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99-1164-A,,r�,a ��, — � �. �� ( �� RESOLUTION CITY OF SQINT PAUL,�NNESOTA Presented Referred To Council File # �,q, —\( G � Green Sheet # 1 D 4 �► 9 Committee Date 1 WHEREAS, major improvements in public transit planned and anticipated far the region will undoubtedly have a 2 significant impact on the future development of Saint Paul and its neighborhoods; and WHEREAS, the Saint Paul City Council requested that the Planuing Commission "analyze LRT and other transit alternatives in the Central Corridor, and evaluate specific issues related to construcrion impacts, design with respect to traffic and parking, redevelopment impacts and design aesthetics" and "obtain community input on LRT in the Central Corridor with respect to the aforementioned issues, evaluate the previous positions of the City on LRT development, and consider making specific recommendations on LRT development in Saint Paul;" and .. : ' - �r• � � . .--. - . -. -� . --.. .� - ' -.: � .. • .. .. - - - .. - � - 1 . - . .- � - - 11 WIIEREAS, the Planning Commission only found that significant changes due to improved technology made 12 University Avenue an option for light rail transit, reported those findings with conclusions and recommendations in 13 a report entitled Light Rail Transit on University Avenue: A Review of the Potential; and 14 WHEREAS, the Raznsey County Regional Rail Authority will be undertaking amajor study ofthe Central Corridor 15 beginning next year that will include consideration of potential alignments; and 16 WHEREAS,developmentpolicyadoptedbythisCouncilintheSaintPaulComprehensivePlanestablishesapriarity 17 for the Central Corridor Options linking the two downtowns for major new transit; and 18 WHEREAS, it is important to continue to review alternative alignments carefuJly and continue to clarify our 19 intentions concerning potential light rail development in order to participate appropriately in regional decisions. 20 RESOLVED, that the Saint Paul City Council accepts the report entitled Light Rail Transit on University Avenue: 21 A Review of the Potential dated November, 1999; and or. l�.r�;v �cs:�- Av ev�v.e.' 22 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Ci ouncil requests that PED continue to participate as appropriate on 23 behalf of the City in the study of light rail 24 ' , 25 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the City Council requests that the Ramsey County Regional Rail Authority� 26 include consideration of��m�ents in their study of the central corridor, and onl� �a."vc.�s �� Av �n�.� 27 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the City Council thanks the Planning Commission and the citizens and 28 arganizations who participated in the study. �� -�t�y Requested by Departrnent oE � Form Approved by City Attomey � Adoption Certifled by Council Secretary Approved by Mayor for Submission to Council By: " Approved b fayt�: Date �� 1�?�� By: �� l'� v�/�� AdoptedbyCouncil: Date �� , � \qq� i �`t —��c,y Council 11 GREEN SHEET i�ume. Ic.L. . ,•. a: No 104491 Hre� [- : F- � '� � F � , ❑ 'UIYI1TiO11IEY TOTAL # OF SIGNATURE PAGES � RIYYJI1LtFR111CFY0R. ❑ Ii11111GLiER11/I{CR6 MYOItI��lllf) ❑ (CLJP ALL LOCATIONS FOR SIGNATURE) Accepting the report entitled "Light Rail Transit on University Avenue: A Review of the Potential" and requesting the Department of Planning & Economic Development to continue to participate on behalf of the City in the study of light rail alignments underway by Ramsey County and include consideration of all light rail transit options in the Central Corridor, and requesting that the Ramsey County Regional Rail Authority include consideration of potential alignments in their study of the Central Corridor. w PUINNING COMMISSION CIB CAMMITTEE CIVIL SERVICE CAMMISSION IFAPPROVED IF APPROVED IF NOT �Y) AMOUNT OF TRANSACTION t MFORMATON (IXPWN) Has tnis a�rm ever warked under a cantract f« this deparlmem? VES NO Hes Mfe pereoMrm aver heen e city empbyce7 YES NO Doec Mis peisoMm� P� a sldN ro[ normallYO� bY anY curreM city emWoyee? VES NO Is tlus peieonnrfirm e taryMed vendoR YES NO COST/REVENUE BUDOETED (GRCLE ONE) ACTNITY NUMBER �3 NO DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Brian Sweeney, Director ,�+, l y.9 ,i� .�� R0. -��y CTTY OF SAII�IT PAUL Norm Ca(eman, Mayor 2i West Four7h Street Saint Pau[, � 55102 Telephone: 651 d 66-6655 Facsimile: 657-2283314 R LV� Memorandum To: From: Date: Re: City Council Member Jerry Blakey Tom Harren A1 Lovejoy Joel Spoonheim 23. November 1999 Planning Commission LRT Study .� .._ . 