HomeMy WebLinkAboutPublicWorksPipeline_Late2024_WebHow Drought Conditions Affect You
Droughts occur nearly every year in Minnesota to some degree, and the 2021
drought was the most severe in the state since at least 1988, according to the
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR).
Edina and most suburban public water suppliers get their water from the
same aquifers. Drought affects everyone’s supply, underscoring the need for
individual and communal conservation. To ensure adequate water supply
and promote conservation, Edina has a daytime irrigation ban and odd-
even watering schedule that are always in effect. When drought conditions
become worse enough, like in 2021, the situation may require more strict
conservation, like putting a temporary restriction on all nonessential outdoor
water use.
Use the storyboard on the following pages to learn why conserving water is necessary during times of drought.
To view watering restrictions, visit
EdinaMN.gov/WateringRestrictions.
To view current drought
conditions in Minnesota,
visit Bit.ly/MinnesotaDroughtMap.
LATE 2024PipelinePUBLIC WORKS
Watering RestrictionsCurrent Conditions
How Drought Conditions Affect You (Continued from cover)
Data from DNR Website (Via National Weather Service Reporting Station)
Drought Phases
The DNR has a Minnesota Statewide Drought Plan that outlines each stage of drought severity and the required actions associated
with it. For reference, in 2021, Edina entered the Restrictive Phase; in 2022, the Drought Watch Phase; and in 2023, the Drought
Warning Phase. Learn more at Bit.ly/MinnesotaDroughtPlan.
2021: 25.96 inches 2022: 22.97 inches 2023: 29.69 inches
Water Conservation Checklist
Only water your lawn on your assigned days. Homes or businesses with even-numbered addresses can water on even-numbered dates, odd-numbered addresses can water on odd-numbered dates.
Water lawns only in the morning
or evening, before 11 a.m. or after
5 p.m. on your scheduled days.
Reduce lawn watering frequency.
Audit your irrigation system. Check your system for leaks and make sure your sprinkler heads aren’t wasting water by spraying the driveway or sidewalk.
Replace even just part of your turf
lawn with native plants that require
less watering and are more resilient
and adapted to Minnesota’s climate.
Find ways to save water indoors.
Non-Drought Phase
Emergency Phase: Mandatory actions to reduce water use to January levels and implement measures consistent with an emergency declaration
Drought Watch Phase: City provides conservation information to the community
Drought Warning Phase: Goal to reduce water use to 50% above January levels
Restrictive Phase: Goal to reduce water use to 25% above January levels and minimize nonessential water use
Number of 90° or Higher Days in the Twin Cities Area
2021: 27 days 2022: 18 days 2023: 33 days
Data from DNR Website (Via National Weather Service Reporting Station)
What Causes Drought?
Drought happens when there is a persistent period of low precipitation and/or high temperatures. Since rain and snow replenish the groundwater, the DNR says droughts can frequently continue from one year to the next depending on precipitation in winter and spring.
Annual Precipitation Totals for Twin Cities Area
These maps show the difference between annual precipitation totals and
the historical “normal.”
2
It Pays to Conserve
• Edina’s utility billing rates were redesigned in 2023 to incentivize water conservation. The water tiered rate structure was adjusted for many property types so that those who consume less water can benefit from lower prices.
• Avoid a fine! Property owners found in violation of the City’s watering restrictions can be fined $50-$300 depending on the number of water restriction violations they’ve had in the past three years.
Water Conservation and You
Summer Water Usage
In a drought summer, the City
pumps three times more water
than in winter due to outdoor
water use, placing additional
demand on water resources at a time when they are already stressed. Many residents
take pride in their lawns and landscaping, but during times of drought, the City needs
help to reduce the amount of water being pumped outdoors so that there is plenty
for essential uses and additional things we enjoy like public parks and recreation.
During the 2023 June-August billing cycle, 63% of single-family properties used more
than 24,000 gallons of water in the quarter – enough to fill 400 bathtubs – and fell
into the City’s Tier 3 water usage – the highest tier of Edina’s utility billing scale.
In total, 248,030,492 gallons were used by single-family properties in
the summer quarter.
How Drought Affects Resources
Essential Water Uses
• Household uses like drinking water, cooking, bathing, washing clothes and dishes, and sanitation
• Fire protection and health and medical care
• Agriculture and food
• Energy and Industry
What Happens to Our Resources
During Drought
• Utility system stresses: Increased demand, well levels decrease and pumping and treating water becomes more expensive
• Natural resource stresses: Water levels in lakes and rivers decline and water temperatures rise, making survival difficult for fish and wildlife
• Fire danger: As forests and vegetation dry out, there is more risk for fires and potential for wildfires
• Agriculture impacts: Crops suffer and there is less yield
– Compiled by Brittany Bader
• Install low-flow shower heads and faucet aerators
• Take shorter showers using low-flow shower heads instead of baths
• Fill the sink to wash dishes by hand instead of letting the water run
• Load dishes into the dishwasher without rinsing them
• Run the dishwasher only when it’s full
• Use a large pan to clean vegetables rather than letting the water run
• Turn the faucet off while you shave or brush your teeth
• Only wash full loads of laundry
• Identify and fix water leaks
Indoor Ways to Save
Residential Uses of Water
18%
Tier 1 Tier 2 Tier 3
19%63%
Up to
12,000 gallons
12,001-
24,000 gallons
More than
24,000 gallons
24%
20%
8%
12%
17%
19%
Toilet
Other
Leak
Laundry
Faucet
Shower
3
By Matthew Cords
Edina Public Works is comprised of a team of professionals dedicated to maintaining the infrastructure that makes the city run. From repairing roads to fixing vehicles, the skilled workers at the Public Works & Park Maintenance Facility are asked to solve a variety of challenges using their technical aptitude.
Some Public Works employees are easier
to spot in action, such as the Streets
Division plowing during the winter or
Utilities Division flushing hydrants during
the spring. Others provide behind-the-
scenes labor on services that the typical
resident might not think twice about
when using.
