HomeMy WebLinkAbout2023/01/09 - ADMIN - Agenda Packets - City Council - Study SessionAGENDA
JAN. 9, 2023
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meeting or study session.
6:30 p.m. STUDY SESSION – council chambers
Discussion items
1. 90 min. 2023 legislative priorities
Written reports
2. 2023 Cedar Lake Road (4023-1100) and 2024 Louisiana Avenue (4024-1100)
improvement projects update
The agenda is posted on Fridays on the official city bulletin board in the lobby of city hall and on the text display on
civic TV cable channel 17. The agenda and full packet are available after noon on Friday on the city’s website.
If you need special accommodations or have questions about the meeting, please call 952.924.2505.
Meeting: Study session
Meeting date: January 9, 2023
Discussion item: 1
Executive summary
Title: 2023 legislative priorities
Recommended action: None at this time. The purpose of this report is to provide the council
with the final legislative positions and priorities for the 2023 legislative session and to allow
them to discuss those priorities with legislators.
Policy consideration: None at this time.
Summary: The state legislature convened the 93rd session on Tuesday, Jan. 3, 2023. Staff
prepared a list of legislative priorities for the council at their direction. As the 2023 legislative
session progresses, additional issues may arise that can be addressed as guided by the positions
document or the strategic priorities adopted by the city council.
New legislative priorities added this year include positions on adult use cannabis, increased
aircraft noise, open meeting laws, state and local cybersecurity grant programs, and emergency
housing assistance. Many positions were modified to emphasize the city’s priorities on race
equity and sustainability.
On Oct. 17, 2022, council approved the legislative priorities with minor amendments as detailed
in the report.
The Office of Minnesota Management and Budget recently reported that the state forecast for
the surplus in state government funds totals $17.6 billion dollars, which is expected to
significantly impact legislative activity this year. The city has recently been awarded federal
funding to aid in the completion of needed projects. The city is seeking state resources to match
or augment those projects further.
During this study session, the council will meet with Representative Cheryl Youakim,
Representative Larry Kraft, Senator Ron Latz, and Hennepin County Commissioner Marion
Greene to discuss these priorities.
Financial or budget considerations: Funding for lobbyists is included in the budget.
Strategic priority consideration: The legislative priorities were generated and reviewed with
consideration of all five strategic priorities for the city.
Supporting documents: 2023 legislative priorities
Prepared by: Michael Sund, civic engagement coordinator
Reviewed by: Melissa Kennedy, city clerk
Cheyenne Brodeen, administrative services director
Approved by: Kim Keller, city manager
Study session meeting of January 9, 2023 (Item No. 1) Page 2
Title: 2023 legislative priorities
Discussion
Legislative projects: The city participated in a process with members of the U.S. Congress that
represent the city at a federal level to secure funding for several projects. The city worked with
the offices of Senator Smith, Senator Klobuchar, and Representative Omar to submit three
projects through the congressionally directed spending process. These projects were selected
for inclusion in the federal budget. The city is deeply grateful for their efforts working on our
behalf to advocate for us at the federal level. Each program works to fill crucial gaps in service
on city priorities and to fund projects which are vital to city infrastructure. President Biden has
signed the budget into law, and the city will soon receive funding for these projects.
In addition to funding from the congressionally directed spending process the city has also
sought funding through the Metropolitan Council’s regional solicitation process. The city has
received 7 million additional dollars through this process for our Cedar and Louisiana
reconstruction project. Together these sources account for nearly half of the project's total
cost.
The city is requesting that the state legislature now join in this collaborative effort to augment
and advance these projects. The forecast from the Office of Minnesota Management and
Budget indicates that there will be a large $17.6 billion surplus. Governor Walz has indicated
that much of this money represents a one-time injection of funds resulting from the pandemic.
The city is working to address the needs of residents in partnership with state and federal
resources.
Project Goal Total
estimated
cost*
Secured Remaining
estimated
cost
Cedar and
Louisiana
reconstruction
Regionally significant roadway
connecting Hwy 169 and 394 $20 $9 $11
Multifamily land
trust
Prove concept of perpetually
affordable multifamily housing
by purchasing a NOAH property
to be held in a land trust
$6 $3 $3
Affordable
commercial center
Create space for business
owners to affordably secure
space
$4 $2.16** $1.85
Electrify
community cohort
grant
program
Partnership with Edina and
Eden Prairie to electrify
demonstration homes to train
workers, educate residents and
test new technology
$2 $1 $1
*All amounts in millions of dollars
** The city secured a $380,000 grant from Hennepin County for the
project. The city’s Economic Development Authority purchased the
building for $1.79 million. The estimated build out costs are set at $1.3
million.
Study session meeting of January 9, 2023 (Item No. 1) Page 3
Title: 2023 legislative priorities
Legislative priorities: The city’s legislative positions are detailed in the full document attached
to this report. Each year a few of these items are selected as priorities when they meet the
criteria of being actively discussed at the state legislature, subjects that relate to committees on
which our delegation serves and have a significant impact on the city’s ability to provide
services to residents.
This year staff have identified five priority issues to highlight. Each has met the core criteria and
are listed below:
1. Advanced state energy code – The city supports the adoption of an energy code that
allows for the adoption of more efficient energy standards.
2. Local control for emergency management services – The city supports uncoupling
EMSRB standard service area determinations to allow the city to determine who
provides service and the level of service provided.
3. TIF pooling deposited into AHTF (Resources for affordable housing) – The city supports
making this source of funding for affordable housing permanent beyond the 2025
expiration date.
4. Worker’s compensation (Health insurance coverage for disabled public safety officers) –
The city requests that the state fully fund this mandate to provide for workers while
allowing the local budget to focus on service provision.
5. Pathway to policing – The city supports funding for this successful program which works
to improve and diversify the candidate pool of new officers.
New and changed positions: Each year the city council reviews the list of positions and
priorities. During that review, city staff also highlight issues that affect their ability to
adequately provide services to residents. This year, many positions were modified to emphasize
the city’s priorities on race equity and sustainability. New issues and those with additional
significant changes are positions on adult use cannabis, increased aircraft noise, open meeting
laws, state and local cybersecurity grant programs, emergency housing assistance, and urban
forestry.
The city included a position in support of a state law that would allow for adult use of cannabis
in the 2022 positions document. During the regular 2022 session the state legislature
authorized the use of certain consumable cannabis products by adults. In response to this
change, the city instituted a licensing system that will allow business owners to sell these
products. The city supports further clarification and support for the changes that have been
made as well as a statewide system that authorizes the use of cannabis by adults.
Recent changes to plans by regulatory authorities may mean a change in the pathway
commercial aircraft use for arrivals and departures over the city. The position added this year
highlights some of the issues related to this potential change and outlines the city’s support for
a navigation system that remediates the effect of noise and air pollution that may result.
Study session meeting of January 9, 2023 (Item No. 1) Page 4
Title: 2023 legislative priorities
Finally, the city added positions related to the open meeting law that align with a position held
by the League of Minnesota Cities to update the law for meeting using modern technology.
Further items were added to highlight the potential for resources from the federal government
to be used by the city once a state match is authorized for cybersecurity and emergency
housing assistance. And, finally, a small addition broadened the scope of protection for urban
forests. The position and issue details on each of these topics are outlined in the legislative
positions document attached to this report.
Staff continue to research additional positions and priorities as they emerge throughout the
year. At the request of council, staff researched whether to take a specific position related to
local control of herbicides and pesticides and determined that it is covered through advocacy
on all issues related to local control. Staff will actively monitor legislation on local control
related to herbicides and pesticides
Additional Resources
League of Minnesota Cities: Legislative policies
Metro Cities: Legislative Policies
Study session meeting of January 9, 2023 (Item No. 1) Page 5
Title: 2023 legislative priorities
City of St. Louis Park
2023 Legislative Priorities
Climate, Energy, and Buildings
Primary contact Brian Hoffman
Email:bhoffman@stlouisparkmn.gov / Phone: (952) 924-2584
The City of St. Louis Park supports innovative strategies in the pursuit of a more sustainable
climate worldwide, including the adoption of near-term emission reduction targets as described
in the city’s Climate Action Plan.
Issue Position Page #
Advanced state
energy code
Support adopting advanced state energy codes and/or allowing
for local adoption of more efficient building standards.
10
Environment and
sustainability
Support the statewide adoption of similar goals to those in the
St. Louis Park Climate Action Plan.
10
Construction codes Oppose legislation that would reduce the current minimum
building and energy code standards or limit future adoptions of
improved energy conservation standards.
11
Fee-for-service
programs
Support maintaining minimum standards for building safety,
longevity, and energy conservation, and allow local governments
to continue with fee-for-service permitting and inspection.
11
Residential fire
sprinklers
Oppose efforts that prohibit future adoption of residential fire
sprinkler codes.
11
Urban forest
management
Support an ongoing grant program with at least $5 million per
year that is usable for issues related to Emerald Ash Borer and
other resources for urban forest management.
11
Economic Development
Primary contact Karen Barton
Email: kbarton@stlouisparkmn.gov / Phone: (952) 924-2684
The City of St. Louis Park supports a thriving local economy of small and large businesses and
strives to create a place where people can live, work, and play.
Issue Position Page #
DEED program
funding
Support the continued annual funding of DEED programs at
stable, sustainable, or increased levels.
13
Special Service
Districts
Support including multi-family housing in Special Service Districts
and Special Service Districts around transit and LRT stations.
13
Telecommunications
and information
technology
Oppose the adoption of state and federal policies that restrict
cities’ ability to finance, construct, or operate
telecommunications networks.
13
Study session meeting of January 9, 2023 (Item No. 1) Page 6
Title: 2023 legislative priorities
General Government
Primary contact Kim Keller
Email: kkeller@stlouisparkmn.gov / Phone: (952) 924-2526
The City of St. Louis Park supports good governance in the form of legal authority to help
residents to thrive in the ways they need.
Issue Position Page #
Adult use cannabis Support statewide legalization of cannabis for recreational use by
adults with a regulatory framework that maintains local control.
15
Aircraft noise Support evaluating the effects of consolidated flight tracks
because of RNAV on departures.
15
Cable franchising
authority
Support congress to recognize, support and maintain the exercise
of local franchising authority.
16
Interstate compact Support the adoption of the national popular vote interstate
compact.
17
Levy limits Oppose a levy limit or other proposed restrictions for local
government budgets.
17
Local Control Support local control as a principle that applies to many issues. N/a
Minnesota Health
Plan
Support universal health care access in the form of Medicare for
All.
17
Open Meeting Law Support including virtual options for open meetings. 17
Records retention Support inclusion of social media and text messaging and a
standard 3-year retention period.
18
Safeguard public
code employees
Support Minnesota League of Cities policy related to assaults on
code enforcement officials.
18
Cybersecurity Grant
Program
Support State legislature approval of matching IIJA funds for local
government for the SLCGP.
19
Study session meeting of January 9, 2023 (Item No. 1) Page 7
Title: 2023 legislative priorities
Housing
Primary contact Karen Barton
Email: kbarton@stlouisparkmn.gov / Phone: (952) 924-2684
The City of St. Louis Park supports housing for all residents in the city including policies that
build and maintain housing and aid in associated costs.
Issue Position Page #
Affordable housing
fee
Support the ability to collect an affordable housing fee on new
development.
20
Emergency housing
assistance
Support funding for emergency assistance to provide temporary
housing to families experiencing a crisis
20
Local housing trust
fund
Support dedicated revenue, state match, and technical assistance
for local housing trust funds
20
Prohibition on
discrimination
Support a statewide prohibition on discrimination against renters
receiving rental assistance.
20
Rental rehab loan
program
Support the establishment of a housing rehab loan program for
the preservation of NOAH multi-family residential rental
properties.
21
Resources for
affordable housing
Support funding to facilitate, create and preserve affordable
housing.
21
TOD Housing Fund Support the creation of a transit-oriented development
affordable housing fund.
21
Study session meeting of January 9, 2023 (Item No. 1) Page 8
Title: 2023 legislative priorities
Public Safety
Primary contact (Police) Bryan Kruelle
Email: bkruelle@stlouisparkmn.gov / Phone: (952) 924-2128
Primary contact (Fire) Steve Koering
Email: skoering@stlouisparkmn.gov / Phone: (952) 292-0281
The City of St. Louis Park supports public safety policies and rules that help our front-line
workers and ensure equitable and safe outcomes for residents.
Issue Position Page #
Criminal background
checks
Support preventing individuals who are not legally able to
purchase a gun from doing so without background checks at gun
shows, online, or in private transactions.
23
Emergency medical
services
Support uncoupling professional standards overview by the
EMSRB from the service area determination.
23
Expansion of legal
fireworks
Oppose legislation that expands fireworks in Minnesota. 24
Gun violence
protective orders
Support allowing law enforcement in certain cases to temporarily
remove any guns in an individual's possession and to prohibit new
gun purchases for the duration of the order.
24
Health insurance
coverage for
disabled public
safety officers
Support this mandate being fully funded by the state. 24
Mandated law
enforcement training
Support continuing the POST Board training reimbursement
allocation to local agencies
25
Pathway to policing
program
Support funding increase for this program. 25
Permit to Purchase
Firearms/Permit to
Carry
Support aligning the permit to purchase firearms statutes with a
permit to carry statute in terms of the time required for
conducting background checks.
25
Race Data Collected
on Minnesota
Driver's License and
State Identification
Support the Minnesota Department of Public Safety to require
individuals self-identify their race when applying for a driver's
license or state identification.
26
Study session meeting of January 9, 2023 (Item No. 1) Page 9
Title: 2023 legislative priorities
Transportation and Infrastructure
Primary contact Deb Heiser
Email: dheiser@stlouisparkmn.gov / Phone: (952) 924-2551
The City of St. Louis Park supports providing a variety of options for people to make their way
around the city comfortably, safely, and reliably.
Issue Position Page #
Infrastructure
Investment and Jobs
Act (IIJA)
Support the adoption of funding for transportation related
projects that allows for the full allocation of additional federal
funds for infrastructure projects related to IIJA
27
Railway safety Support accountability, safety, and funding of accident
prevention, as well as new rules around railway safety.
27
Redesign CSAH 25 Support Hennepin County’s funding of
rehabilitation/reconstruction of CSAH 25.
27
Southwest LRT Support the continued work and completion of the Southwest
LRT Project to provide businesses, residents, and visitors with
multiple transportation options.
28
Texas Ave. and
Minnetonka Blvd.
Support Hennepin County partnering for the reconstruction of
the Texas Avenue/Minnetonka Blvd intersection.
29
Transit financing Support revenue sources to fund the operating budget for all
regional transit providers.
30
Transportation
funding
Support sufficient statewide transportation funding, for all modes
of travel, and local control to serve long-term needs.
30
Study session meeting of January 9, 2023 (Item No. 1) Page 10
Title: 2023 legislative priorities
City of St. Louis Park
2023 Legislative Positions
Climate, Energy, and Buildings
Advanced state energy code
(Request directed to State Legislature)
Issue: Reducing energy consumption and carbon emissions of buildings is a major component
toward achieving the St. Louis Park Climate Action Plan, especially for larger commercial
structures. Continuing to construct new buildings to the current MN State energy code is
counterproductive as requirements are dated and allow for relatively high energy consumption.
Future retrofitting of these buildings to reduce energy and carbon emissions will be costly and
difficult. Provisions to encourage and support states in the adoption of more stringent building
codes were included in both the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and the Inflation
Reduction Act; staff has contacted the Department of Labor and Industry and Department of
Commerce to join the building energy codes implementation process as a partner organization.
The city also will continue to join any efforts to advance policy solutions that will enable cities
to voluntarily promote or otherwise ensure greater energy performance measures for
commercial and multifamily residential buildings.
Position: Support legislation to adopt developing a more advanced state energy code and/or
allow for local adoption of more efficient building standards.
Environment and sustainability
(Climate Action Plan, Request directed to State Legislature, Met Council & Hennepin County)
Issue: The city adopted a Climate Action Plan (CAP) in February 2018 with the ambitious goal of
achieving carbon neutrality (having a net zero carbon footprint) by 2040. The Climate Action
Plan outlines specific activities and goals the city will undertake to reduce greenhouse gas
emissions. The City recognizes the most vulnerable groups of people to climate change include
some communities of color, immigrant groups, indigenous people and low-income residents as
well as persons with preexisting and chronic medical conditions. The plan includes seven mid-
term goals by 2030 to keep the city on track including:
• Reduce energy consumption in large commercial buildings by 30 percent
• Reduce energy consumption in small- to mid-size commercial buildings by 30 percent
• Design and build all new construction to be net-zero energy
• Reduce energy consumption in residential buildings by 35 percent
• Achieve 100 percent renewable electricity
• Reduce vehicle emissions by 25 percent
• Reduce solid waste by 50 percent from business as usual
Position: The city supports the statewide adoption of similar goals to those in the St. Louis Park
Climate Action Plan and requests ongoing support to achieve these goals. The city supports
legislation that helps climate mitigation efforts by reducing energy usage and greenhouse gas
emissions, with renewed attention on equitable distribution of resources to reduce energy
burden and improve public health. In addition, the city supports legislation that provides state
funding for energy conservation and renewable energy initiatives.
Study session meeting of January 9, 2023 (Item No. 1) Page 11
Title: 2023 legislative priorities
Construction codes – limiting local regulatory authority
(Request directed to State Legislature)
Issue: Discussions on affordable housing solutions can result in home builders and associations
that advocate on their behalf pursuing reduced regulations from state construction codes and
city land use codes as a way of reducing costs.
Position: St. Louis Park strongly supports and encourages affordable housing, however,
minimum code requirements for energy conservation and building safety should not be
compromised to reduce construction costs to builders. In addition, local land use and zoning
standards for establishing quality of life standards in each community should not be limited by
legislative action.
Maintain local establishment of appropriate fee-for-service programs
(Request directed to State Legislature)
Issue: Calls for affordable housing by the construction industry mistake building codes and fee-
for-service inspection programs as being the cause of rising home values as opposed to other
causes like the rapidly increasing prices of building materials and construction labor.
Position: Maintain a consistent minimum standard for building safety, longevity, and energy
conservation, and allow local government units to continue with fee-for-service inspection
programs as currently outlined in statute (e.g., reasonable, and justifiable).
Oppose statutory prohibition on residential fire sprinklers
(Request directed to State Legislature)
Position: The city opposes efforts that prohibit the future adoption of residential fire sprinkler
codes.
