HomeMy WebLinkAbout07-07-2025 City Council Work Session Packet
CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION
Mayor
Amáda Márquez Simula
Councilmembers
Connie Buesgens
Rachel James
Justice Spriggs
Laurel Deneen
City Manager
Aaron Chirpich
City Hall—Shared Vision Room, 3989 Central Ave NE
Monday, July 07, 2025
6:00 PM
AGENDA
ATTENDANCE INFORMATION FOR THE PUBLIC
Members of the public who wish to attend may do so in-person, or by using Microsoft Teams Meeting
at columbiaheightsmn.gov/joinameeting ID 271 361 336 205, Passcode sd66JM7R. For questions,
please contact Administration at 763-706-3610.
Auxiliary aids or other accommodations for individuals with disabilities are available upon request when
the request is made at least 72 hours in advance. Please contact Administration at 763 -706-3610 to
make arrangements.
CALL TO ORDER/ROLL CALL
Columbia Heights City Council and Staff Norms.
While we are accountable to each other for these norms, the Mayor and City Manager will
help us adhere to them with respectful reminders and reinforcement as needed.
WORK SESSION ITEMS
1. Group Ice Breaker.
2. Safe Streets for All Citywide Action Plan: Draft Final Plan. (60 Minutes)
3. Amending Alcohol Ordinance Restrictions in Silver Lake Beach Park. (10 Minutes)
4. Review 2025-2026 Strategic Plan. (15 Minutes)
5. Discuss Options for 2026 Legal Services Contract. (15 Minutes)
6. Info Regarding Sister City Committee and City Partnership. (5 Minutes)
7. Council Corner.
Monthly Calendar Sharing
Monthly Event Notification, Attendance and Past Event Updates
Monthly Proclamations and Meeting Guests
Discussion Items Suggested by Mayor and Council:
2026 Conference Attendance for Council.
Political Party Participation at Art and Info Fair.
COPAL Resolution.
Municipal Cannabis.
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City of Columbia Heights AGENDA July 07, 2025
City Council Work Session Page 2
ADJOURNMENT
Auxiliary aids or other accommodations for individuals with disabilities are available upon request when the request is
made at least 72 hours in advance. Please contact Administration at 763-706-3610 to make arrangements.
2
Columbia Heights City Council and Staff Norms
While we are accountable to each other for these norms, the Mayor and City Manager will help
us adhere to them with respectful reminders and reinforcement as needed.
Behavioral Norms
1. We will assume others best intentions.
2. We will exercise humility.
3. We will praise publicly and criticize privately.
4. We will focus on the policy and not personalities.
5. We will do our best to de-escalate contentious interactions.
6. We will provide reasonable notice to the Mayor and City Manager of any changes or additions
we wish to make at a Council meeting so that the Mayor is prepared to manage the meeting.
7. We will show respect for one another by:
a. Paying attention to others when they are speaking.
b. Not interrupting others.
c. Listening to understand others, not simply to respond to them.
d. Honoring each other in public and protecting one another in their absence.
e. Not bullying others.
Operational Norms
1. Council members and staff will respect the Mayor’s role to chair our meetings by:
a. Waiting to be called on before speaking so that others can consider our contributions.
b. The Mayor and City Manager will bring closure to policy discussions, public comment, and
other similar “final word” situations.
2. Once a decision has been made by the Council, we will support the implementation of that
decision even if we did not support the decision itself.
3. If Council has a request of staff, they will direct their request to the City Manager and the
Division Director for coordination with staff unless the City Manager decides otherwise.
4. If Council has a question about a staff member, they will raise that with the City Manager
privately before raising it publicly.
5. When Council is considering a topic, it is incumbent upon Council members to ask sufficient
questions to ensure they are making informed decisions.
6. Council and staff will address each other by their titles when engaging each other in any official
capacity and will use first names in informal settings.
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Item 1.
ITEM: Safe Streets for All Citywide Safety Action Plan : Draft Final Plan.
DEPARTMENT: Public Works BY/DATE: City Engineer / July 1, 2025
CORE CITY STRATEGIES: (please indicate areas that apply by adding an “X” in front of the selected text below)
X Healthy and Safe Community
_Equitable, Diverse, Inclusive, and Friendly
_Trusted and Engaged Leadership
_Thriving and Vibrant Destination Community
_Strong Infrastructure and Public Services
_Sustainable
BACKGROUND:
The City’s Safe Streets for All (SS4A) Citywide Safety Action Plan project kicked off in June 2024 with the help
of the consultant hired, Bolton & Menk. The consultant has worked on multiple community and stakeholder
outreach efforts to gather feedback on areas of concern throughout the City. Collection and analysis of crash
data is a primary basis for the report that the consultant has also completed. The final open house was held
last week (June 24) for public review of the draft plan, and a copy of it has also been pushed through all of our
social media outreach and is available for review and comment on the City’s website.
Connor Cox from Bolton & Menk has been invited to review the draft of the final plan, review community
engagement, review the high injury network and gather feedback from the Council to complete the final
safety action plan.
SUMMARY OF CURRENT STATUS:
The draft of the final Safety Action Plan is attached for review. It is also available on the City’s website for
public review. The final plan will be presented to the Council at 2nd regular meeting in July or 1st meeting in
August. This will allow final documentation submittal to the FHWA within the grant completion date of
September 16, 2025.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Presentation and discussion/feedback of draft plan.
RECOMMENDED MOTION(S):
MOTION: None – discussion only.
Attachment: Draft Final Safety Action Plan
CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION MEETING
AGENDA SECTION WORK SESSION ITEM
MEETING DATE JULY 7, 2025
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Item 3.
Transportation Safety Action Plan - DRAFTJune 2025 5
Item 3.
Contents
Chapter 1 Introduction � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 3
Chapter 2 High Injury Network � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 9
Chapter 3 Speed Limit Evaluation � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 15
Chapter 4 Stop Sign Request Policy � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 19
Chapter 5 Engagement � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � �23
Chapter 6 Project Prioritization � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � �30
Chapter 7 Safety Countermeasures Toolbox � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � �36
Chapter 8 Demonstration Project Recommendations � � � � � � � � � � � � � � �63
Chapter 9 Conceptual Design Options � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � �69
Chapter 10 Policy and Progress � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � �96
Appendices � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 101
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Item 3.
Chapter 1
Introduction
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Item 3.
4 Columbia Heights, Minnesota
The study area includes the entire city limits of the City
of Columbia Heights (Figure 1)� Columbia Heights is a
first ring suburb of the Twin Cities metropolitan area� It
is located directly north of the City of Minneapolis and is
home to approximately 22,000 people, according to the
US Census Bureau� The City has three main roadways, all
north-south routes, University Avenue NE/MN 47, Central
Avenue NE/MN 65, and Stinson Boulevard NE/CR 63�
Interstate 694 is located just north of the city limits�
Study Area
FIGURE 1. STUDY AREA
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Item 3.
INTRODUCTION
5DRAFT Transportation Safety Action Plan
What is a Safe Streets for All
Action Plan?
A Safe Streets for All (SS4A) Action Plan provides federal
support for planning and infrastructure initiatives aimed
at preventing deaths and serious injuries of all roadway
users, including pedestrians, bicyclists, micro-mobility
users, commercial vehicle operators, transit riders, and
motorists�
The purpose of the Action Plan is to:
• Identify high crash locations�
• Engage the community to receive their input and
direction�
• Recommend design treatments at high crash
locations (both intersections and roadway segments)
aimed at reducing crashes�
Through the completion of this Safe Streets for All Action
Plan, the City of Columbia Heights will continue its
commitment to create a safe transportation system for its
residents, visitors, and businesses�
Introduction & Overview
How do we Achieve Zero
Deaths and Serious Injuries?
A Safe Systems Approach is a guiding model to address
safety on our roads� The Safe System Approach has been
developed and adopted by the United States Department
of Transportation as an effective way to address and
mitigate the safety risks posed by our transportation
systems�
The Safe System Approach includes five objectives that
are reinforced through six principles (Figure 2)� These
objectives and principles create a holistic approach
to make our transportation systems and public rights-
of-way safer for people� Compared to traditional road
safety practices, the Safe System Approach focuses on
the design and operation of our transportation systems
to anticipate human mistakes and lessen the impact of
crashes to save lives�
FIGURE 2. OBJECTIVES
AND PRINCIPLES
OF A SAFE SYSTEMS
APPROACH
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Item 3.
6 Columbia Heights, Minnesota
This plan is a forward step in Columbia Heights’ commitment to a safer community for all residents� Table 1 summarizes
plans that are related to transportation safety and mobility at the local, regional, and state level to ensure the
Transportation Safety Action Plan aligns its objectives and values with previous planning efforts� Appendix A contains a
full review of previous plans�
Alignment with Other Plans and Policies
Safe Systems
Approach
Ped/Bike
Design
Guidelines
Ped/Bike Network
Recommendations
Universal Design /
ADA Accessibility
Considerations
Land Use
Considerations
Columbia
Heights 2040
Comprehensive
Plan
ADA Transition Plan
Pedestrian &
Bicycle Mobility
Plan (2008)
Retroflectivity Sign
Maintenance Plan
Anoka County 2030
Transportation Plan
Metropolitan
Council Regional
Pedestrian Safety
Action Plan
Minnesota Walks
Strategic Highway
Safety Plan
Pedestrian Safety
Analysis Final
Report
MnDOT Vulnerable
Road User Safety
Assessment
SMTP Minnesota
GO (2022)
TABLE 1. PREVIOUS PLAN REVIEW SUMMARY
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Item 3.
INTRODUCTION
7DRAFT Transportation Safety Action Plan
Columbia Heights Complete Streets Policy
The City adopted their Complete Streets Policy in early
2025.
“This policy defines a process to ensure future street
and transportation projects consider the equity
of all users by incorporating features as necessary
and feasible to implement Complete Streets. The
City views each street and transportation project
as unique and design features will likely differ
from street to street, yet each street may still be
considered ‘complete’.”
Main points from the policy document include:
• For major street reconstruction or new construction
projects, Complete Streets elements will be
incorporated unless an exception is granted�
• For minor maintenance projects such as repaving
or restriping, staff shall document opportunities for
future Complete Streets elements but shall not be
required to implement them unless cost-effective�
• Where a project aligns with existing citywide or
regional plans, city staff shall prioritize the use of
existing design frameworks to reduce redundancy�
• Private development projects shall incorporate
Complete Streets elements as identified by citywide
plans such as Imagine 2050, the City’s 2050
Comprehensive Plan, City Code requirements, and
design guidelines�
Section 7� Create a Network states,
“To ensure safe and convenient access to key
destinations, the City will focus on developing a well-
connected street network that supports multiple modes
of transportation, including walking, biking, public transit,
and driving� The goal is to provide a seamless and safe
experience for users across the network, even if not all
streets accommodate every mode�
Rather than requiring every street to provide separate
facilities for all modes, the City will prioritize connecting
key corridors and destinations where multimodal trips
are most likely� Gaps in connectivity, particularly where
vulnerable users are impacted, will be addressed through
strategic planning and project prioritization�
The City will continue to require developers to implement
Complete Streets elements in new developments
as outlined in this policy� Additionally, City staff will
collaborate with the State of Minnesota, neighboring
communities, and regional partners to extend the
connected network beyond city boundaries when
feasible� Coordination efforts will focus on shared
priorities, such as safe pedestrian crossings and
multimodal access�"
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Item 3.
8 Columbia Heights, Minnesota
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Item 3.
9DRAFT Transportation Safety Action Plan
Chapter 2
High Injury Network
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Item 3.
10 Columbia Heights, Minnesota
High Injury Network
A High Injury Network (HIN) is a subset of a roadway
network with a disproportionately high number of fatal
and serious injury crashes compared to total crashes in a
community�
Identifying an HIN can help Columbia Heights accomplish
the following:
• Prioritize improvements on roads with high-risk crash
patterns�
• Analyze roadway design features on the HIN to
proactively reconfigure similar roads before crashes
occur�
There is no federally prescribed methodology to identify
an HIN, however some common guidance includes:
• For communities with a smaller geographic footprint
(like Columbia Heights), the HIN should be based on
10 years of crash data�
• The HIN should not include more than 50% of
roadway centerline mileage� 5% to 20% of centerline
mileage is a common target, but not a strict rule�
• The HIN should capture at least 40% of fatal and
serious injury crashes�
HIN Identification
The Columbia Heights HIN was developed using
citywide crash data from 2014 to 2023, sourced from the
Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT)�
Using this data, spatial analysis was conducted with GIS
software to visualize crash locations and identify roadways
with the highest concentration of high-risk crashes� For
this analysis, a high-risk crash is defined as:
• A crash resulting in fatality�
• A crash resulting in a serious injury�
• A crash involving a bicyclist(s) or pedestrian(s),
regardless of crash severity�
• A crash resulting in minor injury�
• Minor injuries were considered to a lesser
degree compared to the three other crash types
listed above, however they were incorporated
due to a generally low representation of fatal,
serious injury, or pedestrian/bicycle crashes
throughout Columbia Heights�
Roadway segments were aggregated together to form the
HIN if the high-risk crashes described above generally
occurred within a half-mile of one another, however some
engineering judgement was also applied�
The HIN is shown in Figure 3 and covers:
• 100% of fatal crashes�
• 88% of serious injury crashes�
• 88% of bicycle crashes�
• 86% of pedestrian crashes�
• 88% of minor injury crashes�
• 25% of centerline mileage�
• If MnDOT jurisdiction corridors are excluded,
due to ongoing, planned projects on TH 47/
University Avenue and TH 65/Central Avenue,
the HIN makes up approximately 21% of the
remaining roadway system�
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Item 3.
HIGH INJURY NETWORK
11DRAFT Transportation Safety Action Plan
FIGURE 3. HIGH INJURY NETWORK
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Item 3.
12 Columbia Heights, Minnesota
Characteristics of HIN
Roadways
General roadway characteristics on the HIN were
reviewed to identify design features linked to higher
rates of high-risk crashes (see Appendix B for
detailed graphics)� The following roadway types are
disproportionately represented on the HIN:
• Daily traffic volumes over 3,000 vehicles per day�
• Speed limits of 35 mph or higher�
• Presence of two-way left turn lanes�
• This is most likely due to dense access spacing,
which typically requires two-way left-turn lanes,
rather than an issue with the lanes themselves�
• Lack of on-street parking�
• On-street parking can help calm traffic, but
sight lines near intersections should be carefully
reviewed�
• Presence of a roadway median�
• This characteristic is largely due to University
Avenue and Central Avenue being a part of the
HIN�
• Two or more travel lanes in each direction�
• This characteristic is largely due to University
Avenue and Central Avenue being a part of the
HIN�
When planning roadway maintenance or reconstruction,
the City should prioritize roads with these design features
to assess safety needs� Some High Injury Network
corridors, like 37th Avenue NE and 53rd Avenue NE, have
recently been improved� While crashes are expected
to decline due to these upgrades, ongoing monitoring is
recommended to evaluate their safety impact�
Corridors with Elevated
Numbers of High-Risk Crashes
A scoring system was developed to identify roadways with
the most severe safety issues, using the following criteria:
• 2 points per fatal crash�
• 1 point per serious injury crash�
• 1 point per bicycle crash (2 points if crash resulted in
a fatality)�
• 1 point per pedestrian crash (2 points if crash
resulted in a fatality)�
• 0�25 points per minor injury crash�
Once this scoring was applied, the score was divided by
the length of the segment to normalize the score based
on segment length�
Crash scores per mile are shown in Figure 4� Roadways
with the highest crash scores (i�e� highest accumulation of
high-risk crashes) and their jurisdiction are listed below�
MnDOT Roadways
Central Avenue / TH 65
• Improvements are planned for 2028 as part of
the METRO F Line project� These improvements
include bus rapid transit infrastructure and safety
and accessibility improvements for people walking,
rolling, biking, riding transit, and driving�
Anoka County Roadways
40th Avenue NE / CSAH 2
• Improvements identified in the 2024 CSAH 2 / 40th
Avenue Corridor Study are planned for short-term
implementation� These improvements include two
through lanes, parking lanes (on both sides of the
roadway), sidewalks/trail implementation, and raised
crossings on side street intersections�
49th Avenue NE / CSAH 4
City of Columbia Heights Roadways
37th Avenue NE
Improvements were recently implemented (2023/2024),
therefore the number of crashes at this location are
expected to decrease� This corridor should be monitored
to understand the safety benefits of the recent project�
44th Avenue NE
45th Avenue NE
50th Avenue NE
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Item 3.
HIGH INJURY NETWORK
13DRAFT Transportation Safety Action Plan
FIGURE 4. HIGH INJURY NETWORK CRASH SCORE
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Item 3.
14 Columbia Heights, Minnesota
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Item 3.
15DRAFT Transportation Safety Action Plan
Chapter 3
Speed Limit Evaluation
19
Item 3.
16 Columbia Heights, Minnesota
2019 Legislative Action
In May 2019, the Minnesota legislature passed two
provisions that allow cities increased authority to set their
own speed limits on local roads� These went into effect
August 1, 2019�
Minnesota State Statute, Section 169.14, Subd. 5h.
Speed limits on city streets.
“A city may establish speed limits for city streets under
the city’s jurisdiction other than the limits provided in
subdivision 2 without conducting an engineering and
traffic investigation� This subdivision does not apply to
town roads, county highways, or trunk highways in the
city� A city that establishes speed limits pursuant to
this section must implement speed limit changes in a
consistent and understandable manner� The city must
erect appropriate signs to display the speed limit� A
city that uses the authority under this subdivision must
Evaluating the Effectiveness of Reduced Citywide
Speed Limits
develop procedures to set speed limits based on the city’s
safety, engineering, and traffic analysis� At a minimum,
the safety, engineering, and traffic analysis must consider
national urban speed limit guidance and studies, local
traffic crashes, and methods to effectively communicate
the change to the public�”
The legislature also passed section 169.011, Subd 64,
which expands the definition of a residential roadway
as:
“…a city street or town road that is either (1) less than one-
half mile in total length, or (2) in an area zoned exclusively
for housing that is not a collector or arterial street�”
Together, these changes provide cities with the ability to
set speed limits on local streets, provided that a safety,
engineering, and traffic analysis has been completed and
a policy has been set that establishes speed limits in a
consistent and understandable manner�
Credit: Jeff Wheeler, The Minnesota Star Tribune
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Item 3.
