Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Transportation topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Goodhue County agrees to cost-share pedestrian beacon in Pine Island, urges policy for future requests
Summary
The board voted to participate in cost-sharing for a rectangular rapid flashing beacon (RRFB) at Pine Island’s Main Street and Second Street SW; the project quote is $27,250 with the county’s share cited around $10,625, and commissioners asked staff to develop a consistent participation policy.
Goodhue County commissioners voted on Sept. 17 to participate financially in installing a rectangular rapid flashing beacon (RRFB) at the intersection of Main Street and Second Street SW in Pine Island to improve pedestrian safety.
Public works staff presented a project quotation of $27,250 for the RRFB system and told commissioners that the City of Pine Island had been offered up to $6,000 from a LiveWell Goodhue County grant program that could apply. Staff estimated the county’s share would be roughly $10,625 if the board agreed to a 50% cost-share. Commissioners debated funding sources and precedent, with several saying the county should develop a policy to govern future cost-share requests from cities and townships.
Supporters said the location generates significant pedestrian traffic and that similar installations had previously been cost-shared; opponents urged caution about setting a precedent without an established county participation policy. The board approved participation on a motion and directed staff to develop a cost-participation policy that would clarify criteria, maintenance responsibilities and funding sources for future requests. If the county contributes funds, staff said maintenance responsibilities would be placed on the municipality under an agreement similar to prior cost-share arrangements.
The board also discussed alternatives such as pursuing Safe Routes to School planning and other grant sources, and commissioners noted that applying for established grant programs can sometimes cover most of the project cost. The motion to approve county participation carried.