Who is responsible for maintaining the
pipes for our drinking water? How can
we ensure sewage water is draining
properly? The answer to both is the
Utilities Division.
Although the field covers a broad spectrum
of tasks, the Utility Operators have three
primary responsibilities: water, sewer and
stormwater. The division currently consists
of over a dozen full-time employees,
including an Assistant Public Works
Director specializing in Utility work.
The typical day of a Utilities worker can vary, as service needs and priorities are often dictated by seasonal challenges and unplanned maintenance situations.
Work can also vary depending upon
the specialization of each employee.
Some of the specific functions within
Edina’s Utilities Division include water
treatment, lift station maintenance,
vehicle operation, locating, underground
construction and water meter reading
and installation.
Though no two days are the same, tasks
such as managing sanitation water need
to be completed on a regular basis.
Edina’s Utilities Division runs several lift
stations throughout the community, built
to pump sewage to a higher elevation
so gravity can eventually drain water
downhill through the sewer system for
treatment. The exterior of these buildings
may look nondescript to the public, but
their purpose is significant when it comes
to keeping our community clean.
Whether it’s monitoring run-time (the time the pump spends actively pumping fluid), performing maintenance or removing non-sewage items, lift stations must be in good operating condition to provide dependable sewage disposal to the city and its residents.
“Lift station maintenance and being
around sewage water is not something
everyone enjoys doing,” said Utility
Operator Josh Wagner. “There’s a lot
of problem solving and electrical work
involved with the control panel inside
the lift station, but I like the challenge.”
A Day in the Life of a Public Works Utilities Worker
4
Conducting routine maintenance on
water storage structures is another
responsibility for Utility Operators and is
instrumental in providing residents with
the most consistent water product. The
City owns 18 groundwater wells along
with one ground reservoir and four
water towers with a combined capacity
of up to 7 million gallons.
Before clean water can be stored, it needs to pass through one of four City-operated water treatment plants. At these special facilities, water is collected, filtered and cleaned by Edina Utility Operators.
Operators add important chemicals such
as chlorine, fluoride and polyphosphates
at both treatment plants and wells to
promote end-user health and keep
pipes free of corrosion. Additionally,
daily samples of cleaned water are
taken to ensure that the chemical feed
rate is within the strict parameters for
consumption and usage.
Once the water is safe to be used, it is
redistributed through underground pipes
hidden from public view. Maintaining
a network of pipes nearly 200 miles in
length truly takes a team effort. In fact,
on some days, Utility Operators can
spend just as much if not more time
working belowground than above.
It is often these pipelines that highlight
the unpredictable nature of Utilities
work. In some instances, the expansion
or contraction of metal piping can result
in subterranean watermain breaks
requiring immediate attention. Because
emergencies can happen any time, there
is an on-call Utilities crew available to
respond 24/7.
Of course, a day on the job wouldn’t be complete without some of the finest tools and equipment in the industry, and Edina’s Public Works Department has ensured that the Utilities Division is prepared for anything.
The Utilities Division operates several
heavy-duty vehicles, including a vacuum
truck (also known as a jet-vac or combo
unit) used for cleaning out sewer lines
through its suction technology. Jet-vacs
are also utilized to hydro-excavate around
pipes and wires in the ground where it is
hard to use a typical excavator, making
the vehicle ideal for watermain breaks.
“I enjoy jetting sewers with our vac-con
truck because it’s a measurable job,”
said Wagner, who also operates Utility
vehicles regularly. “Whether it’s sewage
or mud from a watermain break, you can
really see the difference you make when
you’re done.”
Another special vehicle used by the
Utilities Division is a CCTV truck, which
contains remote-controlled rovers rigged
with camera equipment to detect defects
in pipes ranging from 6 to 48 inches.
Utility Operators are subject to a wide range of jobs – from working on a variety of equipment to intense manual labor and troubleshooting. There are a lot of areas to grow in the field of utility work. “The other departments just don’t get that kind of variability when it comes to their daily schedule,” said Assistant Public Works Director Dave Goergen. “We’re always going to need these Operators to offer the basic commodities for health and life in Edina.”
“Working in Utilities is a huge
responsibility, as they’re the ones
delivering the valuable resources that
99.9% of Edina residents use every day,”
said Brian Olson, Director of Public Works.
So, the next time you turn on the tap,
take a shower or flush your toilet,
remember that the City’s Utility Operators
are the ones that make it happen.
For more information on the Public Works Department’s Utility Division, visit EdinaMN.gov/PublicWorks.
5
January 2024 marked 20 years since the
first meeting of the Edina Transportation
Commission (ETC). In the two decades
since, 50 volunteer residents have served
on the commission and dedicated their
time and talents to promoting safety and
mobility for all modes of transportation
in the city.
“The Transportation Commission is
important because they bring focused
community guidance to the City Council
about transportation in Edina,” said
Transportation Planner Andrew Scipioni.
“They are able to look at the City’s master
plans from a resident’s perspective and
understand the values and vision of
where we’re trying to go as a city and
Celebrating 20 Years of the Edina
Transportation Commission
provide recommendations on how to
best get there. I am thankful for their
ongoing commitment.”
In celebration of the ETC’s 20th
anniversary, here is a look back at
some of the commission’s notable
history and accomplishments.
– Compiled by Brittany Bader
Transportation Commission members
of past and present were honored
during a proclamation of the commission’s
20th anniversary made at the
May 7, 2024, City Council meeting.
(Photo by Jennifer Bennerotte)
6
2002
The City Council establishes a Local
Traffic Task Force to provide community
perspective and recommendations on
traffic issues in Edina.
2012
The Pedestrian and Cyclist Safety (PACS)
Fund is established to help pay for sidewalks,
trails and other bicyclist-related projects
using revenue from franchise fees. The ETC
annually provides recommendations on how
those funds should be used.
2015City adopts the Living Streets Plan, which serves as a guide for how roadways can be designed to serve the transportation needs of all users, including pedestrians, cyclists, transit riders and vulnerable community members.
