Update on reconstruction requests for Andrie Street

Andrie Street's pavement is in poor condition and is in need of reconstruction.  In 2008 the city completed a Feasibility Study and prepared plans and specifications for the reconstruction of Andrie Street, which included an alternate bid for constructing sidewalks as part of the project.  However, this project was never constructed due to the controversy that arose over whether sidewalks should be constructed or not with the project.  A copy of the Feasibility Study is attached.

Recently there has been a renewed interest on the part of area residents for reconstructing Andrie Street.  Based on preliminary feedback from area residents they favor reconstruction of the street but likely not a new sidewalk.

Since the city did complete plans and specifications for this project in 2008 this project could likely be moved forward very quickly if the City Council so desired. 

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Andrie Street is one of the worst streets in Ramsey in terms of pavement condition and based on the most recent pavement ratings this street should be next in line to be reconstructed after Garnet/168th.  Since there is a renewed interest on the part of area residents for reconstructing Andrie Street, staff wanted the Public Works Committee to weigh in on the project, especially considering the history of this project.

In 2008, the engineer's estimate to reconstruct the streets (curb and gutter, pavement, storm sewer and turf establishment) was $1.23M, while the low bid came in at $0.90M.  To add sidewalks the engineer's estimate was $0.36M, while the low bid came in at $0.22M.  However, since that time bituminous prices have risen roughly 30% so the overall project costs would likely be 20-25% higher than in 2008.


Alternative #1 - Provide a recommendation to Council to direct staff to revise the 2008 engineer's estimate to see what estimated costs would be to reconstruct the street and construct sidewalks in 2013.  Since the city did complete plans and specifications for this project in 2008 this project could likely be moved forward very quickly if the Public Works Committee recommends that the City Council consider it.

Alternative #2 - Provide a recommendation to Council to direct staff to revise the 2008 engineer's estimate to see what estimated costs would be to reconstruct the street in 2013, without constructing sidewalk costs.  This option should be chosen if the Public Works Committee feels the project should not include sidewalk construction.  Again, since the city did complete plans and specifications for this project in 2008 this project could likely be moved forward very quickly if the Public Works Committee recommends that the City Council consider it.

Alternative #3 - Do nothing.

At this time there are not sufficient funds in the MSA account to fund the improvements.  As such, funding would need to be provided through the use of special assessments, bonds, adoption of a franchise fee, or a combination thereof.  In other words, the City should consider the comprehensive street reconstruction financing prior to ordering this project.

Staff recommends providing a recommendation to Council to direct staff to update the estimated costs for reconstructing Andrie Street and constructing new sidewalk.  As long as any interest is shown by area residents to construct sidewalks this cost should also be updated in order to provide current information.  Staff should also be directed to prepare to determine final costs and financing options for the street reconstruction effort.

1)  Provide a recommendation to City Council to allow a current evaluation of Andrie Street costs if reconstructed in 2013.

2)  Direct staff to prepare to prepare a report outlining final costs and financing options for the street reconstruction effort and report within 60 days.