Agenda Packets - 2003/06/23 - Laserfiche WebLink

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of or opposed to the proposed sidewalk project. This is somewhat subjective, since the feedback forms did not have a checkbox for being in favor of or opposed to the sidewalk as proposed. Staff also mapped out the addresses where these responses originated. This is attached as Exhibit J. The City has received feedback from several governmental agencies: City of New Brighton – Recommends that the segment from Silver Lake Road to Pleasant View be a higher priority. Segment from Edgewood to Silver Lake Road would be somewhat redundant. Suggests using a 5 foot sidewalk for two reasons: 1.) A five foot section is adequate for the volume of pedestrian traffic expected, and 2.) a five foot section would allow for a wider boulevard. Please read the actual letter from Les Proper in Exhibit I. Rice Creek Watershed District – No wetland impacts. Try to incorporate general infiltration practices where practical. May or may not require a permit. Please read actual letters from Karl Hammers and Lee Daleiden in Exhibit I. Ramsey County – Dan Solar, Traffic Engineer, responded verbally. County has few concerns. Place sidewalk ½ foot from property line if possible to provide the maximum space in the boulevard area. Does not foresee the reconstruction of County Road H east of Long Lake of many years. No plans at this time that would indicate additional widening, but no guarantees could be given. Sunnyside Parent Teacher Association – Concerned about the safety of the children. Support the proposed sidewalk. School District 621 – Children could walk to Sunnyside Elementary School safely on the sidewalk until they arrive at a crosswalk with a crossing guard. Support the proposed sidewalk. Considerations if the Project Proceeds – Should the Council wish to proceed with this project, the following previously posed questions will need to be addressed formally. In addition, Staff should be given direction regarding the issues. What scenario is preferred? Scenario 1 – Five (5) foot concrete walkway Scenario 2 – Six and one-half (6 ½) foot concrete walkway Scenario 3 – Eight (8) foot bituminous pathway *Staff would like to note to the City Council that selection of a scenario might set a precedent for the remaining approximately 12 ½ miles of pathways and sidewalks yet to be constructed, as reflected in the City’s Comprehensive Plan. In this particular case, the cost difference between a five (5) foot and a six and one-half (6½) sidewalk is over $38,000. This amount could be applied toward the purchase of a piece of equipment to plow and maintain a five (5) foot sidewalk (approximate total cost of $70,000). As the City’s sidewalk and pathway system grows, the City will need to consider the efficiency of maintaining this system. Regardless of the width of the sidewalk, or if this proposal is approved, the benefits and cost savings of maintaining all City sidewalks with a piece of equipment that operates faster and is more maneuverable will need to be considered.