4.3. SR 03-19-2001City of
River
TO:
FROM:
DATE:
SUBJECT:
M£MORANDUM
Mayor and City Council
Scott Harlicker, Senior Planner
March 19, 2001
Northstar Corridor Update
Item # 4.3
At the NCDA meeting held on March 19th, there was an update on the NCDA
reorganization. The Executive Committee is working with MNDOT on a
smooth transition for when MNDOT assumes control of the Northstar
Corridor in June. There was an update on activity in the state legislature
affecting the Northstar Corridor. Four bills are proposed that include funding
for the corridor and one bill that will require city approval of the physical
design component of commuter rail corridor plans. Ken Stevens gave a brief
presentation on the cost breakdowns and operating cost of minimal operating
segments of the corridor. Elk River was included in each of the segments.
Dave Loch presented how stations areas are developing in each of the cities.
The proposal for the Eull property was highlighted as an example of transit
oriented development.
S:\PLANNING\SCOTT\ncdamarch.doc
13065 Orono Parkway · P.O. Box 490 · Elk River, MN 55330 · TDD & Phone (763) 441-7420 · Fax (763) 441-7425
Northstar Corridor Development Authority
Thursday, March 1, 2001
4:30 p.m.
Sherburne County Government Center
Elk River, MN
5.
6.
7.
Minutes of February 1, 2001 Meeting*
Discussion with Representative Carol Molnau,
Chair, House Transportation Committee
Executive Committee Report
a. Update on NCDA Reorganization*
b. Update in Congressional and Legislative Activities
Minimal Operable Segment*
City of Anoka Station Resolution*
Transit Oriented Development
Other
Action Requested
Approval
Discussion
Information
Discussion
Information
Information
Next Meeting: April 5, 2001
*Attached
DRAFT DRAFT DRAFT DRAFT
NORTHSTAR CORRIDOR DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY
Regular Meeting Minutes
February 1, 2001
The Northstar Corridor Development Authority met in regular session on February 1, 2001, in the Board Room at the
Sherburne County Government Center, Elk River, Minnesota.
Present were: Paul Ostrow, Mark Stenglein, Steve Billings, Lynn George, Paul McCarron, Dave Saunders,
Walt Fehst, Gerald Goebel, Carl Yilek, Duane Cekalla, Duane Grandy, Ken Paulson, Carolyn Brain, John
Weaver, John Norgren, Ewald Peterson, Terry Nagorski, John Ellenbecker, Bob Johnson, Tom Cruikshank,
Lewis Stark, Tom Gamec, Patrick Cairns, Jay McLinden, Kelli Nau, Kirsti Marohn, Jim McLean, Paul
Danielson, Jeff Lutz, Jim Barton, Rick Speak, Luci Botzek, Bruce Wojack, Dartell Lipscomb, Alicia Vap,
Scott Harlicker, Mukhtar Thakur, Jean Keely, John Blahn, Jeff Dehler, Patrick Sexton, Peggy Aho, David
Loch, Brian Bensen, Elwyn Tinklenberg, Ann-Therese Schmid, Margot LaBau, Jodi Ruehle
1. The meeting was called to order at 4:35 p.m. by Vice Chair Paul Ostrow.
2. New members to the Authority (due to election results) were introduced and welcomed.
A motion was made by Ewald Peterson, seconded by John Norgren and carried unanimously to
approve the agenda of February 2, 2001, and the minutes of December 7, 2000 meeting, as
presented. '
4. Executive Committee Report:
a)
Paul McCarron presented the legislative and congressional update. Mr. McCarron noted that
although positive things are being heard from the house, senate and congress, staff and
members need to continue their lobbying of the Northstar Project. Tom Gamec noted that
several cities along the Corridor have stated their reluctance to support light rail transit. Mr.
Gamec suggested that NCDA members and staff continue addressing the communities'
concerns, perhaps gaining more support for the project. Commissioner Stenglein and Erhart
noted that they had recently spent time with Representative Krinkie, but that it looks like the
NCDA will not get his vote. Duane Cekalla noted that he had spoken with Representative
Schumacher and that she had given her support to the Northstar Project even though she
feels that commuter rail may take businesses and jobs away from the northern part of the
Corridor.
b)
A motion was made by Tom Gamec, seconded by Dave Saunders and carried unanimously
to approve the recommendation of the Executive Committee to execute the following two
agreements:
An amendment to the Agreement for Professional Services for Phase II
Technical Services with URS/BRW Corp. to increase the contract amount
by an amount not to exceed $200,000 and to amend the 2001 budget as
necessary (due to unanticipated costs related to the DEIS and certain of the
station designs).
