HomeMy WebLinkAbout2014-03-20 Meeting PacketAGENDA
CITY OF EDINA, MINNESOTA
TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION
COMMUNITY ROOM
March 20, 2014
6:00 P.M.
I. CALL TO ORDER
ROLL CALL
III. APPROVAL OF MEETING AGENDA
IV. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
A. Regular Meeting of January 16, 2014
B. Special Meeting of February 27, 2014
V. COMMUNITY COMMENT
During "Community Comment," the Transportation 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 Commission Members to respond to their comments tonight. Instead, the Commission might refer the
matter to staff for consideration at a future meeting.
VI. REPORTS/RECOMMENDATIONS
A. Ordinance Discussion: Bicycling on Sidewalks
B. Transportation Options Workshop
C. Minneapolis, Northfield and Southern (MN&S) Railway Corridor Discussion
D. Traffic Safety Committee Reports of February 5 and March 11, 2014
E. Updates
i. Student Member
ii. Bike Edina— Minutes of February 13, 2014
iii. Living Streets Working Group
iv. Communications Committee
VII. CORRESPONDENCE AND PETITIONS
Agenda / Edina Transportation Commission
March 20, 2014
Page 2
VIII. CHAIR AND COMMISSION MEMBER COMMENTS
A. Volunteer Recognition Award Nominations
IX. STAFF COMMENTS
A. Project Updates
X. 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 amplification, an interpreter, large-print documents or something else, please call 952-927-8861 72 hours in
advance of the meeting.
SCHEDULE OF UPCOMING MEETINGS/DATES/EVENTS
Thursday March 20 Regular ETC Meeting 6:00 PM COMMUNITY ROOM
Thursday April 17 Regular ETC Meeting 6:00 PM COUNCIL CHAMBERS
Thursday May 15 Regular ETC Meeting 6:00 PM COMMUNITY ROOM
Thursday June 19 Regular ETC Meeting 6:00 PM COMMUNITY ROOM
Thursday July 17 Regular ETC Meeting 6:00 PM COUNCIL CHAMBERS
Thursday August 21 Regular ETC Meeting 6:00 PM COMMUNITY ROOM
Thursday September 18 Regular ETC Meeting 6:00 PM COMMUNITY ROOM
Thursday October 16 Regular ETC Meeting 6:00 PM COUNCIL CHAMBERS
G: \Engineering \Infrastructure \Streets \Traffic \TRAMP COMM \Agendas & RR's \ 2014 Agendas\ 20140320 Agenda.docx
February 13, 2014 Meeting Notes
Present: Don Eyberg, Sally Dunn, Jennifer Janovy, Peter Kelley, Lori Richman
Absent: Rob Erickson, Larry Olson, Brad Schaeppi, Tim Sudeith
Guests: Nick Mason, BikeMN, Karen Bailor
Recorded by: Sally Dunn
I. Meeting called to order at 7:30 p.m.
II. Action items — None
III. Discussion Items
a. Active Transportation Education and Bike Parking Plan — Nick Mason
from BikeMN attended to discuss the draft Edina Active Transportation
Education and Bike Parking Plan developed by BikeMN, under contract
with Bloomington Public Health. The plan grew out of a Bikeable
Community Workshop held in Edina in October 2013. The plan identifies
goals related to Active Routes to School education, increasing the number
of certified local bicycle safety instructors, launching a public education
campaign to promote active transportation, outreach events, and bike
parking. Bike Edina is identified as the lead on goals related to increasing
the number of certified local bicycle safety instructors and organizing
group rides, and co-lead on the goal of modifying the biking and parking
on sidewalks ordinance. The group discussed the timelines related to
these goals and made some adjustments. The group also discussed
whether the goals could be incorporated into current work plans.
Consensus was that they could be incorporated. Bike Edina will work with
BikeMN to schedule a Traffic Skills 101 class in the spring. This class will
1
prepare participants to take the League-certified bicycle instructor class
scheduled in Minneapolis in May or October.
b. Bicycle Friendly Community Application — Jennifer has been working on
completing the League of American Bicyclists' Bicycle Friendly Community
application, with the help of Mark Nolan and Nick Mason. Nick shared his
impressions of the draft application. Members provided additional
feedback. The application is due by February 19, 2014.
V. Updates
a. Bike Edina will meet in a joint work session with the City Council on
Tuesday, March 18, 5:00 p.m. in the Community Room at City Hall.
V. Next meeting—March 13
VI. Adjourned at 9:00 p.m.
2
REPORT / RECOMMENDATION
To: Edina Transportation Commission
From: Joe Feriancel< — Traffic Safety Coordinator
Date: March 20, 2014
Agenda Item #: VI. D.
Action
Discussion 0
Information 0
Subject: Traffic Safety Committee Reports of February 5, 2014 and March 1 I, 2014
Action Requested:
Review and recommend Traffic Safety Committee (TSC) Reports of Wednesday, February 5, 2014, and
Tuesday March 11,2014, be forwarded to City Council for approval.
Information / Background:
It is not anticipated that residents will be in attendance at the meeting regarding any of the attached issues.
An overview of the comments from the Edina Transportation Commission (ETC) will be included in the staff
report provided to Council for their April 22, 2014, meeting.
Attachments:
Traffic Safety Committee Report for February 5, 2014.
Traffic Safety Committee Report for March II, 2014.
G:\ Engineering \Infrastructure \ Streets \ Traffic \ Traffic Safety Committee \Staff Review Summaries \ 14 TSAC & Min \03-1 1-14 Cover.docx
City of Edina 4801 W. 50th St. • Edina, MN 55424
TRAFFIC SAFETY COMMITTEE REPORT
Wednesday, February 5, 2014
The Traffic Safety Committee (TSC) review of traffic safety matters occurred on February 5. The City Engineer,
Public Works Director, Transportation Planner, Traffic Safety Coordinator, Sign Coordinator, Assistant City
Planner and the Police Traffic Supervisor were in attendance for this meeting.
From these reviews, the recommendations below are provided. On each of the items, persons involved have
been contacted and 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 be included on the March 20
Edina Transportation Commission and the April 22 City Council agenda.
SECTION A:
Request on which the Committee recommends approval:
Al. Request for directional signs leading to the Normandale Lutheran Church.
This request is from the Normandale Lutheran Church. They would like to add a directional sign near
Benton Avenue and Normandale Road directing people straight ahead. Also, a second sign on West 50th
Street near the TH 100 exit ramp, directing people south towards the church.
These would not be the first Church directional signs placed in Edina; signs have been put up for Edina
Community Lutheran, Good Samaritan, and St. Albans has placed signs in the past.
City Code
Section 36-1669. Church directional signs
Church directional signs shall be permitted in all districts provided the total area of such signs shall not
exceed four square feet per facing.
Map: Sign location at corner of Benton Ave and Normandale Rd
Traffic Safety Report Page 1 of 12
February 5, 2014
Map: Sign location at corner of Eden Ave and Normandale Rd
After review the staff recommends approval of directional signs. The signs must conform to the
Minnesota Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MNMUTCD). Also, approval from MNDOT is
required if the signs are placed in their right of way.
A2. Request to add directional signs to the main entrance of Creek Valley Elementary School.
This request comes from the Creek Valley Elementary School. The school would like to add the signs to
help visitors find the main entrance of the school. They would like to add a sign for northbound traffic on
Gleason Road north of Creek Valley Road. This sign would indicate the main school entrance is ahead.
Picture: Creek Valley Elementary Directional Sign Locations
After review the staff recommends approval of a directional sign on Gleason Rd. north of Creek Valley
Rd. The sign must conform to MNMUTCD standards.
Traffic Safety Report Page 2 of 12
February 5, 2014
Map: Haze/ton Rd and Lymnar Ln
Picture: Hazelton Rd and Lymnar Ln from the east
SECTION B:
Requests on which the Committee recommends denial:
Bl. Request for a stop sign on Lynmar Lane at Hazelton Road.
This request comes from a resident living
near the intersection. The requestor
states; vehicles dangerously turn onto
Hazelton Road from Lynmar Lane at
unsafe speeds. Drivers do not pay
attention to traffic on Hazelton Road,
making drivers on Hazelton Road yield to
them to avoid collisions with pedestrians
and parked cars. The requestor would
like for a stop sign to be installed on
Lynmar Lane.
Currently this is an uncontrolled 3 way
intersection which also has a driveway to
an apartment complex on the north side.
Hazelton Road, westbound curves to the
north immediately after the intersection.
Hazelton Road is approximately 29 feet wide, with parking on both sides of the street. There is a
sidewalk on the south side of Hazelton Road. Lynmar Lane is approximately 28 feet wide, with no parking
on the west side of the street. There are two
recorded auto crashes at the intersection.
Requirements for a stop sign can be found in
the Appendix section 1A.
A 24 hour traffic count was performed at the
intersection. During the study a combined total
of 703 vehicles, bicycles, and pedestrians
entered the intersection from all approaches.
This is below the 2,000 units required. Below is
the breakdown for the daily total turning
movements at the intersection.
The total traffic from Hazelton Road and Lynmar
Lane were nearly the same, 359 and 344
respectively.
After discussion the staff recommends denying
the request for a lack of warrants.
24 Hour Traffic Study Totals
Thru Right Left U-
Turn
Peds Total
WB 77 - 211 3 3 294
EB 45 14 - 1 5 65
NB - 304 38 0 2 344
Traffic Safety Report Page 3 of 12
February 5, 2014
Map: Possible Ohms Lane Directional Sign Location
B2. Request for additional signage directing people to Ohms Lane at Metro Boulevard and 72nd Street.
This request comes from a business in
the complex at the corner of Ohms
Lane and 72 nd Street. The requestor
states that visitors to their building
are often driving all over the
commercial area and up and down
Ohms Lane trying to sort out where
7201 Ohms Lane is. The requestor
would like to add signage to or near
the W72nd Street sign at Metro
Boulevard informing drivers Ohms
Lane is to the west. This proposed
sign would simply be Ohms Lane with
an arrow.
After discussion staff recommends
denying the request.
Picture: Metro Blvd and 77'1 St
SECTION C:
Requests that are deferred to a later date:
Cl. Request for the removal of the No Right Turn on Red sign at the intersection of Parklawn and 77th
Street.
This request comes from a former City of Edina employee. The requestor does not believe the No Right
Turn on Red sign at the intersection of 77th Street and Parklawn Avenue serves any purpose. They would
like to know why the sign was installed and see the sign removed.
Traffic Safety Report Page 4 of 12
February 5, 2014
Pirtirre• 77 Ih .ct and Parklawn Ave fl.nm the 1u-will
Parklawn Avenue southbound has 2
right turn lanes and one left turn lane.
77th Street westbound has 3 lanes with
one left turn lane only. Eastbound 77th
Street has 3 lanes with 2 left turn lanes.
There is No Turn on Red signs for both
westbound 77th Street and for
southbound Parklawn Avenue. 2013
MSA traffic counts resulted in 8500
vehicles and an 85th percentile speed of
33.5 mph for Parklawn Avenue north of
77th Street. 2013 MSA traffic counts
resulted in 13000 vehicles and an 85th
percentile speed of 32 mph for 77th
Street west of Computer Avenue
There are 5 reported crashes at this
intersection since 2009.
Map: 77111 St and Parklawn Ave
This intersection was
looked at during the
December 3, 2008 traffic
safety review. At the
meeting staff
recommended denial of
the request to remove the
No Turn on Red sign at
southbound Parklawn
Avenue to westbound 77th
Street. This was based on a
previous study done on this
intersection. SRF
Consulting Group, Inc. was
contracted to study this
intersection. They felt No Turn on Red was warranted because of the dual right turn lanes and
pedestrian crosswalk SRF stated that allowing a right turn would provide little operational benefits. The
traffic signal is set-up to return to the southbound right turn movement and eastbound left turn
movement. The only time the southbound right turn should be red is during the westbound 77th Street
movement. SRF stated that if the signal timing is optimal, there should be few opportunities to turn right
on red during the heavier traffic volume times. Drivers may feel they are unnecessarily waiting during
off-peak periods, but it should only be for a short amount of time.
A traffic study was performed on this intersection. The peak hour was found to be from 4:45 to 5:45 pm.
The average delay for vehicles making a right turn on southbound Parklawn Avenue was calculated.
During the peak hour 115 vehicles stopped and 255 vehicles did not have to stop. The average delay for
vehicles which had to stop at the light was 26 seconds. The average delay for vehicles traveling
westbound of 77th Street was calculated. During the peak hour 195 vehicles stopped and 204 vehicles did
not have to stop. The average delay for vehicles which had to stop at the light was 48 seconds.
Traffic Safety Report Page 5 of 12
February 5, 2014
Map: Sunnyside Rd and Grimes Ave
Picture: Sunnyside Rd and Grimes Ave from north
After discussion the staff recommends further study of the intersection to determine if the signal
timing is optimal and to find the pedestrian impact on the intersection.
C2. Request for a painted crosswalk at the intersection of Sunnyside Road and Grimes Avenue.
This request comes from a resident who
lives in the area. The requestor states
that vehicles are not stopping for
pedestrians at the intersection of Grimes
Avenue and Sunnyside Road. There is a
stop sign on southbound Grimes Avenue.
Curb ramps exists for crosswalks as shown
in the picture. There are no recorded
crashes at the intersection.
This request was considered in the
December 4, 2013 Traffic Safety
Committee meeting. At the meeting the
staff recommended denying the request
since the intersection did not meet
minimum warrants for pedestrians
crossing in a two-hour window. After
discussion the Edina Transportation
Commission recommended looking
further into the intersection. It was brought up that there was an agreement made in the April 21, 2008
special city council meeting to install
crosswalks at this intersection.
The material for referencing the city council
decision is located in the Appendix for
review.
If it is assumed the intersection is to receive
crosswalks as a result of the city council
decision, a traffic gap study was performed to
determine the type of markings for the
crosswalk. The requirements can be found in
the Appendix section 2A.
The gap studies were done during the peak
hour of 5:15 to 6:15 pm. The average gaps
per 5 minute period for crossing Sunnyside
Road were 16.8 gaps on the west side of the
intersection and 19.1 gaps on the east side of the intersection. For over 5 gaps it is recommended to use
pavement marking and signage only.
