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LAKE ELMO CITY COUNCIL MINUTES FEBRUARY 19, 2013 <br /> <br />Page 2 of 7 <br /> <br />A discussion took place regarding dry hydrants. Chief Malmquist described the process. The question of the cost of dry hydrants was later discussed. Chief Malmquist said he was looking into a DNR grant to help fund. Also discussed was the placement of said dry hydrants. equipment acquisition, specifically Self-Contained Breathing Apparatuses, was discussed. Grants are being sought to obtain new equipment. Chief Malmquist provided an overview of the ISO Report. The last audit was in 2001. Mayor Pearson asked if the audit were conducted now, would there be a realized reduction in rates. It was stated that it would, but it may be justified in waiting. The test is free but should only be done every few years because the amount of work involved. Discussion was had regarding the benefits of waiting until more updates/improvements were on-line. Chief Malmquist stated that it would be worth waiting. Council Member Smith concurred that it was worth waiting so that the updates are captured. <br />ITEM 3: STATE HIGHWAY 5/CSAH 17 ROAD SAFETY AUDIT – PRESENTATION OF AUDIT FINDINGS/RECOMMENDATIONS Adam Josephson from MnDOT presented an overview of the past meetings regarding Hwy 5. Howard Preston, also from MnDOT and Lake Elmo resident, then provided an overview of the road safety audit findings. The road was divided into three segments: West (Jamaca Ave to Lake Elmo Ave.), Middle (downtown Lake Elmo), and East (Downtown to Manning) segments. The methodology was explained. Middle and East segments have higher crash rates than similar roadways. The West segment is lower than expected, despite more sever crashes. Ninety percent of crashes are intersection related. Jamaca and Manning have highest, not intersections between. According to MnDOT, based on the crash data, there is not an compelling need to do anything immediately. The suggestion for the immediate short term is to continue studying the road. There is an estimate of an average of 16,000 vehicles over the next 15 years. There is a uniform speed observed on Hwy 5. Part of the reason for the higher traffic volume is the underdeveloped roadway options. However, MnDOT did provide some suggestions to address the concerns and improve safety. Mr. Howard provided an overview of the suggestions. There are three different types: Short, mid, and long-term. All categories cover roadway safety, speed reduction, and pedestrian safety. Short-term is defined as 1-5 years; mid-term as 5-10 years; and long-term as 10+ years). [All the suggestions are included in the official city meeting record.] One of the easiest and quickest suggestions is the conversion of the road to a three lane roadway. The urbanization of the roadway has been effective in reducing speed. The process for adding third lane was later discussed. It is done with reallocating existing space. Mr. Josephson explained some options regarding government partnerships. Council Member Park expressed her support for the third lane option. A discussion was had regarding pedestrian bridges and the speed limit around the school. Mr. Josephson said the bridge solution usually is up to the cities. Compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act has increased difficulties in bridge construction. Council Member Smith noted her concerns about the findings regarding the pedestrian crash data. The fact that there currently are