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Introduction
Project
Jason Wedel, PE, Public \Uorks Director/City Engineer
City of Prior Lake
Matt Pacyna, PE, Principal
E-ily Gross, PE, Senior Engineer
October 1.2,2077
CH 21 Downtown Prior Lake Reconstruction -
Draft Memorandum
Transportation Assessment
.lRF Na. 10tr6.00
Local
The
:.
A)Preserve
B)Provide network for nonmotonzed transportation that is
compatibie m^lor corridors
C) Safety: Safely along the major transportation corridors
D) Mobility:Enhance ty on major transportation corridors
E) Local Ivlaintain and enhance local roadvzay system
F) Inftastructure: Provide infrastructure irnprovements compatible with the natural and human
enr,,ironment
G) Cost:Develop a financially responsible infrastructure implementation plan
The Citv of Prior Lake selected SRF to provide traffrc engineering services pertaining to local impacts
with the planned Counry Highway 21 Downtorvn Prior Lake Reconstruction and associated alternative
der.'elopment process (see Figure 1: Project Location). SRF has been involved with the proiect
management team (PM! throughout the srudy process, providing input, reviewing technical results,
and attending various public meetings. SRF' has revierved the draft Existing Traf;c Conditions
Memorandum (September 25, 2O1l) and the f-rlure Trafic Condilions Meruorandum (October 4, 201,7)
completed by Boiton & Menk. However, these documents focus on operations along CH 21 and do
not provide a comprehensive local transportation assessment. Therefore, SRF conducted a
supplemental local transportatien assessmeot to better understand how CH 2L alternadves would be
expected to impact the local transportation system. The following informarion provides a summary
of the proposed alternatives evaluation and the associated impacts to the local transportation system.
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Conrultiog Croup, lnc,
1 0536.00
October 20'17
CH 21 Downtown Prior Lake Reconstruction - Local Transportation Assessment
City of Prior Lake
Figure 1
Jason Wedel, PE
Ciry of Prior Lake
October 1.2,2017
CH 21 Downtorvn Prior Lake Reconstruction - Local Transportation Assessment
Existing CH 21 Conditions
The ExistingTraf;c Conditions Memorandum, dated September 25, 2017, included vehicular/pedestrian
intersection turning movement counts, vehicular trar.,el speeds on CH 2L, a safety analysis, and
intersection f corrtdor traffic operations. Intersections along CH 21. at MN Highway 13, Main Avenue,
Arcadia Avenue, and Duluth Avenue, as well as the MN Highway 13 fPleasant Street intersection were
included in this assessment, which is summarized as follows:
1) Crash and severity rates at the srudy intersections/corridor generally fall below ^yer^ge rates for
locations with sirnilar characteristics, except the CFI 21 /Duluth Al,enue intersection, which has a
high percent of dght-angle crashes (i.e. northbound left- and eastbound thru crashes).
2) The CH 21/IVIN Highway 13 intersection operates at an overall LOS F during the p.m. peak hour
as a result of the current traf{rc signal operation/roadway configuration (i.e. spJit phasing).
3) Eastbound queues from the CH 21/1VIN Highway 13 intersection frequendy extend beyond the
CH 21, /NIarn Avenue intersection during peak periods; occasionally, westbound queues from the
CH21,/Marn Avenue intersection extend to the CH 21/MN Highway 13 intersection.
4) Due to congestion along CH 21 between N{N Highway 13 and Main Avenue, motorists were
observed using alternative routes (i.e. through downtown) to avoid congestion.
Existing Local Transportation System Conditions
Data Gollection/0bservations
Supplemental short-duration (i.e. 15-minute) taffic volumes were collected on the local roadway
network dudng the a.m. and p.m. peak periods at the following intersections. This data was used to
supplement historical and existing data along the local transportation system to set the baseline
condition to which each alternative can be compared.
1) Duluth Avenue/Colorado Street 5) Main Avenue/760th Street
2) Duluth Avenue/Pleasant Street 6) Main AvenuefDakota Street
3) Arcadia Avenue/Dakota Street 7) Main Avenue/Colorado Street
4) Arcadia Avenue/Colorado Street B) Main Ar,,enue/Pleasant Street
The local transpottation system is made up of primarily two-lane roadways with 30 miles per hour
(-ph) posted speed limits. The Duluth Avenue/Colorado Street, Duluth Avenue/Pleasant Street,
Main Avenue/Dakota Street, and Main Avenue/Pleasant Street intersections have all-way stop
control. The remaining iocal intersections are side-street stop controlled. Existing conditions are
summarized in F'igure 2.
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PM. Peak Hour Volume
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10536
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Figure 2ffiHr21 Downtown Prior Lake Reconstruction - Local Transportation AssessmentCH
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Jason Wedel, PE,
Ciry of Prior Lake
October 12,2077
CH 21 Downtorvn Pr^ior Lake Reconstruction - Local Transportation Assessment
Travel Patterns
A review of collected trafFrc volume patterns and field observations indicate that motorists are using
downtown local toadways to access downtown businesses. but also as alternative routes to
avoid congestion at the CH 21lMN Highway 13 intersection. The following observed alternati'i,e
routes (through the downtown local roadvtay network) were identified and are illustrated in Figure 3.
1) Tof from MN Highway 13 to the south and CH 21 to the west
4 Motorists traveling northbound on MN Highway 1.3 and destined for westbound CH 21, are
using Duluth Avenue as an altertative route.
b) Motorist traveling eastbound on CH 21 and destined for southbound MN Highway 1.3 are
using Duluth Avenue as an altetnative route.
2) Tof from MN Highway 13 to the north and CH 21 to the west
4 Motorist traveling eastbound on CH 27 and destined for northbound MN Highway 13 are
using both Arcadia Avenue and Main Avenue as an alternative route.
b) Motorists tra'rleling southbound on MN Highway 73 and destined for westbound CH 27 are
using Main Avenue andf or Dakota Street/Arcadia Avenue as an alternative route.
3) From MN Highway 13 to the south and destined for MN Highway 13 to the north
4 Motorists traveling southbound on MN Highway 1.3 and destined for southbound
IviN Highway 13 are using Main Avenue to Pleasant Street as an alternative route.
Historical Tratfic Volumes
Historical traffic volumes along local roadways rvere reviewed to understand how area traffi.c r.,olumes
have chansed over the vears. In general. ttafftc volumes along the local transDortation svstem
within Downtown Prior Lake have been steady or decreased over the past l0-plus years.
A summary of the local roadway historical average daly traffrc volumes is provided in Figure 4.
Crash History
Crash data on the local roadways within Downtown Prior Lake was obtained from the Minnesota
Crash MappingAnalysis Tool (MnCNLAT) for the period fromJanuary 1,2071to December 31,201.5,
which represents the most recent fir,e-year period available. During that period, crashes were reported
at the following locations:
1) Near the Duluth Avenue/Pleasant Street intersection (2)
2) Near the Arcadia Avenue/Dakota Street intersection (1)
3) Along Dakota Street between Arcadia Avenue and MN Highway 13 (2)
4) At the Main Street/I(op Parkway intersection (2)
The amount of repofted crashes does not suggest any safety issues on local roadways within
the studv area from a freouencv DersDective.
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I;irl Observed Alternative Routes Through Downtown During Peak Periods
Conrultiog Group, lnc.
'10536.00
October 20'17
CH 21 Downtown Prior Lake Reconstruction - Local Transportation Assessment
City of Prior Lake
Figure 3
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cH 21 Downtown Prior Lake Reconstruction - Local rransportation Assessment
City of Prior Lake
Coneulllog Croup, lnc.
