern about any alternatives that increase traffic on Evans S1., create more congestion at Evans S1. and Main St., or provide a confusing connection across TH 169 (single-point interchange configuration of Alternative BC-3). Any options that would provide seniors with a safe path to or from their facility would be appreciated. . Residents are also served by an Elk River circulator bus provided by Sherburne County. . Preference indicated for Alternative BC2. Summary of Focus Group Meeting - 6 - May 17,2007 Elk River Highway 169 Preliminary Design and Environmental Documentation ELK RIVER PUBLIC SERVICES Representatives from several Elk River public service agencies, including the School District, Emergency Services (Police and Fire), the Park District, and Municipal Utilities met with Jim Hallgren (Mn/DOT), Scott Clark (City of Elk River), Beth Bartz (SRF Consulting Group), and John Hagen (SRF Consulting Group) at the Elk River City Hall from 10:00 to 11:30 a.m. The purpose of this meeting was to brief key community service agencies on the alternative concepts under consideration and to seek input on any anticipated issues. This discussion is summarized below. . The Police Department noted there is already a high number of crashes on Evans St. at 193rd/ I 97th Ave. . From an emergency service perspective, it would be preferable to eliminate the right- in/right-out on Main St. east ofTH 169. . From an emergency response perspective, the Alternative BC-3 would be less desirable due to the circuity oflocal street accesses. . Emergency service providers were concerned that adequate capacity could be provided at the Hwy 10/169 interchange in the future. . An "east" fire station will be built east of TH 169 near the new school. Ambulance services are provided out of the Fire Department. . Both the Police and Fire Departments like the extension of 193 cd and School Street over to 13. There are not adequate east-west connections through the City to adequately provide emergency services. . The Elk River Fire Department covers two-thirds of Otsego as well, including most of the Hwy 101 corridor. There are concerns that the current Hwy 101 improvements will create a bottleneck in Elk River. . The school district anticipates a separate "service district" east of TH 169 in approximately 15 years. A complete range of school facilities east of TH 169 will separate school travel sheds on either side of TH 169 requiring few, if any, students to cross TH 169. . The existing pedestrian bridge gets a fair amount of traffic now. As schools are built east of TH 169, it is anticipated that there will less need for a separate pedestrian crossing. . "Vision" provides transportation services for the Elk River school district and could provide additional information or input if needed. . Baldwin Park is an area of green space that was purchased by the City to preclude development of another apartment complex on the site. While it is referred to as a "park", it has no facilities, and no programmed activities occur on this site. It is not anticipated that this will change in the future. The park representative stated that they could easily give up this land for an alternative that would better serve the public. There is no park dedication of this land on the deed that the park representative was aware of. City staff could provide the paperwork for the acquisition of this land if needed. . Babcock Park provides an invaluable resource for the public to access the Mississippi River. No capital improvements are planned for this facility. The current alternatives preserve the land, but access is a key concern. The park gets moderate use, and is Summary of Focus Group Meeting - 7 - May 17, 2007 Elk River Highway 169 Preliminary Design and Environmental Documentation probably in the top one-third of all recreation facilities in the City. The boat access is used frequently. The Park has been a trouble spot for behavioral issues. These have improved somewhat with removal of the restroom facilities and increased surveillance and enforcement. Easy access is essential for enforcement on the site. Limiting