'r�rai � R4A .. . � � Summary This memo is to clarify the scope of the Planning Commission's recent study on LRT. The decision not to include a significant discussion regazding alignments on I-94 and the Great Northern Corridor was the result of narrowing the scope of the study. While the study concentrated on University Avenue, this was done with the understanding that LRT remains feasible in the I-94 and Great Northern corridors. The Commission found that technology and other changes in recent years could now allow LRT to work well on University Avenue and that it could have significant potential economic development impact. Background On November 10, 1999 you were presented the Planning Commission's recently completed study Light Rail Transit on Universiry Avenue: A Review of the Potential. This study was requested by the City Council to aid in your decision and recommendations to the Metropolitan Council and State Legislature as they debate the future of LRT in the east metro. We reviewed the earlier studies of LRT and consulted experts from around the nation regarding the three key alignments. Based on this research we reported to the Commission that building LRT on I-94 and in the Great Northem Corridor remains feasible as was concluded in eazlier studies. Furthermore, there is no reason to expect that the conclusions of the 1994 analysis of economic development potential for an I-94 alignment have changed. We were advised to research the impact that new technologies and better understanding of transit related development could have for University Avenue. As the Planning Commission report states, new technologies address some of the issues that created major problems for building LRT on University Avenue. Parking and four lanes of traffic can now be retained for most the Avenue. Stations are less obtrusive and fit into the built environment. Noise of trains is minimal due to new rail technology. Construction times are shorter than in eazlier years, thus disrupting ��l —��c�y commerce less. Additionally, the consultants indicated that the economic development impacts of LRT would likely be greatest on an urban street corridor such as University. This issue was not well understood or documented in earlier studies. With this information, the Planning Commission determined that their study should focus on University Avenue where new information could impact previous decisions. The study presented to you explains the impact of new technology and information for University Avenue and concludes that this alignment is feasible. H.\SharetnSpoonhe��I.RTwuncd ll _I9_99.wpd FILE No.441 11i19 '99 AM 10�47 ID�MIDWAY CHAMBER rHX�b51 b4b C�ar rHUc �� —l\c�y ItECOM1�SENDATION Based on these key findings and the political climate that appears ready to embraca a University Avenue alignment, the Task Force recommends that the Midway Chember of Commarce endorse the fol(owing policy statement: University Avenue is the preferred route for LRT. University Avenue ie the epine connccting two major downtown areas; the University of 2vTinnesota; more than 50,000 workers in St. Paut's Midway alone; and one of the most densely populated residemiai communities in the rogion. In addition, University Avetrua enjoys the highest trensit ridership in the region, and has a right-of-way that can essily accommodate LRT. Finally, University Avenue is home to a regional shopping area and an increasing number of high density office uses. Locating LRT en busy and important commarcial straets allows for the greatest positive economic devatopn,ant impact and sarves tha greatast transit need. 2. 'Che impact of constructing the line on austing University Avenue businesses must be carefuUy and aggressively managed. All businesses must be consulted early in the planning and construction process to discover special needs. The City must prepare a small business suppoR plan to assist existing businesses that are especially vulnerabte to the disruption caused by the LRT constn. ,.��6.. We strongly urge that new LRT technologies (LRT light) be carefully considered so as to minimize the impact of construction on existing businesses. Access to exisGng businesses must be preservad during and aftar construction and on-straet and/or off-street parking must be available for txisting businesses during and afier construction. Design of left turn options must also be carefuliy considered to protact the interest of existing businesses. University Avenue LRT sfiouid includa a$50 million dadicated economic development fund for University Avenue that focuses ^� moderate density office and housing development; retains light industrial m aufacturing businesses adjacent to the Avenue; supports existing regional shopping �ses; and protects the burgeoning Asian businesa community on the east and of the Avenue. 