1 0536.00
October 2017
Figure 4
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Main (North of CH 21)
2015 = 3,450
2013 = 3,650
2011 = 4,050
2009 = 4,650
2007 = 5,000
2005 = 5,600
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2015 = 1,100
2013 = 1,150
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2012 = 13,900
2010 = '14,900
2008; 13,700
2006. 14,800
2011 = 1,400
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2015 = 715
2011 = 630
Dakota(EastofMain) I
2015 = 780
2013 = 700
2011 = 650
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2015 = 4,500
2013 - 4,850
2011 = 4,300
2009 = 4,050
2007'4,950
2005 = 5,300
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2016 = 12,800
2013 = 14,300
2011 = 10,700
2009 = 10,200
2007 = 11,7A0
2005 = 12,800
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2015 = 420
2013 = 370
2011 = 430
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2015= 1,250
2013 = 1,650
20'11 = 1,850
2009 = 2,000
2007 =2,100
2005 = 1,850
Main (South of CH 21)
2015 = 1,900
2013 = 1,800
2011 = 2,000
2009 = 2,350
2007 =2,550
2005 = 2,750
' TH 13 (South of CH 2'l)
2015 = 16,100
2012: 16,000
2010 = 15,600
2008 = 17,900
2006 = 15,500
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Jason Wedel, PE
Citl' of Prior Lake
()ctober 1.2,201.7
CH 21 Downtorvn Pdor Lake Reconstruction - Local Transportation Assessment
Pedestrian Network
Within the study area, the existing pedestrian
network includes sidwalks, boardwalks, Ciq'
trails, and the Scott West Regional Trail (see
mapped nerrvork on the rieht). In gener4l
the downtown area sidewalk network is
well built out with few gaps. Along CH 2L
at MN Highway 13 and IVIain Avenue there
are marked crosswalks across CH 21. There
are no marked crosswalks across CH 21, at
Acardia Avenue or Duluth Avenue. In lVlay
20L7, 1,3-hour courits were conducted that
identified the number of pedestrians crossing
CH 21. at Duluth Avenue (t-o), Arcadia
Avenue (11) and Main Avenue (45). lVhile
this srudy focuses on CH 21 between MN
Highway 13 and Duluth Avenue, it should be
noted that crossing and walking/biking along
CH 21 west of Duluth Avenue, where the roadway curves, can be uncomfortable due to the close
proximity (i.e. a lack of buffer) between the roadway and the sidewalk/trail.
Parking Utilization
Parking ut-ilization data was coilected as part of the PiorLake Downtown ParkingStadl - Existingand
Fulare Conditions study (memorandum dated October 201,4). The utilization data rvas reviewed to
understand impacts to are^ parking. On-street and ofEstreet parking utilization counts were collected
in the downtown area on a weekday during the morning (9:00 a.m.), afternoon (2:00 p.m.), and evening
(6:00 p.m.). North of CH 21, parking utilization rates @ercent of parking spaces occupied)
range ftom 34 to 45 percent, where the highest parking demand occurred in the afternoon.
South of CH 21, patking utilization rates range from 26 to 39 percent of parking spaces
occupied. where the highest parking demand occurred in the eveninp..
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Jason !7ede1, PE
Ciry of Prior Lake
October 12,2017
CH 21 Downtown Pdor Lake Reconstruction - Local Transportation Assessment
Alternatives Overv:ew
As discussed in the Future Trnfr, Conditions Mernoranduru (dated October 4,2017), four alternatives were
selected fot further evaluation. An oven iew of each remaining CLI 21 alternative, as well as some key
differentiators are provided as follows.
Alternative A-l (Arcadia with Signal)
This alternative was submitted and awarded federal funding. Alternatir,,e A-1 expands the CH27/
IVIN Highway 13 intersection to accommodate eastbound/westbound left- and right-turn lanes, as
well as dual northbound and southbound left-turn lanes. The addition of the turn lanes allow the signal
phasing at the CH 21/MN Highway 13 intersection to change from the current split-phased operation
to protected/permitted phasing, which provides increased capacity and signal timing flexibility. Other
key differentiators include:
1) Full Access at MN Highway 13 (Signal) and Arcadia Avenue (Signal)
2) Three-Quarter Access along MN Highway 13 atPleasant Street
a. Consideration was given to shifting the intersection to the south, however due to cost the
three-quarter is shown at the same loca[ion as it currendy exists. The northbound left-rurn
storage has been modified to accommodate both the dual northbound left-rurns at the
CH 21/MN Highway 13 intersection, as rvell as a northbound left-turn lane at Pleasant Street.
3) Righrln/Right-Out EIRO) Access along CH 21 atMainAvenue and Duluth Avenue
4) CI7 21. Pedestrian Crossings at MN Highway 13, Main Avenue, and Arcadia Ar-enue.
a. The MN Highway 13 and Arcadia Ar,,enue crossings are controlled (srgnal) and the Main
Avenue crossing is designed as a two-stage crossing with the opportunity to install a
rectangular rapid flashing beacon (R.RFB) or a hybrid pedestrian crosswalk (HAW$
5) The estimated cost is $7.1M.
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Jason Wedel, PE
Ciry of Prior Lake
October 12,201.7
CH 21 Downtor.vn Prior Lake Reconstruction - Local Transportation Assessment
Alternative A-2 (Arcadia with Roundabout)
Alternative A-2 includes a multi-Iane roundabout at the CH 21/MN Highway 13 intersection. Other
key differentiators include:
1) Full Access at MN Highway 13 (Roundabout) and Arcadra Avenue (R.oundabout)
2) Three-Quarter Access along CH 2L atMain Avenue and Duluth Avenue
3) Three-Quarter Access along MN Highway 13 at Pleasant Street
^. This intersection remains in the same location as it currendy exists due to the CH 21 /
MN Highway 13 multiJane roundabout and allows the northbound left-turn movemerit which
is not currendy allowed.
4) CH 2L Pedestrian Crossings at IVIN Highway 13, Main Avenue, Arcadia Avenue, and Duluth
Avenue.
a. A1l crossings are designed as rwo-stage crossings with the opportunity to install a rectangular
rapid flashing beacon (RRFB) or a hybrid pedestrian crosswalk (HAWK).
5) The estimated cost is $7.3M.
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Jason \X/edel, PE
City of Prior Lake
October 12,2017
CH 21 Dovzntown Prior Lake Reconstn:ction - Local Transportation Assessment
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Alternatlve B-1 (Main with Signa!)
Alternative B-1 expands the CH 21/MN Highway 13 intersection to accommodate eastbound/
westbound left- and right-turn lanes, as well as dual northbound and southbound left-turn lanes. The
addition of the turn lanes allows the signal phasing at the CH 21/MN Highway 13 intersection to
change from the current split-phased operation to protected/permitted phasing, which provides
increased capacity and signal timing flexibiJity. Other key differentiators include:
1) Full Access at MN Highway 13 (Signal), Main Avenue (Signal), and Duluth Avenue (R.oundabout)
2) Three-Quarter Access along CH 21 at Arcadta Avenue
3) fught-In/Right-Out SIRO) Access along MN Highway 13 at Pleasant Street
^. This is the current intersection location and access configutation. A sub-alternative would be
to modi$r/shorten the northbound left-turn lane storage at CH 21/MN Highway 13 to allow
the northbound left-turn movemeflt to Pleasant Street (as shown in Alternative A-1).
4) CH 2l Pedestrian Crossings at MN Highway 13, Main Avenue, and Duluth Avenue.
a. The MN Highway 13 and Main Avenue crossings are controlled (stgnal) and the Duluth
Avenue crossing is designed as a two-stage crossing with the opportunity to install a
rectangular rapid flashing beacon (R.RFB) or a hybrid pedestrian crosswalk (HA\7I9.
5) The estimated cost is $7.2M.
