FAQs • Woodbury, MN • CivicEngage

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Adaptive Recreation

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1. What is adaptive recreation?: Adaptive recreation is recreational sports and/or fitness programs for people with cognitive and/or physical disabilities with modifications necessary so people of all abilities can participate.

2. Who can participate?: Youth and young adults with cognitive and/or physical disabilities.

3. Do you have to be a Woodbury resident to participate?: No, we encourage anyone who is interested to register for our programs no matter where you live!

4. Do I need to bring my own equipment?: All equipment for each program is supplied. The only equipment you would need to bring is anything your child uses on a daily basis (communication device, walker/wheelchair, etc.).

5. Will there be people to help my child?: Each program will have an instructor or supervisor that helps run the program. At certain programs, volunteers may be onsite to help, but there may not enough for everyone to have a buddy. Parents/guardians should be prepared to help their child(ren).

6. How can I volunteer?: If you are interested in volunteering for a program, please contact Joe Vaughan at 651-714-3585 or [email protected].

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Central Park Rentals

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1. Can I reserve the indoor park for a photo shoot?: Central Park offers a unique, beautiful backdrop for family, wedding, or graduation professional photos. An hourly fee of $75 plus tax is available during our regular park hours.Call 651-714-3799 to learn more and reserve.

2. Do you offer linens?: Yes, we offer table cloths as well as napkins. Table cloths are offered in black, ivory or white. Napkins are offered in a variety of colors. Table cloths are $8 per table and napkins are $0.50 per napkin. There is a minimum order of 100 for napkins. Linens must be ordered at least 4 weeks in advance of your reservation to ensure delivery.

3. Do you have microphones in the rooms?: Valley Creek A and Valley Creek B Rooms have microphones. The Oak and Tamarack Rooms do not have an integrated sound system in the room.

4. Can I decorate the room I rented?: Nothing can be nailed, stapled, taped or tacked to the walls, ceilings, windows or doors using any type of product; this includes 3M Command Strips. No glitter, confetti, silly string, confetti filled balloons or piñatas, are allowed. Balloons on string are allowed as well as free standing decorations like pipe and drape. All items brought in must be removed or disposed of at the conclusion of the reservation.

5. Can I bring food?: Absolutely no homemade food is allowed. No food preparation is allowed on site. All food must be provided through a licensed establishment (this may include a licensed caterer, restaurant or grocery store).

6. Can I serve alcohol during my rental?: Alcohol is not allowed during reservations during our regular hours of operation. Alcohol can be served through our designated liquor provider during our private rentals from 5:30 p.m.-midnight. Alcohol is never allowed in parking lots.

7. Can I play music during my rental?: DJ’s and loud music are prohibited except during full facility rentals. Music is allowed with prior authorization from building staff.

8. Can I arrive early to setup the room?: You will be charged you for any time you are in the room including setup and clean-up. Please make sure to reserve the time you think you will need to setup as well as clean-up for your specific event.

9. Do the rooms have TVs?: We do have monitors that connect to your device with our ClickShare system in Valley Creek A and Valley Creek B. There are monitors in the Oak and Tamarack rooms that connect to your device with an HDMI cord. Please ask staff for more information on how to connect.

10. Do you have a kitchen?: We do have a kitchen. If you are renting Valley Creek B, you are allowed to use the refrigerator, countertops and sinks in the kitchen. The microwave and stove/oven are not to be used. Please confrim with staff that the kitchen is available for use with your rental if you are interested in using that space.

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Community Garden

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1. What is a community garden?: A community garden is a piece of land owned/leased by the city, but available for gardeners to rent during the summer months. The City of Woodbury, in conjunction with Woodbury Thrives, launched a community garden pilot program in 2022. The program will be offered again in 2023.

2. Can I park my vehicle on the grass next to my garden plot?: No, vehicles must remain parked in the designated parking lot.

3. Who can use the community garden?: Those interested in reserving the garden site must be residents of Woodbury or a Woodbury-based civic group/organization.

4. I cannot afford the rental fee. Is there a program scholarship available?: Yes, more information is available on the city’s website.

5. What does the city provide?: The city will do basic spring maintenance, including ensuring the plots are ready to be planted. The city will provide water and will maintain the paths and parking area. If needed, the city will apply any fertilizer in the spring.

6. What do I need to bring?: You will need to provide your own gardening equipment, seeds, plants, and fertilizer for your plot. If you want a small fence around your plot, you will need to provide that and take it down at the end of the season.

7. Can I leave my gardening tools unattended at the community garden?: Garden tools may not be left unattended. Please plan to transport your garden tools with you for each visit to work on your garden. Any material left unattended at the garden site will be at your own risk.

8. How much time should I expect to dedicate to my garden plot?: Depending on what you plant, the average is one to two hours per week with more time spent during the planting and growing seasons. Be efficient and weed while you water.

9. Can I use pesticides or weed killer?: We highly encourage organic gardening methods. Plots must be kept free of weeds. Weeds are considered to be “out of control” if they are greater than 6 inches in height, flowering or going to seed. Use cultivation or mulches to control weeds. Individuals are responsible for weed control in their plots, even if the plot does not have anything currently growing.

10. Why is organic gardening encouraged?: Organic gardening focuses on building healthy soil that can sustain healthy plants. Organic gardening encourages the natural balance between living organisms in the soil. It is also safer for pollinators, wildlife, pets, and humans. One way the City of Woodbury and Woodbury Thrives foster environmental wellness is by encouraging and supporting environmentally healthy gardening within our community.

11. What can I do to keep rabbits or other animals out of my garden?: The 48 garden plots are enclosed with deer and rabbit-proof fencing. Gardeners are also welcome to use fencing to delineate their garden plots.