2021
Drive 25: To improve
safety for all users
and all modes of
transportation, the
speed limit on most
local streets is reduced to 25 mph.
The ETC recommended the City
Council adopt the ordinance
lowering the speed limit.
A Travel Demand Management Policy is adopted that requires developers to demonstrate that new projects are designed to reduce vehicle trips on congested roadways during peak travel times. The policy was initially recommended by the ETC and then developed by City staff.
2004
The first ETC meeting is
held in January 2004.
2003As part of its recommendations, the Local Traffic Task Force proposes the City form a permanent committee to review traffic safety and local street system matters. As a result, the City Council establishes the ETC.
2007
The Bike Edina Task Force
subcommittee leads the
development of the City’s
first Comprehensive Bicycle
Transportation Plan, created
to improve the network of
bikeways in Edina and make
roadways more accessible
and safer for cyclists.
2014
The Active Routes
to School Plan is
adopted. It provides
recommendations for
creating an environment
where more students
walk, bike or roll to
school rather than take
cars or be dropped off.
2018
The CloverRide circulator bus
begins providing transportation
one day per week from senior
housing locations to amenities like
groceries, retail and recreation.
The City adopts the Pedestrian
and Bicycle Master Plan, which
is an update to the 2007
Bicycle Transportation Plan.
The ETC assists in the development of the Transportation Chapter of the 2018 Comprehensive Plan.
2024
The Commission will
review the Pedestrian and
Bicycle Master Plan to
identify any opportunities
for improvement in
the plan itself or its
implementation.
This year’s work plan
also includes researching
how other cities are
implementing measures
to encourage slower
and safer driving and
how those ideas can
be brought to Edina
neighborhoods.
7
By Matthew Cords
Whether its heavy-duty vehicles or hand tools, Public Works and Park Maintenance staff keeps a watchful eye on their equipment needs to offer outstanding service and keep the city running.
Supporting employees with modern tools
to complete jobs more efficiently is crucial.
Thus, much of the equipment used in
the City’s Park Maintenance, Streets and
Utilities divisions adhere to a replacement
schedule, dictated by the City’s Capital
Improvement Plan (CIP). Equipment
Three Heavy-Duty Vehicles Highlight New
Equipment Acquisitions
Type of Equipment: Multipurpose Truck
Make/Model: 2023 Western Star Model 4700X
Primary Usage: This multi-usage and highly versatile truck is used primarily to plow roads in the winter, pull concrete trailers and haul rubble from
summer street construction projects. The trucks
have detachable plow blades and have been fitted
with brine tanks for winter weather operations.
Department: Street Department,
Concrete Division
Due for Replacement: 2035
Type of Equipment: Log Loader
Make/Model: 2023 Western Star Model 4700X
Primary Usage: This specialized truck is used for tree removal, as well as hauling brush and branches from park maintenance projects. The arm is controlled by
an operator located in the cab of the truck, and can
move large tree trunks in one piece. This equipment
is great for day-to-day operation, and can be utilized in urgent situations such as removing fallen trees from roads after storms.
Department: Park Maintenance Division
Due for Replacement: 2039
Type of Equipment: Jet-Vac
Make/Model: 2023 Freightliner Model 114SD
Primary Usage: This specialized truck serves many purposes in the Utilities Division. The primary job usage for a jet-vac or combo-unit truck is to clean
and maintain the sanitary/storm sewer system using
high pressurized water and a powerful vacuum
system to pull debris back to the manhole where it is removed. This truck is also used for hydro-excavation around utilities in the ground. There are
only a few projects of the Utilities Division during
which you won’t see this piece of equipment.
Department: Utilities Division
Due for Replacement: 2035
purchasing is also determined by a Public
Works scoring system, which considers
the age of the vehicle, its condition and
usages. For example, if the condition of
equipment is good and primarily used for
certain specific jobs (i.e. a vacuum truck),
it could be up for replacement later than
its standard 12-year window.
With a skilled team of mechanics, the life of equipment can be prolonged granted proper maintenance is completed, which reduces expenses significantly. “Every piece of equipment is different, but for our fleet of heavy-duty vehicles, we hope to
get at least 15-20 years out of each one,”
said Equipment Operations Supervisor
Richard Poppitz.
Typically, when Public Works purchases a piece of equipment, it is done directly through vendors as opposed to secondary or used markets. Equipment is almost always purchased new for enhanced quality as well as State pricing. A new multipurpose truck, a specialized log loader and a vacuum truck for utility work highlight the more than 20 pieces of equipment Public Works obtained in the last year.
8
Change Will Improve Safety Between Wooddale and Brookview Avenues
With buffered bike lanes, a two-foot painted divider separates those using the bike
lane from vehicles, increasing rider comfort and safety. (Submitted illustration)
By Debbie Townsend
If you travel Valley View Road between
Wooddale and Brookview avenues, you
might notice a new white line has been
painted next to the bike lane.
For drivers, this is the new line to stay
left of. For bicyclists, it gives them extra
distance so wide vehicles and right-side
mirrors aren’t inches from them.
“A buffered bike lane is the safest form
of on-street bicycle facility that we can
provide,” said Transportation Planner
Andrew Scipioni. “It makes bicyclists
feel safer.”
What is a buffered bike lane?
It’s a 1- to 2-foot striped area of road next
to the bike lane. It’s a step above a shared
lane, where bicycles and vehicles share
the same road space. “That’s seen as
less safe because there is not physical
separation,” Scipioni said.
A physical barrier, such as a curbline or
bollards, between cars and cyclists would
be a higher safety level than buffered
lanes. Those are expensive and high
maintenance because special equipment
is needed to plow snow around them.
Why is this the right solution?
Consultant Stantec studied traffic
patterns in that area and recommended
removing the left-turn lanes at Kellogg
Avenue and West 62nd Street to make
room for bike lanes and buffers on both
sides of Valley View.
The change causes only a minor increase
in delay for left-turning vehicles, and only
during peak travel times, Stantec concluded.
How much did this project cost?