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.fason Wede1, PE
City of Prior Lake
October 72,2017
CH 21 Downtorvn Prior Lalie Reconstruction - Local Transportalion Assessment
Alternative B-2 (Main with Roundabout)
Alternadve B-2 includes a multi-lane toundabout at the CH 21/MN Flighway 13 intersection. Other
key diffetentiators inciude:
1) Full Access at MN Highway 13, Main Avenue, and Duluth Avenue (All Roundabouts)
2) Three-Quarter Access along CH 21 at Arcadra Avenue
3) fughrln/Right-Out EiRO) Access along MN Highway 1.3 atPleasant Street
a. This is the current intersection location and access configuration. A sub-alternative would be
to allow the northbound left-turn mo\rement to Pleasant Street (as shown in Alternative A-2).
4) CH 21. Pedestrian Crossings at MN Highway 1.3,Marn Avenue, and Duluth Avenue.
a. All crossings are designed as two-stage ctossings with the opportuniry to install a rectangular
rapid flashing beacon (RRFB) or a hybrid pedestrian crosswalk (FL{WK).
5) The estimated cost is $7.35M.
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Jason Wedel, PE
City of Prior Lake
October 12,2077
CH 21 Downtorvn Prior Lake Reconstruction - Locai Transportation Assessment
Alternative Evaluation (Local Transportation Perspective)
The remaining four CH21, alternatives were evaluated ftom a local transportation perspective to assess
impacts to ^re travel patterns, roadway capacity, safety, access, and downtown compatibiliry from a
land use and streetscaping perspective. This evalua[ion utilizes data provided in the Future Trafiic
Condilions Memorandum, dated October 4, 2077, as well as supplemental information reviewed and
analyzed by SRF as part of the local transportation system evaluation. The foliowing information
ptovides an overall sumrnary of the alternalive impacts for several key characteristics, as well as the
key local transportation system take away (undedined and bolded).
Physical - Travel Pattern Changes
Physical changes to travel patterns are direcdy related to proposed access (i.e. full-access versus partial
access) and traffic control types. The "A" alternatives assume primary intersections at MN Fiighrvay
13,Matn Avenue, and Duluth Al'enue, whereas the "B" alternatives assume pnmary intersections at
lvIN Highway 73 and Arcadia A.",enue. Alternatives A-1/B-1 and A-2/B-2 differ based on if a
signalized or roundabout traffic control is assumed. A summary of the proposed access and traflrc
controls are provided in Table 1 and illustrated in Figure 5.
Table 1. Alternative Access/Traffic Control
lntersection
cH 21lMN 13 Full - RAB
Cl1 21/Main Full - RAB
CH 27/Arcadia 3rl4 Access
CH 21lDuluth Full - RAB
MN 13lPleasant RIRO 3/4 Access 3/4 Access RIRO RIRO
Note: RAB - Roundabout; AIVSC - A//-wa1 Stop Coatrul; SSS - Side-Street Stop Connv/
The access modifications associated with these alternatives impact where and how motorists access
downtown. As such, each alternative was revierved to deterrnine/quanti$r the options that motorists
arriving from each direction can access either north or south downtown, including traveling betrveen
north and south dorvntown (i.e. across CH 21). Pedestrian access across CIl, 21, was also reviewed.
Based on this revierv, which is summarized in Table 2 and illustrated in Figure 6, motorists and
pedestrians ttaveling to downtown from any direction will have a minimum of two options to
access downtown. Although each alternative provides less access than currentllr exists.
maintaining two options to access downtown from each direction is considered reasonable
ftom a transDortation svstem oersoective.
No Build
(lxisting)
A-1 Arcadia
Signal
A-2 Arcadia
Roundabout
B-1 Main
Signal
B-2 Main
Roundabout
Full - Signal Full - Signal Full - RAB Full - Signal
Full - AWSC RIRO 3ri4 Access Full - Signal
Full - SSS Full - Signal Full - RAB 3,/4 Access
Full - SSS R'RO 3/4 Access Full - RAB
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fIill CH 21 Proiect Alternatives
1 0536
oclober 2017
Figure 5CH 21 Downtown Prior Lake Reconstruction - Local Transportation Assessment
City ot Prior Lake
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ftRl Route Options to Access Downtown
1 0536
Odober2017
Figure 6CH 21 Downtown Prior Lake Reconstruction - Local Transportation Assessmenl
City of Prior Lake
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Jason Wedel, PE
City of Prior Lake
October 72,2077
CH 21 Downtorvn Pdor Lake Reconstmction - Local Transportation Assessment
Table 2. Route Optiolrs to Access Downtown
Number of Route Options by Direction ol Travel
Arriving From
Alternative 8-L/B,-2
(Primary at Main/Duluth)
Downtown
North
South
EaSt
West
Across CH 21 3 (Veh.) and 4 (Ped.)2 (Veh.) and 3-4 (Ped.)2 (Veh.) and 3 (Ped.)
Physical - Driveway lmpacts
With access modifications along CH21,, ser,,eral of the alternatives impact access to adjacent driveways,
particulady the altetnatives where full-access (either a signal ot roundabout) at Main Avenue is
provided. The following information describes and illusttates how each alternative may be impacted:
1) Existing and Alternatives A-1 and A-2: No physical driveway impacts are expected
2) Alternative B-1 : Driveway impacts along Main Avenue are primarily related to intersection
operations, where northbound and southbound vehicular queues ftom the CH 2L /Maln Avenue
intersection will regulady block driveways on Main Avenue, as well as access to Colorado Street
and Erie Avenue. From a transpofiation system perspective, Alternative B-1 would negatively
impact access, mobility, and circulation within the downtown. Vhen queuing of this
magnitude occurs. business driveway closures andlor access restrictions (RIRO) would
typically be recommended to address these concerns.
3) Alterna[ive B-2: Driveway impacts along Main Avenue are primarily related to the proximity and
physical property needs of the CH 21/Main Avenue roundabout. The proximity of existing access
(i.e. the hardware store, Colorado Street, and
Erie Street) is located within the decision
distance of CH 21 ard has the potential to
create safety issues along both Main Avenue,
as well as CH 21,. Frcm a transportation
svstem perspective. Altemative B-2 would
negatively impact access, mobiliW. and
citculation within the downtown. Vhen
access is located within this type of
proximity, business driveway closures
andlor access restrictions (RIRO) would
wpicallv be recommended to address
these concems.
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Existing Alternative A-1"/A-2
(Primary at Arcadia)
Downtown
North of CH 21
Downtown
south of cH 21
Downtown
North of CH 21
Downtown
South of CH 21
Downtown
North of cH 21
4 J 4 3 4
2 4 2 4 2
z 4 a 4 2
2 4 2 4 2
16
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Jason Wedel, PE
Citl' of Prior Lake
October 1.2,201.7
CH 21 Downtorvn Prior Lake Reconstmction - Local Transportation Assessment
Physical - Roadway Cross-Sections and Parking lmpacts
The alternatives were rer..ievzed with respect to potential parking impacts due to traffic volume
increases, expected traffic queues, andf or physical right-of-way needs for the CH 21 improvements.
A portion of the on-sfteet angled parking along Main Avenue may need to be removed under
Alternatives R-1 and B-2. A parking impact sulrunarT for Alternatit es B-1 andB-2 are as follows:
1) Alternative B-1: Parking impacts along Main Avenue are pimartly due to intersection queues at
the CH 21 lMain Avenue intersection, which are expected to regulady block access to parking
spaces within one-block north and south of CH2L. These queues create conflicts and potentiai
safety concerns. Addiuonal review/consideration is needed to determine how many ofl-street
parking spaces would need to be temor,,ed to safely accommodate vehicular operations.
2) Alternative B-2:Pad<tngimpacts along Main Avenue south of CH 27 are related to the proximity
and physical property needs of the CH 21, /Main Avenue roundabout. To accommodate the
roundabout, at a minimum, patking spaces between CH 21 and Colorado Street would likely need
to be removed.
