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CR 91-06 Preliminary Design Plans - SW LRT Cooridor ----- ~.......E}...-.~......., ',,'''''', , -", "e ..".,-' "";':::"4.,- _..,C;_,:"..,_ . . ..-.... '.'" " ',' "'.'-'~.' '. .. "-',.," ",,>,,:, December 31, 1990 Council Report: 91-6 ~ PUBLIC HEARING - PRELIMINARY DESIGN PLANS FOR SOUTHWEST LRT CORRIDOR Proposed Action. Staff recommends that the City Council conduct the public hearing, review and discuss the preliminary design plans, and continue the matter until the Council's January 15, 1991 meeting. This action will meet the previous time schedule established for reviewing the plans and will allow the Council time to consider action to be taken on this matter. overview. The Hennepin County Regional Railroad Authority (HCRRA) has approved for distribution the preliminary design plans for the segment of the Southwest LRT Corridor located in the cities of st. Louis Park and Hopkins. These plans include the completion of design to approximately a 10% level. The City will also be given the opportunity to review the 30% design plans and the final design plans. The City is required to approve or disapprove the 10% preliminary design plans by January 27, 1991. If there is no action taken by the City within the specified time limit, the plans are considered approved. On November 29, 1990 an informational meeting was conducted by the City and the HCRRA on the preliminary design plans. Approximately 30 people were in .. attendance for the informational meeting. The bulk of the questions which . were raised pertained to the construction of LRT in general, the need for LRT, and the scheduling for construction ofLRT. On December 27, 1990, the Planning Commission reviewed the preliminary design plans and provided comments to the City Council for its consideration (see attached Resolution No. 90-22). A representative from the HCRRA will be in attendance at the public hearing to make a presentation and respond to questions. primary Issues to Consider. o What level of detail is involved in the Preliminary Design Plans? o What is staffs primary concern as related to the preliminary design plans? o What are the size and locations of the two stations? o What are the issues that will have to be addressed in the future for the Second Street station? o What are the issues that will have to be addressed in the future for the Excelsior Boulevard station? o What action did the Planning Commission take? o What action must the City take on the Preliminary Design Plans? supporting Documents. o Analysis of Issues 0 Benshoof memo dated 12/19/90 o Corridor Map 0 Letter from HCRRA dated 12/21/90 ."~.'; 0 .Plannin? Commission which resp~nds to questions and ~esol~t1on No. 90-22 concerns ra1sed by staff. " ~(j; i ; Thomas K. Har , Community Development Director -. . PUBLIC HEARING - LRT CORRIDOR CR: 91-6 '~ Page 2 o What level of detail is involved in the Preliminary Design Plans? The Preliminary Design Plans include the completion of design activities to approximately a 10% level. Preliminary design, as defined in the 1989 state LRT legislation, includes: - the general definition of the horizontal and vertical alignment 'of the track - station platform locations and ancillary station facilities - the yard and shop facilities - the general limits of construction - the relationship of the LRT system to the street system - preliminary internodal coordination plans - a conceptual operating plan of the proposed LRT system - preliminary ridership projections - preliminary cost estimates - funding for final design, construction and operation - discussion regarding implementation method - preliminary handicap access plans Several of the issues which have been identified by the Planning Commission and staff are issues which go beyond the scope of the preliminary design .-,plans. These items, such as landscaping, buffering,i etc., will be dealt with at later design stages. o What is staff's primary concern as related to the preliminary design plans? Staff's main concern with the design plans pertain to traffic impacts, and in particular traffic impacts at the Excelsior Boulevard/T.H. 169 station. Staff requested that Benshoof & Associates briefly review the design plans and identify and summarize issues which should be kept in mind. ~he report prepared by Benshoof is attached. Outlined later in this report is a brief summary of the traffic concerns which have been identified. o What are the ,size and locations of the two stations? There are two stations proposed for Hopkins, one on Second Street N.E. and the second on Excelsior Boulevard. The Comprehensive Plan has identified these locations for light rail stations. The station on Second Street N. E. is the existing si te of Dick Hughes Towing. This property is currently owned by Edco. Edco has expressed concerns regarding the use of this property for an LRT station. The parking area is designed for 135 parking spaces. The station is also designed for 4 bus drop-off areas and 10 drop-off areas for cars. LRT .riders will need to utilize a pedestrian crossing to the platform on the south side of the tracks. ,,",----- _._-,.,-~_._,._-~--.._"....._-,,---.., ..........