2021.04.13 WS Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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Rn•INEW 1U BRIGHTON building tomorrow today Council Worksession April 13, 2021 5:00 pm Present: Mayor Kari Niedfeldt-Thomas Councilmember Abdullahi Abdulle Councilmember Graeme Allen Councilmember Pam Axberg Councilmember Emily Dunsworth Absent: Staff in Attendance: Devin Massopust, Craig Schlichting Guests in Attendance: Due to the COVID-19 pandemic this meeting was held virtually. Review of Local Transportation Network Massopust reported this topic has come up numerous times by the Council. He explained the transportation system in New Brighton involves a lot of different processes and agencies. He stated staff wanted to provide the Council an overview of what that looks like now. Schlichting provided the Council with a presentation on transportation. He discussed how the MnPASS project was impacting New Brighton residents and local roadways. It was noted the MnPASS project would be completed in the fall of 2021. The location of temporary traffic signals was reviewed with the Council and it was noted staff would support the retention of these signals. However, staff did not anticipate the four lights would remain. Councilmember Allen asked what the cost was for a traffic signal. Schlichting estimated a four legged signal would cost the City $750,000. He noted that the City would not be responsible for the cost of all four legs at the temporary signalized intersections because these intersections were on County roads. In addition, he noted MSA funds and TIF dollars could be used to assist with expenditures. He commented further on the expense of renting traffic signal equipment going forward. Schlichting commented on the comprehensive street plan and the 2040 Comprehensive Plan. He reported the City was responsible for paving and maintaining 64 miles of streets. He discussed how E2 was reconstructed in coordination with the County and noted monument signs was another topic of conversation the Council could consider holding in the future. He described the City's pedestrian and crosswalk plan, noting common practices for crosswalks. He reviewed the future improvements being planned for the Old Highway 8 corridor and commented on the LRIP Grant. He discussed how speed and traffic safety was vital to the community, along with the bus transit options available to New Brighton residents. Mayor Niedfeldt-Thomas thanked staff for the detailed presentation. She indicated this review was important when considering increased affordable housing in the community and what transit options were available to residents. She questioned what the City has done to pursue more bussing options with the Met Council.