12/01/2008 Council Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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The analysis report included seven regional access alternatives. The alternatives included a "no regional access" alternative as well as several variations of a "northerly by- pass" providing connectivity to both I -35E and I -35W from CSAH 14. The study determined that no additional regional access (i.e., interchange at I- 35W/14) was warranted during the 20 year study period. However, the study recognized that future growth within the study area will necessitate improvements beyond the reconstruction of CSAH 14 in the future. Of the seven alternatives reviewed, the preferred long term improvements included the extension of CSAH 14 easterly north of Peltier Lake and linking to 80th Street and I -35E. The alternative included a future interchange at 80th and I -35E as well as a CSAH 14/I -35W interchange located easterly of the existing overpass (attachment 1). The regional access alternatives were evaluated by both Mn/DOT and the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). Both concluded that any additional access to the regional system would need to be justified (the area must experience significantly higher traffic volumes) before improvements can be considered. Additonally, the local arterial system needs to be fully developed so that it supports the regional system before additional access to the regional system is developed. Based on the study an interchange at the existing overpass at CSAH 14 and I -35W is not proposed or warranted, nor is it included in the County's five year CIP or Mn/DOT's 20 year plan and is therefore unlikely to be eligible for federal funding in the short term. While replacement of the existing overpass would likely include a trail crossing it also is not included in the County or Mn/DOT's future plans. The newly constructed trail along CSAH 14 is part of the Regional Trail System and therefore extension of the trail system across I -35W is ultimately eligible for federal funding. The next federal funding solicitation process begins in 2009 for projects anticipated for construction in 2013 and 2014. However, the solicitation process is highly competitive and projects must meet certain criteria. One important element lacking for a potential extension of the CSAH 14 trail across I -35W is connectivity. Currently, there is no trail system developed westerly of I -35W. A stand alone trail project along Main Street would likely need to be of such scope to provide connectivity to an existing trail system or arterial roadway (i.e., Lake Drive) to be competitive. Additionally, federal funding is limited to 80% of the construction cost. In addition to a local match of 20 %, local dollars must also cover 100% of engineering, legal and land acquisition costs. At this time there is no local funding identified either at the County or City level to provide a local match. As listed in the Council Goals, Objectives and Management Plan, the City will continue to work with Anoka County to develop the Main Street northerly by -pass. Both the City's draft Comprehensive Plan and the Anoka County Transportation Plan include the proposed northerly alignment as recommended in the Alternatives Analysis Report. Additionally, Anoka County has indicated funding additional studies of the route in 2010. 2 • •