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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2007/02/26 - ADMIN - Agenda Packets - City Council - Study SessionCity Council Study Session February 26, 2007 7:00 PM City Hall Council Chambers Discussion Items Approximate Times 1. 7:00 pm Police Advisory Commission (PAC) Annual Report 2. 7:30 pm Comp Plan Update Process 3. 8:00 pm SW LRT Trail Crossing Update (Beltline & Wooddale) 4. 8:30 pm Parks & Recreation Advisory Commission (PRAC) Annual Report 5. 8:45 pm Process for Setting Future Study Session Agenda 6. 9:00 pm Future Agenda Planning Written Reports 7. Marketing & Branding Update 8. W. 36th Street Art Update 9:10 p.m. Adjourn Auxiliary aids for individuals with disabilities are available upon request. To make arrangements, please call the Administrative Services Department at (952) 924-2525 (TDD (952) 924-2518) at least 96 hours in advance of meeting. St. Louis Park City Council Study Session Discussion Item: 022607 - 1 - Police Advisory Commission 2006 Annual Report Page 1 1. Police Advisory Commission Annual Report Police Department PURPOSE OF DISCUSSION: The Police Advisory Commission (PAC) will meet with the City Council at the February 26, 2007, study session to conduct the business of annual reporting. Commission members attending anticipate the following topics of discussion with the Council: • Review 2006 activities and experiences • Outline plans for 2007 • Receive direction from Council • Answer questions from Council The attached 2006 Annual Report from the PAC will assist the Council in preparing for the above discussion topics and any related areas of interest to the Council. Attachment: 2006 PAC Annual Report Prepared by: John D. Luse, Chief of Police Approved by: Nancy Gohman, Deputy City Manager St. Louis Park City Council Study Session Discussion Item: 022607 - 1 - Police Advisory Commission 2006 Annual Report Page 2 Police Advisory Commission Report to City Council 2007 The Police Advisory Commission continues its work mainly through subcommittees. The current subcommittees are: Traffic, Police Citizens Academy, and Community Partnerships (which has incorporated the Publicity subcommittee). The PAC had a great deal of turnover of membership in 2006. As of this writing, we are one short of our full compliment and that is better off than we have been in awhile. Due to this turnover in membership, it has been challenging to gain traction on some of the issues before us. 2006 Highlights Com. Kim Aune made a presentation to the Block Captain Advisory Council in February about the PAC. The focus was telling the Block Captains about the work of the PAC, particularly making them aware of the Traffic Subcommittee and the ongoing Police Citizens Academy. The Police Citizens Academy ran for the second time in 2006, with two five-week sessions held in the spring and continuing in the fall. The academy was advertised in both the Sun Sailor and the Park Perspective and had approximately 18 students enrolled. Commissioners from the PAC took turns being in attendance at each session. Several of the new commissioners were able to attend the academy as well, giving them a good foundation for their work on the commission. Following direction from the City Council, the PAC established a relationship with Human Rights Commission. In July, Com. Gormley attended a Somali forum that was organized by the Human Rights Commission. Com. Altorfer agreed to attend the HRC meetings on behalf of the PAC, but then moved to Iowa. Com. Aune agreed to attend the HRC meetings, but has since resigned from the Commission. Com. Swiderski has agreed to attend the HRC meetings in 2007. This is one illustration of the difficulty membership turnover has made to the work of the PAC in 2006. Education efforts continued in 2006 with the development of the Roll Call program for the city’s cable television station. The first program featured traffic issues and the second program focused on the DARE program. In July the PAC explored holding a golf tournament to benefit the Crime Fund. Unfortunately, we got going too late in the year for it to happen in 2006 but we plan to hold a tournament in September of 2007. The Traffic subcommittee continues its work on traffic issues as they relate to the police department. A representative from the Public Works Department attends these meetings to be a resource for the subcommittee members. St. Louis Park City Council Study Session Discussion Item: 022607 - 1 - Police Advisory Commission 2006 Annual Report Page 3 Known Projects for 2007  Develop an abbreviated version of the Police Citizens Academy catered to special populations.  Hold a golf tournament as a fund-raiser for the Crime Fund.  Work with the Human Rights Commission on areas that are of parallel interest.  Continue to work on traffic-related issues.  Continue the Police Citizens Academy. Respectfully submitted, Maureen Gormley Police Advisory Commission, Chair 2007 St. Louis Park City Council Study Session Discussion Item: 022607 - 2 - 2008 Comprehensive Plan Update Page 1 2. 2008 Comprehensive Plan Update Community Development PURPOSE OF DISCUSSION: To provide the City Council with an overview of the proposed process for updating the City’s Comprehensive Plan. State law requires comprehensive plans to be updated by the end of 2008. While no specific policy question needs to be answered by the Council at this time, staff is interested in receiving any feedback the Council may have on the proposed approach. WHAT IS A COMPREHENSIVE PLAN? • A Comprehensive Plan carries out the City’s future vision. • Is the City’s written goals and policy document. • Looks at the city as a whole to help make decisions that are coordinated and will avoid future problems. • Sets goals, policies and direction in a comprehensive manner and sets a clear image of the values the city as a governing body wants to achieve. • Functions as a touchstone and a framework for achieving the city’s goals, as well as guiding daily and weekly decisions. WHAT DOES A COMPREHENSIVE PLAN INCLUDE? A community’s plan can include any policy and topical areas the city chooses. Certain subjects are required by State law to be addressed, including land use, housing, surface water management, and public facilities. In addition, St. Louis Park’s current plan includes such areas as Economic Development, Livable Communities and Plan by Neighborhood. For the required items, the plan is submitted to the Metropolitan Council for review every 10 years – the next update is due on December 31, 2008. The Metropolitan Council reviews each community’s plan for consistency with regional systems of aviation, transportation, regional parks, and water resources management. The Council either works with the community on revisions, or formally takes action to allow the city to “place the plan into effect.” CURRENT LONG RANGE PLANNING: Currently city staff is working on a number of studies that will be a part of the Comprehensive Plan or will provide background for policy decisions in the Plan. These include: Wooddale/Hwy 7 Study – Currently the city is working with SRF transportation engineers to study the traffic surrounding Wooddale Avenue and Highway 7 and carry out the necessary background and design work to construct an overpass over the intersection. Some of this work will be on-going, as there are several portions to the work that need to be completed. As a part of the study, SRF is updating information for all of the traffic analysis zones (TAZs) in the city. This information will allow us to analyze the roadway system for the entire city, identify issues and note where further analysis or changes will be needed. St. Louis Park City Council Study Session Discussion Item: 022607 - 2 - 2008 Comprehensive Plan Update Page 2 Active Living – As a part of the Blue Cross/Blue Shield funding for Active Living, the city is updating the sidewalks, trails, bicycle and transit access plans for the city. These plans will identify gaps in our system and prioritize areas for improvement, allowing better access for non-automobile movement throughout the city. It is intended these plans will become part of the Comprehensive Plan. Highway 100 full build plans – City staff continues to work with MnDOT on the design of the full build of Highway 100. This transportation improvement will affect the city for decades to come. Decisions affecting local and regional access are involved in this planning process. MnPASS on I394 - MnDOT has received some funding to conduct a study on what should be the next phase for MnPASS lanes. Ideas for increasing the capacity in the future include transit lanes and stops in the center of the freeway. Land use and pedestrian access become key local elements affecting the planning in the surrounding communities. Southwest Transit – The next phase in Southwest Transit planning is to conduct a Draft Environmental Impact Statement on the routes chosen for further consideration: 1A, 3A and 3C. This process is expected to take 1-2 years of time and will involve much more detailed planning for the line and stations. Freight rail study – Hennepin County Regional Rail Authority may be conducting a study of the freight rail lines, as it appears the tracks are in need of upgrading. This