HomeMy WebLinkAbout2023-12-21 Meeting PacketAgenda
Transportation Commission
City Of Edina, Minnesota
City Hall - Community Room
Thursday, December 21, 2023
6:00 PM
I.Call To Order
II.Roll Call
III.Approval Of Meeting Agenda
IV.Approval Of Meeting Minutes
A.Draft Minutes: November 16, 2023
V.Community Comment
During "Community Comment," the Board/Commission will invite residents to share relevant issues
or concerns. Individuals must limit their comments to three minutes. The Chair may limit the
number of speakers on the same issue in the interest of time and topic. Generally speaking, items
that are elsewhere on tonight's agenda may not be addressed during Community Comment.
Individuals should not expect the Chair or Board/Commission Members to respond to their
comments tonight. Instead, the Board/Commission might refer the matter to sta% for
consideration at a future meeting.
VI.Reports/Recommendations
A.Tra(c Safety Report of December 13, 2023
B.Pedestrian Crossing Policy Review
C.Bicycle Network Planning for Bikes as Transportation
D.France Avenue Corridor Review
E.2023 Work Plan Updates
F.Organized Trash Collection Discussion
VII.Chair And Member Comments
VIII.Sta4 Comments
A.2023 ETC Accomplishments
IX.Adjournment
The City of Edina wants all residents to be comfortable being part of the public
process. If you need assistance in the way of hearing ampli7cation, an
interpreter, large-print documents or something else, please call 952-927-8861
72 hours in advance of the meeting.
Date: December 21, 2023 Agenda Item #: IV.A.
To:Transportation Commission Item Type:
Minutes
From:Andrew Scipioni, Transportation Planner
Item Activity:
Subject:Draft Minutes: November 16, 2023 Action
CITY OF EDINA
4801 West 50th Street
Edina, MN 55424
www.edinamn.gov
ACTION REQUESTED:
Approve the minutes of November 16, 2023 regular meeting.
INTRODUCTION:
See attached draft minutes.
ATTACHMENTS:
Description
Draft Minutes: Nov. 16, 2023
Draft Minutes☒
Approved Minutes☐
Approved Date:
Minutes
City Of Edina, Minnesota
Transportation Commission
City Hall Community Room
November 16, 2023
I. Call To Order
Chair Lewis called the meeting to order at 6:01 p.m.
II. Roll Call
Answering roll call: Commissioners Bildsten, Brown, Johnson, Olson, Plumb-Smith, Rubenstein, Wright,
Lewis
Late: Commissioners McCarthy, Karoussos
Absent: Commissioner Donnelly
Staff present: Transportation Planner Andrew Scipioni
Commissioner Karoussos arrived at 6:03.
III. Approval of Meeting Agenda
Motion was made by Commissioner Bildsten and seconded by Commissioner Wright to
approve the agenda with an amendment to add Item VI. F Organized Trash Collection. All
voted aye. Motion carried.
IV. Approval of Meeting Minutes
Motion was made by Commissioner Johnson and seconded by Brown to approve the October
26, 2023 meeting minutes. All voted aye. Motion carried.
V. Community Comment
Jeannette Gadeberg, 5424 France Avenue, testified about Item B4 on the Traffic Safety Report of October 31,
2023. Gadeberg shared concerns that cars don’t stop for pedestrians when the lights are flashing and
requested the return of the in-street pedestrian signs. Gadeberg encouraged Commissioners to see the
situation for themselves any day after 3:30 pm or Saturday mornings, and suggested that the 50th & France
District be given special consideration in the City’s pedestrian crossing policy.
Commissioner McCarthy arrived at 6:09.
Joe Whetstone, 6130 Beard Place, testified about Item B5 on the Traffic Safety Report of October 31, 2023.
Whetstone noted that the City narrowed the streets in the neighborhood a few years ago, creating hardship
for residents. When cars are parked on both sides, the street effectively becomes a one-way street.
Whetstone shared concerns about emergency vehicle access and noted the limited parking at the Strachauer
Park surface lot. Whetstone requested temporary no-parking signs during soccer season.
Commissioner McCarthy left at 6:21.
Draft Minutes☒
Approved Minutes☐
Approved Date:
VI. Reports/Recommendations
A. Traffic Safety Report of October 31, 2023
The Commission reviewed and commented on the Traffic Safety Report of October 31, 2023.
• Item B3: Request to slow traffic on Eden Avenue west of Arcadia Avenue roundabout
Motion was made by Commissioner Lewis and seconded by Commissioner
Rubenstein to recommend placing a speed limit sign facing westbound traffic
between the roundabout and the CP Rail bridge. All voted aye. Motion carried.
Commissioner McCarthy returned at 6:25.
• Item B5: Request for parking restrictions on Beard Place
Motion was made by Commissioner McCarthy and seconded by Commissioner
Wright to recommend one-sided parking on Beard Place north of W 62nd
Street.
Motion was amended by Commission McCarthy and seconded by
Commissioner Lewis to also recommend that staff evaluate on-street
parking on W 62nd Street. All voted aye. Motion carried.
All voted aye. Motion carried.
B. France Avenue Corridor Review
The Commission reviewed and commented on the draft France Avenue Corridor Review report.
Commissioner Lewis left at 7:23.
Commissioner Lewis returned at 7:28.
Commissioner Karoussos left at 7:54.
Commissioner Karoussos returned at 7:56.
C. Boulevard Tree Planting
The Commission reviewed and commented on the draft Boulevard Tree Planting report.
Commissioner Johnson left at 8:06.
Commissioner Johnson returned at 8:09.
Motion was made by Commissioner Lewis and seconded by Commissioner Bildsten to approve
the Boulevard Tree Planting report with edits. All voted aye. Motion carried.
D. Response to Community Comment
The Commission reviewed and commented on draft handout language and suggested edits from staff.
Motion was made by Commissioner Bildsten and seconded by Commissioner McCarthy to
approve the Response to Community Comment handout with staff edits. All voted aye. Motion
carried.
Draft Minutes☒
Approved Minutes☐
Approved Date:
E. 2023 Work Plan Updates
• #1 Pedestrian Crossing Policy Review – Subcommittee will present a draft report at
the next meeting.
• #2 Bicycle Network Planning for Bikes as Transportation – Subcommittee will
present a draft report at the next meeting.
• #3 France Avenue Corridor Review – Commission reviewed draft report.
Subcommittee will update the report and present at the next meeting for approval.
• #4 Boulevard Tree Planting – Commission approved final report.
• #5 Cahill Small Area Plan – Completed.
• #6 Parking – Subcommittee met this week, next meeting is scheduled for January 9.
• #7 Response to Community Comments – Commission approved handout language.
F. Organized Trash Collection
The Commission discussed the Energy & Environment Commission’s recent advisory
communication on organized trash collection and staff’s upcoming presentation to City Council.
Motion was made by Commissioner Lewis and seconded by Commission Plumb-Smith
to approve an advisory communication to City Council on the topic of organized trash
collection. All voted aye. Motion carried.
VII. Chair and Member Comments – Received.
VIII. Staff Comments
A. 2024 Work Plan Update
Liaison Scipioni provided an update on the 2024 work plan development process.
IX. Adjournment
Motion was made by Commissioner Johnson and seconded by Commissioner Plumb-Smith to
adjourn the November 16, 2023 regular meeting at 8:51 p.m. All voted aye. Motion carried.
Draft Minutes☒
Approved Minutes☐
Approved Date:
TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION ATTENDANCE
J F M A M J J A S O N D # of Mtgs Attendance %
Meetings 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 11
SEAT NAME
1 Wright, Grant 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 9 100%
2 Rubenstein, Tricia 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 9 82%
3 Bildsten, Roger 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 9 100%
4 Lewis, Andy 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 10 91%
5 Johnson, Kirk 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 8 73%
6 Brown, Chris 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 9 82%
7 Olson, Bethany 1 1 1 1 4 80%
8 McCarthy, Bruce 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 8 73%
9 Plumb-Smith, Jill 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 9 82%
10 Donnelly, Sam (s) 1 1 33%
11 Karoussos, Evangelia (s) 1 1 2 67%
Date: December 21, 2023 Agenda Item #: VI.A.