12. When is fall harvest and clean up required?

By Oct. 15, fall clean up should be complete, this includes:

Harvesting
Pathways clean up
Removing dead plants
Weeding, planting, and edging weeds along borders
Removal of fencing, plant stakes, tomato supports, or plastic mulch

13. When should I start spring preparation and planting?

By June, your garden should be in the beginning stage. Some activities are:

Pathway clean-up
Weeding, planting and edging weeds along borders
Working the soil in preparation for planting

14. Am I required to sign the gardener’s agreement and waiver to participate in the Community Garden?: Yes. Breaking any rules, terms or conditions is cause for exclusion from the garden and loss of your plot.

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Emergency Medical Services - Take Heart Woodbury

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1. What is Hands-Only™ CPR?

Hands-Only™ CPR is CPR without mouth-to-mouth breathing. It consists of two steps:

Call 911 or send someone to call 911
Push hard and fast in the center of the chest with minimal interruptions.

2. Who should receive Hands-Only™ CPR?: Hands-Only™ CPR is recommended for use on teens and adults (anyone over the age of 8) whom you witness suddenly collapse.

3. Why was Hands-Only™ CPR created?: The method was created to build bystander confidence and participation to assist adults experiencing a sudden cardiac arrest. It is not a conventional CPR course. People who have not been trained in CPR within the last 5 years state that they are more likely to perform Hands-Only™ CPR than conventional CPR (with the breathing technique) for an adult who suddenly collapses. Hands-Only™ CPR is easy to remember and is an effective option for those bystanders who may be hesitant to help.

4. Can you break people's ribs doing CPR?: Yes; CPR can cause fractures. In studies of people who have received such injuries from CPR, the fractures did not cause serious internal bleeding. Besides, a couple of fractured ribs are better than death.

5. Is there a danger in jumping in and giving CPR without being trained?: On average, any attempt to provide CPR to a victim is better than no attempt at all.

6. What should I do if I am getting tired while performing Hands-Only™ CPR?: Continue to provide hard and fast chest compressions with minimal interruptions to the best of your ability. Giving good-quality chest compressions 100 times per minute is hard work; most people will get tired after only a few minutes. If someone else is nearby, ask that person to take over chest compressions after about two minutes or about 200 compressions. If you are alone, just do your best.

7. Why don't adults who suddenly collapse need mouth-to-mouth breathing in the first few minutes after their cardiac arrest?: When an adult experiences cardiac arrest, their lungs and blood contain enough oxygen to keep vital organs healthy for several minutes. Providing high-quality chest compressions will circulate that oxygen-rich blood.

8. What do I do if I find an adult who has collapsed and no one saw it happen?: Call 911 and start CPR.

9. Not all people who suddenly collapse are in cardiac arrest. Will CPR seriously hurt them?: Adults who suddenly collapse and are not responsive are likely to have sudden cardiac arrest and their chance of survival is nearly zero unless someone takes action immediately. You should call 911 and start giving hard and fast chest compressions in the center of the chest. If sudden cardiac arrest is the cause of the collapse, Hands-Only™ CPR is an easy, effective way for any bystander to more than double the victim's chance of survival. If an adult has collapsed for reasons other than sudden cardiac arrest, Hands-Only™ CPR should still help by causing the person to respond (begin to move, breathe normally or speak). If that occurs, Hands-Only™ CPR can be stopped.

10. Is Hands-Only™ CPR as effective as conventional CPR?: Any attempt at CPR is better than no attempt. Hands-Only™ CPR performed by a bystander has been shown to be as effective as conventional CPR with mouth-to-mouth breaths in the first few minutes of an out-of-hospital sudden cardiac arrest. Conventional CPR may be better than Hands-Only™ CPR for certain victims, such as infants and children, adults who experienced an un-witnessed cardiac arrest, or victims of drowning. For information about upcoming Hands-Only™ CPR classes see our Registration Page. For information about CPR and AED certification, see our Sessions Page.

11. Why did the American Heart Association decide to recommend Hands-Only™ CPR for adults you witness suddenly collapse?

This recommendation clarifies and elaborates the 2005 American Heart Association Guidelines for CPR and Emergency Cardiovascular Care. Those guidelines noted that there was a need to increase the prevalence and quality of bystander CPR. The guidelines also contained the recommendation that laypersons should do Hands-Only™ CPR (the guidelines used the term "compression-only CPR") if they are unable or unwilling to provide breaths.

Since the publication of the 2005 AHA Guidelines, several studies showed that Hands-Only™ CPR can be as effective as conventional CPR (CPR with breathing) in the out-of-hospital setting. As a result, American Heart Association volunteer scientists authored an Advisory Statement for the Public. This Advisory Statement, Hands-Only™ (compression-only) CPR: a call to action for bystander response to adults who experience out-of-hospital sudden cardiac arrest, was published in the journal Circulation on March 31. The statement applies to bystanders who see an adult collapse suddenly in the out-of-hospital setting. The purpose of this statement is to encourage the use of Hands-Only™ CPR by untrained bystanders and by trained bystanders who are not confident that they can perform conventional CPR. The statement also notes that trained bystanders who are confident that they can perform conventional CPR with minimal interruption to chest compressions can do so or they can perform Hands-Only™ CPR.

12. How does this recommendation differ from the AHA Guidelines for CPR and ECC?: This scientific advisory amends the 2005 Guidelines on Hands-Only™ CPR (compression-only CPR) by increasing the circumstances for which Hands-Only™ CPR is recommended. Previously, use of Hands-Only™ CPR was recommended only for: "Laypersons... who are unable or unwilling to provide breaths..." and for dispatcher CPR instructions to bystanders by telephone. Recently published evidence demonstrates that Hands-Only™ CPR can be as effective as conventional CPR (CPR with breaths) when performed by bystanders. Therefore, the AHA now recommends that Hands-Only™ CPR can be used by any bystander who witnesses an adult suffer a sudden collapse outside of the hospital setting.