4. The design of LRT on University Avenue should make the street more pedestrian-fiiendty and enhance the streetscape through Iandscaping, street furniture, etc. to add to tha aesthetics of the area. S. LRT must be part of a lerger inveetment and re-design of the public transit system secving the Central Corridor. Bus service on University Avenue must be re-designed to retain high quality (ocal servica and bus scrvice on north/south streets must be expanderl end enhanced. b. The next regional priority for LAT investment shou]d be University Avenue. This corridor hes the strongest potential ridership and the presents the greatest aconomic development benefits. __ ---_ --- __ _ _ _ � Nancy Anderson Council Fiie 99 1164 � �� _. _ �_. __ __ __ _,. _ _ ,_ __ _ . Page,1 From: To: Date: Subject: Nancy Anderson Council 12/7/99 2:15PM Council File 99-1164 a3Q �q_ rl�y Councilmembers: C.F. 99-1164 (LRT) was inadvertently left off of the Council Agenda for tomorrow, December 8. This resolution was brought in under suspension on November 24 by Councilmember Blakey and laid over to December 8, as a discussion item. Therefore, I am notifying you of this additional item on tomorrow's agenda. Copies of the resolution will be distributed and delivered to your offices this afternoon. CC: Byrne, Phil; Lovejoy, Allen Council File # gg�� RESOLUTION �Presented Referred To CITY OF Green Sheet # � � ►-� 1� q ESOTA Committee Date i WHEREAS, maj or improvements in public transit planned and anticipated for the region will un oubtedly have a 2 significant impact on the future development of Saint Paul and its neighborhoods; and 3 Wf�REAS, the Saint Paul City Council requested that the Planning Commission "anal e LRT and other transit 4 altematives in the Central Corridor, and evaluate specific issues related to construction' pacts, design with respect 5 to traffic and parking, redevelopment impacts and design aesthetics" and "obtain c unity input on LRT in the 6 Central Corridor with respect to the aforementioned issues, evaluate the previo s positions of the City on LRT 7 development, and consider making specific recommendations on LRT develo ent in Saint Paul;" and 10 11 WHEREAS, the Planning Commission only found that signific t changes due to improved technology made � University Avenue an option for light rail transit, reported those dings with conclusions and recommendations in report entitled Light Rail Transz� an Jniversity Avenue: A view of the Potential; and 14 WHEREAS, the Ramsey County Regional Rail Authority 'll be undertaking a major study ofthe Central Corridor 15 beginning next year that will include consideration of tential alignments; and 16 WHEREAS, development policy adopted by this Co cil in the Saint Paul Comprehensive Plan establishes a priority 17 for the Central Corridor Options linking the two,downtowns for major new transit; and 18 WHEREAS, it is important to ccc�u..ue to Yeview altemative alignments cazefully and continue to clazify our 19 intentions concerning potential lig�it rail development in order to participate appropriately in regional decisions. 1'� 20 RESOLVED, that the Saint Paul City Council accepts the report entitled Light Rail ' ' " Avenue: 21 A Review of the Potential dated November, 1999• and • �� r UMfbCN'St 22 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVEB,'that the 23 behalf of the Ciry in the studg. of light raii continue to participate as appropriate on 2� � RTH r ,�a e City Council requests that the Ramsey County Regional Rail Autho� 26 include considera�n o ' in their srixdy of the central corridor, and �� 4ttyfXS1� �VCUlU. � E IT FURTHE , t the City Council thanks the Planning Commission and the citizens and rganizations who participated in the study. � � i � Requested by Department of. Adoprion Certified by Council Secretary By: Approved by Mayor: Date By: � Form Approved by Ciry Attorney � Approved by Mayor for Submission to Council By: Adopted by Council: Date -A,,r�,a ��, — � �. �� ( �� RESOLUTION CITY OF SQINT PAUL,�NNESOTA Presented Referred To Council File # �,q, —\( G � Green Sheet # 1 D 4 �► 9 Committee Date 1 WHEREAS, major improvements in public transit planned and anticipated far the region will undoubtedly have a 2 significant impact on the future development of Saint Paul and its neighborhoods; and WHEREAS, the Saint Paul City Council requested that the Planuing Commission "analyze LRT and other transit alternatives in the Central Corridor, and evaluate specific issues related to construcrion impacts, design with respect to traffic and parking, redevelopment impacts and design aesthetics" and "obtain community input on LRT in the Central Corridor with respect to the aforementioned issues, evaluate the previous positions of the City on LRT development, and consider making specific recommendations on LRT development in Saint Paul;" and .. : ' - �r• � � . .--. - . -. -� . --.. .� - ' -.: � .. • .. .. - - - .. - � - 1 . - . .- � - - 11 WIIEREAS, the Planning Commission only found that significant changes due to improved technology made 12 University Avenue an option for light rail transit, reported those findings with conclusions and recommendations in 13 a report entitled Light Rail Transit on University Avenue: A Review of the Potential; and 14 WHEREAS, the Raznsey County Regional Rail Authority will be undertaking amajor study ofthe Central Corridor 15 beginning next year that will include consideration of potential alignments; and 16 WHEREAS,developmentpolicyadoptedbythisCouncilintheSaintPaulComprehensivePlanestablishesapriarity 17 for the Central Corridor Options linking the two downtowns for major new transit; and 18 WHEREAS, it is important to continue to review alternative alignments carefuJly and continue to clarify our 19 intentions concerning potential light rail development in order to participate appropriately in regional decisions. 