To:Transportation Commission Item Type:
Report and Recommendation
From:Nick Bauler, Traffic Safety Coordinator
Item Activity:
Subject:Traffic Safety Report of December 13, 2023 Discussion
CITY OF EDINA
4801 West 50th Street
Edina, MN 55424
www.edinamn.gov
ACTION REQUESTED:
Review and comment on the Traffic Safety Report of December 13, 2023.
INTRODUCTION:
See attached staff report and supporting material.
Comments received by the Commission will be included in the staff report provided to City Council at their
January 2, 2024 regular meeting.
ATTACHMENTS:
Description
Traffic Safety Report of December 13, 2023
December 21, 2023
Traffic Safety Committee
Nick Bauler, Traffic Safety Coordinator
Traffic Safety Report of December 13, 2023
Information / Background:
The Traffic Safety Committee (TSC) review of traffic safety matters occurred on December 13. The Traffic
Safety Coordinator, City Engineer, Streets Public Service Worker, Transportation Planner, Police Sergeant,
Public Works Director and Assistant City Planner were in attendance for this meeting. The Transportation
Planner was not able to attend but was informed of the decisions.
On each of the items, persons involved have been contacted and the staff recommendation has been
discussed with them. They were informed that if they disagree with the recommendation or have additional
facts to present, they can submit correspondence to the Transportation Commission and/or to City Council
prior to the January 10 regular meeting.
Section A: Items on which the Traffic Safety Committee recommends action
A1. Non-compliance at all-way stop control at Gleason Rd and Scotia Dr.
Staff recommends moving the northbound advanced
warning sign closer to Scotia Dr.
Description Requestor notices many vehicles failing to stop.
Interested in enforcement, increasing visibility of
signs, speed bumps and improving street lighting.
AADT 2,400 (Gleason 2019)
85% Speed N/A
Crashes One rear-end collision of northbound vehicles,
north of Scotia.
Sight Lines Adequate
Previous Request Added advanced crosswalk RRFB visible for
eastbound vehicles approaching from Vernon
Avenue.
Unique
Circumstances
Gleason was overlaid in 2020.
Gleason Rd at Scotia Dr
STAFF REPORT Page 2
A2. Review previous request for improved crossing treatments at Pamela Park entrance from W 62nd St.
Staff recommends upgrading the crosswalk signs on
W 62nd St to RRFBs to match crossing treatment on
W 58th St.
A3. Review crosswalk over Halifax Ave, north of W 50th St.
Staff recommends installing crosswalk signage on the west side of Halifax.
Description Concerns include drivers failing to stop for
pedestrians.
ADT 2,550 (W 62nd St 2021)
1700 (W 58th St 2013)
85% Speed 34.0 mph (W 62nd 2017)
33.5 mph (W 58th 2019)
Crashes One in 2021- exiting park, run off road.
Ped and Bike
Crosses
W 62nd: 51 Bikes, 166 Peds, Peak hour 33 at 1:30-
2:30 PM. Exceeds 20 crosses at six different hours
(6/9/2022)
W 58th: 53 Bikes, 392 Peds, Peak hour 171 at 5:45-
6:45 PM. Exceeds 20 crosses 5 different hours
(5/24/2023)
Sight Lines Adequate
Previous
Requests
Nearby request for all-way stop at Brookview Ave-
200’ west, did not meet warrants. Request to
improve crosswalk, led to double-sided signs
increasing awareness of crossing.
Policy
Guideline
Existing crosswalk treatment complies with city
policy.
Unique
Circumstances
Shared-use path on south side of W 62nd connects
to path entering Pamela Park. Park entrance on
north side off W 58th St has RRFBs.
Previous Staff
Review
Recommended comparing crossing volumes between
W 62nd and W 58th at Pamela Park entrances.
Description Crosswalk markings are present, but roadside signs
have been removed due to damage.
ADT 4,370 (2021)
85% Speed N/A
Crashes One in last ten years (2020)
Ped and Bike
Crosses
87 total crosses;
Peak hour of 19 at 11:45-12:45
Sight Lines Adequate
Previous
Requests
Complaints regarding traffic management at 50th St
and Halifax Ave
Policy
Guideline
Pedestrian Crossing Policy: Minimum pedestrian
volume is 20 pedestrians per hour. Observed
volume is one less than warrant.
Crosswalk is <300’ from marked crossing at 50th St.
Policy recommends directing pedestrians to nearest
marked crossing.
Unique
Circumstances
50th & France is an area of high pedestrian activity.
New sidewalk panels installed on west side of Halifax
in 2023.
W 62nd St at Pamela Park Entrance
W 58th St at Pamela Park Entrance
Halifax Ave crosswalk at woonerf entrance
STAFF REPORT Page 3
Section B: Items on which the Traffic Safety Committee recommends no action
B1. Request to improve stop sign visibility at Vernon Ave and Arctic Way / Tamarac Ave.
Staff recommends no action as stop signs on Vernon have adequate visibility.
B2. Request for all-way stop controls at Morningside Rd and Crocker Ave.
Staff recommends no action as all-way stop controls
do not meet volume or crash warrants.
B3. Request for all-way stop controls at W 62nd St and Virginia Ave.
Staff recommends no action as all-way stop controls
do not meet volume or crash warrants.
Description Resident is concerned drivers on Vernon Ave
don’t stop at off-set intersection. Requesting
stop signs in median to increase awareness.
ADT 3,245 (2023)
85% Speed 34.6 mph (2023)
Crashes One in 2021- westbound distracted driver hit
median signposts west of Arctic Way.
Sight Lines Traveling eastbound, crosswalk sign visibility
impacted due to vegetation and location of
sign.
Previous Request Request for RRFBs to improve crossing
safety. Council approved recommendation of
no action.
Unique
Circumstances
Intersection is offset 50 feet with Tamarac.
Overlay project completed in summer 2023.
Two- 50’ medians on Vernon.
Description Resident concerned with vehicles speeding on
Morningside between Hopkins and France Ave.
ADT 1318 (Morningside 2020)
85% Speed 29.6 MPH (Morningside 2020)
Crashes None at intersection.
Sight Lines Adequate
Previous Request Morningside- removal of advanced stop sign for
eastbound traffic.
Unique
Circumstances
Only stop control on Morningside is at Grimes.
Recommendation All-way stop controls are not warranted.
Description Requester cites speeding vehicles in area and is
requesting all-way stop controls to be installed.
ADT 88 (Virginia 2017)
42 (W 62nd 2017)
85% Speed 23.1 MPH (Virginia 2017)
20.9 MPH (W 62nd 2017)
Crashes None at intersection.
Sight Lines Vegetation at southwest corner. Warrants current
east/west stop controls.
Previous Request N/A
Recommendation All-way stop controls are not warranted.
Vernon Ave facing east towards Arctic Way
Morningside Rd at Crocker Ave
W 62nd St at Virginia Ave
STAFF REPORT Page 4
Section D: Other traffic safety items handled
D1. A resident was concerned with vehicle speeds on Alden Dr within the Morningside neighborhood and
Xerxes Ave, south of HWY 62. The Police Department was requested to use the mobile speed trailer or
targeted enforcement.
D2. A resident noted northbound drivers failing to stop at the intersection of Valley View Rd and McCauley
Tr. Stop signs are visible for the northbound approach and the EPD was requested for enforcement.
D3. A resident noted a missing stop sign during a construction project at W 72nd St at Cornelia Dr. The
intersection was reviewed and all stop signs were present.
D4. A resident was concerned with walking along Tracy Ave in the Heights neighborhood. The resident was
advised to submit a petition to Council for construction of a sidewalk.
D5. A resident requested a crosswalk to be reinstalled over W 42nd St at Alden Dr. This crosswalk is
anticipated to be reinstalled next spring prior to the completion of the nearby Morningside neighborhood
street reconstruction project.