Page I
I0.
11.
12.
Members interested in attending the Conference should contact Mary Richardson or Peggy Aho at
Richardson, Richter & Associates as soon as possible.
A motion was made by John Norgren, seconded by Tom Gamec and carried unanimously to
authorize expenses up to $1,000 per member to attend the Commuter Rail Conference in Seattle,
Washington.
A trip to Chicago, Illinois, will be scheduled in the near future to provide members and key
stakeholders an opportunity to view rail stations. A motion was made by John Norgren seconded
by Lewis Stark and carried unanimously to authorize expenses up to $500 per member to travel to
Chicago, Illinois.
It was noted that a lawsuit has been opened by the St. Anthony Square group vs. the NCDA,
Mn/DOT and the City of Minneapolis, challenging the NCDA's and the City of Minneapolis
planning and EIS was not done properly. NCDA's insurance company will provide defense counsel
to the NCDA.
A letter from the St. Cloud Area Planning Organization was passed out at the meeting showing that
the St. Cloud APO passed a resolution approving the Northstar Corridor Commuter Rail Advanced
Corridor Plan.
The next meeting is scheduled for March 1, 2001, at 4:30 p.m. at the Sherburne County Government
Center.
The meeting was adjourned at 6:15 p.m.
Betsy Wergin Chairperson
Date
\\FS 1 \SYS I\DEP%CoordLAdmndata\COMMITTE\CORRIDOR\2001 \020101 NCDA draft.doc
Page 3
III.
Agenda Item #3a
DRAFT- 2/22/01
NCDA
Transition Documents
Outline
Purpose: Fulfill direction of NCDA Resolution 2001-01
Necessary Contract Actions
A. Amendments Required
1. NCDA Joint Powers Agreement - NCDA Approval: April 5;
Members Approvals: April 5 - June 1
2. Mn/DOT Grant Agreement (if necessary for funding
activities prior to June 1, 2001) - NCDA Approval: May 3
3. Mn/DOT Approval of NCDA 2001 Contract Amendments -
immediate
B. Assignment of Contracts
1. NCDA Action: May 3 for Assignment as of June 1
a. Harkins Cunningham - BNSF Negotiation
b. Mainline Management- BNSF Negotiation
c. Bob Kessler- BNSF Negotiation
d. TKDA - Preliminary Engineering
e. BNSF - Preliminary Engineering (Note: this contract
has not been executed)
f. URS/BRW- Preliminary Engineering
g. URS/BRW- Phase II Technical Service
h. Himle Horner- Public Involvement
C. Termination of Contracts
1. NCDA Action: April 5 for Termination as of June 7 -.
a. Coordination Agreement with Mn/DOT
2.NCDA Action: May 3 for Termination as of June 1
a. Ken Stevens
b. Richardson, Richter & Associates
c. Loch and Associates
d. Lindquist & Vennum
Transition Budget
1. Projected Contract Expenditures/Transition Budget to
Assignment Date (to be developed)
2. Projected NCDA 2001 Budget (to be developed)
Closing Documents, as required by Resolution 2001-01
A. Report on status of all work as of Assignment Date (June 1)
B. An assessment of the risk and liability position of the NCDA as of
Assignment Date
C. Program audit
D. Executed copies of all contract amendments, assignments and
termination documents
NO TAH
Executive Committee:
Betsy Wergin, NCDA Chair
Sherourne County
Paul Ostrow, NCDA Vice Chair
City of Minneapolis Councilmember
Paul McCarron
Anoka County
Mark Stengtein
Hennepin County Regional Railroad
Authority
Steve Billings
City of Fridley
Lewis Stark
Haven Township
March 1,2001
EIwyn Tinklenberg, Commissioner
Department of Transportation
395 John Ireland Building, Mail Stop 100
St. Paul, MN 55155
Dear Commissioner Tinklenberg:
Thank you for attending the February 1, NCDA meeting to discuss
MnDOT's assumption of the management and control of the Northstar
Commuter Rail Project. The resolution as revised and adopted by the
NCDA at the meeting is enclosed. As set forth in the resolution, the
NCDA will retain project management until June 1 and will then
commence operations as a commuter rail corridor coordinating
committee ('CRCCC'), as provided for in state statute.
At our February 23, 2001 meeting, the NCDA Executive Committee
discussed the implications of the transition to a CRCCC. In order to
have a full policy discussion of the issues, however, it is important for us
to have a better understanding of MnDOT's intent. In paragraph 4 of
the NCDA resolution, we requested that MnDOT prepare a description
of the roles and responsibilities of the NCDA acting as a CRCCC. On
behalf of the Executive Committee, I would like to renew that request.