~-~.~..'-"._.-'--,._..~---~._.:_.-. PUBLIC HEARING - LRT CORRIDOR . CR: 91-6 Page 3 The second station, which is located at T.H. 169 and County Road 3, is much larger and contains 718 parking stalls. This site represents the location of the existing Millwork Inc. and General Resources property. The access to the station is proposed at this time to be from 5th Avenue, Third street South, and an additional access from the off-ramp of T.H. 169. The station is proposed to accommodate 9 buses to drop off riders plus 14 spaces for car rider drop-offs. 0 What are the issues that will have to be addressed in the future for the Second Street station? - Impact of station on residential property to the north. - Traffic concerns and questions. Benshoof & Associates has identified several issues regarding the Second Street station. The following issues are recommended for further study (please see attached report for more detailed information). . Number of access points on Second Street . Need for/desirability of restripping on Second Street . Location of driveway relative to existing parking lot access on north side of Second Street . . Access implications for residential area to the north . Implications of at grade pedestrian crossing . Provision of ped~strian access to/from North Blake Road on south side of railroad tracks . Possibility of sidewalk construction on Second Street - Possible storm sewer issues - Appearance of station and parking lots related to traffic on Second street. Use of aesthetic treatments, landscaping,berming, etc. - Zoning issues - whether LRT is a permitted or conditional use. Currently, the Zoning Ordinance does not specifically address LRT 0 What are issues that will need to be addressed in the future regarding the Excelsior Boulevard station? - Traffic concerns, questions regarding impact of station on County Road 3, 5th Avenue, Third Street, ramps and residential area to the south (Park Valley neighborhood). Benshoof & Associates has identified several traffic issues at the Excelsior Boulevard station. The following are issues which will require further study: . Traffic impacts at the intersection and need for improvements on . 5th Avenue. . Traffic impacts at the intersection of 5th Avenue & Third Street. . Location of driveways relative to existing and future access on south side of Third Street. . Adequacy of spacing of access from Third Street/5th Avenue intersection. -- . ~ - --... -~.- --- ......,.~,,"_."'~.. -'. -" PUBLIC HEARING - LRT CORRIDOR CR: 91-6 . Page 4 . Traffic impacts at Third street/Washington Avenue intersection. . site distance at access on Washington Avenue. . Need for/desirability of a new railroad crossing . Traffic at west and east T.H. 169 ramps. - possible redesign of park and ride lot to allow direct access from County Road 3 to Hennepin County property to the south. This involves a road through the park and ride site for access to the Hennepin County site. - Appearance of station and park and ride lot related to proximity to county Road 3 and T.H. 169. Use of aesthetic treatments, landscaping, berming, etc. - possible storm sewer issues. - Design of park and ride lot and the station as a whole, and the need to consider existing sanitary sewer main running through the site. - zoning issues - whether LRT is a permitted or conditional use. Currently, the Zoning Ordinance does not address LRT in the ordinance. .0 What action did the Planning Commission take on this matter? The Planning commission reviewed the preliminary design plans during, its meeting on December 27, 1990. Ken stevens of the HCRRA was in attendance and provided a brief presentation and answered questions. The Planning Commission reviewed with Mr. stevens the issues which are outlined in this report. It was noted by Mr. stevens that a number of the issues are beyond the scope of the preliminary design plans and will be taken into consideration as a part of the 30% design plans and the 100% design plans. A representative from Edco was in attendance and expressed concerns regarding the proposed Second Street station. The Edco representative indicated that Edcohad purchased the property (Dick Hughes Towing) with the intention that this property serve the future business needs of Edco. The Planning commission requested that the HCRRA and city staff meet with Mr. Edwards to discuss this issue further. After discussion on the matter, the