Parking is currendy permitted on both sides of Colorado Street and Pleasant Street between Duluth
Avenue and Main Avenue. Horvever, the widths of these roadways are approximately 30 feet and
34 feet, respectively. To allow for adequate space for two tra'r'el lanes in each direction, the City may
'$/ant to consider restricting parking to one-side of the roadway along Colorado Street and
Pleasant Street. While this is an existing need, the need to restrict parking is more prevalent under
Alternatives A-1 and A-2 and along Colorado Street. Traffic volumes along Colorado Street, between
Duluth Avenue and Main Avenue, are anttctpated to increase as a result of motorists rerouting from
restricted movements at Duluth Al,enue and Main Avenue. An illustration of the existing and
proposed Colorado Street cross-sections are shown below. These cross-section/parking
modifications along Colorado Stteet and Pleasant Street are not expected to significantly
impact parking within downtown given the utilization data collected as part of the downtown
trarking studv in2014.
Colorado $lreet {fxislhg}
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Colorado Street {Prr
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Jason Wede1, PE
Cirl' of Prior Lake
October 12,2077
CH 21 Downtorvn Prior Lake Reconstruction - Local Transportation Assessment
Operationa! - CH 21. Corridor TravelTimes
AII four alternatives are expected to improve corridot travel times during peak conditions in both
directions along CH 21, compared to the existing roadway configuration. A summary of the estimated
eastbound and westbound corridor travel [imes under year 2040 conditions for each alternative are
summarized in Table 3. The results indicate that the two roundabout altematives (A-2 and B-2)
orovide the shortest corridor travel times.
Table 3. Estimated Year 2O4O CH 21 Travel Times
Year 2O4O Peak Hour
Alternative Travel Time (Percent lmprovement from Existing)
B-2
EB Travel Time (s)
Duluth Ave ro lvN 13
45 (7svo)
70 (85%)
WB Travel Time (s)
Duluth Ave to MN 13
1tO (7Oo/o)
PM 430 (0%)t]o (75Yo)s5 (85%)100 (7s%)45 (e0%)
It should be noted that the roundabout alternatives have less intersection delay and generally
slower corridor speeds in between intersections whereas the signal alternatives have higher
intetsection delay and higher speed in between intersections.
Operational - Local Roadway Traffic Volumes
Changes in the local roadway rtaffr,cvolumes were esdmated based on the proposed access restrictions
for each alternarive. From a capacity perspective. the local roadway system can accommodate
the change in year 2040 traffic volumes that are expected based on each altemative. The
expected taffi,c volume changes to the local roadway network are illustrated in Figure 7. Note that if
no improvements were made, more motorists using downtown as an alternative route due to increased
CH 21/MN Highway 13 congestion are expected.
1) Alternatives A-7 and A-2
4 Due to northbound/southbound access restrictions along CH 21 atMainAvenue and Duluth
Avenue, motorists are expected to reroute to Arcadia Avenue or MN Highway 13.
b) Improved operations along CH 21, atthe Main Avenue and NIN Highway 13 intersections are
expected to reduce the number of motorists using the downtorvn local road'uvay network as an
alternative route during the peak periods.
2) Alternatives B-1, andB-2
4 Due to northbound/southbound access restrictions along CH 27 at Arcadia Avenue,
motorists are expected to reroute to Main A-",enue or Duluth Avenue.
b) Improved operations along CH 21 atthe Main Avenue and MN Highway 13 intersections are
expected to reduce the number of motorists using the downtotvn local roadway network as an
alternative route during the peak periods.
Existing A-1 A-2 B-1
AIV 175 (0%)70 (60%)45 (7syo)75 (55%)
PM 42O (Oo/o)150 (65%)80 (80%)225 (s0vo)
AM 375 (0%)180 (50%)lto (7Oo/")165 (55%)
1B
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Iilirt CH 21 Downtown Prior Lake Improvment Project Alternatives - Tratfic Volumes
LEGEND
3try - No Arcadia Ave. Extension to Plesant Ave.
iXX) - With Arcadia Ave. Extension to PlesantAve.
ConrullinS 6roup, lnc,
'10536.00
October 201 7
CH 21 Downtown Prior Lake Reconstruction - Local Transportation Assessment
City of Prior Lake
Figure 7
AIL:,
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'ra atfI2040 NB =
Alt. A-1/A-2 =
Alt. B-1/B-2 =
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5,500
2,300
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oo
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NB = 1,400 (1,200)r
IA-1lA-2 = 3,300 (2,800)2040 NB =
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I B-1lB-2 = 1,800 (1,600)A-1lA-2=
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J,= 2,4CI0
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A-llA-2=
B-1lB-2=
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NB
NB = 1,600 (1,800)
A-1lA-2 = 1,600 (2,500)
B-1lB,-2 = 1,600 (1,800)
Jason \X/ede1, PE
Ciry of Prior Lake
October 1.2,2017
CH 21 Downtorvn Prior Lake Reconstn:ction - Local Transportation Assessment
Since the access resftictions are geflerally the same, the volume impacts to the local roaduzay network
are expected to be similar for Alternatives A-1/A-2 versus Alternatives B-1, /B-2. However, it should
be noted that the roundabout alternatives are expected to better facilitate U-turns along CH 21
as compared to the signal alternatives. While it is difficuit to quantity how many motorists will
chose to make a U-turn rather than use the local system to divert to their desired location, facilitating
the f]-tum movement at the roundabouts Drovide additional route ootions for motorists.
Quanti{ring the current level of motorists diverting through downtown or via other local roadways
during the peak periods is difficult. However, we understand that each of the alternatives will
improve CH 21 cotridor operations and would result in less motorists diverting through the
downtown than currently occurs. Gaining a better understanding how each alternative will impact
local roadway peak hour and daily traffic volumes could provide the City with an improved decision.
To achieve this, for all altematives. there is the option to construct the proiect in phases. This
would entail reconstructing the CH 21/MN Highway 13, CH 27 /Marn Avenue, and TH 13 fPleasant
Street intersections as part of Phase 1, while the remaining CH 27 corutdor (i.e. Duluth Avenue to
Arcadia Avenue) could be reconstructed as part of Phase 2. By phasing the imptovements/
construction, this would allow time to observe/analyze how Phase 1 improvements impact
atea ttaffic volumes /travel patterns and allow stakeholders time to make a more informed
decision regarding the remaining infrastructure needs.
Operationa! - Year 2O4O Delay and Queues
Whjie it is good practice to evaluate future taffic operations under a long-term scenario (i.e. year 2040
traffi.c fotecasts), the transportation industry is undetgoing rapid change. How/when implementation
of connective and autonomous vehicles will significantly impact tra.ffrc operations and safety. The
evolving vehicle technologv should also be taken into consideration when reviewing the
following key findings of the intersection capaciqv analysis (i.e. level of service and queues)
for each alternative.
1) Alternative A-1
4 The CH 21/lvIN Highway 13 intersection operates at an overall LOS E, during the a.m. and
p.m. peak hours. All othet study intersections operate acceptably (LOS C or better).
b) rJTestbound queues fiom the CH 21/MN Highway 13 intersection extend 1,350 feet during
the a.m. pea( southbound queues extend 7,425 feet during the p.m. peak.
2) Alternative A-2
4 The CH 21/MN Highway 13 intersection operates at an overall LOS E during the a.m. peak
hour. A1l other study intersecdons operare acceptably (LOS C or better).
b) Westbound queues from the CH 21/MN Highway 13 intersection extend 2,000 feet during
the a.m. peak; southbound queues extend 1,400 feet during the p.m. peak.
.) Westbound left-turn queues at the CFI 21/Duiuth Avenue intersecrion extend 650 feet dudng
the p.m. peak, which extends through the Arcadia Avenue intersection.
