10-09-2002 Council Workshop Minutes

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MINUTES CITY COUNCIL OCTOBER 9, 2002 this trail segment is contingent upon the reconstruction of Centerville Road. There is also the need to acquire right-of--way on Centerville Road between Spooner Park and Pioneer Park. Sanders reviewed the next priority that is the Waterworks Trail from South Owasso to North Owasso. He noted the need for on-grade crossings for the railroad tracks. However, this connection would be a valuable one since it connects with Shoreview's trail system. There would also be some construction difficulties along Country Drive given the close proximity of the lake. Sanders indicated that it is typically a long process to get the railroad to approve on-grade crossings. It was also felt that a tunnel was not an option in this area given the high water table. Fahey suggested that the City Attorney begin the process with the railroad to obtain approval or easements for an on-grade crossing. The next priority was the Middle School Trail connecting the Jackson/Demont area with County Road B-2. Sanders felt that this would be a good cooperative project with the School District. He noted the trails would meander through existing facilities versus the path indicated on the diagram. The next priority was the continuation of a trail/sidewalk along Rice Street. Sanders felt that this section of trail system should be kept in mind as the properties along Rice Street develop and the City has the opportunity to obtain missing trail easements. The next priority was the Gervais Creek Trail replacement that extends from Noel Drive to Centerville Road. Sanders pointed out that this trail segment is aging and should be improved to a wider standard. The last priority was the Vadnais Blvd. Trail near the Pratt Development. Grades are steep in this area, so it will likely be necessary to have both an on and ofl~street trail section. Don Heinel presented the Council with a copy of a letter from Mr. and Mrs. Durand, Edgerton Street, outlying their opposition on the trail improvement adjacent to their home. Heinel pointed out that the extension of the Power Line Trail as proposed would put a trail right through his business. Heinel indicated that his property is farmed, and dividing the property with a trail will cause them problems with getting equipment from one end of the property to another. Scalze suggested that perhaps special trail crossings could be installed that would allow the equipment to be moved through the property. Heinel indicated that they have problems with people stopping on County Road D and taking the produce they grow. To put a trail through this farm will encourage