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1. What is a corridor study, and what kinds of things does it look at?

A corridor study identifies and evaluates potential roadway concept alternatives (i.e., number of travel lanes, access locations, turns lanes, median treatments, etc.) for future roadway improvements. The study works to develop alternatives that satisfy the purpose and need statement and avoids or minimize impacts to the surrounding environment. Each alternative, is evaluated based on its benefits and impacts on transportation, economic, social and environmental resources.

After considering initial public and agency input, the study team will identify a set of future roadway concepts that address key issues identified. Corridor improvement options are expected to address such issues as: roadway capacity, intersection geometrics, access management, safety enhancements, potential traffic signal locations, possible local connectivity opportunities, trail system continuity, and corridor aesthetics, etc.

A preferred roadway concept will be identified and a final report outlining recommendations will be prepared. These recommendations will help the City of Lino Lakes guide development in a way that supports the preferred alternative. By implementing land use and access policies that protect CSAH 34’s preferred concept, the City of Lino Lakes will work toward minimizing future impacts as the improvements are implemented.

2. What are the study limits?

The primary study area for the study includes all of CSAH 34, extending west from CSAH 49 (Hodgson Road) to CSAH 54 (20th Street) on the east. A secondary study area includes investigating a possible extension of CSAH 34 over I-35E to connect to County Road 84 (Otter Lake Road), a north and south collector. View the corridor map.

3. Why is a study needed?

Like many areas around the Twin Cities metropolitan region, Anoka County and the surrounding areas have experienced rapid growth. Anoka County has seen its population grow by more than 80,000, from 243,641 persons in 1990 to approximately 327,000 in 2006. Increased population has resulted in higher traffic volumes throughout the area. This increased traffic has been especially noticeable in the City of Lino Lakes on CSAH 34, also known as Birch Street, raising concerns about perceived congestion, safety and traffic signal needs. The CSAH 34 Corridor Study is the initial step in addressing these concerns.

4. What is the project timeline?

The final report document is anticipated to be completed in April 2010. A detailed project schedule is included in the Study Activities and Schedule section.

5. What is a Technical Advisory Committee (TAC)?

The TAC group will work to help guide and direct the study processes and provide advice on technical analysis, presentation materials, study findings, and recommendations. In addition, the committee will provide a network to keep local leaders and elected officials informed. Members of the TAC include:

• Jack Corkle, Sr. Multimodal Transportation Planner, Anoka County Highway
• Curt Kobilarcsik, Engineering Program Manager, Anoka County Highway
• Andrew Witter, Asst. Co. Engineer, Anoka County Highway Department
• Karen Blaska, Park Planner, Anoka County Parks
• Mike Grochala, Community Development Director, City of Lino Lakes
• Jeff Smyser, City Planner, City of Lino Lakes
• Jim Studenski, City Engineer, City of Lino Lakes
• Mark Lindeberg, North Area Engineer, Mn/DOT Transportation Department
• Rhonda Sivarajah, Anoka County Commissioner

6. How can interested neighborhood representatives and the general public get involved with the study process?

There are several ways to get involved including requesting representation on the Neighborhood Advisory Committee, attend public meetings and open houses, visiting the website, checking for newsletters.

7. Who is SRF Consulting Group, Inc.?

Anoka County and the City of Lino Lakes are working with SRF Consulting Group to complete the CSAH 34 Corridor Study. SRF is a transportation planning and engineering consultant based in Plymouth, Minnesota.