D6. A resident requested a crosswalk over Vermon Ave at Schaefer Rd. Hennepin County staff was
informed of this request as crosswalk markings on Vernon Ave requires review from the County.
D7. A complaint was submitted regarding broken glass on Interlachen Blvd. Upon a site visit, the glass was
removed.
D8. A resident requested intersection control changes at Tracy Ave and the westbound HWY 62 exit ramp
intersection. Any intersection changes made here need review by MnDOT. MnDOT staff has been notified
of the concern for further consideration.
D9. A request was made for all-way stop controls at W 58th St and Xerxes Ave citing impacted sight lines
when parking on Xerxes is present and the hill on the western approach being slippery during the winter.
Public Works was notified of the slippery conditions and all-way stop controls are not warranted, but were
passed along to Hennepin County staff.
D10. A resident requested signage for unsafe bicyclists using the Ninemile Creek Regional Trail boardwalk
bordering Minnetonka. NCRT staff is reviewing the use of such signage along the path.
D11. A resident in the Morningside neighborhood had concerns about on-street parking issues prior to the
2022 street reconstruction project. Following the project, the concerns have been resolved.
Date: December 21, 2023 Agenda Item #: VI.B.
To:Transportation Commission Item Type:
Report and Recommendation
From:Andrew Scipioni, Transportation Planner
Item Activity:
Subject:Pedestrian Crossing Policy Review Action
CITY OF EDINA
4801 West 50th Street
Edina, MN 55424
www.edinamn.gov
ACTION REQUESTED:
Approve the draft Pedestrian Crossing Policy Review.
INTRODUCTION:
See attached draft report.
ATTACHMENTS:
Description
Draft Pedestrian Crossing Policy Review
City of Edina • 4801 W. 50th St. • Edina, MN 55424
Transportation Commission
Date: December 21, 2023
To: Mayor and City Council
Cc: Andrew Scipioni, Transportation Planner
From: Transportation Commission
Subject: Pedestrian Crossing Policy Review
Initiative
Review and recommend changes to Edina’s existing pedestrian crossing policy.
Recommendation
The recommendation for consideration directs staff to accomplish the following by December 31, 2024,
either internally or with consultant assistance via adequate funding provided by the City Council.
• Update the city’s existing pedestrian crossing policy to better align with the latest infrastructure
guidance, produce a process that transparently creates results for community members based upon
a procedure that does not solely rely upon arbitrary volume thresholds, and achieves the city’s
approved planning documents to increase active transportation in Edina.
• Produce a quantitative and easily replicable framework to proactively identify the highest need
areas for pedestrian crossing improvements and integrate those into existing city implementation
processes. This proactive approach should coincide with better planning for grants, integration into
development proposals, and other relevant opportunities.
Background
Safe, comfortable, and accessible crossings in Edina for people walking, rolling, and biking is critical to
interconnecting the city’s growing network of sidewalk, bikeways, and shared use paths. Nearly each
month, the Edina Transportation Commission (ETC) fields community correspondence concerning
crossings that are perceived as unsafe due to vehicle speeds, driver stop compliance, and inadequate
infrastructure. Edina’s first, and existing, crossing policy was adopted in February 2018 as an appendix to
the Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan. The policy includes the following:
• Uncontrolled Pedestrian Crossing Location Treatment Flowchart: Through a series of
quantitative and qualitative measures, determines if a crossing is recommended or not
recommended.
• Decision Guide for Crossing Treatments: A matrix of treatment options for a crossing
location based upon the roadway configuration, traffic volumes, and vehicle speed.
Improving pedestrian crossings is further supported by the city’s existing documents including the Climate
Action Plan, Comprehensive Plan, Living Streets Plan, and Safe Routes to School studies, among others. To
fulfill the actions identified in these plans for creating spaces where people can safely and conveniently walk
and bike, a clear policy document with the latest best practices must be available for staff to implement.
Page 2
City of Edina • 4801 W. 50th St. • Edina, MN 55424
Pedestrian Crossing Guidance
To understand local, state, and national best practices, studies, and guidance,
publicly available materials were reviewed. Key documents are synthesized at a
high-level and warrant further analysis by city staff and/or future consultants
updating the city’s policy (see Table 1). Note, this list is not exhaustive and could change as additional
research is performed or new guidance is released.
Table 1. Research, Studies, and Guidance Synthesis
Report Name Author Background Relevance
Federal
Guide for
Improving
Pedestrian Safety
at Uncontrolled
Crossing Locations
(2018)
Federal
Highway
Admini-
stration
Organizes an analysis approach of pedestrian crossings
which includes: 1) collect data and perform public
engagement, 2) inventory existing conditions and
prioritize locations, 3) analyze crash history, types, and
safety issues, 4) select crossing countermeasures, 5)
consult design and installation resources, and 6) identify
opportunities and monitor outcomes.
The report also includes guidance, definitions of crossing
infrastructure treatments, and helpful background on
data collection and inventorying best practices.
The guidance document includes
a countermeasure table with
suggested crossing treatment
improvements per the roadway
configuration, speed, and traffic
volume at the point of crossing.
This table formulates the
foundation of crossing guidance
nationwide and was used as a
key reference.
Application for
Pedestrian
Crossing
Treatments for
Streets and
Highways (2016)
National
Cooperative
Highway
Research
Program
Provides a synthesis of crossing guidance for cities,
counties, and state departments of transportation to
identify synergies between them. Though six years old, a
thorough description of crossing infrastructure
treatments, background, and summary of the impacts of
each are provided and still relevant.
Foundational information for
crossing treatment guidance and
the quantitative safety impact of
each.
Human Factors
Assessment of
Pedestrian
Behavior (2014)
Federal
Highway
Admini-
stration
A total of 20 locations were studied across the United
States and modeled using results from the analysis. It showed that drivers were more likely to yield to
pedestrians in a marked crosswalk versus an unmarked
location where the yielding was split between vehicle-
for-pedestrian and pedestrian-for-vehicle. Research also
showed that the design of the crossing and presence of
barriers, even low plantings, can significantly alter how
and where pedestrians cross within the intersection
(unmarked), a marked crossing, or mid-block.
Provides quantitative support for marked crosswalks within
strategic locations as a key
infrastructure enhancement.
Engineering considerations for
vertical and horizontal crossing
design to properly channelize
pedestrians.
Effects of Yellow
Rapid-Flashing
Beacons on
Yielding at
Multilane
Uncontrolled
Crossings (2010)
Federal
Highway
Admini-
stration
A total of 22 locations were studied over a two-year
period in three cities. Findings showed that RRFBs
increased yield compliance up to 88% as compared to
the previous condition without which was zero to 16%.
Reductions in yield compliance following the “novelty
effect” of drivers becoming used to them did not exist
and yield compliance remained high after two years.
Provides quantitative support
for RRFBs, specifically with
analysis over a multiyear period
to understand how compliance
is retained.
Safety Effects of
Marked Versus
Unmarked
Crosswalks (2002)
Federal
Highway
Admini-
stration
1,000 marked and 1,000 unmarked locations were
studied across the United States. The presence of only a
marked crosswalk at an uncontrolled location of a two-
lane roadway had no difference in the pedestrian crash
rate versus an unmarked crossing. On multi-lane roads
with traffic volumes above 12,000 vehicles per day, a
marked crosswalk alone resulted in a higher pedestrian
crash rate compared to an unmarked crossing. Crossing
Provides quantitative support
for strategic implementation of
marked crosswalks when
appropriately vetted and combined with other
infrastructure as appropriate.
Page 3
City of Edina • 4801 W. 50th St. • Edina, MN 55424
infrastructure enhancements reduced the rate overall.
Report Name Author Background Relevance
State
Best Practices for
Pedestrian and
Bicycle Safety
(2021)
Minnesota
Department
of Trans-
portation
This guide is intended to improve bicycle and pedestrian
safety on practitioner’s roadway networks. The proven
strategies include a mix of treatments that have been
used widely across Minnesota, as well as emerging,
experimental treatments per the FHWA.
Extensively used to identify
infrastructure improvements.
