5.2. PCSR 05-12-2009 - Laserfiche WebLink

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THE T P TAT TE Northstar Commuter Rail Station The Northstar commuter rail is seen as a plus for growth in the district, but not a primary driver for change. As the system matures and ridership grows it is important the station meets the demands of the patrons. Adequate parking will be a necessity. While the current lot provides 70o spaces, additional space may be needed in the future. A parking deck or ramp structure should be considered for the station in consideration with mixed-use development before more surface parking spaces are added since little land exists for development immediately adjacent to the station. Providing adequate facilities for bike commuting are also suggested. Bike lockers allow a safe, secure location for commuters to store their bikes. A well integrated trail system will further promote bike commuting to the Northstar station. Community Circulator Bus With the potential for more increased reverse commute trains, the city of Elk River should examine the feasibility of a community circulator bus to work in concert with the Northstar schedule. The circulator would connect community employment centers, downtown and commercial centers to the Northstar station eliminating the need for the automobile for some commuters. Rail Line The master plan suggests providing an additional crossing of the BNSF rail line near 173rd Avenue. This additional crossing will allow for improved traffic flow for the commercial and industrial uses in the north of the study, rather than funneling all traffic to Twin Lakes Parkway to cross the rail line. As the city lobbies to shift the rail line north near downtown, the city should investigate the feasibility of either an at-grade or grade separated crossing in this location. While creating an additional crossing is challenging, it is still worthwhile as something to strive for to create better and more intensive development. The opportunity for a rail spur off of a major freight rail corridor could be significant for industrial uses in the FAST. The master plan suggests a parallel spur line to serve the industrial uses surrounding the RDF plant. ~ ~ --- by 9798. t~'yt~q'1~I~FOCUSed~lrea5rudy A parking deck or ramp may be needed in the future to accommodate increased demand for the Northstar commuter rail. Bike lockers allow a secure location for commuters to store their bikes A circulator bus would connect other key activity centers in Elk River with the Northstar station Ar :, L itional rail crossing should be considered at ~??: d:~,venue