Planning Commission adopted Resolution No. 90-22 which identifies for the City Council those issues which should be taken into consideration as a part of the Council's review of the Preliminary Design Plans as well as future plans. o What action must the City take on the Preliminary Design Plans? .unless an extension were granted, the city Council is required to approve or disapprove the preliminary Design Plans by January 27, 1991. The city Council is scheduled at this time to formally act on the Preliminary Design Plans during its meeting on January 15. PUBLIC HEARING - LRT CORRIDOR CR: 91-6 . Page 5 Upon reviewing state law and discussing this matter with Ken stevens of the HCRRA, the City may be in a position to approve or disapprove of the plans in a fashion which the Council is not normally accustomed to. In this case, unless the City is in a position to approve the Preliminary Design Plans without any conditions, it may be necessary for the City Council to take action which would involve disapproving the plans with the conditions clearly outlined which, if met, would allow the City to approve the plans. Under this type of process, even though the City disapproves the plans subject to a number of conditions, the plans would not be required to be brought back to the Council until the next normally scheduled review period (30% design review). Essentially, the city Council would be approving the plans subject to conditions. staff will continue to investigate this approval process further prior to the Council having to take action on the plans. . ***NOTE - A COpy OF THE PRELIMINARY DESIGN PLANS WERE DISTRIBUTED TO THE CITY COUNCIL IN LATE NOVEMBER. . -_.--. _c-:_ -- ~- ----~- ~ l\iJJ__!l~;' j ."" - - .: ... .. 'ft j) . 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''''. :I.::~':'- :'j : .~" _~..:: !, , I CITY OF HOPKINS Hennepin county, Minnesota 4It RESOLUTION NO. 90-22 COMMENTS FROM THE PLANNING COMMISSION ON THE PRELIMINARY DESIGN PLANS FOR THE SOUTHWEST LIGHT RAIL TRANSIT CORRIDOR WHEREAS, Hennepin county Regional Railroad Authority desires to construct a light rail transit system to service the metropolitan area; and WHEREAS, the preliminary design plan calls for the tracks to run on the existing Soo Line right-of-way through Hopkins with two stations located in Hopkins at 2nd Street N.E. and County Road 3fT.H. 169; and WHEREAS, Hennepin County Regional Railroad Authority held a public hearing regarding these design plans on December 13, 1990; and , WHEREAS, each affected city must hold a public hearing to either approve or disapprove these plans; and WHEREAS, the City of Hopkins has been a strong supporter of light rail transit; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Planning Commission of the tit city of Hopkins that the following items have been identified as issues which should be taken into consideration as part of the city Councils review of the preliminary design plan for the southwest LRT corridor: 1. That all storm sewer issues are resolved. 2. The possible redesign of the County Road 3 park and ride lot to allow direct access from. County Road 3 to Hennepin County property is studied. 3. Appearance of the stations and parking lots as related their to proximity to County Road 3 and Highway 169. Use of aesthetic treatments, landscaping, berming, etc. 4. Appearance of station and parking lot at the 2nd Street station as related to the residential area to the north. Use of aesthetic treatments, landscaping, berming, etc. 5. That the traffic concerns as identified by Benshoof and Associates, are addressed. 6. Coordination with the city and Benshoof of the possible crossing of County road 3 for Super Value . 7. That the responsibility for paying for any necessary roadway improvements, utility relocation, sidewalks, signalization, etc. be addressed. 8. That the HCRRAbe informed that zoning issues will need to be resolved with regard to the locations of the LRT stations. 9: That consideration be given to using rubberized track . at the various roadway/LRT intersections. 10. That the LRT system be designed to provide cathodic protection for adjacent utility lines. Adopted 1990. ~ . . ~.:J I .' t BENSHOOF & ASSOCIATES, INC. TRANSPORTATION AND LAND USE CONSULTANTS December 19, 1990 REFER TO FILE: 90-50 MEMORANDUM TO: tom Harmcillng,~ty of am FROM: James A.Bensh~ & David . .. gan RE: Review of Traffic Issues Relating to Proposed LRT Stations in City of Hopkins PURPOSE AND BACKGROUND The purpose of this memorandum is tosuminarize the results of pur review regarding . preliminary plans for proposed LRTstations in the. City of Hopkins.. Key purposes of our review have been to identify important traffic issues relating to the proposed T.H. 169 and North Blake Road Stations, review available materials regarding