WS 06-09-2009 - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

NWQ Update Memo June 5, 2009 Page 2 attached. It is quite possible that the cables will interfere with the construction of future buildings on Block E. One of the primary questions is whether to move the lines now or wait for a specific development proposal. As an aside, during the construction of the Transoma project, Ryan Companies demanded that the City relocate an overhead power line that fed the Clear Channel billboard. This issue did not surface until shortly before construction and threatened to delay the start of the project. In that case, the City was able to "arm twist" Xcel Energy into moving the line, but not without a great of prodding to meet Ryan's schedule. Staff would like to avoid similar situation, but recognizes that there is a cost implication. Given the fact that east side dump closure and streetscape work is still unfinished, now might be a good time to do the work. We would recommend moving forward, but need concurrence from Council. If there is a desire to proceed, staff would bring the item back for formal approval at a future meeting. Butcher's Spur Clean -Up The former Butcher's Spur is comprised of four segments. The first piece was roughly 300' segment located across Old Highway 8, which was cleared as part of the recent road and sewer reconstruction. The second piece was located east of Old Highway 8 and terminated at 1-35W. This portion of track and roadbed has been cleared as part of the east side dump closure project. The two other segments are located west of Old Highway 8: the 3rd segment within the NW Refinery site, and the final segment from Ferrellgas to the eastern edge of the former NW Refinery. A map is attached showing the two remaining segments to be addressed. The approach for clean-up and development of the 3rd segment of the Butcher's Spur in the NW Refinery Site area will depend on the outcome of on-going discussions between the City, MPCA and Ashland. The most recent redevelopment plan from 2007 for this area involves a future park area that would include construction of a four foot clean soil cover over the contamination using the organic soil currently stockpiled along the western portion of MW Asphalt. That would be consistent with the historical approach for cleanup and development of adjacent portions of the NW Refinery Site in Long Lake Park. However, MPCA may require Ashland to conduct additional cleanup at the NW Refinery, which might allow consideration for adjusting the planned development. The MPCA is requiring removal of the shallow contaminated soil and debris that have been identified along the 4t" segment of the Butcher's Spur (from Ferrellgas west to the eastern edge of the NW Refinery). The shallow debris is present across much of the railroad right-of-way and the contaminated soil areas are shown on the attached map. It • is anticipated that this segment will be part of a future residential area under the most recent concept plan, which will require removal of the materials with disposal at an off-