20 RESOLVED, that the Saint Paul City Council accepts the report entitled Light Rail Transit on University Avenue: 21 A Review of the Potential dated November, 1999; and or. l�.r�;v �cs:�- Av ev�v.e.' 22 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Ci ouncil requests that PED continue to participate as appropriate on 23 behalf of the City in the study of light rail 24 ' , 25 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the City Council requests that the Ramsey County Regional Rail Authority� 26 include consideration of��m�ents in their study of the central corridor, and onl� �a."vc.�s �� Av �n�.� 27 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the City Council thanks the Planning Commission and the citizens and 28 arganizations who participated in the study. �� -�t�y Requested by Departrnent oE � Form Approved by City Attomey � Adoption Certifled by Council Secretary Approved by Mayor for Submission to Council By: " Approved b fayt�: Date �� 1�?�� By: �� l'� v�/�� AdoptedbyCouncil: Date �� , � \qq� i �`t —��c,y Council 11 GREEN SHEET i�ume. Ic.L. . ,•. a: No 104491 Hre� [- : F- � '� � F � , ❑ 'UIYI1TiO11IEY TOTAL # OF SIGNATURE PAGES � RIYYJI1LtFR111CFY0R. ❑ Ii11111GLiER11/I{CR6 MYOItI��lllf) ❑ (CLJP ALL LOCATIONS FOR SIGNATURE) Accepting the report entitled "Light Rail Transit on University Avenue: A Review of the Potential" and requesting the Department of Planning & Economic Development to continue to participate on behalf of the City in the study of light rail alignments underway by Ramsey County and include consideration of all light rail transit options in the Central Corridor, and requesting that the Ramsey County Regional Rail Authority include consideration of potential alignments in their study of the Central Corridor. w PUINNING COMMISSION CIB CAMMITTEE CIVIL SERVICE CAMMISSION IFAPPROVED IF APPROVED IF NOT �Y) AMOUNT OF TRANSACTION t MFORMATON (IXPWN) Has tnis a�rm ever warked under a cantract f« this deparlmem? VES NO Hes Mfe pereoMrm aver heen e city empbyce7 YES NO Doec Mis peisoMm� P� a sldN ro[ normallYO� bY anY curreM city emWoyee? VES NO Is tlus peieonnrfirm e taryMed vendoR YES NO COST/REVENUE BUDOETED (GRCLE ONE) ACTNITY NUMBER �3 NO DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Brian Sweeney, Director ,�+, l y.9 ,i� .�� R0. -��y CTTY OF SAII�IT PAUL Norm Ca(eman, Mayor 2i West Four7h Street Saint Pau[, � 55102 Telephone: 651 d 66-6655 Facsimile: 657-2283314 R LV� Memorandum To: From: Date: Re: City Council Member Jerry Blakey Tom Harren A1 Lovejoy Joel Spoonheim 23. November 1999 Planning Commission LRT Study .� .._ . 'r�rai � R4A .. . � � Summary This memo is to clarify the scope of the Planning Commission's recent study on LRT. The decision not to include a significant discussion regazding alignments on I-94 and the Great Northern Corridor was the result of narrowing the scope of the study. While the study concentrated on University Avenue, this was done with the understanding that LRT remains feasible in the I-94 and Great Northern corridors. The Commission found that technology and other changes in recent years could now allow LRT to work well on University Avenue and that it could have significant potential economic development impact. Background On November 10, 1999 you were presented the Planning Commission's recently completed study Light Rail Transit on Universiry Avenue: A Review of the Potential. This study was requested by the City Council to aid in your decision and recommendations to the Metropolitan Council and State Legislature as they debate the future of LRT in the east metro. We reviewed the earlier studies of LRT and consulted experts from around the nation regarding the three key alignments. Based on this research we reported to the Commission that building LRT on I-94 and in the Great Northem Corridor remains feasible as was concluded in eazlier studies. Furthermore, there is no reason to expect that the conclusions of the 1994 analysis of economic development potential for an I-94 alignment have changed. We were advised to research the impact that new technologies and better understanding of transit related development could have for University Avenue. As the Planning Commission report states, new technologies address some of the issues that created major problems for building LRT on University Avenue. Parking and four lanes of traffic can now be retained for most the Avenue. Stations are less obtrusive and fit into the built environment. Noise of trains is minimal due to new rail technology. Construction times are shorter than in eazlier years, thus disrupting ��l —��c�y commerce less. Additionally, the consultants indicated that the economic development impacts of LRT would likely be greatest on an urban street corridor such as University. This issue was not well understood or documented in earlier studies. With this information, the Planning Commission determined that their study should focus on University Avenue where new information could impact previous decisions. The study presented to you explains the impact of new technology and information for University Avenue and concludes that this alignment is feasible. H.