Traffic Safety Report Page 6 of 12
February 5, 2014
After discussion the staff recommended denying the request. However, after feedback from the ETC
further pedestrian and traffic counts will be done along with discussions with the residents of the area
in the Spring of 2014.
Traffic Safety Report Page 7 of 12
February 5, 2014
APPENDIX
Sunnyside Road and Grimes Avenue
Crosswalk approval information from City Council Meetings
MINUTES OF THE SPECIAL MEETING OF THE EDINA CITY COUNCIL
HELD AT CITY HALL APRIL 21, 2008, 7:00 P.M
Mr. Houle called to the Council's attention the Edina Transportation Commission's Resolution calling for
approval of the NE Edina Transportation Study Residential Safety Improvements, adopted by the Commission at
their meeting April 17, 2008.
Public Comment
Mayor hovland stated his intent of calling upon Bruce Christensen to give an overview of the proposed
compromise plan as per the e-mail sent April 21, 2008 from Bruce Chistensen to the Mayor and Council. An
excerpt of the e-mail detailing elements of the proposed compromise follows;
"4/18/08 — Proposed Compromise Traffic Plan
1. Elimination of all speed humps, horizontal street adjustments (street re-alignments, chokers, one-way
triangles, etc). This will have a dramatic impact in reducing signage requirements.
2. Preserve the vast majority of pedestrian safety improvements. With a few minor exceptions described
in number 4 below. Given that the realignment is not supported by the survey, the paver crosswalks
should use existing curb cuts/boulevard connection, paths to sidewalk where possible. Paver
selection & design biased toward minimum noise pollution.
3. Install 1 1/8th inch raised paver crosswalk at all entry points to the neighborhood. These raised
crosswalks will signal drivers entering the neighborhood to slow down, and yet will not require
additional signage when placed near stop signs. The raised crosswalks would occur at the following
intersections: Country Club Road & Arden, Country Club Road & Bruce, Country Club Road &
Wooddale, Wooddale & Sunnyside, Browndale & Sunnyside, on Sunnyside at Arden. Not certain
where Country Club & Browndale. Conditions of acceptance include — no signage requirement and
approval by Fire Chief & School District (school bus drivers).
4. We don't believe in using the islands at Wooddale & Country Club, Wooddale & Sunnyside, Edina
Blvd. & Sunnyside, Drexel & Sunnyside, Casco & Sunnyside for pedestrian crosswalks. We'd prefer
use of existing walks on north side of Sunnyside and south side of Country Club. Our reasoning is as
follows:
a. Safety — this requires crossing two streets versus one.
b. Maintenance of the island and walkways may not occur.
c. Natural pedestrian traffic is to the north side of Sunnyside and south side of Country Club
roads.
d. Loss of green space.
e. Impairment of historic asset.
5. We also agreed that the City should reduce neighborhood speed limit to 25 mph."
Jennifer Janovy, 4616 Inglewood Avenue, speaking on behalf of the Morningside Neighborhood Association
Steering Committee, read a statement and used graphics to depict the Morningside area responses to the
comment cards. She stated they do not support the North East Edina Transportation Study Residential Safety
improvements, and asked that all vertical measures be removed from the Traffic Safety Improvements, Ms.
Janovey outlined the improvements her group wished to have maintained; the sidewalks on the north side of
42nd from Oakdale to France and on Grimes from 42nd to Inglewood, the crosswalk on Sunnyside at Grimes,
and the center island with mid-block crosswalk on W 44th at Kojetin Park. They requested that the following be
added: sidewalk on France Avenue from 47th to Sunnyside and a stop sign at the crosswalk on Sunnyside at
Traffic Safety Report Page 8 of 12
February 5, 2014
ENNA
PANNESOTA SEWER, WATECRWAr6MYSTWEll AtRONSTRLICTION
RES.IDENT4.1. ifiC A "i,FETY iRfft0UENV'i
SLY4tlYSIDE ROAD AT BRUCE AVE.
Attl)Erl AVE, 6 61,1f.E5 AVE
aaRbtj.;,63
SEH Jtdfc,
P.O.
14
Grimes. They would like more police presence. Ms. Janovey said the steering committee supported the
alternative proposal and pointed out they did not favor raised crosswalks.
Member Housh moved that the Council accept the compromise plan presented by the Country representatives
provided that i.) Sidewalks be installed across existing islands as recommended by the Northeast Edina Traffic
Study, ii.) The final location of crosswalks be determined by the City Engineer based upon the conceptual
locations shown in the compromise plan, and iii.) the proposed reduction in speed limits to 25 mph be deferred
to a later date. Further, i.) all recommended vertical and horizontal realignments of streets in the northeast
Edina study area outside of the Country Club district be deleted as planned improvements provided that ii.)
Pedestrian-related improvements in this area be pursued at the appropriate time. Further, pedestrian-related
improvements for the Morningside area be undertaken per the recommendations of the Morningside
Neighborhood Association with the understanding that the stop signs proposed for the Grimes and Sunnyside
intersection will be referred to the Traffic Safety Committee for review and recommendation.
The NE Edina Feasibility Study does not specifically state there will be a crosswalk at the intersection. In
Appendix D — SHE Feasibility Study Concept Example; a map shows crosswalks at the intersection of Sunnyside
Road and Grimes Avenue, but it is stated on the map (subject to change during implementation and design
process.)
The Master Plan shows a traffic circle being installed at the intersection of Sunnyside Rd and Grimes Ave.
A close up of the proposed improvements to the intersection is shown below.
VeAr.C.204,-M.3/..1,3n 011CRIMN.111......1114.ECS %IP
Picture: Safety improvements at Sunnyside and Grimes from 12-4-07 public hearing
Traffic Safety Report Page 9 of 12
February 5, 2014
a ••1
41 )7,
Legend
• Combined Measure (Re quires 30' strc-et width)
Speed Hump Or speed table
Raised Crosswalk
Center Island Narrowirg
n ••••••• Choker
0 Realigned Intersection
Traffic Circle
Raised Intersection
Sidewalk Connection
Northeast Edina
GOALS:
• Reduce diversion of traffic through the neighborhood
• Keep vehicle speeds In neighborhood at, or below, the
posted speed limits
• Enhance pedestrian/non-motorized travel and safety
ASSUMPTIONS:
• No physical prohibition of through movement
• No verb
•
City desical shifts on collector streets
res roadways to be no narrower than 26-feet
11.1
N:\
(Cl
W.
2 II.'
100
NOM: Trio final loco ion and design of each measure is required
RESIDENTIAL AREA SAFETY IMPROVEMENT MASTER PLAN Figure 10 NORTHEAST EDINA TRANSPORTATION STUDY REPORT
Picture: Residential Area Safety Improvement Master Plan — Figure 10 Sunnyside and Grimes
Traffic Safety Report Page 10 of 12
February 5, 2014
Appendix
Guidance for the installation of Local Traffic Control Signs
City of Edina Local Traffic Control
1A. (MNMUTCD 2B.4) YIELD or STOP signs should be used at an intersection if one of more of the following
conditions exist;
A. An intersection of a less important road with a main road where application of the normal right-of-
way rule would not be expected to provide reasonable compliance with the law;
B. A street entering a designated through highway or street; and/or
C. An un-signalized intersection in a signalized area.
In addition, the use of YIELD or STOP signs should be considered at the intersection of two minor streets or
local roads where the intersection has more than three approaches and where one or more of the
following conditions exist:
A. The combined vehicular, bicycle, and pedestrian volume entering the intersection from all approaches
averages more the 2,000 units per day;
B. The ability to see conflicting traffic on an approach is not sufficient to allow a road user to stop or
yield in compliance with the normal right-of-way rule if such stopping or yielding is necessary; and/or
C. Crash records indicate that five or more crashes that involve the failure to yield the right-of-way rule
have been reported within a 3-year period, or that three or more such crashes have been reported
within a 2-year period.
YIELD or STOP signs should not be used for speed control.
2A. (Edina Local Traffic Control Policy) Marked Pedestrian Crosswalks
A. Marked crosswalks are placed at locations that are unusually hazardous or at locations not readily
apparent as having pedestrian movement.
B. Marked crosswalks will only be placed in an area that has in excess of 20 pedestrians crossing for a
minimum of two hours during any eight hour period.
C. Marking for crosswalks will be established by measuring the "Vehicle Gap Time". This is the total
number of gaps between vehicular traffic recorded during the average five minute period in the peak
hour. Criteria for markings are:
1. More than five gaps — Pavement marking and signage only.
2. Four to five gaps — add activated pedestal mounted flasher
3. Less than three gaps — add activated overhead mounted flasher.
D. Crosswalks will not be placed on arterial roads or roads with a speed limit greater than 30 mph unless
in conjunction with signalization.
E. Other conditions that warrant crosswalks:
1. Routes to schools
2. Locations adjacent to libraries, community centers, and other high use public facilities.
3. Locations adjacent to public parks.
4. Locations where significant numbers of handicapped persons cross a street.
5. Locations where significant numbers of senior citizens cross a street.
F. Crosswalks will only be placed at intersections.
Traffic Safety Report Page 11 of 12
February 5, 2014
5A. (MNMUTCD 2B.54) No Turn on Red signs
If used, the NO TURN ON RED sign should be installed near the appropriate signal head.
A NO TURN ON RED sign should be considered when an engineering study finds that one or more of the
following conditions exists.
A. Inadequate sight distance to vehicles approaching from the left (or right if applicable);
B. Geometrics or operational characteristics of the intersection that might result in unexpected conflicts;
C. An exclusive pedestrian phase;
D. An unacceptable number of pedestrian conflicts with right-on-red maneuvers, especially involving
children, older pedestrians, or persons with disabilities; and
E. More than three right-turn-on red accidents reported in a 12-month period for the particular
approach.
F. The skew angle of the intersecting roadways creates difficulty for drivers to see traffic approaching
from their left.
Traffic Safety Report Page 12 of 12
February 5, 2014
TRAFFIC SAFETY COMMITTEE REPORT
Tuesday, March 11, 2014
The Traffic Safety Committee (TSC) review of traffic safety matters occurred on March 11. The City Engineer,
Public Works Director, Transportation Planner, Traffic Safety Coordinator, Sign Coordinator, and the Assistant
City Planner were in attendance for this meeting.
From these reviews, the recommendations below are provided. On each of the items, persons involved have
been contacted and 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 be included on the March 20
Edina Transportation Commission and the April 22 City Council agenda.
SECTION A:
Request on which the Committee recommends approval:
Al. Request to make the intersection of Beard Avenue and 57" Street an All-Way stop, or to switch the
current stop signs from 57th Street to Beard Avenue.
This request comes from a resident of the
neighborhood. The requestor states; vehicles
run through the stop sign at 57th Street and
Beard Avenue. This intersection is at the
bottom of a hill and the requestor is worried
of the safety issue of vehicles running the stop
sign and the high amount of children who play
in the area. The requestor would either like to
switch the street the stop signs are located on,
or make the intersection an All-Way stop.
Currently there are stop signs located on 57th
Street for eastbound traffic. As can be seen in
the Traffic Control Map, there are All-Way
stops 1 block to the west and 1 block to the
south. Also, Chowen Park is 1 block to the
west from the intersection. There is a Stop
Ahead sign for eastbound traffic as can be
seen in the picture. There is 1 recorded auto
crash at the intersection, from 2001.
The requirements for a Multi-Way Stop are Map: Beard Ave and 57" St Traffic Control
located in the Appendix section 1B.
A 24 hour video traffic study was performed on the intersection. There were a total of 516 vehicles
entering the intersection, 314 on 57th Street and 202 on Beard Avenue. There were a total of 62
pedestrians entering the intersection. During the study 19 vehicles did not stop for the stop signs on
Traffic Safety Report
March 11,2014
Page 1 of 7
Picture: Sunnyside Rd and Wooddale Ave facing west
Map: Sunnyside Road and Wooddale Avenue
57th Street, which is 6 percent of the vehicles. Of
the 19 vehicles not stopping, 16 were
westbound, which is 16 percent of the WB
vehicles.
After discussion the staff recommends the
placement of an advanced stop ahead sign for
westbound traffic. Also, the data from the
intersection will be forwarded to the Edina
Police Department for enforcement.
Picture: Beard Ave and 57 th St from the west
A2. Request to make the stop signs at the intersection of Sunnyside Road and Wooddale Avenue stand
out.
This request comes from a resident who
lives near the intersection. The
requestor states; vehicles ignore the
stop signs at the intersection of
Sunnyside Road and Wooddale Avenue.
Specifically the vehicles go through
westbound stop signs when making a
right turn onto Wooddale Avenue. The
requestor would like something to be
done to make the stop signs stand out.
Currently there are stop signs on all
three legs of the Sunnyside Road and
Wooddale Avenue intersection.
There are brick inlayed
crosswalks on the west and
north sides of the intersection as
can be seen in the map below.
The turning movements of the
intersection are in the table
below, Wooddale Avenue had a
total of 1135 vehicles and
Sunnyside Road had a total of
2021 vehicles. There are no
recorded crashes at the
intersection.
Traffic Safety Report Page 2 of 7
March 11, 2014
Sunnyside Road and Wooddale Avenue
Turning Movements
SB WB EB
Right Left U Turn Total Right Thru U Turn Total Thru Left U Turn Total
885 244 6 1135 318 498 1 817 487 717 0 1204
Wooddale Avenue Total = 1135 Sunnyside Road Total = 2021
After the discussion the staff recommends adding red reflective strips to the stop sign posts at the
intersection to increase visibility. Also, the Edina Police Department will be notified regarding
enforcement of vehicles not stopping at the intersection.
SECTION B:
Requests on which the Committee recommends denial:
131. Request to make Mavelle Drive No Parking on one side of the street between Cornelia Drive and
Glouchester Avenue during the winter, and during the school pickup hours.
This request comes from a
resident living in the area. The
requestor states; Mavelle Drive
between Cornelia Drive and
Glouchester Avenue becomes
too narrow in the winter for two
vehicles to safely use the road.