Urban forest management funding
(Request directed to State Legislature)
Issue: Many pests like Emerald ash borer (EAB) and other climate related events threaten our
investment in trees. The costs for control and removal can be catastrophic and put pressure on
city budgets. Specifically, EAB is the most destructive and economically costly forest pest ever
to invade North America. Ash trees killed by EAB become brittle very quickly and will begin to
fall apart and threaten overhead cables and power lines, vehicles, buildings, and people. Few
cities are prepared, and no city can easily afford the costs and the liability threats resulting from
EAB. Peer-reviewed studies have confirmed that a coordinated, landscape-based strategy is
more cost-effective than fighting EAB city by city.
In addition, there are new maintenance costs for the hundreds of thousands of new trees that
are being installed. The lack of juvenile tree maintenance and pruning in maturing trees from
the mass plantings after significant tree loss due to Dutch Elm Disease presents an opportunity
to address the same issue now with investment in tree planting programming.
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, through its Urban and Community Forestry
program, and the Minnesota Department of Agriculture, through its Shade Tree and Invasive
Species program, currently has regulatory authority to direct tree sanitation and control
programs. Although these programs allow for addressing some tree diseases, pests, and other
Study session meeting of January 9, 2023 (Item No. 1) Page 12
Title: 2023 legislative priorities
problems, funding levels have been inadequate to meet the need of cities to build capacity for
urban tree programs and respond to catastrophic problems. A lack of timely investment in
urban forests costs cities significantly more in the long run. Further, more and more cities are
facing immediate costs for the identification, removal, replacement, and treatment of EAB as it
spreads across the state. The state has no program to assist cities in covering those expenses.
Position: St. Louis Park supports funding from the general fund or other appropriate state funds
for a state matching grant program to provide technical assistance and grants to communities
for EAB management/removal costs and related practices. Specifically, direct grants to cities are
desperately needed for the identification, removal, replacement, and treatment of trees
related to the management of EAB. The state should establish an ongoing grant program with
at least $5 million per year that is usable for those activities.
The City of St. Louis Park also supports funding for the long term management of urban forests
in the state including unlocking federal resources with state matching funds that could become
available from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, the Inflation Reduction Act or other
sources.
Study session meeting of January 9, 2023 (Item No. 1) Page 13
Title: 2023 legislative priorities
Economic Development
DEED Program Funding
(Request directed to State Legislature)
Issue: The Department of Employment & Economic Development (DEED) is critically important
in the support of communities and local economic development initiatives. DEED manages
several programs utilized by the city that have positively impacted St. Louis Park. Programs
administered by DEED and other state agencies include, but are not limited to, small business
assistance and a wide variety of financing and grant programs to aid emerging entrepreneurs,
Indian-owned businesses, veteran-owned businesses, and larger businesses to grow and
expand.
Position: St. Louis Park supports the continued annual funding of DEED programs at stable,
sustainable, or increased levels as it is vital to economic growth across Minnesota. The city
further supports the continuation of the Angel Tax Credit to spur the startup of high-technology
businesses in Minnesota. Communities rely on these programs to remain competitive with
neighboring states in their efforts to bring jobs back to Minnesota and expand the tax base.
Special Service Districts Statutory Authority
(Request directed to State Legislature)
Issue: In 1988, cities were granted general authority under Minn. Stat. § 428A.01 to§ 428A.101
to establish Special Service Districts. As the law is currently written, only commercial properties
can financially participate within Special Service Districts. This is challenging for funding
additional services within mixed-use project areas as they have multiple types of property. The
City of St. Louis Park has established six Special Service Districts, including multiple sections of
Excelsior Boulevard. Providing infrastructure improvements and ongoing maintenance at the
LRT station near these areas may be impacted by this law.
Position: The city supports the inclusion of multi-family housing developments as financial
participants within Special Service Districts and the establishment of Special Service Districts
around transit and LRT station areas.
Telecommunications and information technology
(Request directed to State Legislature and U.S. Congress)
Issue: Telecommunications and information technology is essential public infrastructure for the
efficient, equitable, and affordable delivery of local government services to residents and
businesses. Telecommunications includes voice, video, data, and services delivered over cable,
telephone, fiber-optic, wireless, and all other platforms. The city and League of Minnesota
Cities support a balanced approach to telecommunications policy that allows new technologies
to flourish while preserving local regulatory authority. Regulations and oversight of
telecommunications services are important prerogatives for local government to advance
community interests, including the provision of high-quality basic services that meet local
needs, spur economic development, and are available at affordable rates to all consumers. For
the City of St. Louis Park, this is also consistent with its priority efforts to advance racial equity
and to be a technology connected community. Supportive policies should also not diminish
local authority to work cooperatively with other public agencies, non-profit organizations, and
Study session meeting of January 9, 2023 (Item No. 1) Page 14
Title: 2023 legislative priorities
the private sector to broaden choice and competition of telecommunications services to meet
local needs.
Position: The city opposes the adoption of state and federal policies that restrict cities’ ability to
finance, construct, or operate telecommunications networks.
Study session meeting of January 9, 2023 (Item No. 1) Page 15
Title: 2023 legislative priorities
General Government
Adult use cannabis
(Request directed to the State Legislature and U.S. Congress)
Issue: Legalizing adult-use cannabis in Minnesota could occur at a state and federal level.
Cannabis is currently a schedule one drug under the Controlled Substances Act of 1970 which
means it is illegal to use for recreational or medical purposes at a federal level, however,
several states have allowed exceptions for those purposes. In addition, President Biden has
recently engaged in executive action to review the schedule one status of the substance, along
with an expungement of federal convictions for simple possession. The State of Minnesota
allows for the medical use of cannabis, and recently, the legislature passed legislation that
authorized the sale of certain edibles and beverages infused with tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)
extracted from hemp. The legislation provided limited regulation of these products in Minn.
Stat. § 151.72 under the Board of Pharmacy, including restrictions and requirements on
packaging, labeling, amount of THC, and sale of these products to those under the age of
21. The new law increases enforcement responsibilities for local governments which will result
in additional costs.
The City of St. Louis Park also recognizes the historical inequity used in the enforcement of
cannabis regulations and the resulting disparate impact these policies had on certain residents
of the community.
Position: The City of St. Louis Park supports efforts at the state legislature to legalize the use of
cannabis for recreational purposes by adults and further supports using funds raised from taxes
on the sale of cannabis to remediate negative effects that may result from legalization.
As the legislature addresses future issues related to cannabinoids the City of St. Louis Park
supports a regulatory framework with consideration to race equity, public safety, taxation,
employment, and public health. The state regulatory framework should include clear licensing,
inspection, and enforcement for the cultivation, manufacturing, and distribution to retailers of
cannabinoid products and testing requirements similar to what is required under Minn. Stat. §
152.29 for the medical cannabis program. Further, the city supports maintaining local
ordinance control over retail licenses, zoning regulations, and additional restrictions. The city
also supports the state maintaining a database of all license holders
Increased aircraft noise with implementation of Area Navigation (RNAV)
(Request directed to the State Legislature)
Issue: RNAV is an electronic system allowing precise, repeatable navigation tracks for airplanes
to follow rather than using ground-based navigation aids. Performance-Based Navigation (PBN)
is an umbrella term for satellite-based procedures including RNAV. The federal program to
implement these systems set a goal to use RNAV for the Minneapolis-St. Paul International
Airport (MSP) by 2025.
Many metro area residents and cities responded with concerns when the Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA) initially announced plans to implement RNAV without a public process.
Media coverage and awareness built by elected leaders resulted in a temporary compromise of
Study session meeting of January 9, 2023 (Item No. 1) Page 16
Title: 2023 legislative priorities
only utilizing RNAV for arrivals, where the flight corridors were already narrowly defined. These
routes are used to an approximate range of seven miles from the airport on arrival due to
aircraft needing to align with runways.
Current departure tracks fan out, essentially distributing noise pollution from departing aircraft
over a large area of residential neighborhoods in several cities. The intent of RNAV is to
consolidate the fanned distribution into fewer tracks, resulting in closely spaced flights directly
over homes along a path aligned to the runway in use. In the previous proposal on departures,
which was rejected in favor of the arrival-only compromise, one of the tracks went directly over
the City of St. Louis Park. Noise pollution from frequent flights, which could occur every 2-3
minutes on a busy day, can have a negative effect on quality of life. The area of home
mitigation for noise intrusion because of the Airport Consent Decree (RCA-2021-01426) related
to similar noise pollution ends approximately one mile east of France Ave, which is the eastern
boundary of the City of St. Louis Park. This would mean that the type of assistance given to
homeowners as the result of the previous consent decree would not be available to any St.
Louis Park residents, even as the level of noise increases dramatically. While the program that
resulted from the consent decree helped reduce the area of the loudest noise inside those
homes, it does not provide relief when windows are open, or people are outdoors. There is no
plan to expand the area of mitigation related to the increase in traffic.
St. Louis Park is committed to lead in environmental stewardship. Aircraft use has a direct and
significant impact on climate change and is known to produce carbon emissions in high
amounts relative to other transportation methods. The impact of changes to systems used by
aircraft should also include a review of the potential impacts of any policy change on climate.
Position: The city encourages the state legislature and U.S. Congress to support a public process
before FAA further expands RNAV at MSP, and to work with the Metropolitan Airports
Commission in evaluating how RNAV could be used to intentionally distribute departing aircraft
noise more equitably while also considering the environmental impact of the change.
Cable franchising authority
(Request directed to State Legislature and U.S. Congress)
Issue: In 2019, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) issued the “621 Order” which
took effect with the potential to significantly reduce franchise fee and public, educational and
government (PEG) fee revenue received by cities from cable operators, as well as potentially
requiring payment for in-kind services received by schools and government buildings from cable
operators. While this Order was eventually softened due in part to a joint appeal in which the
city participated, the door remains open for cable operators to impose additional costs and to
challenge local franchising authority. While the City of St. Louis Park in 2021 successfully
completed a 10-year cable franchise agreement with Comcast with no mention of imposing
these fees, the Order remains unresolved and is important to continue to monitor.
Position: The Legislature, Federal Communications Commission (FCC), and Congress should
continue to recognize, support and maintain the exercise of local franchising authority to
ensure access of residents to community programming.
Study session meeting of January 9, 2023 (Item No. 1) Page 17
Title: 2023 legislative priorities
National Popular Vote Interstate Compact
(Request directed to State Legislature)
Issue: The National Vote Interstate Compact takes the form of an agreement among the states,
meaning that it is adopted state-by-state until enough are included in the compact such that it
takes effect. Currently, the office of the President of the United States is elected by use of the
electoral college. Representatives from each state, proportional in number to that state’s
congressional delegation, are elected to vote at an assembly of members to elect the president.
The members of each state delegation are generally determined by a winner-takes-all method,
meaning that if the representatives of a particular candidate receive more than any other, they
are sent as a delegation to the college.
Under the compact, the delegation would instead be determined by the national popular vote
for the office of President of the United States, regardless of who won on a state-by-state basis,
if enough states agree to the compact whose representative total a majority of the college’s
members. Essentially, this compact would circumvent the regular process and instead allow the
office of President of the United States to be determined by the national popular vote for that
office.
Legislation to this effect has been introduced both as a bill and a constitutional amendment in
the Minnesota legislature.
Position: The City of St. Louis Park supports the adoption of legislation that would allow the
State of Minnesota to join the National Popular Vote Interstate Compact
Levy limits
(Request directed to State Legislature)
Issue: Levy limits remove local authority regarding the appropriate level of local taxation and
local services. Changing circumstances often require an informed and well-managed financial
and budgetary response using a variety of different methods. Restrictions on revenue flexibility
for highly variable needs can therefore be counter-productive and reduce the capacity for long-
term planning.
Position: St. Louis Park opposes efforts to establish a levy limit or other proposed restrictions
for local government budgets. Based on our legislative policies that strongly support local
budgetary decision-making, St. Louis Park opposes levy limits of any type.
Minnesota Health Plan
(Request directed to State Legislature and U.S. Congress)
Position: St. Louis Park City Council affirms that health care is a human right and supports the
MN Health Plan and the Medicare for All Act.
Open Meeting Law
(Request directed to State Legislature)
Issue: The open meeting law allows certain meetings to be held using interactive technology
provided that all members of the body can hear and see one another and hear all discussion
and testimony. Further, the meeting must be able to be seen and heard by members of the
public for all discussion, testimony, and votes and have at least one member of the body
Study session meeting of January 9, 2023 (Item No. 1) Page 18
Title: 2023 legislative priorities
physically present at the regular meeting location. Finally, it requires that each remote location
is open and accessible to the public. A commonsense approach has been applied to technology
questions which recognizes the difficulty cities face when interpreting the open meeting law
considering the pace of change in technology.
Unfortunately, technology has consistently outpaced the open meeting law. Recent city
response to COVID-19 has illustrated that remote participation in meetings can allow for
meaningful and equitable interaction between the public bodies and the public. Further,
remote meetings can create additional access points for residents and encourage the type of
civic activity that the open meeting law hopes to protect. Cities need greater flexibility to utilize
technology for meetings.
Position: The City of St. Louis Park supports changes to the open meeting law, which grants
cities, public bodies, and elected officials reasonable flexibility to use available technologies to
communicate with residents while maintaining the protections and intent of the open meeting
law.
Records retention related to correspondence
(Request directed to State Legislature)
Issue: A statewide standard retention period for correspondence would allow for digital forms
of messaging to have clear rules. The current standard can represent a burden by including
social media and text messaging in the definition of correspondence. Social media and text
messaging capture typically requires separate capture software/hardware than email, and thus
contributes to increased costs. Additionally, the various device providers (Verizon, Apple, etc.)
typically require separate legal orders from the court to obtain text message records for an
individual if the message is not actively stored on the device. This contributes to increased legal
costs and is overly burdensome on local jurisdictions.
Position: The City of St. Louis Park supports a standard correspondence retention period
including at least a 3-year minimum retention standard. Further, the city supports an
exemption that makes it clear that any entity/individual requesting such data would be
responsible for obtaining the appropriate legal orders to search and obtain such data to the
extent it exists should they be needed.
Safeguard public code administration employees
(Request directed to State Legislature)
Issue: As public safety regulators, building, housing, and other inspectors often face hostility
from members of the public. A no tolerance position for abusive behavior should be adopted.
Assaults and murder have occurred on code officials in the normal course of performing their
duties for a local government unit.
Position: Support Minnesota League of Cities policy on assaults on code enforcement officials.
The change would move assault charges from the current fifth degree, or misdemeanor, to a
more stringent fourth degree, a gross misdemeanor, by expanding the public Employees with
Mandated Duties statute to include code enforcement officials.
Study session meeting of January 9, 2023 (Item No. 1) Page 19
Title: 2023 legislative priorities
State and Local Cybersecurity Grant Program (SLCGP)
(Request directed to State Legislature)
Issue: The State and Local Cybersecurity Grant Program (SLCGP) is a notice of funding provided
through the Infrastructure Investment and Job Act (IIJA) of 2021. The IIJA requires state
governments have a funding match. The State of Minnesota did not pass a bill to match cost-
share funding before the end of their 2022 session. There have been some conversations
around the concept that Minnesota cities could apply and bring their own 10% cost-sharing
match. In the meantime, the League of Minnesota Cities is using this pause in year 1 funding to
focus on the 2023 state budgeting session to ensure education and advocacy with the
legislature for the importance of cybersecurity and matching the IIJA funds for local
government.
Position: The city is aware of the critical importance of cybersecurity and supports the state
legislature approving a match for IIJA funds for local government related to the SLCGP and
other grant programs that would improve the security of systems used by the city to store data.
Study session meeting of January 9, 2023 (Item No. 1) Page 20
Title: 2023 legislative priorities
Housing
Affordable housing fee on new development
(Request directed to State Legislature)
Issue: There is an increasing need for affordable housing across the state. Additional funds are
needed to create and maintain affordable housing units within the city. An affordable housing
fee on new development would help increase funds for future housing projects and initiatives.
Position: The city supports legislation that would allow for the collection of an affordable
housing fee on new development.
Emergency Housing Assistance
(Request directed to State Legislature)
Issue: Limited resources are available to assist households experiencing a housing crisis. Short-
term emergency assistance is available to make one-time rent assistance payments or other
one-time emergency payments at the county level as well as from some non-profit agencies;
however, it can be daunting and overwhelming to a household in crisis to navigate these
resources. Additionally, finding housing for people with barriers to finding housing such as a
history of eviction, a criminal history, or a person having a history of being unstably housed
exacerbates this situation. These households often end up homeless, living in shelters or in
their cars. This is especially devastating to the children of these families, causing them to lose
ground in education and struggle with mental health issues. Resources are needed to provide
temporary housing that allows children to stay in their schools and provides a stable place for
the household in the interim. Funding is also needed to provide assistance to these households
through housing navigators that can connect the families to needed resources and assist them
in securing stable housing.
Position: The city supports increased funding for state, county and local resources and
programs to provide emergency housing and support navigating resources.
Local housing trust funds (LHTF)
(Request directed to State Legislature)
Issue: The legislature passed language that enables cities, counties, or regions to set up and
resource LHTF. They are a valuable tool to create and preserve affordable rental and ownership
housing. Many jurisdictions have enacted LHTF but many more don’t have the resources to
create or fund a LHTF for their community. The State Legislature has provided matching
funding to aid local jurisdictions in funding their LHTF.
Position: The city supports legislation that establishes an ongoing dedicated revenue source for
LHTFs, continues the state match, and provides technical assistance dollars to communities to
set up their individual LHTF and encourages them to set up a fund.
Statewide prohibition on discriminating against renters receiving rental assistance
(Request directed to the State Legislature)
Issue: Rental property owners can legally refuse to rent to people based solely on the source of
income to pay their rent, leaving many households that receive various types of rental
Study session meeting of January 9, 2023 (Item No. 1) Page 21
Title: 2023 legislative priorities
assistance unable to find housing. Additionally, the refusal to accept various types of rental
assistance falls disproportionally on households and persons of color.
Position: The city supports a statewide prohibition on discrimination against renters receiving
rental assistance.