The Pedestrian and Cyclist Safety (PACS)
Fund, which comes from utility franchise
fees, covered the $10,000 cost of the
study and recommendation. The actual
bike lane and buffer striping didn’t have
an added cost. It was done as part of
the required road painting following
scheduled repaving in that area.
Do we really need this for a few bikes?
“Our bike network is not just for standard
pedal bikes,” Scipioni said. “E-bikes,
e-scooters and assistive mobility devices
use bike lanes.” Also, roads often are
cleared of snow before sidewalks, so
they become important safe routes for
non-motorized vehicles.
Buffered Bike Lanes Come to Valley View Road
Why doesn’t the bike buffer extend beyond this area?
Bike lanes, buffers and similar improvements are usually done as part of road reconstruction, mill-and-overlay projects or as part of private development. This makes the changes easy and inexpensive.
The PACS Fund also pays for two to three
separate projects a year that try to fill in the
gaps where bike lanes or sidewalks are missing.
“We try the best we can to build off the existing
network and make logical connections,”
Scipioni said. “One of the best ways to get
people to use bicycles or sidewalks is to
connect it to where they want to go.”
See a map of planned routes at EdinaMN.gov/ProposedBikeLanes. For more information, visit EdinaMN.gov/BikeorWalk or contact Scipioni at ascipioni@EdinaMN.gov or 952-826-0440.
9
Q: Why are some of you coated in plastic for the winter?
A: On the roads with higher speeds, the salt that rolls off the plow trucks comes at hydrants fast and it’s really bad for us. By wearing a plastic winter coat, I’m able to prevent corrosion so my lifetime is extended!
Q: What is hydrant flushing and why
is it necessary?
A: Every spring, our Public Works friends
visit each fire hydrant in the city to open
our caps and allow us to flow water into
the street. Letting us run water is great for our pipes! It clears any stagnant water from the lines and keeps our water fresh. It also helps indicate which hydrants might need a little support and maintenance.
Q: How often are hydrants flushed?
A: Public Works flushes hydrants for
two to three weeks during April and
May. Random hydrants are also flushed
throughout the year as weather and
water demand allows.
‘Henry the Hydrant’
Tells All About Fire
Hydrant Maintenance
Q: What other maintenance is required
for hydrants?
A: Every year during flushing time, we get
inspected by Public Works. They ensure
we don’t have any defects and aren’t
leaking. They double check all of our caps
and gaskets are working properly, and
give us a fresh coat of paint when we
need it.
Q: Why is my tap water discolored during flushing time?
A: Sometimes running all that water
through the lines stirs up mineral deposits
that can run into homes. To prevent the
discolored water from coming into your
home, try avoiding running any water
when you notice Public Works crews
flushing in your neighborhood.
Q: What should I do when I see
discolored water?
A: For starters, the water is safe to drink
and use despite being discolored! But
that pesky rust-colored water could stain
laundry. Residents should check for signs
of discoloration prior to washing clothes.
Cigarettes – It’s important to dispose
of cigarette butts properly, especially
when there are dry conditions. Careless
discarding can cause unwanted fires that
can quickly spread.
Cooking – Careless or unattended
cooking is the leading cause of home fires
in Edina. Pay attention when cooking and
keep the stovetop and surrounding areas
clear of combustibles.
Discarded ashes – Always ensure
recreational fire ashes are cool before
discarding. Even the smallest ember can
cause a fire that could spread to your home.
Recreational fires and outdoor fireplaces
– Permits are required for recreational
fires. Always have recreational fires
at least 25 feet from structures and
anything that can burn. Never have fires
when there are wind speeds over 15
mph and always make sure the fire is
supervised by an adult.
Fireworks – Only use fireworks on hard
surfaces, away from flammable materials
like grass and structures. Ensure fireworks
are completely cool before throwing
them in a garbage bin by letting them sit
overnight in a metal bin or soak them in
water before throwing them away in the
plastic garbage cart.
Henry’s Fire Prevention Tips
Henry and the other fire hydrants in
town have seen a lot in the nearly 75
years since Edina Fire began using them.
Although hydrants are there for residents
in their time of need, preventing fires is
the key. Here are Henry’s most popular
fire prevention tips:
10
If the water is discolored when you turn
on the tap, simply turn on a few cold
water faucets and let the water run until
it is clear. Because the water system is a
“single-pressure zone,” it is possible that
discolored water problems will occur in any
area of the city while flushing is occurring.
Q: How do I know when my neighborhood will be getting flushed?
A: At the start of hydrant flushing, residents are notified through the City’s website, City Extra email and social media. Keep an eye out for weekly updates throughout the flushing time for when our friends will be flushing your neighborhood.
Q: Is there anything else you want our
readers to know?
A: Although we had a mild winter, we
appreciate neighbors clearing the snow
around us during the winter months. In the
summer months, hydrants should have at
least a three-foot radius clear of landscaping
and debris. Thanks for your help in taking
care of us. My friends and I will always be
there for you when accidents happen!
The City is required to monitor your
drinking water for specific contaminants
on a regular basis. Results of regular
monitoring are an indicator of whether
or not your drinking water meets health
standards. The City of Edina’s water
is routinely tested by the Minnesota
Department of Public Health (MDH)
Public Health Laboratory.
Due to an MDH lab error, the City did not receive results for all required radionuclide samples in 2023. We are sharing this information in order to fully inform our customers of the circumstances of this missing information and what caused the situation. All other tests performed on the City’s water during 2023 were within expected ranges and satisfactory.
The City properly submitted its samples
for the fourth quarter of 2023 in
November 2023, but the MDH lab did
not complete tests for radionuclides until
after the start of the new year. During
those tests, a lab error occurred and it
was too late for additional fourth-quarter
water samples to be collected. As a result,
the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
requires the City to report “the City did
not complete all monitoring or testing
for radionuclides, and therefore cannot
be sure of the quality of your drinking
water during that time.”