would include some involvement of St. Louis Park; the study is not yet initiated. Industrial Land Use Study – As a part of our land use and redevelopment planning, the city is studying several industrial areas for analysis of the market, the future for land use and positioning the areas to meet the future. The results of this study will enable the city to make decisions regarding the future of the industrial areas. UPDATING ST. LOUIS PARK’S PLAN: Comprehensive planning is an on-going process. A Comprehensive Plan may be amended or updated at any time. The most commonly occurring amendment is when there is a change to the land use map designation of a property. This usually is at the request of a property owner and analyzed by the city. (Each year, the city typically has several requests that are evaluated on a case-by-case basis.) The 2008 requirement to update the plan helps communities to focus efforts and keep plans current. The Table of Contents for St. Louis Park’s Comprehensive Plan is attached. It shows the chapters and topical areas. Recently the city updated the Water Supply Plan in response to new federal government requirements for emergency planning. Likewise, the city also updated the Housing Chapter in 2005 following the Housing Summit, to reflect the new data and policies that it produced. St. Louis Park City Council Study Session Discussion Item: 022607 - 2 - 2008 Comprehensive Plan Update Page 3 In addition, the city has recently completed the community Visioning process. This process is often the first step toward updating a community’s overall plan. It sets the stage or framework for all of the other areas. The intent in our 2008 update is to integrate the vision elements into the various chapters of the plan as appropriate, and/or address new areas as needed. The general process for updating each of the chapters in the Plan is to collect the most current available information and data for review and analysis. This information will be analyz ed to determine how that data impacts or affects related goals and policies. Policy issues and questions will be forwarded to the appropriate groups for further review discussion, input and recommendations. Following the appropriate public input process and public hearings, recommendations will be forwarded to the City Council for adoption. The Planning Commission is recommended as the group to be the primary conduit and advisor to the City Council for the updates to the Plan. In some areas, such as Active Living, it will be proposed that an additional advisory group be appointed for this particular subject. In other areas, such as Housing or Parks, the existing Housing Authority and Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission will become an advisory group on its particular subject area. As other special needs arise, there may be need for additional groups to be utilized or advisory or task force groups to be formed. Throughout the process, public input will be invited and encouraged. This typically includes public open houses, newspaper and newsletter articles, public hearings and the like. In addition, it is proposed that we much more fully and creatively use both the city’s website and cable tv channel to reach out to many more citizens and make participation easier and information much more readily available. TIMING: In 2007, several on-going studies will continue feeding into the Comprehensive Plan update. Since much of the current work surrounds transportation planning, it is appropriate to begin studying transportation on a city-wide basis in 2007. Other areas that may be fairly easily updated in terms of information and data are the utility chapters: water (recently updated), sanitary sewer, surface water management and the parks and recreation element. It is expected that in 2007 these areas can be substantially updated. Some chapters appear to need more specific attention and/or a more specific process for public input. These include the Redevelopment chapter, Plan by Neighborhood chapter and the Livable Communities chapter. All are in need of more substantial updates. These are proposed to be addressed in the second year of the planning process, 2008. The Industrial Study will play a big part in the Redevelopment chapter; other areas for redevelopment will need additional study as well. The Livable Communities chapter will likely be expanded and revised to incorporate some of the Vision elements such as gathering spaces, arts and culture, and community events. St. Louis Park City Council Study Session Discussion Item: 022607 - 2 - 2008 Comprehensive Plan Update Page 4 SUMMARY OF COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 2008 UPDATE PROCESS: In 2007, we are beginning the process of updating the Comprehensive Plan. Initially, the emphasis will be on information gathering and data updating. Any policy questions that emerge will be forwarded for additional discussion and process. In 2008, more substantial time will be spent on specific areas of the plan, for redevelopment sites, neighborhood planning and attention to being a “livable” community. The Planning Commission is proposed as the primary advisory group for the update, with other commissions and groups utilized as appropriate for the subject matter. Attachment: Table of Contents, St. Louis Park Comprehensive Plan 2000-2020 Prepared by: Meg J. McMonigal, Planning and Zoning Supervisor Approved by: Tom Harmening, City Manager St. Louis Park City Council Study Session Discussion Item: 022607 - 2 - 2008 Comprehensive Plan Update Page 5 Comprehensive Plan 2000-2020 Section Chapter I. Introduction A. Introduction II. Community Background B. Community Background III. Land Use C. Overall Land Use D. Housing E. Commercial/Industrial F. Parks and Open Space G. Public Use H. Environmental Resources IV. Public Facilities I. Transportation J. Aviation Plan K. Water Supply Plan L. Sewer Plan and Solid Waste M. Surface Water Management N. Public Health and Safety V. Economic Development O. Economic Growth and Employment P. Redevelopment VI. Intergovernmental Coordination Q. Intergovernmental Coordination VII. Urban Form and Community R. Livable Communities S. Historic Preservation T. Communication VIII. Plan By Neighborhood U. Plan By Neighborhood St. Louis Park City Council Study Session Discussion Item: 022607 - 3 - SW LRT Street Crossings Beltline and Wooddale Page 1 3. SW LRT Trail Street Crossings at Beltline Blvd and Wooddale Ave. Public Works PURPOSE OF DISCUSSION: To provide the City Council with information requested at a previous Study Session and allow staff the opportunity to obtain direction on specific crossing improvements desired by Council, if any. BACKGROUND: At the November 27, 2006 Study Session, the City Council received and reviewed a report from staff that provided relevant background information and possible changes which could be considered for the SWLRT Regional Trail crossings on Beltline Boulevard and Wooddale Avenue. At the Study Session, Council discussed possible street crossing options, safety, and long term improvements at these crossing locations and provided input to staff. Before final deliberations on possible options, Council requested further information regarding the following areas: 1. Beltline Boulevard a. Obtain information regarding the feasibility, cost, and schedule to relocate the existing railroad crossing warning signals associated with a median / refuge installation and widening of the roadway. b. Request additional information regarding the Three Rivers Park District trail/street grade separation project funded for 2010. 2. Wooddale Avenue a. Obtain information regarding the feasibility, cost, and schedule to relocate the existing railroad crossing warning signals associated with a median / refuge installation and widening of the roadway. b. Check into the possibility of prohibiting right turns on red from eastbound Hwy 7 to southbound Wooddale Ave. c. Request additional information regarding Park District plans for a trail/street grade separation project. INFORMATION OBTAINED: The following information was obtained in discussions with Mn/DOT, CP Railroad, and Three Rivers Park District staff: 1. Beltline Boulevard a. The railroad can relocate the existing railroad crossing warning signals this spring (given adequate notice) at an approximate cost of $100,000 (a detailed estimate is currently being developed by the railroad). b. There is no additional information regarding the Park District trail/street grade separation project at this time. 2. Wooddale Avenue a. It has been determined it is not necessary to relocate the existing railroad crossing warning signals to install a median / refuge with roadway widening. St. Louis Park City Council Study Session Discussion Item: 022607 - 3 - SW LRT Street Crossings Beltline and Wooddale Page 2 b. A right turn on red prohibition from eastbound Hwy 7 to southbound Wooddale Ave. may be requested by the city. It is possible Mn/DOT will approve this request, but the prohibition will likely be limited to peak hour periods only. Mn/DOT does not like these prohibitions as motorists generally do not obey them. c. There is no additional information regarding a Park District trail/street grade separation project at this time. The district