\SharetnSpoonhe��I.RTwuncd ll _I9_99.wpd FILE No.441 11i19 '99 AM 10�47 ID�MIDWAY CHAMBER rHX�b51 b4b C�ar rHUc �� —l\c�y ItECOM1�SENDATION Based on these key findings and the political climate that appears ready to embraca a University Avenue alignment, the Task Force recommends that the Midway Chember of Commarce endorse the fol(owing policy statement: University Avenue is the preferred route for LRT. University Avenue ie the epine connccting two major downtown areas; the University of 2vTinnesota; more than 50,000 workers in St. Paut's Midway alone; and one of the most densely populated residemiai communities in the rogion. In addition, University Avetrua enjoys the highest trensit ridership in the region, and has a right-of-way that can essily accommodate LRT. Finally, University Avenue is home to a regional shopping area and an increasing number of high density office uses. Locating LRT en busy and important commarcial straets allows for the greatest positive economic devatopn,ant impact and sarves tha greatast transit need. 2. 'Che impact of constructing the line on austing University Avenue businesses must be carefuUy and aggressively managed. All businesses must be consulted early in the planning and construction process to discover special needs. The City must prepare a small business suppoR plan to assist existing businesses that are especially vulnerabte to the disruption caused by the LRT constn. ,.��6.. We strongly urge that new LRT technologies (LRT light) be carefully considered so as to minimize the impact of construction on existing businesses. Access to exisGng businesses must be preservad during and aftar construction and on-straet and/or off-street parking must be available for txisting businesses during and afier construction. Design of left turn options must also be carefuliy considered to protact the interest of existing businesses. University Avenue LRT sfiouid includa a$50 million dadicated economic development fund for University Avenue that focuses ^� moderate density office and housing development; retains light industrial m aufacturing businesses adjacent to the Avenue; supports existing regional shopping �ses; and protects the burgeoning Asian businesa community on the east and of the Avenue. 4. The design of LRT on University Avenue should make the street more pedestrian-fiiendty and enhance the streetscape through Iandscaping, street furniture, etc. to add to tha aesthetics of the area. S. LRT must be part of a lerger inveetment and re-design of the public transit system secving the Central Corridor. Bus service on University Avenue must be re-designed to retain high quality (ocal servica and bus scrvice on north/south streets must be expanderl end enhanced. b. The next regional priority for LAT investment shou]d be University Avenue. This corridor hes the strongest potential ridership and the presents the greatest aconomic development benefits. __ ---_ --- __ _ _ _ � Nancy Anderson Council Fiie 99 1164 � �� _. _ �_. __ __ __ _,. _ _ ,_ __ _ . Page,1 From: To: Date: Subject: Nancy Anderson Council 12/7/99 2:15PM Council File 99-1164 a3Q �q_ rl�y Councilmembers: C.F. 99-1164 (LRT) was inadvertently left off of the Council Agenda for tomorrow, December 8. This resolution was brought in under suspension on November 24 by Councilmember Blakey and laid over to December 8, as a discussion item. Therefore, I am notifying you of this additional item on tomorrow's agenda. Copies of the resolution will be distributed and delivered to your offices this afternoon. CC: Byrne, Phil; Lovejoy, Allen Council File # gg�� RESOLUTION �Presented Referred To CITY OF Green Sheet # � � ►-� 1� q ESOTA Committee Date i WHEREAS, maj or improvements in public transit planned and anticipated for the region will un oubtedly have a 2 significant impact on the future development of Saint Paul and its neighborhoods; and 3 Wf�REAS, the Saint Paul City Council requested that the Planning Commission "anal e LRT and other transit 4 altematives in the Central Corridor, and evaluate specific issues related to construction' pacts, design with respect 5 to traffic and parking, redevelopment impacts and design aesthetics" and "obtain c unity input on LRT in the 6 Central Corridor with respect to the aforementioned issues, evaluate the previo s positions of the City on LRT 7 development, and consider making specific recommendations on LRT develo ent in Saint Paul;" and 10 11 WHEREAS, the Planning Commission only found that signific t changes due to improved technology