“I am confident that had we been able to
supply another sample for radionuclides
before the end of 2023, it would have
been below the maximum contaminant
City Publishes 2023 Drinking
Water Report Online
level as it was in the quarter before and
the quarter after,” said Public Works
Director Brian Olson. “It is frustrating
to have to share this information when
the City is doing all that it can to provide
safe drinking water and build confidence
in our product.”
Radionuclides are a natural part of the environment and small amounts of radiation are common in the air, water and soil, according to the MDH. Past results on Sept. 28, 2023 were 4.24 pCi/L for Combined Radium 226+228, below the maximum contaminant level (MCL) of 5.4 pCi/L. Results from the first quarter of 2024 were also below the MCL.
Several other water suppliers were
impacted by the same lab error. The
City has been in close contact with MDH
about how the error occurred and how
it could be prevented in the future.
“Please be aware that the MDH Public
Health Lab takes this very seriously and
will work to prevent such situations in
the future,” wrote Kim Larsen, MDH
Community Public Water Supply Unit
Supervisor, about the lab mistake in a
letter notifying the City of the issue.
Residents can read the City’s
detailed drinking water report at
EdinaMN.gov/WaterReport2023.
Morningside Neighborhood residents
who receive their water from the City
of Minneapolis will find information
detailing the quality of Minneapolis’
water in the report, too.
Lithium-Ion Batteries – L-ion batteries
are in many devices such as electric
bikes, phones, tools and vehicles. These
batteries can cause unexpected fires
when not maintained properly. Follow
the manufacturer’s guidelines and never
charge or store in your escape route.
– Compiled by Lauren Siebenaler
11
Three Street Reconstructions
Underway in Edina ¹»
¹»
¹º¹º
¹º
ñ
ñ
¹»¹º
¹º
¹º
¹º
¹º
¹º
ñ
¹»
ñ
ñ
ñ
ñTRACY AVEVERNON AVEWOODDALE AVEHANSEN RD70TH ST W
FRANCE AVE SVALLEYVIEWRDMINNESOTA DRGLEASONRDEdinaCommunityCenter
AvailAcademy
GoldenYearsMontessori
CityHall
St Peter's LutheranChurch & School
South ViewMiddle School
NormandaleElementary
ConcordSchool
CorneliaSchool
SouthdaleLibrary
FireStation
Public Works &Park Maintenance
Creek ValleySchool
FireStation
Valley ViewMiddle School
EdinaHighSchool
CountrysideSchool
HighlandsSchool
EdinaCommunityLibrary
Our Lady ofGrace Church& School
M in n ehahaCreek
NineMileCreek
N ine MileCreek
SouthdaleCenter
Canadian Pacific RailroadCanadian Pacific RailroadBLAKE RDSCHAEFER RDV ER N O N A VECAHILL RD66TH ST W
YORK AVE SINTERLACHEN BLVD
MALONEY AVE
44TH ST W
50TH ST W
54TH ST W
58TH ST W
70TH ST W
76TH ST W
DEWEY HILL RD
VALLEY VIEW RD
VALLEY VIEW RD
78TH ST W
I-494 HWY 100HWY 169HWY 169HWY 100HWY 62
HWY 62
April 2019
±Legend
0 2,000
Feet
Three local street
reconstruction projects are
underway in Edina.
Local roads are prioritized for reconstruction based on their condition. Other factors considered when determining neighborhoods with the highest needs are the condition of underground public utilities, gaps in pedestrian infrastructure and age of original construction.
3
1
2
Critical Text Notification Signup
Residents can sign up to receive text message
notifications related to urgent and unexpected
impacts on neighborhood projects by texting
CONCORD or SOUTHDALE to 844-929-4328.
12
1 50th Street and Grange
Road Improvements
Where: West 50th Street and Grange Road
Construction timeframe:
June through August
A complete reconstruction of West 50th
Street from Grange Road to just past Dale
Drive and Grange Road (West 50th to
the northbound Minnesota Highway 100
exit) will be completed this summer. West
50th east of Minnesota Highway 100 will
be completely closed for the majority of
the project. Eden Avenue is the detour
for local traffic. The Highway 100 bridge
at West 50th and Vernon Avenue is not
part of the project. More updates on the
Highway 100 interchange project are
expected later this year.
Website:
BetterTogetherEdina.org/
east-grandview-transportation-study
Contact: Engineering Director Chad
Millner, cmillner@EdinaMN.gov or
952-826-0318
2 Concord B & C
Where: Concord Neighborhood north
of Minnesota Highway 62, south of
Valley View Road
Construction timeframe:
April through November
The Concord B & C reconstruction project
will include new asphalt pavement, concrete
curb and gutter, new watermain and water
services, improvements to the sanitary
sewer and storm sewer systems, and
construction of pedestrian facilities along:
• Concord Avenue between West 64th Street and Valley View
• Wooddale Avenue between Nancy Lane and Valley View
• West 64th between Concord and Rose Court
Website:
BetterTogetherEdina.org/concord-bc
Contact: Engineering Technician Brandon
Freeman, bfreeman@EdinaMN.gov or
952-826-0448
3 Southdale B
Where: Barrie Road, Heritage Road and
West 65th Street
Construction timeframe:
April through October
The Southdale B reconstruction project will
include new asphalt pavement, concrete
curb and gutter, partial watermain and
water services, improvements to the
sanitary sewer and storm sewer systems,
new street lighting and a new concrete
sidewalk along Barrie Road and a portion
of West 65th Street and Heritage Drive.
