City Council Meeting Date: January 4, 2022
To: Mayor and City Council
City Administrator
From: David E. Bennett - Public Works Director/City Engineer
Sean M. Simonson - Engineering Manager
Subject:
TITLE
Consider Resolution Approving Application to the Minnesota Department of Transportation for Funding of the 2021 Safe Routes to School Solicitation.
BODY
Action Requested:
The Northfield City Council approves the attached Resolution Approving Application to the Minnesota Department of Transportation for Funding of the 2021 Safe Routes to School Solicitation.
Summary Report:
This past October, MnDOT announced it would be soliciting applications for grants to fund infrastructure improvements considered eligible under the Safe Routes to Schools Program. The City of Northfield previously has received a MnDOT grant to fund a Safe Routes to Schools Study, which was completed in 2009. This study has provided the basis for several other measures previously implemented, and is the basis of staff’s recommendation to install sidewalk along the east side of Maple Street by Spring Creek Elementary. In addition, Staff is looking to use Safe Routes to School Funding for a trail connection along the east side of TH 246 from the Roundabout to the High School Entrance (Attachment 2).
The estimated construction cost of the proposed improvements is shown below:
In the application, (Attachment 3) staff is requesting $372,000 in grant funding, which equates to a 50/50 split at the time of application submittal. The application also requires certification from the governing body of the Northfield Public Schools, which Staff is in the process of acquiring. The application attached is in a draft condition, and will be finalize once the remaining information from the School District in completed.
Alternative Options:
Council could elect not to submit for this project grant.
Financial Impacts:
Staff recommends the City share of $372,000 come from the Capital Reserve Fund should the grant application be successful.
Tentative Timelines:
Council Action for Grant January 4, 2022
SRTS Grant Application Due January 14, 2022
SRTS Award Notice March 2022