has reiterated its desire to participate in the Hwy 7 / Wooddale interchange project development process so trail crossing needs can be included in that project. CURRENT OPTIONS AVAILABLE: Based on the earlier Study Session discussion and the most current information available, it appears the following crossing improvement options can be considered on a short term or interim basis: Beltline Blvd Available Interim Improvement Options Estimated Cost Earliest Possible Completion Date 1 - Install a pedestrian actuated traffic signal (signal- ized crosswalk) $100,000 Summer 2008 2 - Widen road and install a raised 12’ wide median: - raised median, striping, paving, etc. - RR signal relocation and crossing surface extension $105,000 $125,000 $230,000 Summer 2007 Summer 2007 3 - Install a 6’ wide raised median: - raised median, striping, paving, etc. $20,000 Spring 2007 Wooddale Ave Available Interim Improvement Options Estimated Cost Earliest Possible Completion Date 1 - Realign the trail and crossing north to the south side of Hwy 7 $45,000 Summer 2007 2 - Install a raised 12’ wide median: - raised median, striping, paving, etc. - RR crossing surface extension $35,000 $25,000 $60,000 Summer 2007 Summer 2007 3 - Install a raised 6’ wide median: - raised median, striping, paving, etc. $20,000 Spring 2007 4 - Install a signed and marked 6’ wide median: (same as Beltline Blvd currently exists) $10,000 Spring 2007 All of the above options were identified and described in the SRF report late last year. St. Louis Park City Council Study Session Discussion Item: 022607 - 3 - SW LRT Street Crossings Beltline and Wooddale Page 3 FINANCIAL CONSIDERATIONS: The current Capital Improvement program contains a project (#20072700) tentatively scheduled for 2007 for possible trail crossing improvements at these crossings. This project estimates possible costs at $250,000; however, funding was not budgeted nor specified for this project due to its speculative nature at the time. The Finance Department has been consulted to evaluate what funding sources and amounts, if any, might be available for a capital project such as this. They have determined that all normally available funds have already been programmed or budgeted. However, it may be possible to fund improvements from the Permanent Improvement Revolving (PIR) Fund, General Fund reserves, or potentially from Tax Increment Financing funds. In addition, limited funding in the amount of $20,000 can be obtained from the Public Works Operations Budget for trail crossing improvements in 2007. Public Works staff has also researched the availability of outside funds for this work. Three Rivers Parks District staff has previously stated they do not participate in crossing improvements (such as contemplated above); however, they may participate in trail realignment costs such as proposed at the Wooddale Ave crossing. If that option is desired by the city, we will need to submit a funding request for their consideration. In addition, a new federal program, the Non- Motorized Transportation Pilot Program, could possibly provide funding for any of the above identified improvements. Unfortunately, due to application and project development requirements, improvements done under this program could not be started and completed until 2008 at the earliest. This funding source could possibly work if a signalized pedestrian crossing is desired at Beltline Blvd as that project can not be completed in 2007 anyway due to its complexity. In summary, it does not appear outside funding is available for any improvements desired in 2007 other than possibly the trail realignment option at Wooddale Ave. STAFF EVALUATION and PROPOSED ACTIONS: The median (signs and markings) installed on Beltline Blvd in 2006 has received satisfactory comments to date and, based on this feedback, staff proposes to maintain the Beltline Blvd crossing as it currently exists. In addition, staff proposes to install a similar median (signs and markings) on Wooddale Ave. this spring funded by the Public Works Operations Budget ($10,000). Council will be asked to formally approve any crossing changes made at Wooddale Ave. POLICY QUESTIONS: Beltline Blvd 1. Should staff continue to maintain the Beltline Blvd crossing as it currently exists or would Council like to see one of the three improvements identified above pursued? 2. If an improvement is desired at Beltline Blvd, should that be completed in 2007 at city cost or should outside funds be pursued for a future project? St. Louis Park City Council Study Session Discussion Item: 022607 - 3 - SW LRT Street Crossings Beltline and Wooddale Page 4 Wooddale Ave 1. Staff is prepared to request Council approval for the installation of a signed and marked 6’ wide median on Wooddale Ave this spring; does Council desire staff to pursue one of the other crossing improvement options at Wooddale Ave? 2. If a crossing improvement, other than the one proposed by staff, is desired at Wooddale Ave, should that be completed in 2007 at city cost or should outside funds be pursued for a future project? 3. Does Council desire staff to request a right turn on red prohibition for eastbound Hwy 7 traffic at Wooddale Ave? Attachment: Study Session Report, dated November 27, 2006 Prepared by: Michael P. Rardin, Director of Public Works Approved by: Tom Harmening, City Manager St. Louis Park City Council Study Session Discussion Item: 022607 - 3 - SW LRT Street Crossings Beltline and Wooddale Page 5 Study Session Report, dated November 27, 2006 1. SW LRT Trail Street Crossings Beltline and Wooddale Public Works PURPOSE OF DISCUSSION: To provide the City Council an opportunity to discuss options and recommendations provided in the recently completed report by SRF Consulting Engineers and to provide staff with direction with regards to further action as may be desired for the Regional Trail crossings at Beltline Boulevard and Wooddale Avenue. BACKGROUND: At the June 12, 2006 Study Session, the City Council received and reviewed a report from staff that provided relevant background information and possible changes which could be considered for the SWLRT Regional Trail crossings on Beltline Boulevard and Wooddale Avenue. At that time staff implemented “immediate” actions at both crossings (removed the white crosswalk pavement markings and increased size of trail signs so all trail users must now stop and yield to vehicles). In addition, staff made arrangements for a traffic consultant to evaluate these two (2) crossings to evaluate other possible options that may be available. At the Study Session, Council discussed possible street crossing options, safety, and long term improvements at these crossing locations and provided input to staff. Staff was directed to prepare an action item for Council consideration based on this input for the June 19, 2006 City Council meeting. A summary of the items directed for further investigation were as follows: 3. Beltline Boulevard a. Remove the white crosswalk pavement markings (previously completed). b. Narrow the traffic lanes and add a median (safe haven) with appropriate warning signs and markings. c. Study the feasibility of converting the trail crossing to a pedestrian crossing. d. Support the Park District trail/street grade separation project funded for 2010. 4. Wooddale Avenue a. Remove the white crosswalk pavement markings (previously completed). b. Close the existing trail crossing and relocate it south to the pedestrian crossing on the north side of W36th Street. c. Study the feasibility of converting the trail crossing to a pedestrian crossing. d. Develop a future project to grade separate the Regional Trail from Wooddale Avenue. Staff was also directed to increase public education efforts aimed at improving trail crossing safety. Because the trail itself is owned by Three Rivers Park District (Beltline Boulevard and Wooddale Avenue are City streets), the City and Park District have worked together cooperatively on this issue. Three Rivers Park District has provided additional assistance as follows: St. Louis Park City Council Study Session Discussion Item: 022607 - 3 - SW LRT Street Crossings Beltline and Wooddale Page 6 1. Continuing use of a District public safety presence aimed at public education and trail stop sign enforcement as resources have allowed. 2. Monitoring of trail crossings at Beltline Boulevard and Wooddale Avenue (as resources allow) to assess the effectiveness of the recent crossing changes made by the City. ANALYSIS: SRF Consulting Engineers has completed a report that reviews and evaluates several measures for consideration at the Beltline and Wooddale crossings. The measures vary extensively in both the size and type, and the length of time and cost they may take to implement. Among the factors considered were as follows: 1. Overall safety and traffic flow for both trail users and roadway users. 2. Anticipated time in which a particular solution can be implemented. 3. Short term “immediate” fixes vs. long-term improvements. 4. Possible changes to both roadways and trail configurations to improve safety. 5. Safety, traffic, and construction impacts to neighboring properties, including adjacent railroad and street intersections. 6. Roadway vs. trail user right of way along with reducing or eliminating confusion amongst users. 