Website:
BetterTogetherEdina.org/southdale-b
Contact: Graduate Engineer Chris Moore,
cmoore@EdinaMN.gov or 952-826-0444
(continued on Page 14)
Neighborhood Roadway Reconstruction
6144
4300
4401
4415
4443
6304
4502-14
4545
4421
4439
6302
6306
4435 4425
4431
6305
4425
43014420
4501
6313
6024
4509
45004520
6303
6232
4420
6145
6200
4701 45096301
6233
6029
6141
442861616025
6324
6208
6225
6216
4505
61124704
452146046308
6316
61174624
6209
6217
6224 44326020 6025
6321
6325
6300
6216
6321 62046109
62056301
6108
6208
6309
6128
6104
6008
45086031-33
6028
4501
4516-18
6021
4500
6301 44366225
6020
6016
6012
4621 4609
6209
6104
4504
4605
6016
6024
6324
4620
6200
6012
4617
6217
6101
6305 620
94613
45046100
6305
6109
6117
62
17 62086017
6105
6113
4505
6301
6205 45004624
6121
6125
45126108
44046025
451662136116
6304
4701
6309
6021
6100
6205
4616
6140
6313
6109
6336
6213
6201
6317
6212
6329
6317
61016105
6008
6325
6201 47056109
6017
6009
4713
6028
6321
6016
6209
6017
47046332
6009
6324
6012
462947006320
6013
45136309
6308
6312
6305
6337
6217
6105
44306021
6141
6125
6013
6312
6328
6112
44406204
61214708 46086308
6020
6329462862136212 6021
6304
6036
6013
6120
6045
6020
6333
63124701 6017
6317
4709
4412
62016320
6013
4712
6309
6044
6221
6012
6313
6316
450047004704 6037
6304 45176013
4705620546126113
63006301
4508
6016
6336 4444462047134708
6008
6305
6116
6104
633247096328
6333 620946256012
6329
6016
6017
6041
6028
6117
61246120 6121
6113611661126108
6133
6029
61326128
6101
6129
6032
6100
6125
6020
6101
6121
6136
6029
6129
61046101
6033
6016
6045
6021
61096113
6137
6117
6037 6033
60176021
6105
6041 6037
60246025
6044
6028
60366032
6016
6025
6100
61126120
6142
6020
6040
6024
6145
6039
6313
6140
4408Project Limits
WOODDALE AVE§¨¦62CONCORD AVEASHCROFT AVEST JOHNS AVEASHCROFT LNMILLERS LAROSE CT64TH ST W
GARRISON LN
NANCY LN
62ND ST W
VIRGINIA LN
63RD ST W
VALLEY VIEW RD
/
Engineering DeptJune 2023
2024 Project AreaConcord B & C Neighborhood Roadway ReconstructionCITYOFEDINAMINNESOTAINCORPORATED1888
,e
Concord B & C
50th Street and Grange
6401
6315 6301-113316
3450
6515
6224
6300
6304
63086301
6305
6309 6324632064 00
3400 631663126328
63306401
6405
6409
6421641764156423 6313-2363016325-39
63 41-5 1
6353-67
6369-83
6385-99
6417-31
6433-37
6449-59
6461-756
477-876489-996401-15
6550
3250
3117 3111
64006455
3456
630563096315
6450310534346200
6300
6304
65196363 3201 34203330 6525-756533
6517
3625
65006525
6426-2864156300
6200
6500
6316-18
6444-46
6220
6225
6201 6200
6221
6305
6204
6400-02
6420-22
6432-34
6205
6414-16
6438-40
6408-10
6344-46
6301
6212
6217
6213
6209
6330-32
6208
6216
6310-12
6338-40
63226324
HERITAGE DR
Project Limits
YORK AVEBARRIE RDW 64TH ST
W 66TH ST XERXES AVE§¨¦62
W 65TH ST
DREW AVE/Engineering DeptOctober 2023
2024 Project AreaSouthdale B Neighborhood Roadway ReconstructionCITYOFEDINAMINNESOTAINCORPORATED1888
,e
Southdale B
13
Mill and Overlay Projects in 2024
In a mill-and-overlay project, the top few inches of the roadway are ground down
before a new layer of asphalt is laid down. This process helps smooth the surface and
extend the pavement’s lifetime before a reconstruction is needed. Mill-and-overlay
projects are an important component of the City’s Pavement Management Program.
Streets to be included in the City’s 2024 mill-and-overlay schedule are:
• Parkwood Knolls Neighborhood, including Schaefer Road, Willow Wood Road, Larada Lane, Green Farms Road, Interlachen Boulevard and Park Terrace
• Sunnyside Road alley from Wooddale Avenue to Grimes Avenue
• Whiting and Holborn avenues and Ridgeview Drive
• West 65th Street near Valley View Road
• York Avenue alley, West 63rd Street to West 65th Street
• Southdale Circle
• West 70th Street from York Avenue to Xerxes Avenue
• Parklawn Avenue east of France Avenue
• Edinborough Way from Parklawn Avenue to West 76th Street
Edina Sidewalk Refresh
This summer, all sidewalks and pedestrian ramps in the southeast quadrant of the
City will be inspected. If any sidewalks fail the inspection, they will be grinded down.
Any sidewalks found to be not fixable will be replaced.
More than 30 pedestrian ramps are being upgraded within the area to be in compliance
with American Disabilities Act (ADA) standards. Those 32 ramps were selected due to
high pedestrian traffic and number of seniors living nearby.
The sidewalk and ramp improvements are funded by the City and Pedestrian and Cyclist
Safety (PACS) Fund.
Southeast quadrant sidewalks to be inspected:
• Garrison Lane, Valley View Road and West 69th Street
• France Avenue South
• York Avenue South
• Edinborough Way
• Minnesota Drive
• West 62nd Street
• West 65th Street
• West 66th Street
• West 69th Street
• West 70th Street
• West 72nd Street
• West 77th Street
• Minnesota Drive
• Parklawn Avenue
• Gallagher Drive
• Hazelton Road
• Mavelle Drive
• Cornelia Drive
• Claremore Drive
• Normandale Road west of Minnesota Highway 100
– Compiled by Lauren Siebenaler14
By Reham Alemam
Did you volunteer to organize your
neighborhood’s block party? Wondering
how to close your street for the event?
Before filling out an application, choose
a low-traffic street or cul-de-sac for the
party. For safety reasons, the Public Works
Department will not approve closures on
thoroughfares or collector streets.
“Permitted block parties must be open
to all residents on the block. Blocks are
limited to two block parties per year
outside of Night to Unite,” explained Holly
Conwell, Administrative Support Specialist
for the Public Works Department.