13. Is the previous AHA recommendation for bystanders wrong?

No. With the publication of the 2005 AHA Guidelines for CPR and ECC, the AHA emphasized that the most critical component of performing CPR is delivery of high-quality chest compressions with minimal interruptions. That remains true and can be accomplished for all victims of cardiac arrest using conventional CPR, that is, CPR with breathing (mouth-to-mouth). AHA experts recognize that mouth-to-mouth breathing is a relatively complex skill. If rescuers have not practiced the combination of breathing with chest compressions, the delivery of breaths can result in long and potentially detrimental interruptions to chest compressions. In addition, recent evidence demonstrates that bystander Hands-Only™ CPR is as effective as conventional CPR in the first few minutes of out-of-hospital sudden cardiac arrest. Therefore, Hands-Only™ CPR is now considered an appropriate bystander response to out-of-hospital adult sudden cardiac arrest. The breathing (mouth-to-mouth) component of CPR remains important in the treatment of other cardiovascular emergencies:

All unresponsive infants and children.
Adult victims who are found already unconscious and not breathing normally.
Any victims of drowning or collapse due to breathing problems.

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EMML Baseball

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1. Do I need to bring my own equipment?: All equipment for baseball is supplied including baseballs, plastic bats and gloves. If the participant has their own glove or plastic bat, they are more than welcome to bring it. Metal bats are not allowed. The only equipment you would need to bring is anything your child uses on a daily basis (communication device, walker/wheelchair, etc.).

2. Will there be people to help my child?: Mostly, yes! At every EMML baseball game, there will be a group of volunteers. The volunteers will buddy up with participants that would like/need a buddy to help run, bat and field. On some occasions, our volunteer groups do not have enough people to help everyone, so parent participation is required.

3. Does my child need to know how to play baseball?: No, coaches and volunteers are instructed to help guide each participant with learning the game of baseball while participating.

4. Who can register?: Youth and young adults with cognitive and/or physical disabilities.

5. How are games played?: Games are two innings or 60 minutes long. An inning consists of each team batting through the entire lineup. Each batter gets one base per hit except the last batter who hits a homerun. Plastic, foam or rubber bats are used to hit the soft core tee balls that are used. There are no strikes, balls or outs. All players go out in the field to play defense. Coaches pitch to their own team, but a hitting tee will be onsite for anyone that would like to use it. All games end in a tie.

6. How can I volunteer?: If you are interested in volunteering, please contact Joe Vaughan at 651-714-3585 or [email protected].

7. How will I know if a game gets cancelled due to weather?: The Miracle League coordinator will send out an email to all participants that the game is cancelled. They will also update the weather Line at 651-714-3569.

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Engineering - Rejuvenator Projects

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1. How is the rejuvenator applied?: Pavement rejuvenator is applied as a liquid and sprayed onto the pavement from a distance of about a foot. It takes 30 minutes for the rejuvenator to be absorbed into the pavement. The contractor will apply the product to one side of the road at a time, to maintain access to the neighborhood throughout construction. After the rejuvenator is absorbed into the pavement, sand is placed on the road to absorb excess product.

2. When can I drive over the rejuvenator?: After the rejuvenator is applied, it takes about 30 minutes for the product to be absorbed in to the pavement. After 30 minutes, sand is placed over the rejuvenator to absorb any excess material. Once the sand is applied, the road is safe to drive on. It is recommended to drive slowly over the rejuvenator to prevent any product from splashing on a vehicle.

3. Can I park on the street?: No parking will be allowed on streets when the rejuvenator is placed. Vehicles may resume parking on streets after the sand is swept, 1 to 2 days after the rejuvenator is placed.

4. Is it safe for pets and storm drains?: Rejuvenators are not harmful to pets, but it is recommended to keep all pets off the road for 24 hours. The product is not placed in the rain to help prevent it from getting into storm drains. Occasionally there will be a sheen in stormwater ponds after the rain, but the sheen is a result of animal fats and is not harmful.

5. How do I remove rejuvenator stuck to my car?: You can exit your driveway and drive through the work area, but please go slow and stay on the sanded areas as the material can be slippery and may stick to vehicles. Be advised that driving onto a driveway before the contractor is finished sanding may cause the driveway and sidewalk to become temporarily discolored. These materials can be washed off with hot soapy water, WD-40 or a bug and tar remover. It is most effective to clean the material off as soon as possible.

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Engineering - Traffic Control - Traffic Signals

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1. How do traffic signals work?

In Woodbury, traffic signals usually operate in one of two ways: using vehicle detectors, usually a wire loop buried in the pavement, or via video detection, which uses cameras mounted on mast arms or signal poles.

The vehicle detector loops work like a metal detector, sensing the car's magnetism, not weight. Video detection uses a camera that can recognize an approaching vehicle (Radio Drive/Lake Road and Tamarack Road/Interlachen Parkway use video detection).

In both of the systems, the detectors send a signal to a computer, which then changes the light at the appropriate time in the signal sequence. The signals do have some fixed timings entered, such as minimum and maximum green times, yellow time, or pedestrian timing, but otherwise the signal responds to the traffic that is present.

In the middle of the night, the signal might stay green for hours in the same direction if there is no cross-traffic.

2. How much do traffic signals cost?: If there aren't any road improvements needed, such as adding turn lanes, then a complete traffic signal system for a typical four-way intersection will cost about $250,000 to $300,000. When additional costs like control equipment, project inspection, and design are taken into account, the costs generally exceed $300,000. There are also ongoing costs for electricity, painting, re-lamping, and other maintenance.