20
Jason Wedel, PE
City of Prior Lake
October 12,2017
CH 21 Downtorvn Prior Lake Reconstruction - Local Transportation Assessment
3) Altetnatir,,e B-1
a) The CH 21/MN Highway 13 intersection operates at an overall LOS E during the a.m. and
p.m. peak hours. All other study intersections operate acceptably GOS D or better).
b) Westbound queues from the CH 21/MN Highway 13 intersection extend 1,150 feet during
the a.m. peak; southbound queues extend 975 feet during the p.m. peak.
.) Southbound queues at CH 21/MainAvenue extend 350 to 400 feet during the a.m. and p.m.
peak hours; Southbound queues extend 200 to 350 feet during the p.m. peak. These queues
will significandy inhibit downtown access, mobility, circulation, and parking.
4) Alternative B-2
4 The CH 21/MN Highway 13 intersection operates at an overall LOS E, during the a.m. peak
hours. All other study intersections/time periods operate acceptably (LOS D or better).
b) $Testbound queues from the CH 21/MN Highway 13 intersection extend 2,125 feet during
the a.m. peak; southbound queues extend 1,325 feet during the p.m. peak.
.) Eastbound queues at the CH 21 /MainAvenue intersection extend approximately 750 feet and
westbound queues extend approximately 300 feet during the p.m. peak hour. These
westbound queues have the potential to impact traffrc operations at the CH 21/MN Highrvay
13 intersection.
Based on the caoaciw analvsis. Alternatives A-2 and B-2 (roundabouts) orovide the best
ooerations at the CH 21lMN Hishwav L3 intersection and less notential for imDacts to the
local transportation system as compared to the signal alternatives. However, northbound/
southbound queues at the CH 2llMain Avenue intersection under Alternative B-1 will
significantly inhibit downtown access, mobility, circulation, and parking. In addition, the
nroximitv of the two roundabouts on CH 21 at MN Hichwav 13 and Main Avenue (i.e.
Alternative B-2) provides more risk of queues impacting CH 21lMN Highway 13 operations
than the other alternatives.
Operational - Vehicular Safety
MnDOT estimated the crash rate (i.e. number of crashes per million entering vehicles) and severity
rate (weighted crash rate based on the number of injury-related or fatal type crashes per million
entering vehicles) for high volume/low speed signals and multi-lane roundabouts. For comparison
purposes the average crash rates and severity rates for eachtaffi.c control are summarized below.
1) Signal Crash Rate: 0.7 crashes per MEV and Severity Rate: 0.97 injury crashes per MEV
2) Roundabout Crash Rate; 1.4 crashes per MEV and Sevedry Rate: 0.39 injury crashes per MEV
In addition, MnDOT publishes crash values based on the severity of the crash. These crash values are
published to assist with benefit-cost studies. The assumed crash costs include, Fatal ($11,000,000),
Injury A ($590,000), Injury B ($170,000), Injury C ($87,000), and Property Damage ($7,800).
21
Jason Wedel, PE
City of Prior Lake
()ctober 12,2017
CH 21 Downtorvn Prior Lake Reconstnrction * Local Transportation Assessment
The main differentiator berween Alternatives A-1/B-1 and Alternatives A-2/B-2 is signaiized versus
multi-lane roundabout traflrc controls. Using this information, Alternatives A-1 and B-1 are expected
to result in a lower crash frequency, but higher severity type crashes, while Alternatives A-2 andB-2
are exDected to result in a hisher crash frequencv. bul fewer severe crashes. If the weighted crash
costs are the same between the alternatives, the less severe t!4re crash alternatives should be
favored.
Operational - Pedestrian Safety
Research indicates the following
^-verz.ge
driver yield rates for pedestrians at various crossing rypes
and ttafftc controls:
1) Marked crosswalk/pedestrian crossing warning signage: 7 percent
2) Marked crosswalk with center island pedestrian refuge area: 34 percent
3) Marked crosswalk with RRFB: 84 percent
4) Marked crosswalkwith HA\XrI(: 97 percent
5) Marked crosswalk at a mula-lane roundabout: 41 percent
6) Signalized intersections: 99 petcent
7) All-Way Stopped Control intersections: 99 percent
Based on this reseatch, the proposed pedestrian crossing treatmeflts for each alternative were reviewed
and compared, particulady with respect to crossing CH 21,:
1) Alternative A-1:
4 Pedestrian crossings are provided at three (3) Iocations along CH 21 at MN Highway 13
(signal), Main Avenue (unsignalized with a RRFB or HAWK), and Arcadia Avenue (signal).
b) Signals pro'i,ide the highest driver yield rates for pedestrians.
.) Two-stage pedestrian crossings at Main ,\,enue with a RRFB or HA\YT( is expected to
provide safe operations with relatively low crossing delay (approximately 15 seconds or less).
d) No marked pedestrian crossings are indicated at the Duluth Avenue intersection, but there is
room to provide a pedestrian refuge island if a crossing is desired at this location. There would
also be the opportunity to enhance this crossing with a RRFB or HA!UI(.
2) Alternative A-2:
4 Pedestrian crossings are provided at four (4) locations along CH 21 at MN Highway 13 (multi-
lane roundabout), Main Avenue (unsignalized with a RRFB or FIAWI!, Arcadia Avenue
(multiJane roundabout), and Duluth Avenue (unsignalized).
b) Pedestrians crossing at roundabouts have lower driver yield rates than at a signal. Horvel,er,
pedestrians can cross the roadr,vay in two-stages, ofle direction of travel at a time. There are
opportunities to improve driver yield rates by installing an RRFB and/or moving rhe crosswalk
location farther away from the roundabout to allow for better visibility of pedestrians.
22
Jason \7ede1, PE
City of Prior Lake
()ctober 12,2017
CH 21 Downtown Prior Lake Reconstruction - Local Transportation Assessment
.) A two-stage pedestrian crossing at Main Ar,,enue (with a RRFB or FIAWI! is expected to
provide safe operations with relatively low crossing delay (approximately 15 seconds or less).
3) Alternative B-1:
4 Pedestrian crossings are provided at three (3) locations along CH 21 at MN Highway 13
(signal), Main Avenue (signal), and Duluth Avenue (multiJane roundabout).
b) Signals provide the highest drir,,er yield rates for pedesrians.
.) No marked pedestrian crossings are indicated at the Arcadia Avenue intersection as there is
not sufficient space to provide a safe pedestrian crossing or refuge island.
d) Marked pedestrian crossings are provided at the Duluth Avenue muiti-lane roundabout
intersection. There are opportunities to improve driver yield rates by installing an RRFB if the
volume of pedestrian activity is warranted.
4) Alternative B-2:
4 Pedestrian crossings are provided at three (3) locations along CH 21 at NIN Highway 13 (multi-
lane roundabout), Main Avenue (multiJane roundabout), and Arcadia Avenue (multiJane
roundabout).
b) Pedestrians crossing at roundabouts have lower dri'yer yield rates than at a signal. However,
pedesrians can cross the roadway in two-stages, one direction of travel at a time. There are
oppofiunities to improve the driver yield rate by instaliing RRFBs andf or moving the
crosswalk location farther away from the roundabout to allow for better visibiJity of
pedestrians.
Average vehicles speeds through the intersections should also be considered when evaluating the
alternatives from a pedesrian safety perspective. For instance, motorists traveling through the
CH 21/IVIN Highway 13 intersection are expected to pass through at a r nge between 15 and 50 mph
undet the signal alternatives, whereas motorists are expected to travel ^t ^ range between 15 and
20 mph under the roundabout alternatives. In terms of pedestrian safety, the risk of severe injury of a
pedestrian stmck by a vehicle increases from25 percent at 25 mph to 90 percent ^t 45 mph, indicating
that fewer severe pedesttian-related incidents would be expected under the roundabout
altematives.
