04-05-00 Council Workshop Minutes

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MINUTI';S CITY COUNCIL APRIL 5, 2000 out the trees in front of the Vitale shopping center buildings. He suggested that shifting the road further to the south would eliminate the need to remove these existing trees. The Engineer reported that the road could be shifted about 2 feet. However, the amenity corridor and sidewalk would shift as well. Therefore, the existing trees would still need to be removed. The City Administrator reported that letters have been sent to two homeowners on Little Canada Road adjacent to Round Lake. None have expressed an interest in selling at this time. The Administrator also pointed out the dispute between the County and Mr. Vitale with regard to property line location. He noted the proposal to improve Little Canada Road as shown on the plan and then vacate any unnecessary right-of--way on the north side of the street. This will eliminate the property line dispute. It was pointed out that moving the road 2 feet south would provide for additional green area on the north side of the road eliminating concern that cars parked in the shopping center parking lot would be hanging over onto public right-of--way. It would not be feasible to eliminate any of the parking lot width since the width is at a minimum. It appears cutting back the parking lot would eliminate an entire row of parking. The Council reviewed the pedestrian movement on the eastern edge of the project at Little Canada Road and County Road C. The Council felt it was important that pedestrian crossings be designated in this location. Michael Schroeder described in detail the streetscape elements he is proposing. He noted there are more intense treatments proposed along the stretch of Little Canada Road fi•om Rice Street to the railroad tracks. East of the railroad tracks the trees become more spaced out. Schroeder indicated that the 8-foot amenity corridor will contain paver treatments, concrete boulevards, cutouts for trees and plantings as well as some elevated plantings and freestanding pots. He described the architectural metal railings proposed as part of the streetscape. These railings will direct pedestrian traffic to the intersections. Schroeder pointed out that in the Redevelopment Guide the issue of storm water ponds was addressed. Schroeder suggested the possibility of reshaping the pond that has been designed by the City Engineer in order to utilize the pond as an amenity and provide for walking areas winding along the pond and Round Lake. He reported that he would work with the Engineer on this issue.