Consider Future Earthwork at the Southwest Intersection of Bunker and Ramsey Boulevard's to Support Sidewalk Grant Application(s)

Recently, MnDot issued calls for proposals for the Safe Routes to School (SRTS) program, with the program details at:  http://www.dot.state.mn.us/saferoutes/index.html

Staff has identified several trail or sidewalk segments, or gaps that may meet criterion for funding. Those are identified in the three draft exhibits.  The one that pertains to this case is entitled PACT Exhibit (the other two are included as related informational items).

North of PACT School, along Ramsey Boulevard is a short segment of sidewalk that has been the subject of several requests by residents and the school to be constructed, and is about a $17k to $20 project, and an ideal candidate for the SRTS program, in that very little grading needs to be done for construction.

There is also a portion of 'missing' sidewalk along Bunker Lake Boulevard, west of Ramsey Boulevard that would connect the townhomes to the west.  However, this section would need some storm water improvements and somewhat significant grading in order for any sidewalk improvement to be installed - and be in it's end location and elevation.

Staff feels that certain expenditures by the HRA would be prudent if the city received SRTS funding for the proposed sidewalk along Bunker Lake Boulevard - and therefore the purpose of this case is to receive that concurrence.  Those rationale include:

• The SRTS is not likely to fund this specific section of sidewalk due the significant total costs involved - as the cost per foot will not look favorable if 'X' dollars of grading and storm water expenses are included in the grant application.
• Leveraging the grant to bring these improvements to this corner improves both the functioning of this part of the COR's sidewalk and trail system, AND the market value of this city owned parcel (the corner of #116 & #56).
• Additionally, this is an important visual entrance to the COR -and having a finished 'edge,' (together with removal of the spruce and a space for entrance signage) moves the HRA along with the marketing of this parcel and others.

The application was released in May, with the due date for the SRTS infrastructure grant submittals due June 15th, 2011.  The COR development team is in the process of examining the costs mentioned above, and will bring the estimate for the aforementioned grading etc. to the meeting for discussion.

No funding is requested at this time, however, the submittal of the SRTS grant application (for the PACT sidewalk proposal) will presume an HRA investment in grading.  Upon successful award, the estimate would be revised and the 2012-13 project would come forward for HRA approval.

Based upon discussion, acknowledge application of SRTS grant application(s).