This issue is increased during
the school drop off hours. The
requestor would like to make
Mavelle Drive No Parking on
one side of the street between
Cornelia Drive and Glouchester
Avenue during the winter, and
possibly during the school
hours.
Map: Mavelle Dr between Cornelia Dr and Glouchester Ave
This street is across from the Cornelia School.
There are no recorded crashes on this stretch of
road. A traffic count of Sandell Avenue to the
east resulted in an ADT of 353 vehicles with an
85th percentile speed of 24.5 mph. However,
this may not necessarily be an accurate
representation of Mavelle Drive, being 4 blocks
to the east of the stretch of roadway being
considered.
Requirements for Parking Restrictions are
located in the Appendix section 3A.
Traffic Safety Report
March 11, 2014
Picture: Mavelle Dr looking east
Page 3 of 7
Mavelle Drive is 31 feet from back of curb to back of curb. Measurements were taken on Feb. 18th, and
22 feet of roadway was passable due to the snow piles on the sides of the road.
After discussion the staff recommends denying the request. Staff believes the street width is
adequate (and typical of Edina local streets) and that there is unusually heavy snow accumulation at
this time.
SECTION C:
Requests that are deferred to a later date:
Cl. Request to add permanent speed bumps to the Pamela Park Drive off of 62'd Street.
Residents have expressed concern over the
volume and speed of vehicles traveling on the
drive. This request is for the city to add speed
bumps to the Pamela Park Drive off of 62nd
Street. The speed bumps will be used as a
measurement to reduce the speed of vehicles
on the drive, which is 18 feet wide and
approximately 500 feet long.
After discussion staff recommends further
study is needed, including speed counts and to
look into the possible impact of speed humps
or tables.
Picture: Pamela Park Drive facing south
Map: Pamela Park Driveway
Traffic Safety Report Page 4 of 7
March 11, 2W4
C2. Request to add "No Truck Traffic" signs at Washington Avenue and 3rd Street.
This request comes from a resident living
near the intersection of 3rd Street and
Monroe Avenue. The resident has seen
several semi-trucks and trailers going
through this intersection and the
neighborhood. This same observation
has been made by another resident in
December 2013. The requestor would
like to see a "No Truck Traffic" sign
placed at 3rd Street and Washington
Avenue to help inform the truck drivers
not to drive on the residential streets.
Additional signs placed at the
intersections of Maloney Avenue and
Monroe Avenue, and Maloney Avenue
and Adams Avenue would further deter
semi-trucks from entering the
neighborhood.
Picture: 35t and Washinaton Ave lookina west
After discussion the staff recommends further study into the traffic issue before making a
recommendation.
Map: Proposed No Truck Traffic signs
Traffic Safety Report
Page 5 of 7
March 11, 2014
SECTION D:
Other traffic safety issues handled.
Dl. Request to look into sightlines and parking on Morningside Road and Scott Terrace. Requestor states that
it's hard to see cars coming onto Morningside Road from Scott Terrace. Scott Terrace is already no
parking on one side. Resident agreed the snowbanks were the major factor and didn't request any
action be taken.
D2. Request to change sign from "van parking only" to "Vernon Terrace parking". Requestor was informed
the City of Edina does not control signs in private parking lots.
Traffic Safety Report
March 11, 2014
Page 6 of 7
Appendix
Guidance for the installation of Local Traffic Control Signs
City of Edina Local Traffic Control
1B. (MNMUTCD 2B.7) Multi-Way STOP
The following criteria should be considered in the engineering study for a multi-way STOP sign installation:
A. Where traffic control signals are justified, the multi-way stop is an interim measure that can be
installed quickly to control traffic while arrangements are being made for the installation of the traffic
control signal.
B. Five or more reported crashes in a 12-month period that are susceptible to correction by a multi-way
stop installation. Such crashes include right-turn and left-turn collisions as well as right-angle collisions.
C. Minimum volumes:
1. The vehicular volume entering the intersection from the major street approaches (total of both
approaches) averages at least 300 vehicles per hour for any 8 hours of an average day; and
2. The combined vehicular, pedestrian, and bicycle volume entering the intersection from the minor
street approaches (total of both approaches) averages at least 200 units per hour for the same 8
hours, with an average delay to minor-street vehicular traffic of at least 30 seconds per vehicle
during the highest hour; but
3. If the 85th-percentile approach speed of the major-street traffic exceeds 40 mph, the minimum
vehicular volume warrants are 70 percent of the values provided in Items l and 2.
D. Where no single criterion is satisfied, but where Criteria B, C.1, and C.2 are all satisfied to 80 percent of
the minimum values. Criterion C.3 is excluded from this condition.
Other criteria that may be considered in an engineering study include:
A. The need to control left-turn conflicts;
B. The need to control vehicle/pedestrian conflicts near locations that generate high pedestrian volumes;
C. Locations where a road user, after stopping, cannot see conflicting traffic and is not able to negotiate
the intersection unless conflicting cross traffic is also required to stop; and
D. An intersection of two residential neighborhood collector (through) streets of similar design and
operating characteristics where multi-way stop control would improve traffic operational
characteristics of the intersection.
3A. Parking Restrictions
The purpose of the on-street parking policy is to enhance the safety of drivers and pedestrians, as well as to
allow for effective parking capacities at times when parking is in high demand.
Parking restrictions may be warranted in the following conditions:
A. Identified bus stops.
B. Prohibiting parking near an intersection to improve sight lines.
C. Where the street is too narrow to allow safe passage if parking is permitted.
D. On collector and arterial streets if the curb lane is required for thru traffic during peak periods.
E. In conjunction with school and pedestrian crosswalks.
F. In conjunction with turning lanes and other lane restrictions when the curb lane is used for thru
traffic.
G. At connecting intersections to controlled access highways.
H. On roadways designed with four or more lanes.
Handicap parking is not permitted on a public street, and parking controls will not be installed for business,
commercial, or industrial interest when it would adversely affect normal residential parking.
Traffic Safety Report Page 7 of 7
March 11, 2014
REPORT / RECOMMENDATION
To: Edina Transportation Commission
From: Mark K. Nolan, AICP, Transportation Planner
Date: March 20, 2014
Agenda Item #: VI. C.
Action 11
Discussion
Information El
Subject: Minneapolis, Northfield and Southern (MN&S) Railway Corridor Discussion
Action Requested:
Discuss potential issues regarding the Minneapolis, Northfield and Southern (MN&S) Railway Corridor.
Issues may include the impacts of the Southwest LRT freight rail re-route options and potential future use of
the corridor for light rail transit (LRT). If necessary, action may include making recommendations to City
Council regarding these issues.
Information / Background:
Please recall that at the October 24 ETC meeting the group Safety in the Park gave a presentation regarding
issues surrounding the Southwest LRT and potential freight rail re-route options. Their presentation
addressed the planned "southern arm" option, which runs on MN&S track through Edina (west of Highway
100). Safety in the Park discussed how the possibility exists for increased freight traffic with this option,
potentially impacting Edina neighborhoods. This was discussed at the December 19, 2013 ETC meeting.
Also recall that at the January 16, 2014 ETC meeting, Dave Christianson from the Minnesota Department of
Transportation (MnDOT) gave a presentation on regional rail (freight and SWLRT) and its current and
potential impacts to Edina neighborhoods. Additionally, at the February 27 ETC Special Meeting, members of
the community expressed a desire to study the feasibility of running LRT and/or diesel multiple unit (DMU)
passenger rail in the MN&S corridor. Currently, state law prohibits the Metropolitan Council from studying,
planning, designing or constructing passenger rail in this corridor (sometimes referred to as the "gag rule").
Attachments:
October 24, 2013 Safety in the Park Presentation (slides 18-30)
January 16, 2014 MnDOT Regional Rail Update Presentation
G: \ Engineering \ Infrastructure \ Streets\Traffic \TRANSP COMM \ Agendas & RR's\2014 R&R \20140320\ Item VI.C. MN-S Railway Corridor Discussion.docx
City of Edina • 4801 W. 50th St. • Edina, MN 55424
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An important component that affects Edina
directly is the planned "Southern Arm".
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The Southern Arm would replace a "switching wye" in St.
Louis Park that enables trains to change direction from
East/West to North/South and vice versa. It's a
cumbersome procedure, rarely utilized.
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As part of the SWLRT plan the switching wye may be
replaced by a southern arm to accomplish the same task-
changing direction.
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The SLP City Council favors the southern arm because it eliminates the
switching wye and because it removes several light industrial buildings
making way for more dense economic development and a more southerly
Louisiana LRT station. The cost of the southern arm is estimated by the Met
Council to be $30M.
www.safetyinthepark.com
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In combination with the southern arm, a "swap" is also planned.
As LRT approaches St. Louis Park from the west, the LRT track will be
"collocated" with freight rail. LRT will be on the north side, freight
on the south.
The plan is to "swap" those two, placing LRT on the south and freight
on the north. Doing so is favored by SLP and Hopkins because more
land is available on the south side of the tracks creating more
economic development space and eliminating the need for LRT users
to cross the freight track to get to LRT.
www.safetyinthepark.com
3/12/2014
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The combination of the Swap and the Southern Arm is
estimated by the Met Council to cost $60M.
Only the SLP re-route (in the most recent plan) REQUIRES
these elements because building the northerly arm of the
Brunswick Central plan would wipe out the Switching Wye and
the railroad demands some way to change direction.
Therefore, the actual cost of the Brunswick Central is $260M,
not just $200M. Collocation does not require southern arm.
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While SitP's main goal is to stop an SLP re-route, we are also
concerned about the Southern Arm. Depending on market
conditions, the Southern Arm will make it possible for long,
heavy freight trains to cross several St. Louis Park roads,
including Excelsior Blvd, at grade creating safety issues. It is,
again, modifying a track that was never built for such purposes
into a mainline.
This should concern Edina as well since the MN&S travels past
churches, homes, and more in close proximity.
www.safetyinthepark.com
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How does this effect
Edina?
If market conditions
are favorable, it could
mean large increases
in freight headed to
the Minnesota River
Docks.
Most importantly, once
this is built, there is no
turning back. Federal
law protects rail lines
in perpetuity.
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If you would like to comment or learn more:
www.satetyinthepark.com
Facebook: Safety in the Park
Email: Safetyinthepark@gmail.com
wwwseetyinaleparlc com
3/12/2014
7
M,114 Regionall Rag Update
Edina Transportation Commission
January 16, 2014
3/12/2014
Southwest LRT Update
• Met Council Studies at Governor's request
• Re-examine Freight Rail Alternatives, Options
• Water Resources Protection
• Landscape/Greenscape Preservation
• Possible Resolutions early 2014
• Resolution Necessary to Preserve High Priority
Status in FTA New Starts Funding Queue
3/12/2014
What additional analysis is being done?
JANUARY 2014
New studies of freight rail options,
water resources and landscaping are
now underway in response to local
concerns.
The Metropolitan Council selected national
engineering firm TianSystems to Independently
analyze freight rail relocation options and
another national engineering firm, Burns &
McDonnell, to independently evaluate potential
impacts to water resources. Meanwhile, the
Southwest IRT Project Office is conducting a
landscape inventory.
Draft results of these three efforts are expected
to be released in late January 2014 for public
comment. Final results will be presented to the
public and to the project's advisory committees,
and will be reviewed by the Metropolitan
Council before it votes on the project scope and
budget.
The project office worked closely with technical
staff from Hennepin County, the cities of
Minneapolis and St. Louis Park, as well attire
Minnehaha Creek Watershed District, the
Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board and the
public in developing the scopes of work.
FREIGHT RAIL
The freight rail location consultant is
independently reviewing existing shags and
designs, assessing viability of location options
already considered and identifying any new
viable options based on the freight rail metrics.
WATER RESOURCES
The water resources consultant Is independently
assessing impacts of LRT construction end
operation on water levels and quality within the
Kenilworth Corridor.
LANDSCAPING/GREENSCAPING
The landscaping/greenscaping inventory is
identifying existing trees and vegetation and will
identify re.vegetation opportunities with LRT
construction in the Kenilworth Corridor.
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What makes freight rail relocation so difficult?
JANUARY 2014
Today, more trains
operate on fewer miles
of track than in the past.
With freight traffic on
many lines near capacity,
relocation options are
limited.
In Minnesota, the total length of
active freight railroads decreased
from 8,500 miles in 1980 to 4,400
miles in 2010. Over the same
period, freight tonnage increased
74% -from 140 malion to 243
million tons annually.
As freight rail companies have
merged and consolidated their
services, abandonment of tracks
has reduced freight rail lines in the
Twin Cities region from 685 to 480
route-mites.
The Twin Cities continues to be
an important part of the national
freight rail network. St. Paul freight
yards and junctions handle roughly
5% of all U.S. rail traffic.
By 2030, the Minnesota State
Rail Plan predicts an increase of
25-40% in the amount of freight
shipped by rail in the state.
FREIGHT RAIL NETWORK CHANGES
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Freight railroads are
"common carriers,"
and their services are
regulated by federal law.
The Surface Transportation Board
(STB) is the federal agency charged
with overeseeing economic impacts
on freight rail shippers and carriers.
STB approval is generally
required for changes in service,
abandonment of active freight
fines, or other changes that have
economic impacts.
To make such changes, a freight
rail carder is required to submit
an application to the SIB for their
review and approval.
The Southwest LRT Project
Office is working with freight rail
companies, the Hennepin County
Regional Railroad Authority
(HCRRA) and the STB.
1.11.EST.C.113)
Freight Rail
• TC&W experiencing moderate traffic growth,
particularly grain and ethanol via unit trains
• CP (Dan Patch or MN&S line) not expected to
change materially — weekday switch &
occasional TC&W transfers
• Major bottlenecks on CP;
rail bridges, especially
Savage Swing Bridge (TC&W)
• No prospective Crude-By-Rail moves (Bakken)
3/12/2014
3
3/12/2014
- ;xn A Sol0
Who depends on the freight rail service that passes through Kenilworth?
JANUARY 2014
The Twin Cities & Western (TC&W)
Railroad serves Minnesota and
South Dakota, and is the sole
rail service provider for 40
communities.