Assessing the
Impact of
Pedestrian-
Activated Crossing
Systems (2020)
Minnesota
Department
of Trans-
portation
A total of 31 crossing sites were studied across the state,
including pedestrian signals, pedestrian hybrid beacons
(PHB), rectangular rapid flashing beacons (RRFB), and
LED flashing signs. The roadways included those with
one to six lanes, posted speeds from 25 mph to 55 mph,
and vehicles per hour of 11 to 1,978. Yield rates
included: Signal (84-91%), PHB (64-95%), RRFB (25-
100%) (higher rate when paired with overhead signage),
and LED (33-88%). Good visibility, enhanced static signage, and advanced warning signage produced
satisfactory stop compliance if those four enhancements
are not warranted. RRFBs and LED signage also have the
positive effect of maintaining higher yield compliance
when not activated as opposed to PHBs and signals.
Key document displaying
research of pedestrian activated
crossing infrastructure across a
variety of roadway types,
volumes, and speeds in
Minnesota. Provided good
guidance and background for
crossing enhancements and
supported the need for
engineering judgement when
considering implementation of
such infrastructure.
Uncontrolled
Pedestrian
Crosswalk
Guidance (2020)
Minnesota
Local Road
Research
Board
Builds upon the FHWA’s uncontrolled crossing guidance
to produce crossing guidance for Minnesota
communities.
Used as a reference guide for
crossing enhancements.
Pedestrian
Crossings:
Uncontrolled
Locations (2014)
Minnesota
Local Road
Research
Board
Formulates data collection and crossing evaluation
procedures, as well as guidance for crossing
infrastructure treatments.
Used as a reference to
understand key data points and
crossing infrastructure.
Guidelines for Mid-
block Crossings
(2020)
Florida
Department
of Trans-
portation
Produces flowcharts and crossing guidance for Florida
communities.
Used as a reference to
understand key data points and
crossing infrastructure.
Driver Compliance
at Enhanced
Pedestrian
Crossings in Utah
(2019)
Utah Department
of Trans-
portation
A total of 17 crossings were studied across Utah and
included those with a PHB, RRFB, overhead RRFB
(ORRFB), and overhead flashing beacons (OFB). All
roadway crossings were five-lanes with posted speeds of
35 mph to 45 mph. Stop compliance for each included:
PHB (97%), OFB (77%), RRFB / ORRFB (57%).
Provides quantitative support
for such infrastructure
enhancements including RRFBs
and PHBs along higher speed,
multilane roadways.
Guide for In-Street
Pedestrian Signs
(2018)
Michigan
Department
of Trans-
portation
Studied in-street pedestrian sign effectiveness using a
variety of sign placement designs. A gateway treatment
produced the highest yield compliance, though this
design is dependent upon Minnesota standards. The signs
are most effective along roadways of ≤35 mph and
≤12,000 AADT. Roadways posted at 30 mph can
Provides quantitative support
for in-street pedestrian signs, to
understand stop compliance.
Page 4
City of Edina • 4801 W. 50th St. • Edina, MN 55424
accommodate greater AADT but may require additional
crossing enhancements. Stop compliance ranged from
35% to 95% depending upon number of lanes, traffic
volumes, and speed.
Report Name Author Background Relevance
Local
Pedestrian
Crossing
Guidelines
Dakota
County, MN
Produces a detailed process that builds upon the FHWA
STEP Guide and local research to produce a customized
process for the county. This includes a detailed multistep
process of flow chart, matrix, and geometric
considerations.
Used as a reference to produce
crossing guidance and
infrastructure treatments.
Pedestrian
Crossing
Guidelines
City of
Issaquah,
WA
Produces flowcharts and crossing guidance for the city.
Used as a reference to produce
crossing guidance and
infrastructure treatments.
Pedestrian
Crossing
Guidelines
Town of
Windsor,
CO
Produces flowcharts and crossing guidance for the city.
Uses the City of Boulder’s groundbreaking 2011
guidance document as a key foundational element.
Used as a reference to produce
crossing guidance and
infrastructure treatments.
The following key points were determined from this research:
• Edina’s existing policy does largely follow the process other agencies use though it does not
leverage the latest best practice and guidance for crossing infrastructure and treatments. Over the
last five years, pedestrian crossing treatments and associated guidance have exponentially increased
and the city’s policy should reflect that change through a thorough update to Edina’s Design Guide
for Crossing Treatments.
• The city’s policy is conservative compared to others, such as Dakota County, where roadways with
more lanes and higher volumes are eligible for more significant enhancements such as RRFBs,
specifically overhead RRFB signage that is not identified by the existing policy, as well as more
broadly considering in-street pedestrian signage.
• A stronger process that considers geometric changes (e.g., curb extensions, pedestrian refuge
islands, tighter curb radii, narrower lanes, etc.) in addition to signing and striping recommendations
found in the existing matrix is also important to holistically improve locations.
• Another significant flaw is the city’s reliance to focus crossing improvements only to where there is
demand that meets arbitrary volume thresholds. This runs counter to proactively implementing
crossing improvements in locations that are very unsafe because it should not be the expectation
that infrastructure only be implemented if people first take risks to document demand. It should
just be safe from the start based upon a variety of quantitative or qualitative factors.
Page 5
City of Edina • 4801 W. 50th St. • Edina, MN 55424
Proactive Pedestrian Crossing Planning
Edina does not have a proactive planning process for pedestrian crossing
enhancements. Instead, the city typically implemented improvements reactively
through community complaints, safety issues, new infrastructure (e.g., sidewalk,
trail, etc.) built as a part of the city’s limited annual existing capital projects, and/or new development.
Instead, the city should be proactively implementing improvements through a strong quantitative and
qualitative process. This could easily build off of exiting prioritization work already done to prioritize PACS
Fund projects. More importantly, quick build improvements (e.g., bollards, roadway striping, rubber curb,
etc.) should be more widely used in Edina, as other neighboring agencies do, to complete projects faster
while funding for a permanent project is secured.
Two planning documents were reviewed to understand what communities are doing to take a proactive
planning approach toward prioritizing crossing improvement projects in the areas that need it most
through existing or new project implementation processes (e.g., Edina Capital Improvement Plan).
• City of Lakeville, MN Lakeville has created a quantitative process based upon transportation
data (traffic volume, speed, crashes, etc.), destinations (schools, parks, transit, commercial areas,
and places with denser housing/employment), and equity (demographics) to prioritize places for
crossing improvements. The city intends to integrate this into their CIP process and use this to
better plan for grant applications.
• Clark County, WA: Clark County has a framework that prioritizes crossing improvements that
meet demand (demographics and land use), connectivity/accessibility, and safety (crossing risk and
crash history) criteria. The process integrates with the county’s Transportation Improvement
Program (TIP) and builds upon their pedestrian crossing policy to prioritize the locations with high
demand and risk for upgrades.
The City of Edina’s existing planning documents all touch on the importance of improving spaces within the
city’s transportation network for the most vulnerable users: people walking, rolling, and biking. By updating
the city’s crossing policy and creating tools to proactively implement crossing projects, Edina can:
• “Increase opportunities for public transit and active transportation to help address health
disparities for many at-risk populations.” Climate Action Plan
• “Improve the City’s non-motorized transportation system to facilitate pedestrian and bicycle
movement and increase active transportation.” Comprehensive Plan
• “Support city, resident and elected officials’ work and efforts to offer the highest quality of life and
best experience of their city to Edina residents, businesses, workers and visitors.” Pedestrian and
Bicycle Master Plan
Date: December 21, 2023 Agenda Item #: VI.C.
To:Transportation Commission Item Type:
Report and Recommendation
From:Andrew Scipioni, Transportation Planner
Item Activity:
Subject:Bicycle Network Planning for Bikes as
Transportation
Action
CITY OF EDINA
4801 West 50th Street
Edina, MN 55424
www.edinamn.gov
ACTION REQUESTED:
Approve draft Bicycle Network Planning for Bicycles as Transportation report.
INTRODUCTION:
See attached draft report.