Rental rehab loan program for small to medium size developments
(Request directed at the State Legislature)
Issue: Naturally occurring affordable housing (NOAH) is the largest resource of affordable
housing in the metro area. These multi-family residential rental developments which typically
have limited amenities are at risk of losing their affordability as investors purchase the
properties, renovate, add amenities, and increase rents. As an incentive for current NOAH
properties owners to retain the affordability of their properties, a multi-family rehab loan fund
should be established to provide funding for rehab and capital investment in the development
in exchange for establishing rent restrictions. St. Louis Park has established a multi-family
housing rehab loan program to preserve NOAH properties and maintain affordable rents. A
similar program should be developed at the state level to address this issue statewide.
Position: St. Louis Park strongly supports and encourages preservation of affordable housing.
The city supports the establishment of a statewide housing rehab loan program to facilitate the
preservation of NOAH multi-family residential rental properties and encourage owners to retain
the affordability of their developments.
Continue to provide revenue resources for affordable housing
(Request directed to State Legislature)
Issue: The need for affordable housing in the State of Minnesota continues to grow, requiring a
larger response than local jurisdictions can provide on their own. Increased state level funding
is critical to enable local jurisdictions to enact programs to facilitate the creation and
preservation of affordable housing, including subsidized and naturally occurring affordable
housing.
Position: The City supports financing sources and increased funding for local and regional
programs to provide stable and long-term funding. This would encourage innovation and
provide flexibility for cities to leverage resources with public and private entities to reduce
barriers to stable housing and homeownership. Stable funding would also help facilitate the
creation and preservation of affordable housing.
Establish a TOD (transit-oriented development) affordable housing fund
(Request directed to State Leg/Hennepin Co)
Issue: Efforts are being made to develop a corridor-wide housing strategy for the South West Light
Rail Transit (SWLRT) corridor for providing a full range of housing options specifically within a half-
mile of the station areas. Funding is needed to aid in the construction of new affordable housing
along the corridor. However, of critical importance is the preservation of naturally occurring
affordable housing, both rental and ownership, within a half mile of the Greenline Extension
corridor as gentrification continues to displace low-income residents and homeowners in this area.
These pressures will only continue to increase over time. Significant funding is needed to
proactively preserve this housing and prevent displacement.
Study session meeting of January 9, 2023 (Item No. 1) Page 22
Title: 2023 legislative priorities
Position: The city supports the creation of a TOD affordable housing fund and requests that
Hennepin County and the State of Minnesota provide a financial resource to be used to support the
preservation and creation of affordable housing along the SWLRT corridor.
Study session meeting of January 9, 2023 (Item No. 1) Page 23
Title: 2023 legislative priorities
Public Safety Issues
Criminal background checks
(Request directed to State Legislature)
Issue: Every day in Minnesota guns are sold by unlicensed sellers without first conducting a
criminal background check to ensure that the buyer is not a prohibited purchaser.
Analysis: The federal Gun Control Act of 1968 stipulates that individuals "engaged in the
business" of selling firearms must possess a Federal Firearms License (FFL). Holders of FFLs are
required to conduct background checks and maintain a record of all their firearm sales. Certain
gun sales and transfers between private individuals, however, are exempt from this
requirement. Those who would fail a background check can access firearms through these
sources. Unlike an FFL, the seller is not required to conduct a background check to determine
whether the purchaser is prohibited from purchasing and possessing a gun. Federal, state, local
and tribal laws should be enacted to close these loopholes. If all gun sales proceed through an
FFL, a single, consistent system for conducting gun sales, including background checks, will be
established. Current law to ensure gun purchasers go through FFLs are undermined by
oversights in the law that allow individuals prohibited from owning firearms to obtain weapons
at events such as gun shows without undergoing a background check.
Position: The City supports preventing individuals who are not legally able to purchase a gun
from doing so without background checks at gun shows, online, or in private transactions. This
proposal would close the online, gun show, and individual sale loophole by requiring all sales to
at least have a criminal background check at the point of sale at an FFL before a transaction is
legally allowed to occur.
Local control of emergency medical services
(Request directed to State Legislature)
Issue: Current laws regulating emergency medical services (EMS) in Minnesota allow ambulance
providers the ability to provide EMS services in an exclusive operating area known as a Primary
Service Area (PSA) for an indefinite amount of time with little or no oversight or transparency.
Analysis: Ambulance services currently have no response time requirement from the
Emergency Medical Services Regulatory Board (EMSRB) - the state's EMS regulatory agency
which oversees and issues ambulance licenses. The EMSRB also has no oversight on ambulance
billing rates, while ambulance services (both public and private) have the ability to use revenue
recapture to receive unpaid bills from an individual's state tax returns. These are only a few of
the many examples of the limited oversight of ambulance services in the state. The current
system does not require ambulance services to disclose the number of staffed ambulances,
where the ambulance is responding from, or any other important data points that would
ensure a community is receiving quality ambulance services. While the current structure of
Minnesota's EMS regulations is intended to create exclusive operating areas, there are
numerous overlapping service areas across the state with no guidance on who has the authority
to determine which provider is the primary ambulance service for those overlapped areas.
Position: It is our belief that local units of government who are closest to the service delivery
area are best positioned to determine who the licensed ambulance provider is, what level of
Study session meeting of January 9, 2023 (Item No. 1) Page 24
Title: 2023 legislative priorities
service is provided, and should have the authority to ensure there is transparency. The city
proposes uncoupling professional standards overview by the EMSRB from the service area
determination. This would allow the local unit of government to determine who provides
service within their political boundary. This allows the professional standards to continue to be
set by the EMSRB which is made up of industry professionals and stakeholders.
Oppose expansion of legal fireworks
(Request directed to State Legislature)
Issue: There is a continued effort to expand the sale and use of a wider variety of fireworks
Analysis: Under a proposed bill, the measure would prohibit cities from banning the sale of
fireworks, but it allows cities to pass ordinances banning people from using fireworks. Exploding
fireworks would be available for purchase from June 1 to July 7, the use is not restricted. In the
city of St. Louis Park where both business and residential properties are in close proximity there
is an unacceptable level of risk given that many buildings are wood frame combustible
construction, non-sprinkled and high occupancy. There is an inherent danger in aerial fireworks
which cause a number of injuries and pose a serious fire risk.
Position: The city opposes the following legislation which expands fireworks in Minnesota
• Tents (2018 - HF328/SF235)
• Bricks and Mortar (2017- HF1395/SF1191
Gun violence protective orders (GVPOS)
(Request directed to State Legislature)
Issue: The Bipartisan Safer Communities act updated standards related to gun violence
protective orders changing regulations on firearm purchases for those convicted of domestic
assault among other changes. The City of St. Louis Park recognizes that on the issue of gun
violence prevention, historically underrepresented communities, immigrant groups and other
socially oppressed voices and visions must be central in the development, advocacy,
implementation, and evaluation of policies, programs, and practices as well as in the
distribution of resources.
Position: The city supports allowing law enforcement, qualified health care practitioners, family
members, and intimate partners who believe an individual's dangerous behavior has a
substantial likelihood to lead to violence to request an order from a civil court authorizing law
enforcement to temporarily remove any guns in the individual's possession and to prohibit new
gun purchases for the duration of the order.
Continued health insurance coverage for disabled public safety officers
(Request directed to State Legislature)
Issue: MS299A.465 states that the employer is responsible for continued payment of their
contribution for health insurance coverage for police officers, firefighters, and dependents, if
applicable, that were disabled in the line of duty. Although cities may request a reimbursement
of the health insurance payments, only a fraction is reimbursed from the Department of Public
Safety, resulting in increasing costs due to this functionally unfunded mandate.
Study session meeting of January 9, 2023 (Item No. 1) Page 25
Title: 2023 legislative priorities
Position: The city has only been partially reimbursed for the cost of this mandate. Over the past
10 years, the city has paid over $375,000 in health contributions for disabled public safety
officers, and only 15% of the city’s 2021 request was reimbursed. The city requests that this
mandate be fully funded by the state.
Investments for mandated law enforcement training
(Request directed to State Legislature)
Position: The city supports increasing the POST Board training reimbursement allocation to local
agencies, which began in 2018, into fiscal year 2022-2023 through the Peace Officer Training
Fund. This funding helps provide mandated training in the areas of recognizing and valuing
diversity and cultural differences, conflict management and mediation, crisis intervention and
resolving mental Illness crises.
Police trainee/non-traditional pathway to policing program
(Request directed to State Legislature)
Issue: The candidate pool for police officers in Minnesota continues to shrink in number and
diversity of candidates. There is a narrowing in the representation of a candidate’s diversity
including but not limited to race and ethnicity; gender; age and related life experience; and
academic and career development in other disciplines. During the 2017 legislative session,
$400,000 was appropriated for communities participating in this new program on a 50/50 cost
split. The City of St. Louis Park and other cities have used this approach as a tool for diversifying
their departments, often partnering together to fill vacancies. Since 2017, St. Louis Park has
hired 6 officers (one each year) via this program and finds it to be successful. The need to
create a wider and deeper candidate pool will continue to be a long-term challenge for all
police departments in the state.
Position: The city requests that this funding not only be maintained but increased in future
biennia.
Permit to Purchase Firearms/Permit to Carry
(Request directed to State Legislature)
Issue: Currently the Permits to Purchase Firearms statute (MN Stat. 624.7131; 624.7132)
requires local law enforcement agencies to complete required background checks within 7 days
and the Permit to Carry (MN Stat. 624.714) statute requires a county’s sheriff department to
complete the required background checks within 30 days.
The St. Louis Park Police Department completes approximately 300 permit to purchase
background checks per year. In 2020, the St. Louis Park Police Department completed
approximately 572 permit to purchase background checks and 339 in 2021. Aligning the two
statutes to require the background checks be done in 30 days would allow local law
enforcement agencies more time to complete thorough background checks and also reduce the
number of applicants who attempt to buy a firearm on impulse.
Position: St. Louis Park supports aligning the Permit to Purchase Firearms statutes (MN Stat.
624.7131; 624. 7132) with the Permit to Carry (MN Stat. 624.714) statute in terms of the time
required for conducting background checks (from 7 to 30 days).
Study session meeting of January 9, 2023 (Item No. 1) Page 26
Title: 2023 legislative priorities
Statewide data collection on race and/or ethnicity for stopped motorists
(Request directed to State Legislature)
Issue: There is no statewide method of collecting a motorist's race or ethnicity for traffic stops.
Some police departments ask officers to report a person's race and/or ethnicity. This option
results in officers making assumptions about the motorist's race and/or ethnicity and can lead
to inaccurate data. The data would assist law enforcement agencies that are currently or
considering collecting and analyzing race data on traffic stops. Having the data available would
provide for more reliable race data by not requiring officers to ask the person’s race, which
could create an adversarial situation or potentially must guess the subject's race.
Analysis: A statewide system would allow for agencies to submit, and most importantly review,
accurate data to better assess racial profiling in cities across the state. This information allows
for greater police transparency and accountability.
Position: The city supports a statewide system that accurately tracks information on traffic
stops, including race and ethnicity, of stopped motorists.
Study session meeting of January 9, 2023 (Item No. 1) Page 27
Title: 2023 legislative priorities
Transportation Issues
Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA)
(Request directed to State Legislature)
Analysis: The passage of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) represents a
generationally significant investment in roads, jobs, and community connections. These funds,
if fully approved as intended, could be used to quickly move forward several key projects that
would connect regionally significant areas increasing business and community development. In
addition, these resources have the potential to create workforce opportunities for residents in
the form of skilled labor jobs. Significant resources are also available in the approved legislation
to expand and advance the city's goal of reducing carbon emissions and improving the climate
through resources like an electric vehicle charging network. Currently, the funding is contingent
on the approval of a federal budget and the approval of the full regular transportation budget
for the State of Minnesota.
In the 2022 session, legislators did not act on approving the use of these funds. The funding
does not roll over from year to year, and any state allocation that is not used is distributed to
other states each year.
Position: The City of St. Louis Park supports adoption of a transportation budget that allows for
full access to additional resources approved in the IIJA.
Railway safety of hazardous materials and oil train operations
(Request directed to State)
Issue: There will be continued flow of hazardous material commodities including but not limited
to crude oil and ethanol at current or increased levels in the future in St. Louis Park.
Analysis: The demand for these commodities and the proximity of facilities in Minneapolis that
use them may make St Louis Park an alternative for managing heavy traffic and staging within
the system. The potential risks across the system include the BNSF, CP and TCW lines. Track
improvements that result from the SWLRT will allow for higher speeds and safer options for the
rail companies to consider through St Louis Park.
Position: St. Louis Park needs to be an active participant in legislative discussions around the
accountability, safety and funding of accident prevention and responder training, and
information sharing. The city supports funding for community awareness, mitigation, and
resiliency efforts as well. Rail companies need to be required to share the needed information
for response and mitigation. The city also supports the reinstatement of fees on railroads and
pipelines.
Redesign and reconstruction of CSAH (county state aid highway) 25
(Request directed to Hennepin County)
Issue: The city and county have developed a long-term vision to transform the CSAH 25 Corridor
from the rural design highway that it is today to a multimodal urban boulevard with well-
designed landscape architecture and place-making features. The goal is to transform this
Hennepin County road into an amenity rich, pedestrian and bicycle friendly, transit-oriented
Boulevard, between Trunk Highway 100 and France Avenue. A clear long-term vision for CSAH
Study session meeting of January 9, 2023 (Item No. 1) Page 28
Title: 2023 legislative priorities
25 will serve to guide both public and private investment in this corridor. Already, the SWLRT
Beltline station, park & ride, and proposed Beltline Station Redevelopment project is beginning
to transform the west end of this corridor. The Shoreham mixed-use project started the
transformation at the east end, followed by Parkway 25 and the current Parkway Residences
project which continue the redevelopment pattern of the east end. The new concept for CSAH
25, which was developed in concert with Hennepin County, supports a change to a more urban
place that provides safe, attractive access to the Beltline LRT station in St. Louis Park and the
neighboring W. Lake Street LRT station in Minneapolis.
Analysis: The transformation of CSAH 25 into an urban boulevard would include the following
actions and considerations:
• A commitment from Hennepin County, with involvement from Minneapolis, to changing
the corridor.
• CSAH 25 serves many important functions and is home to a surprising number of
businesses, residents, and property owners. All stakeholders should be informed and
involved in the design processes.
• Integration of the planned improvements associated with SWLRT between Beltline
Boulevard and Lynn Avenue and the W. Lake Street multi-modal transportation plan into
the vision for the corridor.
• Strong connections to existing and planned bicycle routes, filling the existing gap in
access to the Cedar Lake Trail from the north.
• Providing space for pedestrians in the corridor and safe connections across CSAH 25 to
get to destinations. This includes amenities and landscaping to create a place where
people want to walk and spend time.
• Addressing storm water drainage and treatment.
• Consideration of the east end triangle-shaped area, where Minnetonka Blvd, CSAH 25,
France Avenue and W. Lake Street meet. This area presents both opportunities for
gateway treatments for both Minneapolis and St Louis Park as well as operational
challenges for pedestrians, bicyclists, and local businesses.
• Consideration of a new name for the roadway that provides a positive identity while
eliminating the currently existing address confusion. Just as CSAH 5 is also named
Minnetonka Boulevard, CSAH 25 needs a street name around which an image and
identity can be built. In the case of CSAH 25, there is added confusion because of its
history of being originally part of MN Highway 7, a name that continues to be used by
many.
• Development of a funding and phasing plan. Transforming CSAH 25 will be a large
project and will take time and significant resources to implement. New development in
the corridor may be able to play a significant role in funding the transformation, but
timing will be critical for that to happen.
Position: We thank Hennepin County for their participation in the redesign process and for
incorporating improvements at the east end of CSAH 25 (between Inglewood and France
Avenue) into the Minnetonka Boulevard reconstruction project. We request the County’s
support and funding for implementing future phases of this vision for CSAH 25.
Southwest LRT
(Directed to State Legislature, Met Council & Hennepin County)
Study session meeting of January 9, 2023 (Item No. 1) Page 29
Title: 2023 legislative priorities
Analysis: The Southwest LRT Project has been a major undertaking in the City of St. Louis Park
and promises to connect residents in a new and important way to the regional economy of the
west metro, twin cities and wider metropolitan area. Support for this project has meant residents
have accommodated construction and development with the hope of future connections to
opportunities. Continued support for the project means ensuring that this and other routes in
the LRT system see the completion of stations, connections to the transportation network, and
development of major housing and business projects. Support from the state of Minnesota,
Hennepin County and the legislature are vital to the completion of the project in a timely
manner.
This project also supports the city's goal of offering multimodal transportation options to
residents to reduce the use of carbon-based fuel. The completion of this project is vital to the
city’s goal of achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2040.
Following the announcement of delays to the construction timeline and completion of the
project, an audit of the project was ordered by the state legislature.
Position: The City continues to strongly support the Southwest LRT Project and urges the State
of Minnesota and Hennepin County to meet planned deadlines for the operation of this line.
The city supports keeping open regionally impacted trails and transit ways and encourages a
swift resolution to issues with the timeline that ensures completion of the project as soon as is
feasible.
Texas Avenue/Minnetonka Blvd. intersection reconstruction
(Request directed to Hennepin County)
Issue: Texas Avenue between Lake Street and Wayzata Boulevard is one of the few continuous
north-to-south roadway connections in the City of St. Louis Park. The city reconstructed the
section of Texas Avenue from Lake Street to 400 feet south of Minnetonka Boulevard in 2017
and 2018. The new roadway includes bicycle, pedestrian and intersection improvements that
have greatly increased the efficiency and safety in this segment of the corridor. The road
project stopped short of the Minnetonka Boulevard intersection. In 2016 and 2018 a bikeway
was installed along Texas Avenue north of Minnetonka Boulevard. There has been significant
private investment in the Texa Tonka area. In 2020, the Texa Tonka shopping center reopened
after a two-year renovation. In September 2021, construction started on a multi-family
development at the northeast corner of this intersection. To complete the upgrade of the Texas
Avenue corridor, we would like to partner with Hennepin County on the reconstruction of the
intersection. The new intersection would include separate bicycle facilities, sidewalk
improvements, better sightlines for drivers, signal replacement, and ADA upgrades. All things
that are much needed at this location.
Position: The city is requesting that Hennepin County partner with the City for the
reconstruction of the Texas Avenue/Minnetonka Blvd intersection.
Analysis: To extend the bicycle, pedestrian and roadway enhancements that were completed to
the south and to the north of the Minnetonka Boulevard intersection the following items would
need to be addressed.
• Sidewalks: The sidewalks require updating to meet ADA requirements for pedestrian
ramps, width, and clearance from obstructions.