TC&W is a short-In& freight railroad company,
formed in 1991, that operates over 283 miles
of track in Minnesota and South Dakota. TC&W
is affiliated with the Minnesota Prairie Line and
Sisseton Milbank Railroad.
The company provides rail service to more
than SO businesses, Including 6 co-operatives
for grain and farm supplies, 2 ethanol plants,
vegetable growers and manufacturers.
Most of the freight traffic handled by TC&W is
destined for interchange in St. Paul, and is then
shipped on via Interstate rail throughout the
Midwest and the rest of the U.S.
Since the 1990s, demand for freight has led
to increases in the site of trains operated by
TC&W. The longest trains are typically 'unit
trains' carrying single-commodity shipments
such as grain, coal or ethanol. The maximum
current train size on the TC&W line is
approximately 7,600 feet.
Twin Cities & Western Railroad Company and Affiliates
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Passenger Rail
• NLX, Chicago-Twin Cities Intercity, Rochester
High Speed projects continue planning
• Federal High Speed and Intercity program in
limbo; no new authorization or funding
• State Rail Plan rewrite due by February 2015
• Mankato-Minneapolis route for intercity rail
indefinitely deferred; physical bottlenecks and
lack of local initiative or coalition are barriers
4
Shared Right-Of-Way Use
• Railroad Right-of-ways are private property
• Railroad regulation is federal prerogative
• Dan Patch R-0-W restricted in width, continuity
• Safety liabilities a major concern of railroad
• Shared use may limit future expansion, safety
buffers to accidents
3/12/2014
Quiet Zones
• 2006 Federal Train Horn & Quiet Zone rule;
CFR 49, Sections 222 and 229
• 110 decibel sound pressure level advised;
horns constitute majority of rail intrusion
• Quiet Zone procedures established
• Safety Index formula defined for 1/2 mile
corridors or greater-railroads must comply
• Quality of Life issue; communities liable for
majority of cost
5
3/12/2014
Quiet Zone Application
• Corridor safety index must be improved after
horns are silenced
• Supplemental Safety Measures (SSM's) must
be agreed to with community, railroads, state
and federal regulators
• SSM's and modified SSM's are specifically
defined in rules.
• No federal consideration for pedestrian safety
applications
• Single crossing may cost $75,000-500,000
6
Thank You!
Dave Christianson
Office of Freight and Commercial Vehicle Operations,
Minnesota Department of Transportation
MS 470, RM 120F
395 John Ireland Blvd., St. Paul, MN 55155-1800
651-366-3710 (office)
612-817-4582 (cell)
dave.christianson@state.mn.us
3/12/2014
R-O-W Fencing
• Statutory requirement that railroads fence
property not absolute
• Railroads must allow for public crossings at
convenient locations (roads, trails) but balance
of R-O-W incursions considered trespass
• Legal precedence for determining liability in
injury cases depends on preventability of
incident
7
REPORT / RECOMMENDATION
tn
0
To: Edina Transportation Commission
From: Mark K. Nolan, AICP, Transportation Planner
Date: March 20, 2014
Subject: Transportation Options Workshop
Action Requested:
No action requested.
Agenda Item #: VI. B.
Action El
Discussion
Information
Information / Background:
In April 2013 the ETC's Transportation Options Working Group recommended that the City Council
authorize PRISM Express dial-a-ride transportation to expand into the City of Edina and to include
appropriate funding, estimated in an amount of $10,000, in the 2014 budget, to cover a portion of the
operating expenses to do so. A Human Services Grant for that amount was established. However, last Fall
PRISM Express discontinued its dial-a-ride service and the Human Services Grant became unavailable.
At the December 19, 2014 ETC meeting, commissioner Whited led a discussion about transportation
options, with a focus on what steps to take (if any) to continue to look for a reasonably-priced, accessible
and flexible transportation option for residents who do not meet eligibility guidelines for other services. At
that time, the ETC decided to hold a workshop at a future meeting on this topic. Commissioner Whited will
facilitate this workshop at the March ETC meeting.
Attachments:
ETC Advisory Communication: Transportation Options Working Group Formal Recommendation
(presented to City Council on May 21, 2013)
G: \ Engineering\ Infrastructure \ Streets\ Traffic\TRANSP COMM \ Agendas & RR's\ 2014 R&R \ 20140320 \ Item VI.B. Transportation Options Workshop.docx
City of Edina 4801 W. 5001 St. Edina, MN 55424
a:T11--'01f.-ospo'ciik-mil)
Date: April 18, 2013
-4.011)).ject: Transportation Options Working Group Formal Recommendation'
Machnien6: Additional information regarding PRISM Express 8( demographics on the population
it will serve.
SituaTIon
Edina lacks a reasonable priced, accessible and flexible transportation option for residents who
do not meet eligibility guidelines for other services. This type of service is critical to enable
Edina residents to continue living in our city as they age and maintain independence.
Bacligirouracil:
The Edina Transportation Commission Transportation Options (ETC-TO) working group came
together to review current transportation options and to make recommendations on additional
transportation options for Edina residents, particularly senior and disabled citizens.
Additionally the ETC-TO will recommend partnerships and outside sources of funding to meet
these needs. The ETC-TO established an evaluation checklist to be used while they met with
and reviewed the current transit options. The ETC-TO interviewed and reviewed the current
transit options for the residents of Edina. In January 2013, two ETC-TO members made a
formal presentation of their findings to the ETC.
AssessmIrat:
The current transportation options for the residents of Edina include Metro Transit, Transit
Link, Metro Mobility and VEAP volunteer driver transportation. Some senior living buildings
have their own bus & taxi services. The ETC-TO's primary focus was assessing the services
for Edina residents who:
O are transit dependent and need to be transported in and around Edina,
O require a different option than the "big bus" because it does not provide good intra-
city circulation or door-to-door service.
O May not meet the eligibility guidelines for physical limitations or income guidelines that
other services require.
This services serves everyone from the 40 year old temporary transplant from out of the
country that Is living in Edina and needs transportation to/from work to the 80 year old that
uses a wheelchair but is not disabled enough to qualify for Metro Mobility and needs
transportation to the doctor next week. (Metro Mobility has a three week application process)
The ETC-TO did not review a taxi service because that service is not set up to serve the
population that requires a standing order or needs multiple rides a month. Taxi service is
expensive and generally is intended for the occasional ride.
The ETC-TO did not review the individual senior living buildings bus options because they are
not widely available. There are very few of these available in Edina and the vehicles operate
on a set schedule of mainly recreational transportation options and may offer one day/week
transportation to specific medical facilities.
After meeting with and reviewing the Metro Transit "big buses", Transit Link & VEAP
transportation options, the working group determined that these options are not all
encompassing because they either require a walk to access the final destination, an application
& wait period with physical requirements to ride, or have income guidelines and limitations on
destinations.
It was determined that PRISM Express is the all encompassing option for any resident in Edina
because it does not have eligibility guidelines, no application, no wait period to ride, cost to
ride is based on a sliding scale fee based on the rider's stated income, can transport riders
to/from any destination within their service area (includes 7 other adjoining cities to Edina),
vehicles are wheelchair lift-equipped, service is assistive door-to-door and is willing to grow
and coordinate with other programs.
PRISM Express has applied for the Metropolitan Council's New Freedom funding (from the
Metropolitan Council) to cover the purchase cost of a wheelchair lift-equipped bus. The
Metropolitan Area Agency on Aging funding (is set at a reimbursement per ride provided rate
of $5.80 per ride) & the rider fares will both cover the other portion of the cost to operate
PRISM Express in the City of Edina. (See attached PRISM Express Cost Share Policy with
Sliding Fee Schedule for rider fare info. On average riders pay $3.50) The true cost per ride to
operate this service is $10.98 per one way ride.
Recommendation:
ETC recommends that the council authorize PRISM Express dial-a-ride transportation to
expand into the City of Edina and to include appropriate funding, estimated in an amount of
$10,000, in the 2014 budget, to cover a portion of the operating expense to do so.
Routing
From Reviewed By To Action Requested
Courtney L.B. Whited Katherine Bass &
Tom LaForce
Wayne Houle Distribute to the Council
Place on Council agenda for
April 2013
REPORT / RECOMMENDATION
Agenda Item #: VI. A. To: Edina Transportation Commission
From: Mark K. Nolan, A1CP, Transportation Planner
Date: March 20, 2014
Subject: Ordinance Discussion: Biking on Sidewalks
Action
Discussion El
Information El
161
Action Requested:
Review, discuss and forward recommendations to City Council in the form of an advisory
communication.
Information / Background:
At the August 16, 2012 ETC meeting a discussion was held regarding the status of the Edina ordinance
prohibiting people from riding or parking a bicycle on a sidewalk in Edina. The month prior, the Bike Edina
Task Force recommended changing the ordinance to allow bicycles on sidewalks (with noted exceptions).
However, after discussion at the August 16 meeting (which included an Edina police officer) the ETC moved
to table the issue for a later date.
This issue was revisited at the next (September 20) ETC meeting, where the following motion was carried:
1. Forward the BETF memo and recommendation as background information.
2. Recommend that the City Council update Ordinance 1400.07, Subd. 3 by inserting the word
"motor" before "vehicle" so that it reads: "No motor vehicle shall be parked or driven on or
along a sidewalk."
3. Recommend that the City Council update Ordinance 1230.03G by inserting the word "motor"
before vehicle so that it reads: "...no person shall in any park or publicly owned property:
Drive or park a motor vehicle on any area not designated for parking or travel."
4. Recommend that the City Council eliminate Ordinance 1425 — Bicycle Registration.
However, this issue was never forwarded on to City Council for consideration.
The Draft Edina Active Routes to School (ARTS) Plan, which was presented to the ETC at its January 16,
2014 meeting, recommends changing the ordinance to allow people to ride on sidewalks in Edina. When this
plan was presented to City Council at its February 3 meeting, several councilmembers expressed a desire to
revisit this topic.
City of Edina • 4801 W. 506 St. • Edina, MN 55424
REPORT / RECOMMENDATION
Page 2
For reference, the following is an excerpt from the Edina City Code:
Edina Code of Ordinances
Sec. 26-6. General rules for drivers.
(a) Stop for school stop signs. Every driver of a vehicle shall stop at a sign marked "Stop, School"
before entering an intersection.
(b) Backing. No person in control of any vehicle shall back the vehicle without ample warning.
While backing, care must be exercised not to injure persons or property. In no case, shall any
vehicle be backed around a corner at or into an intersection of streets or highways.
(c) Driving or parking on sidewalk. No vehicle shall be parked or driven on or along a
sidewalk.
(d) Quiet zones. On any street in the vicinity of any hospital or other institution in which sick or
wounded persons are cared for or treated, where a sign is displayed containing the words
"Hospital, Quiet," no person shall make or cause to be made by any person, or object under
that person's control any unnecessary noise by fast driving, ringing of bells, blowing of horns,
whistles or other devices, or instruments under that person's control, or in any other way, in
such vicinity, so as to unreasonably disturb the peace, comfort or quiet of any patient of such
hospital or institution.
(Code 1970; Code 1992, § 1400.07; Ord. No. 1401; Ord, No. 1401-A1, 5-1-1974; Ord. No. 1401-A2, 3-24-
1976; Ord. No. 1401-A3, 5-12-1976; Ord. No. 1401-A4, 11-24-1976; Ord. No. 1401-A5, 3-5-1980; Ord. No.
1401-A6, 8-5-1981; Ord. No. 1401-A7, 4-28-1982; Ord. No. 613, 5-16-1990; Ord. No. 2000-7, 7-5-2000;
Ord. No. 2011-19, 12-6-2011; Ord. No. 2012-11, 5-1-2012)
Attachments:
Minnesota State Statute 169.222 Operation of a Bicycle
Bike Edina Task Force Bike Ordinance Memo dated July 14, 2012
Meeting Minutes from August 16, 2012 ETC Meeting
Meeting Minutes from September 20, 2012 ETC Meeting
Draft Active Routes to School Plan, pages 27-28
G:\ Engineering \ Infrasiructure\Streets \Traffic \ TRANSP COMM\ Agendas & RR's \2014 R&R \ 20140320 \ Item VIA. Ordinance Discussion - Biking on Sidewalks.docx
1 MINNESOTA STATUTES 2013 169.222
169.222 OPERATION OF BICYCLE.
Subdivision 1. Traffic laws apply. Every person operating a bicycle shall have all of the
rights and duties applicable to the driver of any other vehicle by this chapter, except in respect to
those provisions in this chapter relating expressly to bicycles and in respect to those provisions of
this chapter which by their nature cannot reasonably be applied to bicycles.
Subd. 2. Manner and number riding. No bicycle, including a tandem bicycle, cargo or
utility bicycle, or trailer, shall be used to carry more persons at one time than the number for
which it is designed and equipped, except an adult rider may carry a child in a seat designed for
carrying children that is securely attached to the bicycle.
Subd. 3. Clinging to vehicle. Persons riding upon any bicycle, coaster, roller skates,
toboggan, sled, skateboard, or toy vehicle shall not attach the same or themselves to any street car
or vehicle upon a roadway.
Subd. 4. Riding rules. (a) Every person operating a bicycle upon a roadway shall ride
as close as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge of the roadway except under any of the
following situations:
(1) when overtaking and passing another vehicle proceeding in the same direction;
(2) when preparing for a left turn at an intersection or into a private road or driveway;
(3) when reasonably necessary to avoid conditions, including fixed or moving objects,
vehicles, pedestrians, animals, surface hazards, or narrow width lanes, that make it unsafe to
continue along the right-hand curb or edge; or
(4) when operating on the shoulder of a roadway or in a bicycle lane.
(b) If a bicycle is traveling on a shoulder of a roadway, the bicycle shall travel in the same
direction as adjacent vehicular traffic.
(c) Persons riding bicycles upon a roadway or shoulder shall not ride more than two abreast
and shall not impede the normal and reasonable movement of traffic and, on a laned roadway,
shall ride within a single lane.
