04-12-2022 Resolution No. 11961Resolution No. 11961 1
RESOLUTION NO. 11961
RESOLUTION OF SUPPORT FOR 73RD ST TRAIL AND BRIDGE REGIONAL
SOLICITATION APPLICATION
WHEREAS, the Metropolitan Council’s regional solicitation is a competitive federal
funding allocation process available to local governments in the Twin Cities region; and
WHEREAS, the regional solicitation’s Multiuse Trails and Bicycle Facilities
category’s purpose is to fund projects that increase the availability and attractiveness of
bicycling, walking, or rolling by improving safety, reducing or eliminating user barriers, and
improving the Regional Bicycle Transportation Network.
WHEREAS, the existing pedestrian bridge on 73rd St over I-35W does not have
ramps and is not ADA accessible; and
WHEREAS, there is a pedestrian and bicycle gap on 73rd St from I-35W to Lyndale
Ave; and,
WHEREAS, Richfield Middle School and Richfield High school are both within a half
mile of the project corridor; and,
WHEREAS, the bridge’s lack of accessibility was identified in the 2009 Safe Routes
to School Comprehensive Plan in collaboration with Richfield Public Schools; and
WHEREAS, the gap on 73rd St was identified in the 2012 Bicycle Master Plan and
the 2018 Pedestrian Master Plan; and
WHEREAS, 10% and 12% of students from the Middle and High Schools
respectively are within the walk zone of their school but are separated by I-35W; and
WHEREAS, an average of 13% and 14% of students from the Middle and High
Schools respectively walk or bike to school; and
WHEREAS, closing the 73rd St pedestrian and bicycle gap and improving the
bridge’s accessibility will increase the safety and improve the experience of students
traveling to and from schools and community members traveling in their neighborhood;
and
WHEREAS, a 20% local government match funding is required if the project is
selected; and
WHEREAS, if the above project is selected, construction is tentatively scheduled for
2026; and
WHEREAS, the City of Richfield invests in infrastructure to best serve today’s and
tomorrow’s residents, businesses, and visitors; and
Resolution No. 11961 2
WHEREAS, the City of Richfield ensures that City services are accessible to people
of all races, ethnicities, incomes, and abilities.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED , that the City Council of the City of
Richfield supports Public Works’ 2022 regional solicitation application for 73rd St trail and
bridge.
Adopted by the City Council of the City of Richfield, Minnesota this 12th day of April, 2022.
Maria Regan Gonzalez, Mayor
ATTEST:
Kari Sinning, City Clerk