Specifically, the committee had questions about the type of issues on
which you would seek the advice of the NCDA. The committee also
would like a description of the duties and responsibilities of the CRCCC
and how the CRCCC will operate, including staffing, funding, budgets,
preparation of materials, setting agendas, and so on. The fundamental
issue is how will MnDOT ensure that the advisory role of the NCDA is
meaningful.
At our next meeting on March 15, the Executive Committee will discuss
the amendment necessary to our Joint Powers Agreement to reflect our
changing role. We will also be discussing whether to continue as a joint
powers board or to disband. The information we have requested from
you will be very important for our deliberations.
I want to assure you that we continue to be committed to a smooth and
orderly transition. The Executive Committee has appointed
Commissioner Paul MCarron to lead our transition efforts, and he will be
meeting with Margo LaBau in the very near future.
Northstar Corridor Development Authority
2100 3'" Avenue, Anoka, Minnesota 5530%2265 (763) 323-5700 Fax: (763) 323-5682 www. northstartrain.org
March 1,2001
Page 2
Please feel free to call me if you have any questions or concerns.
Sincerely,
Betsy Wergin
Chair, NCDA
BW:sc
Enclosure: Resolution
cc: Executive Committee
Northstar Corridor Development Authority
Resolution
2001-01
WHEREAS, the Northstar Corridor Development Authority (NCDA) is a joint
powers board established in May 1997 and is comprised of 30 local units of
government; and
WHEREAS, the NCDA has worked for nearly four years to analyze
transportation needs and alternative solutions for the Corridor, has completed A Major
Investment Study and has identified commuter rail as the centerpiece of the locally
preferred transportation investment strategy, in accordance with federal requirements;
and
WHEREAS, Congress and the State Legislature have appropriated funding for
the Northstar Corridor for the planning, engineering and implementation of the Northstar
Project; and
WHEREAS, in October 2000, the NCDA and the Minnesota Department of
Transportation (Mn/DOT) entered into an agreement assigning to the NCDA the
responsibility to develop the commuter rail project through construction, in cooperation
with and under the supervision of Mn/DOT; and
WHEREAS, the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) has approved the NCDA's
management of the project through preliminary engineering; and '~
WHEREAS, the NCDA has completed a DEIS and is midway through the
preliminary engineering process; and
WHEREAS, the NCDA has a decision- making and staff structure in place to
complete this phase of the Northstar Project; and
WHEREAS, the political support and unity of the 30 units of government, acting
in concert with Mn/DOT, is critical for the success of the project, and in particular in
obtaining funding from the State Legislature this session; and
WHEREAS, the Mn/DOT has requested that control and management of the
project, as well as certain of the associated contracts, be assigned to Mn/DOT by
March 26, 2001; and
WHEREAS, the NCDA and Mn/DOT share a common purpose of securing
funding for the Northstar Corridor Rail Project and implementing the project as
professionally and expeditiously as possible.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT:
-- 1. The NCDA will retain decision-making authority, its current management structure, its
o
o
legislative and congressional responsibilities, and all associated contracts until at least
June 1,2001.
The NCDA hereby renews its request that Mn/DOT transfer to the NCOA the State and
federal funds appropriated for the Northstar Corridor for work on the project.
The NCDA directs its staff to prepare the necessary transition documents including: a)
a complete report of the status of all elements of the project as of the
assignment date of June 1; b) an assessment of the risk and liability position of
the NCDA; c) completion of a program audit; and, d) all legal documents required
to assign project contracts. The NCDA directs staff to work with Mn/DOT to
ensure an orderly transition and report at the February 15 Executive Committee
meeting and the March 1 NCDA meeting.
As of the June 7, 2001 meeting of the NCDA, the Board will commence operation as a
commuter rail corridor coordinating committee ("CRCCC") as set forth in Minn.
Stat. § 174.86, subd. 5. The NCDA respectfully requests Mn/DOT to prepare
description of the roles and responsibilities of the NCDA acting as a CRCCC.
The NCDA further directs staff to evaluate whether the new role of the NCDA
requires an amendment to its Joint Powers Agreement and to report back to the
February 15 Executive Committee meeting and the March 1 NCDA meeting.
This change in project management is subject to the approval of the FTA and will be
submitted as part of the changes required in on-going approval process of the
Project Management Plan.
B~'S~ We~ir~, Chairperson .fl '
Dated: "~,~,~. /. ~ ~,.'?~ /"
Certification
I hereby certify that the above resolution is a true copy of the Resolution duly passed,
adopted, and approved by the Northstar Corridor Development Authority on February 1,
200
1.