previous . analyses of these issues, and offer suggestions as to issues requiring further attention. In order to identify important issues. and review previous study efforts the following steps were conducted: . Pieldobservations at both locations during the a.m. and p.m. peak hour time periods . Review of materials obtained from HCRRA including preliminary analysis, . design drawings, and a traffic impact report prepared by BRW, Inc. . Review of City of Hopkins Comprehensive Plan and issues raised by City of Hopkins staff . Review of Benshoof & Associates' CSAH3 Comdor Study and Southeast Hopkins-Minnetonka Transportation Study Based on these observations and review, issues needing further study have been identified. The remainder of this memorandum will further detail our basis for the identification of issues and provide our recommendations. for further study. , ~._-_.~- ---~ _ _ ___C-<-k,"~><-'._'=______c.,,"-_~~~"""_~-_-'__"H__' --- ~ , "' } (' . 'Mr. Tom Harmening -2- December 19, 1990 , IDENTIFICATION OF TRAFFIC ISSUES Field Observations Field observations were conducted in the area surrounding the proposed stations during the expected a.m. (7-9 a.m.) and p.m. (3-5 p.m~) peak hour time periods. These observations centered on the identification of traffic and design issues related to individual station sites. Specifically, conditions observed included the following: . Traffic operations and turning movement patterns at all adjacent intersections . The potential for vehicle stacking and conflict relative to relationships between proposed site access points and adjacent intersections . . . The potential impact on and provisions for pedestrian access at each proposed site Information from HCRRA A careful review of materials provided by HCRRA was completed in terms of traffic- related issues associated with the proposed stations. Preliminary design analyses and drawings were reviewed to gain knowledge concerning the physical layouts proposed and to identify provisions for effective site-related vehicle and pedestnan movements 1- to, from, and within each station. In addition, an attempt was made to determine if a relationship had been established between the demand for on-site parking and the proposed parking provisions. Any problems with undersized lots may cause undue parking pressures on~street and in residential neighborhood areas. A report conducted by BRW, Inc. regarding traffic operations was reviewed to determine trip generation and distribution characteristics associated with the station sites and to identify any level of service or capacity concerns at nearby and adjacent intersections. The report did not indicate the particular basis for trip generation or distribution projections. The report addressed the T.H. 169 Station, but not the North Blake Road Station. Other Related Materials Materials provided by the City of Hopkins, including the Comprehensive Plan and a summary of staff concerns, further assisted us in the identification of important issues. ') Finally, the content of Benshoof & Associates' materials involving the CSAH 3 I, Corridor Study and the Southeast Hopkins-Minnetonka Transportation Study was reviewed to determine any additional pertinent concerns. . , " .....--... ..- 4'''' , ' ,-.. " Mr. Tom Harmening -3- December 19, 1990 . Traffic Issues Warranting Further Study for T.H. 169 Station . Traffic issues at the T.H. 169 station which need further study are shown in Figure 1. One important issue regarding theT.H. 169 station involves the proposed new at-grade railroad crossing that woUld connect the station with CSAH .3 at the west ramp intersection. This crossing would be just 850 feet east of the existing 5th Ave. crossing and just 1750 feet west of the CSAH 3 crossing. In addition to the existing crossings, two new crossings are being considered in the CSAH .3 corridor study-eastramp intersection and Jackson St. From a traffic safety standpoint, it is important to limit the number of at-:-grade railroad crossings. A need exists to address access for the T.H. 169 station and other properties in the area ina roadway system context. Theobjective is to develop a plan for roadway connections and at-grade railroad crossings that will meet several il1lportant criteria, including: capacity, safety,' and accessibility. An issue relating to the above railroad crossingconcempertains to access to the Hennepin County site on the south side of 3rd Street. When this site is redeveloped in the future, its access needs may be greater than at present. A pertinent question is: If a new at-grade crossing and traffic eonnectionare provided to CSAH 3 at the west ramp intersection, should this connection be extended south to 3rd Street to serve the County. site and other properties in the area? Another issue warranting further study involves traffic operations at intersections adjacent to the T.H. 169.site. Information provided by the HCRRAindicates that work . has begun to address traffic implications at nearby intersections, but more study of such effects is needed. Five particular limitations of information provided by the HCRRA . that need to be. resolved through further study are: . 