3. Will a traffic signal make an intersection safer?

A traffic signal should not be expected to reduce the total number of crashes at an intersection. Traffic signals in Minnesota, according to a 2013 study, have a statewide crash rate of about five crashes for every 10 million entering vehicles.

An all-way stop has an average crash rate of four crashes for every 10 million entering vehicles, and a two-way stop has an average of three crashes per 10 million entering vehicles. Of course this can depend on other site conditions as well, but on average, a signal will reduce right-angle crashes while causing an increase in rear-end crashes with an overall increase in crashes. Right angle crashes are often the most severe crashes resulting in injury, while rear end crashes involve property damage but are generally less severe.

Unfortunately, drivers occasionally run red lights or fail to notice stopped traffic in front of them. Many of the city's serious and fatal crashes occur at traffic signals. Therefore, it is very important to study an intersection to ensure a traffic signal is appropriate.

4. How does the City decide where to install signals?

Traffic signals are usually warranted based on minimum traffic volumes during eight hours of a typical weekday. These minimum volumes, or "warrants," vary depending on the speed of the roadway and the number of approach lanes.

For a signal to be considered, it needs to meet the necessary warrants and be justified by an engineering study. Engineering studies review factors such as access and distance to nearby signals, lane geometry, and future road plans. If all the necessary conditions are satisfied and funding is available, a signal installation may be considered.

5. Why is the "Walk" light so short? I can only get halfway across before it starts flashing.: The "Walk" light isn't supposed to stay on for more than a few seconds. The state standard is seven seconds, but can be as little as five seconds. The "Walk" light means that it's okay to start crossing. If you started crossing at the transition from "Walk" to a flashing "Don't Walk" sign, it should flash long enough for most people to make it all the way across the road before the "Don't Walk" stops flashing and the light starts to change. When the signal is flashing "Don't Walk", it is safe to finish crossing the intersection; however, it is not safe to enter the crosswalk at this time. When the "Don't Walk" stops flashing and the light changes, it is unsafe to cross the road.

6. Why can't the signals be timed together to reduce delay?

All traffic signals in Woodbury rely on detectors to maximize efficiency. Traffic signals typically will not turn red for the main roadway until the detectors sense a gap in the traffic and a vehicle is detected on the cross street, or the maximum time for a green light is reached. This is designed to increase efficiency and safety by reducing the number of vehicles confronted with a yellow light.

Unfortunately, gaps in traffic often occur when a large platoon of traffic is approaching but is out of range of the detectors. This causes the entire platoon of vehicles to arrive at a red light, sometimes for the benefit of just a few vehicles entering from the side street.

Traffic signal systems can be coordinated, but doing so will typically lead to longer wait times for side street traffic and for left turns. When traffic signals are coordinated they operate on a fixed timing cycle to remain in step with each other. The cycle must be long enough to accommodate the busiest intersection in the corridor. While this coordination can be a benefit, it is costly to implement and will typically increase the wait time to enter a highway. These coordinated timing cycles also benefit from regular adjustments and maintenance, which can be costly to optimize efficiency.

7. What should drivers do when a traffic signal is flashing or all lights are dark?

When a traffic signal malfunctions but still has power, it will often revert to an all-red flashing mode. When you approach a signal light that is flashing red, you must come to a complete stop (Mn Statute 169.06, Subd. 7). Sometimes the traffic signal will flash red in all directions, making the intersection operate like a four-way stop. At some intersections, the lights may flash yellow for the main roadway, thus making the intersection function like a two-way stop. Always stop at a traffic signal that is flashing red, and be sure it is safe before entering the intersection as the cross traffic may not be required to stop. If you approach a flashing yellow light, you do not need to come to a complete stop. However, be alert for drivers entering the intersection and proceed with caution.

Signals that are in flashing mode can return to normal operation at any time and without warning, even when repair workers are not present. The flashing red may change to a solid red, and drivers often fail to notice the difference, running the red light. Proceeding on a solid red light is always illegal and can lead to a crash. Be alert, and make sure that the light is still flashing and that it is safe to proceed before entering the intersection.

During severe weather season, it is not unusual to have power outages due to high wind or lightning strikes. Traffic signals throughout the city rely on electricity to function. If a traffic signal is in an area of a power outage, it will go dark with no light operation.

If you approach a traffic signal without power, remember that the rules of right-of-way still apply. You should:

Slow down and prepare to stop.
Determine who has right-of-way to proceed through the intersection.

If there is a lot of traffic at the intersection, it will naturally begin to function as a four-way stop. Remember that vehicles have right-of-way in the order in which they arrive regardless of which road they arrive from. If two vehicles arrive at the intersection at approximately the same time, the vehicle on the left must yield to the vehicle on the right, and left turns must yield to oncoming traffic.

Always assume that other drivers may react unpredictably or that they may not even slow down when driving through an uncontrolled intersection. Drive defensively, even if it means waiting beyond "your turn" to proceed through the intersection safely.

To report a signal malfunction, call the Washington County Sheriff's Office dispatcher at 651-439-9381. If it is an emergency, call 911.

8. How should drivers respond to a flashing yellow arrow?

When approaching a flashing yellow arrow, drivers are allowed to turn left after yielding to all oncoming traffic and to any pedestrians in the crosswalk.

Oncoming traffic has a green light. Drivers must wait for a safe gap in oncoming traffic before turning. It is illegal to pull into the intersection with a flashing yellow light if the driver is unable to move through the intersection immediately.

To learn more about flashing yellow arrows, visit the Minnesota Department of Transportation website.