SPEED LIMIT EVALUATION
17DRAFT Transportation Safety Action Plan
Local Jurisdictions Reviewed
The following are a list of peer communities that either
changed their speed limits following the 2019 legislative
action or chose to maintain their speed limits after review�
• City of Edina (Lowered Speeds)
• City of Minneapolis (Lowered Speeds)
• City of Saint Paul (Lowered Speeds)
• City of St� Louis Park (Lowered Speeds)
• City of Richfield (Lowered Speeds)
• City of Bloomington (Lowered Speeds)
• City of St� Anthony Village (Lowered Speeds)
• City of Falcon Heights (Lowered Speeds)
• City of New Brighton (Lowered Speeds)
• City of Shoreview (Maintained Speeds)
Summary and Key Takeaways
Based on a review of peer communities and national
guidance and safety research the following key takeaways
was found�
Studies show Insignificant Impacts from Reduced
Speed Limits
Studies have shown that reducing speed limits alone
does not necessarily lead to significant improvements
in traffic safety� While lower speed limits may seem
like a logical approach to reducing speeds and motor
vehicle accidents, research suggests that driver behavior
is influenced more by factors such as road design,
enforcement, and traffic flow than by posted speed limits�
In fact, studies have found that when speed limits are
lowered without corresponding changes to road design
or enforcement, drivers often ignore the new limits or
drive at speeds they consider safe based on the design
and context of the road� Additionally, changes in speed
between and within municipalities on similar roadway
types can cause confusion or frustration among drivers,
potentially leading to unsafe driving behavior� Therefore,
experts recommend a more comprehensive approach,
addressing road design, visibility, and enforcement, rather
than relying solely on reduced speed limits to improve
safety�
Street Design Changes are More Effective
While there are limited studies proving the effectiveness
of speed limit changes reducing speeds, there is an
abundance of literature supporting physical roadway
changes as a way to slow traffic and make roadways safer
for motor vehicles, pedestrians, and bicyclists� FHWA,
NACTO, ITE, and other organizations have published
studies and best practices to show the benefits of
“traffic calming”� Additionally, FHWA has put together a
collection of 28 countermeasures and strategies effective
in reducing roadway fatalities and serious injuries� While
the collection includes ‘Appropriate Speed Limits for All
Road Users’, it also includes ‘Road Diets’, ‘Roundabouts’,
‘Dedicated Left- and Right-Turn Lanes at Intersections’,
and ‘Walkways’� It is recommended these strategies are
used together to have the most effect in making roadways
safer for all users�
Many Local Community Case Studies, Limited Data
Eleven local Twin Cities municipalities were reviewed,
including Edina, Minneapolis, Saint Paul, St� Louis Park,
Richfield, Bloomington, Saint Anthony Village, Falcon
Heights, Shoreview, New Brighton, and Fridley� Out of
these eleven, only a couple communities have collected
and analyzed the results of speed limit changes�
Communities that do have before-and-after speed data
have generally found that average motor vehicle speeds
are not reduced significantly, usually only 1-3 miles
per hour� This suggests that additional strategies are
needed to reduce vehicle speeds, which could include
infrastructure changes, public education/communication,
or speed enforcement�
The full evaluation of reducing citywide speed limits can
be found in Appendix C�
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Item 3.
18 Columbia Heights, Minnesota
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Item 3.
Chapter 4
Stop Sign Request Policy
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Item 3.
20 Columbia Heights, Minnesota
The City of Columbia Heights is committed to maintaining
a safe and efficient transportation network for all road
users� This Stop Sign Request Policy provides a procedure
to intake resident and neighborhood requests, complete
an engineering review, provide a decision, and implement
placement of stop signs in a consistent and transparent
manner�
Purpose of Stop Signs
Stop signs are essential regulatory traffic control devices
used to manage right-of-way and access at intersections�
They are not designed for speed control but rather
to improve safety by defining priority for motorists,
pedestrians, and cyclists� Proper stop sign installations
follow national and state standards, which establish
specific warrants to ensure their effectiveness�
Applicability of Policy
This policy applies to all public intersections under the
City’s authority, including residential, commercial, and
mixed-use areas� Stop signs will not be installed arbitrarily�
Instead, the city will base its decision on an engineering
review and criteria contained within the Minnesota
Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MN MUTCD)�
Types of Stop Control
The city recognizes two primary types of sign
configurations:
• Minor Road Stop Control: Typically used where a
minor street intersects a major street� The stop signs
are placed on the minor street to assign right-of-way
to the major street�
• All-Way Stop Control: Typically used when traffic
volumes are nearly equal on all approaches, or when
crash history or pedestrian activity justifies it� All-way
stops are also considered at complex intersections
or where visibility is limited in multiple directions�
Evaluation Criteria for Stop
Sign Installation
The Minnesota Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices
(MN MUTCD) indicates the following factors should be
considered when establishing intersection control:
• Vehicular, bicycle, and pedestrian traffic volumes on
all approaches
• Number and angle of approaches
• Approach speeds
• Sight distance available on each approach, and
• Reported crash history
Additional considerations include:
• Roadway function and importance
• Unsignalized intersections within a signalized area
• The need to control left-turn conflicts
• The need to control vehicle/pedestrian conflicts at
locations that generate high pedestrian volumes
• Improvement of operational characteristics of the
intersection
Stop Sign Request Policy
24
Item 3.
21DRAFT Transportation Safety Action Plan
STOP SIGN REQUEST POLICY
Request and Review Process
The following steps are required under this policy:
• STEP 1: Completion of a Stop Sign Request Form
and submittal to the Public Works or Engineering
Department�
• STEP 2: The city will conduct an engineering review
using criteria contained within the Minnesota Manual
of Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MN MUTCD)�
• STEP 3: Based on the engineering review, the
city will determine whether stop sign installation
is warranted� The city will then use engineering
judgment to determine whether to advance a
recommendation to install a stop sign�
• STEP 4: If recommended, the findings will be
presented to the City Council and/or Traffic Safety
Committee for review and approval�
• STEP 5: If approved by the Council and/or
Committee, the city will program the installation of
the stop sign(s) as well as the ongoing maintenance�
Note: A petition or neighborhood endorsement with a
minimum of 60% support from households within 300’ of
the requested sign location can be required by the city
ahead of STEP 2 or STEP 4�
Exceptions
Stop signs are not a substitute for speed control� They
will not be installed solely to reduce speeding or as a
response to isolated complaints� Unwarranted stop signs
can lead to driver non-compliance, increased rear-end
collisions, and unnecessary delays�
Maintenance
The Public Works Department is responsible for
maintaining all stop signs in good condition� This includes
ensuring visibility, reflectivity, and compliance with the
Minnesota Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices
(MN MUTCD)� Regular inspections and prompt repairs
are part of the city’s commitment to traffic safety�
Future Policy Considerations
Stop sign control is used to facilitate the free movement
of traffic along intersecting streets until it is safe to cross�
Stop signs may not be required at every cross street or
driveway intersection� However they should be used on
the minor street approach(es) if engineering judgment
and/or analysis indicates that one or more the following
conditions exist:
• Minor street entering a major through street
• Restricted view or crash records indicate a need for
control by a stop sign
In most cases, the street carrying the lowest volume of
traffic should be stopped� In cases where two intersecting
streets have similar volumes and characteristics,
additional considerations include:
• Controlling the direction that conflicts the most with
established pedestrian crossing activity or school
walking routes
• Controlling the direction that has obscured vision,
dips, or bumps that already require drivers to use
lower operating speeds
• Controlling the direction that has the best sight
distance to observe conflicting traffic
Generally, stop signs will be located on side-street
approaches to collector, arterial, and streets with the
highest volume of through traffic� Stop signs should be
placed in a manner and/or pattern that the driver will
expect to assign right-of-way to crossing traffic� In the
future, the City of Columbia Heights could consider
implementing stop signs every other block in each
direction and designate north-south routes that do not
have stop signs for free flow traffic movements�
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Item 3.
22 Columbia Heights, Minnesota
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Item 3.
Chapter 5
Engagement
27
Item 3.
24 Columbia Heights, Minnesota
Community and Stakeholder Engagement
Community and stakeholder engagement played a critical
role in shaping the Columbia Heights Transportation
Safety Action Plan� By combining data-driven safety
analysis with local insights, the project team gained
a clearer understanding of safety conditions and
challenges citywide� Through a range of in-person and
virtual strategies such as pop-up events, open houses,
stakeholder meetings, and online tools, residents and
other community members identified priority locations
and key concerns� This input directly informed the Project
Prioritization process, as detailed in Chapter 6�
Pop-Up Events
Three pop-up events were held at local community
gatherings to meet people where they were and collect
input in informal, accessible settings� At each event,
participants engaged in an activity to identify locations
with transportation safety concerns� Some of the
comment themes highlighted by community members at
pop up events included:
• Safety at intersections along Central Avenue, 49th
Avenue, and 40th Avenue�
• Biking and driving issues, especially at crossings�
• Infrastructure gaps such as missing sidewalks, poor
lighting, and lack of bike lanes�
• Traffic behavior issues like speeding and failure to
stop at signs�
• Accessibility challenges near parks and libraries�
• Lack of stop signs at some intersections creates
confusion and safety concerns�
Pop-Up #1 (June 20, 2024 – Community Art & Info Fair at
Huset Park)
This popular community event is attended by hundreds
of residents and takes place in Huset Park each year� The
project team attended the event to speak to community
members, gather feedback, and promote the project's
online interactive map�
Pop-Up #2 (July 30, 2024 – Eat and Greet at McKenna
Park)
This event raised awareness of the project and
encouraged participation in the interactive comment map
and upcoming open house� Approximately 20 people
participated in an activity to identify safety issues and
problem areas in the city�
Pop-Up #3 (October 26, 2024 - Truck or Treat, Huset
Park)
Staff attended the Halloween-themed community event,
Truck or Treat, and engaged with children and parents as
they collected candy� Participants ranked intersections
and street segments based on where they most wanted
to see safety improvements� Approximately 60 people
provided feedback at the event, including many youth�
This input informed project prioritization�
28
Item 3.
ENGAGEMENT
25DRAFT Transportation Safety Action Plan
Stakeholder Meetings
Targeted meetings were held with key decision-makers
and institutional partners to share updates and gather
input on the Transportation Safety Action Plan� These
sessions helped align the project with broader city and
school priorities�
City Council Work Session (September 3, 2024)
Project staff presented early findings from the crash
analysis and community engagement to the Columbia
Heights City Council� Council members provided
feedback on safety priorities and discussed how the plan
could support citywide goals�
School Board Meeting (September 24, 2024)
Staff met with the Columbia Heights School Board
to discuss school-related safety concerns and Safe
Routes to School opportunities� Board members shared
insights on student travel patterns and priority areas for
improvement�
Open House Events
Two open houses were held to share project updates and
gather feedback at key milestones�
Fall Open House (October 10, 2024 – Columbia Heights
City Hall)
Hosted at Columbia Heights City Hall, this open house
served as a key opportunity to share project updates
and gather community input� The event began with a
presentation from project team members, followed by
informal, one-on-one discussions with attendees� Project
boards were displayed throughout the room, presenting
information on project background, community feedback,
crash analysis, and updates on related transportation
efforts�
Attendees were invited to participate in an interactive
activity where they selected their top four project
locations from a curated list, helping to inform project
prioritization� A total of 18 attendees signed in, and
five comment cards were submitted in response to the
prompt, “How can we improve safety on our streets?”
Project staff were available throughout the event to
answer questions, explain materials, and engage in
meaningful conversations about transportation safety in
Columbia Heights�
Spring Open House (June 24, 2025 – Columbia Heights
City Hall)
• TBD
29
Item 3.
26 Columbia Heights, Minnesota
Interactive Comment Map
Community members used an interactive mapping
tool to highlight locations they felt were unsafe, adding
context to the High Injury Network analysis� Nearly 300
comments (shown in Figure 5) were submitted between
July and September 2024 and categorized as Walking,
Driving, Biking, Transit, or Rolling� Key themes included:
Walking
• Crosswalks are often missing or lack visibility�
• Major roads and connectors lack sidewalks�
• Sidewalk gaps and abrupt endings are common�
• Additional Safe Routes to School planning work is
recommended�
• Dangerous driving, minimal traffic calming, and lack
of buffers make walking unsafe�
Rolling
• Lack of sidewalks creates unsafe conditions for
mobility device users, with few safe alternatives�
Driving
• Rolling stops and speeding are widespread,
especially on residential streets�
• Many intersections lack control measures (stop signs
or traffic lights)�
• Wide streets often lack lane striping�
Transit
• Walkways and crossings near stops need
improvement�
Biking
• Desire for north-south biking routes and connections
to regional trails�
• Poor pavement in bike lanes�
• Desire for more protected lane infrastructure�
FIGURE 5.
COMMUNITY-
IDENTIFIED
SAFETY
CONCERNS BY
MODE
30
Item 3.
ENGAGEMENT
27DRAFT Transportation Safety Action Plan
Other Engagement Strategies
Project Website
A project website was launched at the start of the
planning process to serve as a central hub for information�
It provided an overview of the project’s goals, key
milestones, and timeline, and was regularly updated
with new content� The site also advertised upcoming
engagement opportunities such as pop-up events and
open houses, and hosted the interactive comment map�
Printed Newsletters and E-Newsletters
Printed newsletters were mailed to residents, and
e-newsletters were sent to individuals who signed up
through the project website or at public events� These
updates included project progress, summaries of
community input, upcoming engagement opportunities,
and reminders to participate in tools like the interactive
comment map�
Standalone Informational Boards
Informational display boards were installed at key
community locations, including City Hall and the Public
Library, to share high-level project information and
increase public awareness� These boards included a
summary of the project goals, timeline, and ways to get
involved, helping to reach residents who may not engage
online or attend in-person events�
31
Item 3.
28 Columbia Heights, Minnesota
“I would love to bike around Columbia Heights
more, but do not feel safe along Central or
crossing Central as people use it as a freeway
to commute from Downtown to the suburbs�
It needs safe bike paths off the road or
separated from the road by physical barriers�”
“Would love to see traffic calming measures
on our streets� This street is often used as
a bypass to get to the high school in the
mornings and it can become quite crazy before
and after school�”
“Bike lanes should be moved inside of parking
so that the parked cars protect the bike
lanes� Pavement of bike lanes in very rough
condition�”
“We need sidewalks in this neighborhood to
improve walkability and keep everyone safe�”
Community Insights
Feedback from community members was collected
through open house meetings, pop-up events, and surveys
in addition to virtual platforms� Some of these comments
are highlighted below�
“Wide turn radii in a residential area with many
pedestrians, children playing, and waiting for
the school bus� Turns should be much tighter
so that cars need to slow down while turning�”
“Add bike lane or path along 44th to connect
to the Mississippi River Trail in Fridley�”
“Library is located on this corner, it would be
great to have a crosswalk here so people can
get there safely, and not have to walk down to
a traffic light�”
“The walk lights across University never give
people enough time to cross�”
“All of 45th Avenue from Main to Stinson
should be narrowed using sidewalk, protected/
raised bike lanes, landscaping, and corner
bump-outs� This street could be beautiful
and used for bike/pedestrians a lot more,
but instead we have unmaintained asphalt
shoulders that are left unused� Prioritize
people over cars�”
32
Item 3.
29DRAFT Transportation Safety Action Plan
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33
Item 3.
30 Columbia Heights, Minnesota
Chapter 6
Project Prioritization
34
Item 3.
PROJECT PRIORITIZATION
31DRAFT Transportation Safety Action Plan
Prioritization Framework
Creating a system to prioritize safety improvements starts
with developing criteria to identify key projects� Given
the limited funds available for enhancing road safety
and maintaining infrastructure, it is crucial to ensure that
resources are allocated effectively� This begins with a
data-driven scoring system that evaluates all roadway
intersections and segments on the City’s High Injury
Network� By integrating a variety of quantitative and
qualitative factors, the prioritization framework helps
determine which investments provide the best return
on investment� This approach aims to optimize the use
of limited resources� A process flowchart illustrating this
prioritization framework is shown in Figure 6 below�
Project Prioritization
Community
Feedback
(16%)
Equity (14%)
Destination
Connectivity
(18%)
Crash History
and Risk
(52%)
Scoring Criteria
The categories of criteria selected for scoring include
Crash History and Risk, Destination Connectivity,
Community Feedback, and Equity� These elements,
shown in Figure 7 below, are evaluated and weighted
as illustrated in Table 2, with particular emphasis
on documented crash history and risk at each
location� Projects offering greater potential for safety
improvements or addressing known risks are prioritized
over those with lower impact� Additional details on data
sources and the scoring methodology are provided in
Appendix D�
Prioritization Results
Figure 8 shows the results of the initial prioritization of
project locations� Higher scoring locations are illustrated
with thick red lines while lower scoring locations are
illustrated with thinner orange or yellow lines� It is worth
noting that both 37th Ave NE and 53rd Ave NE are shown
on the High Injury Network, but both of these roadways
have had recent project improvements so it is unlikely
that another project will be completed on those corridors
in the near future�
Collect
Community
Input &
Analyze Crash
Data
Map High
Injury
Network
(HIN)
Define
Prioritization
Criteria
Weight
Prioritization
Criteria
Gather
Data from
Identified
Sources
Score HIN
Locations
FIGURE 7.
PRIORITIZATION
FACTORS
Prioritize Locations for
Safety Improvements
FIGURE 6. PROJECT
PRIORITIZATION PROCESS
35
Item 3.
32 Columbia Heights, Minnesota
Category
Score Weight Category Criteria Intersection or
Road Segment
Max Possible
Score
52%Crash History
and Risk
Fatal/Serious Crashes Both 14
Pedestrian and Bicycle Crashes Both 12
Traffic Volume Both 4
Speed Limit Both 4
Travel Lane Number Both 4
Approach Curvature Intersection 2
Median Segment 2
On-Street Parking Segment 2
Skew Intersection 2
Lighting Presence Intersection 2
Crosswalk Presence Intersection 2
Crossing Distance Intersection 2
18%Destination
Connectivity
Transit - BRT Both 4
Transit - Other Both 2
Activity Generators Both 4
Residential Area Both 4
Existing Bicycle Facilities Both 2
Existing Pedestrian Facilities Both 2
16%Community
Feedback Number of Responses Both 16
14%Equity
Minority Population Both 2
Serves Dependent Populations (Youth and
Senior Citizens)Both 2
Serves People with Disabilities Both 2
Serves People whose First Language is not
English Both 2
Serves Veterans Both 2
Serves Low-Income Populations Both 2
Serves Populations without Motor Vehicle
Access Both 2
TABLE 2. PROJECT PRIORITIZATION CRITERIA
36
Item 3.
PROJECT PRIORITIZATION
33DRAFT Transportation Safety Action Plan
FIGURE 8. SEGMENT AND INTERSECTION SCORES ON THE HIGH INJURY NETWORK
37
Item 3.