made � University Avenue an option for light rail transit, reported those dings with conclusions and recommendations in report entitled Light Rail Transz� an Jniversity Avenue: A view of the Potential; and 14 WHEREAS, the Ramsey County Regional Rail Authority 'll be undertaking a major study ofthe Central Corridor 15 beginning next year that will include consideration of tential alignments; and 16 WHEREAS, development policy adopted by this Co cil in the Saint Paul Comprehensive Plan establishes a priority 17 for the Central Corridor Options linking the two,downtowns for major new transit; and 18 WHEREAS, it is important to ccc�u..ue to Yeview altemative alignments cazefully and continue to clazify our 19 intentions concerning potential lig�it rail development in order to participate appropriately in regional decisions. 1'� 20 RESOLVED, that the Saint Paul City Council accepts the report entitled Light Rail ' ' " Avenue: 21 A Review of the Potential dated November, 1999• and • �� r UMfbCN'St 22 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVEB,'that the 23 behalf of the Ciry in the studg. of light raii continue to participate as appropriate on 2� � RTH r ,�a e City Council requests that the Ramsey County Regional Rail Autho� 26 include considera�n o ' in their srixdy of the central corridor, and �� 4ttyfXS1� �VCUlU. � E IT FURTHE , t the City Council thanks the Planning Commission and the citizens and rganizations who participated in the study. � � i � Requested by Department of. Adoprion Certified by Council Secretary By: Approved by Mayor: Date By: � Form Approved by Ciry Attorney � Approved by Mayor for Submission to Council By: Adopted by Council: Date -A,,r�,a ��, — � �. �� ( �� RESOLUTION CITY OF SQINT PAUL,�NNESOTA Presented Referred To Council File # �,q, —\( G � Green Sheet # 1 D 4 �► 9 Committee Date 1 WHEREAS, major improvements in public transit planned and anticipated far the region will undoubtedly have a 2 significant impact on the future development of Saint Paul and its neighborhoods; and WHEREAS, the Saint Paul City Council requested that the Planuing Commission "analyze LRT and other transit alternatives in the Central Corridor, and evaluate specific issues related to construcrion impacts, design with respect to traffic and parking, redevelopment impacts and design aesthetics" and "obtain community input on LRT in the Central Corridor with respect to the aforementioned issues, evaluate the previous positions of the City on LRT development, and consider making specific recommendations on LRT development in Saint Paul;" and .. : ' - �r• � � . .--. - . -. -� . --.. .� - ' -.: � .. • .. .. - - - .. - � - 1 . - . .- � - - 11 WIIEREAS, the Planning Commission only found that significant changes due to improved technology made 12 University Avenue an option for light rail transit, reported those findings with conclusions and recommendations in 13 a report entitled Light Rail Transit on University Avenue: A Review of the Potential; and 14 WHEREAS, the Raznsey County Regional Rail Authority will be undertaking amajor study ofthe Central Corridor 15 beginning next year that will include consideration of potential alignments; and 16 WHEREAS,developmentpolicyadoptedbythisCouncilintheSaintPaulComprehensivePlanestablishesapriarity 17 for the Central Corridor Options linking the two downtowns for major new transit; and 18 WHEREAS, it is important to continue to review alternative alignments carefuJly and continue to clarify our 19 intentions concerning potential light rail development in order to participate appropriately in regional decisions. 20 RESOLVED, that the Saint Paul City Council accepts the report entitled Light Rail Transit on University Avenue: 21 A Review of the Potential dated November, 1999; and or. l�.r�;v �cs:�- Av ev�v.e.' 22 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Ci ouncil requests that PED continue to participate as appropriate on 23 behalf of the City in the study of light rail 24 ' , 25 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the City Council requests that the Ramsey County Regional Rail Authority� 26 include consideration of��m�ents in their study of the central corridor, and onl� �a."vc.�s �� Av �n�.� 27 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the City Council thanks the Planning Commission and the citizens and 28 arganizations who participated in the study. �� -�t�y Requested by Departrnent oE � Form Approved by City Attomey � Adoption Certifled by Council Secretary Approved by Mayor for Submission to Council By: " Approved b fayt�: Date �� 1�?