7. Estimated costs. 8. Other factors as discussed in the report. Report Summary A full copy of the SRF report is attached for reference and review. Although there are several options to evaluate and consider, the following general summary and recommendation is provided as follows: 1. A grade-separated crossing is the best permanent solution for both crossings. Currently, Three Rivers Park District has secured funding to provide for a crossing at Beltline in 2010. The cost of a separated grade crossing is approximately $1.0 -$1.5 M. 2. A more immediate “interim” solution would be the construction of a median with a refuge area for both the Beltline and Wooddale crossings. Other interim measures for consideration would be a signalized crossing at Beltline and relocation of the trail and crossing on Wooddale. A temporary median was more recently installed this summer on Beltline and has received positive feedback. However, an improved and more permanent type of raised median may be desired. Discussion A draft of the SRF Report was recently discussed among staff of Three Rivers Park District, the City and the Consultant. In addition to discussing possible safety implications, the alternatives in the SRF report were also viewed in terms of long-term vs. short-term solutions, high cost vs. low-cost solutions, and implementation times. More specifically, the following alternatives were identified by the group for Council consideration and can be generally summarized as follows: St. Louis Park City Council Study Session Discussion Item: 022607 - 3 - SW LRT Street Crossings Beltline and Wooddale Page 7 Beltline Long Term Options: 1. Grade separated crossing (funded for 2010) Interim Options: 1. High Cost Solution: Center median (refuge) with widened 4-lane road without a designated crosswalk ($75,000 - $150,000). Possibly available late 2007 to mid 2008. 2. High Cost Solution: Signalized crosswalk on the existing 4-lane road ($50,000 - $100,000). Possibly available late 2007 to mid 2008. 3. Mid Cost Solution: Center median (refuge) with narrowed 2-lane road without a designated crosswalk ($50,000). Possibly available mid 2007. May also require signalization of the Park Glen Rd / Beltline Blvd intersection ($200,000). 4. Low Cost Solution: Construct a raised median on the existing 4-lane road without a designated crosswalk (less than $25,000). Possibly available spring of 2007. 5. Other: Do nothing (leave as is). Wooddale Long Term Options: 1. Grade separated crossing (currently not funded) Interim Options: 1. High Cost Solution: Center median (refuge) with widened 4-lane road without a designated crosswalk ($75,000 - $150,000). Possibly available late 2007 to mid 2008. 2. Mid Cost Solution: Re-align trail and relocate crossing to the Hwy 7 intersection ($40,000 - $50,000). Possibly available spring of 2007. 3. Low Cost Solution: Construct a raised median on the existing 4-lane road without a designated crosswalk ($25,000). Possibly available spring of 2007. 4. Other: Do nothing (leave as is). All of the above solution alternatives are described further in the SRF report. This includes further details (including pros and cons) of each alternative. RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended that staff be directed as follows: 1. Work with Three Rivers Park District to secure funding for a separated grade crossing at Wooddale Avenue in coordination with the proposed 2009 Hwy 7 / Wooddale Ave interchange project. 2. Continue to work with Three Rivers Park District on public education and monitoring activities at the crossings. 3. Proceed with implementation of any interim improvement measures at these crossings as directed by Council. Attachments: SRF Report, dated November 10, 2006 Prepared by: Scott A. Brink, City Engineer Reviewed by: Michael P. Rardin, Director of Public Works Approved by: Nancy Gohman, Deputy City Manager SRF No. 0065791 St. Louis Park City Council Study Session Discussion Item: 022607 - 3 - SW LRT Street Crossings Beltline and Wooddale Page 8 MEMORANDUM TO: Scott Brink, PE, City Engineer City of St. Louis Park FROM: Patrick Corkle, PE, PTOE, Senior Associate SRF Consulting Group, Inc. DATE: November 10, 2006 SUBJECT: SOUTHWEST REGIONAL TRAIL CROSSING ALTERNATIVES – WOODDALE AVENUE AND BELTLINE BOULEVARD INTRODUCTION We have completed a study to assess trail crossing alternatives for the Southwest Regional Trail crossings at Wooddale Avenue and Beltline Boulevard in the City of St. Louis Park. The purpose of this study is to evaluate options to improve the operation and safety for both roadway and trail users at the crossing of Wooddale Avenue and Beltline Boulevard. Both crossings experience a high volume of pedestrian/bicycle traffic and moderate vehicular traffic. Previously, there were marked crosswalks for the Southwest Regional Trail as it crossed Wooddale Avenue and Beltline Avenue. With the marked crosswalks, there was confusion with the crosswalk law by motorists and trail users, which requires motorists to stop for pedestrians, not bicyclists, in the crosswalk. Due to the confusion and safety concerns associated with the marked crosswalks, they were recently removed. The existing trail stops signs were replaced with larger signs and supplemented with an “All Trail Users Must Stop” sign. This situation requires all trail users to stop for traffic on Wooddale Avenue and Beltline Boulevard. Wooddale Avenue and Beltline Boulevard are currently four-lane roadways with a posted speed limit of 30 mph at the trail crossings. Daily vehicular volumes range from 10,000 to 15,000 on both roadways. The combination of high trail use, crossing four lanes of traffic, moderate roadway volumes, an adjacent railroad and a crosswalk law not understood by all users, creates an unsafe condition for all modes of travel. St. Louis Park City Council Study Session Discussion Item: 022607 - 3 - SW LRT Street Crossings Beltline and Wooddale Page 9 SUMMARY Crossing options were developed and evaluated at Wooddale Avenue and Beltline Boulevard. These alternatives can be summarized into two groups. One group is based on the type of crossing (crosswalk, traffic control devise, installation of medians, relocation or separation of crossing) and the other is based on the type of roadway cross-section (four-lane undivided, four- lane divided and two-lane divided). To organize the crossing options, we listed the following trail-crossing options based on the roadway cross-section. At Beltline Boulevard, all three types of roadway cross-sections could be considered, although only certain crossing options should be used for each cross-section. Four-lane undivided roadway A traffic control device should be used with this roadway cross-section. The device could either be warning flashers, traffic signal or “hawk” pedestrian flasher/signal. The striped crosswalk would be re-installed with these devices (Options 4 and 5). The traffic signal device would require coordination with the railroad. The other option would be to remove the at-grade crossing by relocating it or to provide a grade separation. Re-alignment of the trail would require the crossing of a free-right island at CSAH 25, which is not desirable. The grade separation has received federal funding and should be constructed in 2010. (Options 2 and 3) Four-lane divided roadway A median would be constructed in the roadway at the trail crossing. An important detail would be the width of the median, to provide refuge for trail users (pedestrians, bicyclists and bicyclists with buggies). The crosswalk could be re-installed, since it will significantly reduce the complications of a trail user crossing the roadway if a refuge area is provided. (Options 9 and 10). Two-lane divided roadway A wide median would be constructed in the roadway at the trail crossing. Roadway traffic would not be requested to stop, therefore a crosswalk should not be striped. The shorter crossing distance would make the crossing easier for trail users. The roadway transition from two lanes to one lane south of the CSAH 25 intersection could be difficult. Additionally, a traffic signal at Beltline Boulevard/Park Glen Road may be needed for the cross-street traffic (Options 11 and 12). The other three devices (Options 6, 7 and 8) are variations of re-installing the striped crosswalk without enough enhancements to provide additional safety. Our review of the feasible trail crossing alternatives at Beltline Boulevard is summarized in the following table: St. Louis Park City Council Study Session Discussion Item: 022607 - 3 - SW LRT Street Crossings Beltline and Wooddale Page 10 Table 1 Summary of Trail Crossing Alternatives – Beltline Boulevard No. Crossing Option Traffic Flow Safety Construction Cost Roadway Trail Roadway Trail 1 No Crosswalk (current condition) Good Poor Fair Fair to Poor $0 2 Grade-Separated Crossing Good Good Good Good $1,000,000 3 Relocation of Crossing Good Poor Good to Fair Fair $25,000 4 Traffic Signal with Crosswalk Fair Fair Fair Good to Fair $100,000 5 Pedestrian Warning Devices with Crosswalk Poor Good to Fair Fair to Poor Fair $50,000 6 Striped Crosswalk --- --- --- --- --- 7 Speed Advisory with Crosswalk --- --- --- --- --- 8 Relocation of Stop Bars with Crosswalk --- --- --- --- --- 9 Center Median without Refuge (no widening) Good to Fair Poor Fair Fair to Poor $25,000 10 Center Median with Refuge (widen road) Good Fair to Poor Good to Fair Fair $50,000- $150,000 (1) 11 Center Median with Refuge (lose a lane) Fair Fair Fair Fair $50,000 12 Center Median with Bump-outs (lose a lane) Fair to Poor Fair Fair to Poor Fair $30,000 Note (1): Cost varies greatly depending on the impacts to the railroad crossing and equipment. At Wooddale Avenue, the feasible options are limited. The traffic congestion and traffic signal spacing between 36th Street and TH 7 does not allow for a traffic control device, striped crosswalk, or reduction in the number of lanes (Options 4-8, 11 and 12). Four-lane undivided roadway The only options which would improve the crossing condition are a re-alignment of the trail to the TH 7 or 36th Street traffic signal, or a grade separation. Since re-alignment to 36th Street requires crossing the railroad tracks, TH 7 may be the better choice. In addition, the re- alignment of the trail to TH 7 would occur on city property (Options 2 and 3). Four-lane divided roadway A median would be constructed in the roadway at the trail crossing. An important detail would be the width of the median, to provide a refuge for trail users (pedestrians, bicyclists and bicyclists with buggies). The crosswalk should not be re-installed (Options 9 and 10). St. Louis Park City Council Study Session Discussion Item: 022607 - 3 - SW LRT Street Crossings Beltline and Wooddale Page 11 Two-lane divided roadway This roadway configuration is not feasible at this location. The negative impact on roadway and adjacent intersections operations could be significant. Our review of the feasible trail crossing alternatives at Wooddale Avenue is summarized in the following table: Table 2 Summary of Trail Crossing Alternatives – Wooddale Avenue No. Crossing Option Traffic Flow Safety Construction Cost Roadway Trail Roadway Trail 1 No Crosswalk (current condition) Good Poor Good to Fair Fair to Poor $0 2 Grade-Separated Crossing Good Good Good Good $1,000,000 3 Relocation of Crossing Realignment of Trail Good Fair to Poor Good to Fair Good to Fair $40,000 4 Traffic Signal --- --- --- --- --- 5 Pedestrian Warning Devices with Crosswalk --- --- --- --- --- 6 Striped Crosswalk --- --- --- --- --- 7 Speed Advisory with Crosswalk --- --- --- --- --- 8 Relocation of Stop Bars with Crosswalk --- --- --- --- --- 9 Center Median without Refuge (no widening) Good to Fair Poor Fair Fair to Poor $25,000 10 Center Median with Refuge (widen road) Good Fair to Poor Good to Fair Fair $75,000- $150,000 (1) 11 Center Median with Refuge (lose a lane) --- --- --- --- --- 12 Center Median with Bump-outs (lose a lane) --- --- --- --- --- Note (1): Cost varies greatly depending on the impacts to the railroad crossing and equipment. St. Louis Park City Council Study Session Discussion Item: 022607 - 3 - SW LRT Street Crossings Beltline and Wooddale Page 12 RECOMMENDATIONS We do not recommend re-installing a striped crosswalk without other improvements. An additional treatment is needed to enhance the crossing (median, warning flasher, etc.), or a different strategy is needed altogether (traffic signal, crossing relocation, etc.). Based on our review and analysis of the trail crossing alternatives, we recommend grade- separated crossings at Wooddale Avenue and Beltline Boulevard. As an interim solution, a median with a refuge area (as feasible) should be installed at the Beltline Boulevard and Wooddale Avenue crossings. Within the past few weeks, a temporary six-foot marked median was installed on Beltline Boulevard at the trail crossing. It is our understanding that the feedback has been positive and the temporary measure is operating safely. Therefore, if the temporary median at the Beltline Boulevard crossing continues to receive positive feedback and is observed to be operating safely, a “permanent” raised curb median should be installed and no other devices would be required for the interim condition. Another interim solution for the Beltline Boulevard crossing is a fully-actuated traffic signal (or “Hawk” pedestrian flasher/signal). Another interim solution for the Wooddale Avenue crossing is re-alignment of the trail to the TH 7 intersection. DISSCUSSION Further discussion of each alternative is summarized below: 1. No Crosswalk (Current Condition) The current crossing control requires all trail users yield to the roadway users. The trail users must wait for a gap in traffic to cross. Peak hour roadway traffic will reduce the number of crossing opportunities and increase waiting times. Many studies show that unmarked crossings are safer (particular for roadways with ADT over 10,000, similar to Beltline Boulevard and Wooddale Avenue); we attribute this result to pedestrians assuming vehicles will stop for them just because they are in a crosswalk. 2. Grade-Separated Crossing The grade-separated crossing would be the only trail/roadway crossing alternative that would provide a high level of flow and be safe for both drivers and trail users. An underpass is recommended at these locations to capture the highest number of bicycle and pedestrians to use the trail crossing. Many times overpass crossings are not used by pedestrians/bicyclists due to the stairs/ramps that are required on each side. The main benefit of a grade-separated crossing is the elimination of conflicts between trail and roadway users. This option also eliminates the confusion of the crosswalk law. In addition, a grade-separated crossing provides the highest level of safety where trail users can enjoy the experience of the trail and drivers can use the roadway without impedance from crossing trail users. The downside to a grade-separated crossing is its high cost ranging from $800,000 to $1,200,000. St. Louis Park City Council Study Session Discussion Item: 022607 - 3 - SW LRT Street Crossings Beltline and Wooddale Page 13 For Beltline Boulevard, federal funding has been designated for a grade-separated crossing in the year 2010. Since future funding is identified for a grade-separated crossing at this location, all other options should be considered temporary. Further evaluation of funding alternatives should also be considered to determine whether a joint effort to advance the construction of a grade-separation is possible. Federal funding or other financing mechanisms should be evaluated for a grade-separated crossing at Wooddale Avenue. All other options should be consider an interim solution, with the ultimate goal of providing a grade-separation. 3. Relocation of Trail Crossing Under this alternative, trail users would be routed to a safer crossing location than the existing mid-block crossing. To cross Beltline Boulevard, trails users would be directed to the CSAH 25 traffic signal. The additional travel distance would be 1,100 feet. A new trail segment would need to be constructed on the westside of Beltline Boulevard from CSAH 25 to the existing trail. To cross Wooddale Avenue, the trail could be re-aligned to either the TH 7 or 36th Street signalized intersection. The re-alignment would occur on city owned property. At the Beltline Boulevard crossing, many trail users would likely continue to cross at the existing location because of the additional distance. They would also have to cross the free right-turn movement from TH 7. At the Wooddale Avenue crossing, the trail re-alignment to the TH 7 intersection would be relatively easy. The cost of providing addition trail is a medium-cost option estimated at $10,000 to $40,000. 4. Traffic Signal with Crosswalk Another option is the installation of a traffic signal. Although many different types of traffic signals could be used, a fully-actuated signal with push buttons for trail users and loop detectors for vehicles, at a minimum, should be considered. The device would operate with vehicles seeing a green indication and trail users seeing a steady “don’t walk” symbol. The trail user presses the pushbutton to identify the need to service the trail. The signal for the vehicles would change from green to yellow to red, and the trail user would receive a walk indication. The flashing don’t walk (we would recommend the use of a pedestrian countdown timers) would follow and then the return to the vehicles receiving a green indication. This operation would be the same as the traffic signal at Northwest Boulevard (CSAH 61) at the Bass Lake Playfields. In addition, the signal would need to be interconnected with the railroad crossing equipment. Alternatively a “Hawk” pedestrian flasher/signal could be installed. The operation of the device is described in the following by the City of Tucson, Arizona. The unit is normally off until activated by a pedestrian. When a pedestrian wishes to cross the street, they press a button and the signal begins with a FLASHING YELLOW indication to warn the approaching drivers, just like a school bus signal. The FLASHING YELLOW is then St. Louis Park City Council Study Session Discussion Item: 022607 - 3 - SW LRT Street Crossings Beltline and Wooddale Page 14 followed by a SOLID YELLOW indication, advising the drivers to prepare to stop. The signal is then changed to a SOLID RED indication at which time the pedestrian is shown