11-13-1996 Council Agenda - Laserfiche WebLink

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The 8' wide path was the next topic of considerable discussion. The City Engineer explained that an off- street path separated by a 5 foot median in the area between LaBore Road and County Road D was proposed in order to provide for snow storage, reaction zones, and better maintenance of abutting property. South of LaBore Road to Keller Parkway, the path is proposed to be adjacent to the curb given the tight dimensions posed by existing features in this area. Questions were raised regarding the need for the path, protection of trees, the width of the section proposed given a 5 foot separation from the roadway and its impact on property, and path maintenance. It was explained that this path was called for in our Master Trail Plan. Trees are protected to the greatest extent possible. The width of the section does impact adjoining property and other options are possible. The City accepts responsibility for maintaining the path and only plows the paths generating the most usage. The City Administrator also explained that the numbers indicated on the information sheet showing Ramsey County participating to the extent of $682,000 were not correct. That number will be reduced and the City will need to make up the difference from other sources of funding (MSA). Several residents questioned the need for curb and gutter. The City Engineer explained that curb and gutter is typically proposed because it is known to protect the edge of the roadway, provides a better means of conveying drainage to storm sewer systems, the barrier can provide protection for adjoining property in that it is less easy for cars to leave the roadway area, and a number of people consider concrete curb and gutter to be aesthetically pleasing. Ed McCumber noted that his property was not included on the proposed assessment roll. The City Administrator noted that if his property was benefitted, it would be assessed. After further discussion on the path and its impact on abutting properties, the vast majority of the people did not favor the construction of any path. (Three people present did favor path construction.) The City Administrator then posed a question to the people that if a path were to be constructed, would they prefer an on -road (wider roadway) path versus a separated path. The majority of those present indicated that on -road would be preferred over the separated path. They also noted that a separated path does not make a lot of sense given the fact that the connection to Gervais Lake is an on -road path. A resident asked about the path crossing LaBore Road and how it would be marked. The City Engineer indicated that it would be marked as a crosswalk with signage. Speeds were noted as a problem on Arcade. Staff indicated that we can have the Ramsey County Sheriff's Department provide additional patrol in that area with the traffic car. It was also noted that most neighborhood speeding problems result from the residents of that -3- Page 60