(d) A person operating a bicycle upon a sidewalk, or across a roadway or shoulder on a
crosswalk, shall yield the right-of-way to any pedestrian and shall give an audible signal when
necessary before overtaking and passing any pedestrian. No person shall ride a bicycle upon a
sidewalk within a business district unless permitted by local authorities. Local authorities may
prohibit the operation of bicycles on any sidewalk or crosswalk under their jurisdiction.
(e) An individual operating a bicycle or other vehicle on a bikeway shall leave a safe distance
when overtaking a bicycle or individual proceeding in the same direction on the bikeway, and
shall maintain clearance until safely past the overtaken bicycle or individual.
(f) A person lawfully operating a bicycle on a sidewalk, or across a roadway or shoulder
on a crosswalk, shall have all the rights and duties applicable to a pedestrian under the same
circumstances.
(g) A person may operate an electric-assisted bicycle on the shoulder of a roadway, on a
bikeway, or on a bicycle trail if not otherwise prohibited under section 85.015, subdivision ld;
85.018, subdivision 2, paragraph (d); or 160.263, subdivision 2, paragraph (b), as applicable.
Copyright 0 2013 by the Office of the Revisor of Statutes, State of Minnesota. All Rights Reserved.
2
MINNESOTA STATUTES 2013 169.222
Subd. 5. Carrying articles. No person operating a bicycle shall carry any package, bundle,
or article which prevents the driver from keeping at least one hand upon the handle bars or from
properly operating the brakes of the bicycle.
Subd. 6. Bicycle equipment. (a) No person shall operate a bicycle at nighttime unless
the bicycle or its operator is equipped with (1) a lamp which emits a white light visible from
a distance of at least 500 feet to the front; and (2) a red reflector of a type approved by the
Department of Public Safety which is visible from all distances from 100 feet to 600 feet to the
rear when directly in front of lawful lower beams of headlamps on a motor vehicle. A bicycle
equipped with lamps that are visible from a distance of at least 500 feet from both the front and
the rear is deemed to fully comply with this paragraph.
(b) No person may operate a bicycle at any time when there is not sufficient light to render
persons and vehicles on the highway clearly discernible at a distance of 500 feet ahead unless
the bicycle or its operator is equipped with reflective surfaces that shall be visible during the
hours of darkness from 600 feet when viewed.in front of lawful lower beams of headlamps on
a motor vehicle. The reflective surfaces shall include reflective materials on each side of each
pedal to indicate their presence from the front or the rear and with a minimum of 20 square inches
of reflective material on each side of the bicycle or its operator. Any bicycle equipped with side
reflectors as required by regulations for new bicycles prescribed by the United States Consumer
Product Safety Commission shall be considered to meet the requirements for side reflectorization
contained in this subdivision.
(c) A bicycle may be equipped with a front lamp that emits a white flashing signal, or a rear
lamp that emits a red flashing signal, or both.
(d) A bicycle may be equipped with tires having studs, spikes, or other protuberances
designed to increase traction.
(e) No person shall operate a bicycle unless it is equipped with a rear brake or front and rear
brakes which will enable the operator to make a braked wheel skid on dry, level, clean pavement.
A bicycle equipped with a direct or fixed gear that can make the rear wheel skid on thy, level,
clean pavement shall be deemed to fully comply with this paragraph.
(f) A bicycle may be equipped with a horn or bell designed to alert motor vehicles, other
bicycles, and pedestrians of the bicycle's presence.
(g) No person shall operate upon a highway any two-wheeled bicycle equipped with
handlebars so raised that the operator must elevate the hands above the level of the shoulders in
order to grasp the normal steering grip area.
(h) No person shall operate upon a highway any bicycle which is of such a size as to prevent
the operator from stopping the bicycle, supporting it with at least one foot on the highway surface
and restarting in a safe marmer.
Subd. 6a. Operator age. No person under the age of 15 shall operate an electric-assisted
bicycle.
Subd. 7. Sale with reflectors and other equipment. (a) No person shall sell or offer for
sale any new bicycle unless it is equipped with reflectors and other equipment as required by
subdivision 6, paragraphs (b) and (e) and by applicable regulations for new bicycles prescribed
by the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission.
Copyright 2013 by the Office of the Revisor of Statutes, State of Minnesota. All Rights Reserved.
3 MINNESOTA STATUTES 2013 169.222
(b) Notwithstanding paragraph (a), a new bicycle may be sold or offered for sale without
pedals if the bicycle otherwise meets the requirements of paragraph (a).
Subd. 8. Turning, lane change. An arm signal to turn right or left shall be given continuously
during the last 100 feet traveled by the bicycle before turning, unless the arm is needed to control
the bicycle, and shall be given while the bicycle is stopped waiting to turn.
Subd. 9. Bicycle parking. (a) A person may park a bicycle on a sidewalk unless prohibited
or restricted by local authorities. A bicycle parked on a sidewalk shall not impede the normal and
reasonable movement of pedestrian or other traffic.
(b) A bicycle may be parked on a roadway at any location where parking is allowed if it is
parked in such a manner that it does not obstruct the movement of a legally parked motor vehicle.
Subd. 10. Bicycle events. (a) Bicycle events, parades, contests, or racing on a highway
shall not be unlawful when approved by state or local authorities having jurisdiction over that
highway. Approval shall be granted only under conditions which assure reasonable safety for all
participants, spectators and other highway users, and which prevent unreasonable interference
with traffic flow which would seriously inconvenience other highway users.
(b) By agreement with the approving authority, participants in an approved bicycle highway
event may be exempted from compliance with any traffic laws otherwise applicable thereto,
provided that traffic control is adequate to assure the safety of all highway users.
Subd. 11. Peace officer operating bicycle. The provisions of this section governing operation
of bicycles do not apply to bicycles operated by peace officers while performing their duties.
History: 1978 c 739 s 12; 1986 c 444; 1987 c 255 s 14; 1993 c 326 art 4 s 2; art 7 s 2; 1995
c 72 s 2; 2012 c 287 art 3 s 29-31; art 4 s 20; 2013 c 127s 31-34
Copyright Ci 2013 by the Office of the Revisor of Statutes, State of Minnesota. All Rights Reserved.
EDINA BIKE ORDINANCE MEMO
SITUATION
Edina ordinance 1400.07, Subd, 3 prohibits people from riding or parking a bicycle on a sidewalk in
Edina.
Edina ordinance Section 1425 requires registration of bicycles,
BACKGROUND
Bicycles on sidewalks—Local ordinance
Edina ordinance 1400,07, Subd. 3 reads: "No vehicle shall be parked or driven on or along a
sidewalk."
A bicycle is a vehicle according to MN statute, Local ordinance therefore prohibits people from
riding or parking a bicycle on a sidewalk
City code defines a sidewalk as "An improved thoroughfare located in the public right-of-way or
public easement limited to usage by pedestrians and non-motorized vehicles."
Park pathways are shown in the Comprehensive Plan in Figure 7.1 I Bicycle Facilities, Some park
pathways, such as those at Bredesen and most of the Promenade, have separate bicycle and
pedestrian facilities. Other park pathways, such as those around Rosland Park, Centennial Lakes,
and parts of the Promenade, are shared by bicycles and pedestrians. Sections of some park
pathways open to bicyclists appear to be in the right-of-way, and therefore fall into the definition of
sidewalk.
The bituminous path along Highway 100 west frontage road is classified as a sidewalk, although it
has the appearance to many of a side path or park pathway.
The Transportation chapter ofthe Comprehensive Plan does not discuss bicycling on sidewalks
directly, but notes: "Sidewalks and paths provide safe movement for individuals of all ages, decrease
the dependency on motor vehicles, and encourage active lifestyles. An effective municipal sidewalk
system provides network continuity such that there is broad geographic coverage for a range of
users and uses, without notable gaps" (p, 33-34).
Bicycles on sidewalks—State statute and surrounding communities
State statute allows people to ride or park their bike on a sidewalk, except in business districts,
unless prohibited by local authorities. Edina ordinance prohibits riding or parking a bike on a
sidewalk. All surrounding communities appear to allow people to ride or park on the sidewalk, with
some restrictions.
State statute does not allow people to ride their bikes on sidewalks in business districts, unless
permitted by local authorities. Edina does not permit riding on sidewalks in business districts.
Bicycle registration
Edina ordinance section 1425 requires bicycles in Edina to be registered. The ordinance references
a state statute that has been repealed. There appears to be no process for registering bicycles in
Edina.
7/14/12 1
ANALYSIS
Bicycles on sidewalks generally
The dangers of riding a bicycle on a sidewalk are well documented. These dangers are largely
related to cyclist behavior—for example, riding too fast, not yielding to pedestrians, and not
pausing and looking before crossing a driveway or entering a street. Because the dangers are
related to behavior, they can be influenced through education.
Police departments are a highly trusted source for information about bicycling and traffic safety.
People of all ages and apparent skill levels are observed riding on sidewalks in Edina. Edina Police,
however, are limited in their ability to educate the public about how to ride on the sidewalk safely
because sidewalk riding is prohibited by code.
As cycling increases in Edina, there is an immediate need to educate the public about safe riding
behaviors, including common situations where pedestrians and cyclists mix.
Cyclists, pedestrians and motorists share the same space on most streets in Edina. Cyclists and
pedestrians share the same space on some park pathways. Although it is not allowed, cyclists and
pedestrians currently share the same space on public sidewalks.
It is assumed the prohibition against riding on sidewalks is not widely known nor widely enforced.
This raises a few questions. First, if this ordinance were widely known, would it have public
support? Second, in the most common situations, would this ordinance be reasonable to enforce?
For example, would it be reasonable to stop or cite a child for riding on the sidewalk in front of
her house or a student riding on the sidewalk on his way to school? An ordinance that would be
unreasonable to enforce in the most common situations deserves a second look.
The reasons to allow sidewalk riding are summed up in an October 2011 Los Angeles Department
of Transportation memo. LA looked at whether the city should ban bicycles from sidewalks and
concluded that banning bicycles from using sidewalks "is a poor option to revising and enforcing a
new ordinance." Their reasons to allow bicycles to use sidewalks apply to Edina as well.
The memo includes suggested ordinance requirements that not only provide a basis for public
education but also promote safe sidewalk riding behaviors. These requirements are:
• Must provide the right of way to all pedestrians and slow to a walking pace of not more
than 3 miles per hour;
o Provide an audible signal—vocal or mechanical—to pedestrians to alert them to their
presence;
o Slow to a walking pace at driveways; and
o Slow to a walking pace when entering an intersection;
o Reestablish provisions for banning bicycles from sidewalks in business districts or heavily
congested pedestrian corridors.
Ordinance options
City code section 1400.07, subdivision 3, can be modified by inserting the word "motor" so that
the ordinance reads: "No motor vehicle shall be parked or driven on or along a sidewalk"
This would allow bicycles to operate and park on the sidewalk as they are doing now.
7/14/12 2
Additional language can be added to the code to provide a basis for public education and promote
safe sidewalk riding behaviors, This additional language is suggested below.
Bicycles on sidewalks in business districts
MN statute 169.222, Subd. 4 (d) prohibits riding a bike on a sidewalk in a business district unless
permitted by local authorities,
A business district is defined as: "the territory contiguous to and including a highway when 50
percent or more of the frontage thereon for a distance of 300 feet or more is occupied by
buildings in use for business" (169.011, Subd. 13).
Business districts in Edina include neighborhood commercial nodes at 44th & France, Wooddale
and Valley View, Grandview, and Cahill; 50th & France; industrial areas such as along Metro
Boulevard; and the Southdale area,
The reasons for allowing a person to ride a bicycle on a sidewalk apply in business districts as well.
That said, there are also reasons for restrictions,
Madison, WI allows bicycling on sidewalks except where buildings abut the sidewalk
(http://www.cityofmadison.com/BikeMadison/getBiking/sidewalks,cfm).
Edina could permit riding a bicycle on a sidewalk in business districts, except where a building is not
set back from the sidewalk. This would prohibit riding a bicycle on a sidewalk at 50th & France,
where there is a lot of pedestrian activity, but permit riding a bicycle on the sidewalk in business
districts with very little pedestrian activity. Edina ordinance could also restrict sidewalk riding where
posted.
Bicycle registration
Edina's bicycle registration ordinance references a state statute that has been repealed. There
appears to be no process for registering a bicycle in Edina and the requirement to register a bicycle
appears not to be enforced.
Sidewalk riding permitted, not promoted
There are important differences between permitting sidewalk riding and promoting it. While it is
reasonable to ride on the sidewalk in some situations, the preferred place for bicycles is on the
road. The City should continue to develop the on-road network of dedicated bicycle facilities,
Public education should continue to emphasize that, as vehicles, bicycles have the right to use the
road. The product of public education and facilities designed to encourage on-road cycling is a
wider range of cyclists who perceive our roads as safe and fewer cyclists who feel the need to ride
on the sidewalk. Those who continue to use the sidewalk will benefit from education on how to
do it safely. The basis for this education can be provided in a revised bicycle ordinance.
7/14/12 3
RECOMMENDATION
The BETF recommends that the City update City code to permit the operation and parking of
bicycles on all City sidewalks, including in business districts, subject to certain restrictions.
A person may operate a bicycle on a public sidewalk including in a business district, subject to the
following restrictions:
O Yield to pedestrians (ss 169.222, subd, 4)
• Give audible signal to pedestrians before passing (ss 169.222, subd. 4)
• Slow to walking pace when pedestrians are present
O Slow to walking pace upon approach to and when crossing a driveway or intersection; enter
driveway or intersection only when clear of traffic
O No riding on sidewalks in locations where buildings abut the sidewalk
O No riding on sidewalks where posted
O Bicycle parking must not obstruct pedestrian or vehicle travel (ss 169,222, subd, 9)
O No bicycle parking where posted (ss 169,222, subd. 9)
The BETF recommends that the City repeal City code Section 1425 — Registration of Bicycles.
References
Edina ordinance 1400.07 General Rules for Drivers.
Subd. 3: Driving or Parking on Sidewalk No vehicle shall be parked or driven on or along a
sidewalk,
Edina ordinance Section 1425 — Registration of Bicycles
1425.01 Adoption of State Law, There is hereby adopted and incorporated herein by
reference, as a provision of this Code, the provisions of M.S. Chapter I 68C relating to bicycle
registration, except as such provisions may be made more restrictive by this Section.