ATTACHMENTS:
Description
Draft Bicyle Network Planning Report
Initiative:
Develop a priority list of high-traffic corridors and ideas for bike-friendly
improvements.
Background:
Under the guidance of the 2018 Proposed Bicycle Facilities Master Plan, this
initiative aligns with the objectives to enhance cyclist safety and support
multi-modal transportation within Edina’s Comprehensive Plan.
To aid in the process of creating a priority list, we’ve evaluated the progress
of the Proposed Bicycle Facilities Master Plan relative to the historical state
of Existing Bicycling Facilities maps.
Figures 1 shows that the majority of today’s bike lane network shares the
road with or is adjacent to motor vehicle traffic. When comparing Figure 1
with Figure 2, the Existing Bicycle Facilities Map of 2019, it appears that any
additions or improvements have been offset by the removal of bike facilities.
Figure 3 represents the most recent map of the Proposed Bicycle Facilities.
The bike network is significantly more developed and buffered bike lanes are
assigned to high traffic corridors. However, the 2023 proposed map is
virtually identical to the 2018 proposed map in Figure 4.
Potentially, for a variety of reasons, i.e. timing, funding or support, little to no
progress has been made in Edina’s Bicycling Network since the induction of
Edina’s 2018 Comprehensive Plan making it difficult to create a priority list
for bike-friendly improvements when there is no evidence that there is any
priority.
Were action to be taken in developing the Bicycle Network, this is what we
would suggest.
Factors considered in creating priority list:
•High-traffic corridors with NO bike lane designation, yet do
not deter bicyclists
•Areas that provide access to the commercial districts of 50th
and France, Southdale Mall and Grandview
•Roads eligible for MSA designated funds, Figure 5
•Exclusion: Hennepin County Roads, Figure 6
Street From To
Eden Ave Hwy 100 Vernon Ave S
Recommendations for bike-friendly improvements. Please
add the buffered bike lanes proposed in Figure 7:
Street From To
Valley View Road Hwy 62 France Ave S
Street From To
50th St West France Ave S Hwy 100
Buffered bike lanes are on-street facilities that offer a designated
space for bicycles and that are separated from motor-vehicle
travel lanes by a buffer distance.
Proposed Buffered Bike Lane
Figure 1: Existing Bicycle Facilities from 2022 Figure 2: Existing Facilities from 2019
Legend categorization:
Figure 3: Proposed Facilities from 2023 Figure 4: Proposed Facilities from 2018
Figure 5: MSA Streets Figure 6: Hennepin County Roads in Edina
Street From To
Eden Ave Hwy 100 Vernon Ave S
Recommendations for bike-friendly improvements:
Street From To
Valley View Road Hwy 62 France Ave S
Street From To
50th St West France Ave S Hwy 100
Figure 7: Existing and Proposed Bicycle Facilities 2023
These are roads that are definitively within the city's
direct control and purview, and not dependent on
federal, state, or county funds or approval.
Date: December 21, 2023 Agenda Item #: VI.D.
To:Transportation Commission Item Type:
Report and Recommendation
From:Andrew Scipioni, Transportation Planner
Item Activity:
Subject:France Avenue Corridor Review Action
CITY OF EDINA
4801 West 50th Street
Edina, MN 55424
www.edinamn.gov
ACTION REQUESTED:
Approve draft France Avenue Corridor Review report.
INTRODUCTION:
See attached draft report and presentation.
ATTACHMENTS:
Description
Draft France Avenue Corridor Review
France Avenue Corridor Review Presentation
City of Edina • 4801 W. 50th St. • Edina, MN 55424
Transportation Commission •
Date: December 16, 2023
To: Mayor and City Council
cc: Andrew Scipioni, Transportation Planner
From: Transportation Commission
Subject: France Avenue Corridor
Initiative
Review the safety, accessibility, and amenities along the existing France Avenue Transit Corridor
for pedestrians, bicyclists and transit riders between Minnesota Drive and Highway 62 (Southdale
District). Investigation will include site visits and review of similar case studies that promote non-
automobile transportation modes along similar scale roadways and will include input from key
stakeholders. Inquiry is in response to the Climate Action Plan and new parking ordinances.
Background
France Avenue, Hennepin County Road 17, stretches the length of Edina North to South. For the
purpose of this report, only the section of France Avenue from South of Highway 62 to Minnesota
Drive in the was examined. This portion of France Avenue runs through what is designated as the
Southdale District. This area of Edina is the most developed area of the City including M Health
Fairview Hospital, the Southdale Mall (opened in 1956 first fully enclosed climate-controlled mall in
America), the Galleria Edina, Westin Hotel, Centennial Lakes Park & Centennial Lakes Office Park,
and numerous other office, medical retail and housing development.
In the last decade the City of Edina has invested significant resources in studies and reports that
examine and acknowledge the City’s interest and commitment to improving non-vehicular
transportation. These include:
Living Streets Plan 2015
Pedestrian and Bike Master Plan, May 2018
Edina Comprehensive Plan 2018
Greater Southdale District Plan 2018
Greater Southdale District Design Experience Guidelines, March 2019
Page 2
City of Edina • 4801 W. 50th St. • Edina, MN 55424
Climate Action Plan, December 2021
Within each of these documents the City of Edina reconfirms its value for
non-vehicular modes of transport for its residents. In looking at the France
Avenue Corridor, considering these stated priorities, and guidelines, the existing conditions of
France Avenue, recent and upcoming development in the Southdale District and this Commission
has observed challenges and opportunities for the City to consider.
As previously stated, the Southdale District is the most densely developed are of the city. The
district also has increased residential density significantly in the last decade. The tablei below of
recent housing developments in the Southdale District illustrates the significant increase in housing
units in the Southdale District in the last decade; 2702 new units have come onto the market. This
considerable sum is only increasing. New development proposals currently under review for the
Southdale District include LifeTime Living and 70th and France which could add another 567 units
to the area.
Year Delivered Year Approved Development # Units # Affordable
2012 2012 Aurora on France 182 10
2012 2012 One Southdale 232 0
2013 2013 71 France 241 0
2013 2013 Yorkshire Senior Living 96 10
2014 2014 66 West 39 39
2015 2015 The Onyx 244 0
2019 2015 Aria 184 8
2021 2015 Millennium 227 11
2021 2019 The Bowers 185 0
2022 2020 The Sound on 76th 70 70
2023 2021 4040 Flats 118 118
2023 2021 Fred 1 408 0
2023 2021 Pentagon Apartments (The Eddi) 200 20
2022 The Finch (Solhem) 276 28
According to the 2020 Us Census, the Southdale District is home to more than 5000 residents
per square mile.ii As the population increase though planned development Edina has an
opportunity to improve the options for non-vehicular transportation.
Page 3
City of Edina • 4801 W. 50th St. • Edina, MN 55424
Observations
France Avenue lacks bike lanes so pedestrians, cyclists and transit riders all
must rely on the existing sidewalks for right out way along France Avenue.
The City of Edina Bike and Pedestrian Master Plan indicates a proposed bike
lane along France Avenue. Unfortunately, this bike lane is only actionable by Hennepin County.
Hennepin County has begun its reconstruction of France Avenue from American Boulevard in
Bloomington to W 76th Street in Edina. The construction plans do not include a bike lane on
France Avenue. An 8’ sidewalk will be installed between Minnesota Drive and W 76th Street. iii
The existing sidewalks along France Avenue are insufficient in scale, quality and safety to be
considered an appropriate non-vehicular transit corridor in the Southdale District. Currently the
sidewalk along the East side of France Avenue is considered a multiuse path. This 8’ wide sidewalk
has no signage identifying the path as multiuse. This path in some instance has significant physical
barriers and no landscape buffer as recommended in the GSDDEG. Along the West side of France
Avenue, the sidewalks are inconsistent, some crossings are dangerous and in some instances are
not ADA compliant. Hennepin County has a proposed ADA Sidewalk Transition Plan which
includes 104 sidewalk crossings that are not compliant and require improvement.iv
Metro Transit Bus riders have limited options in Edina. Currently seven bus routes operate in the
Southdale District and run through the Southdale Transit Station. Service to and from the district
will improve in efficiency and frequency when the new Metro Transit E Line replaces the Number
6 bus. This route will terminate /originate at the Southdale Transit Station much improving
commute times to downtown Minneapolis and the University of Minnesota beginning in 2025.v
The Southdale Transit Station will be relocated to W 66th Street as part of the LifeTime Living
project.vi The experience of transit riders on the E Line will be much improved, but the remaining
routes along France Avenue south of the new Transit Station lack amenities for riders as was
noted in the Greater Southdale District Plan.vii Some stops have only a bus sign, about half have a
single bench. These stops lack shelters, direct lighting, emergency communications, warning strips
and near level boarding for individuals with mobility challenges. The austere stop conditions are
an equity issue for the residents of the district. The E Line service and amenities in the north of
the Southdale District adjacent to planned luxury housing are very exciting, but there are no
proposed improvements in the South close to older and lower income housing developments.