From a pedestrian access perspective, all alternatives provide at least three (3) north/south
crossings of CH 21. Alternative A-2 is the only option that provides four (4) north/south
pedestrian ctossings. From a pedestrian safery perspective, signals have higher driver yield rates
to pedestrians than at toundabouts. However, there are opportunities to enhance pedestrian
crossings to enhance driver yield rates. Caution should be used to avoid enhanced crossing
proliferation (i.e. avoid too many enhanced crossings) to ensure higher driver compliance.
23
Jason Wede1, PE,
Ciry of Prior Lake
October 1.2,201,7
CH 21 Downtorvn Prior Lake Reconstruction - Local Transportation Assessment
Compatibility - Land Use/Downtown Growth
The Ciry's vision for the downtown area is to condnue to grow west, towards Duluth Avenue,
particularly south of CH 21,. The current and planned land use zorung is consistent u/ith this vision,
although this transformation is expected to occur over several years, if at a11,. Market forces are
expected to drive any change in furure land use in the downtown area.
For purposes of the local transportation system
revierv associated with the CH 21/MN Highrvay 13
reconstrucdon, the primary question relates to full-
access at Arcadia Avenue (Alternatives A-1 and A-2)
or Duluth Avenue (Alternatives B-1 and B-2). Full-
access at either Arcadia Avenue or Duluth
Avenue will help facilitate downtown growth. A
full-access at Atcadia Avenue would ptovide
direct north/south vehicular connectivity in
downtown. which is particulady important
under Altematives A-L and A-2, which restrict
access at Main Avenue. However, this would likely
result in more motorists along Colorado Avenue, particular\ west of Arcadia Avenue, which is
currendy single-family residential.
Compatibility * Pla nned Transportation lmprovements
The 2012 Downtown South Studl recommended that Arcadia
Avenue be extended to the south providing a connection
between CLI21, and Pleasant Street. A future southern extension
that connects to the MN Highway 13/Duluth Avenue
intersection was also identiEed.
Based on the current options, Alternatives A-1 and A-2 support
the pre','ious planning efforts. However, gir,,en recent soil
condition data, the extension of Arcadia Avenue south of
Pieasant Avenue may be cost-prohibitir.,e. From a traffi.c
operations perspective, the extension of Arcadia Avenue to the
MN Highway 13/Duluth Avenue intersection would essentially
shift a portion of motorists from Duluth Avenue to Arcadia
Al,enue. The benefit of the Arcadia Avenue extension to
MN Highway 13lDuluth Avenue intersection is exoected
to be minimal.
I
t3
24
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"#
Jason Wedel, PE
City of Prior Lake
lntersection
No Bu jld (Existing)
Alternative A-1
Alternative A-2
Alternative B-1
Alternative B-2
Number of
lmpacted Parcels
aa
Number of Full
Acquisition Parcels
October 12,2017
CH 21 Downtorvn Prior Lake Reconstruction - Local Transportation Assessment
The extension of Arcadia A'l,enue to Pleasant Street continues to have merit, particulady from a
downtown circulation perspecrive. The Arcadia Avenue extension to Pleasant Street would help
balance vehicular activitv between Colotado Street and Pleasant Street, and provide motorists
with additional options to access/circulate downtown. Florvever, the Arcadia A-",enue extension
is expected to cost approximately $1.0M and may not provide the benefit relative to the cost. The
need for the Arcadia Avenue extension should be driven blr market forces as future downtown
redevelopment occurs within this area and does not need to be directly associated with the
CH 21lMN Highway 13 reconstruction proiect. The Arcadia Avenue extension could still be
implemented if Alternatives B-1 orB-2 were implemented, but rvould provide less benefit under these
scenarios.
Compatibility - Streetscape Opportunities
There are opportunities to incorporate streetscaping elements with all four alternatives. A score was
generated for each alternative based on the amount of green space that each alternative has al.ailable
for streetscaping elements. Streetscape elements could include items such as trees, planters, benches,
lighting, decorative pavement, bike racks, monr.ments, andf or wayfinding signage. Streetscaping
elements can change the corridot context and have the potenual to reduce r.ehicular speeds and
increase awareness of pedestrian activity. Alternatives A-2 and B-2 provide the best opportunity
to incorporate streetscaping elements. Alternative A-1 provides a good streetscaping
opportunity. while Alternative B-1 provides the lease amount of opportunities.
Compatibility - Property lmpacts
All alternatives impact parcels and require fuil acquisition of at least one parcel. The number of
impacted and full-acquisition parcels are summarizedinTable 4. Alternatives B-1 and B-2 have the
highest number of impacted parcels. but require only one full-acquisition. Alternatives A-1
and A-2. require two full-acouisition oarcels.
Table 4. Alternative Accessfiraffic Control
o
a
2
t
1
0
10
T4
19
25
Jason Wedel, PE
City of Prior Lake
October 72,2017
CH 21 Downtown Prior Lake Reconstruction - Local Transportation Assessment
Standalone Downtown lssues
Based on feedback received throughout the pubJic involvement process associated with the CH 21 /
MN Flighway 1,3 reconstruction project, there wete a few issue areas that were identified. A
oreliminarv review of these areas indicates that these ate existins issues and are not exDected
to be significantlv imnacted /either oositivelv or negativelv) bv the CH 21lMN Hiohwav 13
improvements. Therefore, these areas were reviewed independendy to determine potential miLigation
to address the existing issues, which could be incorporated regardless of the CH 21/MN Highway 13
reconstruction.
Dance Studio/Pedestrian Crossing
Current pedestrian crossing concerns at the existing Premiere Dance Academy, located north of
Colorado Street and east of Arcadia Avenue, were reviewed. Parking for the dance studio is located
off-street in a surface parking lot south of Colorado Street. The following key characteristics/issues
have been identified based on current conditions and feedback:
1) Unsafe pedestrian crossing conditions on Colorado Street, between the Premiere Dance Academy
and the parking lot to the south (westetn marked crossing).
2) Dance classes are from2:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
3) The roadway is dark and has Limited lighting.
4) Vehicles travel at high speeds and use Colorado Street as a cut-through to avoid the all-way stop
at the CH 21 /Ma:n Avenue intersection.
5) There are two marked pedestrian crossing locations on this segment of Colorado Street, both of
which have advanced pedestrian crossing warning signage.
6) The roadway width is approximately 30 feet.
7) On-street parking is permitted on both sides of the road.
Based on a review of the current crossing, ^ rznge of potential modifications that could be made to
improve pedestrian crossing in this location are summarized as follows. Note that once an alternative
is selected, these opdons may need to be further refi.ned/evaluated.
26
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a-3
Jason Wedel, PE
Ciry of Prior Lake
October 72,2017
CH 21 Downtorvn Prior Lake Reconstruction - Local Transportation Assessment
1) Construct curb bump outs/extensions at the marked pedestrian crossing iocations to improve the
pedestrian crossillg visibiJity and reduce vehicle speed by narrowing the travel lane width.
4 This could be for both the north and south sides of Colorado Street (or just the south side) to
reduce potential confLicts with the existing drop-off lane for the dance studio.
2) Improve lighting along Colotado Street andf or install pedestrian scale lighting at the marked
crosswalk locations.
3) Install ^ rectangul^r rapid flashing beacon at the marked crosswalk to improve dril,er yield rates.
4) Install in-road lighting, which would enhance the pedestrian crossing visibility, particularly at night.
5) Provide crossing guards during peak crossingandf or peak vehicle traffic rime periods.
6) Convert Colorado Street to a one-way westbound roadway to reduce cut-through traffrc from
eastbound vehicles on CH 21, as well as reduce the pedestrian crossing distance.
All reconstruction alternatives improve traffic operations on CH 21 at MN Highway 13 and Main
A-",enue, which should reduce the number of vehicles using Colorado Street as an alternative route.