9. Which government agency owns which traffic signals?

Within the city, traffic signals are generally owned by the City, Washington County, or the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT). The following rules are generally true, but there are exceptions:

Signals at interchange ramps and loops are owned by MnDOT.
Signals at all intersections involving at least one state road (e.g. Manning Avenue) are owned by MnDOT.
Signals at intersections involving a county road are owned by the county.
Signals at intersections that only include city roads are owned by the city.

To report a signal malfunction, contact the highway department responsible for the signals:

For city signals, contact the City of Woodbury Public Works Department at 651-714-3720.
For signals on state highways in Woodbury, contact MnDOT at 651-234-7500.
For signals on Washington County roads (Radio Drive, Woodbury Drive, Valley Creek Road, Century Avenue and Military Road) call Washington County Public Works at 651-430-4300.
In an emergency, dial 911.

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Environment - Smart Irrigation Controller Program for Residential - About the Program

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1. What is being offered?: Wi-Fi-based Rachio 3 irrigation controllers are being offered to homeowners for a discounted price of $35. Controllers are purchased online.

2. Who is eligible to participate?: Any residence in Woodbury with an irrigation system installed prior to 2018 is eligible to participate. Woodbury City Code was updated to require all residences with irrigation systems built after December 2017 to have a smart irrigation controller installed. Participation is limited to one per residence for the life of the program.

3. How many zones is the controller compatible with?: Controllers that can accommodate 8 or 16 zones are offered. Most systems use 8 or fewer. A limited number of 16-zone controllers will be available. The website will be updated when 16-zone controllers are sold out. To receive a 16-zone controller, you must indicate 9-16 zones after purchasing your controller.

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Environment - Smart Irrigation Controller Program for Residential - About the Smart Controller

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1. Why was the Rachio controller selected?: The Rachio is Environment Protection Agency (EPA) WaterSense certified and utilizes Wi-Fi to make water decisions instead of secondary components like sensors. Rachio was rated highly by Smart Water Application Technologies (SWAT), a national partnership initiative of water purveyors and irrigation industry representatives to promote landscape efficiency through state-of-the-art technology. Rachio controllers have been used in the last few years of the city's program. Participants continue to report high satisfaction, decreased water use, and ease of being able to work through issues with the Rachio support network.

2. How does the controller work?

The controller connects to your home's Wi-Fi to rely on local weather station data and seasonal variation to decide how much water your grass needs.

Check your Wi-Fi strength at your existing controller before purchasing. Fewer than 10% of participants have needed to install Wi-Fi boosters to provide the signal to their controller.

Controllers are operated with smart phones. If you utilize an irrigation company, you can share access with them through the app (no need to give them your Wi-Fi or login information).

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Environment - Smart Irrigation Controller Program for Residential - Controller Support

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1. How do I install and program the controller?

There are several videos available on Rachio's YouTube channel, including installation and programming guides.

There is also information specific to the Woodbury program on the Rachio website.

2. What do I do if I’m having an issue with my controller?: Contact Rachio support at 844-472-2446 or visit the Rachio website.

3. Does the controller come with a flow meter?: No. The flow meter can be purchased through Rachio separately. To receive a $20 discount, use the promo code WOODBURYFLOW20.

4. Do I need a rain sensor with the system?: You do not need a rain sensor. If you have one, it can be plugged into the Rachio system for more accurate weather data.

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Environment - Smart Irrigation Controller Program for Residential - Purchasing a Controller

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1. How do I purchase a controller?: Controllers are purchased online.

2. What should I do if I’m having trouble signing into the system?: Contact the city at 651-714-3593.

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Fire / Emergency Medical Services - Knox Box

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1. What is a Knox Box?: A Knox Box lock box is a high security box type system, designed to give emergency service workers immediate access to locked buildings.

2. Why should I install Knox Box?: Installation of a Knox Box on your building will not only allow Public Safety workers faster access in case of an emergency, but will also prevent expensive forcible entry should emergency services be required while the premises are unoccupied. Costly front doors and entry ways needn't be harmed if entry keys are available on-site.

3. How does the Knox Box system work?: A Knox Box is purchased from the factory and mounted securely on the exterior of your building. All necessary access keys will be locked inside by a representative of the Public Safety Department; only the Public Safety Department's master key can open the box. Public Safety Master Keys are not carried by any one person of the Public Safety Department, but instead are kept locked inside a similar Knox Box on Public Safety apparatus for convenience and security.

4. Who can purchase a Knox Box system?: An authorization to purchase a Knox Box can be done online by accessing our Knox Box Ordering Information Guide (PDF) and following the instructions. The Woodbury Public Safety Department has a unique authorization code assigned which will insure that your box is keyed to the Woodbury access key code. Each box is shipped without keys, locked in the open position and ready for mounting.

5. How should I install the box and where should it be mounted?: Each Knox box is shipped with complete mounting instructions, you should contact the Fire Marshal at 651-714-3552 to assist you in choosing a proper location for mounting. After installation is complete, the Fire Marshal will lock the appropriate keys needed inside the box. It is then ready to provide immediate access to emergency personnel 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

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Home - FAQs

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1. How do I pay my city water bill?: Answer goes here...

2. How do I get a new trash can lid?: Answer goes here...

3. How do I apply for a job with the City?: Answer goes here...

4. My trash didn't get picked up, what should I do now?: Answer goes here...

5. How do I get a garage sale permit?: Answer goes here...

6. How can I see the agenda for an upcoming City Council or Board meeting?: Answer goes here...

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Housing - Landscape & Drainage

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1. I've just purchased a new home in Woodbury and I am planning the landscaping. I've heard a little about boulevards and I know there are easements on my property. What is their purpose?

