6.9. SR 06-18-2007 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Summary of Focus Group Meeting - 5 - May 17,2007 Elk River Highway 169 Preliminary Design and Environmental Documentation GUARDIAN ANGELS Representatives from the Guardian Angels met with Jim Hallgren (Mn/DOT), Scott Clark (City of Elk River), Beth Bartz (SRF Consulting Group), and John Hagen (SRF Consulting Group) at the Guardian Angels site from 8:00 to 9:30 a.m. The purpose of this meeting was to involve a key stakeholder group from the Elk River community. Focus group discussion is summarized below. . Concern was expressed regarding the TH 10 IRC study recommendation that TH lObe elevated through the downtown area. Scott Clark noted that the City did not agree with that recommendation, although they accepted they study. . The stoplights currently breaking down on both TH 10 and TH 169 is problematic. . Cut-through traffic frequently occurs from Main St. to Evans S1. and then to the west when Main St is congested. . It was suggested that the Main S1. interchange could be moved further south toward TH 10. Jim Hallgren noted interchange spacing concerns. The group also asked about the possibility of relocating GRE to open up other opportunities. . The group asked if the Main interchange is generally too problematic and suggested the option of dropping this alternative from consideration. John Hagen explained that the large amount of traffic entering and exiting TH 169 would overwhelm a single interchange. . Pedestrian crossing of TH 169 is an issue. Many seniors rely on scooters for transport. Wal Mart, Cub Foods and Target (groceries and pharmacy) are key destinations. . The group asked whether any consideration was given to a bypass around Elk River for recreational traffic going north. The "Elk River Bypass" concept was explained, but it was also noted that a bypass would not eliminate the need for improvements to TH 169 through Elk River due the traffic generated by adjacent land uses. . The biggest issue is local use ofTH 169 and TH 10 because there are not good alternate north-south or east-west routes. . Timing of the improvements was discussed. Jim Hallgren explained that there are no funds currently in place, but that having completed preliminary plans and environmental approvals will increase the chances that funding could be made available. . The amount of traffic going west on Main S1. to connect to TH 10 is problematic. A connection off to Proctor or Jackson S1. would relieve some traffic. Additionally, "cheating" is occurring at the Parrish river crossing. Limited railroad crossings also create bottlenecks. . Many residents of the facility still drive. There is concern about any alternatives that increase traffic on Evans S1., create more congestion at Evans S1. and Main St., or provide a confusing connection across TH 169 (single-point interchange configuration of Alternative BC-3). Any options that would provide seniors with a safe path to or from their facility would be appreciated. . Residents are also served by an Elk River circulator bus provided by Sherburne County. . Preference indicated for Alternative BC2.