1985. traffic counts were used as a basis for the analysis . The particular basis for trip generation and trip distribution projections was not expressed . Trips approaching the T.H. 169 station from the south and southwest were not addressed . The analysis did not account for redevelopment of the Hennepin County property, nor the anticipated expansion of Super Valu . The intersections of Third Street with 5th Ave. and Washington Ave. were not \ addressed The question of stacking, particularly near the intersection of Fifth Ave. and Third St., should be examined. The large number of semi-trailer trucks and other vehicles utilizing this intersection during the am and pm peak periods may result in queues which would cause conflicts and reduce the capacity of the two southw~sterly driveways for the T.H. 169 station. , "'. \ , W>- U .c( ~~ le t;~ ~z - 0:: ~ C C .c( W I- ~ ooQ 0:: ~.c( w.... en ::>< co .... 00.... ~~ ~oo en I- ~ Um I- -<0 ten 'w u.~ .c(-.c( a: u. o..W ~c ::> <. - Z C) a::I; U .c( ........ U:I- u: ~ en en .c(w Z l=?; .c( ;.J 0.. Z CI i3 C >- a: .c( Z ~ ~ >- ....0 0.. t: a:::> en ..Jt; ~ 00, f!: zz -0 ;.J ~- ;( D-~ a: Z !i: 0.... 0 CI :I: 00 ) Wen :J z~z ~ -0..0 0 Cllhxt= 0:: zzw.c( ~ EZcffi c o::wzo.. W .c(:I:c(0 Z Cl~;.J ;( WOW:;> t; 0:: I- U ;.J enzo::.c( 0 C:I: ZWc(> Q. enz5 O~o..o:: c( >- .c( 0 t=Q.~w ~ '11I .c( CI en .c(g ~ Z O~ ~~Z UW:;>en g ~~ ~~o~ > t; 0 ~ C U 0 ffi ui~ C2x~..= C Wo cWwen t(~ ~oU'O o I- U 0- 00 -Ill Zwc(C') 0::1 O>W~ Z 00 --0::0 s;2 Cf)z ~~~~ j D- ~~ UW:;>_ 0 go::~en oIj< :I: u.~ ~ u. o~ 0 o~ en J:o t ~ Cf)Oo c( Z z~ 0.. 0 w< ~5 () ml!: UW u:~ ~w .c(t- , 1=:; 0 . ,1,1 i " "- Mr. Tom Harmening -4- December 19, 1990 . Traffic Issues Warranting Further Study for North Blake Road Station . Figure 2 illustrates issues at the North Blake Road station which we believe need further study. An issue of pedestrian traffic arises in regards to proposed plans for the North Blake Road station. Plans call for an at-grade pedestrian crossing of the Soo Line tracks. Further, the subject of access provisions for pedestrians north of Second St. need further consideration. There are currently no sidewalks on the north or south sides of Second St. to accommodate pedestrians to and from the residential area to the north. Another pedestrian issue involves access for persons along Blake Road south of the railroad tracks. A direct pedestrian connection to the LRT station is needed from Blake Rd. south of the tracks. Without such a connection, users would have to walk a much greater distance north to Second St., west on Second St. to the station, and then south through the station I s parking lot. The number and location of driveways on Second St. is another issue that needs to be addressed. The proposal to provide four driveways along the 320 foot frontage of the site may cause undue conflicts for traffic on Second St. RECOMMENDATIONS FOR FURmER STUDY T.H. 169 Station . The question of an access to this station from the west TH 169 ramp deserves careful attention. The number of at-grade railroad crossings along CSAH 3 is a matter that . will significantly affect the efficiency and safety of travel along the corridor. We would recommend that a traffic analysis addressing the .need for and desirability of this access be conducted following a three step process: . Identification of AltemativeRoadway Network and Access Plans . Traffic Forecasts for Identified Alternatives . Traffic Analysis to Identify Preferred Plan Identification of Alternative Roadway Network and Access Plans - The central issue in the identification of alternatives for this access involve providing safe and efficient traffic operations for the LRT station and other nearby properties. All reasonable options for achieving this goal should be considered. Three possible options are: . The traffic plan as presented in preliminary design drawings. (With all driveways including the at-grade railroad crossing at the west TH 169 ramp) . A concept without the at-grade crossing at the west TH 169 ramp but instead featuring a frontage road design. This frontage road would begin on Third St. just east of the Fifth Ave.lThird St. intersection and terminate on CSAH 3 at the east TH 169 ramp. (This plan would entail an at-grade railroad crossing at .. the east TH 169 ramp) . According to the traffic plan presented in preliminary design drawings but including a connection through the LRT site from CSAH 3 to Third St. " , . .. ' '. ....0 ~ ~~ 000 i .. wa: :Jwz I ~ oo~o I oo~_ -..J.... \j!: \lfP N Um~ C W -:I:.... a: tl:....oo :J ~a:.... a: 0:: (!) a:0a: o 0 LL Z s> CIl u: ....Z..J ~ 0 z < o I- ...I I=~ a.. < 0:: Z o < !) C) ::;... en a.. < ~ w ~ - ~ 0 - I- > CIl.Z Z 0 CIl < 0:: CIlW > O. < we <C)CIlt; 0:: OCll 'I- Z Ow =:zCll11 00 0 :lE <0:: w-w 0:: < ::: t; 0 C'l z~o irl >- O::XOLL < ::5 0:: 0:: ....0 O,W < 0 - ...I a.. LLOI-W 0:: m ;( I- a::J ol-ge I- '0:: en ..J.... ZWC)CIl 13zLL Z 0000 2 > z'x . O~o < ~ g l': t::::::; 0:: zz 1-1=-1- I- <<::':0:: ~Q ...: 0...10::0 o l!:: en '. . ...I OW<z zo~ ;( a..... CIl ... 