11-18-1996 CC MIN - Laserfiche WebLink

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Elk River City Council Minutes November 18, 1996 Page 3 to the use of the pedestrian cycle crossing lights. Terry Maurer further indicated that MnDOT has indicated that 90 percent of the vohictes are presently traveling faster than the 45 mile per hour speed limit. Terry Maurer indicated that the other issues of concern such as the pedestrian overhead crossing, lighting, signal warning flashers, and fencing will be reviewed at MnDOT's annual safety program. Terry Maurer discussed the possibility of an overpass pedestrian crossing and the effect that ADA requirements would have on the overpass. Terry Maurer reviewed I3ossible locations and costs regarding an overpass. Mayor Duitsman indicated that, at a minimum, the City should consider warning signals, lighting, and fencing. He also asked MnDOT to review the signal timing issue on Highway 10 cs it relates to the train activities. Gary Dirlam of MnDOT indicated that MnDOT has been working together with the City regarding the lis~ of concerns on T.H. 169. Tom Dumont of MnDOT informed the Council that MnDOT is working with the Department of Public Safety to provide education on how to proceed with the "Walk" and "Don't Walk" ir dicator lights. Councilmember Farber indicated that he did not feel the green light was long enough to allow pedestrians to cross Highway 169. He stated that mosl pedestrians take extra time to cross to ensure that oncoming traffic has completely stopped prior to their beginning to cross the highway. Many citizens voiced their concern at the meeting regarding the length of the green light for pedestrian crossing on T.H. 169 being too short. It was the consensus of the Council to have MnDOT meet with staff representatives and representatives from the public to review this situation and determine whether the light needs to be lengthened. Councilmember Scheel indicated she would like to see the speed limit reduced on T.H. 169 from Main Street to 193rd Avenue to 30 miles per hour. She further indicated she would like to see the lights coordinated so that trucks can get through all lights if they hit a green light. Tom Dumont of MnDOT indicated that he did not feel lowering the speed limit to 30 miles per hour would be a viable solution because a majority of the vehicles are already traveling faster than the 45 mile per hour speed limit. Councilmember Scheel fudher suggested placing reduced speed signs along the highway. Comments were made by the public regarding the location and need for fencing along T.H. 169 to prevent pedestrians from crossing the highway at an unsignalized location. Mike Twaddle thanked Senator Ourada and Representative Bruce Anderson, MnDOT officials, and City officials for meeting with the public on these issues. Mr. Twaddle indicated that a fence is necessary and the extended 45 mile per hour speed limit to 193rd Avenue is necessary. He stated it is the City and State's responsibility to create the safest atmosphere to get from one place to the next.