The boulevard is part of the street right-of-way. It is used for installation and maintenance of sewer and water lines and storage of snow in the winter. Planting trees or bushes in the boulevard, street right-of-way, is not permitted. Lawn sprinkler systems are allowed in the boulevard, however the city will not repair sprinkler systems damaged by snowplows or other work. Boulevard widths vary from 6 feet to 18 feet in residential areas. Typical width is 13 feet.

To verify the boulevard width on your lot, contact either:

Building Department
Phone: 651-714-3543
Email the Building Department
Engineering Department
Phone: 651-714-3593
Email the Engineering Department

2. Now I understand the boulevard is part of the street right-of-way, but what are the easements for?: Easements allow certain rights on a property. Drainage easements give the city rights to regulate drainage within the easement area. Utility easements give utility companies (electric, gas, phone, etc.) rights to install utilities in these easements. Typical city lots will have 5-foot easements on the side yards and 10-foot easements on the front and rear yard. It should be noted that the front yard easement is in addition to the boulevard. Individual lot surveys will show these easements.

3. May I plant trees or bushes in the easements?: Plantings such as trees and bushes may be placed in drainage and utility easements at the risk of the property owner, provided they do not change or interfere with the drainage. The city does not encourage extensive plantings or landscaping in the easement area because of potential drainage problems and the possibility of utility work in the easements. The city or utility companies will not replace plantings or landscaping removed or damaged during work within the easement area.

4. Do I need city approval to work in the easement area?: Any work that would change or interfere with the drainage on the easements or any part of the property, should be approved by the Engineering Department before starting the work.

5. Is there anything else I should know?: The City of Woodbury passed an ordinance to reduce erosion in 1994. It requires turf be established within 60 days, excluding the time between October 1st and May 1st, of the city issuing a Certificate of Occupancy. We would also like to remind you to maintain, until turf is established, any silt fence or hay bale erosion control systems that may be on your lot.

6. Many cities have lawn sprinkling restrictions. Do we have any in Woodbury?

To ensure adequate water pressure and minimize the chance of shortfalls during times of peak water use, the City of Woodbury has adopted an odd-even watering policy, and a daily watering ban from noon until 5 pm. Residents who have even-numbered houses may water lawns on even-numbered calendar days; residents with odd-numbered homes may water on odd-numbered days.

If you are considering purchasing a lawn sprinkler system, it is a good idea to look for one that may be easily set for odd or even days. Special watering permits can be obtained for newly placed sod or seed by contacting Public Works by email or by calling 651-714-3720.

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Housing - Questions to Consider Before Purchasing a Home

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1. There is a vacant property near the home I am considering purchasing. What will be there?

The City of Woodbury is a dynamic community which is developing at pace with market demands. Most vacant land you see in the city is privately owned and may be privately developed. The city has limited authority, through its zoning ordinance, over what can be built on the property and at what pace. A zoning district can allow multiple types of development within it and, often times, property owners request changes to the zoning.

The city encourages you to call or visit the Planning Division at City Hall at 651-714-3533 to ask about the zoning of adjacent property, e.g., residential, commercial, industrial, and what types of development could occur.

2. How do I know which school my children will attend?

Three school districts serve Woodbury:

District 622 (North St. Paul/Maplewood/Oakdale)
District 833 (South Washington County)
District 834 (Stillwater)

You should determine the school district in which your home is located, then contact the district office for information about which school(s) your children will attend. The school your children attend is based on enrollment and other factors. It is possible that they will not attend a school in your neighborhood or in the City of Woodbury. In addition, each school district has attendance boundaries that are changed within the school district, from time to time, to meet enrollment needs.

For more information on schools, including private schools, visit the Woodbury Schools page.

3. There are private covenants within my development. What are these and who enforces them?: Private covenants are private rules covering all of the properties within a development. They can regulate things like the size and type of fences, the permitted colors of homes, or whether sheds or other accessory structures are allowed. They are not enforced by the city. Your developer/builder or home owners association can help you with specific questions regarding your development. Be sure to ask for a copy of the covenants and review them.

4. Will parks and trails be developed near the home I am considering purchasing?: The city has plans for how parks and trails will be developed. It should be noted that public facilities such as park buildings, monopoles, city well houses, and other buildings are often built within parks. Contact Parks and Recreation with specific questions at 651-714-3583.

5. Does the city provide a warranty for work done by builders and developers?

No. A warranty is a seller's assurance to the buyer that the final product will be as represented. Warranties are private contracts between buyers and sellers. The city regulates the development process, but has no authority regarding private contracts or warranty work. Items such as drainage and workmanship are part of the contract between buyer and seller. The city's responsibility is to review plans and perform inspections to ensure compliance with city codes during the development and construction phase.

Some builders offer a warranty program. You should ask your builder about his/hers.

6. Who owns easements and what purpose do they serve? Who can help me?

There are several types of easements, e.g.:

Drainage
Power line
Scenic
Utility pipeline
Wetland conservation, etc.

The easements on a typical city lot are for drainage and utilities. While the home owner owns the property, easements give certain public and private entities the right to enter the property and perform work. Wetland conservation easements are designed to ensure the area is left in an undisturbed and natural state.

All easements on your property should be shown on the lot survey or plat, or described within the title documents. It is recommended that you contact the city's Engineering Department at 651-714-3593 to review the purpose and specifics of any easements on your property prior to placing objects including trees, fences, landscaping features, play structures, etc. in your yard. Any objects placed within an easement that impede the access or intended use of that easement may be removed in the future by the city at your expense.