�� By: �� l'� v�/�� AdoptedbyCouncil: Date �� , � \qq� i �`t —��c,y Council 11 GREEN SHEET i�ume. Ic.L. . ,•. a: No 104491 Hre� [- : F- � '� � F � , ❑ 'UIYI1TiO11IEY TOTAL # OF SIGNATURE PAGES � RIYYJI1LtFR111CFY0R. ❑ Ii11111GLiER11/I{CR6 MYOItI��lllf) ❑ (CLJP ALL LOCATIONS FOR SIGNATURE) Accepting the report entitled "Light Rail Transit on University Avenue: A Review of the Potential" and requesting the Department of Planning & Economic Development to continue to participate on behalf of the City in the study of light rail alignments underway by Ramsey County and include consideration of all light rail transit options in the Central Corridor, and requesting that the Ramsey County Regional Rail Authority include consideration of potential alignments in their study of the Central Corridor. w PUINNING COMMISSION CIB CAMMITTEE CIVIL SERVICE CAMMISSION IFAPPROVED IF APPROVED IF NOT �Y) AMOUNT OF TRANSACTION t MFORMATON (IXPWN) Has tnis a�rm ever warked under a cantract f« this deparlmem? VES NO Hes Mfe pereoMrm aver heen e city empbyce7 YES NO Doec Mis peisoMm� P� a sldN ro[ normallYO� bY anY curreM city emWoyee? VES NO Is tlus peieonnrfirm e taryMed vendoR YES NO COST/REVENUE BUDOETED (GRCLE ONE) ACTNITY NUMBER �3 NO DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Brian Sweeney, Director ,�+, l y.9 ,i� .�� R0. -��y CTTY OF SAII�IT PAUL Norm Ca(eman, Mayor 2i West Four7h Street Saint Pau[, � 55102 Telephone: 651 d 66-6655 Facsimile: 657-2283314 R LV� Memorandum To: From: Date: Re: City Council Member Jerry Blakey Tom Harren A1 Lovejoy Joel Spoonheim 23. November 1999 Planning Commission LRT Study .� .._ . 'r�rai � R4A .. . � � Summary This memo is to clarify the scope of the Planning Commission's recent study on LRT. The decision not to include a significant discussion regazding alignments on I-94 and the Great Northern Corridor was the result of narrowing the scope of the study. While the study concentrated on University Avenue, this was done with the understanding that LRT remains feasible in the I-94 and Great Northern corridors. The Commission found that technology and other changes in recent years could now allow LRT to work well on University Avenue and that it could have significant potential economic development impact. Background On November 10, 1999 you were presented the Planning Commission's recently completed study Light Rail Transit on Universiry Avenue: A Review of the Potential. This study was requested by the City Council to aid in your decision and recommendations to the Metropolitan Council and State Legislature as they debate the future of LRT in the east metro. We reviewed the earlier studies of LRT and consulted experts from around the nation regarding the three key alignments. Based on this research we reported to the Commission that building LRT on I-94 and in the Great Northem Corridor remains feasible as was concluded in eazlier studies. Furthermore, there is no reason to expect that the conclusions of the 1994 analysis of economic development potential for an I-94 alignment have changed. We were advised to research the impact that new technologies and better understanding of transit related development could have for University Avenue. As the Planning Commission report states, new technologies address some of the issues that created major problems for building LRT on University Avenue. Parking and four lanes of traffic can now be retained for most the Avenue. Stations are less obtrusive and fit into the built environment. Noise of trains is minimal due to new rail technology. Construction times are shorter than in eazlier years, thus disrupting ��l —��c�y commerce less. Additionally, the consultants indicated that the economic development impacts of LRT would likely be greatest on an urban street corridor such as University. This issue was not well understood or documented in earlier studies. With this information, the Planning Commission determined that their study should focus on University Avenue where new information could impact previous decisions. The study presented to you explains the impact of new technology and information for University Avenue and concludes that this alignment is feasible. H.\SharetnSpoonhe��I.RTwuncd ll _I9_99.wpd FILE No.441 11i19 '99 AM 10�47 ID�MIDWAY CHAMBER rHX�b51 b4b C�ar rHUc �� —l\c�y ItECOM1�SENDATION Based on these key findings and the political climate that appears ready to embraca a University Avenue alignment, the Task Force recommends that the Midway Chember of Commarce endorse the fol(owing policy statement: University Avenue is the preferred route for LRT. University Avenue ie the epine connccting two major downtown areas; the University of 2vTinnesota; more than 50,000 workers in St. Paut's Midway alone; and one of the most densely populated residemiai communities in the rogion. In addition, University Avetrua enjoys the highest trensit ridership in the region, and has a right-of-way that can essily accommodate LRT. Finally, University Avenue is home to a regional shopping area and an increasing number of high density office uses. Locating LRT en busy and important commarcial straets allows for the greatest positive economic devatopn,ant impact and sarves tha greatast transit need. 2. 