08-23-2000 Council Agenda - Laserfiche WebLink

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Neighborhood Meeting Minutes Viking Drive (McMenemy to Edgerton) November 18, 1998 The City of Little Canada was represented by Terry Maurer, City Engineer; Andy Brotzler, Associate Engineer; Greg Schroeder, Public Works Director; and Joel Hanson, City Administrator. The meeting was convened at 7:30 p.m. The City Administrator welcomed those present to this evening's neighborhood meeting to discuss the possible reconstruction of Viking Drive as well as installation of water main along that portion not yet served by City water (see sign -up sheet attached for list of residents in attendance). He commented that this is a very difficult project due to impacts on existing trees and a limited road right -of -way. He introduced those present and tuned the meeting over to the City Engineer. City Engineer Terry Maurer reviewed his project handout information (copy attached). At the conclusion of Terry's presentation, the following issues and/or questions were discussed: Neighbors expressed a strong concern about the loss of trees resulting from this project. Many of them felt that the trees along the right -of -way were of great benefit to them in screening Highway 36 from their homes. If the trees are eliminated, some of them felt there would be a serious loss in property value. One party stated he would not have purchased his home if the trees had not been there. Reforestation was a major concern that they felt needed to be addressed if the project proceeds. The City Engineer commented that loss of trees is a definite problem for this project given the limited right -of -way we are dealing with, the installation of an urban section which would eliminate the ditches where many of the trees are located, and the width of the street section being proposed. A question was raised about the provision for pedestrian traffic along Viking Drive. It was noted that the road as proposed would be 32' wide and would accommodate on- street pedestrian traffic through the use of two 11 -foot driving lanes and two -5 foot shoulders. No off - street path is proposed.at this time. A question was raised if it is possible to shift the road towards Highway 36. The City Engineer noted that the option is being pursued with the MN Department of Transportation (MNDOT). It was noted that this could be a difficult objective to achieve. It was also noted that if the road is constructed in that area, the recent plantings along Highway 36 would be jeopardized as a result. The residents asked if the construction of a sound bather was possible. The City Engineer explained MNDOT's position regarding sound barriers and that it was highly unlikely one could be constructed in this area. Another resident expressed concern about increased traffic in the area once the road is redone. She was also concerned that speeds will increase given the road would be in an improved condition. She asked if speed bumps would be an option. The City Engineer Page 82