Study session meeting of January 9, 2023 (Item No. 1) Page 30
Title: 2023 legislative priorities
• Bike lanes: In 2018, the county enhanced the bike lanes on Minnetonka Boulevard.
However, at the intersection, these lanes do not have adequate space. The same is true
for the bikeway on Texas Avenue. Most bicycle related crashes occur at intersections, it
is important to maintain the bikeway through the intersection to eliminate confusion for
all users of the road.
• Intersection modifications: the city has developed a layout for this intersection that will
greatly improve the way it operates for all users. Eliminating sightlines issues, creating
space for bicycles and pedestrians.
• Replace signal system: The new signal system and intersection geometrics should be
updated to include flashing yellow arrows and turn lanes as needed to improve traffic
flow. The signal should be able to detect bicycles. Finally, the pedestrian push buttons
will be replaced to meet ADA requirements.
Transit financing
(Request directed to State Legislature)
Issue: The Twin Cities metropolitan area is served by a regional transit system that is expanding
to include rail transit and dedicated busways. The funding to support this system should come
from a regional or statewide funding source. The property taxpayers of individual cities and
counties should not be required to fund the operation of specific transit lines or routes of
service within this regional system.
Analysis: MVST revenue projections have not been reliable, and the Legislature has repeatedly
reduced general fund support for Metropolitan Transit. As a result, the regional transit
providers continue to operate at a funding deficit. Shifting demographics in the metropolitan
region will mean increased demand for transit in areas with and without current transit service.
Position: The city supports stable and growing revenue sources to fund the operating budget
for all regional transit providers at a level sufficient to meet the growing operational and capital
transit needs of the region and to expand the system to areas that currently have little or no
transit options. The city also supports an increase in the regional sales tax to fund the
expansion of regular route service, continuing capital expenses, and expanded operational
needs of the metropolitan transit system. If the increase is accompanied by sufficient local
controls over the collection and expenditure of the new revenue and geographic balance is
maintained in the expansion of service to allow cities to appropriately plan for growth in
population and service needs along new and expanded transit service. The city opposes
diversions of the uses of this tax for any other purposes.
Transportation funding
(Request directed to State Legislature)
Issue: A comprehensive transportation system is a vital component in planning for and meeting
the physical, social, and economic needs of our state and metropolitan region. Adequate and
stable sources of funding are necessary to ensure the construction and maintenance of high
quality, efficient and safe transportation system to meet these needs.
The City of St. Louis Park also recognizes that the overall objective of a comprehensive
transportation system is to develop an enhanced and more inclusive approach to public
transportation planning and decision-making. This would include but is not limited to,
Study session meeting of January 9, 2023 (Item No. 1) Page 31
Title: 2023 legislative priorities
government entities having a critical role in addressing and correcting many of the problems
caused by a 20th- and 21st-century transportation that severely impacted and, in some cases
destroyed, Black and other minoritized communities in the building of today’s transportation
systems and network.
Under current transportation financing structures, funding to operate and maintain the existing
transportation system in the metropolitan region continues to be inadequate. Our
transportation funding relies primarily on local property taxes, local fees, gas tax, and the motor
vehicle sales tax (MVST). Automobiles are becoming more fuel efficient and MVST receipts
continue to lag projections, resulting in funding levels that continually fail to meet needs.
Transportation funding and planning must be a high priority for state, regional and local
policymakers so that the regional transportation system can sufficiently meet the needs of the
state’s residents and businesses and its projected population growth. This includes the
municipal state aid system. In addition, cities lack adequate resources for the maintenance and
improvement of local transportation systems, with funding sources restricted to property taxes,
local fees, and special assessments. Cost participation requirements for state and county roads
can overburden city budgets. It is imperative that alternative revenue generating authority be
granted to municipalities and additional state resources be made available for this purpose to
relieve the burden on the property tax system.
Position:
The city supports:
• Stable and sufficient statewide transportation funding, for all modes of travel
• Local funding tools to meet the long-term transportation system needs of the city
• Funding to assist cities overburdened by cost participation responsibilities
• State funding for state and county highway projects, including congestion and safety
improvements
• State financial assistance, as well as innovations in design and construction
Meeting: Study session
Meeting date: January 9, 2023
Written report: 2
Executive summary
Title: 2023 Cedar Lake Road (4023-1100) and 2024 Louisiana Avenue (4024-1100) improvement
projects update- Ward 4
Recommended action: None at this time. This report is intended to provide an overview of the
preferred alternatives for the proposed Cedar Lake Road and Louisiana Avenue reconstruction
projects. These projects will have a public hearing at the Jan. 17, 2023 city council meeting. At
the Feb. 6, 2023 meeting, council will be asked to consider the following questions and take
action on these projects.
Policy consideration:
1. Does the city council support the preferred alternative for the Cedar Lake Road
reconstruction project?
2. Does the city council support the preferred alternative for the Louisiana Avenue
reconstruction project?
Summary: The city is proposing to reconstruct Cedar Lake Road from Jordan Avenue to
Kentucky Avenue in 2024 and Louisiana Avenue from Wayzata Boulevard to the bridge over the
railroad just south of Cedar Lake Road in 2025. The city hired the consulting firm Kimley-Horn to
complete the project planning, preliminary design, and public engagement.
Since January 2022, the project team, made up of engineering, communications, and public
works staff, has been working with Kimley-Horn to develop a preferred design for both
corridors. The project team has done extensive community engagement to help inform the
recommended designs. The planning phase to develop and evaluate alternatives for these
projects is now complete. The project team has prepared a 30% layout of the preferred
alternatives that will be presented at the public hearing.
Financial or budget considerations: Together, these projects are estimated to cost $20 million,
and are included in the city’s capital improvement plan (CIP) using utility funds and general
obligation bonds. To help offset this, the city has secured funding toward construction costs: $7
million in regional solicitation and $2 million in congressionally directed spending. A
construction cost estimate will be provided as a part of the Jan. 17 public hearing report.
Strategic priority consideration: St. Louis Park is committed to providing a variety of options for
people to make their way around the city comfortably, safely and reliably.
Supporting documents: Discussion
Attachment #1: Cedar Lake Road preferred alternative layout
Attachment #2: Louisiana Ave preferred alternative layout
Attachment #3: Alternative evaluation
Attachment #4: Public engagement summaries
Prepared by: Joseph Shamla, engineering project manager
Reviewed by: Debra Heiser, engineering director
Approved by: Kim Keller, city manager
Study session meeting of January 9, 2023 (Item No. 2) Page 2
Title: 2023 Cedar Lake Road (4023-1100) and 2024 Louisiana Avenue (4024-1100) improvement projects update
Discussion
Background
The city is proposing to reconstruct Cedar Lake Road, between Jordan Avenue to Kentucky
Avenue, in 2024 and Louisiana Avenue, between Wayzata Boulevard to the bridge over the
railroad just south of Cedar Lake Road in 2025.
This segment of Cedar Lake Road is a bituminous roadway that was constructed in 1995.
Louisiana Avenue is a bituminous roadway that was constructed in 1991. Both roads are
nearing the end of their useful life. Staff is recommending reconstruction of these roadways
because routine maintenance activities such as bituminous overlays and crack seals are no
longer cost-effective in preserving the roads. In addition, the existing condition and geometry
pose challenges for people biking, walking, and with limited mobility. There is an existing
sidewalk on the north side of Cedar Lake Road and an existing sidewalk on the west side of
Louisiana Avenue.
Many intersections along these corridors do not meet the requirements of the Americans with
Disabilities Act. Residents provided feedback indicating their interest in safer pedestrian
crossings. In the existing condition, dedicated bicycle facilities are not provided along either
corridor. Currently, people wishing to bike along Cedar Lake Road either need to bike within the
vehicle travel lane or use the on-street parking lane, which is blocked when cars are parked on
the street. Anyone wishing to bike along Louisiana Avenue needs to bike within the vehicle
travel lane.
On street parking is currently allowed in the following locations:
• Louisiana Ave
o West side of the street, adjacent to Northside Park
• Cedar Lake Road
o North side of street
Flag Ave to Burd Place
Sumter Ave to Pennsylvania Ave
o South side of street
Jordan to Burd Place,
Sumter Ave to Oregon Ave
Project description
The proposed improvements for Cedar Lake Road include the following:
• Narrowing the roadway to provide traffic calming.
• New bicycle facility for all ages and all abilities.
• Constructing a new sidewalk on the south side of the road.
• Crosswalk enhancements for people walking and rolling, including raised medians
and user-actuated flashing beacons.
• Potential removal of the traffic signal at Cedar Lake Road and Texas Avenue and
Cedar Lake Road and Nevada Avenue. Further evaluation is required. A
recommendation will be provided when the plans are brought to council for final
approval.
• Storm sewer modifications as needed to align catch basins with the new curb lines.
Study session meeting of January 9, 2023 (Item No. 2) Page 3
Title: 2023 Cedar Lake Road (4023-1100) and 2024 Louisiana Avenue (4024-1100) improvement projects update
• Minor modifications to the watermain and sanitary sewer.
• Removal of existing on-street parking.
The proposed improvements for Louisiana Avenue include the following:
• Narrowing the roadway to provide traffic calming.
• Provide an alternate bikeway route that can be used by bicyclists of all ages and all
abilities.
• New sidewalk on the east side of the road.
• Remove the traffic signal and construct a roundabout at the Cedar Lake Road and
Louisiana Avenue intersection.
• Replacement of the traffic signal at Louisiana Avenue and Franklin Avenue with user-
actuated flashing beacons.
• Extend the median at the intersection of 14th Street and Louisiana Avenue,
restricting access.
• Crosswalk enhancements for people walking and rolling, including raised medians
and user-actuated flashing beacons.
• Storm sewer modifications as needed to align catch basins with the new curb lines.
• Minor modifications to the watermain and sanitary sewer.
• Removal of existing on street parking .
Public process
The project team was intentional in trying to meet with and engage the public. The public
engagement process started in the winter of 2022. Notifications were sent in many ways,
including letters, postcards, NextDoor, GovDelivery, social media, corridor signs, and sidewalk
decals. There was an interactive online map that community members could use to view the
proposed improvements and provide comments. Surveys were also available if people wanted
to write down their comments.
In order to reach an audience that may not attend public meetings, the project team also
attended St. Louis Park events such as Parktacular, State of the Community, and bike to work
day. There were multiple events at nearby apartment complexes and individual meetings with
religious groups, businesses, homeowners, and neighborhood associations.
There were three phases of engagement. See below to learn more about each phase.
Phase 1 engagement – project introduction and understanding (January 2022 – August 2022)
During this phase of the public engagement process, the project team shared with the
public the intent to reconstruct both the Cedar Lake Road and the Louisiana Avenue
corridors. The project team listened and gathered input from the public on issues and
concerns that currently exist prior to developing any design concepts.
The project team met with the community via two virtual open houses and four pop-up
events throughout the city. Thirty-five people attended the open houses. Signage and
decals were posted along the corridors, and residents and business owners were
notified by mail so that they could provide written comments or they could also provide
Study session meeting of January 9, 2023 (Item No. 2) Page 4
Title: 2023 Cedar Lake Road (4023-1100) and 2024 Louisiana Avenue (4024-1100) improvement projects update
comments via the online interactive map and survey. Approximately 420 comments and
125 survey responses were received during Phase 1 of the engagement.
Using the information gathered during Phase 1 engagement, the project team
developed three alternatives for each corridor that reflected the input and concerns of
the residents, businesses, and community stakeholders. Please see the attached report
summarizing the input received during this phase of engagement.
Phase 2 engagement – alternative development and refinement (September 2022 – November
2022)
The project team re-engaged stakeholders to evaluate the project alternatives. In
September 2022, three project alternatives for each corridor were introduced to the
public via an online and in-person open house. Seventy community members attended
the open houses. Also, during this time, three pop-up events were held at various
locations near the corridor to reach underrepresented residents.
The main difference between these alternatives is the type of bicycle facility. All
alternatives:
• Provide the same number of travel lanes and configurations for vehicular travel.
• Improve bicycle safety and provide a bicycle facility that can be used by all ages
and all abilities.
• Include pedestrian facilities on both sides of the road.
• Prohibit on-street parking in the corridor.
The alternatives for Cedar Lake Road were as follows:
Alternate No. 1 – Multi-use trail
Alternate No. 2 – Cycle tracks
Alternate No. 3 – Buffered bike lanes
The alternatives for Louisiana Avenue were as follows:
Alternate No. 1 – Multi-use trail
Alternate No. 2 – Cycle tracks
Alternate No. 3 – Alternate routes
To get community feedback, the project team created concept layouts and typical
sections, and updated the online interactive map to share the various alternatives with
the public. Approximately 130 comments and 45 survey responses were received
during Phase 2 of the engagement. Please see the attached report summarizing the
feedback during this phase of engagement.
Phase 3 engagement – presentation of preferred alternatives (December 2022 – present)
The project team used the information that was received during the previous phases
and evaluated the various alternatives based on several criteria to come up with one
preferred alternative for each corridor. Please see the attached alternative evaluation
showing the information that was used to evaluate the various alternatives.
Study session meeting of January 9, 2023 (Item No. 2) Page 5
Title: 2023 Cedar Lake Road (4023-1100) and 2024 Louisiana Avenue (4024-1100) improvement projects update
• Preferred alternative for Cedar Lake Road: Alternate No. 2 – Cycle tracks.
• Preferred alternative for Louisiana Avenue: Alternate No. 3 – Alternate routes.
The project team shared the preferred alternatives with the public in December 2022
via an online and an in-person open house. Forty-six residents attended the open
houses.
The project team shared concept layouts and typical sections, and updated the online
interactive map. Please see the attached report summarizing the feedback during this
phase of engagement.
Preferred alternative: Cedar Lake Road
Alternate No. 2 – Cycle tracks, is the preferred alternative for Cedar Lake Road. This was
selected as the preferred alternative by staff for the following reasons:
• Least amount of tree impacts.
• Moderate impacts to private property.
• There is not a parallel route that provides a bikeway connection to destinations along
the corridor.
• Highest public support.
• Provides a similar type of bike facility to what was recently constructed along Cedar
Lake Road east of Kentucky Avenue.
See attachment #3 for a more detailed evaluation of the alternatives.
Preferred alternative: Louisiana Avenue
Alternate No. 3 – Alternative routes, is the preferred alternative for Louisiana Avenue. This was
selected as the preferred alternative by staff for the following reasons:
• Least amount of tree impacts.
• Lowest project cost.
• Least number of permanent easements needed from private property.
• There are viable alternative bikeway routes available that maximize current and future
construction:
o The Louisiana Avenue bridge over I -394 is a barrier for bicyclists. The bridge does
not have a dedicated bikeway, and bicyclists need to ride in traffic, not meeting the
needs of all ages and abilities users. This bridge is owned by MnDOT and is not
programmed for replacement or modernization. It was built in 1991, and likely won’t
be replaced for 50+ years.
o The alternate routes connect users to existing dedicated bicycle/ pedestrian bridges
over I-394, near Hampshire Avenue and Pennsylvania Avenue. Providing an all ages
and abilities crossing of I-394. In addition, the bikeway network in Golden Valley also
connects to these bridges, resulting in a network between communities.
o Due to the low volume of traffic on the alternate routes, the proposed bikeway type
is a share-the-road facility. This does not require parking restrictions. This will meet
the needs of all ages and abilities users.
See attachment #3 for a more detailed evaluation of the alternatives.
Study session meeting of January 9, 2023 (Item No. 2) Page 6
Title: 2023 Cedar Lake Road (4023-1100) and 2024 Louisiana Avenue (4024-1100) improvement projects update
Additional investigation: Traffic signals
There are two traffic signals on Cedar Lake Road that require additional study prior to the
project team making a recommendation. These are located at Texas Avenue and at Nevada
Avenue. There will be additional public engagement prior to bringing a recommendation for
these intersections back to council.
An initial review of the intersections indicates that they do not meet the minimum criteria for
signalization. When an intersection does not meet these criteria, it is not eligible for state or
federal money for reconstruction.
The following items need to be replaced at these locations, necessitating a full reconstruction:
• Cabinets
• Heads
• Controllers
• Pedestrian indicators
• Wiring
• Vehicle detection
Prior to bringing this project back to council for final approval, the project team will be looking
into the history and traffic patterns at these locations. This will assist us in making a
recommendation on if the signals stay in place and in understanding how their replacement
would impact costs.
Additional investigation: Watermain pipe assessment
The city is working on a pilot project to assess pipe wall thickness on the watermain in both
roadway corridors. The existing 12-inch watermain in these corridors was installed in 1952.
While there is no history of breaks, it makes financial sense to investigate pipe condition, and
make needed repairs as a part of these construction projects.
If there are segments of pipe to replace, they will be brought to council as a part of the final
plan approval.