0:: a.. 0:: ~ 11 o l- I- O.~ -CIl::l :1:.... ..JC'l CIl CIl 0 :r mz :> w CIl C) 00 <0 OOz ::; !:E C) 0::00 ~ 0..< cr. z 0 w_ 0:: e~ LL 0::0:: 0 o I- w LLCIl Z o~ ~ wLL ~O 0 a.. Iw < Ie ~ 'VJ < z OlZ CIl 0:: C) z~ CIl ...: C) C) en ::.: ...: w CIl ..:. ~ ~::J W enVJ g 11 <CIl 0 ...I CIl LL CIl Wz < 11 < C'l o ~ !;(8 =: C'l LL Z CIl 0 en _w Wz o 0 O~ e 0 0:: CIl I Z Z Z 00 CIl Z w l- to < ~ en~ m z I=ii: LL 0 ~ - <I- a. eno o _ ::l 0 ~ t; o CIl <z Z a.. ::;w 0 ~< 0..0 ::;::l ~w :I: u.~ m ~ _ a.. LL O~ - CIl CIl Z 0 01-' 80 :ca: a.. 0 I ~ en~ I z~ I w< ') U 1:01: b Mr. Tom Harmening -5- December 19, 1990 , Traffic Forecasts - Traffic forecasts would then be developed as a basis for analyzing each alternative. This analysis would focus on the ability of the roadway network to safely and efficiently accommodate'traffic associated with the LRT station and nearby properties. To develop these forecasts, we would propose that 1989 traffic counts for the west TH 169 Ramp/CSAH 3 and Fifth Ave.lCSAH 3 intersections, available from Hennepin County, and 1990 counts observed at the Fifth A ve.lThird St.and Washington A ve.lThird St. intersections, observed as part of the CSAH 3 Corridor Study, be utilized to provide baseline traffic volumes. An appropriate growth factor would be established and applied to baseline volumes to reflect expected 1995 traffic projections. A sound basis for station-related trip generation and distribution would also be established. Trip generation figures for the LRT station would be added to the 1995 projected volumes. In addition, the redevelopment of the Hennepin County property to the south of Third St. and the proposed expansion of the Super Valu operations should be taken into account. Expected traffic from these two sources would also be added to the 1995 projections. The addition of traffic relating both to theLRT station and other nearby development will provide a more accurate picture of expected future conditions. In conjunction with an appropriate trip distribution pattern, these trip generation figures woulct be assigned to the local traffic network. This assignment, to the point of . specific turn movements at all affected intersections, would be based on the most efficient and convenient travel routes and on characteristics of the individual traffic plan under review. . Analysis of Alternatives - As noted, the analysis of particular alternative traffic plans would be conducted regarding the ability of the roadway network to adequately accommodate traffic associated with both the LRT station and nearby properties.' To this end, the merits of each alternative would be judged on the basis of its resulting effects on roadway and intersection capacity, delay, and safety. Thorough analysis of each plan would culminate in the identification of a single preferred plan which best addresses these concerns. It is important to note that the resultant traffic plan needs to be fully coordinated with objectives and strategies developed in the CSAH 3 Corridor Study. Such careful coordination would help to ensure the consistent application of sound traffic operation throughout the area. I North Blake Road Station Issues regarding the North Blake Road Station fall into two major categories: . Vehic1e operations on Second Street . Pedestrian access from areas both south and north of the station , '"... , . " . . Mr. Tom Harmening -6- December 19, 1990 .. Vehicle Operations on Second Street - One issue concerning the number and location of proposed driveways serving this site should be examined. Specificallr;' we believe that four individual access points along the 320 foot frontage likely wou d not be needed. While recognizing a desire to separate bus traffic from other vehicles, we ,. would suggest that altematives be examined to reduce the number of site driveways. One option to accomplish this improvement would involve two site driveways. Both buses and automobiles would access and exit the site using the same driveways. However the buses, upon entering the site, would be quickly routed to the outside edge of the parcel and separated from automobile traffic at this point. They would then continue in an exclusive