a WALK indication. The beacon signal then converts to an ALTERNATING FLASHING RED, allowing the drivers to proceed when safe, after stopping at the crosswalk. This operation and signal sequence does not follow the current MUTCD (although should be included in the 2008 version), therefore an exemption would be needed. The cost of this device would be around $100,000 per system. Additional investigation should be completed to determine if the “Hawk” system has railroad pre-emption capabilities. We do not want a device stopping vehicles on the railroad tracks when a train is approaching. The installation of a traffic signal would dramatically improve overall safety for a trail user at these crossings by providing a controlled location, that would require all vehicles to stop when a trail user activates the pedestrian push button at the crossing. Comparing the traffic signal to the existing condition, a traffic signal would cause more disruption to the traffic flow and additional delays to motorists by requiring drivers to stop for crossing trail users. A traffic signal requires vehicles to stop, increasing the opportunities for rear-crashes. However, changing the traffic signal indication is more predictable to a motorist than a trail user using a striped crosswalk. Trail users would be more satisfied with this option than no crossing or having to wait for a gap in traffic. A traffic signal at either location would require coordination with the railroad. The traffic and railroad signals would need to be interconnected. Some type of vehicle detection would be required to prevent vehicles from being trapped in the dilemma zone and stopping on the railroad tracks. The detection will require an underground crossing of the railroad tracks. The installation of a new traffic signal on Wooddale Avenue between the current signals at 36th Street and TH 7 would create three very close spaced signalized intersections. Based on past studies, congestion and delay on Wooddale Avenue and 36th Street is significant during the peak periods. Current peak hour conditions include heavy queues from TH 7 already extending into the trail crossing area. Based on these factors, we would not recommend the installation of a traffic signal at the Wooddale Avenue trail crossing. A traffic signal installed at the Beltline Boulevard crossing should have no impact on adjacent intersections. A traffic signal is a moderate-cost option ranging from $80,000 to $120,000 per system. At this cost, consideration should be given to preserving these funds to construct a grade- separated crossing. This option should not be combined with the center median options (discussed in the following sections). St. Louis Park City Council Study Session Discussion Item: 022607 - 3 - SW LRT Street Crossings Beltline and Wooddale Page 15 5. Pedestrian Warning Devices with Crosswalk Traffic control devices such as pedestrian warning flashers and/or in-pavement warning lights could be installed at the trail crossings. If warning flashers are installed, they would be activated by the trail user pushing a button. The lights would immediately start flashing and remain active for a pre-set amount of time. If warning lights are considered, they should not continuously flash. It is recommended that the device be pedestrian-actuated with a push button, instead of being actuated by another type of sensor. Pedestrian-actuated flashing lights would alert drivers when a pedestrian/bicyclist is entering the crossing, since the use of the trail occurs at varying times throughout the day and not all trail users wish to cross at this location. An overhead flashing beacon would be recommended based on the number of lanes and roadway and trail user volumes. The crosswalk striping would also be reinstalled. This option does not control the trail crossing, since roadway users would yield to trail users. Many of these devices were installed five to eight years ago. A cursory review of these systems show a positive response from city staff; however, not as the only solution. Median options maybe a better option, or they could be used in conjunction with warning flashers. Median options allow trail users to cross the roadway in simpler stages (observation of traffic in one direction, shorter crossing distance and more adequate gaps to cross), while not providing a false sense of safety when using a striped crosswalk or significant impact to vehicles. The cost of pedestrian warning devices is estimated at $40,000 to $50,000. 6. Striped Crosswalk A striped crosswalk was originally installed with construction of the trail. Re-installing the crosswalk and advanced warning signs could be an option, but not recommended. The crosswalks were removed because of trail user and vehicle confusion. Pedestrians have a false sense of safety when using a striped crosswalk, as they may assume vehicles will stop for them. The law requires vehicles to stop for pedestrians in the crosswalk. The roadway is four-lanes wide at the crossing. The four-lanes create a “multiple threat” situation. A vehicle in one lane stops for the pedestrian to cross and another vehicle traveling in the same direction (in the other lane) fail to see the pedestrian, or just fail to stop, and strikes the pedestrian The cost of a re-installing the crosswalk and signing is a low-cost option at $2,000. We do not recommend just re-installing the striped crosswalk and warning signs. An additional treatment is needed to enhance the crossing (median, warning flasher, etc.), or a different strategy is needed altogether (traffic signal, crossing relocation, etc.). St. Louis Park City Council Study Session Discussion Item: 022607 - 3 - SW LRT Street Crossings Beltline and Wooddale Page 16 7. Speed Advisory Warning Sign with Crosswalk This alternative would install a speed advisory sign to warn drivers of approaching trail. The sign would be located in advance of the trail crossing and could be attached to the pedestrian crossing ahead sign posts, if the crosswalk striping were re-installed. The sign could also be a stand alone sign stating "High Use Trail Ahead” with a supplemental speed plaque “25 mph". The advisory speed would not be enforceable, but would at least warn drivers of the approaching trail. If the crosswalk striping were not re-installed, this option may lead to driver confusion on whether they are required to yield for trail users. Therefore, a striped crosswalk would be installed with this option. Previously, warning signs were installed warning of the trail crossing. Changing the warning sign type would not have a significant improvement on safety, therefore we would not recommend this option by itself. The cost to install a new sign is a low-cost option of $1,000 to 2,000. 8. Relocation of Stop Bars with Crosswalk Since Wooddale Avenue and Beltline Boulevard are currently four lanes, there is the potential that motorists in the outside lane do not have sufficient sight distance to see a bicyclist/pedestrian due to a car in the adjacent lane blocking their line of sight. The crosswalk would be re-installed, stop/yield lines would be painted in advance of the crossing (approximately 100 feet) to open the line of sight for drivers in all lanes of traffic to be able to see the pedestrian/bicyclist entering the crossing. The relocation of the stop bars would improve the sight and stopping distance at the trail crossings at a minimal cost. One challenge with this type of treatment at these locations is the close proximity to the railroad crossings. Drivers would need advance warning prior to the railroad crossing to stop prior to the tracks. Other challenges include driver compliance, re-installation of the crosswalk striping, and the driver’s ability to view trail users at the crossing. This option is not recommended for these crossings due to the proximity of the railroad tracks and adjacent intersections. However, it could be an option at other crossing locations. The cost to relocate the stop bars is a low-cost option of $1,000 to $2,000. 9. Center Median without Refuge Area A center median without a refuge area includes the construction of a narrow center median (temporary or permanent) in the roadway. The median would be approximately four feet in width and would not be intended for trail user storage. This still creates a situation with drivers and trail users to make decisions at the crossing. Installation of median delineator markers (temporary) would provide minimal safety benefits for pedestrians, due to the lack of a physical barrier (curb) between the pedestrian and moving vehicles. St. Louis Park City Council Study Session Discussion Item: 022607 - 3 - SW LRT Street Crossings Beltline and Wooddale Page 17 The review of this option does not include a striped crosswalk, although it could be included at Beltline Boulevard but not at the Wooddale Avenue crossing. Installing the center median without widening the roadway requires narrowing the roadway travel lanes and likely cause a reduction in vehicle speed. The median would identify the crossing location by providing a raised element in the roadway. If the driving lanes are narrowed, the potential of vehicle/vehicle sideswipe crashes may increase. Consideration should be given to providing a solid white line, instead of broken, between lanes in the area of the median to reduce lane changing maneuvers. Trail users will receive improvements in safety due to the reduction in vehicle speed and identification of the crossing. The trail users still will need to yield to vehicular traffic. The cost of a permanent center median without widening the roadway is a low-cost option ranging from $15,000 to $25,000. 