Next steps
The proposed schedule is as follows:
Public hearing Jan. 17, 2023
City Council preferred alternative approval Feb. 6, 2023
Final plan development Fall 2023
Final plan public engagement Fall 2023
City council approves final plans Winter 2023
Private utility relocations begin on Cedar Lake Road Spring 2024
Road reconstruction: Cedar Lake Road 2024
Private utility relocation begins on Louisiana Avenue Fall 2024
Road reconstruction: Louisiana Avenue and Roundabout
at Cedar Lake Road
2025
X
X XX
XXX
X
X
X X X X X X
X X X
X X
X
X
X
XXX
X X X X
X X X X X XX
X X
X X X
X
XXX
X
X X X X X X X X
X
X
X
XX
X X
X X X
X
XXX
X
XX
X X X X X X X X
X X X X X
NORT
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H
NO
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Study session meeting of January 9, 2023 (Item No. 2)
Title: 2023 Cedar Lake Road (4023-1100) and 2024 Louisiana Avenue (4024-1100) improvement projects
update Page 7
X XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXNORTHNORTHNORTH
Study session meeting of January 9, 2023 (Item No. 2)
Title: 2023 Cedar Lake Road (4023-1100) and 2024 Louisiana Avenue (4024-1100) improvement projects
update Page 8
Category Evaluation item Alternative 1 Alternative 2 Alternative 3 Alternative 1 Alternative 2 Alternative 3
Description Multi use trail Cycle tracks Buffered bike lanes Multi use trail Cycle tracks Alternative route
Bike facility Multi use trail
(both sides)
Cycle tracks
(both sides)
Bike lanes with 3' buffer
(both sides)
Multi use trail
(both sides)
Cycle tracks
(both sides)
On-street bike blvd
provided on parallel
streets
Pedestrian facility Multi use trail
(both sides)
Sidewalk
(both sides)
Sidewalk
(both sides)
Multi use trail
(both sides)
Sidewalk
(both sides)
Sidewalk
(both sides)
Number of trees removed 149 60 62 70 38 15
Proposed impervious vs existing impervious 95%102%99%107%101%97%
Number of driveways impacted (Ability to park car
without blocking pedestrian facility)1 4 5 0 0 0
Changes to on-street parking All parking removed All parking removed All parking removed All parking removed All parking removed All parking removed
Number of properties that require right of way
acquisition (Permanent easement only)20 46 48 25 31 22
Number of fence impacts 5 10 12 3 4 2
Number of landscaping impacts 8 24 22 7 15 6
Major street changes Remove center
turn lane
Remove center
turn lane
Remove center
turn lane No changes No changes No changes
Required retaining walls Lowest Medium Highest Medium Highest Lowest
Traffic calming Narrowing road Narrowing road No change Narrowing road Narrowing road Narrowing road
Sidewalk changes Negative Neutral Neutral Negative Neutral Neutral
Social capital Public input (Public support percentage)25%58%17%20%50%30%
Estimated project cost $9,600,000 $10,500,000 $8,900,000 $10,200,000 $10,700,000 $9,900,000
Anticipated operation and maintenance cost Lowest Highest Medium Medium Highest Lowest
Destinations
connected Number of community destinations on the route See exhibit #3 attached
Population served Number of residents within 0.5 miles of bikeway &
0.25 miles of sidewalk connection?8075 8075 8075 7125 7125 7901
Users served
Barriers overcome Does this facility eliminate a barrier?No No No No No Yes
(I-394 crossing)
Safety Does this facility improve safety?Yes Yes Neutral Yes Yes Yes
See exhibit #4 attached See exhibit #4 attached
See exhibit #1 attached See exhibit #2 attached
Financial
Cedar Lake Road Louisiana Avenue
Physical impacts -
environmental
Physical impacts -
private
Physical impacts -
public
Alternative evaluation
Study session meeting of January 9, 2023 (Item No. 2)
Title: 2023 Cedar Lake Road (4023-1100) and 2024 Louisiana Avenue (4024-1100) improvement projects
update Page 9
RainbowRainbow
ParkPark
WillowWillow
ParkPark
AinsworthAinsworth
ParkPark
NorthsideNorthside
ParkPark
CedarCedar
Knoll ParkKnoll Park
Oregon ParkOregon Park
CarrollCarroll
HurdHurd
ParkPark
KENTUCKY AVE SRHODE ISLAND AVE SWES
T
WOODHILLSDR
29TH ST W
PENNSYLVANIA AVE S28TH ST W
OREGON AVE SNEVADA AVE S27TH ST W
MARYLAND AVE SLOUISIANA AVE SCEDAR LAKE
R
D TEXAS AVE SVIRGINIA AVE SCLUB RD
24TH
LN WFLAG AVE SUTAH AVE SGETTYSBURGAVES
ZINRAN AVE SM I N N E T O N K A B LV D
BOONE AVE SSERVICE DR HWY169 EBURD PL31ST ST WQU
E
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SUMTER AVE SENSIGNAVES26TH ST W
30 1/2 ST W 24TH ST W
HIGHWAY 169A
QU
IL
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A
V
ESQUEBE
C
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DECATUR AVE SLOUI SI ANA CT
Y U KONAVESWYOMINGAVES23RD ST W
22ND LN W
T E X A TONKAAVEVICTORI A CIR
CAV
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L
L
A
V
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S
HILLSBOROAVESINDEPENDENCEAVESV IC T O R IA CURV
22ND ST W
25TH ST WWESTWOODHILLS CURVOREGONCTJORDANAVESSTANLEN RD
XYLONAVESVICTORIA
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Y
VIRGINIA CIR S
VIRGINIA CIR N
CCEEDDAA
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VVIICCTTOORRIIAALLAAKKEECCOOBBBBLLEE
CCRREESSTTLLAAKKEE WWEESSTTLLIINN GG
PPOONN DDLegend
Bikeway
Existing bikeway
Future bikeway
Existing trail
METRO bus stop
Faith center
School
Park
Municipal boundary
Exhibit 1 -Cedar Lake Rd: destinations connected
M I N N E T O N K AM I N N E T O N K A
Westwood Lutheran Westwood Lutheran
Church and SchoolChurch and School
Park Spanish Immersion Park Spanish Immersion
Elementary SchoolElementary School
Minneapolis Golf Club
PeacePeace
PresbyterianPresbyterian
ChurchChurch
Study session meeting of January 9, 2023 (Item No. 2)
Title: 2023 Cedar Lake Road (4023-1100) and 2024 Louisiana Avenue (4024-1100) improvement projects
update Page 10
PennsylvaniaPennsylvania
ParkPark
Jersey ParkJersey Park
NorthsideNorthside
ParkPark
LamplighterLamplighter
ParkPark
Westwood HillsWestwood Hills
Nature CenterNature Center
CarrollCarroll
HurdHurd
ParkPark LOUISIANA AVE SCEDAR LAKE RDUTAHAVESIDAHOAVESR
H
O
DEI
SLANDAVESTEXAS
CIR
ELIOT VIEW RD
24TH ST WPENNSYLVANIA AVE SFRANKLIN
A
V
E
W UTAHDRKENTUCKYAVESWESTWOOD
HILLSDR
K
ENTUCKY LNQUE
B
E
C
A
V
E
S
14TH ST W
TEXASAVES16T
H
S
T
W22ND ST W
18TH ST W
S ERVICE
D
R
HWY394 S
HAMPSHIREAVESFLORIDAAVESGEORGIAAVES2 3 R D S T W JERSEY AVE SVIR
GI
NI
A
A
V
E
S
QUEBEC
DR MARYLAND AVE SNEVADA AVE SOREGON AVE SWEST W OODH I LLSRD13TH LN W
13 1/2 ST W
WAYZATABLVD
SUMTERAVESOREGONCTWESTWOODHILLS C VWESTMORELANDLN
VIRGINIA CIR N
INTERSTATE 394
Legend
Bikeway
Complete by 2025 and existing bikeways
Future bikeway
Existing trail
Existing bike/pedestrian brid
U
Rge METRO
bus stop
Commercial
School
Park
Municipal boundary
Exhibit 2 - Louisiana Ave. alignment: destinations connected
Louisiana Louisiana
Transit CenterTransit Center
St. Louis ParkSt. Louis Park
Middle SchoolMiddle School
G O L D E N V A L L E Y
G O L D E N V A L L E Y
Study session meeting of January 9, 2023 (Item No. 2)
Title: 2023 Cedar Lake Road (4023-1100) and 2024 Louisiana Avenue (4024-1100) improvement projects
update Page 11
PennsylvaniaPennsylvania
ParkPark
Jersey ParkJersey Park
NorthsideNorthside
ParkPark
LamplighterLamplighter
ParkPark
Westwood HillsWestwood Hills
Nature CenterNature Center
CarrollCarroll
HurdHurd
ParkPark CEDAR LAKE RDLOUISIANA AVE SUTAHAVESIDAHOAVESR
H
O
DEI
SLANDAVESTEXAS
CIR
PENNSYLVANIA AVE S24TH ST W
FRANKLIN
A
V
E
W UTAHDRKENTUCKYAVESWESTWOOD
HILLSDR
K
ENTUCKY LNQU
E
B
E
C
A
V
E
S
14TH ST W
TEXASAVES16TH ST W
22ND ST W
18TH ST W
SERVICE DR HWY 394 S
EDGEWOOD AVE SHAMPSHIREAVESDAKOTAAVESELIOT VIE
W R
D
FLORIDAAVESGEORGIAAVES2 3 R D S T W JERSEY AVE SVI
R
GI
NIA
A
V
E
S
QUEBEC
DR MARYLAND AVE SNEVADA AVE SOREGON AVE SWES TWOODH IL L SRD13TH LN W
13 1/2 ST W
WAY TA
SUMTERAVESOREGONCTWESTWOODHILLS CURVVIRGINIA CIR N
INTERSTATE 394
Legend
Louisiana Ave. bikeway alternate routes
Complete by 2025 and existing bikeways
Future bikeway
Existing trail
Existing bike/pedestrian bridge
METRO bus stop
Commercial
Faith Center
School
Park
Municipal boundary
G O L D E N V A L L E Y
G O L D E N V A L L E Y
Louisiana Louisiana
Transit CenterTransit Center
St. Louis ParkSt. Louis Park
Middle SchoolMiddle School
ParkPark
HarborHarbor
ChurchChurch
Exhibit 3 - Louisiana Ave. alternate alignment: destinations connected
Study session meeting of January 9, 2023 (Item No. 2)
Title: 2023 Cedar Lake Road (4023-1100) and 2024 Louisiana Avenue (4024-1100) improvement projects
update Page 12
Exhibit 4: Users served
The Connect the Park and alternate alignment bikeway routes serve the following populations. The table
includes residents within St. Louis Park. An alternate alignment was not considered for Cedar Lake Road
since there is not a parallel route that provides an equivalent bikeway connection to destinations in the
area.
Population
(within 0.5 mile of bikeway)
Cedar Lake Rd
Connect the
Park
alignment
Louisiana Ave
Connect the
Park
alignment
Louisiana Ave
alternate
alignments
Total number of residents 8075 7125 7901
Age
Under 5 years 7% 7% 6%
5 - 19 years 12% 13% 15%
20 - 64 years 67% 66% 60%
65 and up 8% 8% 10%
Race
White 74% 74% 78%
People of culture 26% 26% 22%
Gender
Male 49% 49% 49%
Female 51% 51% 51%
Study session meeting of January 9, 2023 (Item No. 2)
Title: 2023 Cedar Lake Road (4023-1100) and 2024 Louisiana Avenue (4024-1100) improvement projects
update Page 13
CedarCedar
Knoll ParkKnoll Park
PennsylvaniaPennsylvania
ParkPark
Jersey ParkJersey Park
NorthsideNorthside
ParkPark
LamplighterLamplighter
ParkPark
Westwood HillsWestwood Hills
Nature CenterNature Center
CarrollCarroll
HurdHurd
ParkPark
SERVICE DR HWY 394 S
CED ARLAK E R D
LOUISIANA AVE SUTAHAVESIDAHOAVESTEXAS
CIR
PENNSYLVANIA AVE SFRANKLIN
A
V
E
W UTAHDRKENTUCKYAVESWESTWOOD
HILLSDR
K
ENTUCKY LN
RHO
D
E
I
S
L
ANDAVESQ
U
E
B
E
C
A
V
E
S
14TH ST W
TEXASAVES16TH ST W
22ND ST W
18TH ST W
24TH ST W EDGEWOOD AVE SHAMPSHIREAVESELIOT VIE
W R
D
FLORIDAAVESGEORGIAAVES2 3 R D S T W JERSEY AVE SVI
R
GI
NI
A
A
V
E
S
QUEBE
C
DR MARYLAND AVE SNEVADA AVE SWAYZA
T
A
BLVD
OREGON AVE SDAKOTA AVE SW EST W OODHI LLSRD13TH LN W
13 1/2 ST W
SUMTERAVESOREGONCTWESTWOODHILLS CURVVIRGINIA CIR N
INTERSTATE 394
Legend
METRO bus stop
METRO bus route 9
METRO bus route 675
METRO bus route 673
METRO bus route 705
Commercial
Faith Center
School
Park
Municipal boundary
Exhibit 5 - Louisiana area bus routes
Louisiana Louisiana
Transit CenterTransit Center
St. Louis ParkSt. Louis Park
Middle SchoolMiddle School
ParkPark
HarborHarbor
ChurchChurch
G O L D E N V A L L E Y
G O L D E N V A L L E Y
Study session meeting of January 9, 2023 (Item No. 2)
Title: 2023 Cedar Lake Road (4023-1100) and 2024 Louisiana Avenue (4024-1100) improvement projects
update Page 14
St. Louis Park Engineering Department • 5005 Minnetonka Blvd., St. Louis Park, MN 55416
www.stlouispark.org • Phone: 952.924.2656 • Fax: 952.924.2662 • TTY: 952.924.2518
Cedar Lake Road and Louisiana Avenue Improvements
Round 1 Engagement Summary
July 20, 2022
Engagement Strategies and Approach
Three rounds of engagement are planned for the Cedar Lake Road and Louisiana Avenue Improvements
project. The city of St. Louis Park has completed the first round of engagement for the project. In this
round, the city introduced the project, shared existing conditions information, and asked the public
about their experiences using Cedar Lake Road and Louisiana Avenue and their visions for these
corridors.
Round 1 Round 2 Round 3
Timing Spring/Summer 2022 Fall 2022 Winter 2022
Focus Project introduction
and understanding
Present design
concepts and tradeoffs,
design data, and
information about data
collection process
Presentation of
recommended layouts
Input goals Challenges and
opportunities of using
the corridor today
Prioritization of what
elements are
important for the
future
Gauging how well
design concepts help
fulfill goals of the
community and the city
Potential impacts of
design concepts
Final feedback
documented for layout
presentation to city
council
Informs this project
action/next steps
Develop design
concepts
Initial layout for each
corridor
Recommended layouts
presented for city
council approval
This document summarizes the feedback received during the first round of engagement, including a
summary of responses from the online survey, interactive feedback map, virtual open houses, and
general comments.
To-date, project staff have engaged with the public about the project through the following:
• Virtual open houses
• February 23, 2022; 2 p.m.
• 25 attendees
• February 24, 2022; 6 p.m.
• 10 attendees
• Recordings of virtual open house meetings
• Virtual open house website
• Click-through slides featuring project
information and resources
• Online survey
• 126 responses
• Interactive feedback map
• 419 comments
• Project introduction letters
• ~ 500 mailed
• Email blasts to project distribution list
• Posts on the city’s social media outlets
• General phone/email comments
• 7 comments
Study session meeting of January 9, 2023 (Item No. 2)
Title: 2023 Cedar Lake Road (4023-1100) and 2024 Louisiana Avenue (4024-1100) improvement projects
update Page 15
St. Louis Park Engineering Department • 5005 Minnetonka Blvd., St. Louis Park, MN 55416
www.stlouispark.org • Phone: 952.924.2656 • Fax: 952.924.2662 • TTY: 952.924.2518
Common Themes
Below are common themes that emerged from the feedback received during round 1 engagement.
Round 1 – Project introduction and understanding
• Need for pedestrian safety improvements and traffic calming on both corridors – often motorists
travel too fast, don’t stop for pedestrians in the crosswalk; no sidewalk exists in some places
• Pick-up/drop-off at Park Spanish Immersion causes traffic back ups down Cedar Lake Rd; need for
better/safer traffic movements through this area
• Issues with business access at Cedar Lake Rd/Louisiana Ave intersection (e.g., Walgreens parking lot)
due to restricted turn movements
• Bicycling on these corridors doesn’t feel safe; lack of separation between motorists and cyclists;
need for bicycle infrastructure and safety improvements
• Need for improved traffic signal timing at Cedar Lake Rd/Louisiana Ave intersection and Louisiana
Ave/Franklin Ave intersection
• Traffic calming needed at Cedar Lake Rd/Virginia Ave intersection; feels dangerous for all modes,
particularly bicyclists and pedestrians
Online Survey
As of July 20, 2022, we received 126 online survey responses. Results of the surveys are displayed
below. A list of common themes and responses received were summarized for open ended questions.
Cedar Lake Road
What is/are your purpose(s) for using this stretch of Cedar Lake Road? Select all that apply.
Other (please specify):
• To get to schools (e.g., Park Spanish Immersion, the Middle School)
• Daily commute to work
• For recreation – walk/bike the corridor
5%
61%
46%
0%1%
73%
0%
15%
I live on
Cedar Lake
Road
I live within a
few blocks of
Cedar Lake
Road
I
shop/receive
services there
I
own/operate
a business on
Cedar Lake
Road
I work there I use it to get
somewhere
else
I don’t use
Cedar Lake
Road
Other (please
specify)
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
70%
80%
Study session meeting of January 9, 2023 (Item No. 2)
Title: 2023 Cedar Lake Road (4023-1100) and 2024 Louisiana Avenue (4024-1100) improvement projects
update Page 16
Page 3
How do you travel along this stretch of Cedar Lake Road? Select all that apply.
What barriers, if any, do you experience to using this stretch of Cedar Lake Road?
• Motorists travel too fast
• Lack of pedestrian safety
o Motorists don’t stop for pedestrians crossing
o Lack of sidewalk on the south side of Cedar Lake Rd; walking on the shoulder on the
south side is dangerous
o Few designated crosswalks/difficulty crossing where there isn’t a traffic signal, especially
with young children
o Narrow sidewalks in 4-lane section near Louisiana Ave
o Streets are wide to cross
o Existing pedestrian environment discourages from choosing to walk to run errands/pick
up food at Cedar Lake Rd/Louisiana Ave intersection; choose to drive instead
• Poor bicycle infrastructure
o Bicycle path is narrow and has potholes; don’t feel comfortable biking with family
o Lack of a bike lane west of Louisiana Ave is a pain
o Inconsistent separation from cars for bicycling; need for dedicated protected bike lanes
to foster more use
o Lack of bike lane as you get closer to Hwy 169(e.g., Texas to Virginia)
• Traffic back-ups/delays
o At Park Spanish Immersion during pick up/drop off and concern about how this will be
affected during construction
• Hard to access this stretch from Louisiana Avenue (south of Minnetonka Blvd) any other way
than by car
• Virginia Ave S/Cedar Lake Rd intersection is dicey when turning for all users
• Long traffic signal times at Cedar Lake Road/Louisiana intersection
• Issues turning in out/out of Walgreens and hardware store parking lots
48%
1%
53%
7%5%
99%
2%
Walk/run Use a
wheelchair,
walker, or
other mobility
device
Bike Roll (e.g.,
skateboard,
rollerblade,
scooter)
Take transit Drive Other (please
specify)
0%
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
120%
Study session meeting of January 9, 2023 (Item No. 2)
Title: 2023 Cedar Lake Road (4023-1100) and 2024 Louisiana Avenue (4024-1100) improvement projects
update Page 17
Page 4
Louisiana Avenue
What is/are your purpose(s) for using this stretch of Louisiana Avenue? Select all that apply.
