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https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/MNORGMETC/bulletins/37e2739
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Following the Metropolitan Council’s approval of the METRO F Line Corridor Plan, which identifies the locations of future F Line stations and platforms, the engineering phase of the F Line project began in August 2023. Details like the exact placement of shelters and other amenities within station platforms will be determined in this phase of the project.
Metro Transit is collaborating with the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) throughout the F Line engineering phase. The F Line corridor mostly follows two roadways owned and operated by MnDOT: Trunk Highway 47 (University Avenue) and Trunk Highway 65 (Central Avenue). MnDOT is seeking to improve safety and pavement condition in these two key north-south corridors, needs which were identified in a current transportation planning study of the roadways. F Line engineering is being closely coordinated with MnDOT-led preliminary design of Trunk Highways 47 and 65 to ensure the compatibility of future transit and roadway investments in these corridors.
Metro Transit and MnDOT will engage the public to inform and involve communities in these design processes. This will allow communities to review preliminary designs and provide feedback. More information on engagement opportunities will be announced in 2024.
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As a first step in designing F Line stations, Metro Transit contracted with a firm to assist with field surveying. To complete this work, surveyors gather information about the existing space and utilities below the ground to create accurate measurements for designs and to avoid foreseeable problems before construction.
Field surveying has been completed for all F Line station areas south of 53rd Avenue, except for the southbound side of Central & 37th Avenue due to construction work in the area unrelated to the F Line. Field survey is currently underway on University Avenue north of 57th Avenue. Additional field work for drainage structure reports and locating the existing right-of-way is also ongoing.
Expect brief lane closures for geotechnical investigation beginning this month
Geotechnical borings are needed to sample soils before designing BRT stations. Borings are performed using a drilling machine with a hydraulic auger on the back of a truck. Crews will bore holes approximately one foot in diameter and 20 feet deep near each proposed station location. All holes will be re-filled the same day and seeded, in grassy areas, or patched with asphalt if they were originally paved. Noise from the work will be similar to a medium-sized diesel truck engine. We expect this work to start the week of December 4.
To perform the geotechnical investigation, the public can expect temporary lane and parking closures lasting for up to a day at planned station locations while borings are completed and holes are re-filled. Metro Transit is committed to minimizing the impact of this work and appreciates your understanding and patience.
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