2026.04.06 CC Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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Council Meeting Minutes for March 16, 2026 Page 6 of 7 Erin Blaylock, Washington County Civil Engineer, provided an overview of the project. She stated that the Hardwood Creek Trail is a ten-mile north/south trail located in Hugo and Forest Lake, following the former railroad right-of-way with both paved and unpaved routes running primarily parallel to Highway 61. There remains a one-mile gap in Hugo between 130th Street and 120th Street where the rail line is still active, and the project aims to complete this missing connection. Blaylock explained that the trail master plan was developed in 2013, followed by a City-led feasibility study in 2019 for a segment from 130th Street to Falcon Court and a subsequent County-led study for a trail from 120th Street to 130th Street. Following completion of those studies, the County applied for a grant for construction, which remains subject to approval by the 2026 State Legislature. A design consultant was hired earlier this year, with final design and bidding anticipated in 2027 and potential construction starting later that year. Public engagement was an important component of the County’s feasibility study, including a postcard mailer, agency coordination, direct outreach to interested parties, and meetings with property owners and representatives. The upcoming design phase will include similar activities along with an open house scheduled for April 8, 2026. Ramsey County will also attend to share updates on its planned trail improvements to the south. Project updates will be included in the City’s newsletter, and the County will attend local events to share information. In addition, an online engagement session will be hosted on the County’s website following the open house to provide the same materials and collect input. The next steps include holding the open house, finalizing an agency-supported concept layout, and bringing a request for formal support from the City Council at a future meeting. Petryk inquired about discussions with the owners of nearby townhomes and existing easements. Blaylock reported that multiple meetings have been held with representatives from Wilson Tool and the Bald Eagle Estates townhomes, who expressed interest in providing feedback. Coordination efforts with those groups are ongoing. She explained that easements do not exist on the HOA owned property, and property acquisition will be necessary. Council members expressed their appreciation to Washington County for its collaborative approach and efforts to engage the public throughout the project process. Reminder – Open House for 165th Street AUAR on Tuesday, March 24, 2026 City Administrator Bryan Bear reminded Council they had scheduled a meeting to attend the 165th Street AUAR Open House on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. Reminder – Local Board of Appeals and Equalization on Thursday, April 2, 2026 City Administrator Bryan Bear reminded Council the Local Board of Appeals and Equalization meeting was scheduled for Thursday, April 2, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. in the Oneka Room.