10. Center Median with Refuge (widen roadway) A center median with a large enough area to provide a pedestrian refuge would require widening of the roadway. The widening will require modification of the roadway at the train tracks, which could include the need to relocate the gate arms. For these reasons, this alternative would also require coordination with the railroad. The review of this option does not include a striped crosswalk, although it could be included. This option provides operational and safety benefits for both roadway and trail users. Roadway users would not need to stop for trail users, the number of lanes would be maintained and lane width could be slightly narrowed. The roadway would probably need to be widened at the railroad crossing. If roadway widening is needed, consideration should be given to upgrading the crossing and median to meet Whistle Quiet Zone requirements. Trail users would see a benefit in operation and safety over the existing condition. A refuge area allows trail users to make the crossing maneuver in a two step process. A trail user only needs to watch for gaps in traffic for one direction and the crossing distance is cut in half. The cost of a permanent center median with widening the roadway is a medium-cost option ranging from $50,000 to $150,000. 11. Center Median with Refuge Area (remove a roadway lane) A center median with a refuge area created by the removal of a roadway lane is feasible for the Beltline Boulevard crossing, but not at Wooddale Avenue. Wooddale Avenue between TH 7 and 36th Street has capacity and operational issues, so reducing the number of lanes should not be an option. This option should not include a striped crosswalk. The center median with a large enough area to provide a pedestrian refuge would require the removal of a roadway lane in each direction at the crossing to maintain the existing roadway width. The lane removal could be done near the crossing, requiring traffic to merge into one lane or develop a three-lane section between CSAH 25 and 36th Street. St. Louis Park City Council Study Session Discussion Item: 022607 - 3 - SW LRT Street Crossings Beltline and Wooddale Page 18 The roadway operation and safety would be negatively impacted due to the merging of the through lanes. Although, merging traffic would have minimal impact to adjacent intersections. The exception would be Beltline Boulevard/Park Glen Road intersection, a traffic signal may be needed to allow vehicles onto Beltline Boulevard during peak periods of traffic. On Beltline Boulevard, the roadway could be modified to two-lane section with left-turn lanes between CSAH 25 and 36th Street. The roadway safety and operation of a two-lane section with left-turn lanes at the intersections would be better than merging traffic to a single lane near the crossing. The only difficulty would be the transition south of the TH 7 intersection, currently a lane adds southbound from the eastbound TH 7 free right. Trail users would see a benefit in operation and safety over the existing condition. A refuge area allows trail users to make the crossing maneuver in a two step process. A trail user only need to watch for gaps in one direction and the crossing distance is cut by one- fourth. The number of gaps will be reduced because the roadway traffic is concentrated into one lane. Although, the benefit of the shorter crossing distance and refuge area are more beneficial. The cost of a permanent center median with removing a through lane in each direction is a medium-cost option ranging from $50,000 to $75,000. 12. Center Median with Bump-outs On Beltline Boulevard, the installation of curb extensions or bump-outs could be considered by reducing the number of traffic lanes from four to two at the trail crossing location. This would reduce the distance of the roadway that pedestrians are required to cross. With the reduction of traffic lanes, a center median area could be installed wide enough to provide a pedestrian/bike refuge area. This is not an option at the Wooddale Avenue crossing. A striped crosswalk should not be included with this option. This option would increase the visibility for pedestrians waiting to cross. In addition, the pedestrian crossing signs could be placed near the nose of the bump-out to be more visible to motorists on Beltline Boulevard. One disadvantage of curb extensions is the potential for drivers to run into them during darkness or poor weather conditions. If the installation is of a temporary nature (i.e. delineator markers), the buffer provides no physical protection from vehicles. Also, the reduction in the number of lanes would require vehicles to merge prior to the crossing, creating a conflict point and potential for an increase in vehicle crashes. The cost of this improvement is low, ranging from $20,000 to $30,000. St. Louis Park City Council Study Session Discussion Item: 022607 - 4 - Parks & Recreation Advisory Commission Annual Report Page 1 4. Parks & Recreation Advisory Commission Annual Report Administrative Services PURPOSE OF DISCUSSION: To provide the Council with the work plan and annual report prepared by the Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission (PRAC) in advance of the meeting with the commissioners in April. BACKGROUND: The City Council has requested draft copies of each commission’s work plan and annual report prior to the annual meeting with the commissions. The 2007 PRAC Annual Report and 2007 Goals are attached for Council’s review and discussion. Attachments: PRAC Annual Report (2006) PRAC Goals (2007) Prepared by: Marcia Honold, Management Assistant Approved by: Nancy Gohman, Deputy City Manager St. Louis Park City Council Study Session Discussion Item: 022607 - 4 - Parks & Recreation Advisory Commission Annual Report Page 2 St Louis Park Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission Year-end Report, 2006 2006 Commissioners and Officers: Tom Worthington, Chair George Foulkes, Vice Chair R. Bruce Cornwall Steve Hallfin Kirk Hawkinson George Hagemann Nick Magrino Lauren Webb-Hazlett In this past year, the Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission focused on the following priorities: ♦ City Vision: Commission members served on different groups involved. Commission will review recommendations and assist when needed. ♦ Events: 5 K runs: The events were held Sunday, May 21 and Saturday, September 16. Members volunteered and participated in the events which raised money for the scholarship fund. ♦ Neighborhood Groups: Members worked to improve ties with groups. ♦ Recreation Activities: Members discussed activities for adults and 55+ individuals (i.e. canoeing, bike rides, shuffle board, free films). ♦ Recreation Resources: Members discussed “on-call recreation” resources which would include staff and fees (i.e. renting canoes). ♦ Staff Appreciation Breakfast/Luncheon: The Commission hosted an annual luncheon for the Parks and Recreation staff to convey their appreciation. The luncheon was held on October 4 in the Oak Hill Park Main Shelter. ♦ Youth Sports Association Relationship: The Commission invited an association to each of their monthly meetings to discuss the association’s enrollment, fees, board structure, and inquiring on facility suggestions. St. Louis Park City Council Study Session Discussion Item: 022607 - 4 - Parks & Recreation Advisory Commission Annual Report Page 3 2007 Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission Goals  City Vision: Members will keep updated on the vision and assist in any way possible.  Commissions: Meet with other commissions as appropriate.  Community Activities for Adults: Members will discuss and make recommendations to staff of activities for all age groups.  Events:  5K runs: Commission members will volunteer to assist with these events.  Movie or Sport: The Commission will research holding a movie event in the Wolfe Park Amphitheater.  Neighborhood groups: One or two members will attend the neighborhood annual meetings. They will also send a flyer to the neighborhood groups and advise the neighborhoods about the Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission, how to contact them and an invitation to attend the Commissions meetings.  Recreation Resources: Members will research providing recreation equipment for rent.  Staff Appreciation Breakfast/Luncheon: Members will continue annual luncheon.  