1425.02 Bicycle Registration Required, All bicycles used or ridden upon any highway, street,
alley, sidewalk or other public property within the City shall be registered in the same manner
and subject to the same regulations, fees and penalties as those voluntarily registered pursuant
to M.S. Chapter 168C.
1425.03 Existing Permanent Licenses to Remain Valid. All existing permanent licenses granted
by the City pursuant to former Ordinance No, 1421 of the City are valid as long as the licensed
bicycles are in the possession of the original licensee.
History: Ord 1423 adopted 8-13-80
Reference: M.S. Chapter I 68C
7/14/12 4
Statute 169.222 OPERATION OF A BICYCLE
Subd. 4 (d) A person operating a bicycle upon a sidewalk, or across a roadway or shoulder
on a crosswalk, shall yield the right-of-way to any pedestrian and shall give an audible signal
when necessary before overtaking and passing any pedestrian. No person shall ride a
bicycle upon a sidewalk within a business district unless permitted by local authorities. Local
authorities may prohibit the operation of bicycles on any sidewalk or crosswalk under their
jurisdiction.
Subd. 4 (f) A person lawfully operating a bicycle on a sidewalk, or across a roadway or
shoulder on a crosswalk, shall have all the rights and duties applicable to a pedestrian under
the same circumstances.
Subd. 9. Bicycle parking. (a) A person may park a bicycle on a sidewalk unless prohibited or
restricted by local authorities. A bicycle parked on a sidewalk shall not impede the normal
and reasonable movement of pedestrian or other traffic.
Statute 169.21 PEDESTRIAN
Subd. 1 Rights in absence of signal. (a) No pedestrian shall suddenly leave a curb or
other place of safety and walk or run into the path of a vehicle which is so close that it is
impossible for the driver to yield.
Statute 169.011 DEFINITIONS
Subd, 4. Bicycle, "Bicycle" means every device propelled solely by human power upon
which any person may ride, having two tandem wheels except scooters and similar devices
and including any device generally recognized as a bicycle though equipped with two front
or rear wheels.
Subd. 42, Motor vehicle, "Motor vehicle" means every vehicle which is self-propelled and
every vehicle which is propelled by electric power obtained from overhead trolley wires.
Motor vehicle does not include an electric personal assistive mobility device or a vehicle
moved solely by human power
Subd, 8 I Street or highway. "Street or highway" means the entire width between boundary
lines of any way or place when any part thereof is open to the use of the public, as a
matter of right, for the purposes of vehicular traffic.
Subd. 92. Vehicle, "Vehicle" means every device in, upon, or by which any person or
property is or may be transported or drawn upon a highway, excepting devices used
exclusively upon stationary rails or tracks.
Surrounding Communities:
Minneapolis: http://www.ci.minneapolis.mn.us/bicycles/faq/index.htm
Bloomington: http://www.ci,bloomington.mn.us/code/index,php/o/page/p/695
Richfield: Section 1335.05, http://www.cityofrichfield.org/Residents/Codes/docs/ch13,pdf
Hopkins: Section I 330, http://www,hopkinsmn.com/archives/pdf/code/section I 330-
7/14/12 5
bicycles.pdf
Eden Prairie: Section 7,20, subd.
2, http://edenprairie.org/modules/showdocumentaspx?documentid=82
St. Louis Park: No reference to sidewalk riding found in city code, but spoke with SLP
Council member who said sidewalk riding is not encouraged, but it is permitted.
Minnetonka: No reference to sidewalk riding found in city code; presumption is that it is
allowed.
City of Los Angeles Interdepartmental Memorandum, October 26, 2011
http://c1krep.lacity.orgionlinedocs/2009/09-0680 RPT DOT 10-26-11.pdf
ROUTING
Drafted by Jennifer Janovy
Distributed to BETF for July 12, 2012 meetings. Recommendation approved by BETF at July 12,
2012 meeting.
7/14/12 6
MINUTES OF
CITY OF EDINA, MINNESOTA
TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION
COMMUNITY ROOM
AUGUST 16, 2012
6:00 P.M.
ROLLCALL Answering roll call was Members Bass, Franzen, lyer, Janovy, LaForce, Nelson, Thompson, and Whited.
APPROVAL OF MEETING AGENDA
The agenda was amended by member Janovy to move the BETF to after Community Comment to accommodate Sgt.
Olson who was in attendance for the Sidewalk Ordinance Discussion. Motion was made by member LaForce and
seconded by member lyer approving the amended agenda. All voted aye. Motion carried.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
REGULAR MEETING OF JULY 19, 2012
Member Whited amended the minutes to add the following to the Streetcar Presentation to the 2"d paragraph, 2"
sentence, 'one stop parking option stands to help emphasize Southdale as a go to place; and this mode of operation is
more friendly travel for seniors.' Motion was made by member LaForce and seconded by member Janovy to approve
the amended July 19 minutes. All voted aye. Motion carried.
COMMUNITY COMMENT
Gretchen Cooper and Bill, 58th & Chowen, said their concern has gotten progressive over the last 7 years with the
number of cars that are speeding between 57th & 58th and the increase in cut thru traffic during the school year. She said
one month ago she yelled at a driver going about 40-45 mph and the driver turned around, came back and yelled
explicits at her and said she was speeding because she was coming down the hill. Ms. Cooper said something needs to
be done. She said she is aware that speed bumps are a problem for snow plows and she knows the police are monitoring
the area but the problem increases on the weekends and holidays usually. She said the drivers are both teens and
adults.
Director Houle was asked if speed data was available and he said he would need to check. He said if the occurrences are
at the same time every day the police can be notified for smart enforcement. A school bus was noted as a culprit that
speeds through the same time every day. Mr. Houle said larger vehicles can often appear to be going faster than they
really are. Member Whited said the issue is that the area is convenient for cut thru traffic and Mr. Houle said it is
scheduled for reconstruction in a couple years and they can look at plans to address the issues. Member Janovy said this
area has come up a few times and wondered if a slightly different approach should be taken. She said reviewing speed,
volume, history of traffic safety requests and crashes is probably a good starting point but asking residents to wait a
couple years might not be. Suggested solutions were putting out the speed monitor to educate drivers of how fast they
are driving and adding it to the Traffic Safety Committee (TSC) report in order to track it. Mr. Houle said staff will provide
all the data at the next meeting and also add this to the TSC. Member lyer asked if staff tracks calls or issue areas and
Mr. Houle said yes, they are tracked on a map.
REPORT/RECOMMENDATIONS
Sidewalk Ordinance Discussion
Member Janovy said at the TLC Bike Blvd public hearing, someone asked about bikes, strollers and wheelchairs on
sidewalks and it was the first time she realized that bikes were not allowed. She brought the issue to the BETF and her
report is from their discussion that recommends changing the ordinance to liberalize biking on sidewalk, allow biking on
sidewalks in business districts and also allow parking on sidewalks. In conversation with the City of Minneapolis' bike
1
coordinator, he told her that they allow biking on sidewalks but not in business districts but he knows it happens and
they are studying the issue. Peter Kelley, chair of the BETF and member Janovy met recently with Sgt. Olson to discuss
the issue.
BETF liaison, Sgt. Tim Olson, was in attendance to explain the Police Department's opinion on biking on sidewalks which
he said is based on safety. Sgt. Olson said allowing bikes on sidewalk would increase the safety risks at the expense of a
small percentage of bikers. He said the City was aware of what they were doing when the ordinance was put together.
He said further that the City is making an effort to provide bike lanes on the roads and that state statute has specific
rules for biking on roadways. Sgt. Olson said he met with members Janovy and Kelley and they agreed there is a public
safety issue by riding on the sidewalk. He said the department is reluctant to support open use of the sidewalk but
recognizes exceptions and inconsistencies, e.g., a child learning to ride on the sidewalk and a parent riding with the child
are not safety concerns because they would be riding slow; the upcoming France Avenue sidewalk project is not a
concern because of the width of the sidewalk — it will not present a risk; and having parking stations on sidewalks. He
said the ordinance could be modified to address these exceptions and inconsistences. Additionally, the ordinance
references a bike registration law that was repealed by the state in 2005, so it is in effect adhering to an outdated law.
Discussion
Member Whited asked about bike collisions with seniors and Sgt. Olson said to date, there have not been any collisions
on sidewalks. He said they do not actively enforce the sidewalk ordinance and in fact, most ordinances are enforced
based on complaints but at least the ordinance is in place when enforcement is necessary.
Member lyer asked if the ordinance should be used for high traffic areas like 66th & Valley View versus a residential
street. Sgt. Olson said the biking population is so small, it does not warrant changing the ordinance. He said the focus
should instead be on what is convenient for pedestrians, not for bikers.
Member Bass said there are adults who do not like being in the streets and she sees both children and adults on
sidewalks every day. She said some riders are comfortable in the streets while others are not. She said also that people
do moderate their behavior accordingly and there have not been any crashes; however, they should allow for people
who are making a safe choice based on comfort level and ability to do so legally. He said the ordinance is effective
because there have not been any accidents and allowing for change has the potential for problems. He said the current
system works well and there is no need to increase the risks to pedestrians based on a small population of bikers who
already have a place to ride.
Member LaForce said the ordinance is a good policy but he also thinks it is a problem when they have ordinances that
do not reflect the practices of what is going on. He said most people are probably not aware that it is illegal to ride on
sidewalks and he wondered what behavior change they would see if they were to tell people. Sgt. Olson said he believes
most people would prefer to not have more bikers on the sidewalk. Member lyer said it does increase the risks if they
add bikers to sidewalks. Sgt. Olson asked what is the need to put bikes on sidewalk when there is an adjacent roadway.
He said the City is making strides to accommodate bikers with bike lanes like they have on 70th . He said integration of
the different modes of transportation will create problems.
LMotion was made by member Janovy and seconded by member lyer to table the current discussion and allow them to
think over what was learned for discussion at a later date. All voted aye. Motion carried.
Traffic Safety Committee (TSC) Report of August 1, 2012
Section A.1. Member Janovy did a revision of the speed table policy for discussion. She did not include a speed threshold
because 27 mph, in context, could be considered unsafe so why wait for 30-35 mph to do something. Member
Thompson ask to remove item #6 and allow for engineering judgment and member Janovy said she would prefer not to.
Members lyer and Nelson agreed that item #6 should be removed. Member Franzen said the revision is concise and well
written and agreed with deleting #6. Member Janovy agreed. Motion was made by member lyer and seconded by
2
MINUTES OF
CITY OF EDINA, MINNESOTA
TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION
COMMUNITY ROOM
SEPTEMBER 20, 2012
6:00 P.M.
ROLLCALL Answering roll call was Members Bass, Braden, Franzen, lyer, Janovy, LaForce, Nelson, Schweiger, Sierks and
Thompson.
New student member Caroline Sierks was welcomed to the ETC.
APPROVAL OF MEETING AGENDA
The agenda was amended by member Bass to reschedule the do.town update for next month's meeting. Motion was
made by member Janovy and seconded by member Iver approving the amended agenda. All voted aye. Motion
carried.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
REGULAR MEETING OF AUGUST 16, 2012
The minutes was amended as follows: page 2, 46 paragraph, delete "Sgt. Olson said she supports the Police
Department's position that it is a good ordinance regardless of whether it/s legal to do so;" page 4, 3rd paragraph, delete
"City Council" and replace with "State Legislature;" 4th paragraph, add "North" before "St. Paul." Motion was made by
member Franzen and seconded by member LaForce to approve the amended August 16 minutes. All voted aye.
Motion carried.
COMMUNITY COMMENT - None.
REPORT/RECOMMENDATIONS
do.town Update
Rescheduled for next meeting.
k Sidewalk Ordinance Discussion
Chair Nelson said the discussion was a continuation from last meeting. MemberJanovy made the following motion and
it was seconded by member Laforce:
1. Forward the BETF memo and recommendation as background information.
2. Recommend that the City Council update Ordinance 1400.07, Subd. 3 by inserting the word
"motor" before "vehicle" so that it reads: "No motor vehicle shall be parked or driven on or along
a sidewalk."
3. Recommend that the City Council update Ordinance 1230.03G by inserting the word "motor"
before vehicle so that it reads: "...no person shall in any park or publicly owned property: Drive or
park a motor vehicle on any area not designated for parking or travel."
4. Recommend that the City Council eliminate Ordinance 1425 — Bicycle Registration,
Member Janovy said for City Council's discussion, they would have the BETF memo and the ETC minutes for background
and adding "motor" before "vehicle" is the simplest change because activities like skateboarding or inline skating would
probably qualify as vehicles. She said it is more than bikes that are impacted by the code and this would change it to the
1
intended purpose of restricting motor vehicles. She was asked about motorized scooters and wheelchairs and she said
they are considered pedestrians if being used as a substitute for walking.
Member lyer asked if they are going against the police's recommendation and member Janovy said yes. He said he
agreed with eliminating the bike registration but wondered why they were going against the police. He said he would
give discretion of enforcement in the same way that discretion is given to the engineering staff. Member Janovy said the
police are not enforcing the ordinance and residents are confused about the ordinance based on emails that the City
Council has received. She said also that the change would bring Edina in line with surrounding communities. Chair
Nelson also agreed with eliminating the bike registration and leaving everything else as is since there are no real issues.
Member Janovy said parking bikes on sidewalk is currently not allowed and chair Nelson said this could be treated as an
exception. Member Bass said they should support actual behavior and not dissidence. Members Thompson and Franzen
also agreed with the motion. After discussion, the following vote was taken:
Ayes: Bass, Braden, Franzen, Janovy, LaForce, Schweiger, Sierks, Thompson
Nays: lyer, Nelson
Motion carried.
000-
Traffic Safety Committee (TSC) Report of September 5, 2012
Chair Nelson thanked staff for including photos in the report because they are very helpful in understanding the story.
Section 8.1. Member Janovy asked if the request was for no parking between Bruce & Casco Avenues. Director Houle
said the request was specific to the resident's address.
