4.3. SR 04-19-1999 - Laserfiche WebLink

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. . . The analysis is presented in a table format for each potential station location in the corridor. A general overview is provided to identify areas that mayor may not be impacted. A more thorough evaluation of potential impacts in these areas will be completed during the preparation of the environmental impact statement (EIS) for the Northstar commuter rail system. Results of the analysis provided an initial assessment as to whether the proposed locations are conducive to supporting a commuter rail station and station activity. Responses from community representatives were positive overall, and many communities have started planning for potential land use and community development around the station sites. In some areas, land acquisitions may be necessary to accommodate anticipated use. Additional findings from the analysis include the following: . Regionally, air quality will be improved by the commuter rail system. However, there may be increased carbon monoxide emissions at station sites where large park and ride lots are planned. Additionally, increased vehicular traffic accessing station sites may also increase carbon monoxide emissions . Increased noise levels resulting from commuter rail and station activity appeared to be minor at this phase of the study, due to existing volumes of freight traffic already experienced by the surrounding communities. . The proposed station sites are located in areas currently serving commercial and/or industrial development. Construction of a station in these areas is expected to enhance or improve the overall visual landscape in the area. . Physical impacts on areas such as floodplains, wetlands and prime farmlands, are minor in the majority of proposed site locations. . Archeological and historical impacts vary by location. Sites close to rivers or lakes have higher probability levels of existing archeological resources. Examples include sites in Big Lake, Ramsey/Anoka, Fridley, and downtown Minneapolis. Historical resources are abundant in downtown St. Cloud and northeast Minneapolis; each of the two proposed station areas include historical districts and numerous historically important sites. . Based on the anticipated number of commuters utilizing the stations, rural areas are expected to accommodate the travel demand to the stations with few improvements in comparison to areas such as St. Cloud, Elk River and communities south. Further evaluation will be conducted to determine necessary improvements regarding safety and sufficient roadway access. . Anticipated parking needs have been identified for each station location. Adequate space to build parking areas at each station has not been evaluated. . Construction will impact areas around station sites, segments, maintenance facilities and Northtown Yard. Most construction impacts will be short-term and will be properly mitigated during the construction phase of the commuter rail system. Typical construction impacts include: air quality (dust from earthwork), noise and vibration, neighborhood, natural environment, municipal infrastructure, and water quality. Additionally, regional and state economic impacts would result from the construction of the Northstar commuter rail system. Commuter Rail Feasibility Study March 24, 1999 8-3 Social and Environmental Impacts