'Che impact of constructing the line on austing University Avenue businesses must be carefuUy and aggressively managed. All businesses must be consulted early in the planning and construction process to discover special needs. The City must prepare a small business suppoR plan to assist existing businesses that are especially vulnerabte to the disruption caused by the LRT constn. ,.��6.. We strongly urge that new LRT technologies (LRT light) be carefully considered so as to minimize the impact of construction on existing businesses. Access to exisGng businesses must be preservad during and aftar construction and on-straet and/or off-street parking must be available for txisting businesses during and afier construction. Design of left turn options must also be carefuliy considered to protact the interest of existing businesses. University Avenue LRT sfiouid includa a$50 million dadicated economic development fund for University Avenue that focuses ^� moderate density office and housing development; retains light industrial m aufacturing businesses adjacent to the Avenue; supports existing regional shopping �ses; and protects the burgeoning Asian businesa community on the east and of the Avenue. 4. The design of LRT on University Avenue should make the street more pedestrian-fiiendty and enhance the streetscape through Iandscaping, street furniture, etc. to add to tha aesthetics of the area. S. LRT must be part of a lerger inveetment and re-design of the public transit system secving the Central Corridor. Bus service on University Avenue must be re-designed to retain high quality (ocal servica and bus scrvice on north/south streets must be expanderl end enhanced. b. The next regional priority for LAT investment shou]d be University Avenue. This corridor hes the strongest potential ridership and the presents the greatest aconomic development benefits. __ ---_ --- __ _ _ _ � Nancy Anderson Council Fiie 99 1164 � �� _. _ �_. __ __ __ _,. _ _ ,_ __ _ . Page,1 From: To: Date: Subject: Nancy Anderson Council 12/7/99 2:15PM Council File 99-1164 a3Q �q_ rl�y Councilmembers: C.F. 99-1164 (LRT) was inadvertently left off of the Council Agenda for tomorrow, December 8. This resolution was brought in under suspension on November 24 by Councilmember Blakey and laid over to December 8, as a discussion item. Therefore, I am notifying you of this additional item on tomorrow's agenda. Copies of the resolution will be distributed and delivered to your offices this afternoon. CC: Byrne, Phil; Lovejoy, Allen Council File # gg�� RESOLUTION �Presented Referred To CITY OF Green Sheet # � � ►-� 1� q ESOTA Committee Date i WHEREAS, maj or improvements in public transit planned and anticipated for the region will un oubtedly have a 2 significant impact on the future development of Saint Paul and its neighborhoods; and 3 Wf�REAS, the Saint Paul City Council requested that the Planning Commission "anal e LRT and other transit 4 altematives in the Central Corridor, and evaluate specific issues related to construction' pacts, design with respect 5 to traffic and parking, redevelopment impacts and design aesthetics" and "obtain c unity input on LRT in the 6 Central Corridor with respect to the aforementioned issues, evaluate the previo s positions of the City on LRT 7 development, and consider making specific recommendations on LRT develo ent in Saint Paul;" and 10 11 WHEREAS, the Planning Commission only found that signific t changes due to improved technology made � University Avenue an option for light rail transit, reported those dings with conclusions and recommendations in report entitled Light Rail Transz� an Jniversity Avenue: A view of the Potential; and 14 WHEREAS, the Ramsey County Regional Rail Authority 'll be undertaking a major study ofthe Central Corridor 15 beginning next year that will include consideration of tential alignments; and 16 WHEREAS, development policy adopted by this Co cil in the Saint Paul Comprehensive Plan establishes a priority 17 for the Central Corridor Options linking the two,downtowns for major new transit; and 18 WHEREAS, it is important to ccc�u..ue to Yeview altemative alignments cazefully and continue to clazify our 19 intentions concerning potential lig�it rail development in order to participate appropriately in regional decisions. 1'� 20 RESOLVED, that the Saint Paul City Council accepts the report entitled Light Rail ' ' " Avenue: 21 A Review of the Potential dated November, 1999• and • �� r UMfbCN'St 22 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVEB,'that the 23 behalf of the Ciry in the studg. of light raii continue to participate as appropriate on 2� � RTH r ,�a e City Council requests that the Ramsey County Regional Rail Autho� 26 include considera�n o ' in their srixdy of the central corridor, and �� 4ttyfXS1� �VCUlU. � E IT FURTHE , t the City Council thanks the Planning Commission and the citizens and rganizations who participated in the study. � � i � Requested by Department of. Adoprion Certified by Council Secretary By: Approved by Mayor: Date By: � Form Approved by Ciry Attorney � Approved by Mayor for Submission to Council By: Adopted by Council: Date