Update on MnDOT Noise Barrier Study Findings related to Oak Terrace Estates

Staff was recently contacted by the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) regarding a potential noise barrier project in the City of Ramsey that MnDOT has identified as one of it's top ranking sites for standalone noise walls in their 2016 MnDOT Metro Highway Noise Abatement Study.  This MnDOT program has setaside funding of approximately $2 million per year to build noise barriers in areas where there are no programmed MnDOT projects that would trigger a noise wall study and construction of noise barriers under the federal process.  This program requires a 10% cost share from the City (90% MnDOT) therefore MnDOT is wondering if the City has any interest in pursuing this project.
 
Based on MnDOT's study, one site in Ramsey looks like it will rank high enough to be programmed within the next 5-years (2021 - 2026).  MnDOT is currently working on modeling barrier cost-effectiveness for this barrier project, and provided Staff with the following (very) preliminary cost estimate for the noise barrier:

•    MnDOT costs = $387,578 (2021 dollars adjusted for inflation)
•    City costs = $43,064 (2021 dollars adjusted for inflation)

A map of the surrounding area and the preliminary alignment of the noise barrier (bright green line) is attached.
 
At this time, MnDOT is primarily wondering whether the City of Ramsey is interested in pursuing this project, especially in light of the Highway 10 improvements identified in the Highway 10 Access Planning Study.  It is important to note that if the TH 10 & Sunfish Lake Blvd interchange project receives funding and moves forward in the future, it would likely require a noise analysis at that time and a noise barrier for Oak Terrace Estates would likely need to be included as part of that project if it is federally funded.  Under this scenario, the City would not be required to contribute a 10% cost share.

Staff recently met to discuss potential benefits and concerns associated with constructing the proposed noise wall.

Benefits -
Reduced highway traffic noise for Oak Terrace Estates residents
Screens Oak Terrace Estates from highway traffic

Concerns -
Potential need to relocate barrier when Highway 10 improvements occur
Increased sight distance issues at accesses to Highway 10
Restricts access for school buses, garbage trucks, etc.
Railroad noise trap
Restricted maneuverability for emergency vehicles
Crime prevention through design

Staff believes it would beneficial to reach out to the owner and residents of Oak Terrace Estates once more information is received from MnDOT.  However, Staff first wanted to present what information we do have to Council and to receive Council's feedback and input on this matter.

Staff estimates this case will take 10 minutes to present and discuss.

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