08-03-2020 Council work Session Packet

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WS – Item 2 WORK SESSION STAFF REPORT Work Session Item No. 2 Date: August 3, 2020 To: City Council From: Michael Grochala, Community Development Director Re: Birch Street (CSAH 34) Landscaping Improvements Background Anoka County is proceeding with final design of the Birch Street reconstruction project. The City Council directed staff to prepare some basic landscaping options for the two proposed roundabouts. WSB and Associates have drafted a couple options available for consideration. Each roundabout shows a basic concept and an enhanced design. Basic Design: • Includes low grow fescue. This turf can sometimes be difficult to establish, depending on soil types and weather conditions. Once established, it will only need to be mowed 2-3 times a year and requires minimal watering. • The center has a Mugo pine shrub surrounded by three trees, which can either be pine trees or a Hawthorn tree, which is smaller and has a wide horizontal branching pattern. Karl Foerster grass ornamental groupings are located in between so that the island will have appeal during winter as well. Enhanced Design: • Swaths of larger river rock mulch so that it only needs some spraying for weeds for less maintenance. • Smaller swaths of mass perennial plantings between the rock mulch for more summer color. One swath is the yellow daylily and the other catmint, which is a deep purple color. Both are very tolerant of high stress locations. General Notes: The plants selected will handle harsh conditions typical of a median and still survive. The Public Service department is reviewing the options from a maintenance standpoint and staff will provide any comments received at the work session. Requested Council Direction Staff is requesting council direction regarding landscaping design. Attachments 1. Roundabout landscaping examples