Youth Sports Association Relationships: Commission will invite associations to their monthly meetings. St. Louis Park City Council Study Session Discussion Item: 022607 - 5 - Discuss Process for Setting Study Session Agenda Page 1 5. Discuss Process for Setting Study Session Agendas Administrative Services PURPOSE OF DISCUSSION: To begin discussion on the process to be used to prioritize and establish the topics to be placed on future study session agendas (from a timeline as well as whether the topics are items to be discussed or provided as reports). BACKGROUND: As a result of the recent City Council Organizational Development sessions, as well as the recent City Manager evaluation, it has become clear that a more defined and inclusive process needs to be developed for the setting of future study session agendas. The City Council asked that this topic be placed on the February 26 study session agenda as a topic for discussion. Prepared and Approved by: Tom Harmening, City Manager City Council Study Session Discussion Item: 022607 - 6 - Future Study Session Agenda Page 1 6. Future Study Session Agenda Planning Administrative Services PURPOSE OF DISCUSSION: To assist the City Council and the City Manager in setting the next study session agenda. BACKGROUND: At each study session, approximately five minutes are set aside to discuss the next study session agenda. For this purpose, attached please find the tentative agenda and proposed discussion items for the March 12th study session. Attachment: Future Study Session Agenda Planning Prepared by: Marcia Honold, Management Assistant Approved by: Nancy Gohman, Deputy City Manager City Council Study Session Discussion Item: 022607 - 6 - Future Study Session Agenda Page 2 Future Study Session Agenda Planning Monday, March 12, 2007 Tentative Discussion – 6:30 p.m. A. Pandemic Planning Overview – Fire Department (30 minutes) Fire Department to lead council is a discussion about pandemic planning. B. Telecommunications Advisory Commission – Work Plan and Annual Report - Information Resources (15 minutes) Telecommunications Advisory Commission to meet with Council to discuss the 2006 annual report and the 2007 work plan. C. EDI Project Business Points – Community Development (45 minutes) Staff to provide Council with the main business points/features of the EDI Project. D. Duke Concept Plan and TIF Applications – Community Development (45 minutes) Staff to discuss next steps with Council for the SW LRT Trail Crossing. E. Refuse Contract – Public Works (45 minutes) To begin initial conversations with Council regarding the upcoming refuse contract. F. Future Agenda Planning – Administrative Services (5 minutes) 9:35 p.m. End of Meeting St. Louis Park City Council Study Session Written Report: 022607 - 7 - Marketing & Branding Update Page 1 7. Marketing & Branding Update Information Resources PURPOSE OF REPORT: To provide Council with an update on marketing and branding activities expected to take place during 2007. BACKGROUND: In 2006, Council accepted a communication plan completed by consultants from CityImage that included an audit of current communication needs within the city. Chief recommendations included defining and branding the St. Louis Park community and devoting more time and resources to communicating the city’s message. ISSUES: Organizing and implementing this marketing and branding campaign is one of the chief responsibilities of the new communications coordinator who joined the city in January. A tentative timeline and process for this marketing and branding campaign follows. Goal: To identify the city of St. Louis Park’s brand, determine the best methods for communicating that brand to stakeholders and implementing that plan. Partners: Council, city staff, St. Louis Park Public schools, Park Nicollet, neighborhoods, other area businesses Four steps: Research – Thanks to the Visioning process, much of this has already been completed. We have a really good feel for the values of the community and where we hope to go. That said, there is some research that needs to be done that could be accomplished with several additional focus groups. These focus groups would concentrate on the very specific question … what is our brand, reputation, identity? Identify – Based on the information gathered from the Visioning process, the new focus groups and historical information, a team of stakeholders will be assembled to clearly identify a brand. This group will be tasked with identifying, based on what we know and what we want to project, some general theme that we’ll want to market. The group will not be talking specifics like logos, taglines, etc., because it is imperative that we keep in mind that those are communication tools, but not our brand. Act – This is the point in the process where we put into action marketing our brand. This will be accomplished through graphic standards, key messages, a tagline, etc. This would be the point where we may utilize the services of an outside firm to narrow down the brand to a tagline, etc. Division of action steps and future budgeting will be considered. Assess – It will be important for the city to assess the impact of a branding campaign. This is difficult to do in marketing; however, we should be able to use community buy-in as one significant gauge. If the business community, community groups, neighborhoods and schools start using the brand as part of their communication efforts, we’ll be able to see results. St. Louis Park City Council Study Session Written Report: 022607 - 7 - Marketing & Branding Update Page 2 Timeline: February/March 2007 • Issue a Request for Information and conduct informational interviews with five to seven different marketing firms • Meetings with stakeholders - School district -Park Nicollet - Business leaders - Neighborhood leaders • Conduct focus groups - Staff - Residents/community leaders - Non-residents/Realtors? - Council (work session) March/April 2007 • Narrow our brand. What is our identity? • Cost analysis of tools (i.e. advertising, logos, taglines, printing) • Do we need one outside firm to help us? How much is that worth? What should they do? What should we do? • Develop a Request for Proposal if we decide to utilize an outside firm May/June 2007 • Award contract • Hold initial meeting with firm • Determine action plan for firm/city … define roles • Develop budget proposal for 2008 July/August 2007 • Create implementation plan • Work with consultant to put together a final report • Report to council September 2007 • Launch campaign (“Implement” may be better word than “Launch” as it will really just become part of the way we do business.) St. Louis Park City Council Study Session Written Report: 022607 - 7 - Marketing & Branding Update Page 3 October 2007 and beyond • Begin using messages • Start implementation process • Development of key messages • Assess impact of marketing and branding efforts • Refine communication plans to reflect brand Prepared by: Jamie Zwilling, Communications Coordinator Reviewed by: Clint Pires, Chief Information Officer Approved by: Tom Harmening, City Manager St. Louis Park City Council Study Session Written Report: 022607 - 8 - W. 36th Street Art Update Page 1 8. W. 36th Street Art Update Parks & Recreation Department PURPOSE OF REPORT: This report is to update the City Council on the status for selection of artists for the W. 36th Street public art projects. BACKGROUND: In September 2006, staff outlined the process to select artists and the actual public art for the W. 36th Street corridor. Staff members from Community Development and Parks & Recreation have been working with Jack Becker and FORCAST Public Artworks to select artists. FORCAST Public Artworks sent out a Request for Proposal for artists in three different categories. ARTIST REVIEW: A committee made up of developers, staff, a neighborhood resident, landscape architect, Friends of the Arts representative, and Parks & Recreation Advisory Commission member reviewed the references and ideas submitted by the artists in all three categories. There were three artists chosen in each category to submit their ideas for public art. Each of the artists was given a small stipend to develop an idea of what they would design and then present that idea to the committee in March. The first category is the area at the corner of Wooddale and W. 36th Street. This public area would be located on the corner plaza area of the Rottlund Homes development. There were 24 artists who were interested in designing art for this area. The second category is the Hoigaard’s Village site. There were 16 artists who expressed an interest in developing some type of vertical art piece in or near the storm water pond on the site. The third category involves a variety of possibilities that would be incorporated into the streetscape in the form of benches, trash receptacles, bike racks, paving patterns, tree grates, and banners. Sixteen artists had ideas for streetscape art. Some of the artists submitted ideas for more than one category. Overall, FORCAST Public Artworks and City staff were very impressed with the ideas presented from the artists. Our past work with public art at Excelsior and Grand, Louisiana Oaks Park, and our recent park buildings has generated a lot of energy and enthusiasm for working in St. Louis Park. NEXT STEPS: On March 22, the selected artists will present their ideas for public art in each of the three categories to the existing committee. After that process, the committee will be recommending an artist in each category to the City Council. The City Council will be asked to approve the public art projects prior to any additional work being done. Prepared by: Cindy Walsh, Director of Parks & Recreation Approved by: Nancy Gohman, Deputy City Manager