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Authorizing Public Works to submit a variance application to the Minnesota Department of Transportation for the Lafayette Trail Extension project.
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WHEREAS, the City of Saint Paul is preparing plans for MSAS 296 (E Lafayette Frontage Rd) to construct a multiuse trail from the Plato Blvd intersection to approximately 550 feet northwest along the east side of the roadway using City funds and possibly Municipal State Aid funds; and
WHEREAS, the City of Saint Paul’s bike plan recommends creating a separated bikeway facility along the above defined corridor that connects the Lafayette Bridge Trail and the Robert Piram Regional Trail; and
WHEREAS, Minnesota Rules for State Aid Operation 8820.9936(e) Minimum Design Standards requires two through-traffic lanes on a one-way roadway facility; and
WHEREAS, a single through-traffic lane on the East Lafayette Frontage Road is the current condition installed by the Minnesota Department of Transportation; and
WHEREAS, the current conditions do not provide safe nor adequate facilities for pedestrian or bicycle traffic between the Lafayette Bridge Trail and the Robert Piram Regional Trail; and
WHEREAS, the City wishes to maximize pedestrian and bicycle safety by providing a dedicated and separated facility for bicyclists and pedestrians to provide reaction and buffer space for pedestrian, bicycle and vehicle traffic facilities.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the City hereby requests a variance from the Minnesota Department of Transportation State Aid Operations Rules Chapter 8820.9936(e) Minimum Design Standards to allow a single through-traffic lane with an off-street multiuse trail facility in lieu of two through-traffic lanes;
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Saint Paul City Council hereby indemnifies, saves and hold harmless the State of Minnesota and its agents and employees of and from claims, demands, actions, or causes of action arising out of or by reason of a multiuse trail from the Plato ...
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