Other (please specify):
• Commute to work
• To get to schools, shops, parks/recreation areas
• For recreation
How do you travel along this stretch of Louisiana Avenue? Select all that apply.
7%
52%52%
0%0%
78%
0%
6%
I live on
Louisiana
Avenue
I live within a
few blocks of
Louisiana
Avenue
I
shop/receive
services there
I
own/operate
a business on
Louisiana
Avenue
I work there I use it to get
somewhere
else
I don’t use
Louisiana
Avenue
Other (please
specify)
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
70%
80%
90%
45%
1%
35%
2%4%
98%
2%
Walk/run Use a
wheelchair,
walker, or
other mobility
device
Bike Roll (e.g.,
skateboard,
rollerblade,
scooter)
Take transit Drive Other (please
specify)
0%
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
120%
Study session meeting of January 9, 2023 (Item No. 2)
Title: 2023 Cedar Lake Road (4023-1100) and 2024 Louisiana Avenue (4024-1100) improvement projects
update Page 18
Page 5
What barriers, if any, do you experience to using this stretch of Louisiana Avenue?
• Lack of pedestrian safety
o Difficult to cross the street
o Unpleasant to be on the Louisiana Ave sidewalk south of Cedar Lake Rd; lack of
division/space between pedestrians and vehicle traffic
o Bridge over the railroad has very narrow sidewalks; feels like a highway
• Motorists speed
• Bicycling on Louisiana Ave (particularly at Cedar Lake intersection) doesn’t feel safe
o There’s no room for bicyclists
o Roadway is designed as a “stroad” encouraging motorists to drive faster than posted
speed
o Lack of bike lanes/clear divisions between bicyclists and moving traffic
o It’s unpleasant to bike on Louisiana Ave bridge over the railroad; need for protected
bike lanes here
• Don’t want more bike lanes; few people use the existing bike lanes
• Feel that northbound right lane should be turn only to prevent forced merge when shifting from
two to one lane; drivers race to beat light and then cut vehicles off north of Minnetonka where
it merges
• Traffic signal timing:
o Traffic signal at Louisiana Ave/Franklin Ave halts major north/south traffic for cars
simply turning right to go southbound on Louisiana Ave
o Traffic signal at Louisiana Ave/Cedar Lake is very busy and takes a long time; many back-
ups/delays at this intersection
• Need for left turn lanes
• Business access:
o Difficult to enter/exit Walgreens parking lot
o Difficult to turn left from Pizza Hut shopping center
o Too many restrictions accessing side streets (can only go northbound when leaving
library)
How close do you live to the project area?
41%
26%
32%
1%0%
Within a block or two Further than two
blocks but within six
blocks
Further than six blocks Not sure Prefer not to say
0%
5%
10%
15%
20%
25%
30%
35%
40%
45%
Study session meeting of January 9, 2023 (Item No. 2)
Title: 2023 Cedar Lake Road (4023-1100) and 2024 Louisiana Avenue (4024-1100) improvement projects
update Page 19
Page 6
Which race and ethnic group(s) do you identify with? Select all that apply.
To which gender do you most identify?
0%0%
85%
2%0%1%
11%
3%
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
70%
80%
90%
50%
43%
0%0%
6%
1%
Female Male Non-binary Transgender Prefer not to say A gender not
listed (please
specify):
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
Study session meeting of January 9, 2023 (Item No. 2)
Title: 2023 Cedar Lake Road (4023-1100) and 2024 Louisiana Avenue (4024-1100) improvement projects
update Page 20
Page 7
Which category below include your age?
What is your annual household income?
0%0%
14%
32%
20%
29%
5%
Under 18 18-24 25-34 35-44 45-54 55 or older Prefer not to
say
0%
5%
10%
15%
20%
25%
30%
35%
0%
6%6%
11%
58%
19%
Less than $25,000 $25,000 to
$49,999
$50,000 to
$74,999
$75,000 to
$99,999
$100,000 or more Prefer not to say
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
70%
Study session meeting of January 9, 2023 (Item No. 2)
Title: 2023 Cedar Lake Road (4023-1100) and 2024 Louisiana Avenue (4024-1100) improvement projects
update Page 21
Page 8
How many cars does your household have?
When was the last time you participated in a community engagement process with the City of St.
Louis Park?
1%
22%
68%
6%
3%
0 1 2 3 4 or more
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
70%
80%
6%
35%
32%
1%
25%
Always Within the last year Within the last 5
years
Within the last 10
years
Longer than 10 years
ago
0%
5%
10%
15%
20%
25%
30%
35%
40%
Study session meeting of January 9, 2023 (Item No. 2)
Title: 2023 Cedar Lake Road (4023-1100) and 2024 Louisiana Avenue (4024-1100) improvement projects
update Page 22
Page 9
Interactive Feedback Map
As of July 20, 2022, the interactive feedback map had 419 comments. Users could select a pin and drop
it in a location on the project corridors where they wanted to provide feedback. Pin categories included:
• Bicycle Safety/Access
• Pedestrian Safety/Access
• Transit Service or Amenity
• Vehicle Safety/Access
Map feedback are summarized by comment pin category.
Bicycle Safety/Access
• Need to expand Cedar Lake Road project to extend west of Hwy 169; approach to and bridge
over Hwy 169 is very dangerous for bicyclists; very little room for bicyclists and must share
narrow lanes with cars
• Bike lanes on Cedar Lake Road are too narrow
o Need bike lanes on both sides of the road; reduce width of roads to slow cars and create
space for bike lanes
o Lanes need to be widened, physically separated from cars (e.g., curb protection, bollards
at busy intersections), maintained year-round, and safe for school children biking to
Park Spanish Immersion
o Don’t put manhole covers in the bike lanes or make them flush with the road surface;
manhole covers that aren’t flush with the surface force bicyclists out into the traffic
lanes to avoid hitting them
• Consider adding bike parking near Westwood Lutheran Church
• Ensure ease of access by bike to businesses near Cedar Lake Rd/Louisiana Ave intersection
• Ensure ease of access to Northside Park from bike lane on Louisiana Ave, not just for bikes but
also strollers/anything on wheels
• Would like bike lanes on Louisiana Ave to be protected from vehicle traffic, especially between
Cedar Lake Rd and Franklin
• Cedar Lake Rd from Texas to Virginia is a key bike route for bicyclists traveling to/from Cedar
Lake Trail; this stretch, and the Cedar Lake Rd/Virginia Ave intersection in particular, is
dangerous for pedestrians and bicyclists and needs improvements
• The Cedar Lake Rd/Texas Ave intersection needs better/safer infrastructure to support cyclists
turning from Cedar Lake Rd to Texas Ave
• The intersection of Cedar Lake Rd/Quebec Ave needs bike lane/crossing support for cyclists
coming from the north side onto Cedar Lake Rd in both directions; route used to travel between
North Cedar Lake Trail, Lamplighter Pond, Golden Valley
• Mixed feedback about whether bike infrastructure improvements/use they will get justify the
cost
• (outside scope of project): Would like a bike lane that connects Cedar Lake Rd to Franklin Ave
path (e.g., crossing Cedar Lake Rd from Franklin to get to Edgewood)
• (outside scope of project): Franklin Ave path is too steep and narrow; consider separating bikes
and pedestrians
• (outside scope of project): Need for easier bike/pedestrian access from Louisiana Ave bridge to
Cedar Lake LRT Trail; Louisiana Ave bridge doesn’t need to have four travel lanes; dedicate space
Study session meeting of January 9, 2023 (Item No. 2)
Title: 2023 Cedar Lake Road (4023-1100) and 2024 Louisiana Avenue (4024-1100) improvement projects
update Page 23
Page 10
to pedestrians and bicyclists; currently bridge feels too narrow unsafe for pedestrians and
bicyclists
Pedestrian Safety/Access
• Supportive of adding sidewalk on south side of Cedar Lake Rd
• Supportive of adding sidewalk on east side of Louisiana Ave
• Need for traffic calming and pedestrian improvements (e.g., marked protected crossings) on
Louisiana Ave at 22nd St, Franklin Ave, 18th St, 16th St, 14th St, south of 23rd
o At Franklin Ave, motorists run red lights or often stop on top of the crosswalks
o Cars often don’t stop for pedestrians in the crosswalks
o At 22nd St, need a marked/protected pedestrian crossing; very difficult to cross with a
stroller
o South of 23rd sidewalk is too narrow, steep, and unprotected from traffic
• Need for traffic calming and pedestrian improvements (e.g., protected crossings) on Cedar Lake
Rd at Virginia Ave, Zinran Ave S, Quebec Ave S, Louisiana Ave, near Park Spanish Immersion
o At Virginia Ave, cars often do not stop; if they do, following cars often speed around
o At Park Spanish Immersion, heavy traffic and high speeds; disregard for pedestrians in
crosswalk
o Need for protected pedestrian crossing west of Cedar Lake Rd/Louisiana Ave
intersection to connect residents on both sides of Cedar Lake Rd to the Walgreens and
Westwood Liquors strip mall
• Excessive wait times for pedestrians crossing at the Cedar Lake Rd/Louisiana Ave intersection
• Ensure pedestrians have safe/easy access to businesses at Cedar Lake Rd/Louisiana Ave
intersection
Transit Service or Amenity
• Intersections of Franklin Ave/Louisiana Ave and Virginia Ave/Cedar Lake Rd are congested and
busy; feel that transit stops should be shifted away from the intersection
• Need for bus stop improvements at bus stop at Cedar Lake Rd/Louisiana Ave intersection and at
stops along Cedar Lake Road (e.g., shelter, transit information, better pedestrian access)
• Need for better crossings or bus stop consolidation on Louisiana Ave/22nd St intersection;
difficult to cross the street during rush hour
Vehicle Safety/Access
• Park Spanish Immersion
o Need better solution for school pick-up/drop off times; causes back ups down Cedar
Lake Rd; cars pass in turn lane to get on Hwy 169
o Need for reduced speed during pick-up/drop off times
o Need a wide shoulder with no parking during school hours to avoid having waiting cars
block traffic
o At traffic signal on W 28th St, entrance/exit signaling is unclear
• Turn lane on Cedar Lake Rd at Flag Ave S is necessary; mixed feedback about whether on-street
parking is needed here
• Too much speeding and high traffic volumes; need for traffic calming at:
o Cedar Lake Rd/Virginia Ave – difficult to turn from Virginia onto Cedar Lake Rd; need
better traffic control here; high volumes of pedestrians and bicyclists, consider
roundabout here
Study session meeting of January 9, 2023 (Item No. 2)
Title: 2023 Cedar Lake Road (4023-1100) and 2024 Louisiana Avenue (4024-1100) improvement projects
update Page 24
Page 11
o Cedar Lake Rd/Texas Ave – too many rolling stops, consider roundabout here
• On Cedar Lake Rd near Walgreens and strip mall with Westwood Liquors
o There are too many curb cuts
o Need for a left turn lane into the strip mall and apartments/Walgreens; two travel lanes
aren’t needed until closer to the Cedar Lake Rd/Louisiana Ave intersection
o Walgreens parking lot is difficult to get in/out of since you can only go south on
Louisiana Ave or west on Cedar Lake Rd; many people make illegal turns
• Need for right turn only lane from Louisiana Ave onto Cedar Lake Rd
• Mixed feedback about putting a roundabout in at Cedar Lake Rd and Louisiana Ave
o Supportive of roundabout because there’s too much idling at red lights; a roundabout
calms traffic speeds but keeps traffic flowing
o Unsupportive of roundabout because this intersection is too busy and many drivers
don’t understand roundabouts
• Consider eliminating/moving the Louisiana Ave entrances for the Westwood Liquors and Family
dollar parking lots
• Traffic signals across the city need to be retimed (e.g., signal at Cedar Lake Rd/Louisiana Ave has
too long of wait times, increasing emissions)
• The southbound merge on Louisiana Ave south of 23rd St causes issues; feel that southbound
should be a single lane until left turn lane is called for; make more space for bikes and
pedestrians
• New development at Texas Ave/Minnetonka Blvd may cause additional northbound through
traffic through Texas Ave/Virginia Ave
• Need for traffic calming and infrastructure/prioritized signals for pedestrians and cyclists at
Franklin Ave/Louisiana Ave intersection
• Mixed feedback about whether the traffic signal at Franklin Ave/Louisiana Ave intersection is
too sensitive to traffic coming from Franklin Ave and needs to be retimed
• Issues with motorists passing on the right to get around left turning vehicles on Louisiana Ave
near W 18th St
• Need to add turn lanes on Louisiana Ave at 16th/18th Streets
• (outside scope of project): At Louisiana Ave/31st, driver ignore the left-turn preventing medians
and make left turns on to/off of Louisiana Ave anyway; medians make neighborhood access
difficult
General Phone/Email Comments
As of July 20, we received 1 phone call and 6 comments via email. They are summarized below.
• Concern about project’s impacts to the entrance and exit at Park Spanish Immersion
o There are already traffic issues during school drop-off/pick-up times
o What measures will the city take to ensure this isn’t more of a challenge during
construction/after improvements have been made?
• There is no safe way to walk to Park Spanish Immersion
o No sidewalk on south side of Cedar Lake Road
o Traffic does not stop for pedestrians crossing
• On street parking near west end of Cedar Lake Rd:
o Would like to keep parking and turn lane
o Would like to move parking to the north side of the road
• Would like to convert Louisiana Ave to a four lane roadway, two lanes in each direction
Study session meeting of January 9, 2023 (Item No. 2)
Title: 2023 Cedar Lake Road (4023-1100) and 2024 Louisiana Avenue (4024-1100) improvement projects
update Page 25
Page 12
• Would like a fence added back to property on Louisiana Ave; city asked property owner to
remove at one time due to fence blocking sight lines
• Concern about impacts to trees if sidewalk is added on south side of Cedar Lake Rd, particularly
between Willow Park and Virginia
• Many people make illegal turns going in/out of the Walgreens and Jerrys lot; medians make it
difficult to turn into either lot causing safety issues
Study session meeting of January 9, 2023 (Item No. 2)
Title: 2023 Cedar Lake Road (4023-1100) and 2024 Louisiana Avenue (4024-1100) improvement projects
update Page 26
St. Louis Park Engineering Department • 5005 Minnetonka Blvd., St. Louis Park, MN 55416
www.stlouispark.org • Phone: 952.924.2656 • Fax: 952.924.2662 • TTY: 952.924.2518
Cedar Lake Road and Louisiana Avenue Improvements
Round 2 Engagement Summary
November 20, 2022
Engagement Strategies and Approach
Three rounds of engagement are planned for the Cedar Lake Road and Louisiana Avenue Improvements
project. The city of St. Louis Park has completed the second round of engagement for the project. In this
round, the city shared three initial design alternatives for Cedar Lake Road and Louisiana Avenue and
asked the public for their feedback on them. The input from this round will be used to narrow down the
options to a preferred alternative for each corridor.
Round 1 Round 2 Round 3
Timing Spring/Summer 2022 Fall 2022 Winter 2022
Focus Project introduction
and understanding
Present design
alternatives and
tradeoffs, design data,
and information about
data collection process
Presentation of
recommended layouts
Input goals Challenges and
opportunities of using
the corridor today
Prioritization of what
elements are
important for the
future
Gauging how well
design alternatives
help fulfill goals of the
community and the city
Potential impacts of
design concepts
Final feedback
documented for layout
presentation to city
council
Informs this project
action/next steps
Develop design
alternatives
Initial layout for each
corridor
Recommended layouts
presented for city
council approval
This document summarizes the feedback received during the second round of engagement from
September through November 2022. Appendix A includes a more detailed summary of responses
received from the open houses, jar preference activity, online survey, interactive feedback map, and
general comments.
To-date, project staff have engaged with the public about the project through the following:
• Virtual open houses
• February 23, 2022; 2 p.m.
• 25 attendees
• February 24, 2022; 6 p.m.
• 10 attendees
• September 21, 2022; 2 p.m.
• 19 attendees
• In-person open house
• September 15, 2022; 5 p.m.
• Approx. 50 attendees
• Pop-up events – Approximately 150 people
engaged total
• State of the Community
• May 15, 2022; 1 – 4 p.m.
• Hamilton House
• May 19, 2022; 2 – 4 p.m.
• October 27, 2022; 1 – 3 p.m.
• Bike to Work Day
Study session meeting of January 9, 2023 (Item No. 2)
Title: 2023 Cedar Lake Road (4023-1100) and 2024 Louisiana Avenue (4024-1100) improvement projects
update Page 27
Page 2
St. Louis Park Engineering Department • 5005 Minnetonka Blvd., St. Louis Park, MN 55416
www.stlouispark.org • Phone: 952.924.2656 • Fax: 952.924.2662 • TTY: 952
• May 20, 2022; 6:30 – 9 a.m.
• Ecotacular
• June 18, 2022; 2 – 6 p.m.
• Louisiana Court Apartments
• October 18, 2022; 2 p.m. – 4 p.m.
• Park Spanish Immersion Book Fair
• October 27, 2022; 4 – 6 p.m.
• Recordings of virtual open house meetings
• Virtual open house website (live spring
2022)
• Click-through slides featuring project
information and resources
• Paper/online survey
• Round 1: 126 responses
• Round 2: 44 responses
• Interactive feedback map
• Round 1: 419 comments
• Round 2: 133 comments
• Project postcards
• Round 1: ~500 mailed
• Round 2: ~760 mailed
• Email blasts to project distribution list
• Posts on the city’s social media outlets
• General phone/email comments
• Round 1: 7 comments
• Round 2: 11 comments
Common Themes
Below are common themes that emerged from the feedback received during round 2 engagement.
Round 2 – Design development and refinement
• Supportive of having a buffer between bikes/pedestrians and cars; having bicyclists in the road is too
dangerous, particularly for children going to/from school
• Need for safe, highly visible crossings for bikes and pedestrians along these corridors
• Mixed feedback about removal of traffic signal at Franklin Avenue/Louisiana Avenue intersection;
concern cars will not stop for RRFB
• Concern about amount of tree removal, particularly in Alternative 1
• Consider putting trail on one side of the roadway to minimize impacts
• Work around the nice/mature trees along the corridors
• Would like more native plantings, landscaping, permeable surfaces to be incorporated into the
chosen design to help offset tree losses
• Concerns about the Cedar Lake Road/Virginia Avenue intersection:
• Need for smooth/safe connections for pedestrians and bicyclists to/from Cedar Lake Trail at
Virginia Avenue
• Feel that a crossing is also needed on the east side of the intersection because there is no
sidewalk on the west side of Virginia Avenue
• Need for traffic calming, pavement markings, signage, etc. to enable safe traffic movements for
all modes
• Mixed feedback about the roundabout at Cedar Lake Road and Louisiana Avenue
• Concern about turns into/out of businesses at the Cedar Lake Road/Louisiana Avenue inspection
(e.g., Walgreens, strip mall with Ariana Kabob)
Alternative Preferences
Below is a summary of people’s alternative preferences based on responses from the online survey, jar
preference activity, interactive feedback map, and general comments.