access to "hide-away places" such as bridge abutments from the park will also deter unwanted behavior. Trail design through the area should also consider this issue. Vegetation provided should be compatible with the native vegetation found in the park. Storm water storage and treatment is also needed (currently none); perhaps natural approaches such as rain gardens should be considered. . The City has discussed converting the landfill to recreational facilities once it is closed. The project team was advised to get a copy of the plans from City staff (Chris Leesburg). . The City has a potential plan for a trail to follow the TH 10 corridor and connect to a large trail system planned through the region along the Mississippi River. There are no trail plans along Hwy 101. . The adopted trail plan should be referenced throughout the corridor; this plan is up to date. Elimination of snowmobile/ A TV use through the City has been an issue. . Strong preference for Alternative BC2. . ACTION ITEM: MnlDOT will provide electronic and hard copies of concepts for further review and reference. Summary of Focus Group Meeting - 8 - May 17, 2007 Elk River Highway 169 Preliminary Design and Environmental Documentation HEAVY INDUSTRIAL GROUP Representatives from several heavy industrial businesses, including Waste Management, Tiller Corporation, and Aggregate Industries met with Jim Hallgren (MnlDOT), Scott Clark (City of Elk River), Beth Bartz (SRF Consulting Group), and Jolm Hagen (SRF Consulting Group) at the Elk River City Hall from 12:00 to 1:30 p.m. The purpose of this meeting was to brief the group on the corridor vision and access concepts, and to seek input on any anticipated issues. This discussion is summarized below. . The group asked if auxiliary lanes at 221 51 Ave between interchanges could better accommodate increased gravel truck use. The project team responded that this could be considered during preliminary design. . The group asked what would happen to the west frontage road ifthe landfill expansion didn't happen. The project team responded that the frontage road would be extended north to the landfill entrance, and that they would work with property owners at that time to determine the best route. . There are plans for CR 77 to possibly be demolished in the future. The road in this area only provides access to one resident and a tower, so there are many opportunities for realignment. The City will be conducting a master planning effort for this area in 2008 to determine future land use and transportation connections. This effort will also provide an opportunity to address truck and residential traffic conflicts. . Livonia Township is also considering a comprehensive planning effort next year, so similar concerns could be addressed in that area as well. . The Toth property area could provide flexibility for the east frontage road in that area (after mining concludes). . The group asked about the lack of a frontage road connection to the south on the west side ofTH 169 in the 237th/239th area. When the landfill closes, a connection to serve future land uses could be considered. . The group asked if any access closures are anticipated prior to the reconstruction. MnlDOT said no early closures are planned. Interim improvements to address safety concerns for trucks crossing and entering/exiting TH 169 are advised if construction will be far off. . Expected mining both west and east ofTH 169 will be near completion in 20 years. The next mining area would be PrincetonlMilaca. It is anticipated that there could be some overlap of residential development with remaining mining uses. Asphalt and concrete block plants are expected to remain after mining operations close. . Any frontage roads in this area should be free of spring weight restrictions. . ACTION ITEM: Participants agreed to provide truck traffic projections for the area to better understand frontage road sizing and operations. H:\Projects\5875\EP\rcports\resolution\Focus Group Meeting summary.doc . CONSULTING GROUP, IN C. r ransportation . Civil' Structural' Environmental' Planning' Traffic' Landscape Arehit€Clure . ParlMg . Right of Way SUMMARY OF MEETING AND PUBLIC COMMENTS Elk River Highway 169 Preliminary Design and Environmental Documentation Public Open House Meeting Thursday, May 17,2007 Elk River City Hall MEETING SUMMARY MnDOT hosted a public open house from 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. on May 17, 2007 for the Highway 169 Preliminary Design and Environmental Documentation study in Elk River. MnDOT invited all affected property owners along the corridor from the Hwy 1011011169 interchange to County Highway 19. Thirty-seven people signed in at the meeting. There was no formal presentation. Display boards were available that explained the study process. Design layouts of the alternatives were available along with MnDOT and SRF staff who explained the design options and answered questions. SUMMARY OF WRITTEN COMMENTS Five meeting attendees submitted comment sheets at the open house. These comments are summarized below. All comments will be presented to the Local Advisory Committee for their consideration during the alternatives evaluation process. Issues . Additional crossings of the Mississippi River are necessary to relieve Highway 101 and Highway 169. . Commuter and non-commuter traffic creates severe congestion on the 94/101/169 corridor; drivers must find alternate local routes. Alternatives . Support for replacing traffic signals on the mainline with interchanges and overpasses. . Suggestion to realign roadway on the Rin Tin Inn property to reduce impacts. . Support for Alternative A3. . Support for Alternative BC2. . Support for Alternative 02. Other . Support for accelerating the construction schedule (several comments). . The presentation materials and project staff were easy to understand and helpful. H:\ProjectsI5875IlPIMeetingsIOpen Housell - 5 07IMeet Summary.doc One Carlson Parkway North, Suite 150, Minneapolis, MN 55447-4443 Telephone (763) 475-0010 @ Fax (763) 475-2429 @ http://www.srfconsulting.com An F,,!ual Opportunity Employer HIGHWAY 169 - ELK RIVER PRELIMINARY DESIGN AND ENVIRONMENTAL DOCUMENTATION Public Open House May 17, 2007 COMMENT SHEET YOUR COMMENTS ARE IMPORTANT TO US! Please write your comments on this form. You may either put your completed form in the comment box or return it to the address listed below. 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Please write your comments on this form. You may either put your completed form in the comment box orreturn it to the address listed below. YourComments:-1i dIP'.T ADIJL:i1f} ~~ b-/V1:.;:;o #/A.! A-e/l//Ue..L-s 69A.J ~~ 5' ~ ('d~ C'f 1~'7/~,:tr -;t~ /1/ltJj/dse6) /Z.9AR /vrf-7 L.'t/~(/eS &()w,u ...J-4/?u /h.tj .;.?/!~~ - /.t' /1 W~ 5'#A/;.;'.,{ ~ A-~/?d.s:S /1 PU-,tN...;1&J 5;fVC' A- OtT/la P'I- /Joy ~~J ;:r.?' YLW 'wtft/{t1 c:..#e fr; Idle TO ~ ~ e At~y- ~ #'h-,/L~5 ;C~rt5('" ~ ~5-77':::< -7c#'7r Se~1 ~LJ If you prefer, you may submit your comments to: Jim Hallgren Mn/Daf Project Manager 7694 Industrial Park Road Mail Stop 030 Bu;ter, MN 56425-8096 iames. hallJ!ren@dot.state.nIn.us ~ HIGHWAY 169 - ELK RIVER PRELIMINARY DESIGN AND ENVIRONMENTAL DOCUMENTATION Public Open House May 17, 2007 COMMENT SHEET YOUR COMMENTS ARE IMPORTANT TO US! Please write your comments on this form. You may either put your completed form in the comment box or return it to the address listed below. Your Comments: \R~( J (~~D~ ~U I ~ Q.lj - )Dl--- /61 CM~J'MA ~s tf~ if)), ClAw f{MSJ~ Gttlh J1M\~ ON /;-4~ Ali!" J1J5E :tI1J!WE J ~ A~E, /Ap(\\\fI/(l'-' j;A1l!<kPr::-V~ O~ 'j;T~Pj;\(fPtTs t!;lJ,rJJ}" ~~f~ J1~j~J1~~. ~-1 YCM~ ~j~JJ!J k~~l}lhbfj lAP ~e \ W\~;tJ PaQitS \~"'\N(r 10 ~BPrrJK.IrJJh f1F.\ It - ~~~ ~- - - -~\"" ~'~A- - s I 0 I V)/Vt '\ t..... Jk - U\ \ \fi~~~AVI ~~ l1PW/;; . -- :J' w AY~ iM{jf~ '\\W. -r\i{~P-\~ :JS SUuft lAAPPlu VOWrW:; A-JL~G~\b}(f;k, ~\ ~ ~~\18 \0 \Akl~, J3Ar.k RDA15 l1'Of{I~ /() A~b ~. ~ API 5U~ )+\tt\ L M ,wr,~})~j(/ \lw.. AiJ'\'Tt~HJ(r'IjJJ.;\ W \J}- - J\ '"" - -jf1(;) S I If you prefer, you may submit your comments to; Jim Hallgren MnlDOT Project Manager 7694 Industrial Park Road Mail Stop 030 Baxter, MN 56425-8096 iames.halli<ren@dot.state.mn.us Wit