Once the street to be closed has
been identified, fill out the City’s free
application no later than five business
days before the event. “If you fill it out
with less notice, the application will be
denied,” Conwell said. “We need at least
a week to coordinate with all the different
City departments to get equipment ready
and proper clearance for the event.”
The Block Party Application is quick to fill
out at EdinaMN.gov/BlockParty. You can
also find paper copies at the Public Works &
Park Maintenance Facility, 7450 Metro Blvd.
After you have successfully submitted
the form, you should receive an email
response within two business days from
Conwell. (Check your email account’s junk
or spam folder if you don’t see it.)
In the email, you will also receive
a diagram showing how the safety
equipment needs to be arranged on your
street. You should expect six orange
cones and two green cones to be dropped
off at the location listed on the form and
to be picked up the day after the party.
In 2023, the City of Edina issued 143
block party permits. Of those, 74 were for
Block Parties: Securing
Permits and Ensuring Safety
Night to Unite during August. The second-
most popular date is Halloween. The rest
are spread over the summer months,
according to Public Works records.
Other rules and tips for a safe block party:
• Block off only the approved parameters.
• Always have an adult present.
• Block parties cannot be longer than six hours.
• Block parties must end by 10 p.m.
• Coordinate with your neighbors to ensure proper cleanup.
• Any violations will be handled by the Police Department and may result in fines and a shutdown of
the block party.
For more information, contact Conwell in the Public Works Department at hconwell@EdinaMN.gov or 952-826-0300.
Block parties are a great way to bring a
community together. Organizers must
apply for a block party permit at least five
business days in advance. (File photo)
15
People of Public Works
Two New Mechanics Join the City of
Edina’s Public Works Department
Ivan Jordan joined the Public Works
Equipment Operations Division in mid-
February. He earned his associate degree
in Heavy Duty Truck Technology from
Dakota County Community College. Prior
to beginning work at the City of Edina,
Jordan spent four years at Minnesota
Valley Transit Authority as a Mechanic
where he gained valuable industry skills.
Jordan has always been a “car guy” and
has worked on vehicles ranging from
Toyotas to semi-trucks over the years,
both as a hobby and at work. Though
skilled in a variety of areas, Jordan’s
favorite projects as a Mechanic involve
electrical work and fabrication of
components to build equipment. Even
though the job of a Mechanic can be a
challenging one, Jordan says his favorite
thing about the trade is learning technology
advances, such as those associated with
hybrid and electric vehicles.
Ivan Jordan, Mechanic
Marquis Bryant started his role as a Mechanic at the City of Edina in late February, bringing a wide range of mechanical experiences to Public Works. Growing up working on cars, Bryant knew being a Mechanic was the career for him. After attending the Universal Technical Institute for a 10-month Diesel Mechanic certification, Bryant worked on everything from school buses at First Student, locomotives at Progressive Rail and semi-trucks at Saia Freight. Bryant
says the “challenge of diagnosing issues” is what he enjoys the most about his job, as finding the root cause of problems and creating solutions is satisfying to him. Having worked on heavy duty equipment his whole career, diesel engine maintenance is Bryant’s favorite type of project to work on. Bryant says that his primary areas of expertise are in engine and electrical work.
– Compiled by Matthew Cords
Marquis Bryant, Mechanic
Photo by Matt Cords
Photo by Matt Cords
16
*Wash car on lawn or divert runoff into landscaping
to reduce pollutants in stormwater system.
By Debbie Townsend
Water Resources Manager Jessica Wilson
cringes when she sees a bag of dog poop
along a sidewalk or in a park. Or worse –
dangling from a tree branch.
“How gross to see a bag of poop in a
tree!” she said. “Why would you even
bag it if you’re just going to leave it?”
Here’s the Scoop: Don’t Leave Bagged Poop
Compost/Yard Waste
Grass clippings
Leaves
Hazardous Waste Drop-Off Site
Gasoline
Home maintenance liquids
Joint compound
Oil
Paint
Sink Drain
Carpet cleaner tank water
Mop water
Storm Drain
Car wash runoff – residential*
Irrigation water
Melting snow and ice
Rain
Sump pump discharge
Dechlorinated swimming pool water
Trash
Dog poop or other pet waste
Debris from driveway, garage or sidewalk
Bagging and abandoning dog waste is illegal, of course, but it also does nothing to stop the problem of the waste contaminating streams, ponds, lakes or other water sources. Plus it adds a plastic bag to the contamination. And if that bag in a tree breaks while you’re walking under it, gross is an understatement.
“It’s not enough to bag it. You need to put it in the trash can,” Wilson said.
Here’s how to properly dispose of
items to protect our water. If you see
a pollutant going into a storm drain,
contact Wilson at 952-826-0445.
17
By Reham Alemam
It is estimated that more than 500,000
people visit Centennial Lakes Park each
year, yet the care and upkeep of this
beloved destination relies primarily on a
dedicated core team of just five full-time
and two part-time staff.
The park at 7499 France Ave. S. features
lawn games, paddle boats and a putting
course and is the site of countless
weddings and private events in the
summer. The park is also home to a weekly
farmers market and concert series in
the warmer months. The 10-acre lake is
groomed daily during the winter for ice
skating and Hughes Pavilion is transformed
into a spectacular warming house.
Seasonal employees ensure Centennial
Lakes Park remains fully functional all year
round. During the busy summer season,
40 seasonals are hired. In the winter, 25.
Centennial Lakes Park thrives under the
diligent care of a passionate team led by
General Manager Tiffany Bushland. She
exudes passion for her role, describing it
as “the coolest job in the Twin Cities.”
Each day brings new challenges and joys
for Bushland and her team. They embrace
the seasonal shifts, from the bustling
summer activities to the serene winter
landscapes. “It’s so seasonal,” explained
Bushland. “Summer is busy and crazy, and
then suddenly winter’s here, busy and
fun; the change keeps it exciting.
“People love coming here. They bring
new friends and family to experience it.”