bus lane around the periphery of the site to allow unrestricted loading and unloading. The bus operations would occur in a counter-clockwise direction, instead of the clockwise pattem shown on the current plans. Finally, the buses would merge with automobile traffic before exiting from a shared driveway. This should prove an efficient and effective means for limiting the number of access points required on Second St. while allowing a separated circulation pattem within the site. This concept and, possibly, other options should be analyzed in order to determine a preferred plan. An additional issue which deserves consideration is general traffic operations on Second St. Recognizing the need for left turn movements by westbound vehicles entering the station and eastbound vehicles entering the parking lot 011 the north side of Second St., an alternative lane assignment may be appropriate. We suggest an examination to determine the desirability of operating Second St. under a three lane design. One lane . would be provided for eastbound and westbound through movements while the center lane would be a two-way left turn lane. . Pedestrian Access - An important issue to be addressed concerning this station involves provisions for pedestrian access. Residential areas north of Second Street and the south of the LRT station will be poorly served given proposed desigl1 plans and existing conditions. In addition, the proposed at-grade pedestrian crossing of the SooLine tracks at this station may be undesirable. To serve residential areas north of Second Street, we recommend that possibilities for providing sidewalks along Second St. and a crosswalk adjacent to the station be examined. The possibility of a sidewalk on the south side of the railroad tracks connecting the LRT station with an existing sidewalk on the west side of North Blake Road also should be closely considered. This walkway would allow for safe and more convenient access for pedestrians to and from areas south of the LRT station. We further recommend that the desirability of an at-grade pedestrian crossing of the Soo Line tracks be carefully examined relative to the potential merits for a grade separated crossing. We believe that the implications of this crossing in terms of safety considerations would be significant and warrant additional study. '. . ,- . -. . HENNEPIN COUNTY REGIONAL RAILROAD AUTHORITY Southwest Street Level Government Center, Minneapolis, MN. 55487-0016612/348-9260 Fax. 612/348-9710 December 21, 1990 Mr. Steve Mielke, city Manager City of Hopkins 1010rirst Street South Hopkins, MN 55343 Re: Response to LRT Concerns Dear Mr. Mielke: The attached information references our meeting of August 31, 1990, at . which time the city staff submitted a series of written questions. Although we have discussed some of the issues at ,length and some are answered in the technical memo or design plan, the information provided will confirm our discussions. Please bear in mind that the preliminary design plans are by definition not final designs. The principal items included are alignment, grade, station locations and function. Items ,such as landscaping, station finishing, and engineering details will be completed during preliminary engineering and final design~ As you know, the city also has a final design approval authority. stevens, Director Transit Enclosure . BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS Mark Andrew John E. Derus Tad Jude Jeff Spartz Randy Johnson John Keefe Sam S. Sivanich Chairman Vice Chairman Treasurer Secretary ,_. ,--,-, ~'- - "."',. ..", ~, . ___.. _ _..__' ~ ._-,__'c.'_ ".,. __ ~_ ,._l,~- "~_'c_.' ___._. 'u~...-.- --- ,- ~.,-~...,. '-- .,- f..~._._ __ . ~. . . . . Response to Hopkins Second Street Station: 0 Traffic concerns" on Second Street: The potential traffic impact to the city street system as a result of this station will be minor. Trip generation at the site will be about 264 vehicle trips per hour during the afternoon peak hour. Traffic generated will approach the station from the east, via Blake Road and Second Street, or from the west, via Tyler Avenue and Second street. The intersection most likely to be affected is Blake Road and Second Street. This intersection is signalized and currently operates . under capacity. Analysis shows that with the station, the intersection would continue to operate under capacity. 0 Sidewalks on Second Street: station plans call for six foot sidewalks along Second Street (industrial zone). 0 Impacts to Residential Property: Impacts will be analyzed in preliminary engineering to determine what mitigation, if any, is required. 0 Access Points on Second Street: CUrrent plans show the adjacent access points on both sides of street. 