34 Columbia Heights, Minnesota
High Priority Locations
Figures 1 and 2 in Appendix D illustrate the top 25 highest-
priority intersections and roadway segments on the
High Injury Network (HIN), based on the scoring criteria�
Locations with the highest scores are considered the
most critical for safety improvements� Both maps display
intersections and segments; however, they differ in the
inclusion of two high-scoring corridors:
• Figure 1 (Appendix D) includes all locations, including
two MnDOT highways in the city - University Avenue
NE/TH 47 and Central Avenue NE/TH 65
• Figure 2 (Appendix D) excludes these two corridors
to highlight high-priority areas on the local or County
roadway systems�
Following the maps, Tables 1 through 5 (Appendix D)
present the corresponding data for these locations�
Separate tables are provided to show results including
and excluding the University Avenue NE/TH 47 and
Central Avenue NE/TH 65 corridors, which are outliers
due to their consistently high scores�
Potential Future Updates
The methodology used to determine the High Injury
Network should remain dynamic and adaptable� Future
updates to the prioritization criteria may include:
• Adjusting points and weights to better reflect City
priorities�
• Aligning the process more closely with other
prioritization frameworks, such as CIP prioritization�
• Incorporating or replacing ‘big data’ sources with
insights from local law enforcement and public
feedback to assess crash risks related to speeding or
dangerous driving behaviors�
• Further analyzing safety trends in each project area
to identify appropriate treatments for specific crash
history patterns and refining project prioritization
scoring�
• Evaluating the role of community support and
engagement in project prioritization�
Equity Considerations in
Project Prioritization
Equity was a core component of the project prioritization
framework, ensuring that safety improvements are
directed toward communities with the greatest
transportation needs� Using American Community Survey
(ACS) data derived from Esri Business Analyst, projects
received additional points if they served areas meeting
specific thresholds across the following criteria:
• Minority Population: Areas where more than 20% of
residents identify as non-White� These communities
often face systemic barriers to safe, reliable
transportation and are more likely to rely on walking,
biking, and transit�
• Dependent Populations (Youth and Seniors): Areas
with above-average shares of residents under 18 or
over 65� These age groups are more likely to depend
on non-driving modes and benefit from safer, more
accessible infrastructure�
• People with Disabilities: Areas with disability
rates above the statewide average� Individuals with
disabilities often face additional mobility challenges
and require inclusive, accessible design�
• Limited English Proficiency: Areas where a higher-
than-average share of residents speak English less
than “very well�” Language barriers can limit access
to transportation services and safety information�
• Veterans: Areas with veteran populations above the
statewide average� Veterans may experience unique
mobility needs due to age, disability, or economic
factors�
• Low-Income Households: Areas where 40% or more
of residents live below 185% of the federal poverty
line, a commonly used threshold that includes those
who earn slightly above the poverty line but still face
economic hardship� These populations are more
likely to rely on affordable, non-driving transportation
options�
• No Vehicle Access: Areas with above-average rates
of households without access to a motor vehicle�
These residents are especially dependent on safe
walking, biking, and transit infrastructure�
By incorporating these equity indicators into the scoring
process, the prioritization framework helps ensure that
transportation investments are both data-informed and
socially responsive, supporting a safer, more inclusive
network for all users�
38
Item 3.
35DRAFT Transportation Safety Action Plan
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39
Item 3.
36 Columbia Heights, Minnesota
Chapter 7
Safety Countermeasures
Toolbox
40
Item 3.
SAFETY COUNTERMEASURES TOOLBOX
37DRAFT Transportation Safety Action Plan
Safety Countermeasures Toolbox
To effectively reduce roadway fatalities and serious
injuries, Columbia Heights must thoroughly address safety
issues throughout the community� The selection and
design of safety countermeasures for every street project
should be guided by the Safe System Approach, ensuring
that any crashes that do occur do not result in fatalities or
serious injuries� It is crucial that safety countermeasures
are not compromised or simplified during the design or
construction phases, as this would diminish safety for all
road users�
This plan includes a Safety Countermeasures Toolbox,
featuring a variety of design treatments at intersections
or along roadway segments that may be used on
Columbia Heights’ roads� This list of design treatments is
not an exhaustive or comprehensive list, and additional
design treatments that are not listed in this plan may
be appropriate in future projects� Detailed descriptions
of each countermeasure can be found on the following
pages, and additional information sources for each are
provided and referenced in a numbered list on Page 61�
• Walkways
• Bikeways
• Shared Use Paths
• General Lighting
Improvements
• Crosswalk Visibility
Enhancements
• Speed Tables
• Raised Crosswalks
• Curb Extensions
• Medians and
Pedestrian Refuge
Islands
• Leading Pedestrian
Intervals
• Right-Turn on Red
Prohibitions
• Rectangular Rapid
Flashing Beacons
• Pedestrian Hybrid
Beacons
• Bicycle Boxes
• Bicycle Signals
• Road Diets (Roadway
Reconfiguration)
• Lane Diets (Lane
Narrowing)
• Corridor Access
Management
• Driveway
Improvements
• Roundabouts
• Mini Traffic Circles
• Chicanes
• Rumble Strips
41
Item 3.
38 Columbia Heights, Minnesota
Safety Statistics (FHWA)
• Sidewalks may reduce crashes involving
pedestrians walking along roadways by 65-89%�
• Paved shoulders may reduce crashes involving
pedestrians walking along roadways by 71%�
Walkways
Overview and Purpose
Walkways are defined spaces or pathways designated for
use by pedestrians or individuals using mobility devices�
These can include, but are not limited to, sidewalks,
shared use paths, or roadway shoulders� Well-designed
walkways enhance pedestrian safety and mobility by
providing a direct and connected network of walking
routes to desired destinations without gaps or abrupt
changes�
Design Considerations
• Ensure network connectivity with direct and
connected walking routes�
• Ensure walkways provide minimum ADA-compliant
widths that are clear of obstructions like signs and
utility poles�
• Provide and maintain accessible walkways along both
sides of the road in urban areas�
• Design walkways to improve safety and mobility,
including features like high-visibility crosswalks,
pedestrian warning signs, and tactile curb ramps�
• Wider walkways are needed in urban areas and
commercial districts�
• Separation between roadways and walkways is
preferred (i�e� grass or concrete boulevards)� This
separation improves pedestrian comfort and also
provides snow storage space in the winter�
Candidate Locations
• All urban streets and suburban arterials and
collectors�
• Streets that connect pedestrian origins and
destinations�
• High-speed and high-volume roadways without
adequate shoulder width�
Resources with Additional Information
• 4, 5, 19, 30, 38
Citations
• FHWA Proven Safety Countermeasures
• 2023 Minnesota’s Best Practices for Pedestrian and
Bicycle Safety
42
Item 3.
SAFETY COUNTERMEASURES TOOLBOX
39DRAFT Transportation Safety Action Plan
Bikeways
Overview and Purpose
Bikeways enhance safety and comfort for cyclists by
providing dedicated space, reducing interactions and
conflicts with motor vehicles� Buffered bikeways offer
increased separation, especially on roads with higher
volumes and speeds, reducing the risk of conflict between
modes�
Design Considerations
• Include bikeways on new or existing roads through
road diets�
• Use vertical elements or separated lanes on high-
volume roads�
• Avoid rumble strips impacting cyclists in rural areas�
• Provide at least 2 feet of space between roadways
and bikeways to provide buffer space�
Candidate Locations
• On-road bikeways: Suitable for roadways at or
below speeds of 30 MPH and/or AADT volumes of
6,000�
• Separated bikeways: Suitable for roadways at or
above speeds 30 MPH and/or AADT volumes of over
6,000, and areas connecting biking networks�
Resources with Additional Information
• 3, 8, 9, 10, 23, 24, 29, 34
Citations
• FHWA Proven Safety Countermeasures
• 2023 Minnesota’s Best Practices for Pedestrian and
Bicycle Safety
Safety Statistics (FHWA)
• Separated bikeways with flexible delineator
posts may reduce bicycle/vehicle crashes by up
to 53%�
• Any bicycle facility addition may reduce total
crashes by 49% on urban 4-lane undivided
collectors and local roads and 30% on urban
2-lane undivided collectors and local roads�
43
Item 3.
40 Columbia Heights, Minnesota
Shared Use Paths
Overview and Purpose
Shared use paths are bicycle and pedestrian facilities that
are physically separated from motor vehicle traffic by an
open space or barrier� Designed for two-way travel, they
serve various nonmotorized users and can be located
within roadway right-of-way or an independent right-of-
way�
Design Considerations
• Typical widths range from 8 to 15 feet, allowing for
separation of bicyclists and pedestrians�
• ADA accessibility features are required, including
ramps and detectable warnings at intersections�
Candidate Locations
• Roadways with high traffic volumes and speeds�
• Areas with a high volume, mix, and wide travel speed
range of pedestrian and bicyclists�
• Locations where space is limited, shared use paths
can replace separated bike lanes�
• Wider paths are necessary where there are large
numbers of bicyclists or other nonmotorized users�
Resources with Additional Information
• 8, 10, 24
Citations
• 2023 Minnesota’s Best Practices for Pedestrian and
Bicycle Safety
44
Item 3.
SAFETY COUNTERMEASURES TOOLBOX
41DRAFT Transportation Safety Action Plan
General Lighting
Improvements
Overview and Purpose
Roadway lighting improves nighttime visibility, reducing
crash risk by helping drivers and other road users
detect hazards earlier� Lighting is especially beneficial at
intersections, pedestrian crossings, and along high-speed
corridors�
Design Considerations
• At intersections, ensure lighting is adequate for
nighttime visibility and pedestrian safety�
• Use shielded lighting features or place lights far
enough from the roadway to minimize the risk of
fixed-object crashes�
• Use modern lighting technology to minimize light
pollution and excessive spillover to neighboring
properties�
Candidate Locations
• All roadway types, especially in urbanized areas
• Intersections with high traffic volume or known crash
history at night�
• Pedestrian crossings and transit stop areas,
especially in areas with high non-motorized traffic�
Resources with Additional Information
• 30
Citations
• FHWA Proven Safety Countermeasures
Safety Statistics (FHWA)
Adequate lighting may reduce:
• Nighttime pedestrian injury crashes by up to
42%�
• Crashes by 33-38% at rural and urban
intersections�
• Overall nighttime crashes on highways by 28%�
45
Item 3.
42 Columbia Heights, Minnesota
Crosswalk Visibility and
Approach Enhancements
Overview and Purpose
Enhancing crosswalk visibility and vehicle approach
improves safety for pedestrians, bicyclists, mobility device
users, and transit users by making crosswalks more visible
to drivers�
Design Considerations
• Use high-visibility crosswalk patterns like bar pairs,
continental, or ladder�
• Illuminate crosswalks with positive contrast lighting,
ensuring lights are positioned to prevent silhouettes
and keep pedestrians clearly visible to drivers�
• Use “YIELD Here to Pedestrians” or “STOP Here for
Pedestrians” signs in advance of crosswalks�
• Enforce parking restrictions near crosswalks�
• Implement advanced stop lines and install tactile
warning surfaces�
Candidate Locations
• Signalized intersections�
• Unsignalized locations with AADT below 15,000�
• Unsignalized locations (including mid-block locations)
with high pedestrian activity�
• Areas near schools, parks, transit stops, and other
pedestrian generators�
Resources with Additional Information
• 2, 7, 11, 12, 13, 22, 25, 26, 27, 28, 37
Citations
• FHWA Proven Safety Countermeasures
• 2023 Minnesota’s Best Practices for Pedestrian and
Bicycle Safety
Safety Statistics (FHWA)
• High-visibility crosswalks may cut pedestrian
injury crashes by up to 40%�
• Adding lighting at intersections may cut
pedestrian crashes by up to 42%�
• Advance yield or stop markings and signs may
cut pedestrian crash rates by up to 25%�
46
Item 3.
SAFETY COUNTERMEASURES TOOLBOX
43DRAFT Transportation Safety Action Plan
Speed Tables
Overview and Purpose
Speed tables are traffic calming devices that raise
the entire wheelbase of a motor vehicle� This vertical
deflection reduces vehicle speeds, enhancing safety for all
road users, especially non-motorized traffic� Unlike speed
humps, which are shorter and curved, speed tables have a
flat top that accommodates the entire vehicle wheelbase�
Design Considerations
• Speed tables are typically 3 to 6 inches high, around
15 to 20 feet long, and nearly the full width of the
road (often allowing for stormwater drainage in
adjacent gutters)�
• Designers should consider drainage needs for all
raised treatments to ensure the roadway still drains
properly�
• May not be appropriate on major streets or on truck
routes�
• Design with pavement markings that make speed
table presence clear to drivers�
Candidate Locations
• Roadways that tend to promote high automotive
speeds�
• Roadways where high-speed automobiles conflict
with crossing pedestrians and/or bicyclists�
• Transition areas from higher-speed to lower-speed
roadways�
Resources with Additional Information
• 21
Citations
• MnDOT — 2024 — Bicycle Facility Design Manual
47
Item 3.
44 Columbia Heights, Minnesota
Safety Statistics (MNDOT)
• Raised crosswalks may reduce pedestrian
crashes by 45%�
Raised Crosswalks
Overview and Purpose
Raised crosswalks combine a marked crosswalk with a
speed table that extends the full width of the crossing�
This type of vertical deflection reduces motor vehicle
speeds and improves visibility between drivers, bicyclists,
and pedestrians at crossing locations�
Design Considerations
• Raised crosswalks are typically 3 to 6 inches high�
• Raised crosswalks can be placed mid-block or at an
intersection and are commonly constructed to be
flush with the roadside curb�
• ADA standards should be incorporated�
• Approaches should have approach grades between
4% and 7%�
Candidate Locations
• Locations with high pedestrian or bicycle activity,
such as at school crossings, park entrances, and
commercial shopping districts�
• Crossings around roundabouts�
• Locations where shared use paths cross commercial
driveways or ramps�
Resources with Additional Information
• 33, 37
Citations
• 2023 Minnesota’s Best Practices for Pedestrian and
Bicycle Safety
48
Item 3.
SAFETY COUNTERMEASURES TOOLBOX
45DRAFT Transportation Safety Action Plan
Curb Extensions
Overview and Purpose
Curb extensions, also known as bump outs, extend the
sidewalk into the roadway, reducing crossing distances for
pedestrians and improving sightlines between pedestrians
and drivers� They provide visual cues to drivers to reduce
speeds and watch for pedestrians and bicyclists�
Design Considerations
• Extend the full width of a parking lane�
• Maintain proper sight distance between pedestrians
and motorists�
• Consider stormwater runoff and catch basins�
• Curb extensions can be lengthened to include
landscaping, stormwater treatment, transit waiting
areas, and bus shelters�
• Use a compound radius to increase available curb
extension space while allowing large vehicles to turn�
• Choose between raised curb extensions or lower-
cost painted alternatives�
• Consider the potential need for right turn lanes
should be evaluated prior to curb extension
implementation�
Candidate Locations
• Urban settings with on-street parking lanes or
shoulders where the extensions will not impede
bicycle travel�
• Mid-block crossings�
• Bus stops�
Resources with Additional Information
• 27, 30, 35
Citations
• 2023 Minnesota’s Best Practices for Pedestrian and
Bicycle Safety
Safety Statistics (MNDOT)
• Curb extensions may reduce pedestrian crashes
by up to 45%�
49
Item 3.
46 Columbia Heights, Minnesota
Medians and Pedestrian Refuge
Islands
Overview and Purpose
Medians and pedestrian refuge islands provide a safe
area for pedestrians to wait while crossing one direction
of traffic at a time� These features are crucial in areas
with high pedestrian and vehicle traffic volumes, reducing
pedestrian crashes and improving safety�
Design Considerations
• Include high-visibility crosswalks, pedestrian warning
signs, and tactile curb ramps�
• Consider pairing with RRFB, especially on higher
volume roadways�
• Ensure maintenance strategies are in place to keep
crossing islands clear of snow and debris�
Candidate Locations
• Mid-block crossing locations�
• High-priority pedestrian crossing locations such as
transit stops, schools, and parks�
• Roads with four or more lanes, speeds greater than
35 mph, and/or AADT greater than 9,000�
Resources with Additional Information
• 1, 13, 14, 37
Citations
• FHWA Proven Safety Countermeasures
• 2023 Minnesota’s Best Practices for Pedestrian and
Bicycle Safety
50
Item 3.
SAFETY COUNTERMEASURES TOOLBOX
47DRAFT Transportation Safety Action Plan
Safety Statistics (FHWA)
• LPIs may reduce pedestrian-vehicle crashes at
intersections by up to 13%�
Leading Pedestrian Intervals
Overview and Purpose
A Leading Pedestrian Interval (LPI) allows pedestrians to
enter the crosswalk 3-7 seconds before vehicles receive a
green signal, increasing pedestrian visibility and reducing
conflicts with turning vehicles� LPIs are beneficial at
intersections with high pedestrian and turning vehicle
volumes�
Design Considerations
• Refer to the FHWA’s Manual on Uniform Traffic
Control Devices (MUTCD) for timing guidance�
• LPIs are cost-effective when only signal timing
alterations are required�
• Program LPIs into existing traffic signals, activated by
pedestrian push buttons or automatic recall�
• Ensure pedestrian signals are visible to both
pedestrians and drivers�
Candidate Locations
• Signalized intersections with high crossing volumes�
• Signalized intersections with high turning vehicle
volumes�
• Signalized intersections with patterns of pedestrian
or bicycle conflict with vehicles�
Resources with Additional Information
• 30, 36, 37
Citations
• FHWA Proven Safety Countermeasures
• 2023 Minnesota’s Best Practices for Pedestrian and
Bicycle Safety
51
Item 3.
48 Columbia Heights, Minnesota
Right-Turn on Red Prohibitions
Overview and Purpose
Right-turn on red (RTOR) prohibitions at signalized
intersections enhances pedestrian and bicyclist safety
by reducing conflicts with turning vehicles� This practice
helps mitigate risks stemming from motorists focusing on
gaps in traffic rather than looking for crossing pedestrians�
Design Considerations
• Install No Turn on Red signs, either static or
electronic�
• Place signs within proper sight lines of potentially
turning drivers�
• RTOR prohibitions may be signed to occur only
during peak travel times�
• No Right-Turn LED Blank-out signs can be
programmed to be activated by pedestrians or
during certain traffic signal phases�
Candidate Locations
• Locations with limited sight distance and/or unusual
geometry�
• School zones, libraries, senior centers, transit
stations, or other pedestrian traffic generators�
• Intersections with exclusive bicycle facilities or trail
crossings�
• Crosswalks meeting MN MUTCD pedestrian volume
and/or school crossing warrant�
Resources with Additional Information
• 6� 31
Citations
• 2023 Minnesota’s Best Practices for Pedestrian and
Bicycle Safety
52
Item 3.