The City of Edina Bike and Pedestrian Master Plan proposes paths and connections that would
make substantive improvements in the connectivity within the district, between the district and
greater Edina and the district and Bloomington and Richfield. Unfortunately, much of that plan
relies on future redevelopment of parcels along France Avenue. The City of Edina has invested
substantial resources in promenades on the East and West of France Avenue, but they are
recreational in nature.
Page 4
City of Edina • 4801 W. 50th St. • Edina, MN 55424
The Edina Promenade, north of Centennial Lakes Park is .75 miles long running between 70th
Street and Gallagher Drive. Bicycle use terminates there, and cyclists are expected continue riding
on the Mile Creek Path (East/West) or find their own way through the district.viii The West
Promenade, currently under construction, is an isolated segment. There are proposed plans to
extend it through the new development at 7200 France, but there are gaps in between. Without a
more actionable plan on the part of the city the West Promenade will remain recreational. If the
city wants residents to use non-vehicular transportation along France Avenue, then a more
substantive and actionable plan should be considered.
If the City of Edina would like to see their vision of more residents choosing non-vehicular
transportation come to fruition, then there needs to be a better understanding of bicycles as
transportation versus recreation. While Edina’s off-street bike paths are very pleasant, they are
not continuous or efficient. If the decision-making process of whether to cycle involves piecing
together disjointed paths and busy streets that do not have dedicated bike lanes, it is less likely an
individual will choose to cycle.ix
Page 5
City of Edina • 4801 W. 50th St. • Edina, MN 55424
Opportunity Statement
Create a more pedestrian and cyclist friendly environment along France Avenue south of Highway
62 that that promotes non-vehicular transportation and supports equity.
Areas for
Improvement Current Opportunity
Set Backs
Greater Southdale District Design
Experience Guidelines specifies 50' set
backs along France Avenue in Typology
2b and Typology 5.
Require all new development and
redevelopment to adhere to the 50' set
back.
Landscape Buffers
Landscape buffers vary greatly or are
non-existent along France Avenue
particularly along the West side. The
GSDDEG recommends a double row of
street trees along France Avenue moving
pedestrian paths inward creating a safer
and more pleasant experience.
Require all new development and
redevelopment to adhere to the double
row of trees thereby creating a safer,
more pleasant and more cohesive District
identity.
Amenities for Transit Riders
Currently France Avenue lacks amenities
for transit riders. Stops are merely
marked with the Transit sign. Not all
stops have benches, stops lack shelters,
direct lighting, emergency
communications, warning strips and near
level boarding for individuals with
mobility challenges.
Improve the quality of transit stops. The
Living Streets Plan, and the Climate
Action Plan both state that improving and
encouraging the use of public transport is
an important piece of achieving the City's
Climate goals. Work more actively with
Hennepin County to expand and improve
Metro Transit in Edina.
Page 6
City of Edina • 4801 W. 50th St. • Edina, MN 55424
Roadway Crossings for
Pedestrians and Cyclists
Along France Avenue on both east/west
crossings and north/south crossings are
of uneven quality and safety. The Living
Streets Plan lists safe street crossing as
an issue of equity for all residents.
Examine safety and equity at crossings.
Require improvements to existing
infrastructure to comply with ordinances
and ADA laws.
Pedestrian and Cyclist
Transportation Along the
West Side of France Avenue
Partial development of the West
Promenade that supports recreational
use of bicycles. This path is dependent
on future development and does not
prioritize connecting to the multifamily
housing south of W 72nd Street.
Study the development of a multiuse path
along the west side of France Avenue to
promote transportation from multi-family
housing in the south of W 72nd Street to
connect with parks, schools, the greater
Southdale area and with any proposed
pedestrian/cyclist bridge over France
Avenue.
i Table provided by City of Edina Affordable Housing Office 8/31/23
ii https://mtgis-
portal.geo.census.gov/arcgis/apps/MapSeries/index.html?appid=2566121a73de463995ed2b2fd7ff6eb7
iii https://www.hennepin.us/residents/transportation/france-494.
iv https://www.hennepin.us/-/media/hennepinus/residents/transportation/documents/ada-sidewalk-transition-
plan.pdf pg 21
v https://www.metrotransit.org/e-line-project
vi https://www.edinamn.gov/DocumentCenter/View/12437/Life-Time-Living-Edina-Sketch-Plan-2022
vii https://www.edinamn.gov/DocumentCenter/View/5330/09-05-2018-Draft---Greater-Southdale-Area-District-Plan-
PDF?bidId= p 84
viii https://www.edinamn.gov/696/Edina-Promenade
ix https://pointa.ca/2020/07/29/biking-for-recreation-vs-transportation-the-suburban-cycling-experience/
The CITY ofEDINA
France Avenue Corridor
September 21, 2023
The CITY ofEDINAFrance Avenue Corridor
Initiative
Review the safety, accessibility, and
amenities along the existing France
Avenue Transit Corridor for
pedestrians, bicyclists and transit
riders between Minnesota Drive
and Highway 62 (Southdale
District). Investigation will include
site visits and review of similar case
studies that promote non-
automobile transportation modes
along similar scale roadways and
will include input from key
stakeholders. Inquiry is in response
to the Climate Action Plan and
new parking ordinances.
The CITY ofEDINAFrance Avenue Corridor
Year Delivered Year Approved Development # Units # Affordable
2012 2012 Aurora on France 182 10
2012 2012 One Southdale 232 0
2013 2013 71 France 241 0
2013 2013 Yorkshire Senior Living 96 10
2014 2014 66 West 39 39
2015 2015 The Onyx 244 0
2019 2015 Aria 184 8
2021 2015 Millennium 227 11
2021 2019 The Bowers 185 0
2022 2020 The Sound on 76th 70 70
2023 2021 4040 Flats 118 118
2023 2021 Fred 1 408 0
2023 2021 Pentagon Apartments (The Eddi)200 20
2022 The Finch (Solhem)276 28
The table below of recent housing developments in the Southdale
District illustrates the significant increase in housing units in the
Southdale District in the last decade; 2702 new units have come
onto the market. New development proposals currently under
review for the Southdale District include LifeTime Living and 70th
and France which could add another 567 units to the area.
Table provided by City of Edina Affordable Housing Office 8/31/23
Background
The CITY ofEDINAFrance Avenue Corridor
Opportunity
Statement
Create a more
pedestrian and
cyclist friendly
environment along
France Avenue
south of Highway 62
that that promotes
non-vehicular
transportation and
supports equity.
The CITY ofEDINAFrance Avenue Corridor
The Greater Southdale District Design Experience Guidelines (2019) recommends
50’ setbacks and landscape buffers along France Avenue
Setbacks & Landscape Buffers
The CITY ofEDINAFrance Avenue Corridor
Setbacks & Landscape Buffers
The Greater Southdale District Design Experience
Guidelines (2019) recommends 50’ setbacks and
landscape buffers along France Avenue.
Redevelopment plans should respond to these
guidelines. When plans are approved that do not
adhere to the guidelines it lessens the strength of
these recommendations.