0 zoning Issue: HCRRA will attempt to meet all zoning ordinances; if variance is required, HCRRA will comply with appropriate review and approval process. 0 Station Enclosures: Station platform will have canopies but will not be fully enclosed. Heated shelters, whose size will be dependent upon demand, will be provided. . 0 Storm Sewers: All storm runoffs and sewer sizing will conform to city ordinances and good' engineering practice. , t.,. . . 0 Excelsior Boulevard Access: with existing development along Excelsior Boulevard and the existing street access off Second street, it is not necessary to consider direct access to Excelsior Boulevard from the station site. Excelsior Boulevard Station: 0 Traffic Concerns: See attached traffic analysis which concludes there is no significant traffic impacts. 0 Access Through Station Site to Third Avenue: HCRRA believes that this access would create operational and safety problems for the light rail operations and parking facility. In addition, the reduction in parking . spaces and bus lllovement restriction cou.ld impact ridership for the system. Crossings: 0 In general, the state of the art materials will be used which have proven quali ty and long li fe in our envi ronment. Standard railway crossing protection will be used as required. General Comments: 0 Impact of LRT on adjacent property: preliminary engineering will include impact analysis for adjacent property with recommended mitigation, if any. 0 Cathodic Protection: Utility guidelines and recommendations will be provided during preliminary engineering. 0 Grade Changes: For at-grade construction, the preferred maximum grade of 4% . and an absolute maximum of 6%. . :. ~ ... ~. 4 ,~. -. . a[((~ /j c- ( !,.-.... . . tv'~ .A. /.. ), ! -., (''''0 , , . :' I I . PRELIMINARY DESIGN PLANS SOUTHWEST LRT CORRIDOR IN HOP~INS PRELIMINARY STAFF COMMENTS/QUESTIONS I. Proposed Stations. A. Second Street N.E. ~,.~ .... 'n, Traffic concerns on 2nd Street - .' t _, .,:,) i" " / I -~_.-. I 0 .. ( Need for sidewalks on 2nd street-jc: ."" ' ~.. ; J lI\A~"'fM',::,~ If .,>.:..1.,1 ~'..~:. :...~ .': ~.~'o 0 'Impact of station on residential property to ; ,:.;; .' ...._~ '. t north. Need to consider buffering/berming, etc. - , ~-" .- .J ,~ '. J 0 Proposed access points on 2nd Street as related ".,'" to existing access points across street. .-- 0 Zoning issues including setbacks of parking area (may be a 50 ft. requirement due to proximity of adjacent residential property), whether parking areas and stations are permitted or conditional uses. 0 will the station be an enclosed structure, platform? I. ; ....' .(.;,1 0 Loss of tax base due to 'conversion to tax exempt status. 0 Any storm sewer issues. . 0 possible provision of a more direct access to station from Excelsior Boulevard. B. County Road 3 & T.H. 169 0 Traffic concerns, questions re: impact of station on County Road 3, 5th Avenue, 3rd Street, Ramps and residential area to the south (Park Valley neighborhood) 0 possible redesign of park and ride lot to allow direct access from County Road 3 to Hennepin County property to south. 0 Appearance of station and parking lot as related to proximity to Co. Rd. 3 & T.H. 169. Use of aesthetic treatments, landscaping, berming, etc. 0 possible storm sewer issues. 0 Will station be an enclosed structure, platform? 0 Loss of tax base due to conversion to tax exempt status. 0 Zoning issues including setbacks, whether parking areas and station are allowed as a permitted or condit-ional use, etc. 0 status of acquisition of property. Staff has concern re: appearance of property. When will County purchase and make improvements. . ,....._._~'. _' .__'.~~. ....- _'-'___.'_o" _.... "-.- _._~-~_.. ,------..~. 1-' ...' , -. '" .*, . f . . II. Crossinqs. 0 Use of rubberized track at intersections. 0 What types of signage, gates will be used? 0 What would be the frequency of trains? 0 General traffic concerns ! ,.{ ""-0 Coordination with potential crossing of Co. Rd. 3 / \ for Super Valu. Current study being undertaken .- ,. ,;"..; '.Y" \- by Benshoof & Associates. ~' III. General Comments. 0 Status of use of CNW line vs. Soo line. '0 Impact of LRT on adjacent residential areas. Is any buffering, screening, etc. proposed? 0 Cathodic protection for adjacent utility lin~s. 0 How extensive can grade changes be? 0 Have major concern re: future crossing of Co. Rd. 3 at T.H. 169 to allow for extension of norther route. 0 strongly advocate realignment of northern route to 9th Ave. as per the Bakker study. 0 As part of realignment of northern route to 9th Avenue, also suggest that consideration be given to a LRT stop in Downtown Hopkins. Also suggest consideration for full movement intersections at . 9th Avenue and 1st street North and South and Mainstreet. LRTCMTS . - ~'~-p" --:0,.__..,_ '--:"-~,_ ._0.0>..-:..... ,-----,~-=-~.. ,~._...~.___~~_____. - -