8.3. SR 07-21-2014 - Laserfiche WebLink

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to MnDOT to be included in their Roadside Landscaping Partnership program,which would provide financial assistance. This project is being tabled,pending the conclusion of the wayfinding sign study. Staff expects this project to be completed in 2015. Monument signs are budgeted for separately in the Capital Improvement Plan and will fund a majority of the work associated with this project. Jackson Avenue and Highway 10 Intersection Improvements Plans have not been prepared for the project, and staff anticipates construction to occur in 2015. Staff wants to ensure compatibility with the wayfinding program. Tree Replacements along Main Street in Downtown There are currently three dead boulevard trees along Main Street in front of the First National Bank and dental office buildings. The trees struggled, and ultimately died due to a number of factors. The trees have very little space to grow and the pavement runs up to the trunk, limiting the amount of water that the root system receives. Staff evaluated a number of replacement options to improve the survivability of the trees,including the variety of tree used. Replacement options ranged from $16,000+ per tree,providing the best opportunity for long term success, to $800 per tree utilizing the same planting technique as today. Staff recommends removing some of the pavers,installing a tree grate,improving the planting soil, and replacing the trees with a Japanese Tree Lilac. These changes permit water to reach the soil,protect the roots and trunk,and increase the odds of long-term growth. Main Street through downtown is well traveled and receives a large amount of pedestrian traffic, a prime location for improved beautification. Staff estimates each tree replacement will cost approximately$2,500, and recommends replacing them this year,as budget allows. Similar tree grates were included in the sidewalk improvements near the roundabout, along Railroad Drive. A number of other trees along Main Street are struggling and will be replaced in 2015 with the same improvements as budget allows. King Avenue Parking Lot The area between the parking lot and the sidewalk along Highway 10 includes a number of Ash trees and landscape rock. The space will benefit from improved landscaping and staff has been working on plans for the area. Improvements include replacing the Ash trees with a different species due to likely impacts from the Emerald Ash Borer and planting a variety of shrubs and perennials to provide year-round color, interest,and screening. The project will be installed in the spring of 2015. Financial Impact The Capital Improvement Plan has $29,374.50 remaining for beautification improvements, and staff anticipates irrigation to cost approximately$25,000. The downtown tree replacements will be completed as budget allows. Attachments ■ None N:\Public Bodies\Agenda Packets\07-21-2014\Fina1\x8.3 sr Corridor Beautification Update.docx