42’ setback
US Bank Building
Phase I of 72 & France Development
The CITY ofEDINAFrance Avenue Corridor
Setbacks & Landscape Buffers
The Greater Southdale District Design Experience
Guidelines (2019) recommends 50’ setbacks and
landscape buffers along France Avenue.
Within the Southdale District redevelopment
plans should respond to these guidelines.
Proposed 7235 France Ave. Sketch Plan
(Macy's Furniture Store Site)
The CITY ofEDINAFrance Avenue Corridor
Metro Transit’s E Line will bring
more efficient service for riders.
Bus stops north of the Southdale
Transit Station will be upgraded to
Metro Transit’s new stop design
which offers amenities for riders.
Amenities for
Transit Riders
The CITY ofEDINAFrance Avenue Corridor
The bus stops south of the
Southdale Transit Center will
receive no upgrades.
Amenities for Transit Riders
The CITY ofEDINAFrance Avenue Corridor
Roadway Crossings
Along the west side of France Avenue, the
sidewalks are inconsistent, some crossings
are dangerous and in some instances are
not ADA compliant. Hennepin County has
a proposed ADA Sidewalk Transition Plan
which includes 104 sidewalk crossings that
are not compliant and require improvement.
The CITY ofEDINAFrance Avenue Corridor
Proposed Edina Pedestrian &
Bicycle Plan
Pedestrian and
Cyclist Transportation
The CITY ofEDINAFrance Avenue Corridor
The existing Edina Promenade to
the East of France Avenue
stretches between W 70th Street
and Gallagher Drive. Cyclists have
the option of continuing on the on
the Nine Mile Creek Regional Trail
(East/West) or find their own
route South as bicycles are
prohibited in Centennial Lake Park.
Pedestrian and Cyclist Transportation
The CITY ofEDINA
West Promenade
West Promenade (Southdale District Design Experience Guidelines)
West Promenade (alternative alignment)
Nine Mile Creek Regional Trail
7200-7250 France redevelopment Lynmar Basin
Stormwater
Project (under
construction)
Valley View Road
reconstruction
(2023)
The West Promenade, currently under
construction, is an isolated segment.
There are proposed plans to extend it
through the new development at 7200
France, but there are gaps in between.
Challenges:
1. No definitive plan
2. Recreational in nature
France Avenue Corridor
Pedestrian and Cyclist Transportation
The CITY ofEDINAFrance Avenue Corridor
East Side Sidewalks
The existing sidewalks along France Avenue are
insufficient in scale, quality and safety to be considered
an appropriate non-vehicular transit corridor in the
Southdale District. Currently the sidewalk along the
East side of France Avenue is considered a multiuse
path. This 8’ wide sidewalk has no signage identifying
the path as multiuse. The sidewalks sometimes have
obstacles in the path.
Pedestrian and Cyclist Transportation
The CITY ofEDINAFrance Avenue Corridor
Bike trails for recreation vs. routes for transportation
“Multi-use trails, as wonderful as they are for recreation, are not sufficient infrastructure for transportation. They do not
connect people to amenities, workplaces, or schools. People, like myself, who wish to use cycling as a means of transportation,
must either brave busy roads or discontinuous residential streets. So, what do you choose? A stressful journey alongside
speeding cars or an inefficient route that extends your journey? Likely, you choose your car.”
--PointA
https://pointa.ca/2020/07/29/biking-for-recreation-vs-transportation-the-suburban-cycling-experience/
Pedestrian and Cyclist Transportation
The CITY ofEDINAFrance Avenue Corridor
Date: December 21, 2023 Agenda Item #: VI.E.
To:Transportation Commission Item Type:
Other
From:Andrew Scipioni, Transportation Planner
Item Activity:
Subject:2023 Work Plan Updates Information
CITY OF EDINA
4801 West 50th Street
Edina, MN 55424
www.edinamn.gov
ACTION REQUESTED:
None.
INTRODUCTION:
Commissioners will provide updates on the status of 2023 Work P lan initiatives (unless an item is elsewhere on
the current agenda). See attached work plan.
ATTACHMENTS:
Description
2023 Work Plan Progress Report
Approved by City Council December 6, 2022
Amended by City Council August 2, 2023
Commission: Transportation Commission
2023 Annual Work Plan
Initiative #1 Initiative Type ☒ Project ☐ Ongoing / Annual ☐ Event
Council Charge ☐ 1 (Study & Report) ☐ 2 (Review & Comment) ☒ 3 (Review & Recommend) ☐ 4 (Review & Decide)
Pedestrian Crossing Policy Review
Review existing crossing policy and recommend changes with
consideration for local amenities such as parks and schools.
Deliverable
Report and recommendations to City
Council
Leads
Chris Brown
Target
Completion Date
Q4 Sub-Committee
Budget Required: None
Staff Support Required: 1 hour per month from Staff Liaison, ~5 hours from other staff (Engineering, Parks & Recreation)
Jan: No update.
Feb: Starting to review policy, resources provided by staff and case studies from other communities.
Mar: Started reviewing case studies from Seattle, Denver and Dakota County and will bring back findings and recommendations.
Apr: Next step is to meet with staff.
May: Meeting with staff next week to discuss next steps.
Jun: Met with staff to talk about next steps, focusing on case studies and looking for areas where Edina can improve.
Jul: No update.
Aug: No update.
Sep: No update.
Oct: Subcommittee will share a draft report at the next meeting.
Nov: Subcommittee will present a draft report at the next meeting.
Approved by City Council December 6, 2022
Amended by City Council August 2, 2023
Initiative #2 Initiative Type ☒ Project ☐ Ongoing / Annual ☐ Event
Council Charge ☒ 1 (Study & Report) ☐ 2 (Review & Comment) ☐ 3 (Review & Recommend) ☐ 4 (Review & Decide)
Bicycle Network Planning for Bikes as Transportation
Develop a priority list of high-traffic corridors and ideas for bike friendly
improvements.
Deliverable
Report to City Council
Leads
Andy Lewis, Jill Plumb-
Smith
Target
Completion Date
Q4
Sub-committee
Budget Required: None
Staff Support Required: 1 hour per month from Staff Liaison
Jan: Subcommittee will use 2018 Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan as blueprint to guide this initiative. Requested street reconstruction information and
Hennepin County contacts from staff.
Feb: Subcommittee will connect with Hennepin County staff on gaps in their system and timeline for improvements.
Mar: Subcommittee met with Hennepin County staff, learned about County’s cost participation program. Hennepin County has also identified how inhospitable
France Ave is for pedestrians and cyclists.
Apr: Subcommittee will review information provided by staff, will focus efforts on what is within City’s control.
May: Subcommittee is making progress on a map of recommendations based on information provided by City and County.
Jun: Subcommittee is looking at current bike routes to Southdale and Cahill.
Jul: No update.
Aug: Subcommittee is reviewing anticipated capital projects.
Sep: No update.
Oct: Subcommittee will share draft report at the next meeting.
Nov: Subcommittee will present a draft report at the next meeting.
Approved by City Council December 6, 2022
Amended by City Council August 2, 2023
Initiative #3 Initiative Type ☒ Project ☐ Ongoing / Annual ☐ Event
Council Charge ☒ 1 (Study & Report) ☐ 2 (Review & Comment) ☐ 3 (Review & Recommend) ☐ 4 (Review & Decide)
France Avenue Corridor Review
Review the safety, accessibility, and amenities along the existing France
Avenue Transit Corridor for pedestrians, bicyclists and transit riders
between Minnesota Drive and Highway 62 (Southdale District).
Investigation will include site visits and review of similar case studies
that promote non-automobile transportation modes along similar scale
roadways and will include input from key stakeholders. Inquiry is in
response to the Climate Action Plan and new parking ordinances.
Deliverable
Report to City Council
Leads
Tricia Rubenstein, Bruce
McCarthy
Target
Completion Date
Q4
Sub-committee
Budget Required: None.
Staff Support Required: 2-5 hours per month from Staff Liaison, ~10 hours from Communications for stakeholder engagement/website
Jan: Requested Hennepin County contacts from staff.