Member Janovy said the 85th percentile speed data is useful but asked if they could also get the number of vehicles
travelling over 25 mph and Director Houle said yes. Member LaForce asked how to interpret the 85th percentile data.
Director Houle explained that the industry standard is to look at the speed that 85% of drivers are travelling and
member Thompson added that they look at all the recorded speeds and the 85 th percentile speed is the speed at which
85% of drivers are traveling at or under. He said the speed limit is set based on driver behavior and people drive based
on their comfort level. Director Houle will explain how the 85th percentile speed process works at the next meeting.
Section 8.2. Member Thompson suggested a way finding sign to the back parking lot.
Section D - Director Houle explained that section D is there to show other issues that staff assists residents with.
Section D. 1. Member LaForce asked if the City proactively monitors overgrown vegetation and Director Houle said staff
is encouraged to report clear view issues. He said the police enforce clear view and they are generally successful in
getting residents to comply when complaints are received. Member Janovy noted that there is new landscaping at
Concord & Oak with arborvitaes that are small now but will present a clear view issue when fully grown because of how
close they are planted to the street. Director Houle said he will forward this to the police. Member Franzen said he
received a letter from the City recently about trimming his trees.
Section D. 12. It was noted that it would be informative to know what advisory was given to the resident.
Section D. 13. It was noted that it was good to see the new crosswalk being noticed. Director Houle said the media has
been calling him about the new style because of crosswalk incidences. Member Bass said she has noticed more kids
using the sidewalk and crosswalk.
Motion made by member Janovy and seconded by member Thompson to approve the September 5 TSC report. All
voted aye. Motion carried.
2
•
- 4 Edina Actiire Routes t. S ho
Coin • rehe'irsive,Plan
markings must have two white parallel lines to be considered a marked crosswalk. Implementation
lead: City of Edina.
Examples of marked crosswalk types
• Incorporate specific language regarding walking and biking to school into the school district
wellness policy. The language of the current policy could be strengthened to encourage walking and
biking to school as having health benefits, as well as environmental benefits around the school.
Having this type of policy can also mitigate potential liability concerns. Several example policies are
provided below. The Minnesota Public Health Law Center also has resources and training available
to help address this issue, including a summary of liability for schools. This document has been
included in the Resources section of the Appendix. Implementation lead: Edina Public Schools.
o National Alliance for Nutrition and Activity: The school district will assess and, if necessary
and to the extent possible, make needed improvements to make it safer and easier for
students to walk and bike to school. When appropriate, the district will work together with
local public works, public safety, and/or police departments in those efforts. The school
district will explore the availability of federal "safe routes to school" funds, administered by
the state department of transportation, to finance such improvements.
o Clinton Central School District, New York: Clinton Central School District will work with
school board members, parents, and local public works and police personnel to implement a
"SAFE ROUTES TO SCHOOL" program in support of walking/biking to school.
o Marin County Office of Education, California: While Marin County has a number of
transportation concerns, there has been increasing funding in the County to improve routes
for safe walking and biking. Districts should encourage parents and students to walk and
bike to school where safe routes are available and assist parents in organizing adult
supervised groups. Parent and student groups may also consider assessing walking and
filmn azonalo biking access to their school and apply for funding to improve this access
• Modify city ordinance language to allow bicycling on sidewalks. Current city ordinance prohibits
bicycle riding on sidewalks anywhere in the city. However, guidance by the National Highway Traffic
Safety Administration (NHTSA) suggests that children aged 10 and under do not have the judgment
and skills to ride on the roadway. Even many high school aged and adult bicyclists do not feel
!li I S I E
Statewide
Health
Improvement
' Program
HP: ALT I REF 0R M
pr-11.1/1 Kimley-Horn
27 r and Associates, Inc.
Edina Actrve Routes to School • Corn rehelisrve,Plan
New bicycle parking at Creek Valley Elementary
comfortable riding in an on-street facility, particularly on higher volume roadways or where there is
not a dedicated bicycle facility. Most municipalities in Minnesota and nationwide do not prohibit
riding bicycles on sidewalks, except in specific areas with high pedestrian volumes such as central
business districts. To improve the ability for bicyclists of all abilities to comfortably travel through
the city, the existing ordinance should be modified to allow for bicycling on sidewalks subject to
several conditions, including yielding to pedestrians, riding at lower speeds, and not riding on
sidewalks where posted. Implementation lead: City of Edina.
Incorporate walking and bicycling safety education into the physical education curriculum.
Walking and bicycling safely are life-long skills for a healthy lifestyle. Students should receive
education and training about how to safely walk and bicycle to school, with or without sidewalks, as
well as how to safely cross at intersections. Examples of physical education curricula are found in
the Resources section of this plan. Implementation lead: Edina Public Schools.
Mid-Term Improvements
• Create a program to improve bicycle
parking at all schools. Many of the
existing bicycle racks on the school sites
are poorly located and are older style
racks that provide less secure parking.
These should be systematically replaced
over the next five years. Bicycle corrals
should be considered for the middle
school and high school sites, which have
the greatest potential for high bicycle
mode share. In addition, bicycle parking
capacity should be increased to meet the
criteria of one bicycle parking space per
10 students. Implementation lead: Edina
Public Schools.
• Designate a district ARTS coordinator. Individual school sites need support to plan and implement
walking and biking education and activities. Coordination of resources and events across the district
will maximize the effectiveness of these efforts, as well as providing a single point of contact for
school administration and other agencies such as the City of Edina and Bloomington Public Health.
The ARTS coordinator would be able to assist schools in implementing encouragement activities
such as walking school buses, remote pick-up/drop-off, and walking/biking events. Implementation
lead: Edina Public Schools.
Or' Health
, Improvement
Statewide
Program
HEALTH REFORM
Kimley-Horn
28 ilkn V 1 and Associates, Inc.
SPECIAL MEETING
MINUTES OF
CITY OF EDINA, MINNESOTA
TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION
COMMUNITY ROOM
FEBRUARY 27, 2014
6:30 P.M.
ROLL CALL Answering roll call was member Bass, Boettge, Nelson, Van Dyke and Whited.
A quorum was not reached for this meeting as such members had discussions but did not take action.
APPROVAL OF MEETING AGENDA
Not approved.
APPROVAL OF MEETING MINUTES - Jan. 16, 2014
Not approved.
COMMUNITY COMMENT — See comment under Chair and Commission Member Comments.
REPORTS/RECOMMENDATIONS
Active Transportation Bike/Pedestrian Education and Bicycle Parking Action Plan
Transportation planner Nolan said on Oct. 23, Bicycle Alliance of MN (BikeMN), the MN Department of Health and
MNDOT hosted a workshop that included discussion about the 5Es (evaluation, engineering, education, enforcement
and encouragement), bike culture in Edina and how to improve biking, plus a bike tour. They said it was the best
workshop they've hosted. The draft action plan is the outcome of the workshop and Nick Mason of BikeMN is
looking for feedback.
Member Bass liked that the plan's transportation education piece aligned with Active Routes to School (ARTS)
transportation education and strongly recommended that Parks & Recreation and/or Engineering take a field trip to
other open streets events to understand strategically why they would do this type of event and to understand the
budget, etc. Transportation planner Nolan said BikeMN had this discussion with Parks & Recreation. For bike parking
she suggested cross-checking with ARTS because they heard from high school students that a rack is not sufficient
bike parking.
Chair Nelson asked what the purpose of the action plan was and transportation planner Nolan said to serve as a
guideline for stakeholders. He said staff has already started working on some things like bikelack inventory at public
places but still need to inventory private businesses. Member Bass asked if there were opportunities to influence
adding covered bike parking with redevelopments. Chair Nelson said when CVS was redeveloped the Planning
Commission required a bike rack and it was added. He asked how they would determine where covered bike parking
is needed. Member Bass asked how do you change how you move around to become a bike culture, to show that
bikes are welcome. She said the employees at 50th & France, for example, are not allowed to park in the ramps so
they park in nearby neighborhoods which create conflicts and asked how do you make it possible for them to bike to
work? Transportation planner Nolan said some parking are available for employees in the ramps and they've talked
about adding parking corrals and changing codes to make it possible. Member Whited asked about about incentives
or reimbursement plans for other modes of transportation for places like 50th & France.
1
Member Boettge asked if outreach would be done by parents or teachers and said it probably would be more
effective if done by the school district. Member Bass said there is a bike/walk curriculum that is available for anyone
to use but it is mostly physical education teachers that are involved and receives ongoing training. She said one
limitation that MNDOT is working to fix is not all children have bikes or knows how to ride a bike so they may need to
include biking lessons and they are trying to get a fleet of bikes. She said some communities have used their SHIP
funds to buy bikes. Member Boettge said she likes that drivers are also included for education outreach.
Members Janovy and LaForce commented via email. The final plan will be distributed when it is completed.
City Council Joint Work Session Planning
Transportation planner Nolan said the ETC and Bike Edina will each have a 45 minute session with the City Council to
make it a transportation-related work session on Mar. 18. He asked what the ETC would like discuss and suggestions
were Living Streets Policy implementation, ARTS Plan, Bike and Sidewalk Map from the perspective of their
importance to the City Council considering that the Council tends not to approve sidewalks in street reconstruction
projects. An email will be sent out next week to gather feedback from the entire group.
Ordinance Discussion: Bicycling on Sidewalks
Member Bass asked staff to distribute the page from the ARTS plan where the consultant recommends making
changes to the bike ordinance because it would be helpful during discussion. She said she admires and respects the
Police and their ability to enforce bad behavior; however, there are many communities that allow biking on sidewalk
and it works. She said Edina is law abiding and high school students want to bike to school but their parents are
aware of the biking ordinance so they are not allowed to bike. She asked how they can work with the Police to
develop a shared understanding. Transportation planner Nolan will talk with city manager Neal to see how this can
be done.
Chair Nelson noted that one of the ETC's 2014 initiatives is to meet with the Police annually to discuss shared
interests. He said the current code does not allow for motorized vehicles but maintenance vehicles are motorized.
In business districts riders would probably walk their bikes similar to the recommendation in the ARTS plan and make
it clear they are to yield to pedestrians.
Member Bass said the idea that biking on sidewalk was unsafe came from a study that was done around bike
commuters that determine it was unsafe to ride on sidewalks. She said it is probably not accurate to extrapolate
from this.
Members Janovy and LaForce submitted comments via email. The discussion will continue at the Mar. 20 meeting.
Traffic Safety Committee Report of February 5, 2014
Section Al. Chair Nelson said it seemed odd that they are putting a directional sign in a church's right-of-way for
another church.
Section B1. Transportation planner Nolan said even though this was denied, staff is recommending that they study
the area in the spring.
Section B2. Member Whited said they are generally provided with the crash data and transportation planner Nolan
said the crashes were below the requirement for a stop sign.
Section B3. Member Whited asked why the request was denied and transportation planner Nolan said they would be
opening the door for placing more directional signs.
2
Member Bass said the TSC deals primarily with requests for stop signs, no parking signs, etc. and traffic calming and
when a request for a stop sign to deal with speeding is denied there are no other options that residents can pursue.
She said they need to provide a more satisfying answer and noted Sunnyside Road and Grimes Avenue plus other
areas that keep coming up without resolution. She suggested engaging with residents in the neighborhood for a
'walk and talk' dialogue. Transportation planner Nolan said the Living Streets Policy includes traffic calming
measures. Member Whited said they discussed giving speed radar guns to residents because sometimes vehicles
appear to be going faster than they actually are.
Transportation Options Workshop — No discussion; tabled until Mar. 20.
Updates
Student Members - None
Bike Edina
A Bike Friendly application was submitted and Nick with BikeMN said it was one of the strongest applications he's
seen in years. In 2010 Edina received a Bike Friendly honorable mention which simply means an application was
submitted. In May they'll find out if this application receives a higher recognition. Ten other cities in Minnesota have
received recognitions. Member Bass said there is also a walk friendly designation and asked transportation planner
Nolan to gather information on this for a future meeting.
Living Streets Working Group
Transportation planner Nolan said they continue revise the guidelines and he is working with environmental
engineer Bintner on the rain garden and storm water management section of the plan. He said Arden Park D is
scheduled for reconstruction in 2015 and staff is considering adding rain gardens (using City of Maplewood as the
model). He said they submitted a partnership grant to the watershed district and will be making a presentation to
them. A work session is planned with the City Council to inform them sooner rather than later.
Member Whited asked if there was training on rain garden maintenance because Dakota County is offering free
training.
Communications Committee -None
CORRESPONDENCE AND PETITIONS - None
CHAIR AND COMMISSION MEMBER COMMENTS
Member Whited said she met with Tom Miller from Safety in the Park and she said they are proposing to meet with
Mayor Hovland regarding the Southern Arm that is proposed as part of the Southwest LRT because they believe it is
going in and they would like the Mayor to make a formal statement. She said this would need to happen quickly
because a final decision is expected in about three weeks. Member Whited asked what the reaction was to Mr.
Christiansen's presentation last month regarding the Southern Arm and chair Nelson said they did not get the sense
that it was going to happen because of improvement cost to the bridge in Savage; however, within the last week
there has been new information. Member Bass said they could send an advisory communication to the City Council
asking them to make a statement.
During Member Whited's comment, Edina residents Mr. Andy Brown, 5512 Park Place; and Mr. David Davison, 6716
Galway Drive, joined the meeting and stated that they were in attendance at the Grandview CAT meeting downstairs
where they talked about the potential for light rail and the importance of having a Grandview transit station included
with the redevelopment of the Grandview area and this ties with the Southern Arm discussion. He said they
attended the Grandview CAT meeting to ask the advisory group to ask the City Council to consider a resolution to lift
the gag order on the Dan Patch line so that the Met Council can study light rail along these tracks. He said Met
Council's Steve Elkins was also in attendance because the CAT will be going out for a Request for Information for
3
redevelopment and they are including space for a Grandview transit station but the gag order must be lifted. Mr.
Davison said in the interest of the community, the City Council should put in a resolution asking the legislators to
reverse the gag order like it did last year. This would allow the Met Council to study light rail on the Dan Patch line.