SAFETY COUNTERMEASURES TOOLBOX
49DRAFT Transportation Safety Action Plan
Rectangular Rapid Flashing
Beacons (RRFB)
Overview and Purpose
Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons (RRFB) are
pedestrian-actuated traffic control devices designed
to enhance pedestrian visibility and increase driver
awareness at uncontrolled, marked crosswalks� RRFBs
consist of two rectangular-shaped yellow indications
with LED-array-based light sources that flash with an
alternating high frequency when activated�
Design Considerations
• Install RRFBs on both sides of a crosswalk below
the pedestrian crossing sign and above the diagonal
downward arrow plaque�
• The flashing pattern can be activated with
pushbuttons or passive pedestrian detection
methods�
• Solar panels are recommended to eliminate the need
for a power source�
• RRFBs should be reserved for locations with
significant pedestrian safety issues to avoid
diminishing their effectiveness through overuse�
• Maintenance for RRFBs depends on the power
supply type�
• If placed on roadways with more than one lane in a
single travel direction, advance stop bar pavement
markings should be provided to mitigate potential
sight line issues�
Candidate Locations
• Locations with traffic volumes less than 12,000
vehicles per day�
• Locations with speeds less than 40 MPH�
Resources with Additional Information
• 12, 16
Citations
• FHWA Proven Safety Countermeasures
• 2023 Minnesota’s Best Practices for Pedestrian and
Bicycle Safety
Safety Statistics (FHWA)
RRFBs may reduce:
• Pedestrian crashes by up to 47%�
• Increase motorist yielding rates by up to 98%
(depending on speed limit, number of lanes,
crossing distance, and time of day)�
53
Item 3.
50 Columbia Heights, Minnesota
Pedestrian Hybrid Beacons
(PHB)
Overview and Purpose
The pedestrian hybrid beacon (PHB) is a traffic control
device designed to help pedestrians safely cross higher-
speed roadways at midblock crossings and uncontrolled
intersections� The beacon head consists of two red lenses
above a single yellow lens� The lenses remain “dark” until a
pedestrian pushes the call button to activate the beacon,
initiating a yellow to red lighting sequence that directs
motorists to slow and stop, providing the right-of-way to
the pedestrian to cross safely before going dark again�
Design Considerations
• Installation must include a marked crosswalk and
pedestrian countdown signal�
• Agencies should conduct education and outreach if
PHBs are not familiar to the community�
• PHBs are effective at locations with high pedestrian
activity and where gaps in traffic are insufficient for
safe crossing�
Candidate Locations
• Areas with insufficient traffic gaps or speed limits
over 35 mph�
• Locations with three or more lanes or traffic volumes
above 9,000 AADT�
• Midblock crossings and uncontrolled intersections
with high pedestrian volumes�
• Meeting Minnesota MUTCD volume warrants is
typically a precondition for implementing a PHB�
Resources with Additional Information
• 12, 15, 16
Citations
• FHWA Proven Safety Countermeasures
• 2023 Minnesota’s Best Practices for Pedestrian and
Bicycle Safety
54
Item 3.
SAFETY COUNTERMEASURES TOOLBOX
51DRAFT Transportation Safety Action Plan
Bicycle Boxes
Overview and Purpose
A bicycle box is a set of pavement marking elements
installed at signalized intersections that allows bicyclists
to pull in front of waiting traffic at a red light� This makes
bicyclists more visible to motorists and gives bicyclists a
head start when the light turns green, thus providing the
opportunity to avoid conflicts with turning motor vehicles�
Design Considerations
• Place an advance stop line at least 10 feet from the
intersection stop line�
• Prohibit right-turn on red movements to avoid
conflicts between right-turning motor vehicles and
waiting bicyclists�
• Provide at least 50 feet of a bicycle lane prior to the
bicycle box�
• Coordinate with bicycle signals to provide a leading
bicycle interval�
Candidate Locations
• Signalized intersections�
• Roadways that already have bike lanes and a
substantial volume of bicycle traffic�
• Intersections where a left-turn is necessary to
continue on a dedicated bicycle route or other
shared use path�
• Locations where there are motor vehicle-bicycle
turning conflicts�
• Locations where right turn on red prohibitions for
motor vehicles can be added�
Resources with Additional Information
• 20, 29
Citations
• 2023 Minnesota’s Best Practices for Pedestrian and
Bicycle Safety
Safety Statistics (MNDOT)
• Studies show a 35% reduction in bicycle crashes
where bike boxes have been implemented�
55
Item 3.
52 Columbia Heights, Minnesota
Source: www�pedbikeimages�org / Adam Coppola Photography
Bicycle Signals
Overview and Purpose
A separate bicycle signal can improve operations involving
bicycle facilities and designate right-of-way for bicyclists
at locations where their needs may differ from other
roadway users� Bicycle signals help reduce conflicts
between bicycles and motor vehicles, enhancing safety
and efficiency at intersections�
Design Considerations
• Place signal heads in a location visible to
approaching bicycles�
• Implement a bicycle recall phase for each cycle or
install detection and actuation�
• Ensure proper clearance intervals based on bicycle
travel speeds and crossing distance�
• Prohibit right turn on red movements if bicycle
movements conflict with right-turning vehicles�
Candidate Locations
• Intersections with high motor vehicle-bicycle
conflicts�
• Intersections with two-way or contraflow bicycle
movement�
• Bicycle facility transitions requiring bicyclists to cross
through a motor vehicle lane�
• Intersections permitting short cycle lengths with
bicycle detection or a bicycle phase on recall�
Resources with Additional Information
• 20, 23, 24, 29
Citations
• 2023 Minnesota’s Best Practices for Pedestrian and
Bicycle Safety
56
Item 3.
SAFETY COUNTERMEASURES TOOLBOX
53DRAFT Transportation Safety Action Plan
Road Diets (Roadway
Reconfiguration)
Overview and Purpose
A road diet, or roadway reconfiguration, is a traffic
management strategy that aims to improve safety, calm
traffic, and provide better mobility and access for all road
users� Most commonly, a road diet involves converting
an existing four-lane undivided roadway into a three-lane
roadway with two through lanes and a center two-way
left-turn lane (TWLTL)�
Design Considerations
• Implement on roadways with a current and future
average daily traffic of 20,000 vehicles or less�
• Provide opportunities to install pedestrian refuge
islands, bicycle lanes, on-street parking, or transit
stops�
• A road diet can be a low-cost safety solution when
planned in conjunction with a simple pavement
overlay�
Candidate Locations
• Roadways with volumes up to 20,000 AADT�
• Maximum daily volume compatible with road diet
could be lower in environments with higher densities
of high-volume access points�
Resources with Additional Information
• 17, 18, 31, 37
Citations
• FHWA Proven Safety Countermeasures
• 2023 Minnesota’s Best Practices for Pedestrian and
Bicycle Safety
Safety Statistics (FHWA)
• Road diet conversions from 4-lane to 3-lane may
reduce total crashes by 19-47%�
57
Item 3.
54 Columbia Heights, Minnesota
Lane Diets (Lane Narrowing)
Overview and Purpose
Narrowing vehicle lane widths improves safety and
comfort for pedestrians, bicyclists, transit riders, and
drivers by lowering vehicle speeds, reducing crossing
widths, and redistributing roadway space for other uses�
Design Considerations
• Consider surrounding land uses, parking turnover,
vehicular speeds, and traffic volumes/types�
• Consider adding low-impact vertical elements (like
flexible bollards) to the edges of the traveled way to
reinforce new lane widths�
• Consider truck turning radii at intersections with
frequent truck movements�
Candidate Locations
• Roadways with safety and speeding issues�
• Areas with lane widths greater than recommended
minimums�
• Locations where space can be redistributed for bike
lanes, parking lanes, transit lanes, widened sidewalks,
landscaped buffers, and curb extensions�
Resources with Additional Information
• 30
Citations
• PEDSAFE: Pedestrian Safety Guide and
Countermeasure Selection System
58
Item 3.
SAFETY COUNTERMEASURES TOOLBOX
55DRAFT Transportation Safety Action Plan
Corridor Access Management
Overview and Purpose
Corridor access management refers to the strategic
placement and control of driveways and intersections
along a corridor� Reducing and organizing access points
improves safety, supports walking and biking, and reduces
congestion and delay�
Design Considerations
• Close, consolidate, or relocate driveways to reduce
conflict points�
• Space driveways and intersections according to
minimum clearance standards�
• Restrict movements at driveways (e�g�, right-in/right-
out only)�
• Place driveways on approach corners rather than
receiving corners to reduce crashes�
• Use raised medians to eliminate left-turn and across-
roadway movements�
• Consider roundabouts, U-turn treatments, or access
roads for safe circulation�
• Provide designated turn lanes to separate turning
vehicles from through traffic�
Candidate Locations
• Corridors with high driveway density�
• Areas with closely spaced full-access driveways
• Segments with frequent turning conflicts�
• High-traffic corridors with pedestrian and bike
activity�
Resources with Additional Information
• 29, 30
Citations
• FHWA Proven Safety Countermeasures
Safety Statistics (FHWA)
Decreased driveway density may reduce:
• Total crashes along 2-lane rural roads by up to
5-23%�
• Fatal and injury crashes along urban/subruban
arterials by up to 25-31%�
59
Item 3.
56 Columbia Heights, Minnesota
Driveway Improvements
Overview and Purpose
Driveway design directly affects pedestrian safety and
accessibility� Wide, sloped, or poorly defined driveways
can increase crash risk and create barriers for people
walking or using mobility devices� Improvements help calm
traffic, enhance visibility, and support ADA compliance�
Design Considerations
• Narrow driveways (15–20 ft) and tighten turning radii
to slow vehicles�
• Maintain sidewalk level with max 2% cross slope;
wrap around apron if needed�
• Use continuous sidewalk materials to emphasize
pedestrian priority�
• Clearly define driveway edges with curbs, paint, or
planters�
• Keep sightlines clear by limiting vegetation and
signage near driveways�
Candidate Locations
• Areas with excessively wide or sloped driveways
• Locations with large turning radii, multiple adjacent,
or poorly defined driveways�
• Driveways where motorists focus on finding gaps in
congested traffic�
• Corridors with closely spaced driveways that disrupt
traffic flow or create frequent turning conflicts�
Resources with Additional Information
• 29, 30
Citations
• PEDSAFE — 2013 — Pedestrian Safety Guide and
Countermeasure Selection System
60
Item 3.
SAFETY COUNTERMEASURES TOOLBOX
57DRAFT Transportation Safety Action Plan
Safety Statistics (FHWA)
• Converting a two-way stop-controlled
intersection to a roundabout may reduce fatal
and injury crashes by 82%�
• Converting a signalized intersection to a
roundabout may reduce fatal and injury crashes
by 78%�
• Four-legged roundabouts may reduce pedestrian
crashes by approximately 60%�
• Single-lane roundabouts may have an 89%
reduction in fatal crashes�
Roundabouts
Overview and Purpose
Roundabouts are circular intersections designed to
improve traffic flow and safety by reducing speeds and
conflict points� They include channelized approaches and
a center island, with entering traffic yielding to circulating
vehicles� To enhance pedestrian and bicyclist safety,
roundabouts may include raised crosswalks, pedestrian
refuges, and dedicated bicycle lanes� Proper lighting and
clear signage are crucial for user awareness�
Design Considerations
• Roundabouts can be single-lane or multi-lane�
• Single-lane roundabouts are simpler and safer for
pedestrians and bicyclists�
• Multi-lane roundabouts require additional safety
enhancements for pedestrians and bicyclists�
• Proper deflection angles at entries and exits reduce
vehicle speeds�
• Truck aprons accommodate larger vehicles while
maintaining low speeds at conflict points
Candidate Locations
• Intersections with a pattern of fatal, angle, turning,
and head-on crashes�
• Intersections with poor operations under existing
stop control�
• Intersections with unwarranted traffic signals�
• Locations where platoon and gap acceptance
management are beneficial�
Resources with Additional Information
• 24, 27
Citations
• FHWA Proven Safety Countermeasures
• 2023 Minnesota’s Best Practices for Pedestrian and
Bicycle Safety
61
Item 3.
58 Columbia Heights, Minnesota
Mini Roundabouts
Overview and Purpose
Mini roundabouts slow vehicle speeds at low-volume
intersections, improving safety for all users� They are
compact, cost-effective alternatives to stop signs and
signal controls, ideal for residential streets�
Design Considerations
• Use mini roundabouts with proper clearance and
turning radii to maintain traffic flow�
• Install shared lane or intersection-crossing markings
to guide cyclists�
• Landscape with trees or shrubs while maintaining
clear visibility�
• Define crosswalks clearly and prioritize pedestrian
movement�
• Retrofit within existing footprints or design to
resemble standard single-lane roundabouts�
Candidate Locations
• Residential streets and low-volume intersections�
• Locations where speed control and pedestrian safety
are priorities�
Citations
• FHWA Proven Safety Countermeasures
• FHWA Developing Crash Modification Factors for
Mini-Roundabouts
Safety Statistics (FHWA)
• Mini roundabouts converted from all-way
stop-controlled intersections may reduce multi-
vehicle crashes by 39%�
62
Item 3.
SAFETY COUNTERMEASURES TOOLBOX
59DRAFT Transportation Safety Action Plan
Chicanes
Overview and Purpose
Chicanes are horizontal traffic control measures used
to reduce vehicle speeds on local streets� They create a
horizontal diversion of traffic and can be gentler or more
restrictive depending on the design� A secondary benefit
of chicanes is the ability to add more landscaping to a
street�
Design Considerations
• Shifting a travel lane affects speeds; taper lengths
should reflect the desired speed�
• Shifts can be created by shifting parking and/or
building landscaped islands�
• Chicanes can be combined with other measures,
such as curb extensions�
• Maintain good visibility by planting only low shrubs
or trees with high canopies�
• Ensure bicyclist safety and mobility remain intact�
Candidate Locations
• Residential streets with low traffic volumes�
• Streets with higher volumes, such as collectors, if
there is no restriction on the number of lanes�
Resources with Additional Information
• 29, 30
Citations
• PEDSAFE — 2013 — Pedestrian Safety Guide and
Countermeasure Selection System
63
Item 3.
60 Columbia Heights, Minnesota
Safety Statistics (FHWA)
• Centerline rumble strips may reduce head-on
crashes by 44-64%�
• Shoulder rumble strip may reduce run-off-road
crashes by 13-51%�
Rumble Strips
Overview and Purpose
Rumble strips are pavement treatments designed to alert
drivers when they leave their lane through noise and
vibration� They can be placed along the shoulder, edge
line, or centerline of undivided roads� Rumble strips help
reduce roadway departure crashes, which are a leading
cause of fatal accidents�
Design Considerations
• Use centerline rumble strips on two-lane roads,
especially in passing zones�
• Install edge line or shoulder rumble strips with
bicycle gaps in areas prone to run-off-road crashes�
• Consider “mumble strips” (lower noise) where noise
is a concern�
• Develop a maintenance plan to prevent issues with
snow or rain build-up�
Candidate Locations
• Rural roads, highways, and areas with high traffic
volumes�
• Roads undergoing resurfacing or reconstruction�
Citations
• FHWA Proven Safety Countermeasures
64
Item 3.
SAFETY COUNTERMEASURES TOOLBOX
61DRAFT Transportation Safety Action Plan
Resources with Additional Information
1� Americans with Disabilities Act — 2010 — Accessibility Guidelines for Buildings and Facilities
2� ANSI/IES — 2022 — Standard Practice for Roadway Lighting
3� BIKESAFE — Bicycle Safety Guide and Countermeasure Selection System
4� City of Bloomington — 2019 — Urban Forestry Plan
5� City of Bloomington — 2017 — Tree Care Manual
6� City of Chicago — 2013 — Complete Streets Chicago
7� DarkSky — 2024 — Outdoor Lighting Guidelines
8� FHWA — 2019 — Bikeway Selection Guide
9� FHWA — 2015 — Separated Bike Lane Planning and Design Guide
10� FHWA — Shared Use Path Level of Service Calculator
11� FHWA — Crash Modification Factors Clearinghouse
12� FHWA — 2025 — Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices
13� FHWA — 2022 — Guide for Improving Pedestrian Safety at Uncontrolled Crossing Locations
14� FHWA — 2001 — Designing Sidewalks and Trails for Access
15� FHWA — 2014 — Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon Guide– Recommendations and Case Study
16� FHWA — Center for Accelerating Innovation EDC-4 Innovations
17� FHWA — 2014 — Road Diet Informational Guide
18� FHWA — 2010 — Evaluation of Lane Reduction “Road Diet” Measures on Crashes
19� FHWA — 2015 — Guide for Maintaining Pedestrian Facilities for Enhanced Safety
20� FHWA — 2025 — Interim Approvals Issued
21� FHWA Safe — 2025 — Transportation for Every Pedestrian (STEP)
22� ITE — 2022 — A Guide to Vertical Deflection Speed Reduction Techniques: Planning and Design of Speed Humps
23� MassDOT — 2015 — Separated Bicycle Lane Planning and Design Guide
24� MnDOT — 2024 — Bicycle Facility Design Manual
25� MnDOT — 2015 — Traffic Engineering Manual
26� MnDOT — 2017 — County Roadway Safety Plans
27� MnDOT — 2024 — Roadway Design Manual
28� MnDOT — Engineering Solutions for Traffic Safety
29� NACTO — 2025 — Urban Bikeway Design Guide
30� NACTO — 2025 — Urban Street Design Guide
31� NACTO — 2013 — Transit Street Design Guide
32� NCHRP — 2017 — Development of Crash Modification Factors for Uncontrolled Pedestrian Crossing Treatments
33� NYDOT — 2011 — Complete Streets
34� ODOT — 2025 — Multimodal Design Guide
35� PedBikeInfo — 2013 — Costs for Pedestrian and Bicyclist Infrastructure Improvements
36� Pedestrian and Bicycle Information Center —— Signals and Signs
37� PEDSAFE — 2013 — Pedestrian Safety Guide and Countermeasure Selection System
38� PROWAG
65
Item 3.
62 Columbia Heights, Minnesota
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66
Item 3.
63DRAFT Transportation Safety Action Plan
Chapter 8
Demonstration Project
Recommendations
67
Item 3.
64 Columbia Heights, Minnesota
Demonstration Project Recommendations
As part of Columbia Heights’ ongoing efforts to improve roadway safety and reduce the risk of serious and fatal
crashes, there may be significant value in demonstration projects to test temporary safety treatments� These projects
align with the Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) program and are designed to test low-cost, quick-build, temporary
interventions that could eventually lead to more permanent improvements� The primary goal is to evaluate these
treatments in real-world settings to measure their effectiveness and inform the development of future infrastructure
projects�
Key Elements for Success
Temporary Materials
Demonstration projects often use paint, plastic
delineators, planters, cones, and other low-cost
materials to simulate improvements like curb extensions,
roundabouts, and high-visibility crosswalks�
Stakeholder Coordination
Coordination with local departments, schools, community
groups, and public safety teams is recommended to
ensure project success and alignment with broader
transportation and safety goals�
Data Collection & Evaluation
Projects should be closely monitored to collect data and
assess safety impacts� Key metrics should be informed
by the intended improvement, and may include vehicle
speeds, crash data, and community feedback to guide
future planning�
Community Involvement
Engaging the community is a key aspect of successful
demonstration projects� Public meetings, surveys, and
interactive tools should inform the design and duration,
and ensure that the community’s concerns and feedback
are incorporated into the decision-making process�
Recommended Demonstration
Projects
Two high-priority demonstration projects are
recommended for implementation — curb extensions
on 49th Avenue NE (Project 1) and an in-street, shared-
use path on Jefferson Street NE (Project 2) — to test
temporary safety treatments and guide future permanent
improvements� More details on these two recommended
demonstration projects are shown on the following pages�
Additional Guidance
For guidance on temporary safety projects, see MnDOT’s Demonstration Project Implementation Guide (2019) and
Street Plan's Tactical Urbanist's Guide to Materials and Design (2016) for best practices on materials and design�
1
2
68
Item 3.
