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• • • Planning & Zoning Board November 13, 2013 Page 3 The city should consider requiring a turn lane on Birch Street near the church by Old Birch Street Connection to the Foxborough development is important as soon as possible. Exiting Old Birch Street onto Birch Street is very difficult The development should include sidewalks so that pedestrians are not using the street as part of a trail Request that the item come back before the board for additional review Staff noted that they have received comments from residents and issues will be addressed with the applicant and the county. Staff received comments from Anoka County prior to the meeting, but without time for review. Staff stated that safety issues on Birch Street are a top priority. The city will evaluate site lines and consider safety measures such as turn lanes and additional signage of advisory speeds in the area. Applicant, Mike Black, was present on behalf of the developer. Mr. Black noted that they will work with staff to reduce some of the lot sizes in order to expand the outlot area. Mr. Black explained that they have been planning this project for six months and the developer has not come across any issues that they will not be able to address. Mr. Black understands the importance of the city's trail system and is in favor of connecting trails. He expressed concern with trails that go between lots. He believes that the trails as proposed would adequately address the trail connection. Mr. Black pointed out that due to the insignificant amount of traffic that would be at the end of the proposed cul -de -sac, a trail along the road would not be merited. He also did not agree with providing a sidewalk along Pheasant Run, noting that this would be the only development with a sidewalk along that street. Mr. Black stated that they will continue to work with staff to address any other concerns. Chair Tralle declared the Public Hearing open at 7:39 p.m. Linda Dawson. 877 Fox Road, lives at the end of Fox Road. Ms. Dawson stated concern for increased traffic in the area as well as potential impact to trees. She was concerned about the proposed road connection to Foxborough and traffic going to and from Old Birch Street. Ms. Dawson distributed a photo of the trees that currently exist where a future road is proposed. She was also concerned about the environmental impact to the neighborhood. Gary Foster, 882 Old Birch Street, owns four acres adjacent to the proposed development. Mr. Foster stated concern for poor street conditions and increased traffic issues. He was very concerned for the lack of maintenance to Old Birch Street and that no improvements are proposed to that road by the city. Mr. Foster expressed that neighboring property owners should have been previously informed of plans for DRAFT MINUTES