7. Concerning property taxes, what will I be required to pay on my new home?

Property taxes are based upon the total value of the property, land and buildings, on January 2 the year prior to the tax payable year. In other words, taxes payable in 2013 are based on the county-assessed value of the property on January 2, 2012. If at that time, the property was a vacant lot, you pay taxes on only the vacant lot. If construction on the home began before January 2, a county appraiser will estimate the value of what is completed on January 2. If construction is not complete, the property taxes will be based on a partial value for one year.

If your new home in Woodbury will be your primary residence, apply for residential homestead status after closing on your property. Residential homestead is one of many state-legislated property tax classes. It may result in a reduced property tax bill for an owner-occupied property. You can apply for residential homestead status at the Washington County Service Center located at 2150 Radio Drive.

For property-specific information, please visit the Washington County Property Information page.

8. How do I know if the streets are private and what does that mean to the home owner?

If the streets within a development are private the individuals within the development own the streets, usually as part of the home owners association. Home owners associations usually hire a private contractor to plow and maintain the streets. The city does not plow or maintain private streets. When private streets need to be maintained or replaced it is the responsibility of the home owners or the home owners association to do that. Ask your association how it will plan to pay for these future expenditures.

For further information on private streets or streets in general, contact Engineering at 651-714-3593.

9. The lot I am looking at is adjacent to a pond. Will it remain that way?: During rainy periods, ponds may be higher. During dry periods ponds may be lower. In addition, some ponds are designed to be primarily dry year round. Pond vegetation and appearance will change naturally from year to year and cannot be altered by home owners. For further information, contact Environmental Department at 651-714-3533.

10. Once my home is built, is it safe to assume that the way the area looks today will remain that way?

No. Woodbury is a growing community with changing needs. Road widening may occur to improve traffic flow. Traffic signs, stop signs and other improvements may be added. More homes and commercial buildings will be developed to meet market demands, and additional public facilities will be built to serve the public's needs. Land uses and zoning of properties within the area may change.

The important thing for home buyers to consider is where the development and upgrades will occur and whether they consider them to be positive or negative. This will give home buyers the knowledge to purchase a home consistent with their needs and desires.

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Metro Gold Line

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1. What is the Gold Line?

The METRO Gold Line is a 10-mile dedicated Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) line being planned by Washington County, Ramsey County, and METRO Transit that will connect Woodbury to St. Paul and other eastern suburbs. The Gold Line will provide frequent, all-day service in both directions, seven days a week, and will connect with the growing regional transit system.

Metro Gold Line Map with Multiple Listed Streets

The Gold Line corridor is proposed to generally run along the north side of I-94 from the Union Depot in Saint Paul to Oakdale, then cross over I-94 on a new bridge connecting Helmo Avenue and Bielenberg Drive. Once the Gold Line enters Woodbury, it would run north-south following Bielenberg Drive, then turn onto Guider Drive toward Woodlane Drive and I-494, where the corridor ends.

Gold Line Stations

Three station areas have been identified in Woodbury. Two stations will be walk-up stations including the Tamarack Station, located on Bielenberg Drive approximately one-third mile north of Tamarack Road, and the Woodbury Theatre Station, located on Guider Drive near the Woodbury 10 Theatre. The third station, the I-494 Station, will include a park-and-ride lot. This station, located at the intersection of Guider Drive and Woodlane Drive, will also serve as the terminus of the Gold Line route.

Questions can be directed to Liz Jones via email.

2. When is the Gold Line anticipated to be operational?: Construction for the Gold Line is scheduled to begin in 2022 and is expected to be in service in 2025.

3. Why does the City support the Gold Line?

The city's support for the Gold Line is firmly connected to its commitment to providing an effective transportation system that serves community stakeholders and better connects the city with the rest of the region. The Gold Line would provide additional transit access and reliability between the eastern suburbs and the growing regional transitway system.

Although private cars are the most commonly used mode of transportation for many Woodbury residents, public transit is an important alternative to automobile use and serves as one part of a multi-modal transportation strategy for the community. The Gold Line will offer new opportunities for residents, employees, and business owners by strengthening connections between eastern suburbs and St. Paul, including access to jobs, housing, services, and recreation/entertainment.

The Gold Line project will provide all-day transit service to meet the existing and long-term regional mobility and local accessibility needs for businesses and the traveling public within the project area. There is currently limited transit service throughout the day and demand for more frequent service over a larger portion of the day exists.
The Gold Line will assist local businesses in their employee recruitment by improving access for non-residents who desire employment and services within Woodbury. Outreach with employers in the city indicate support for this project. The Woodbury Area Chamber of Commerce has voiced support for the Gold Line and its trail and pedestrian connections, as it will provide direct access to several of Woodbury's top employment centers and will help eliminate transportation barriers and make it easier for local businesses to access a greater labor force.
The Gold Line will provide additional economic development benefits by enhancing future development opportunities for those business users that value transit connectivity for their employees and customers.
The Gold Line will provide additional transportation options for residents of Woodbury and those along the planned route. The Gold Line will provide a benefit of improved access to jobs for both residents of Woodbury and those residing outside of the community that are working for Woodbury employers. With its all-day frequent bi-directional service, the Gold Line will provide added transit service flexibility beyond express bus services which previously only provided rides during morning and afternoon peak hours.
A diverse array of transit options not only offers convenience and accessibility and encourages healthy lifestyles, but it can also play a key role in achieving sustainability by reducing the need to expand roadways and limiting fuel consumption and air pollution.
The Gold Line project includes the construction of a new bridge over I-94 connecting Bielenberg Drive to Helmo Avenue at no initial capital cost to the city. This bridge has been in the city's Comprehensive Plan for two decades but would have been difficult to build without this project.
The project includes significant reconstruction of aging city-owned roadway and trail infrastructure at no initial capital cost to the city. Investments by the project also include expansion of the trail and sidewalk networks to eliminate gaps in the existing system.