DEMONSTRATION PROJECT RECOMMENDATIONS
65DRAFT Transportation Safety Action Plan
Project 1: Curb Extensions on 49th Avenue NE
Location:
Three intersections along 49th Avenue NE near the
Columbia Heights High School, Highland Elementary, and
Columbia Heights Family Center campus�
Rationale:
• Student, faculty, and visitor crossing safety near
schools and community facilities�
• Traffic calming through narrower street design�
• Access to education, recreation, and support
services�
• No parking impacts due to existing yellow curbs�
• Minimal impacts to turn lanes or vehicle movement�
Proposed Treatment:
Implementation of curb extensions at the following
intersections:
• 49th Ave NE & Fillmore St NE – northeast and
southeast corners�
• 49th Ave NE & Columbia Heights High School main
driveway – northwest and northeast corners�
• 49th Ave NE & Johnson St NE – northwest and
southwest corners�
Potential Challenges:
• Turning radius for buses�
• Informal right-turn lanes in conflict with proposed
extensions�
• Possible disruption to loading zones�
• Maintaining traffic flow during peak school hours�
• Snow and ice removal if demonstration project is
continued during winter months�
Data Collection & Evaluation Metrics:
• Vehicle speeds before and after installation�
• Crash incidents, especially pedestrian-related�
• Observed pedestrian behavior and crossing safety�
• Feedback from students, school staff, families, and
community members�
Next Steps:
• Finalize intersection design details�
• Coordinate with Anoka County, Columbia Heights
Public Schools, and community partners�
• Obtain materials for installation�
• Communicate project information with nearby
residents and other stakeholders�
Fi
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Columbia Heights Columbia Heights
High SchoolHigh School
49th Ave NE49th Ave NE
Highland Elementary Highland Elementary
SchoolSchoolProposed Demonstration Project Location
69
Item 3.
66 Columbia Heights, Minnesota
Project 2: Shared-Use Path on Jefferson Street NE
Location:
Jefferson Street NE, between 49th Avenue NE and 47th
Avenue NE (west side of street)
Rationale:
• Lack of sidewalks or bicycle facilities�
• Improve connections and access to McKenna Park�
• Proximity to Highland Elementary School�
Proposed Treatment:
Develop a temporary, in-street shared-use path on the
west side of Jefferson St NE to improve pedestrian and
bicyclist access and safety�
Potential Challenges:
• Loss of on-street parking on west side�
• Community awareness and acceptance, particularly
with residents that live on the west side of Jefferson
St NE that would lose parking in front of their homes�
• Safe crossings and visibility at intersections
Data Collection & Evaluation Metrics:
• Vehicle speeds before and after path installation�
• Crash incidents involving pedestrians or cyclists�
• Feedback from residents, park users, and school
staff�
Next Steps:
• Finalize design details�
• Communicate project information with nearby
residents and other stakeholders
• Obtain materials for installation�
49th Ave NE49th Ave NE
Je
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48th Ave NE48th Ave NE
47th Ave NE47th Ave NE
McKenna McKenna
ParkPark
Proposed Demonstration Project Location
Source: Google Street View
70
Item 3.
DEMONSTRATION PROJECT RECOMMENDATIONS
67DRAFT Transportation Safety Action Plan
Demonstration Project Details and Cost Estimates
The following tables outline key details for the two
proposed demonstration projects in Columbia Heights,
including pavement marking quantities (Table 3),
delineator needs based on spacing (Table 4), and
estimated material costs with project-specific and
combined totals (Table 5; in 2025 dollar values)�
Although Projects 1 and 2 are recommended for near-term
implementation, many other locations across Columbia
Heights could also benefit from similar quick-build safety
treatments� These demonstration efforts will help guide
future investments in safer, more accessible streets
throughout the city�
TABLE 3. ESTIMATED PAVEMENT MARKING TAPE QUANTITIES
Project Estimated Pavement Marking Tape (ft)
49th Ave NE 360
Jefferson St NE 1400
Combined 1880
TABLE 4. ESTIMATED DELINEATOR QUANTITIES
Project Total Length (ft)Delineator
Interval (ft)
Estimated
Delineator Count
Extra
Delineators
Total # of
Delineators
1: 49th Ave NE 360 10 36 4 40
2: Jefferson St NE 1400 15 93 7 100
Combined ----140
TABLE 5. ESTIMATED MATERIAL COSTS BY PROJECT (IN 2025 DOLLAR VALUES)
Item Cost Project 1 (49th Ave
NE)
Project 2 (Jefferson
St NE)Combined
Delineators ~ $25 - $35 ~ $1500 - $2000 ~ $2500 - $3000 ~ $4000 - $5000
Delineator Adhesive ~ $3 - $5 (per unit)~ $500 - $700 ~ $1200 - $1500 ~ $1600 - $2000
Pavement Marking
Tape ~ $1 - $1�50 (per foot)~ $150 - $250 ~ $300 - $400 ~ $450 - $550
Total -~ $2200 - $3000 ~ $4000 - $5000 ~ $6000 - $7500
71
Item 3.
68 Columbia Heights, Minnesota
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72
Item 3.
69DRAFT Transportation Safety Action Plan
Chapter 9
Conceptual Design
Options
73
Item 3.
70 Columbia Heights, Minnesota
Conceptual Design Options
Within the High Injury Network, a select number of
intersections and segments were chosen for preliminary
analysis and conceptual design, shown in Figure 9� The
following pages contain conceptual design options that
illustrate potential treatments aimed at reducing crashes
and eliminating injuries or fatalities� All of these locations
have been identified for having a crash history and/or risk,
and most of these locations have also been flagged by
community members and stakeholders as being unsafe or
challenging to travel on�
Each page contains information on what the safety
issue(s) are at that location, a description of the potential
design treatment, a crash reduction score for each
treatment (if available) and a planning level cost estimate
in 2026 dollars� Most treatments have been illustrated
through a conceptual design layout which are also
shown� These layouts are representative of treatments
that could be deployed throughout the segments and at
intersections and additional analysis would be needed
before implementation (full layouts can be found in
Appendix E)� In the top right corner of each page is a
small map highlighting each project location�
Design treatments for each corridor and intersection
were identified based on a review of historic crash
patterns and existing roadway considerations like speed
limits, available rights of way, and network connectivity�
Many of these recommendations are aimed at a major
contributor to safety problems – speed – and seek to use
intersection controls, roadway alignments, and other tools
to encourage drivers to slow down when approaching
intersections with poor safety histories�
At many locations, multiple potential design treatments
are shown� The first design treatment is generally
expected to be the most powerful to address the safety
concerns present at each location� Additional treatments
shown may be possible short-term or interim solutions, or
may be ideas that may prove to be more feasible as more
detailed design is completed for each location�
The following list of segments and intersections are shown
on the following pages�
Segments
• Arthur Street (40th Avenue to 44th Avenue)
• 7th Street (40th Avenue to 53rd Avenue)
• 49th Avenue (4th to Jackson Street)
• 44th Avenue (4th Street to Quincy Street)
• Huset Parkway
• 37th Avenue (Huset Parkway to Van Buren Street)
• 45th Avenue/Arthur Street (Benjamin Street to
Arthur Street)
• Reservoir Boulevard (TH 65 to 44th Avenue
Intersections
• 42nd Avenue / Madison Street
• Reservoir Boulevard / 39th Avenue
• Reservoir Boulevard / 40th Avenue
• Reservoir Boulevard / 42nd Avenue
• TH 47 East Frontage Road / 53rd Avenue
• 42nd Avenue / 7th Street
• TH 47 East Frontage Road / 49th Avenue
• 50th Avenue / Jefferson Street
74
Item 3.
CONCEPTUAL DESIGN OPTIONS
71DRAFT Transportation Safety Action Plan
FIGURE 9. HIGH INJURY NETWORK AND DESIGN CONCEPT LOCATIONS
75
Item 3.
72 Columbia Heights, Minnesota
Safety Issues
There have been 10 angle crashes and 1 left-turn crash
that have occurred at intersections along this stretch of
roadway since 2014�
Proposed Design Treatment
The treatment for this segment includes adding curb
extensions at side streets along Arthur Street� Curb
extensions will narrow crossing distances for people
walking and rolling while making them more visible to
approaching vehicles� This treatment will also help to
reduce crashes at intersections as corners will become
sharper and will require slower speeds to turn safely�
Treatment Crash
Reduction
Planning-Level
Cost Estimate
($ in 2026)
1 Add curb
extensions at side
streets to narrow
crossing distances
N/A $2,900,000
Alternative Designs
2 Convert
intersections to all-way
stop (if warrented)
75% (of angle
crashes)Low Cost
3 Curb extensions /
chicanes N/A $4,300,000
TABLE 6. PROPOSED DESIGN
TREATMENTS AND IMPACTS
Arthur Street:
40 th Avenue to 44th Avenue
1 - Preferred Design
76
Item 3.
CONCEPTUAL DESIGN OPTIONS
73DRAFT Transportation Safety Action Plan
2 - Alternative Design
3 - Alternative Design
* Additional information on potential design treatments is available in the Safety Countermeasures Toolbox starting on Page 36�
77
Item 3.
74 Columbia Heights, Minnesota
Safety Issues
There have been 30 angle crashes that have occurred at
intersections along this stretch of roadway since 2014�
Proposed Design Treatment
The treatment for this segment includes adding curb
extensions at intersections� Curb extensions will narrow
crossing distances for people walking and rolling while
making them more visible to approaching vehicles� This
treatment, in addition to chicanes, will also help to reduce
crashes at intersections as corners will become sharper
and will require slower speeds to turn�
Treatment Crash
Reduction
Planning-Level
Cost Estimate
($ in 2026)
1 Curb extensions,
chicanes N/A $8,150,000
Alternative Designs
2 Convert
intersection to all-way
stop (if warrented)
75% (of angle
crashes)Low Cost
TABLE 7. PROPOSED DESIGN
TREATMENTS AND IMPACTS
7th Street:
40 th Avenue to 53rd Avenue
1 - Preferred Design
78
Item 3.
CONCEPTUAL DESIGN OPTIONS
75DRAFT Transportation Safety Action Plan
* Additional information on potential design treatments is available in the Safety Countermeasures Toolbox starting on Page 36�
2 - Alternative Design
79
Item 3.
76 Columbia Heights, Minnesota
Safety Issues
There have been 17 angle crashes that have occurred at
intersections along this stretch of roadway since 2014�
There have also been 7 crashes with parked motor
vehicles during that same timeframe�
Proposed Design Treatment
The treatment for this segment includes adding curb
extensions at intersections to reduce crashes by creating
sharper corners that encourage slower, safer turns�
Chicanes are also proposed to help calm traffic as
vehicles approach intersections� This is a County road, so
coordination with Anoka County will be required�
Treatment Planning-Level Cost
Estimate ($ in 2026)
Work with Valley View
Elementary School and
Columbia Academy to
move pick-up/drop-off
queues from 49th Ave
N/A
1 Curb extension and
chicanes $6,000,000
TABLE 8. PROPOSED DESIGN
TREATMENTS AND IMPACTS
* Additional information on potential design treatments is available in the Safety Countermeasures Toolbox starting on Page 36�
49 th Avenue:
4th Street to Jackson Street
1 - Preferred Design
80
Item 3.
CONCEPTUAL DESIGN OPTIONS
77DRAFT Transportation Safety Action Plan
Safety Issues
There have been 9 angle crashes and 1 left-turn crash
that have occurred at intersections along this stretch of
roadway since 2014� In addition, there are no walking or
biking facilities along the corridor�
Proposed Design Treatment
The proposed design on 44th Ave narrows the roadway
footprint by removing parking on both sides of the street�
The narrower road width provides space for the addition
of a shared use path along the south side of the road,
while also reducing pedestrian crossing distances over
44th Ave and slowing vehicles speeds�
Treatment Planning-Level Cost
Estimate ($ in 2026)
1 Narrow roadway by
removing parking and add
shared use path
N/A
Alternative Designs
2 Review sight lines at
intersection and remove
visual obstacles
N/A
3 Curb extension and
chicanes $2,500,000
TABLE 9. PROPOSED DESIGN
TREATMENTS AND IMPACTS
44th Avenue:
4th Street to Quincy Street
1 - Preferred Design
81
Item 3.
78 Columbia Heights, Minnesota
* Additional information on potential design treatments is available in the Safety Countermeasures Toolbox starting on Page 36�
3 - Alternative Design
2 - Alternative Design
82
Item 3.
CONCEPTUAL DESIGN OPTIONS
79DRAFT Transportation Safety Action Plan
Safety Issues
There have been 7 single vehicle crashes that have
occurred since 2014�
Proposed Design Treatment
Potential design treatments include raised pedestrian
crossings in areas of the Parkway with excess pavement�
These crossings support safer pedestrian movement while
also calming traffic� A sight line review is recommended
due to the curved roadway�
Treatment Planning-Level Cost
Estimate ($ in 2026)
1 Develop speed control
program including lane
width reductions, in areas
with on-street parking,
and raised pedestrian
crossings
$220,000
TABLE 10. PROPOSED DESIGN
TREATMENTS AND IMPACTS
Huset Parkway
* Additional information on potential design treatments is available in the Safety Countermeasures Toolbox starting on Page 36�
1 - Preferred Design
83
Item 3.
80 Columbia Heights, Minnesota
Safety Issues
There have been 12 angle crashes and 1 left-turn crash that
have occurred at intersections along the corridor since
2014�
Proposed Design Treatment
The treatment for this segment includes adding curb
extensions at intersections� Curb extensions will narrow
crossing distances for people walking and rolling while
making them more visible to approaching vehicles� This
treatment will also help to reduce crashes at intersections
as corners will become sharper and will require slower
speeds to turn�
Treatment Planning-Level Cost
Estimate ($ in 2026)
1 Develop speed
control program including
narrowing crossing
distances
$1,900,000
Alternative Design
2 Review sight lines at
intersection and remove
visual obstacles
N/A
TABLE 11. PROPOSED DESIGN
TREATMENTS AND IMPACTS
37th Avenue:
Huset Parkway to Van Buren Street
1 - Preferred Design
84
Item 3.
CONCEPTUAL DESIGN OPTIONS
81DRAFT Transportation Safety Action Plan
2 - Alternative Design
2 - Alternative Design
* Additional information on potential design treatments is available in the Safety Countermeasures Toolbox starting on Page 36�
85
Item 3.
82 Columbia Heights, Minnesota
ARTHUR ST NE
60
SCALE IN FEET
UPGRADE CHEVRON SIGNS
Arthur St NE
No Parking and Signage Upgrades
Safety Issues
There have been 6 single vehicle crashes that have
occurred at this intersection since 2014� Single vehicle
crashes are typically run-off the road incidents or
involving a stationary obstacle�
Proposed Design Treatment
Potential design treatments include upgrade curve
warning chevron signs to include blinking lights and
removing on-street parking to reduce objects in the
roadway along the curve� This would bring more attention
to the changing roadway conditions and narrowing the
roadway would encourage slower speeds�
Treatment Planning-Level Cost
Estimate
1 Upgrade curve warning
chevrons to have blinking
lights� Add additional
chevrons upstream (to the
north)� Consider removing
on-street parking in this
curve
N/A
Develop speed control
program (dynamic speed
display signs, etc�)
N/A
TABLE 12. PROPOSED DESIGN
TREATMENTS AND IMPACTS
45th Avenue / Arthur Street:
Benjamin Street to Arthur Street
* Additional information on potential design treatments is available in the Safety Countermeasures Toolbox starting on Page 36�
1 - Preferred Design
86
Item 3.
CONCEPTUAL DESIGN OPTIONS
83DRAFT Transportation Safety Action Plan
Safety Issues
There have been 15 single vehicle crashes that have
occurred at this intersection since 2014� Single vehicle
crashes are typically run-off the road incidents or
involving a stationary obstacle�
Proposed Design Treatment
The treatment for this segment includes adding curb
extensions at intersections� Curb extensions will narrow
crossing distances for people walking and rolling while
making them more visible to approaching vehicles� This
treatment will also help to reduce crashes at intersections
as corners will become sharper and will require slower
speeds to turn�
Treatment Planning-Level Cost
Estimate ($ in 2026)
1 Develop speed control
program� See intersection
recommendations
$2,300,000
Alternative Design
2 Review sight lines at
intersections (especially
skewed intersections) and
remove visual obstacles
N/A
TABLE 13. PROPOSED DESIGN
TREATMENTS AND IMPACTS
Reservoir Boulevard:
TH 65 to 44th Avenue
1 - Preferred Design
87
Item 3.
84 Columbia Heights, Minnesota
2 - Alternative Design
* Additional information on potential design treatments is available in the Safety Countermeasures Toolbox starting on Page 36�
88
Item 3.
CONCEPTUAL DESIGN OPTIONS
85DRAFT Transportation Safety Action Plan
Safety Issues
There have been 7 angle crashes that have occurred at
this intersection since 2014� The calculated crash rate is
above the critical rate�
Proposed Design Treatment
Potential design treatments include converting the
intersection to all-way stop� This would establish which
driver has the right-of-way and help pedestrians crossing
through the intersection�
TABLE 14. PROPOSED DESIGN
TREATMENTS AND IMPACTS
42nd Avenue / Madison Street
Treatment Crash
Reduction
Planning-Level
Cost Estimate
($ in 2026)
1 Convert to all-way
stop (if warrented)75%Low Cost
Alternative Designs
2 Convert to mini
roundabout 37%$941,000
3 Add stop bars and
increase stop sign size on
minor-street approaches
19%Low Cost
1 - Preferred Design
89
Item 3.
86 Columbia Heights, Minnesota
2 - Alternative Design
3 - Alternative Design
* Additional information on potential design treatments is available in the Safety Countermeasures Toolbox starting on Page 36�
90
Item 3.