Study session meeting of January 9, 2023 (Item No. 2)
Title: 2023 Cedar Lake Road (4023-1100) and 2024 Louisiana Avenue (4024-1100) improvement projects
update Page 28
Page 3
St. Louis Park Engineering Department • 5005 Minnetonka Blvd., St. Louis Park, MN 55416
www.stlouispark.org • Phone: 952.924.2656 • Fax: 952.924.2662 • TTY: 952
89 responses total
96 responses total
25%
58%
17%
0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%
Alternative 1
Multi Use Trail
Alternative 2
Cycle Tracks
Alternative 3
Buffered Bike Lane
Cedar Lake Road
20%
50%
30%
0%10%20%30%40%50%60%
Alternative 1
Multi Use Trail
Alternative 2
Cycle Tracks
Alternative 3
Alternate Route
Louisiana Avenue
Study session meeting of January 9, 2023 (Item No. 2)
Title: 2023 Cedar Lake Road (4023-1100) and 2024 Louisiana Avenue (4024-1100) improvement projects
update Page 29
Page 4
St. Louis Park Engineering Department • 5005 Minnetonka Blvd., St. Louis Park, MN 55416
www.stlouispark.org • Phone: 952.924.2656 • Fax: 952.924.2662 • TTY: 952
Appendix A. Detailed Round 2 Engagement Summary
Open Houses
The city hosted an in-person open house on
September 15, 2022 at Westwood Lutheran
Church, where attendees could view the design
alternatives, ask staff questions, and share their
feedback. The city also hosted a virtual open
house on September 21, 2022. At both
meetings, staff gave a presentation and
answered questions from the audience. Around
50 people attended the in-person meeting and
19 attended the virtual meeting. Below are
some of the common comments/questions
received:
• Concerns about Cedar Lake
Road/Virginia Avenue intersection
o Difficult for motorists to get a break in traffic to turn from Virginia Avenue onto Cedar
Lake Road
o Virginia Avenue is used by bicyclists to travel to/from Cedar Lake Trail; need for
improvements bicycle improvements
o Need for intersection safety improvements – turning radii too wide, high volumes of
people crossing
o Questions/concerns about having the crossing on the west side of the intersection – no
sidewalk on west side of Virginia Avenue today, feel people will still cross on the east
side
• Feel alternative 1 (for both Cedar Lake Road and Louisiana Ave) has too many tree removals
• Questions/concerns about the construction staging and detours
• Questions about traffic flow improvements at Park Spanish Immersion
• Concern about the removal of the traffic signal at Franklin Avenue; busy intersection; needed for
pedestrian crossing and slowing traffic
• Mixed feedback about the roundabout at Cedar Lake Road and Louisiana Avenue
• Mixed feedback about removal of the center turn lane on Cedar Lake Road near Flag Avenue
• Cedar Lake Road alternative 3:
o Need for protection for bicyclists (e.g., bollards)
o Concern cars will use/park in bike lanes
Pop-up Events
During round 2 engagement, staff held three pop-up events at Louisiana Court Apartments, Hamilton
House, and Park Spanish Immersion’s Book Fair, engaging around 65 community members total. At
these events, staff passed out flyers, walked community members through the different design
alternatives, answered their questions, and prompted them to share their feedback through the
preference jars and project survey.
Figure 1. Open house at Westwood Lutheran Church on
September 15, 2022.
Study session meeting of January 9, 2023 (Item No. 2)
Title: 2023 Cedar Lake Road (4023-1100) and 2024 Louisiana Avenue (4024-1100) improvement projects
update Page 30
Page 5
St. Louis Park Engineering Department • 5005 Minnetonka Blvd., St. Louis Park, MN 55416
www.stlouispark.org • Phone: 952.924.2656 • Fax: 952.924.2662 • TTY: 952
Jar Preference Activity
At the open house and pop-up events, attendees had the opportunity to share their preference for the
alternative they liked best by placing a ball (1 per corridor) in jars labeled for each alternative. Listed
below are the counts received per alternative at each event. Please note, no preferences were received
during the Louisiana Court Apartments pop-up.
Figure 3. Results of the jar preference activity from the in-person open house. Jars for Louisiana Avenue
alternatives (shown left) and Cedar Lake Road alternatives (shown right).
Figure 2. Hamilton House (shown left) and Park Spanish Immersion Book Fair (shown
right) pop-ups on October 27, 2022.
Study session meeting of January 9, 2023 (Item No. 2)
Title: 2023 Cedar Lake Road (4023-1100) and 2024 Louisiana Avenue (4024-1100) improvement projects
update Page 31
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St. Louis Park Engineering Department • 5005 Minnetonka Blvd., St. Louis Park, MN 55416
www.stlouispark.org • Phone: 952.924.2656 • Fax: 952.924.2662 • TTY: 952
Cedar Lake Road Louisiana Avenue
Alt 1
Multi Use
Trail
Alt 2
Cycle
Tracks
Alt 3
Buffered
Bike Lane
Alt 1
Multi Use
Trail
Alt 2
Cycle
Tracks
Alt 3
Alternate
Route
Open House 6 8 6 4 8 16
Hamilton House 0 1 1 0 1 1
Park Spanish
Immersion Book Fair 4 18 2 7 16 0
Online Survey
As of November 20, 2022, we received 44 online survey responses. Results of the survey questions are
displayed below. A list of common themes and responses received were summarized for open ended
questions.
Cedar Lake Road
Why is this your preferred option?
• It’s the safest option
• Provides bicyclists and pedestrians with separate dedicated space of the road
• Gives non-motorized users the most space
• Fewer/fewest tree removals
• Don’t like any of the options
o Why not updated the sidewalk on just the west side of Louisiana Avenue?
o Doesn’t consider church parking on Sundays, elementary school events, or rush hour
traffic
• Buffered bike lane options is unacceptable, not safe
• Costs less
• Cohesion with work on Cedar Lake Road east of Louisiana Avenue
• Prioritizes walking and biking and is less intrusive to property owners
29%
59%
12%
Alternative 1 - Multi Use Trail Alternative 2 - Cycle Tracks Alternative 3 - Buffered Bike
Lanes
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
70%
Which Cedar Lake Road alternative do you prefer the most?
Study session meeting of January 9, 2023 (Item No. 2)
Title: 2023 Cedar Lake Road (4023-1100) and 2024 Louisiana Avenue (4024-1100) improvement projects
update Page 32
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St. Louis Park Engineering Department • 5005 Minnetonka Blvd., St. Louis Park, MN 55416
www.stlouispark.org • Phone: 952.924.2656 • Fax: 952.924.2662 • TTY: 952
• Varies the least from the existing roadway footprint today
• Don’t see a need for more impervious surface; buffered bike lane seems sufficient
• The bike lanes are already pretty good
Louisiana Avenue
Why is this your preferred option?
• Safest option for everyone
• Provides bicyclists and pedestrians with separate dedicated space of the road
• Fewer tree removals
• Consistent experience for bicyclists
• Will make future connections to Golden Valley and south St. Louis Park easier
• Don’t like any of the options
o No need for sidewalk/bike path on the east side of Louisiana Avenue
• Keeps pedestrians and bicyclists safe while preserving some trees
• Keeping route on Louisiana Avenue makes it more visible, attractive, and direct to more
destinations
• Costs less
• Multi use trail prioritizes active transportation without being too intrusive to property owners
• Bike lanes aren’t needed on Louisiana Avenue
o The north-south route needs to get to the pedestrian bridges over I-394
o There doesn’t seem to be enough space for trails on Louisiana Avenue
• This option seems to have the safest option for the Franklin Avenue crossing; but skeptical of
removing the traffic signal
21%
56%
23%
Alternative 1 - Multi Use Trail Alternative 2 - Cycle Tracks Alternative 3 - Alternative
Route
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
Which Louisiana Avenue alternative do you prefer the most?
Study session meeting of January 9, 2023 (Item No. 2)
Title: 2023 Cedar Lake Road (4023-1100) and 2024 Louisiana Avenue (4024-1100) improvement projects
update Page 33
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St. Louis Park Engineering Department • 5005 Minnetonka Blvd., St. Louis Park, MN 55416
www.stlouispark.org • Phone: 952.924.2656 • Fax: 952.924.2662 • TTY: 952
Other:
• Reducing motorists’ speeds, traffic calming
• Improving mobility for modes other than driving, encouraging use of alternate modes
• Safety for all modes
• Concern roundabout will cause accidents
• Support roundabout as it will help reduce carbon emissions
• Major projects/improvements have already occurred in this area, feel the project isn’t needed
• Feel sidewalk/bike path aren’t needed on east side of Louisiana Ave.
3
4.59
5.05
3.29
3.53
2.4
Improve vehicle traffic mobility and parking
Evaluate and improve intersection safety and
operations
Improve pedestrian and bicycle access and safety
Enhance transit facilities and access
Minimize impacts to trees, greening, and
landscaping along the corridor
Other (please specify below)
0 1 2 3 4 5 6
Which of the following goals are most important to you?
Weighted Average
Study session meeting of January 9, 2023 (Item No. 2)
Title: 2023 Cedar Lake Road (4023-1100) and 2024 Louisiana Avenue (4024-1100) improvement projects
update Page 34
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St. Louis Park Engineering Department • 5005 Minnetonka Blvd., St. Louis Park, MN 55416
www.stlouispark.org • Phone: 952.924.2656 • Fax: 952.924.2662 • TTY: 952
3%
15%
70%
8%
0%0%
8%
0%
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
70%
80%
Which race and ethnic group(s) do you identify with? Select all
that apply.
59%
22%17%
2%0%
Within a block or
two
Further than two
blocks but within
six blocks
Further than six
blocks
Not sure Prefer not to say
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
70%
How close do you live to the project area?
Study session meeting of January 9, 2023 (Item No. 2)
Title: 2023 Cedar Lake Road (4023-1100) and 2024 Louisiana Avenue (4024-1100) improvement projects
update Page 35
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St. Louis Park Engineering Department • 5005 Minnetonka Blvd., St. Louis Park, MN 55416
www.stlouispark.org • Phone: 952.924.2656 • Fax: 952.924.2662 • TTY: 952
54%
44%
0%0%3%0%
Female Male Non-binary Transgender Prefer not to
say
A gender not
listed (please
specify):
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
To which gender do you most identify?
0%3%
23%
40%
3%
30%
3%
Under 18 18-24 25-34 35-44 45-54 55 or older Prefer not to
say
0%
5%
10%
15%
20%
25%
30%
35%
40%
45%
Which category below includes your age?
10%8%5%5%
51%
21%
Less than
$25,000
$25,000 to
$49,999
$50,000 to
$74,999
$75,000 to
$99,999
$100,000 or
more
Prefer not to
say
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
What is your annual household income?
Study session meeting of January 9, 2023 (Item No. 2)
Title: 2023 Cedar Lake Road (4023-1100) and 2024 Louisiana Avenue (4024-1100) improvement projects
update Page 36
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St. Louis Park Engineering Department • 5005 Minnetonka Blvd., St. Louis Park, MN 55416
www.stlouispark.org • Phone: 952.924.2656 • Fax: 952.924.2662 • TTY: 952
13%
30%
50%
3%5%
0 1 2 3 4 or more
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
How many cars does your household have?
8%
43%
27%
8%
14%
Always Within the last
year
Within the last 5
years
Within the last 10
years
Longer than 10
years ago
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
When was the last time you participated in a community
engagement process with the City of St. Louis Park?
Study session meeting of January 9, 2023 (Item No. 2)
Title: 2023 Cedar Lake Road (4023-1100) and 2024 Louisiana Avenue (4024-1100) improvement projects
update Page 37
Page 12
St. Louis Park Engineering Department • 5005 Minnetonka Blvd., St. Louis Park, MN 55416
www.stlouispark.org • Phone: 952.924.2656 • Fax: 952.924.2662 • TTY: 952
Interactive Feedback Map
As of November 20, 2022, the interactive feedback map had 133 comments. The interactive map
featured the three design alternatives for each of the corridors as well as the roundabout design at the
intersection of Cedar Lake Road and Louisiana Avenue. Users could select a pin and drop it in a location
on any of the design alternatives where they wanted to provide feedback. Pin categories included
Opportunity and Concern. Map feedback are summarized by design alternative and comment pin
category.
General Cedar Lake Road Alternatives Comments
• (outside scope of project) Need to remove dirt/gravel under the west side of the railroad bridge
on Virginia Avenue and route bike lane on the west side of the road with sidewalk on the east
side
• Safely accommodate bicyclists turning to/from Cedar Lake Road onto Virginia Avenue (many
bicyclists traveling to/from Cedar Lake Trail at this intersection) (e.g., raised speed table)
o Need for marked bike lanes on Virginia Ave S
o Add striping on east side of Cedar Lake Road/Virginia Avenue intersection to direct
bicyclists/remind drivers that bicyclists should turn left there versus at the cross walk
o Consider making this a tabled intersection
• Question about what turning left from eastbound Cedar Lake Road to northbound Virginia Circle
will look like
• Feel that people will still cross on the east side of the intersection since the sidewalk is on the
east side on Virginia Avenue
• Regardless of design chosen, with the tree removal and addition of non-permeable surfaces, add
more short grasses, native plantings, “Rainwater Rewards” compliant infrastructure, permeable
pavements, etc. throughout the corridor
• Concern about amount of tree removal, particularly on Alternative 1
o Bike/pedestrian traffic is low on Cedar Lake Rd; feel that a trail on the south side of the
roadway only is adequate
o Trees provide a “park” feel
Study session meeting of January 9, 2023 (Item No. 2)
Title: 2023 Cedar Lake Road (4023-1100) and 2024 Louisiana Avenue (4024-1100) improvement projects
update Page 38
Page 13
St. Louis Park Engineering Department • 5005 Minnetonka Blvd., St. Louis Park, MN 55416
www.stlouispark.org • Phone: 952.924.2656 • Fax: 952.924.2662 • TTY: 952
o Corridor features nice/mature trees that provide food and habitat for wildlife, need to
work around them
o Will trees be re-planted?
• All city reconstruction should included protected bike infrastructure so all ages/abilities can
utilize
• Need access improvements turning in/out of Walgreens
• Concerns at Westwood Lutheran Church:
o West exit needs to be relocated on church property
o Need access to church and early childhood center maintained throughout construction
of the project
o Would like to replace municipal water system as part of this project
Cedar Lake Road – Alternative 1: Multi Use Trail
Opportunity
• Like that the trail goes behind the bus stops
• Need for increased visibility for motorists at intersection of Cedar Lake Road/Sumter Avenue
• Consider offering a refresher on how to cross the street (what’s legal vs illegal, who yields to
whom)
• Consider having a roundabout at the intersection of Cedar Lake Road/Virginia Avenue and Cedar
Lake Road/Flag Avenue
Concern
• (outside scope of project) Need for safe walking and biking options on Jordan Avenue between
he egress point on Hwy 169 and Cedar Lake Rd
• Preference for the Cycle Tracks options because it provides a buffer between cars and bicyclists,
especially young children
• Concern about motorist speeds coming from Minnetonka Blvd on Cedar Lake Rd; need for traffic
calming and easing traffic congestion (e.g., mini roundabout)
• Feel multi use trail is only needed on one side of the road; would reduce impacts
• At Cedar Lake Road/Virginia Avenue intersection, consider tightening the turning radii; would
allow for channelized ADA ped ramps vs fan ramps
• At Cedar Lake Rd/Texas Ave:
o Question about whether the yellow striping will remain (vs concrete median) and if
sidewalks will be concrete (vs asphalt)
o Would like traffic signal to remain brown
o Concerns about impacts to trees and front yard
• (outside scope of project) Railroad bridge over Virginia Avenue should not be enlarged to
accommodate trucks
• Would like crosswalk at Rhode Island Avenue/Cedar Lake Rd to remain/be enhanced (with
RRFBs)
• On Cedar Lake Road at Nevada Avenue, consider removing traffic signal or an alternative traffic
control device as it backs up traffic during rush hour
Study session meeting of January 9, 2023 (Item No. 2)
Title: 2023 Cedar Lake Road (4023-1100) and 2024 Louisiana Avenue (4024-1100) improvement projects
update Page 39
Page 14
St. Louis Park Engineering Department • 5005 Minnetonka Blvd., St. Louis Park, MN 55416
www.stlouispark.org • Phone: 952.924.2656 • Fax: 952.924.2662 • TTY: 952
Cedar Lake Road – Alternative 2: Cycle Tracks
Opportunity
• On Cedar Lake Road at Texas Avenue, add bikeshare stations to help with first/last mile
connections
• (outside scope of project) Question about the possibility of adding wayfinding or future
improvements to connect the bike facilities on Cedar Lake Road to the trail entrance at Texa-
Tonka Park on Virginia Ave S
• (outside scope of project) Provide easy access from Cedar Lake Trail to Cedar Lake
Road/Louisiana Ave commercial district
Concern
• Question about why all crosswalks aren’t painted; more noticeable to drivers with paint
• Concern about losing the left turn at Flag Avenue
Cedar Lake Road – Alternative 3: Buffered Bike Lane
Opportunity
• Hoping improvements would be made to prevent traffic back ups at Park Spanish Immersion during
drop off/pick up times
• Add a cross walk across Cedar Lake Road at Quebec Avenue to provide pedestrian connection to the
middle school, soccer fields, and pond
Concern
• A bike lane on the road without a physical barrier is too dangerous, particularly for children
going to/from school
• Need for traffic light on Cedar Lake Road at Pennsylvania Avenue due to poor visibility going
east
General Louisiana Avenue Alternative Comments
• Put multi use trail on east side of the roadway only to minimize tree impacts
• Regardless of design chosen, include “Rainwater Rewards” compliant designs (e.g., permeable
pavement) for residents whose driveway aprons will be replaced; incentivize residents to build
more sustainably (completion of driveways with permeable pavement, rain gardens, etc.)