Ensuring the park’s beauty and
functionality is no small feat. Bushland’s
team includes an Assistant General
Manager, Maintenance Operations
Supervisor, Maintenance Operations
Coordinator and Horticulturist. They are
rounded out by Jay Nelson and Tyler
Pribyl who work as part-time seasonal
employees during busy months.
Horticulturist Connor Clifford gained
experience by working as a seasonal
employee at Arneson Acres Park. Armed
with a recent degree in horticulture and
years of hands-on experience, Clifford
expertly tends to the park’s plant life. He
possesses an intimate understanding of soil
composition and plant material, ensuring
that every tree, shrub and flower thrives
in the park’s carefully curated landscapes.
“The signs will tell you exactly what you’re
looking at,” Clifford explains, pointing out
a PMJ Rhododendron with its distinctive
pink-purple blooms in the spring.
Centennial Lakes Park is home to roughly
500 different species of plants, including
trees, shrubs and perennials. Clifford’s
attention to detail extends to combating
invasive species like the aquatic Purple
Loosestrife and Virginia Creepers, which
are diligently monitored and managed by
him and his spring/summer seasonal staff.
Jon Rabe, the Maintenance Operations
Supervisor, adds another layer to Centennial
Lakes’ harmonious upkeep. With a focus
on day-to-day operations, Rabe ensures
that the park remains a pristine haven for
visitors. From setting up private rentals to
addressing unforeseen issues like broken
benches or litter, Rabe’s role is pivotal in
maintaining the park’s integrity.
Whether it’s preparing for the bustling
farmers market or adapting to weather
challenges, Rabe and his team of
seasonal staff remain steadfast in their
commitment to the park’s upkeep.
Assistant Manager Chris Rotty plays a
pivotal role in overseeing behind-the-scenes
operations related to programming and
staffing. He manages key events like the
farmers market and summer entertainment
series, ensuring everything runs smoothly.
“Every season brings different kinds of
things with our kind of programming and
staffing,” he said. “We’re always looking
at six months, eight months ahead, to get
ready for the next season.”
Jeff Pesola, the Maintenance Operations
Coordinator at Centennial Lakes Park, has
been with the City since December 2022.
Dedicated Staff of Centennial
Lakes Keep Park Beautiful
18
His primary focus revolves around
maintaining the park’s putting course,
which involves daily tasks like mowing
greens, setting up cups and ensuring
the course is ready for visitors.
Additionally, Pesola oversees turf
care throughout the park, from
seeding and irrigation in the spring
to routine mowing during the summer
months. He collaborates closely with
other team members to address
any park-wide maintenance needs,
reflecting the park’s collaborative
and hands-on approach to upkeep.
One of the park’s unique features is its man-made stormwater retention pond, a central attraction meticulously tended by the team. Keeping the lake pristine involves regular cleanups using nets and a small boat for debris removal.
The park’s allure extends beyond its
physical beauty. It’s a place where
stories unfold—a child’s first putt on
the putting course, families bonding
on paddleboat rides, and nature
enthusiasts marveling at the changing
seasons. “It’s really neat to be a part
of their lives,” Rotty said.
As the seasons ebb and flow, the
rhythm of life at Centennial Lakes
evolves. Together, the park staff
ensure that Centennial Lakes remains a
cherished urban oasis—a place where
nature thrives and memories are made.
For more information, visit CentennialLakesPark.com.
Centennial Lakes Park General
Manager Tiffany Bushland poses
in front of the new swan-shaped
paddleboats available to rent.
Horticulturist Connor Clifford works inside the pop-up greenhouse in the maintenance garage, where he grows and cares for the plant life seen around Centennial Lakes Park.
Jon Rabe is the Maintenance
Operations Supervisor at
Centennial Lakes Park.
Centennial Lakes Park Assistant Manager Chris Rotty works inside Hughes Pavilion at the center of the park.
Maintenance Operations
Coordinator Jeff Pesola
maintains the putting course.
(Photos by Reham Alemam)
19
By Matthew Cords
The City of Edina constantly seeks new ways to protect the environment by reducing its carbon footprint.
In an effort to meet City climate goals that
include reducing communitywide emissions
45 percent below 2019 levels by 2030 and
achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, a
critical push to bring sustainable biodiesel
to Public Works is underway.
Biodiesel is renewable fuel derived from
sources such as vegetable oils, animal fats
or recycled greases. Current technology
allows for most diesel engines to run on
100 percent (B100) biofuels above 40
degrees Fahrenheit. The City is currently
looking into purchasing B100 compatible
vehicle retrofit systems in addition to
upgrading the Public Works & Park
Maintenance Facility’s fueling station
with brand new biodiesel tanks.
New Biofuel Blends Likely Coming to Edina Public Works
Equipment Operations Supervisor
Richard Poppitz, also in charge of fuel
management, said that the Public Works
Department already has plans in place
to increase the biofuel blend of their
existing ultra-low-sulfur diesel fuel from
B5 (5 percent biofuel) to B20 this spring,
with the hope of achieving higher blends
during the summer months.
Poppitz points to a new partnership with MEG Corporation, a Minnesota-based diesel fuel additive company, as being the key to obtaining a B50 blend without having to retrofit vehicles to run on new fuel blends.
“We’re right at the beginning stage,”
Poppitz said, describing the project
which is still in early development.
The City has already started evaluating
upgrades to current infrastructure for
B100, and looking at grants to subsidize
the eco-friendly project. Federal grants
such as the Higher Blends Infrastructure
Incentive Program (HBIIP) could offset the
cost of building B100 technology, with
smaller aid packages from private partners
such as the Minnesota Soybean Research
& Promotion Council likely.
“There’s a whole lot going on right now. It’s a lot of meetings and grant applications, but I’m hopeful we can make this work,” Poppitz said.
If funded, a B100 project would likely take
two to three years to fully implement.
However, even upcoming short-term
solutions are scientifically proven to
reduce the overall greenhouse gas output.
For more information, contact Richard
Poppitz at rpoppitz@EdinaMN.gov
or 952-826-0306.
20
PipelinePUBLIC WORKS