CONCEPTUAL DESIGN OPTIONS
87DRAFT Transportation Safety Action Plan
Safety Issues
Modifying this intersection would help mitigate issues
associated with closely spaced intersections� The
intersection could also accommodate revised traffic flows
if the TH 65 and 37th Avenue intersection is reconfigured�
Proposed Design Treatment
Potential design treatments include adding curb
extension to the 39th Avenue approaches which would
increase visibility of other vehicles and pedestrians while
slowing traffic� Drivers would also need to make distinct
movements to continue along 39th Avenue NE, instead of
cutting across�
TABLE 15. PROPOSED DESIGN
TREATMENTS AND IMPACTS
Reservoir Boulevard / 39th Avenue
* Additional information on potential design treatments is available in the Safety Countermeasures Toolbox starting on Page 36�
Treatment Planning-Level Cost
Estimate ($ in 2026)
1 Add curb extensions
to 39th Avenue
approaches
$390,000
1 - Preferred Design
91
Item 3.
88 Columbia Heights, Minnesota
Safety Issues
Modifying this intersection would mitigate issues that
arise from the skewed intersection and provide a traffic
calming benefit� 4 of 10 crashes at this intersection have
resulted in minor or possible injuries�
Proposed Design Treatment
Potential design treatments include adding curb
extensions on obtuse angle approaches to narrow the
roadway� This will help slow drivers as they approach
the intersection and reduce crossing distances for
pedestrians�
TABLE 16. PROPOSED DESIGN
TREATMENTS AND IMPACTS
Reservoir Boulevard / 40th Avenue
Treatment Crash
Reduction
Planning-Level
Cost Estimate
($ in 2026)
1 Curb extensions
on obtuse angle
approaches
N/A $840,000
Alternative Design
2 Add stop bars
and increase stop
sign size on minor-
street approaches
19%Low Cost
1 - Preferred Design
92
Item 3.
CONCEPTUAL DESIGN OPTIONS
89DRAFT Transportation Safety Action Plan
2 - Alternative Design
* Additional information on potential design treatments is available in the Safety Countermeasures Toolbox starting on Page 36�
93
Item 3.
90 Columbia Heights, Minnesota
Safety Issues
Modifying this intersection would mitigate issues that
arise from the skewed intersection and provide a traffic
calming benefit� The crash rate at this intersection is
above the calculated critical crash rate�
Proposed Design Treatment
Potential design treatments include adding curb
extensions on Reservoir Boulevard and placing side street
stop bars further forward to improve visibility�
TABLE 17. PROPOSED DESIGN
TREATMENTS AND IMPACTS
Reservoir Boulevard / 42nd Avenue
* Additional information on potential design treatments is available in the Safety Countermeasures Toolbox starting on Page 36�
Treatment Crash
Reduction
Planning-Level
Cost Estimate
($ in 2026)
1 Curb extensions
on Reservoir, move
side stop bars
inward
N/A $540,000
1 - Preferred Design
94
Item 3.
CONCEPTUAL DESIGN OPTIONS
91DRAFT Transportation Safety Action Plan
Safety Issues
There have been 6 angle crashes that have occurred at
this intersection since 2014� The calculated crash rate is
above the critical rate�
Proposed Design Treatment
Potential design treatments include converting the
intersection to all-way stop� This would establish which
driver has the right-of-way and help pedestrians crossing
through the intersection�
TABLE 18. PROPOSED DESIGN
TREATMENTS AND IMPACTS
42nd Avenue / 7th Street
Treatment Crash
Reduction
Planning-Level
Cost Estimate
($ in 2026)
1 Convert to all-way
stop (if warrented)
75% (Of
angle
crashes)
Low Cost
Alternative Designs
2 Modified chicane /
curb extensions N/A $580,000
3 Add stop bars and
increase stop sign size on
minor-street approaches
19%Low Cost
1 - Preferred Design
95
Item 3.
92 Columbia Heights, Minnesota
2 - Alternative Design
3 - Alternative Design
* Additional information on potential design treatments is available in the Safety Countermeasures Toolbox starting on Page 36�
96
Item 3.
CONCEPTUAL DESIGN OPTIONS
93DRAFT Transportation Safety Action Plan
Safety Issues
There have been 4 angle crashes that have occurred at
this intersection since 2014� The calculated crash rate is
above the critical rate�
Proposed Design Treatment
Potential design treatments include converting the
intersection to all-way stop� This would establish which
driver has the right-of-way and help pedestrians crossing
through the intersection�
TABLE 19. PROPOSED DESIGN
TREATMENTS AND IMPACTS
50th Avenue / Jefferson Street
Treatment Crash
Reduction
Planning-Level
Cost Estimate
($ in 2026)
1 Convert to all-way
stop (if warrented)
75% (of
angle
crashes)
Low Cost
Alternative Designs
2 Modified chicane /
curb extensions N/A $670,000
3 Add stop bars and
increase stop sign size on
minor-street approaches
19%Low Cost
1 - Preferred Design
97
Item 3.
94 Columbia Heights, Minnesota
2 - Alternative Design
3 - Alternative Design
* Additional information on potential design treatments is available in the Safety Countermeasures Toolbox starting on Page 36�
98
Item 3.
95DRAFT Transportation Safety Action Plan
This page intentionally left blank�
99
Item 3.
96 Columbia Heights, Minnesota
Chapter 10
Policy and Progress
100
Item 3.
POLICY AND PROGRESS
97DRAFT Transportation Safety Action Plan
As outlined in Chapter 1, Columbia Heights has a solid
foundation of existing plans, policies, and community
priorities� Building on this, safer transportation requires
coordinated, sustained action� This section presents
policy recommendations across short-term (0–5 years),
mid-term (5–10 years), and ongoing timelines�
Grounded in frameworks like Vision Zero and SS4A,
these strategies (summarized in Table 22) align with
local goals and proven safety practices� Each action is
clear, measurable, and adaptable—ranging from pilot
projects and plan updates to improved coordination and
engagement�
Policy Recommendations
TABLE 20. POLICY RECOMMENDATIONS
Timing Action
Short-
Term
(0-5
years)
Apply for an SS4A Demonstration Grant for traffic calming pilots at 49th Ave NE & Jefferson St NE
Coordinate safety improvements through the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) process
Create a Fatal Crash Rapid Response Protocol (formalize interdepartmental coordination after severe
crashes to review causes and identify improvements)
Reinstate Traffic Commission with city staff, elected officials, and community members to guide traffic
safety policy and review resident concerns
Update traffic impact study guidelines
Update 2008 Pedestrian & Bicycle Mobility Plan to focus on filling key sidewalk gaps in the community
Mid-
Term
(5-10
years)
Develop a funding strategy and plan that identifies potential funding avenues and resources necessary to
construct future safety improvements
Inventory streetlights, assess intersection lighting needs, and update City's Streetlighting Policy�
Update/expand pavement management program
Update City’s ADA Transition Plan (2008)
Update/expand Safe Routes to School Plans for all schools within city limits
Ongoing
Publish annual safety reports at the end of each fiscal year reporting on the previous year’s progress
Provide quarterly safety updates to City Council and Planning Commission to maintain leadership support
Continue coordination with Anoka County and MnDOT to identify and make safety improvements on
county- and state-owned streets within Columbia Heights
Regularly conduct road safety audits, including walkability and bikeability assessments
Partner with local schools on educational safety campaigns
Conduct a full Transportation Safety Action Plan update every 5 years to formally refresh goals, data,
strategies, and the High Injury Network
101
Item 3.
98 Columbia Heights, Minnesota
To advance safety goals and maintain public trust, it is
essential to track, evaluate, and clearly communicate
progress in a transparent and systematic way� This chapter
presents a comprehensive framework for performance
measurement and public engagement, structured around
two key focus areas that support data-driven decision-
making, promote equitable outcomes, and encourage
sustained community involvement:
• Measuring Progress
• Transparency with the Community
Measuring Progress
Monitoring safety outcomes, infrastructure changes,
and policy implementation helps agencies assess what’s
working and where to adjust� This section outlines
strategies for collecting and analyzing data to track
progress toward Vision Zero and other safety goals� Table
23 summarizes these strategies, offering a framework
for measuring key metrics and guiding continuous
improvement�
Progress & Transparency
TABLE 21. STRATEGIES FOR MEASURING PROGRESS
Category Strategy Description
Data Analysis
Total number of serious injury and
fatal crashes Track overall crashes to measure baseline and progress
Percent change in serious injury and
fatal crashes Evaluate trends in crash reduction over time
Crash breakdowns by mode,
behavior, location, demographics Understand risk by user type, location, and equity factors
Crash equity analysis Identify disparities in crash outcomes across demographic
and geographic groups
Data
Maintenance
Crash, population, and equity data
updates
Ensure datasets are refreshed annually for consistent
evaluation
Pedestrian and bicycle counts/
surveys
Collect ongoing non-motorized user data to inform design
and evaluation
Infrastructure
Improvements at priority HIN
locations
Track number and types of improvements on prioritized
corridors and intersections
Miles of HIN corridors reconfigured Measure progress in safety-focused street design on High
Injury Network
Use of Safety Countermeasures
Toolkit
Track where countermeasures are used and their
effectiveness
Before–after safety evaluations Assess changes in crashes or behavior after countermeasure
implementation
Use of video/sensor analytics Pilot new methods to assess safety behavior (e�g�, near-
misses, compliance)
102
Item 3.
POLICY AND PROGRESS
99DRAFT Transportation Safety Action Plan
Category Strategy Description
Project and funding coordination
with Complete Streets and CIPs
Track integration of safety priorities into broader planning
and funding
Annual strategy and policy progress
check-in Informal but consistent check on plan implementation
Full plan update every 5 years Formal refresh of goals, data, and strategies
Transparency with the Community
Clear, consistent communication with the public and decision-makers builds trust and keeps safety efforts on track�
This section highlights key approaches for sharing progress and engaging the community, summarized in Table 24�
Category Strategy Description
Reporting &
Accessibility
Annual safety report publication Public-facing reports to document implementation and
outcomes
5-year crash and implementation
trend charts Show medium-term progress and trends in implementation
Online dashboard or interactive
map Public-facing visualization of progress and safety data
Community
Engagement &
Advocacy
Residents reached via engagement Measure scale and reach of public involvement efforts
Partnering with community
organizations
Track relationships and engagement with community-based
groups
Comment forms, surveys, open
feedback loops Maintain feedback systems to gather ongoing public input
Regular briefings to elected officials
and stakeholders
Monitor frequency and consistency of communications with
leadership
TABLE 22. STRATEGIES FOR TRANSPARENCY AND FUTURE ENGAGEMENT
103
Item 3.
104
Item 3.
Appendices
Appendix A - Plan Review Memo
Appendix B - HIN Characteristics Summary
Appendix C - Speed Limit Evaluation Memo
Appendix D - Scoring Methodology and Prioritized Intersections and Segments List
Appendix E - Segment and Intersection Conceptual Design Layouts
105
Item 3.
ITEM: Amending Alcohol Ordinance Restrictions in Silver Lake Beach Park
DEPARTMENT: Community Development BY/DATE: Mitchell Forney / June, 30, 2025
CORE CITY STRATEGIES:
_Healthy and Safe Community
_Equitable, Diverse, Inclusive, and Friendly
_Trusted and Engaged Leadership
XThriving and Vibrant Destination Community
_Strong Infrastructure and Public Services
_Sustainable
BACKGROUND:
In the past, local community organizations have hosted events such as Polar Plunges at Silver Lake Beach Park,
specifically on Silver Lake. Earlier this year, one of those organizations contacted city staff to explore the
possibility of continuing the event. Upon review, staff found that current City ordinance prohibits the
possession and consumption of alcohol at Silver Lake Beach Park. This prohibition is inconsistent with past
events and appears to be an outdated code provision that may warrant reconsideration.
Currently, Chapter 10.201, Section (O) of the City Code permits, with an affirmative vote of the City Council, a
variety of events to possess or consume intoxicating malt liquor in City parks between 8:00 a.m. and 9:30 p.m.
However, Silver Lake Beach Park is specifically excluded from this provision, as highlighted in the ordinance
language below. These regulations were established through Ordinance 866, which was adopted in 1977 . Staff
reviewed archived records but were unable to determine the original rationale for excluding Silver Lake Beach
Park.
The attached draft ordinance proposes removing the exclusion of Silver Lake Beach Park from Chapter 10.201,
Section (O). This amendment would align the park with the same requirements and opportunities as other City
parks. Any event wishing to possess or consume alcohol would still be required to obtain City Council approval
prior to the event.
Current Ordinance:
(O) No person shall have in their possession or consume any intoxicating liquor or non -intoxicating malt
liquor in or upon any city park, parkway, or bathing beach within the city.
(1) Provided, however, the City Council may by affirmative vote grant permission to persons attending
family gatherings, employees and their families attending gatherings in conjunction with their employment,
and persons attending gatherings of or gatherings sponsored by non-profit public service, charitable,
educational, or religious organizations within the community to possess and consume malt liquor in city parks,
except before 8:00 a.m. and after 9:30 p.m. No such permission may be granted for such possession or
consumption in or upon any public bathing beach or anywhere in Silver Lake Beach Park.
CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION MEETING
AGENDA SECTION WORK SESSION ITEM
MEETING DATE 07/07/2025
106
Item 4.
City of Columbia Heights - Council Letter Page 2
(2) The prohibitions of this division shall not apply on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, or legal holidays to
Huset Park between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 11:00 p.m., and shall not apply to John Murzyn Hall (Columbia
Heights Fieldhouse) at any time and shall not apply during City-sponsored events at any location.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommend moving forward with the draft ordinance.
ATTACHMENT(S):
Draft Ordinance
107
Item 4.
DRAFT ORDINANCE NO. XXXX
BEING AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 10.201 OF THE COLUMBIA HEIGHTS CITY CODE TO ALLOW,
UPON COUNCIL APPROVAL, ALCOHOL AT EVENTS WITHIN SILVER LAKE BEACH PARK
The City of Columbia Heights does ordain:
Section 1
10.201 section O of the Columbia Heights City Code is hereby amended to read as follows, to wit:
(O) No person shall have in their possession or consume any intoxicating liquor or non-intoxicating malt
liquor in or upon any city park, parkway, or bathing beach within the city.
(1) Provided, however, the City Council may by affirmative vote grant permission to persons
attending family gatherings, employees and their families attending gatherings in conjunction with their
employment, and persons attending gatherings of or gatherings sponsored by non-profit public service,
charitable, educational, or religious organizations within the community to possess and consume malt
liquor in city parks, except before 8:00 a.m. and after 9:30 p.m. No such permission may be granted for
such possession or consumption in or upon any public bathing beach or anywhere in Silver Lake Beach
Park.
(2) The prohibitions of this division shall not apply on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, or legal holidays
to Huset Park between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 11:00 p.m., and shall not apply to John Murzyn Hall
(Columbia Heights Fieldhouse) at any time and shall not apply during City-sponsored events at any
location.
108
Item 4.
Section 2
This ordinance shall be in full force and effective from and after 30 days after its passage.
First Reading:
Offered by:
Seconded by:
Roll Call:
Second Reading:
Offered by:
Seconded by:
Roll Call:
Date of Passage:
______________________________________
Amáda Márquez Simula, Mayor
Attest:
___________________________________
Sara Ion, City Clerk/Council Secretary
109
Item 4.
ITEM: Review 2025-2026 Strategic Plan
DEPARTMENT: Administration BY/DATE: City Manager / July 2, 2025
CORE CITY STRATEGIES: (please indicate areas that apply by adding an “X” in front of the selected text below)
_Healthy and Safe Community
_Equitable, Diverse, Inclusive, and Friendly
X Trusted and Engaged Leadership
_Thriving and Vibrant Destination Community
_Strong Infrastructure and Public Services
_Sustainable
BACKGROUND:
On April 22 and May 8, 2025, the Columbia Heights City Council and staff leadership held strategic planning
sessions to develop both long-term strategies and short-term goals for the organization in 2025 and 2026. The
sessions focused on two key areas of strategic planning: long-term vision and short-term goal setting. The
group explored the elements of the long-term vision, revisiting and updating strategy statements to define
that vision. Through discussions, participants reflected on strengths, challenges, potential threats, and
emerging opportunities. This process resulted in the brainstorming and development of potential short -term
goals. A prioritization process followed that provides a recommend priority ranking for these action items.
SUMMARY OF CURRENT STATUS:
Following review by the Council, staff intend to present the plan for formal adoption at the July 14 th regular
Council meeting.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Staff are seeking feedback from the Council before formal adoption of the plan.
ATTACHMENT(S):
2025 Strategic Plan Final Report (draft)
Environmental Scan
CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION MEETING
AGENDA SECTION WORK SESSION ITEM
MEETING DATE JULY 7, 2025
110
Item 5.
COLUMBIA HEIGHTS
STRATEGIC PLAN
MAY 202 5
111
Item 5.
2025 STRATEGIC PLAN 1
STRATEGIC PLAN
PROCESS
On April 22 and May 8, 2025, the Columbia Heights City Council and staff leadership held strategic
planning sessions to develop both long-term strategies and short-term goals for the organization in 2025.
The sessions focused on two key areas of strategic planning: long-term vision and short-term goal setting.
The group explored the elements of the long-term vision, revisiting and updating strategy statements to
define that vision. Through discussions, participants reflected on strengths, challenges, potential threats,
and emerging opportunities. This process resulted in the brainstorming and development of potential
short-term goals. A prioritization process followed that provides a recommend priority ranking for these
action items. The City Council will now review the outcomes of these session as part of adopting the 2025
Strategic Plan.
LONG TERM VISION
One of the primary outcomes of the Strategic Planning process is the development of a long -term vision.
The vision is a description of the future the participants see for the community and the organization, often
expressed in aspirational terms. The purpose of the vision is to establish a long-term direction that can be
communicated both within the community and the organization, providing all stakeholders with an
understanding of the leadership’s direction. The vision is communicated through a series of descriptive
and detailed organizational strategy statements, labeled core strategies. These statements can be both
the embodiment of the areas the organization values and the direction of its leadership. Accomplishing
progress on the core strategies will bring the organization closer to achieving its vision and provide the
areas in which more manageable, short-term goals can be derived.
Prior to the session, participants were asked to describe their hopes for the City and organization in the
year 2050. This activity resulted in a dream board result, a listing of characteristics and qualities that the
City Council . The participants then reviewed draft core strategies areas based on the input from this
activity as provided by the facilitator. The group refined the strategy areas by constructively working to
modify the strategic objectives that support each core strategy area. The strategies provide consistent and
stable organizational priorities for the years to come, and serve as organizational guideposts for day -to-
day action, policy formation, and program decision-making. It is anticipated that the core strategies may
be modified over the long-term, but generally all agreed as to the key priorities of the leadership team.
The core strategies are supported in this plan by strategic objectives. These objectives provide more
specific action areas that the City’s leadership team believes are integral to achieving success with the
core strategies. Each objective addresses an internal or external area of action or improvement. The
strategic objectives, combined with the core strategies, provide direction for all areas of leadership.