However
and A2) traffic volumes on Colorado Street are expected to increase compared to Altematives
81 and 82 due to motorists rerouting to Arcadia Avenue to access south downtown. The
construction of the Atcadia Avenue extension between Colorado Street and Pleasant Street
would provide an alternative route for motorists and would reduce traffic volumes on Colorado
Street. Regardless of the alternatives. the pedestrian crossing improvement tactics listed
above would provide benefit to pedestrian crossing safety.
School Safety/Crossing
St. Michael's Catholic School is located west of Duluth Avenue and north of Pleasant Street.
Pedestrians were observed crossing Duluth Avenue at Pleasant Street during the a.m. and p.m. peak
hours. The Duluth Avenue/Pleasant Street intersection is unsignalized with ill,-way stop control and
no turn lanes. Undet all alternatives. regardless if Duluth Avenue is RIRO. three-quarter, or
full access, the total volume at the Duluth Avenue /Pleasant Street intersection is expected to
remain relatively similar. If Duluth Avenue is full-access, vehicles wili continue through on Duluth
Avenue. However, if access is restricted at Duluth Avenue, a portion of motorists would be expected
to reroute to Arcadia Avenue at Colorado Street or change their route and use NIN Highway L3. T}re
pedestrian facilities adiacent to the St Michael's Catholic School could be reviewed separate
of the CH 21lMN Hishwav 13 reconstruction.
27
Jason Wedel, PE
City of Prior Lake
October 1.2,201-7
CH 21 Downtorvn Prior Lake Reconstruction - Local Transportation Assessment
Arcadia Avenue/ Dakota Street
The Arcadia Avenue/Dakota Street intersection is currendy unsignalized with free-flow conditions
on Dakota Street and stop control for Arcadia Avenue. The pictures below illustrate a northbound
motorist's perspective waiting at the stop sign on Arcadia Avenue. As shown, when looking to the
v/est, the view of oncoming vehicles can be challenging due to the roadway grade, ttee, u':lidss, 2nd
parked vehicles. To address this concern. moditring the intersection to all-way-stop control
could be considered. Addressing these sight distance concerns is expected to become more cri[ical
under Alternatives A-1 and A-2, where traffrc volumes at the Arcadia Avenue/Dakota Street
intersection are anticipated to increase due to the access restriction at Nlain Avenue.
Alternative A Hybrid
Recendy, a new altenrative has been identified by the PMT that combines Alternatives A-7 and A-2
and is being tefered to as "Alternatir,,e A Hybrid." \fhile this alternative has not been fuily vetted, it
was reviewed from a highJevel persepective. Sirnilar to Alternative A-1, this alternative includes the
following:
1) Full Access at MN Highway 13 (Signal) and Arcadia Avenue (Roundabout)
2) Three-Quarter Access along CH 21 at Duluth A-",enue and MN Highway 13 atPleasant Street
a. The northbound left-turn storage has been modified to accornmodate both the dual
northbound left-turns at the CH 21/MN Highway 13 intersection, as well as a northbound
left-turn lane at Pleasant Street.
3) Righrln/fught-Out (RJRO) Access along CH 21 atNlatnAvenue
4) CH 2l Pedesuian Crossings at MN Highway 13, Main Avenue, Arcadia Avenue and Duluth
Avenue.
a. The MN Highway 13 crossing are controlled (signal) and while the other crossings are
designed as a two-stage crossing with the opportunity to install a rectangular rapid flashing
beacon ERFB) or a hybrid pedestrian crosswalk (FL\\\,K).
28
::fq
?._,7r '. 't
Jason Wedel, PE
City of Prior Lake
October 1,2,2017
CH 21 Downtorvn Prior Lake Reconstruction - Local Transportation Assessment
As pteviously menrioned, there is the option to option to construct the project in phases. This wouid
entail reconstructing the CH 21/MN Highway 13, CH 2|/Marn Avenue, and MN High:vay 13/
Pleasant Street intersections as part of Phase L, while the remaining CH 2L corridor (i.e. Duluth
Ar.,enue to Arcadia Avenue) could be reconstructed as part of Phase 2. By phasing the improvements/
construction, this would allow time to observe/ ana)yze how Phase 1 improvements impact area trafltc
volumes/travel patterns and allor.v stakeholders time to make a more inforrned decision regarding the
remaining infrastructure needs.
A highJevel evaluation of the hybrid option was reviewed and is summarized below based on the
same criteria used to evaluate the other alternatives.
1) Phvsical - Travel Pattern Chanses: Ivlotorists and oedestrians travelins to downtown from anv
direction will have a minimum of two oprions to access downtorvn (consistent with the
Alternatives A-1 / A-2 evaluation).
2\ Phvsical - Drivewav ImDacts: No ohvsical drivewav imoacts are exoected (consistent with the
Alternatives A-1 / A-2 evaluation).
3) Physical - Roadway Cross-Sections/Parking Impacts: Parking restrictions along Colorado
Street and Pleasant Street (tretween Duluth Avenue and Main Avenue) may need to be considered
to provide adequate space for two lanes of travel in each direction (consistent with the Alternatives
A-1/A-2 evaluation).
4) Opetational - CH 21 Cortidor Travel Times: The corridor travel time is expected to be between
Alternatives A-1 and A-2. As previously noted, roundabouts have less intersection delay and
generally slower corridor speeds in between intersections, whereas signals generally have higher
intersection delay and higher speed in between intersections.
5) Operational - Local Roadway Traffic Volumes: Tralllc volume impacts to the local roadrvav
network are expected to be similar to Alternatives A-1 and A-2. Holvever, roundabouts better
facllttate U-turns along CH 2L as compared to the signal alternadves.
29
rI
,
t:,a
a
:
Jason Wedel, PE
City of Prior Lake
October 12,20L7
CH 21 Downtown Prior Lake Reconstrr:ction - Local Transportation Assessment
6) Operational - Year 2040 Delay and Queues: A-ll intersections are expected Lo operate acceptably
under year 2040 conditions. Tnffi.c opera[ions at the MN Highway 13 and Main Avenue
intetsections are expected to operate similar to A,lternative A-1 and the Arcadia Avenue and
Duluth Avenue intersecrions are expected to operate similar to Alternatir,,e A-2.
7) Operational - Pedestrian Safew: Provides (4) north/south crossinss of Cll 21. From a
pedestrian safety perspective, signals have higher driver yield rates to pedestrians than
roundabouts. However, there are opportunities to enhance pedestrian crossings to improve driver
yield rates.
B) Compatibility - Land Use/Downtown Growth: Full access is provided at Arcadia Avenue
provides a direct route north/south route to access land uses on both sides of downtown
(consistent with the Alternatives A-1/ A-2 evaluation).
9) Compatibility - Planned Transportation Improvements: The hybrid option supports previous
planning efforts to extend Arcadia Avenue to the south. (consistent with the Alternatives A-1/
A-2 er,,aluation).
10) Comnatibiliw - Sffeetscaoe Onnortunities: The hvbrid oodon orovides a sood streetscanino
opportunity (i.e. less opportunity than Alternattve A-2, but more opportunity than A-1).
11) Compatibility - Ptoperty Impacts: The property irnpacts have not been fi.rllv vetted, but the
number of rmpacted parcels would likely be between Alternatives A-1 and A-2 and the number of
firll acquisition parcels is expected to be two.
Summa;y of Findings
A summary of the local transportalion assessment evaluation is summarized on the next page. This
table summaizes the key findings from the physical, operational, and compatibility review. Based on
a review of the driveway impacts and expected traffic operations, the PMT elirninated Alternative
B-2 from further consideration. Therefore, the evaluation maffix includes a summary of key
differentiators for Alternatives A-1, A-2, andB-2.
