11-20-2006 Council Agenda - Laserfiche WebLink

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Memo TO: FROM: DATE: RE: PURPOSE City Council and Planning Commission Lee Elfering, City Engineer November 17, 2006 Standard City Street Widths 111-1-1111% ASSO(IflTtS TAU& OOATA The continuing increase in concern over the water quality in our lakes, streams, and wetlands has resulted in more and more regulations for stormwater discharge and treatment. With increased regulation typically comes increased cost of meeting the higher standards. One of the major contributors to runoff throughout the City is the paved street system. To be conscientious of the environment, taxpayer dollars, and public safety, staff felt that the City should review the current street width standards. As with any issue there are several factors that must be evaluated and weighed when making a decision on required street widths. On one hand you have the environmental and financial aspects. The narrower the street section the less runoff that will be generated and therefore require treatment. Financially, a narrower street will also result in slightly lower costs for the street construction. On the other hand you have functionality and safety. Street widths must be wide enough to allow safe travel along the roadway for motorists and emergency vehicles. In addition, on- street parking and the ability to provide for a means of pedestrian movement along the street may also be important on certain roadways. CURRENT REQUIREMENTS Municipal Code New Residential Streets Assessment Policy for Reconstructions Arterial /MSA Street (> 3,000 ADT) Collector Street (1,000 — 3,000 ADT) Subcollector Street (250 — 1,000 ADT) Street Width (face -to -face dimension unless noted other) 32 feet back -to -back 32 feet 32 feet 30 feet 10062 Flanders Court NE — Blaine. MN 55449 — (763) 780 -0450 fax (763) 205 -2341 ZAPROJ \120000E - Little Canada General \Ordinances \Memo - 111716 -CC (Street width).doc