Agenda Item #4
MEMORANDUM
DATE:
TO:
FROM:
RE:
February 16, 2001
NCDA
Executive Committee
Minimal Operable Segment (MOS) Analysis
The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) requires analysis and determination of the cost
effectiveness of all federally funded transit projects. The cost effectiveness indices are useful to
the FTA in its process of ranking the large number of funding requests it receives from cities
across the country. The analysis also provides local decision-makers with data essential to their
own process of determining viable and appropriate termini for the project.
In addition to developing cost effectiveness indicators for the Northstar Corridor project between
downtown Minneapolis and Rice, the FTA requires similar information for what is termed the
Minimal Operable Segment (MOS). The Northstar MOS analysis, therefore, evaluates shorter
segments of the total project while still maintaining a viable commuter rail project. The FTA
intent is to ensure that local decision-makers have evaluated all reasonable alternatives to the
full-length project proposal.
The Northstar Corridor MOS analysis includes the base case of Minneapolis to Rice as well as
potential northerly termination points at E. St. Cloud, Big Lake and Elk River. The various
incremental ridership, operations cost, and capital costs are used to determine the cost
effectiveness indicators for the various segments. In addition, the data also includes analvsis
based upon the September, 1998 NCDA Policy for Extension to the Northstar Corridor. [finally.
a chart comparing the cost effectiveness indicators for the Northstar project with other projects'
from across the country is included. ..
It should be noted that while the FTA requires the MOS analysis, the decision on which location
to end the current project is a local. Local decision is deemed to mean not federal.
Action Required:
Discussion.
Northstar Corridor Development Authori~.
Date:
To:
From:
Subject:
September 24, '1998 '
Northstar Corridor Development Authorit~ Executive Committee
Executive Committee
Policy on Extensions of the Northstar Corridor
Backqround
The Northstar Corridor is defined' in State and federal legislation as linking downtown
Minneapolis to the St. Cloud area. in response to a request from Benton Count-y, the NCDA
agreed to include the City of Rice as a part of the study area for the Major Investment Study.
The NCDA further agreed, at its last meeting, to include in its current study the assessment
of the feasibility of Commuter rail in St_ C~oud. Mn/DOT has'offered to pay for the additional
costs associated with the western extension of the Corridor. Morrison County has su'bmitted
a resolution requesting a station in Little Falls and supporting the stat[o~ irt Rice if such an
extension is not feasible. At its meeting on September 17, the Executive Committee discussed
elements of a draft policy on extensions of the Northstar Corridor and recommends that the
NCDA adopt the' following policy.
Proposed Policy
The NCDA will evaluate the initial terminus and future extensions of the Northstar Corridor
using the following criteria:
· Estimated Rider. ship
· Capital Cost
· Operating Cost
· Environmental Impact
· Station Site Availability
· Station Area Access
· Economic Development Potential
· Railway Operating Impact "
· Community and Governmental Support
· Future Expansion Potential
Given the limited resources of the NCDA, the governmental unit requesting the evaluation
should secure the funding needed to conduct the evaluation. The NCDA will conduct the
evaluation of the extension as soon as the NCDA deems it feasible and appropriate in light of
its work on the initial segment of the Corridor.
Action Requested.'_ Approval.