Following the presentation of draft core strategies and strategic objectives, the full group reviewed and
discussed the body of work and the group offered amendments to the proposed statements. Without
objection and subject to further modification prior to adoption, the group agreed to the following draft
core strategies and strategic objectives:
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Item 5.
2025 STRATEGIC PLAN 2
Core Strategies and Strategic Objectives
The City of Columbia Heights is committed to leading and guiding the City towards the following long-
term Core Strategies and Strategic Objectives:
1. A Community That Grows with Purpose and Equity
Columbia Heights will grow intentionally through vibrant, mixed -use development that supports
economic vitality, housing options for all, and the culture of our close-knit community.
Redevelopment will reflect community values and create long-term social and economic benefits
for residents and businesses.
Ensure the availability of a full range of housing options that support residents at every stage of
life and income level. This includes expanding affordable, workforce, market-rate, senior, and
specialized housing options to create a resilient, vibrant, and livable City for all.
Signature redevelopment projects will enhance identity, add vibrancy to corridors, and expand
business opportunity.
Land-use decisions will embrace density in the right places to support transit, walkability,
commercial viability, and safety.
Redevelopment will support a stronger tax base while complementing established
neighborhoods.
2. High-Quality Public Spaces for a Healthy and Sustainable Future
Create public spaces that are beautiful, active, and welcoming - designed with community input.
Prioritize health, connectivity, and sustainability to ensure spaces remain safe and functional.
Design spaces with fiscal responsibility that meet current needs while considering the needs of
future generations.
3. A City that is Safe, Accessible, and Built for Everyone
Columbia Heights will be a community where people of all abilities feel safe, supported, and free
to move by foot, bike, transit, or car.
Public Safety will be proactive, community-based, respectful to all, and professionally staffed.
Infrastructure decisions will utilize smart designs to prioritize safety, visibility, walkability, and
vibrant neighborhoods.
Investments in multimodal infrastructure and transit will connect people to opportunity.
A culture of shared responsibility between City staff and community members will ensure all
residents feel secure and respected.
4. Engaged, Effective, and Forward-Thinking Organization
City government will lead with equity, integrity, innovation, and excellence—ensuring responsive
service and smart stewardship of public resources.
Staff are committed to and invested in organizational success.
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Item 5.
2025 STRATEGIC PLAN 3
The organization, guided by a strategic plan, will invest in systems, technology, and staff to meet
evolving community needs.
Communication will be timely, transparent, and inclusive, designed to build trust in the
community.
Modernize internal processes that are flexible, effective, and outcome -driven.
Proactively support talent development and succession planning to ensure long-term
organizational strength.
5. A Resilient and Prosperous Economy
Columbia Heights will be a destination for businesses, entrepreneurs, and investment, supported
by economic diversity and long-term opportunity.
Commercial corridors will be active, attractive, and complementary to neighborhood identity.
Business development will support innovation, enhance job creation, create investment in the
community, and work towards easing reliance on residential property taxes.
Fiscal planning will balance affordability with the delivery of high-quality public services.
Infrastructure and connectivity will support business success and community access.
6. An Inclusive and Connected Community Where Everyone is Welcome
Columbia Heights will celebrate and embrace its diversity, encourage participation, and foster
strong relationships between neighbors, businesses, city staff, Council, and organizations.
The entire community will have access to information, services, and engagement opportunities
that reflect our cultural and linguistic diversity.
Boards, Commissions, and City leadership will reflect our community.
Create pathways to civic involvement and leadership for youth and underrepresented groups.
Encourage connection through community events, programs, and outreach.
Community members will feel welcomed, heard, and empowered to shape the future of the City.
ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESS MENT
As the session moved into the short-term actions phase, a key activity was conducting an environmental
scan of the City and organization. This scan aimed to assess both the external (community) and internal
(organization) environments from multiple perspectives. Throughout the work session, participants were
regularly prompted with questions to guide their analysis of Columbia Heights's strengths, challenges,
and emerging trends. These discussions were conducted in small groups and presented to the whole,
where participants explored issues and opportunities facing the City in the years ahead. The insights
gained from this environmental scan formed the foundation for developing the organization's goals later
in the session.
The questions posed throughout the session included the following:
What do you most appreciate about the City of Columbia Heights?
What is going well? What are areas of momentum within the City?
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Item 5.
2025 STRATEGIC PLAN 4
What challenges are you facing or see coming?
What trends/opportunities do you see coming?
What threats could be on the horizon?
These questions and discussions helped frame the present status of the City and the organization, setting
the stage for goal setting to meet the challenges and opportunities in a fashion consistent with the City’s
long-term vision.
Participants highlighted significant momentum across multiple fronts. Notable achievements include
strides in language inclusiveness, technological modernization such as the Tyler system rollout, and
enhanced communications and outreach efforts. The organization is supported by a fully staffed and
professional team in several departments, marked by high engagement, interdepartmental collaboration,
and strong civic involvement. Modernized facilities, successful code enforcement, and a safe community
underscore operational effectiveness. Relationships with key partners like MnDOT and the County, along
with a forward-thinking “YES” culture, reflect both adaptability and a commitment to leadership
development and innovation.
However, the City faces a variety of challenges that require strategic attention. Key internal hurdles include
recruitment and retention pressures, anticipated staff retirement s, and keeping pace with the employment
market. Financial constraints tied to a limited residential tax base make it difficult to meet growi ng
infrastructure and facility needs, such as Murzyn Hall and other aging public assets. Externally,
communication with a diverse community remains complex due to language barriers and a digital divide.
The balancing act between foundational needs and visionary projects, as well as the need for clearer goal
tracking and prioritization, highlight the importance of disciplined project management and inclusive
engagement.
Looking ahead, the City has a robust landscape of opportunities and trends that can be leveraged.
Population and school enrollment growth, strategic redevelopment prospects, and enhanced connectivity
through fiber and transit investments all position the community for long-term vitality. Trends such as
increased community connection, environmental focus, and hybrid workspaces align well with evolving
civic and economic values. However, broader threats—ranging from state and federal funding
uncertainties to labor market shifts, economic volatility, and political instability—pose risks to sustained
progress. Thoughtful planning, adaptive leadership, and continued community trust will be essential to
navigate these complexities and capitalize on emerging opportunities.
This scan reveals a city with strong fundamentals, evolving needs, and many strategic levers to guide its
future. Building on momentum while thoughtfully responding to risks and opportunities will be key to
Columbia Heights’s continued success.
SHORT -TERM GOALS
The next portion of the Strategic Planning process was to develop a short-term goals platform and
workplan to guide the organization in the coming years. Participants were offered the opportunity to
present draft goals that addressed any of the following objectives - short-term actions that lead to a core
strategy or strategic objective, goals to address weaknesses, opportunities, or potential impacts discussed
during the assessment process, or other goals that individual members viewed to be important for the
City. The process encouraged the brainstorming of SMART goals - specific, measurable, attainable,
relevant, and time-bound (2-3 years) - and objectives that would support the core strategies and vision.
115
Item 5.
2025 STRATEGIC PLAN 5
Following the brainstorming process, a prioritization process was used to develop the following list of
high priority and opportunity goals. Participants were given the ability to choose a limited number of
brainstormed goals as their top priorities. As each participant’s choices were collected, the draft goals
were bunched into two categories. The categories and prioritization followed these guidelines:
High Priority Goals - goals that were identified by at least three members of the Council and are
the primary focus of the organization over the next two years.
Opportunity Goals - goals that were identified as a priority that should be pursued as
opportunities present themselves.
Proposed 2025-26 Short-Term Goals
High Priority - goals that are the top priority of the organization in the coming two-year period.
1. Develop a Financial Plan for major projects, including timeline for construction of Muni Services
Building that encapsulates all funding scenarios (
2. Develop a campaign to support businesses during Central Ave construction
o Create a “Survival kit”
o Active engagement in campaign
o Get feedback
3. Complete Road Zone Program/Safe Streets for All Plan
o Including a funding plan for short-term projects and complete alley replacement
4. Conduct staffing study and develop plan for updating personnel policies and programs for
retention
5. Develop a new Parks Master Plan
6. Create a public art plan for the purpose of developing sense of place through art, plantings, and
design.
7. Develop a climate action plan
o GreenStep 3 (purchasing guidelines)
o Partners in Energy
8. Develop tenant protection policies and ordinances
Opportunity - goals that have organizational support, to be pursued when opportunity is available.
9. Create partnerships with post-secondary and trade schools to create internships/apprenticeships
in trades with the goal of recruiting locally and leading to increased full-time employment
10. Fully establish Code Enforcement system
11. Better strengthen bond, increase engagement, and explore partnerships with between businesses
and City events
12. Review Zoning Code and reform to meet housing needs
NEXT STEPS
The next step in the goal-setting process is to develop action plans for each short-term goal and
establish benchmarks to measure progress. A key recommendation is identifying measurable outcomes
to evaluate the City’s success in achieving each goal. These benchmarks will also help guide the creation
of action plans to reach desired results. It’s important to revisit the goals periodically to hold both the
116
Item 5.
2025 STRATEGIC PLAN 6
Council and staff accountable. Additionally, integrating these goals into the organization’s processes will
further drive success. It was a pleasure working with Columbia Heights again to assist your team in
establishing a strategic plan for the years ahead.
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Item 5.
Environmental Scan
Things Going Well / Areas of Momentum
Language inclusiveness efforts
Technology modernization and implementation (e.g., Tyler system)
Great, responsive, and engaged staff
Full staffing in some departments
Productive, adaptive, and professional team
Strong community and civic engagement (events, boards, commissions)
Communications and outreach improvement
Modern city facilities (City Hall, Library, Public Safety)
Code enforcement success
Safe community
Diversity and small-city connections
Interdepartmental collaboration
Community policing and mental health initiatives
Collaboration with large stakeholders (MnDOT, County, etc.)
Council and staff trust/alignment
Infrastructure planning efforts
“YES” City mindset – openness to trying new ideas
Business engagement and support
Leadership development
Challenges
Communication with diverse residents (language barriers, digital divide, cross-
cultural communication)
Staffing, hiring, and retention (including retirements and turnover)
Public Works and facility-related concerns (e.g., Murzyn Hall, aging buildings)
Financial constraints and available funding
Limited tax base (predominantly residential)
Macro-economic environment impacting development
Business process improvement
Resistance to change and legacy barriers
Long-term population growth and housing needs
Maintaining housing stock and managing densification
Developing and maintaining public spaces
Streamlining internal processes
Balancing infrastructure needs vs. wants
Keeping track of goals/timelines
Ensuring inclusion and community buy-in
Prioritization of projects (basics before big dreams)
118
Item 5.
Opportunities / Trends
Student growth / school enrollment
Developing new relationships
Development opportunities (Rainbow, Medtronic, housing, etc.)
Fiber connection
Partners in energy/efficiency
Soccer (relationships)
AI
Focus on mental health
Hybrid workspace
Central reconstruction
Large developments
Large community likes
Council and staff cohesive
Invested staff / promotions
Cost of housing – affordable
City support from residents
Communications outward
Central Ave redesign
Good housing options for all
Quality schools
Community connectivity
Business migration – Affordable space / incubator
Strategic redevelopment (sites: Rainbow, Medtronic, Root)
Talent retention
Environmental focus – supported by community
Technological advancements
Large-scale redevelopments
Trending toward increased community connection
Physical location of city – connection to Mpls + Metro
Central redevelopment → increased transit
Investing in staff – desirable place to work with growth opportunities
Diversity + meeting those needs
Threats
State budget
Labor market
Economic instability
Potential elimination of social safety net
Possible recession
Climate change
AI
$
Current economic climate
Push and pull of community desires vs. needs
119
Item 5.
Staff change / election
Staff retiring / leaving
Residential tax base / community wants
Trust from residents
Current/future state economic climate
Federal funding cuts / regional impact / 2nd tier impacts
Recession
Decline of civility
Global economy’s effect on large-scale projects and priorities (Rainbow, Central
Ave, MSC, parks redevelopment)
Mental health concerns
Unsure economic climate
Political instability
o Immigration changes
o Loss of tax-exempt bonds
Reduced trust in government / decorum
Limited space for commercial development
Threat to businesses on Central during construction
Delays in major projects
Unforeseen / accelerated timeline expenditures (PW)
Short-Term Goals
1. Develop a Financial Plan for major projects, including timeline for
construction of Muni Services Building that encapsulates all funding
scenarios (5, 8)
2. Develop a campaign to support businesses during Central Ave construction
(4, 6)
o Create a “Survival kit”
o Active engagement in campaign
o Get feedback
3. Complete Road Zone Program/Safe Streets for All Plan (4, 4)
o Including a funding plan for short-term projects and complete alley
replacement
4. Conduct staffing study and develop plan for updating personnel policies and
programs for retention (3, 9)
5. Develop a new Parks Master Plan (3, 8)
6. Create a public art plan for the purpose of developing sense of place through
art, plantings, and design. (3, 5)
7. Develop a climate action plan (3, 2)
o GreenStep 3 (purchasing guidelines)
o Partners in Energy
8. Develop tenant protection policies and ordinances (3, 2)
9. Create partnerships with post-secondary and trade schools to create
internships/apprenticeships in trades with the goal of recruiting locally and
leading to increased full-time employment (2, 6)
10. Fully establish Code Enforcement system (2, 6)
120
Item 5.
11. Better strengthen bond, increase engagement, and explore partnerships with
between businesses and City events (2, 3)
12. Review Zoning Code and reform to meet housing needs (2, 1)
13. Build soccer field (1, 3)
14. Finalize Central Avenue design (1, 3)
15. Develop policy or system to increase transparency of resources allocated to
organizational partnerships (1, 2)
16. Evaluate hiring practices and procedures to better match talent and diversity
of applicants (0, 5)
17. Start planning for Murzyn Hall (1, 2)
18. Finalize franchise fees & implement (0, 3)
19. Finalize the Tyler rollout and integration into organization processes (0, 5)
20. Secure revenue source for Downtown parking (0, 3)
21. Continue to expand strategy & implementation of candidate recruitment for
Boards & Commissions to reflect diversity of community (0, 1)
121
Item 5.
ITEM: Discuss Options for 2026 Legal Services Contract
DEPARTMENT: Administration BY/DATE: City Manager / July 1, 2025
CORE CITY STRATEGIES: (please indicate areas that apply by adding an “X” in front of the selected text below)
_Healthy and Safe Community
_Equitable, Diverse, Inclusive, and Friendly
X Trusted and Engaged Leadership
_Thriving and Vibrant Destination Community
_Strong Infrastructure and Public Services
_Sustainable
BACKGROUND:
As part of the 2026 budgeting process, staff would like to discuss renewal options for the City’s retained legal
services. Since 1994, the City has retained the legal services of the law firm Barna, Guzy, and Steffen, Ltd
(BGS). BGS provides retained services for general counsel and prosecution services for the City. BGS has
represented the City on a wide array of municipal matters and their work also includes non-retainer services
related to labor contracts and real estate transactions. Non-retainer work is billed hourly. Over the years, the
base contract fees for service and hourly rates have risen with inflation at a nominal rate. In conversation with
City Attorney Scott Lepak, BGS has proposed modest increases to the contract for services in 2026.
SUMMARY OF CURRENT STATUS:
The current contract with BGS has no specified term limit, it was drafted to allow the City and BGS to
renegotiate pricing year-to-year. The table below outlines current fees and proposed fees for 2026.
Prosecution Retainer Civil Retainer (general) Non-retainer Work
Current Rates $9,318/month $4,209/month $150/hr
2026 Proposed Rates $9,691/month $4,380/month $175/hr
NEXT STEPS:
Currently, there are two primary paths forward:
Option 1: Renegotiate with the BGS for contract services in 2026
This option would authorize staff to enter negotiations with BGS for a 2026 contract renewal.
Pros:
Maintains continuity of legal operations
Leverages the firm’s institutional knowledge of City policies, history, and ongoing legal matters
Preserves existing relationships and efficient communication channels
Avoid disruption and onboarding delays
CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION MEETING
AGENDA SECTION WORK SESSION ITEM
MEETING DATE JULY 7, 2025
122
Item 6.
City of Columbia Heights - Council Letter Page 2
Cons:
The City may miss out on competitive pricing or new service models
Option 2: Issue a Request for Proposals (RFP) for Legal Services
This option would open the legal services contract to a competitive procurement process, allowing for the
solicitation of qualifications and cost proposals from other firms.
Pros:
Provides transparency and competitive pricing
Allows the City to assess the capabilities of a broader pool of providers
May lead to potential cost savings
Cons:
Time-intensive process that could take several months to complete
Transition to a new firm could disrupt ongoing legal matters and require onboarding time
Loss of continuity and institutional knowledge
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Over the past year, BGS has demonstrated as strong understanding of the City’s needs and priorities, having
handled matters ranging from land-use disputes and contracts to employment matters and litigation with
professionalism and consistency. This familiarity reduces the time and cost associated with legal review and
enables quicker, more informed responses to emerging legal issues.
In addition, the City is currently managing several ongoing legal matters and projects that would benefit from
continuity in representation. Transitioning to a new firm would require significant staff time to transfer
knowledge, review open cases, and reestablish attorney-client communication.
For these reasons, staff believe that the benefits of retaining BGS warrant strong consideration of the contract
renegotiation option as the most effective course of action. If cost or performance concerns arise during the
next year, the City retains the option to pu rsue an RFP in 2027.
ATTACHMENT(S):
Barna Guzy Memo with Comparison Cities and 2026 Pricing
Barna Guzy Draft 2026 Contracts
1994 BGS Contract
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Item 6.
ITEM: Information Regarding Sister City Committee and City of Columbia Heights Partnership.
DEPARTMENT: Administration BY/DATE: Aaron Chirpich, June 24, 2025
CORE CITY STRATEGIES: (please indicate areas that apply by adding an “X” in front of the selected text below)
_Healthy and Safe Community
X Equitable, Diverse, Inclusive, and Friendly
X Trusted and Engaged Leadership
_Thriving and Vibrant Destination Community
_Strong Infrastructure and Public Services
_Sustainable
BACKGROUND:
Council requested information regarding the partnership between the Sister Cities Committee (Lomianki,
Poland) and the City of Columbia Heights.
SUMMARY OF CURRENT STATUS:
In 1991, Columbia Heights received an agreement from Lomianki, Poland, that they would be proud to partner
with our City. The Sister Cities Committee was established, and the members of the committee are dedicated
to furthering this international friendship by promoting humanitarian, educational, cultural, civic and social
events. The organization has ten meetings per year that are open to the public and raise their own funds. The
City aids the Committee by paying annual dues of $440.00 to Sister City International Headquarters and by
providing a staff liaison to assist with meeting logistics, access to the Central Place room, use of technology,
printing copies of the monthly agenda / financial statements, providing mailing envelopes and other printing
support as needed.