Feb: Subcommittee has started a base drawing, highlighting sidewalks, crosswalks, driveways, and signage. Requested Richfield contacts from staff to get more
information on recent W 66th St reconstruction project.
Mar: Subcommittee reviewed existing sidewalks gaps, amenities for cyclists. Hennepin County is adding sidewalk between Minnesota Dr and W 76th St. Staff
provided a contact for the City of Richfield to learn about recent W 66th St project.
Apr: Subcommittee reached out to Planning about redevelopment proposal at Macy’s and lack of bicycle facilities. A pedestrian underpass is also being discussed
related to the redevelopment of Macy’s and 7200/7250 France.
May: Subcommittee is meeting with the City of Richfield’s Public Works Director this month to learn about W 66th St reconstruction project.
Jun: Subcommittee met with Richfield staff to talk about multi-modal improvement projects. Members asked if there are landscaping standards for France.
Jul: No update.
Aug: Subcommittee reviewed Southdale Design Guidelines, planning to present preliminary findings at September meeting.
Sep: No update.
Oct: Subcommittee will share draft report at the next meeting.
Nov: Commission reviewed a draft report. Subcommittee will update the report and present at the next meeting for approval.
Approved by City Council December 6, 2022
Amended by City Council August 2, 2023
Initiative #4 Initiative Type ☒ Project ☐ Ongoing / Annual ☐ Event
Council Charge ☒ 1 (Study & Report) ☐ 2 (Review & Comment) ☐ 3 (Review & Recommend) ☐ 4 (Review & Decide)
Boulevard Tree Planting
Review options for replacement and new boulevard tree planting
program (Greenspace + Trees Strategy GS1).
Deliverable
Report to City Council
Leads
Tricia Rubenstein
Target
Completion Date
Q4 Sub-Committee
Budget Required: None
Staff Support Required: 1 hour per month from Staff Liaison, ~5 hours from City Forester
Jan: Already collected information on potential opportunities.
Feb: Planning to meet with City Forester in spring.
Mar: City Forester has new interactive map showing where new trees are being planted.
Apr: Subcommittee reached out to City Forester to schedule another meeting.
May: Subcommittee met with City Forester again. City has almost reached its goal of 1,000 new trees this year and the spring tree sale was a big success.
Jun: Subcommittee asked for the street recon map.
Jul: No update.
Aug: Subcommittee connected with City Forester again, reviewed Southdale Design Guidelines.
Sep: No update.
Oct: Subcommittee may present draft report at the next meeting.
Nov: Commission approved the final report.
Approved by City Council December 6, 2022
Amended by City Council August 2, 2023
Initiative #5 Initiative Type ☒ Project ☐ Ongoing / Annual ☐ Event
Council Charge ☐ 1 (Study & Report) ☐ 2 (Review & Comment) ☐ 3 (Review & Recommend) ☒ 4 (Review & Decide)
Cahill Small Area Plan
Appoint Commissioner to serve on the Cahill small area plan working
group.
Deliverable
Commissioner will actively participate
in the working group and provide
regular updates to the Commission.
Leads
None
Target
Completion Date
Q4 Working Group
Budget Required: Funds available through Hennepin County Planning Grant
Staff Support Required: 1 hour per month from Staff Liaison.
Jan: Commissioner Kitui absent, no update provided. Next public workshop is Tuesday, February 21, 7-9 p.m. at Public Works.
Feb: No update.
Mar: No update.
Apr: Add discussion item to May agenda.
May: Draft plan is now available on Better Together Edina website for public comment through June 22. Planning Commission public hearing is scheduled for
June 28. Commission will review and comment at their next meeting.
Jun: Commission reviewed and commented on the draft plan.
Jul: Initiative complete.
Approved by City Council December 6, 2022
Amended by City Council August 2, 2023
Initiative #6 Initiative Type ☒ Project ☐ Ongoing / Annual ☐ Event
Council Charge ☐ 1 (Study & Report) ☐ 2 (Review & Comment) ☒ 3 (Review & Recommend) ☐ 4 (Review & Decide)
Parking
Consideration of future parking in Edina to identify parking initiatives to
pursue in the next 10-15 years, in what order and what
Commissions/resources should be assigned to each.
Deliverable
Recommendation to City Council
(Review and Comment from ETC, EEC)
Leads
Kirk Johnson
Target
Completion Date
Q4 Cross-Commission
Committee (PC lead,
EEC)
Budget Required: None
Staff Support Required: 2-5 hours per month from Staff Liaison, ~5 hours from other staff (Planning, Engineering)
Jan: Planning Commission lead (Alkire) will set up a meeting in early March. EEC representative is Commissioner Schima. Planning expects to develop a roadmap
for Council/Commissions on parking initiatives. ETC will inquire whether bike parking can be included.
Feb: No update.
Mar: Waiting to hear who new lead is from Planning Commission.
Apr: No update.
May: Subcommittee reached out to Planning to determine where this initiative lies in their priorities.
Jun: On hold until Planning reaches out.
Jul: No update
Aug: Met with Planning subcommittee, work will continue into 2024. Next meeting is scheduled for September 6.
Sep: No update.
Oct: No update.
Nov: Subcommittee met with week, next meeting is scheduled for January 9.
Approved by City Council December 6, 2022
Amended by City Council August 2, 2023
Initiative #7 Initiative Type ☒ Project ☐ Ongoing / Annual ☐ Event
Council Charge ☐ 1 (Study & Report) ☐ 2 (Review & Comment) ☐ 3 (Review & Recommend) ☒ 4 (Review & Decide)
Enhancements to Commission Response to Community Comments
Create more thorough and consistent communication to provide to
community members who comment at Transportation Commission
meetings or provide written commentary to the Commission or City
staff.
Deliverable
Proposed set of communications
Leads
Andy Lewis
Grant Wright
Roger Bildsten
Target
Completion Date
Q3
Budget Required: None
Staff Support Required: 1-2 hours from Community Engagement Manager, 1-2 hours from Communications
Aug: Subcommittee will bring draft language to next meeting.
Sep: No update.
Oct: Staff will review draft language with Communications and Administration.
Nov: Commission approved handout language.
Parking Lot: (These items have been considered by the BC, but not proposed as part of this year’s work plan. If the BC decides they would like to
work on them in the current year, it would need to be approved by Council.)
Transit service advocacy, pedestrian safety education, speed limit adherence
Date: December 21, 2023 Agenda Item #: VI.F.
To:Transportation Commission Item Type:
Other
From:Andrew Scipioni, Transportation Planner
Item Activity:
Subject:Organized Trash Collection Discussion Discussion
CITY OF EDINA
4801 West 50th Street
Edina, MN 55424
www.edinamn.gov
ACTION REQUESTED:
None.
INTRODUCTION:
The Commission will continue discussion on organized trash collection following the staff presentation to City
Council at their November 21, 2023 regular meeting.
Date: December 21, 2023 Agenda Item #: VIII.A.
To:Transportation Commission Item Type:
Other
From:Andrew Scipioni, Transportation Planner
Item Activity:
Subject:2023 ETC Accomplishments Information
CITY OF EDINA
4801 West 50th Street
Edina, MN 55424
www.edinamn.gov
ACTION REQUESTED:
None.
INTRODUCTION:
Staff will review the Commission's key accomplishments in 2023.
ATTACHMENTS:
Description
2023 ETC Accomplishments
•Wrote advisory communication on
organized trash collection
•-Successfully lobbied for change in
Quality of Life survey question
•Hosted Q&A session with Edina Police
•Received presentations about State of
Sustainability, E Line BRT project, city
traffic management practices
•Received presentation from 494 Corridor
Commission Commuter Services
•Reviewed and commented on:
•-Roadway reconstruction projects
-PACS Fund projects
•-Wooddale Ave bridge
-CloverRide
•Reviewed 160 Traffic Safety Requests;
submitted 7 recommendations
•Received 14 members of the public for
Community Comment, 17 online
Correspondence Submissions
•Received mid-year work plan modification
(response to Community Comment)
2023 ETC Accomplishments
EdinaMN.gov 1