COMPARISON OF NEW START COST EFFECTIVENESS FOR SELECTED PROJECTS
INCREMENTAL COST PER
INCREMENTAL PASSENGER
TOTAL CAPITAL SECTION 5309 SECTION 5309 SHARE New Start ve, OVERALL PROJECT
PROJECT COSTS IMIIIIone) FUND, lNG IMIIIIon=! OF CAPITAL COST No-Build I TSM RATING
Northstar MPLS to Rice (Preliminary) $ 231.0 $' 116.0 50% $ 9.84 $ 13.60 NA
Dallas-FI. Worlh TRE Phase 2 $ 160.6 $ 62.4 39% $ 4.60 $ 9.80 Recommended
FI. Lauderdale Tri-County Commuter Rail $ 327.0 $ 110.5 34% $ 13.80 NA Recommended
Newark-EIIzabelh Rail Link $ 207.7 $ 142.0 68% $ 8.80 NA Highly Recommended
San Diego Mission Valley East $ 431.0 $ 330.0 77% $' 10.40 NA Highly Recommended
Chicago Central Kane Corridor $ 93.O $ 54.3 62% $ 13.70 $ 16,80 Recommended
Minneapolis Hlawalha Avenue $ 548.6 $ 274.3 50% $ 19.00 $ 19.20 Recommended
Orange County - Cenlerllne $ 2,015.8 $ 1,009.1 50% $ 6.80 $ 11.90 Recommended
Chicago Metre SW Corridor Commuler Rail $ $65.5 $ 103.9 63% $ 8.90 $ 8.60 Highly Recommended
San~^. ,~Dle~l° (Oceanside__.. ...... Escondido RailI $ 235.5 $ 152.1 60% $ 4.40 $ 6.40 Hl~lhl~/Recommended
SOURCE: FTA Summary of FY 2001 New Starts Ratings
NewSlart Comparison - 012401 .xls
NORTHSTAR CORRIDOR
PRELIMINARY ASSESSMENT OF ALTERNATIVE TERMINI Original Cost Model
Late 2000 Fuel Costs
RICE E. ST. CLOUD BIG LAKE ELK RIVER
CHARACTERISTIC TO MPLS TO MPLS TO MPLS TO MPLS
Length (Miles) 79,9 64.5 38.8 28.2
# of Stations 12 11 8 7
Average Daily 2020 Rail Ridership 10,829 10,724 10,201 9,627
Average Daily 2020 Bus Ridership 276,711 276,711 277,138 277,238
Total 2020 transit riders 287;540 287~435 287r339 286;865
Capital Cost (20045) $ 227,367,941 $ 221,451,553 $ 204,987,147' $ 195,854,104
O&M Cost- Rai1(20045) $ 13,910,219 $ 12,168,030 $ 9,561,188 $ 8,416,374
O&M Cost- Bus(2004$) $ 872,655 $ 942,701 $ 1,339,628 $ 1,361,518
Annualized Capital Cost $ 161360,347 $ 15,953,722 $ 14,9221083 $ 141292:258
Total Annual Cost $ 31;143;221 $ 29,064~454 $ 251822;900 $ 24,070;149
Cost Effectiveness (CEI) RE: No-Build $ 9.84 $ 9.27 $ 8.32 $ 8.12
Cost Effectiveness (CEI) RE: TSM $ 13.60 $ 12.61 $ 10.86 $ 10.72
Annualized cost per rail rider $ 9.59 $ 9.03 $ 8.44 $ 8.33
BRW. Inc.
NOTES:
1. Rail and bus ridership estimated by KPMG
2. Bus O&M costs assume comparable bus service between Rice and rail terminus
from 2-4-00 and 12-8-00 memo from Manuel Padron & Associates
Feeder bus to Big Lake assumes 4 new buses; to Elk River assumes 4 new buses.
3. Capital costs for stations and maintenance facility from 10-21-99 Capital Cost Estimate (BRW, Inc.)
Capital costs for imprOvements north of Big Lake ($6.1 million) excluded from Big Lake and Elk River analyses.
Capital costs for Big Lake and Elk River exclude station costs~north of the terminus
Includes revised capital costs to Rice lay-up from LTK email dated 1-6-01
Capital costs for Rice include an additional $1.7 million in rail capital costs
Clear Lake Station excluded from all capital costs.
4. Rail O&M costs from 1-12-01 O&M Costs estimates by Manuel Padron & Associates
5. Annual cost is the sum of 2004 bus and rail O&M cost and annualized 1999 capital cost per FTA Newstarts Guidance
1/24/01
R:\Forecasl~Nsta~,~lOS\5Tralnsets~[cosle~2.xls]slatlons
NORTHSTAR CORRIDOR
Comparison of Incremental Ridership and Costs
For Alternative Northstar Commuter Rail Termini
Original Cost Model
Late 2000 Fuel Costs
Elk River to Big Lake to East St. Cloud to
Total To Elk River Big Lake East St. Cloud Rice
Incremental Daily Riders 9,627 574 523 105
Incremental Annual Riders (Daily *300) 2,888,100 172,200 156,900 31,500
Incremental Capital Cost (20045) $195,854,104 $9,133,043 ° $16,464,406 $5,916,389
Incremental O&M cost (Bus+Rail) (20045 $9,777,891 $1,122,925 $2,209,915 $1,672,143
Incremental .Annual Cost $24,070,149 $1,752,7501 $3,241,554: $2,078,767
BRW, Inc.
1/24/01
NORTHSTAR CORRIDOR
Comparison of Incremental Annual Cost Per Incremental Rail Rider
For Alternative Northstar Commuter Rail Termini
Elk River to Rice
Incremental Annual COst per Incremental Original Cost Model
Rail Rider Late 2000 Fuel Costs
Base: Elk River $8.33
Elk River to Big Lake $10.18
Big Lake to E. St. Cloud $20.66
E. St. Cloud to Rice $65.99
Incremental O&M Cost (Bus & Rail) per Original Cost Model
Rail Rider Late 2000 Fuel Costs
Base: Elk River $3.39
Elk River to Big Lake 56,52
Big Lake to E. St. Cloud $14.08
E. St. Cloud to Rice $53.08
Notes:
1. In 20045
2. Does not include fare box recovery
BRW, Inc.