ATTACHMENT(S):
2025 Sister Cities International Membership Invoice
2024 Sister Cities International Membership Invoice
CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION MEETING
AGENDA SECTION WORK SESSION ITEM
MEETING DATE JULY 7, 2025
155
Item 7.
DATE:12/28/2023
Membership Period 2/1/2024-1/31/2025
Invoice Number 12303
1012 14th Street NW, Suite 1400
Washington, DC 20005
(202) 347-8632
www.sistercities.org
BILL TO:
Columbia Heights Sister Cities
Columbia Heights, Minnesota
AMOUNT
440.00
SUBTOTAL 440.00$
OTHER -$
TOTAL 440.00$
INVOICE
DESCRIPTION
2024 Membership Dues (Population:10,000-25,000)
Online payments can be made through the "Pay Dues" button on the SCI website or
through the Membership Portal if you have a current login. Please make checks
payable to "Sister Cities International" and mail to the SCI address shown above.
If you have any questions about this invoice, please email
amanuel@sistercities.org.
156
Item 7.
From:Sister Cities International (SCI)
To:Sara Ion
Subject:Thank you for your payment.
Date:Tuesday, November 26, 2024 2:13:25 PM
Thank you for your payment to Sister Cities International!
Here are your payment details:
Are you paying Membership Dues or Program Dues?
Membership Dues
Membership Payment
$440.00
SCI Membership City Name
Columbia Heights Sister Cities
Select your Payment Method
Credit Card
Cardholder
Sara Ion
Email for invoice
157
Item 7.
sion@columbiaheightsmn.gov
Credit Card Information
xxxx xxxx xxxx 9714
Mastercard
You will be charged
$440.00
Timestamp
11/26/2024 15:10:39
Remember that you will receive another email with the invoice from
the payment provider, in your case Stripe.
If you have any questions, please email us info@sistercities.org.
Sent from Sister Cities International (SCI)
158
Item 7.
DATE:11/1/2024
Membership Period 2/1/25-1/31/26
1012 14th Street NW, Suite 1400 Invoice Number 25174
Washington, DC 20005
(202) 347-8630
BILL TO:
City of Columbia Heights
Columbia Heights, Minnesota
AMOUNT
440.00
SUBTOTAL 440.00$
OTHER -$
TOTAL 440.00$
Sister Cities International INVOICE
DESCRIPTION
2025 Membership Dues (Population: 10,000-25,000)
If you have any questions about this invoice, please email
amanuel@sistercities.org.
Online payments can be made through the "Pay Dues" button on the SCI website or through
the Membership Portal. Please make checks payable to "Sister Cities International" and mail to
the SCI address shown above.
159
Item 7.
ITEM: Council Corner.
DEPARTMENT: Admin BY/DATE: July 1, 2025
CORE CITY STRATEGIES: (please indicate areas that apply by adding an “X” in front of the selected text below)
_Healthy and Safe Community
_Equitable, Diverse, Inclusive, and Friendly
X Trusted and Engaged Leadership
_Thriving and Vibrant Destination Community
_Strong Infrastructure and Public Services
_Sustainable
July Council Corner Items:
Monthly Calendar Sharing
Monthly Event Notification, Attendance and Past Event Updates
Monthly Proclamations and Meeting Guests
Discussion Items Suggested by Mayor and Council:
2026 Conference Attendance for Council.
Political Party Participation at Art and Info Fair.
COPAL Resolution.
Municipal Cannabis.
ATTACHMENT(S):
City of Columbia Heights Website Calendar
City of Columbia Heights Monthly Council Event Calendar
Mayoral Proclamation List
COPAL Resolution (draft)
CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION MEETING
AGENDA SECTION WORK SESSION ITEM
MEETING DATE JULY 7, 2025
160
Item 8.
CALENDAR
Disclaimer: Events published on the City Council calendar are intended solely for the purpose of providing the public with general information about meetings
and events to which the Mayor & City Council have been invited. The Mayor & City Council Members may not be in attendance at all of the meetings and
events listed on the calendar. Please note, this is not the of cial calendar of the City. The of cial city calendar is maintained by the City Clerk and posted inside
the entrance of City Hall.
July 2025
Export
Calendars
Search for Events...
week day listmonth
Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat
1 2 3 4 52930
10a Pancake Breakfast - C 6p City Council & School 6p Planning Commission 5:30p Library Board - Can City Of ces Closed - Inde
12p Jamboree 6:30p Music in the Park -
6 7 8 9 10 11 12
5p EDA Meeting 6p Sustainability Commis
6p City Council Work Ses
13 14 15 16 17 18 19
6p City Council Meeting 6:30p Music in the Park - 7p Charter Commission
20 21 22 23 24 25 26
6p Park & Recreation Com
27 28 29 30 31 1 2
6p City Council Meeting 5p CHPD Eat & Greet at
3 4 5 6 7 8 9
5p EDA Meeting 5p National Night Out 5:30p Library Board
6p City Council Work Ses 6p Planning Commission
6:30p Music in the Park -
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Item 8.
1 6/30/2025 2:59 PMCity Council Meetings and Events
Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa
12345678910111213 14 15 16 17 18 1920 21 22 23 24 25 2627 28 29 30 31
July 2025
Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa
12345678910 11 12 13 14 15 1617 18 19 20 21 22 2324 25 26 27 28 29 3031
August 2025July 2025
Jun 29 30 Jul 1 2 3 4 5
6:00pm Planning
Commission - City
Hall - City Meetings
5:30pm Library Board -
Public Library - City
Meetings
6:30pm Music in the
Park
6 7 8 9 10 11 12
5:00pm EDA Meeting -
City Hall - City
Meetings
6:00pm City Council
Work Session - City
Hall - City Meetings
6:00pm Sustainability
Commission - City
Hall - City Meetings
13 14 15 16 17 18 19
6:00pm City Council
Meeting - City Hall -
City Meetings
6:30pm Music in the
Park
20 21 22 23 24 25 26
6:00pm Parks and
Recreation
Commission - City
Hall - City Meetings
27 28 29 30 31 Aug 1 2
6:00pm City Council
Meeting - City
Council Chambers -
City Council Meetings
and Events
SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY
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Item 8.
MAYORAL PROCLAMATIONS / DECLARATIONS ISSUED 2017 - CURRENT
2025
January 20, MLK Day 1/13/2025
February 1 World Hijab Day 1/27/2025
February Black History Month 1/27/2025
February 13, Racial Covenant 1/27/2025
March 3-7, School Breakfast Week 2/24/2025
March Developments Disability Awareness Month 2/24/2025
March 8, Int. Women’s Day & Women’s History Month 2/24/2025
March 31, Trans Day of Visibility 3/24/2025
April Fair Housing Month 3/24/2025
April 6-12, National Library Week 3/24/2025
April 22, Earth Day 4/14/2025
April 25 Arbor Day and May Arbor Month 4/14/2025
April Autism Acceptance Month 4/14/2025
April Volunteer Month 4/14/2025
May, Asian and Pacific Islander Month 4/28/2025
May 11-17, Police Week 5/12/2025
May 19-24, Public Works Week 5/12/2025
May Foster Care Awareness 5/27/2025
May, Menstrual Hygiene 5/27/2025
June 6, Gun Violence Awareness 5/27/2025
June Pride Month 6/09/2025
June Immigrant Heritage Month 6/09/2025
June 19, Juneteenth 6/09/2025
July 1: Somali American Day 6/23/2025
Meditation Center 10th Anniversary 7/14/2025
Dahli Lama 90th Birthday 7/14/2025
July 26, Disability Independence Day Proposed 7/14/2025
August 3, International Day of Friendship Proposed 7/28/2025
August 4, Assistance Dog Day Proposed 7/28/2025
August 5, National Night Out Proclamation Proposed 7/28/2025
August, 14 Monarch Butterfly Day / Monarch Fest Proposed 8/11/2025
August 21: Senior Citizen Day Proposed 8/11/2025
September National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month Proposed 8/25/205
September, Hunger Action Month Proposed 8/25/2025
September 17-23, Constitution Week Proposed 9/8/2024
September 13, Columbia Heights Pride Proposed 9/8/2025
September 15-October 15: Latine Heritage Month Proposed 9/22/2025
September 21, 2024, 1944 Warsaw Uprising
US Airlift Day of Remembrance Proposed Not to Continue One Time
Event
164
Item 8.
MAYORAL PROCLAMATIONS / DECLARATIONS ISSUED 2017 - CURRENT
October 2025, Pedestrian Safety Month (Walktober) Proposed 9/22/2025
October 2025, Polish American Heritage Month Proposed 9/22/2025
October2025, Domestic Violence Awareness Month Proposed 9/22/2025
October 13, Indigenous Peoples’ Day Proposed 10/13/2025
October, National Breast Cancer Awareness Month Proposed 10/13/2025
October, Domestic Violence Awareness Month Proposed 10/13/2025
November, National Homelessness Awareness Month Proposed 10/27/2025
November: National Native American Heritage Month,
National Native American Heritage Day Proposed 10/27/2025
November 11: Veterans Day Proposed 11/10/2025
November 25, Happy Holidays Proposed 11/24/2025
December 10, Universal Declaration of Human Rights Proposed 12/8/2025
2024
February 1: World Hijab Day 2/12/2024
February: Black History Month 2/12/2024
April 7-13, 2024: National Library Week 3/25/2024
April: Fair Housing Month 4/08/2024
April 22: Earth Day 4/22/2024
May: ALS Awareness Month 5/28/2024
May: Arbor Day and Month 5/28/2024
May: National Cities, Towns, and Villages Month 5/28/2024
May 19-25: National Public Works Week 5/28/2024
June 7: National Gun Violence Awareness Day 6/10/2024
June: Pride Month 6/10/2024
June 19: Juneteenth 6/10/2024
July 1: Somali American Day 6/24/2024
July 22, 2024: Fern Ostberg Birthday 7/22/2024
July 22, 2024: MN State Flag posting 7/22/2024
August 4, 2024: Assistance Dog Day 7/22/2024
August 6: National Night Out 7/22/2024
August 8, 2024: Monarch Butterfly Day 8/12/2024
August 21: Senior Citizen Day 8/12/2024
September: National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month 8/26/2024
September 17-23: Constitution Week 9/9/2024
September 2024: Hunger Action Month 9/9/2024
September 15-October 15: Latine Heritage Month 9/9/2024
September 21, 2024: 1944 Warsaw Uprising
US Airlift Day of Remembrance 9/9/2024
September 21, 2024: Columbia Heights Pride Day 9/9/2024
October 2024: Pedestrian Safety Month (Walktober) 9/23/2024
165
Item 8.
MAYORAL PROCLAMATIONS / DECLARATIONS ISSUED 2017 - CURRENT
October 2024: Polish American Heritage Month 9/23/2024
October 14, 2024: Indigenous Peoples’ Day 10/14/2024
October: National Breast Cancer Awareness Month 10/14/2024
October: Domestic Violence Awareness Month 10/14/2024
November: National Homeless Youth Awareness Month 10/28/2024
November: National Homelessness Awareness Month 11/12/2024
November: National Native American Heritage Month,
National Native American Heritage Day 11/12/2024
November 11: Veterans Day 11/12/2024
November 25, Happy Holidays 11/25/2024
December 10, Universal Declaration of Human Rights 12/9/2024
December 20, 2024: Terchen Taksham Rinpoche Day 10/2/2024
2023
January Plant Milkweed Month 12/12/22
Jan 16, MLK Day 1/09/23
February Black History Month 1/23/23
March Developmental Disability Month 2/27/23
March 8, International Women’s Day 2/27/23
Ramadan Month 3/27/23
April Earth Day 3/27/23
April 13, Kelli Bourgeois Day 4/10/23
April Library Week 4/24/23
April Arbor Day 4/24/23
April Fair Housing Month 4/24/23
April National Public Works Week 4/24/23
May Asian and Pacific Islander Month 4/24/23
May 28, Menstrual Hygiene Day 5/22/23
May Police Week 5/22/23
May Public Works Week 5/22/23
June Immigrant Heritage Month 5/22/23
June 2, Gun Violence Awareness 5/22/23
July 1, Somali American Day 6/26/23
July 1, Sister City Galdogob Somalia 6/26/23
International Day of Friendship 7/24/23
September Suicide Prevention 8/24/23
September Constitution Week 9/11/23
September Hispanic Heritage Month 9/11/23
September 23, CHC Pride Day 9/23/23 (not at a meeting)
October 9, Indigenous People Day 10/09/23
October Polish American Heritage 10/09/23
166
Item 8.
MAYORAL PROCLAMATIONS / DECLARATIONS ISSUED 2017 - CURRENT
October Pedestrian Safety 10/23/23
November 11, Veterans Day 10/23/23
December 8, ICC Church Day (100th Ann) 11/27/23
2022
2022 Climate Awareness Year 1/24/22
Jan 27 Holocaust Day of Remembrance 1/24/22
January Health Care Month 1/24/22
February Black History Month 1/24/22
February 8, Dolores Strand Day 2/08/22
March Women’s History Month 2/28/22
April Library Week 3/28/22
April Arbor Day 4/25/22
April Earth Day 4/25/22
April Fair Housing Month 4/25/22
April National Public Works Week 4/25/22
May Menstrual Hygiene Day 5/23/22
May Asian and Pacific Islander Month 5/23/22
May Police Week 5/23/22
July 26, ADA Day 7/25/22
August National Black Business Month 7/25/22
August Outstanding Business Commendation 7/25/22
August National Night Out 7/25/22
September Childhood Cancer Awareness 8/22/22
September Constitution Week 8/22/22
September Hispanic Heritage Month 9/26/22
September Library Card Sign Up Month 9/26/22
September National Recovery Month 9/26/22
October Domestic Violence Month 9/26/22
October Polish American Heritage Month 9/26/22
November Native American Heritage Month 10/24/22
November Todd Estrem Day 10/24/22
December 23, Asia Chow Mein Day 12/12/22
2021
Tibet Day Proclamation 3/10/21
Arbor Day Proclamation 4/26/21
National Library Week Proclamation 4/26/21
Native American Land Acknowledgement 5/10/21
Police Week Proclamation 5/10/21
167
Item 8.
MAYORAL PROCLAMATIONS / DECLARATIONS ISSUED 2017 - CURRENT
Somali American Day Proclamation 7/01/21
CH Centennial Day Proclamation 7/12/21
Oromo Week Proclamation 7/26/21
National Night Out Proclamation 7/26/21
Mayors Monarch Pledge Month 9/13/21
Suicide Prevention Awareness Month 9/13/21
Hispanic Heritage Month 9/13/21
Constitution Week Proclamation 9/13/21
Domestic Violence Month 9/27/21
Pride Day Proclamation 9/27/21
Polish American Heritage Month 9/27/21
Native American Heritage Month 11/22/21
2020
Mayoral Declaration re Covid-19 Emergency 3/20/20
Police Week Proclamation 5/11/20
National Public Works Week Proclamation 5/23/20
Domestic Violence Month 9/28/20
Constitution Week Proclamation 9/14/20
Polish American Heritage Month 10/12/20
2019
Tibet Day Proclamation 2/25/19
Census 2020 Proclamation 3/25/19
Arbor Day Proclamation 4/8/19
National Library Week Proclamation 4/8/19
National Public Works Week Proclamation 5/13/19
Police Week Proclamation 5/13/19
Outstanding Citizen Proclamation 6/10/19
Orono Week Proclamation 08/03/19
National Night Out Proclamation 8/06/19
Domestic Violence Month 9/09/19
Constitution Week Proclamation 9/09/19
Polish American Heritage Month 10/14/19
2018
Youth Art Month Proclamation 3/26/18
Officer Terry Nightingale Proclamation 3/26/18
Arbor Day Proclamation 4/9/18
National Library Week Proclamation 4/9/18
Prayer Breakfast Proclamation 4/9/18
168
Item 8.
MAYORAL PROCLAMATIONS / DECLARATIONS ISSUED 2017 - CURRENT
High School Basketball Team Proclamation 4/9/18
St. Matthew Community Theater Day Proc. 4/9/18
National Public Works Week 5/14/18
Outstanding Citizen Proclamation 6/11/18
National Night Out Proclamation 7/9/18
Constitution Week Proclamation 9/10/18
Medicare Education Week Proclamation 9/10/18
Domestic Violence Awareness Month Proc. 9/24/18
Sister Cities Proclamation 10/8/18
Walt Fehst Retirement Proclamation 12/10/18
2017
Day of Action to End Domestic Violence Proc. 2/27/17
Tibet Day Proclamation 2/27/17
Library Week Proclamation 4/10/17
Arbor Day Proclamation 4/10/17
Prayer Breakfast Proclamation 4/10/17
Public Works Week Proclamation 5/22/17
Max Richter Proclamation 5/22/17
Humanitarian of the Year Proclamation 6/12/17
Domestic Violence Awareness Month Proc. 9/11/17
Constitution Week Proclamation 9/11/17
American Legion Day Proclamation 9/11/17
Proclamation for ME Global 100th Anniversary 10/9/17
Northeast Bank Proclamation 10/23/17
Dan Thompson Proclamation 12/11/17
169
Item 8.
Resolution 2025 -0XX DRAFT
Resolution calling for the Presidential administration to end its campaign of mass
deportations and family separations.
The Trump administration has called for the largest mass deportation program in U.S. history,
seeking to separate 3,000 families per day.
The Trump administration has made multiple references to the Eisenhower administration’s
racist campaign against immigrants, which resulted in over 1 million family separations,
including the deportations of many U.S. citizens.
Federal agencies including U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) have increased
arrests of U.S. citizens, asylum seekers, and other immigrants regardless of immigration status
and public safety record.
Trump administration has invoked the Alien Enemies Act of 1798 and has explored suspending
the writ of habeas corpus to deny due process.
The United Nations states that “Human rights violations against migrants can include a denial of
civil and political rights such as arbitrary detention, torture, or a lack of due process .”
The rhetoric of mass deportations has driven many families into the shadows, with children
afraid to go to school and to play, and their parents afraid to go to work, essential medical
appointments, and the grocery store.
The Minnesota Chamber Foundation has concluded that “The success of Minnesota’s economy,
both now and in the future, is intrinsically linked to Minnesota’s immigrant communities .”
We firmly believe that Columbia Heights is better with our immigrant neighbors. In our adopted
mission statement, we affirm that we are here to actively support our community and ensure
Columbia Heights is a great place for everyone – and that includes our immigrant families.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that Columbia Heights, Minnesota calls upon the Trump
administration to end its campaign of mass deportations and family separations.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED That we stand with immigrant families and will work to further
defend immigrant rights.
FINDINGS OF FACT
1. The City Council hereby approves
ORDER OF COUNCIL
170
Item 8.
Passed this ________ day of _________ 2025
Offered by:
Seconded by:
Roll Call:
Amada Marquez-Simula, Mayor
Attest:
Sara Ion, City Clerk
171
Item 8.