Mr. Brown said the gag order was put in place by Edina's Rep. Ron Erhardt more than ten years ago and his argument
then was that they would need to take out rows of houses but this would have been to install a Northstar-type train.
Mr. Brown said with improved technology, it is possible to have light rail without changing the configuration of the
line because the new technology can handle the curves unlike freight trains. They said a similar request was made
last year and Rep. Erhardt removed it and they have no reason to believe that he would not do the same again this
year.
Member Bass said this is a service to the community and it should be worrisome that Edina is being left out of this
new service but she said they do not have a quorum to support this tonight so it will be forwarded to the Mar. 20
meeting.
Chair Nelson reported that Federal Aviation Administration will not implement the Area Navigation departure routes
at this time which would have impacted Edina.
STAFF COMMENTS
• France Avenue — chair Nelson said the ETC has not seen the final plans for this project and member Bass
asked about the communication plan that they had recommended. Transportation planner Nolan said an
article will be in the spring About Town and he will have a discussion with city engineer Millner about the
plans and communication. The next Urban Design meeting is scheduled for Mar. 10, 6 p.m. at the Public
Works & Park Maintenance Facility, 7450 Metro Blvd.
• The ARTS was presented to City Council on Feb. 3 and received positive feedback; the working group is
meeting Mar. 5; the policy is online on the transportation webpage.
• W. 54th Street — the variance was approved by City Council and there is no reason to believe that it will not
be approved by MNDOT. The Federal Highway Administration said they will continue to allow advisory bike
lanes but not the green lanes like we have on Valley View Road. They will allow the green lanes to stay in
place until the end of its useful life.
ADJOURNMENT
Meeting adjourned.
4
ATTENDANCE
TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION ATTENDANCE - 2014
NAME TERM J F* M A NI J J A S 0 N D
SM
2/27
SM
3/10
WS # of
3/18 Mtgs
Attendance
%
Meetings/Work
Sessions 1 1 0 0
Bass, Katherine 2/1/2014 1 1 1 2 100%
Boettge, Emily 2/1/2014 1 1 1 2 100%
lyer, Surya 2/1/2015 1 1 2 100%
Janovy, Jennifer 2/1/2014 1 1 2 100%
LaForce, Tom 2/1/2015 1 1 2 100%
Nelson, Paul 2/1/2016 1 1 1 2 100%
Whited, Courtney 2/1/2015 1 1 1 50%
Sierks, Caroline student 1 1 50%
Spanhake, Dawn
Van Dyke, Jackson student 1 1 1 50%
*Cancelled due
to weather
Respectfully submitted,
Sharon Allison, Secretary
5
MINUTES OF
CITY OF EDINA, MINNESOTA
TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION
COUNCIL CHAMBERS
JANUARY 16, 2014
6:00 P.M.
ROLL CALL Answering roll call was member Bass, Boettge, lyer, Janovy, LaForce, and Nelson.
APPROVAL OF MEETING AGENDA
Motion was made by member LaForce and seconded by member Janovy to approve the meeting agenda. All voted
aye. Motion carried.
APPROVAL OF MEETING MINUTES
REGULAR MEETING OF DECEMBER 19, 2013 — Approved as corrected.
Motion was made by member Janovy and seconded by member Bass to approve the amended minutes of
December 19, 2013. All voted aye. Motion carried.
COMMUNITY COMMENT — None.
REPORTS/RECOMMENDATIONS
MnDOT/Southwest LRT Freight Rail Presentation
Southwest LRT
Mr. Dave Christiansen presented an update on the Southwest LRT and 2014 Regional Rail. Mr. Christiansen said the
Met Council was ready to vote on the co-location or relocation of the LRT when Governor Dayton requested a 90-day
moratorium to re-examine freight rail alternatives/options in response to controversies that were still present.
Several alternatives/options are under review and the consultants' reports are due Jan. 31 and open houses will be
scheduled. He said if it appears they are moving rapidly with this project this is because the design phase actually
began in 1996 and the Met Council, who took over in 2012 from Hennepin County, would like to finalize design
because other projects around the country are in similar state of readiness and they are competing for the same
funds. The LRT is number one on the list for funding and the Met Council do not want lose their standing. He said
most of the issues have been resolved except for the current ones with freight being the biggest.
Mr. Christiansen said it is difficult to relocate freight trains because most lines have been abandoned while freight
traffic has increased. He said TC&W is experiencing moderate growth while Canadian Pacific (CP) will see minor
changes such as week day switches, occasional TC&W transfers and approximately 4-6 additional trains at nights on
the Dan Patch line passing thru Edina. He said TC&W is evaluating the Savage Swing Bridge to put it back in service.
Mr. Christiansen said the Kenilworth is a major service area for freight and the Met Council is moving forward with
plans but the Minneapolis City Council said they were promised that freight rail would be taken out of the Kenilworth
area; additionally, the bike path currently runs next to the railroad. One suggestion is a shallow tunnel for the LRT
with the bike path on top and freight remains in same location. He said the conundrum that they are faced with is to
spend more money and stay in Kenilworth or move into St. Louis Park.
Passenger Rail
Mr. Christiansen said they are working on plans for high speed rail but funding is not yet available. They are
Minneapolis to Duluth and the plans should be completed by the end of this year; Rochester to the Twin Cities and
1
the plans should be completed within 18 months; and Chicago to the Twin Cities and plans should be completed by
end of this year (this one requires the cooperation of Wisconsin and they pulled out two years ago). Another route is
Mankato to Minneapolis but this one does not have local support (would run on the Dan Patch line).
Quiet Zones
Mr. Christiansen said there is a method and engineering formula that communities can use to create quiet zones and
the railroad has to shut-off their horn; however, the quiet zone application does not include pedestrian safety. To
include pedestrian safety at crossings, the cost is between $75,000 and $500,000 per crossing. Edina has about six
crossings.
The following questions were asked of Mr. Christiansen:
• Are there guidelines for adding bike trail next to the CP rail? There are none at this time and the railroad
gets nervous when you want to add anything next to them. He said to use common sense and they suggest a
fence between the trail and railroad.
• What do you get for $75,000 vs $500,000 when upgrading a crossing? There are many factors to consider —
current ADT, number of lanes, signals, number of trains, etc. Also, an upgraded crossing may need to be re-
engineered later on if circumstances change (traffic increases, etc.).
• Does MNDOT have funding available to upgrade crossings? There is a small budget for crossings but Edina
would not qualify because quiet zones are considered quality of life improvement and not safety related.
• For the LRT, will Edina be required to provide municipal consent? No, because Edina will be affected on a
secondary level.
• Is the Southern Arm being considered? Not at this time but this could change.
Active Routes to School Presentation
Member Bass explained Edina's Active Routes to School plan starting with the name. She said the nationwide
program called Safe Routes to School began as an initiative to increase walking and biking to school but the plan
covers more than just safety so they decided that Active Routes to School was a more appropriate name.
She said the benefits of walking and biking includes healthier children, better academic performance and less traffic
congestion. The plan goals include supporting walking and biking where it is safe to do so and making changes in
unsafe areas. She emphasized that it does not include making everyone walk, bike, or eliminate school busses and
cars but to make it possible and safe for those who want to walk or bike; especially the 16% of students within the
district's .7 mile walking zone.
Continuing, member Bass said the plan was developed to serve as a vision for the community; identify and prioritize
short and long-term improvements such as engineering, education, encouragement, enforcement and evaluation;
and funding opportunities (MNDOT requires a plan when seeking funding).
She said the plan was developed by consultant Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc. by gathering data; site visits;
stakeholders input from a working group that included City and District staff, members Bass and Janovy from the
ETC, a City of Bloomington Public Health staff; principal interviews; Edina High Student Council; and a parent survey.
There were 369 responses to the parent survey and the reasons most cited for not regularly walking or biking to
school were traffic (amount and speed); infrastructure (intersection and crossing safety, presence of
sidewalk/pathways), and distance (for high school); and 59% said a child had asked for permission to walk/bike in the
last year.
Member Bass said the plan's recommendations were categorized by short, mid or long-term plans and
implementation would be done by the City or District or jointly.
2
Finally, she said the plan would be presented to other committees for review and input and adoption by City Council
and the School Board; establish a working group to help with implementation; and monitor funding sources.
Discussion
Member Iyer recommended a sidewalk on W. 66th St. west of TH-100 (on the steep hill); establish drop-off locations
that students can walk from; create an efficient pedestrian connection from the Cornelia Neighborhood to South
View and Concord which would include a pedestrian bridge over TH-62 that accommodates bikes (existing bridge is
not bike friendly); consider higher fines when drivers park on street during the winter and snowplows are not able
plow properly; and reduce the number of garbage trucks on the streets when students are walking.
Member Boettge said she did not recall receiving a parent survey and asked how the survey was distributed.
Member Bass could not recall all the avenues that were used but some included the District's In The Know
newsletter, Edina Patch and other means that individual principals used. Member Boettge asked if more surveys are
planned and member Bass said not a parent survey but student surveys are included in the plan.
Member Janovy asked if the ETC would like to make a recommendation to forward the report to the City Council for
adoption. Member lyer said he would like his suggestions addressed before forwarding the report to the City Council
and he asked if there was an opportunity for more people to be involved. Member Bass said she would forward his
suggestions to the consultant for inclusion and that he could participate in the working group. The consensus was to
include member lyer's suggestions and bring the plan back next month for a final review.
Traffic Safety Committee Report of January 2, 2014
Section Al. Another issue in this area said chair Nelson are the two left turn lanes under the TH-100 bridge — one
turning north to TH-100 (north left turn lane) and the other presumably to the frontage road (south left turn lane).
He asked if there could be better signage because if you're in the south left turn lane trying to go onto TH-100 it is
difficult and traffic often backs up to Rabun Drive because of the turn lanes. Transportation planner Nolan will look
into this (member Janovy noted that this area has been looked at in the past).
Section Bl. Member Janovy asked for clarification on what the request was and transportation planner Nolan said it
was for additional (unspecified) signage; however, the area is already signed and staff did not think advanced
warning sign would be effective. Member Janovy said limiting parking near the crosswalks was raised in the past and
she suggested checking to see how far back from a crosswalk parking is allowed and extending that even further
back to allow for pedestrian visibility.
Section C2. Transportation planner Nolan said Hennepin County has offered to install a rapid flashing beacon and an
enhanced crosswalk in 2014 and he is checking to see if they would consider straightening out the crosswalk and
adding a pedestrian refuge.
In the appendix, member Janovy suggested identifying marked pedestrian crosswalk as City of Edina policy to make it
clear what is controlled by the City.
Motion was made by member Janovy and seconded by member Bass to forward the January 2 Traffic Safety
Report to City Council. All voted aye. Motion carried.
Updates
Student Members - None
Bike Edina Task Force
Member Janovy said the Bike Edina Task Force is now Bike Edina. She said they are accepting new members and the
application is online at BikeEdina.org. Member Bass asked why Bike Edina did not conduct the Bike Rodeo this year
3
and if they may not be interested in the future. Member Janovy said it was only for this year because of reorganizing
and liability concerns. Member Bass suggested partnering with other organizations for future rodeos.
Living Streets Working Group
Chair Nelson said they met on Jan. 2 and discussed network connections and design guidelines.
Communications Committee
Member Janovy asked if the communications plan for the France Avenue Intersection Enhancement project has been
revisited now that the project has been approved. Transportation planner Nolan said he saw the plan for the first
time today and he and interim city engineer Millner will be working on it. Member LaForce suggested sharing the
final project plans with the ETC.
CORRESPONDENCE AND PETITIONS - None
CHAIR AND COMMISSION MEMBER COMMENTS
Member Janovy asked if there are any noise walls planned between crosstown and W. 50th Street. She said the chain
link fences along the ramps at W. 50th Street and TH-100 aren't in good shape and asked what the process was for
replacing them. Transportation planner Nolan will check on these.
Chair Nelson said the Park and Ride on the east side of Southdale is now opened with express services to downtown
Minneapolis and to the University of Minnesota.
Member Bass asked about the timeframe for filling the city engineer's position. Transportation planner Nolan said
they are down to two final candidates and they expect to fill the position by next month.
STAFF COMMENTS
• Transportation Options - transportation planner Nolan said he met with commissioner Whited to discuss the
upcoming Transportation Options workshop and she suggested some things for the ETC to consider before
the workshop next month. In response to her suggestions, chair Nelson suggested a formal or informal
survey to see what transportation options are currently available. Member Bass said they could also look at
data already available like the Quality of Life survey conducted by the City; member Janovy concurred and
said the survey asked how people get around the community and it also captures their age.
• France Avenue Intersection Enhancement Urban Design - a meeting is being planned to share design
concepts; more information to come on the meeting date and time.
• W. 54th Street — engineering services agreement was approved; staff is working on a variance for the advisory
bike lane which will mostly like be approved; a neighborhood meeting is planned for 1/27 for bridge design
feedback.
• Xerxes Avenue — the County will mill and overlay from W. 54th to W. 66th in 2014. Member Janovy suggested
looking at pedestrian crossings and transportation planner Nolan said the County has agreed to install a
crosswalk at W. 64th .
• Three Rivers District asked cities to submit proposals for the Transportation Alternative Program Solicitation
and Edina was one of six from 27 proposals that were accepted. If funding is approved the money would be
used to construct a path at Oaklawn and Parklawn Avenues (an Active Routes to School path).
ADJOURNMENT
Meeting adjourned.
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ATTENDANCE
TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION ATTENDANCE - 2014
NAME TERM J F M A M J J A S 0 N D
Work
Session
# of
mtgs
Attendance
%
Meetings/Work
Sessions 1 1
Bass, Katherine 2/1/2014 1 1 100%
Boettge, Emily 2/1/2014 1 1 100%
Iyer, Surya 2/1/2015 1 1 100%
Janovy, Jennifer 2/1/2014 1 1 100%
LaForce, Tom 2/1/2015 1 1 100%
Nelson, Paul 2/1/2016 1 1 100%
Whited, Courtney 2/1/2015 0 0%
Sierks, Caroline student 0 0%
Van Dyke, Jackson student 0 0%
Respectfully submitted,
Sharon Allison, Secretary
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