1/24/01
EVALUATION OF ALTERNATIVE TERMINI FOR THE NORTHSTAR CORRIDOR COMMUTER RAIL LINE
I I EastI Big Elk
CRITERIA ,. Rice St. Cloud Lake River
All sites technically feasible with no significant impacts
Environmental
Wetland Impact
mitigation will be
required
Currently all four sites available; long term availability Is unknown
Station Site Availability Site requires
business and Additional property required for park
railroad and ride spaces needed to support
,, dlsplacemenl end of line station
Station Area Access All sites have readily available access
Linkage to at least' SI, Cloud Additional park and ride spaces
Economic Development Potential maximizes economic development needed to support end of line station
potential by linking economic and would cOmpete for land available for
educallonal centers transit oriented development
Railroad Operating Impact Railroad Impacts addressed In capital and operatln[~ cost estimates
Community and Government Support Slrong community suppod Ihroughout the corridor; Truncating the line
reduces communlly support
Future expansion possible from any initial termni. Extensions in the future
Future Expansion Potential would be subjecl to renewed compelllion for local, slate and federal funding
and renewed ne,qoliations for use of railroad.
BRW. Inc. '
1/2 5/01
2001 ANOKA COUNTY LEGISLATIVE PROPOSALS/ISSUES
Mar 1, 2001
Comments/
ISSUE HF/AUTHOR SF/AUTHOR HOUSE STATUS SENATE STATUS Financial FINAL ACTION
Impact
Northstar Appropriations Bill HF822 SF556 Intro. 2/12 - referred to Introduced 2/5 - $92M appropriation -
Abeler Krentz Transportation Finance Referred to Finance ($60M - bonding,
Committee 2/12/01 Committee $32M cash)
representing 40% of
state's share of
project.
Regional Corridor Funding SF 297 Passed 2/13 referred Appropriations for
Chief Author: to Finance Committee. midwest regional rail
Kiscaden engineering &
Intro. 1/25 - referred to environmental
Transportation Corem analysis activities
completion.
Joint LRT Regional Corridor Kelly $135M appropriation
Funding Multiple corridors -
$92M Northstar
included.
Regional Corridor Planning HF137 SF119 Intro. 1/16 - referred to Intro. 1/16 - referred to Require city or town
Requirements Erhardt Terwilliger Transportation Policy Transportation Comm. approval of the
Committee physical design
component of
commuter rail
corridor plans.
Regional Corridor design HF447 Intro. 1/29 - referred
component local approval Lenczewski Transportation Policy
required.
Regional commuter rail routes HF624 SF608 Intro. 2/5 - referred to Intro. 2/8 - referred to
identified prior to funding for Seagren Belanger Transportation Policy Transportation
study.
Governor's Bonding Bill $115M bonding for
Northstar and
Hiawatha
connection.
ANOKA
Office of the Mayor
3anuary 17, 2001
Agenda Item ~5
CITY HALL · 2015 FIRST AVE. NO. · ANOKA, MINNESOTA 55303-2270
Phone (763) 576-2700 · Fax (763) 576-2727, TTY (763) 422-0442, www.ei.anoka.mn.ug
JAN 1 9 2001 ¢)
THE ANOKJ~, COUNTY
ADMINISTRA-~"'R'S OFFICE,
Mr. Tim Yantos
NORTHSTAR CORR/DOR DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY
Anoka County Government Center
2100 Third Avenue
Anoka, MN 55303
Dear Mr. Yantos:
On 3anuary 16, 2001 the Anoka City Council unanimously adopted Resolution No. 2000- 11
strongly reaffirming its support and approval of the location and general design of the NCDA
commuter rail station at the 4r" Avenue crossing in the City of Anoka. Enclosed is a copy of
Resolution No. 2001 - 11 and Resolution No. 2000 - 85, adopted on October 16, 2000.
I would request that this information be forwarded to the Northstar Corridor Development
Authority Board. I also request the opportunity to briefly introduce myself and speak to this
point at your next regular meeting.
We look forward to working with the Authority to see this exciting project through to reality.
If you have any questions, please contact me at 712-9434 or Robert Kirchner at 576-2721.
Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
E. Sko¢luist
Mayor of the City of Anoka
AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
CITY HALL · 2015 FIRST AVE. NO. · ANOKA, MINNESOTA 55303-2270
Phone (763) 576-2700 · Fax (763) 576-2727 · TTY (763) 422-0442 · www.ci.anoka.mn.us
RESOLUTION NO. 2001 - ~.~.
A RESOLUTION IN SUPPORT OF TH'E
COMMUTER RAIL STATION IN ~ CITY OF ANOKA
WlIE~AS, on October 16, 2000, the Anoka City Counc~i adopted Resolution No. 2000-85
in support and approval of the location and general design of the NCDA commuter rail station
at the 4m Avenue crossing in the City of Anoka; and
WHEREAS, tt'u'ee of the five members of the Anoka City Council have since changed due to
election and appointment; and
WItEREAS, the current Anoka City Council desires to strongly affirm Resolution No. 2000-85
in support of the commuter rail station at the 4~ Avenue crossing in the City of Anoka.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the City Council of the City of Anoka
unanimously reaffn'ms Resolution No. 2000-85 in support of the commuter rail station at the
4~h Avenue crossing in the City of Anoka.
· Adopted this 16c" day of January 2001.
ATTEST:
Nl~ark NagS'l, City M&ager
CiTY HALL · 20[5 FIRST V'-
A =. NO.. '<'~'OK.~.. MtNN£SOTA 5_5503-2270
PHONE (763~ 576-2700 · t.%<(763~ ~7~ ~,m~'~
- .... · TT¥ 17631 A'~'~ O~.-~.m
RESOLUTION NO. 2000- 8 5
NORTHSTAR CORRIDOR DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY
ADVANCED CORRIDOR STUDY
WHEREAS, the Northstar Commuter Rail Development Authority (NCDA) is a multi-
jurisdictiona/joint powers entity empowered to study multi-modal transportation systems in Hermepin,
Anoka, Benton, and Sherburne Counties;
WHEREAS, the NCDA is proposing an 80 mile commuter rail (fixed transit-way)' system
extending from St. Cloud to downtown Mhnneaoolis in conjunction with other transportation system
improvements;
WHEREAS, the proposed commuter rail system will utilize the existing tracks of the
Burlington Northern Santa Fe Ra~oad;
WHEREAS, the City of Anoka ~ily supports the efforts of the Norr. hstar Corridor
Development Authority (NCDA) to plan tbr and implement commuter rail a'ansit and other forms of
dedicated transit ways to erthance travel alternatives for Aaoka and regional residents' employees and
viskors;
WHEREAS, the NCDA has determined that a Commuter .Rail Station stop would be
appropriately located within the City limits or' Anoka, Minnesota near the intersecuon of the BNSF
Railroad and Fourth Avenue North;
WHEREAS, Minnesota State Statute Section 174.86 requires cities to review and comment
on the proposed location and design of commuter rail stations as depicted in "Advanced Corridor
P tans";
WHEREAS, the City of Anoka received a request to complete the statutory defined process
via a letter dated August ¢, 2000 signed by the Commissioner of the MLnnesota Department of
Transportation (MnDOT) and Me Norr. l~tar Corridor Development Authority Chairperson;
WHEREAS, the Norr21star CorridorDeve{opment Authority (NCDA) conducted its statutory
required public b_earing on the "Advanced Corridor Plans" on September 7, 2000;
WHEREAS, the statute requires the City to complete its review within '45 days of said
hearing by the NCDA;
WHEREAS, the Plarmin~ Commission held a public .-' . ,,
- me.un= to review the Advanced
Corridor Plans" on October 3, 2000:
WHEREAS'. the Planning Commission commented favorably on the Advanced Corridor
Plans: '
~VI--IEREAS, the Commuter Rail Station location within the City. of Anoka is in a partially
developed urban neighborhood within close proximity to the core downtown area ot' the Citw and within
walking distance to the North Metro Regional Treatment Center providing for a high population and
employment density; -
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
Resolution 2000-
Page 2
WHEREAS, the City of Anoka recognizes the relationship between land use planning and
transit usage and fully supports the principals and policies that support Transit Oriented Development:
and
WHEREAS, vacant [and area in and around the proposed station stop area provides
opportunity for future transit oriented development and redevelopment; and
WHEREAS, the City has identified the station area and surrounding areas as a priority
planning area.
NOW, THEREFOR BE IT RESOLVED that the City of Anoka encoUrages the efforts of the
NCDA by supporting the following land use policy in support of Transit Oriented Development:
Future development and redevelopment efforts will strengthen pedestrian connections
to the commuter rail station from major destinations such as Downtown Anoka and the
Regional Treatment Center through use of sidewalks and trails. This will include the
analysis of alternative sate pedestrian railroad crossings.
