09-12-2012 Council Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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MINUTES CITY COUNCIL SEPTEMBER 12, 2012 The Engineer also reported that the railroad requires that Minnesota Commercial Railway crews install the actual concrete crossing at the railroad tracks. When the permit application was made, the cost of this work was estimated at $6,100. The Engineer stated that he has contacted MN Railway and they indicated the first step is to install longer railroad ties at the crossing location. They currently have equipment in the area to do this. The remainder of the crossing work could be done at a later date but prior to the City trail installation to ensure a smooth match at the crossing. The Engineer indicated that the fill placement and the concrete crossing at the railroad tracks would be part of the $162,000 budget for this project, and there is no guarantee that the competitively bid portion of the project would result in a cost less than the maximum amount approved. The Engineer also noted that the railroad crossing permit expires on 3/16/13. The Engineer felt it may be more advantageous to bid this project in the spring for 2013 summer construction. However, another crossing permit extension would cost the City $600. The Engineer noted that the City could still stockpile the fill and suggested that Public Works West may be a good location, or there may be other fill available as part of any upcoming City projects. Blesener asked if the City has discussed driving on the easement area with the St. Paul Water Department. The Engineer replied that he has. Blesener pointed out that St. Paul Water has not completed the planning for their project, and expressed concern that if the City places fill on the easement, it may end up to be in the wrong location. Blesener suggested that another permit extension may be preferable as it would allow more time for St. Paul Water to complete the work they are doing on their property. McGraw agreed and felt that St. Paul should complete their well work so there is no confusion as to where the City's trail work should be located. Blesener noted that a trail easement is still necessary on the north side of the railroad crossing. The City Administrator indicated that there is an agreement in concept for that easement, but it has not yet been finalized. The City Administrator suggested that rather than stockpiling fill at Public Works West, it would be better to stockpile it on the St. Paul Water property so that it would not have to be moved again. He suggested that this be arranged with St. Paul Water or we obtain fill from another source when the project moves forward. 9