It is important to note that when considering the alternati'u'es and the potential impacts to both the
regional and local system, the transportation industry is undergoing rapid change. Therefore, while it
is good practice to evaluate future traffrc operations under a long-term scenario (i.e. year 2040 traffic
forecasts), how/when implementation of connected and autonomous vehicles are Jikeiy to impact
traf{tc operations and safety.
30
Ewluation Criteria Key Local Transportation System Take Away
Compatibility - Propeny
lm pacts
Alternative B-1 has the highest number of impacted parcels (19 and 23 impacted parcels, respectively), but requires only one
full-acquisition. Alternatives A-1 and A-2 have few impacted parcels (10 and 14, respectively), but requires two full-acquisition
parcels.
A-1Arffidia
Signal
A-2 Armdia
Roundabout Signal
&1 Main
Physical - Travel Pattern
Changes
Physical - Driveway
lmpacts
Physical - Roadway
Section and Parking
lmpacts
Consideration
Project Goals
Mobility
Local
Character
[.4obility
Local
Character
Local
Operational - Corridor
Travel Times
Character
N.{obility
Local
lvlobi Iity
Local
N/obility
Local
Feasibility
Safety
Local
Non-Motorized)
Safety
Local
Operational - Lmal
Roadway Traffic Volumes
Operational - Year 2040
Delays and Queues
Operational - Vehicular
Safety
Operational - Pedestrian
Safety
Compatibility - Land Use
and Downtown GroMh
Conrpatibility - Planned
Transportation
lmprovements
Compatibility
Oppoftunities
Local
Feasibility
Local
Character
Local
Falt Fai(
Feasibility
Cost
Local
Good
l/otorists and pedestrians traveling to downtown from any direction will have a minimum of two options to access downtown,
Although each alternative provides less acces than currently exists, majntaining two options to access downtown from each
direction is considered reasonable from a transportation system perspective.
Removedfrcm Filrther
Consideration
Good
Alternative B-1 would negatively impact access, mobility, and circulation within the downtown.
Alternative B-1 would likely jmpact on-street angled parking along Main Avenue south of CH 21. On-street spaces near the CH
2VMain Avenue intersection may need to be removed, Due to the increase in traffic volumes along Colorado Street between
Duluth Avenue and Main Avenue under Alternatives A-1 and A-2, on-street parking may need to be limited to one side of the
roadway along Colorado Street and Pleasnt Street.
Fair Fait Poor
Goo./
All alternatives are expected to improve corridor travel times. Alternative A-2 (roundabout) provides the shortest corriclor travel
time, The roundabout alternative (A-1) has less intersection delay and generally slower corridor speeds between intersections
whereas the signal alternatives (A-1 and B-1) have higher intersection delay and higher speeds between intersections.
Fa ir Fa ir
From a capacity perspective, the local roadway system can accommodate the change in year 2040 traffic volumes that are
expected based on each alternative. Each of the alternatives will improve CH 21 corridor operations and would result in less
motorists diverting through the downtown than currently occurs.
For all alternatives, there is the option to construct the project in phases. By phasing the improvements/construction, this would
allow time to observe/analyze how Phasc 1 improvements impact area traffic volumes/travel patterns and allow stakeholders
time to make a more informed decision regarding the remaining infrastructure needs.
Fai Fai(Fa ir
All alternatives provide overall acceptable levels of seruice at the study intersections. However, northbound/southbound queues
at the CH 2VNlain Avenue intersection under Alternative B-1 will significantly inhibit downlown access, mobility, circulation, and
parking.
lvlulti-lane roundabouts (Alternative A-2) statistically have a higher frequency of crashes, but fewer high sverity (fatayinjury
related type crashes) compared to signalized intersections (Alternatives A-1il&1). lf the weighted crash costs are the same
between the alternatives, the le$ severe type crash alternatives should be favored.
Fair Fat Fair Fair
All alternatives provide at least three (3) north/south crossings of CH 21. Alternative A-2 is the only option that provides four (4)
north/south pedestrian crossings. From a pedestrian safety perspective, signals have higher driver yield rates to pedestrians
thanroundabouts. However,thereareopportunitlestoenhancepedestriancrossingstolmprovedriveryieldrates.
t air
Good
lmproved acces (i.e. full-acces with a signal or roundabout) at either Arcadia Avenue or Duluth Avenue will help facilitate
downtown groMh. The downtown area is expected to continue to grow west, towards Duluth Avenue, panicularly south of CH 21.
A fulkccess at Arcadia Avenue would provide direct north/south vehicular connectivily in downtown, which is particularly
important under Alternatives A-1 and A-2, which reslrict access at Main Avenue,
Fai
While Alternatives A-1 and A-2 support the previous planning efforts, the benefit of the Arcadia Avenue extension to the l\,4N
Highway 13/Duluth Avenue intersection is expected to be minimal. The Arcadia Avenue extension to Pleasant Street would help
balance vehicular activity between Colorado Street and Pleasant Street, and provide motorists with additional options to
access/circulate downtown. The need for the Arcadia Avenue extension should be driven by market forces as future downtown
redevelopment occurs within this area and does not need to be directly associated with the CH 2VNIN Highway 13
reconstructioo project.
Fair
Alternative A-2 provides the best opportunity to incorporate streetscaping elements. Alternative A-1 provides a good
streetscapjng opportunity, while Alternative B-1 provides the lease amount of opponunities.Fair Good
3-l
(((
&2 Maln
Roundabout
Paot
Good Good
G0od Good
Good
Good Good
G0od Good G0od
cood Good
Good Good Fair
Good Good
Frank Boyles
From:
Sent:
To:
Cc:
Subject:
Shelton, Gary <GShelton@co.scott.mn.us>
Monday, October L6,20t7 1"1:32 AM
Frank Boyles
Jason Wedel; Winiecki, Tony; Freese, Lisa
RE: Cr2Ul-H13 corridor study
Fra n k,
As I understand the coming decision making steps:
2. The County Board will have a workshop on the project and get an update that will include related SRF
information, feedback from your Council workshop, and feedback from public input next Tuesday 1O/2a. MV
assumption is the board will provide some feedback for the PMT to take into consideration at that workshop.
3. The PMT will aggregate all of the input and feedback along with any relating data and make a determination as
to what alternative they will recommend. I don't know the timing of that decision.
4. Once the PMT has made its decision the City Cou ncil shou ld be asked to provide m unicipa I consent fo r the
project (assuming it meets the criteria to require municipal consent and I think it probably will) and the County
Board would be asked to approve a contract for the final design work to take place. Again, I don't know the
timing of these two decision points. lf, for some reason, the City Council were to vote to not provide municipal
consent then the PMT would have to consider do they modify the design to eliminate the need for consent, do
they bring a different option or design to garner municipal consent; or, do they recommend the Board either
drop the project; or, move to override the consent - something we all hope is avoided.
5. After final design is completed the project would then move forward for a construction contract to be approved
by the board.
This is the process - as I understand it - I have copied Tony and Lisa should either of them wish to weigh in
Gary
From: Frank Boyles [mailto:FBoyles@CityofPRIORLAKE.com]
Sent: Friday, October 73,2077 5:57 PM
To: Shelton, Gary
Cc: Jason Wedel
Subject: Cr21.lTH73 corridor study
I have been asked by my council to provide them with each of the forthcoming steps in this decision making
process. It seems to me that we need to be in sync with one another as we proceed. Have you identified a
process and timeline that you can share with me?
1
1. Your City Council and the Project Management Team will hear and review the information from SRF related to
impacts on city streets and the overall system. As I understand it your Council willget that information tonight -
I think the PMT may already have it - and I assume that the Council will provide some feedback for the PMT to
take into consideration at that workshop.
Apparently the PMT even has some question about this. At Monday's work session I believe that my council
will try to delete one of the four options before that meeting is done.
Thanks
Sent from my iPhone
2