• Question about whether the chosen design will include a “net zero” analysis that shows how
new plantings, etc. will offset environmental and aesthetic impact of existing trees being
removed and whether residents will be compensated in some way for tree removals
• Questions about whether the Louisiana Avenue/Franklin Avenue intersection, Louisiana
Venue/16th Street W intersection, and nearby parks will feature maps of alternate
walking/biking routes, distances, and where crossings occur similar to Grand Rounds
• Consider adding speed bumps on Quebec Avenue between Cedar Lake Road and the Middle
School to slow traffic
Study session meeting of January 9, 2023 (Item No. 2)
Title: 2023 Cedar Lake Road (4023-1100) and 2024 Louisiana Avenue (4024-1100) improvement projects
update Page 40
Page 15
St. Louis Park Engineering Department • 5005 Minnetonka Blvd., St. Louis Park, MN 55416
www.stlouispark.org • Phone: 952.924.2656 • Fax: 952.924.2662 • TTY: 952
Louisiana Avenue – Alternative 1: Multi Use Trail
Opportunity
• Improvements should continue north to the intersections above I-394; need for improved traffic
flow here
• Like the right turn lane on southbound Louisiana Avenue onto 14th Street W
• Would like a right turn lane on northbound Louisiana Avenue onto 14th Street W
Concern
• Consider tighter turning radii at Louisiana Avenue/Wayzata Blvd
• Concern about stop light removal at Franklin – cars don’t stop for RRFBs
• Need for better Louisiana Avenue access to/from Walgreens (at Cedar Lake Road)
Louisiana Avenue – Alternative 2: Cycle Tracks
Opportunity
• Consider bikeshare stations at Louisiana Avenue/Franklin Avenue intersection due to high
densities of pedestrian traffic
• Question about whether safe crossing will be encouraged at 22nd Street or up at Franklin
Avenue; feel people will try to cross at 22nd Street as it’s the most direct path to the existing trail
and sports complex; coordinate signal with crossing at Franklin Avenue
Concern
• Need for signage and pavement markings at Louisiana Avenue/14th Street W intersection to
provide pedestrians/bicyclists a safe crossing
• Question about whether there will be a crosswalk at 18th Street W similar to 16th Street
• Question about whether there will be pavement markings indicating bike/pedestrian crossing at
secondary streets or only on main roads
Louisiana Avenue – Alternative 3: Alternate Route
Opportunity
• Supportive of this alternative because it reduces impacts along Louisiana
Roundabout
Opportunity
• Supportive of the roundabout because it would reduce idling cars/emissions
• Add more trees/greening to NW and SW quadrants of roundabout intersection
• Expand right of way in NE and SW quadrants to increase space for roundabout
• (outside of project scope) Consider a roundabout on Cedar Lake Rd at Texas Avenue and Nevada
Avenue as well
Concern
• Feel that a single lane northbound and southbound on Louisiana Ave is sufficient given traffic
has to merge further down the road
• Maintain left turn lane on southbound Louisiana Ave to 23rd St
• Concern about how cars turn in/out of businesses at this intersection:
Study session meeting of January 9, 2023 (Item No. 2)
Title: 2023 Cedar Lake Road (4023-1100) and 2024 Louisiana Avenue (4024-1100) improvement projects
update Page 41
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St. Louis Park Engineering Department • 5005 Minnetonka Blvd., St. Louis Park, MN 55416
www.stlouispark.org • Phone: 952.924.2656 • Fax: 952.924.2662 • TTY: 952
o Feel this design is similar to the current situation where it’s difficult to make a left turn
out of Walgreens onto Cedar Lake Road
o How cars will turn left from Cedar Lake Road into the Family Dollar/Ariana Kabob
parking lot and how cars will turn left out of the parking lot onto Cedar Lake Road
• Given how busy this intersection is, consider pedestrian tunnels at all crossings at this
intersection
• Concern about bicyclists/pedestrians having to navigate busy, multi-lane roundabout
• Concern about bicyclists having to merge from trail to the road at the same time the road
shifts/merges down to a single lane on Louisiana Avenue
• Feel that the right turn lane on westbound Cedar Lake Road onto northbound Louisiana Avenue
adds complexity for pedestrians and should be eliminated
General Phone/Email Comments
During round 2 engagement, we received 11 comments via email. They are summarized below.
• Need safety improvements for pedestrians/cyclists crossing Cedar Lake Road at Virginia Avenue
o High volume crossing due to bike path and children walking/biking to school
o Motorists have a hard time seeing people crossing due to speed and volume of cars
• Concern about replacement of traffic signal on Louisiana Avenue at Franklin Avenue with an
RRFB
o Eliot neighborhood kids have to cross Louisiana Avenue to get to school, even with
traffic signal there it’s scary
o Feel that cars rarely stop for RRFBs and worry about kids trying to negotiate them
• Concern about tree removal
o Tree canopy provides shade/cooling, removal contradicts city’s climate initiatives
o There can be safe and attractive bike/pedestrian infrastructure without sacrificing so
many trees
• Concern about intersection changes at Cedar Lake Road and Texas Avenue
• Concerns about adding a sidewalk and bike lane on east side of Louisiana Avenue due to
required tree removal and impacts to private property
• Questions about construction staging and business access throughout construction
• Generally, supportive of improvements to increase bicyclist and pedestrian access and safety
• Question about whether motorized scooters will be allowed in bike lanes
• Question about whether more porous surfaces will be used (over hardscape) on these projects
• Concern about the impacts these projects will have on homeowners along the corridors (parking
removal, shortening driveways, reduction in green space on individual lots)
o Consider having bike lane on one side of the roadway and sidewalk on the other to
preserve space, not needed on both sides
o Concern these impacts will decrease value of homes and question whether the city will
amend tax valuation for homes along these corridors
• On Cedar Lake Road, feel that it’s safer and more appropriate to bike on the roadway in
dedicated space/with low traffic; thus, would like to keep the existing roadway configuration –
saves trees and provides adequate bike and pedestrian space
• Keep the existing roadway width on Louisiana Avenue, saves trees
o Add a 3-4’ painted bike lane, west sidewalk is adequate
o Rarely see bicyclists along Louisiana Avenue, enough side streets that can facilitate
bicycling
Study session meeting of January 9, 2023 (Item No. 2)
Title: 2023 Cedar Lake Road (4023-1100) and 2024 Louisiana Avenue (4024-1100) improvement projects
update Page 42
Page 17
St. Louis Park Engineering Department • 5005 Minnetonka Blvd., St. Louis Park, MN 55416
www.stlouispark.org • Phone: 952.924.2656 • Fax: 952.924.2662 • TTY: 952
• Franklin is an important bike/pedestrian crossing that needs a stoplight
• Prefer the roundabout have one through lane northbound and southbound to reduce
confusion/safety issues
o Prevents issues with merging further down the road
o Provides space for a bike lane
Study session meeting of January 9, 2023 (Item No. 2)
Title: 2023 Cedar Lake Road (4023-1100) and 2024 Louisiana Avenue (4024-1100) improvement projects
update Page 43
St. Louis Park Engineering Department • 5005 Minnetonka Blvd., St. Louis Park, MN 55416
www.stlouispark.org • Phone: 952.924.2656 • Fax: 952.924.2662 • TTY: 952.924.2518
Cedar Lake Road and Louisiana Avenue Improvements
Round 3 Engagement Summary
December 27, 2022
Engagement Strategies and Approach
Three rounds of engagement are planned for the Cedar Lake Road and Louisiana Avenue Improvements
project. The city of St. Louis Park has completed the third round of engagement for the project. In this
round, the city shared the recommended design alternatives for Cedar Lake Road and Louisiana Avenue
and asked the public for their feedback on them. The input from this round will inform the
recommended layouts shared with City Council for approval.
Round 1 Round 2 Round 3
Timing Spring/Summer 2022 Fall 2022 Winter 2022
Focus Project introduction
and understanding
Present design
alternatives and
tradeoffs, design data,
and information about
data collection process
Presentation of
recommended layouts
Input goals Challenges and
opportunities of using
the corridor today
Prioritization of what
elements are
important for the
future
Gauging how well
design alternatives
help fulfill goals of the
community and the city
Potential impacts of
design concepts
Final feedback
documented for layout
presentation to city
council
Informs this project
action/next steps
Develop design
alternatives
Initial layout for each
corridor
Recommended layouts
presented for city
council approval
This document summarizes the feedback received during the third round of engagement from
December 2022 to January 2023. Appendix A includes a more detailed summary of responses received
from the open houses, online survey, and interactive feedback map.
To-date, project staff have engaged with the public about the project through the following:
• Virtual open houses
• February 23, 2022; 2 p.m.
• 25 attendees
• February 24, 2022; 6 p.m.
• 10 attendees
• September 21, 2022; 2 p.m.
• 19 attendees
• December 13, 2022; 2 p.m.
• 16 attendees
• In-person open house
• September 15, 2022; 5 p.m.
• Approx. 50 attendees
• December 15, 2022; 5 p.m.
• Approx. 30 attendees
• Pop-up events – Approximately 150 people
engaged total
• State of the Community
• May 15, 2022; 1 – 4 p.m.
• Hamilton House
• May 19, 2022; 2 – 4 p.m.
Study session meeting of January 9, 2023 (Item No. 2)
Title: 2023 Cedar Lake Road (4023-1100) and 2024 Louisiana Avenue (4024-1100) improvement projects
update Page 44
Page 2
St. Louis Park Engineering Department • 5005 Minnetonka Blvd., St. Louis Park, MN 55416
www.stlouispark.org • Phone: 952.924.2656 • Fax: 952.924.2662 • TTY: 952
• October 27, 2022; 1 – 3 p.m.
• Bike to Work Day
• May 20, 2022; 6:30 – 9 a.m.
• Ecotacular
• June 18, 2022; 2 – 6 p.m.
• Louisiana Court Apartments
• October 18, 2022; 2 p.m. – 4 p.m.
• Park Spanish Immersion Book Fair
• October 27, 2022; 4 – 6 p.m.
• Recordings of virtual open house meetings
• Virtual open house website (live spring
2022)
• Click-through slides featuring project
information and resources
• Paper/online survey
• Round 1: 126 responses
• Round 2: 44 responses
• Round 3: 7 responses
• Interactive feedback map
• Round 1: 419 comments
• Round 2: 133 comments
• Round 3: 14 comments
• Project postcards
• Round 1: ~500 mailed
• Round 2: ~760 mailed
• Round 3: ~3,000 mailed
• Project flyers
• Round 3: 200 passed out at the U.G.L.Y
Sweater Dash
• Email blasts to project distribution list
• Posts on the city’s social media outlets
• General phone/email comments
• Round 1: 7 comments
• Round 2: 11 comments
Common Themes
Below are common themes that emerged from the feedback received during round 3 engagement.
Round 3 – Presentation of preferred alternatives
• Need for safe, highly visible crossings for bikes and pedestrians along these corridors and in the
potential roundabout
• On Louisiana Avenue at 23rd Street,
o Concern that extended pedestrian and bike lanes suddenly stop and the existing
sidewalk is much narrower
o Concern that existing traffic lanes lead into new sidewalks when heading northbound on
Louisiana Avenue
• Need for sidewalks along Louisiana Avenue as pedestrians have been observed walking on the
road’s shoulder
• Concerns for the roundabout
o Motorists traveling at high speeds approaching the roundabout
o Motorists looking to by-pass the roundabout by cutting through residential areas
o Will the roundabout be able to safely accommodate motorists, pedestrians, and
bicyclists?
• Two-way traffic driveway from Walgreens would be near an exit of the roundabout – could this
be converted to an entry only/one-way driveway?
• Concern for how business parking lots would be affected by construction of the roundabout
(increase/decrease in parking spots)
Study session meeting of January 9, 2023 (Item No. 2)
Title: 2023 Cedar Lake Road (4023-1100) and 2024 Louisiana Avenue (4024-1100) improvement projects
update Page 45
Page 3
St. Louis Park Engineering Department • 5005 Minnetonka Blvd., St. Louis Park, MN 55416
www.stlouispark.org • Phone: 952.924.2656 • Fax: 952.924.2662 • TTY: 952
Appendix A. Detailed Round 3 Engagement Summary
Open Houses
The city hosted an in-person open house on
December 15, 2022 at Westwood Hills Nature
Center, where attendees could view the
preferred alternatives, ask staff questions, and
share their feedback. The city also hosted a
virtual open house on December 13, 2022. At
both meetings, staff gave a presentation and
answered questions from the audience.
Around 30 people attended the in-person
meeting and 16 attended the virtual meeting.
Below are some of the common
comments/questions received:
• Desire for striped crosswalks in
multiple locations, including non-enhanced crossings and near all bus stops
• Concern for cyclists
o Being able to turn from bike track to bike lane at Texas Avenue/Cedar Lake Road
intersection
o Safely getting through the roundabout without completely stopping or walking their
bike on pedestrian crossing
• Concern turning from Cedar Lake Road onto Virginia Circle – potential accident point
• Concern about the corner of 23rd and Louisiana Avenue – higher traffic speed could potentially
make turns more difficult
• Desire for a pedestrian signal at the roundabout at Cedar Lake Road and Louisiana Avenue
Comment Form
As of December 27, 2023, we received 7 comment form responses. Results are displayed below. A list of
common themes and responses received were summarized for open ended questions.
Do you have any feedback on the preferred alternative for Cedar Lake Road?
• Support for the cycle track
• Desire for more information on why the more cycle tracks are needed
• Desire for using the alternative that preserves trees and improves cycling safety
• Approval of an enhanced crosswalk at Virginia and Cedar Lake Road, commenting that the
enhanced crosswalk is needed
• This option seems similar to what was done on Cedar Lake Road between Kentucky Avenue and
Costco regarding sidewalks and bike paths
• Question about what would replace the traffic control lights at Texas Avenue and Nevada
Avenue if they are removed
Do you have any feedback on the preferred alternative for Louisiana Avenue?
• Desire for more information on why cycle tracks are needed
Figure 1. Open house at Westwood Hills Nature Center on
December 15, 2022.
Study session meeting of January 9, 2023 (Item No. 2)
Title: 2023 Cedar Lake Road (4023-1100) and 2024 Louisiana Avenue (4024-1100) improvement projects
update Page 46
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St. Louis Park Engineering Department • 5005 Minnetonka Blvd., St. Louis Park, MN 55416
www.stlouispark.org • Phone: 952.924.2656 • Fax: 952.924.2662 • TTY: 952
• Desire for using the alternative that preserves trees and improves cycling safety
• Desire for more safety precautions for pedestrians, i.e. flashing crosswalks and marked bike
trails
• Excitement for adding sidewalks after seeing people walking on the road’s shoulder
• Concern for the roundabout
o Will it be large enough and safe for both pedestrians and cars?
o Will this encourage cars to cut through the neighborhood to avoid the roundabout?
o Will this encourage people to speed up or slow down?
• Approval of roundabout
Interactive Feedback Map
Figure 2. Comment pins on the interactive feedback map
As of December 27, 2022, the interactive feedback map had 14 comments. The interactive map featured
the preferred alternative for each of the corridors as well as the roundabout design at the intersection
of Cedar Lake Road and Louisiana Avenue. Users could select a pin and drop it in a location on either of
the preferred alternatives where they wanted to provide feedback. Pin categories included Opportunity
and Concern. Map feedback are summarized by design alternative and comment pin category.
Cedar Lake Road
Concern
• Concern that vehicle traffic might cut through on 23rd Street to avoid the roundabout; cars seem
to already drive too fast and additional non-local traffic would make this area worse
Louisiana Avenue
Opportunity
• Excited for the addition of sidewalks
Concern
• Concern about removal of stoplight at Franklin Avenue; stoplight crossing is dangerous and
removing the stoplight could decrease safety further.
Study session meeting of January 9, 2023 (Item No. 2)
Title: 2023 Cedar Lake Road (4023-1100) and 2024 Louisiana Avenue (4024-1100) improvement projects
update Page 47
Page 5
St. Louis Park Engineering Department • 5005 Minnetonka Blvd., St. Louis Park, MN 55416
www.stlouispark.org • Phone: 952.924.2656 • Fax: 952.924.2662 • TTY: 952
Roundabout
Opportunity
• Question about whether the tobacco shop in the northeast corner of the roundabout would be
torn do and what would replace it if so
Concern
• Parking lot (parking lot of Hit Results Fitness/Ariana Kabob & Gyro Bistro/Family Dollar) is often
very busy; concern that there would be a loss of parking spaces
• Parking lot (parking lot of Westwood Liquors/Sichuan/Jerry’s Hardware & Rental) is often empty
– could parking lots be shifted?
• On Louisiana Avenue at 23rd Street
o Concern that Louisiana Avenue modifications are limited to the north side of the 23rd
Street intersection; would like them to apply to the south side of the intersection too
o Concern that the extended pedestrian and bike lanes suddenly stop and the existing
sidewalk is much narrower
o Concern that people might cut through on 23rd Street to avoid the roundabout; cars
seem to already drive too fast and additional non-local traffic would make this area
worse
o Can the extended sidewalk/boulevard design be implemented for safety of the
driveway at 7115 23rd Street and increased separation from the traffic lanes?
▪ Could the plan be mirrored on the other side of the street (west side of
Louisiana at this intersection)?
▪ It seems dangerous to turn from Louisiana onto 23rd in regard to this driveway.
• Pedestrians and bicyclists are sometimes difficult to see – could flashing
signage be used to warn drivers of pedestrians?
o How and when will the new updates will tie into future plans for the rest of Louisiana
Avenue between the proposed roundabout and Minnetonka Boulevard, and farther
down to the Highway 7 roundabouts. The current Connect the Park schedule puts those
segments at 2026 and 2027 respectively for bikeways, but neither appears on the MSA
Street Rehabilitation schedule.
▪ Suggestion for a Louisiana Avenue master plan: the three- and four-lane
segments appear out of step with the way road design is trending.
• Two-way traffic at the entrance to Walgreens is difficult – could this be made an entry only/one-
way?
• At the roundabout, could flashing lights for pedestrians be used to alert drivers in effort to
increase pedestrian safety?
Study session meeting of January 9, 2023 (Item No. 2)
Title: 2023 Cedar Lake Road (4023-1100) and 2024 Louisiana Avenue (4024-1100) improvement projects
update Page 48