Higher intensity development consisting of two and three story buildings will be
encouraged with future redevelopment efforts.
A mixed-use land use pattern is encoUraged for future redevelopment efforts.
Future development and redevelopment will include commercial development that
would serve the residents La the area, commuters using the Norr._h. star Train. and
employment centers such as Lakeland Tool and the Regional Treatment Center.
Open space and/or green spaces will be incorporated into the design of furore
development to strengthen the pedestrian environment.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the City. of Anoka will amend its comprehensive plan
and official controls (zoning and subdivision ordinances) prior to the implementation of commuter rail
to support the above policies for trarksit-oriented development; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Ci.ry of Anoka approves 'of the Advanced Corridor
Plan subject to the following conditions:
That the NCDA follow normal procedures and regulations for site plan approvals
relative [o design and construction of the commuter rail station stop facilities.
That the proposed design and [ocation of the station is in compliance with the City
Zoning Ordinance and other official controls.
Adopted this 16th day of October, 2000.
ATTEST:
Mark Nagel, City Cl[rk
Peter M. Beberg, Mayor/
SHERBURNE
COUNTY
7632412707
Northstar Corridor Development Authority
Resolution
2001-01
WHEREAS, the Northstar Corridor DeveIopment Authority (NCDA) ts a Joint
powers board established in May 1997 and is comprised of 30 local units of
government; and
WHEREAS, the NCDA has worked for nearly four years to analyze
transportation needs and alternative solutions for the Corridor, has completed A Major
Investment Study and has identified commuter rail as the centerpiece of the locally
preferred transportation investment strategy, in accordance with federal requirements;
and
WHEREAS, Congress and the State Legislature have appropriated funding for
the Northstar Corridor for the planning, engineering and implementation of the Northstar
Project; and
WHEREAS, in October 2000, the NCDA and the Minnesota Depadment of
Transportation (Mn/DOT) entered into an agreement assigning to the NCDA the
responsibility to develop the commuter rail project through construction, in cooperation
with and under the supervision of Mn/DOT; and
WHEREAS, the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) has approved the NCDA's
management of the project through preliminary engineering: and
WHEREAS, the NCDA has completed a DEIS and is midway through the
preliminary engineering process; and
WHEREAS, the NCDA has a decision- making and staff structure in place to
complete this phase of the Northstar project; and
WHEREAS, the political support and unity of the 30 units of government, acting
in concert with Mn/DOT, is critical for the success of [he project, and in particular in
obtaining funding from the State Legislature this session; and
WHEREAS, the Mn/DOT has requested that control and management of the
project, as well as certain of the associated contracts, be assigned to Mn/DOT by
March 26, 2001; and
WHEREAS, the NCDA and Mn/DOT share a common purpose of securing
funding for the Northstar Corridor Rail Project and implementing the project as
professionally and expeditiously as possible.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT:
I. The NCDA will retain decision-making authority, its current management structure, its
legislative and congressional responsibilities, and all associated contracts until at least
June I, 2001.
The NCDA hereby renews Its request that Mn/DOT transfer to the NCDA the State and
federal funds appropriated for the Northstar Corridor for work on the project.
The NCDA directs its staff to prepare the necessary transition documents including: a)
a complete report of the status of all elements of the project as of the
assignment date of June 1; b) an assessment of the risk and liability posit~on of
the NCDA; c) completion of a program audit; and, d) all legal documents required
to assign project contracts. The NCDA dfrects staffto work with Mn/DOT to
ensure an orderly transition and report at the February 15 Executive Committee
meeting and the March 1 NCDA meeting.
As of the June 7, 2001 meeting of the NCDA, the Board will commence operation as a
commuter rail corddor coordinating committee ("CRCCC") as set forth in Minn.
Stat. § 174.86, subd. 5. The NCDA respectfully requests Mn/DOT to prepare
description of the roles and responsibilities of the NCDA acting as a CRCCC.
The NCDA further directs staff to evaluate whether the new role of the NCDA
requires an amendment to its Joint Powers Agreement and to report back to the
February 15 Executive Committee meeting and the March 1 NCDA meeting.
This change in project management is subject to the approval of the FTA and will be
submitted as part of the changes required in on-going approval process of the
Project Management Plan.
B i' y we¢i , dh lrper-son Z¢
Dated: . /-3 r
Certification
I hereby certify that the above resolution is a true copy of the Resolution duly passed,
adopted, and approved by the Northstar Corridor Development Authority on February 1,
2001. J
~' '(-Name) ---'~ ~