4. What is the City's role?

Transit is considered a regional system, and as such the Gold Line is under the purview of the Metropolitan Council, the region's metropolitan planning organization. It is the lead agency responsible for design, engineering, environmental review and community outreach as well as building and maintaining the line. The Gold Line project team includes staff from Metropolitan Council, Ramsey County, Washington County and MnDOT. Metro Transit, which is the primary public transportation operator in the Minneapolis St. Paul area, will operate the Gold Line.

The City of Woodbury's involvement has been as a stakeholder and the City Council has adopted a resolution, which outlines the city's priorities as they relate to the Gold Line project. In addition, Woodbury staff have served on advisory committees throughout the design process to help advance and refine the design and ensure that issues unique to Woodbury are being addressed.

5. How does the 2040 Comprehensive Plan provide guidance and support for the Gold Line?

The city's support for the Gold Line is firmly connected to its commitment to providing an effective transportation system that serves community stakeholders. The 2040 Comprehensive Plan affirms this long-standing commitment through its guiding principles, one of which is to:

"Plan for an effective Transportation System"- Woodbury is dedicated to providing diverse and effective multi-modal transportation systems that ensure the accessibility and connectivity of community amenities. As the city evolves and transportation needs change, Woodbury must ensure that the transportation system serves community stakeholders. Growth will increase demand on the existing and future roadway system, and it will not be possible or desirable to accommodate this demand solely by building larger roads. While the city will accommodate the demand for safe, well-maintained roadways, it also recognizes that creative solutions are necessary that balance safe and efficient transportation with other aspects of quality of life in Woodbury, such as aesthetics, stormwater management and adjacent land uses. The city believes alternative forms of transportation such as busing, biking, and walking are essential to the quality of life in Woodbury. As such, the city will continue its commitment to pedestrian accessibility and actively participate in efforts to expand regional transit systems that serve Woodbury and the eastern metropolitan area. (For more information please see Chapter 7: Transportation (PDF)

Chapter 4: Land use (PDF) of the 2040 Comprehensive Plan (see pages 55-58) also outlines goals and policies related to the work that the City is doing on the Gold Line Station Area Master Plan.

The addition of all-day, bi-directional transit to these three station areas provides a unique opportunity for the city to optimize the potential development or redevelopment through the master planning process. The city will use this process to study and secure the appropriate combination of land uses for each station area based on each area's unique development opportunities, market conditions, and ridership potential. Master planning at the station areas will promote cohesive architectural identity using building materials, landscaping and other architectural or streetscape features to create a unique sense of place.

6. I've been reading about development along the Gold Line corridor. How will existing businesses, like the Woodbury 10 Theatre, be impacted by the project?

The City of Woodbury has been developing a master plan for the station areas along the Gold Line corridor. The plan does not propose to acquire any properties or close businesses. The plan will include land use recommendations and zoning regulations that will guide potential new development or redevelopment for the area and will enhance connectivity for existing businesses along the corridor.

In regard to the existing Woodbury 10 Theatre, there is a station planned to the north of the theatre, which would not impact the theatre site itself. It is anticipated that the future zoning will identify the theatre as an allowed use as the city views it as a complementary use to the proposed transit. Both the Woodbury 10 Theatre building and site are owned by the Metropolitan Council, and there is a lease between the theatre operator and the Metropolitan Council. The Station Area Master Plan will consider possible development scenarios in the event that either the land owner or the business operator determines that redevelopment should occur.

7. Why is the Gold Line project moving forward when transit ridership Is down due to the pandemic?

The Gold Line project looks out more than 50 years as it provides additional transportation options for the City of Woodbury. Metro Transit's Gold Line Project Office and Washington County provided the following perspective related to long-term ridership:

"Today, as COVID restrictions are slowly relaxing and as we navigate our new normal, Metro Transit continues to look beyond the pandemic to build the transit network of the future and be a part of our economic recovery.

The METRO Gold Line and Bus Rapid Transit are part of transit's future, providing a frequent, all-day service. During the pandemic, the existing BRT service had some of the highest essential rides. After the pandemic, ridership projections show that people will return to transit and will seek high-quality options with frequent service.

After the pandemic, Gold Line project partners know that even more people will need to get to work, education opportunities, daily errands, and appointments, as well as recreation. As residents adjust to new working styles, commuting patterns are likely to look different. The fast, frequent, and all-day service of the Gold Line will provide residents the flexibility to ride anytime, without a schedule."

8. How has information been shared with the public regarding the Gold Line Project?

Planning for what would ultimately become the Gold Line began in 2007, with the I-94 Corridor Transit and Transportation Study. As the project has evolved over time, the City Council has discussed this item at many council workshops and meetings. As of January 27, 2022 there have been numerous public meetings about the Gold Line, all of which were noticed and open to the public:

METRO Gold Line -City Council Meetings and Workshops (as of March 9, 2022)

Council Workshops (16)

Council Meetings (23)
EDA Meetings (3)
Council Resolutions (23)
EDA Resolutions (6)

Information about the Gold Line was also shared through the City Update newsletter, which is mailed to every address in Woodbury. Since 2011, there have been 14 articles. The city has also used various social media posts to update the public on the project.

In addition to the city meetings and outreach, the Gold Line Project Office has held a robust public engagement process, which involved open house events, 'pop-up' events at various locations and community events, booths at the Woodbury Community Expo and Woodbury Days, etc. The Gold Line's public outreach can be found on the Metro Transit website.

The Gold Line project office has also conducted public engagement efforts throughout the planning of the project. Additional information related to the Metropolitan Council’s engagement efforts are available on the project website at: https://www.metrotransit.org/gold-line-public-engagement

9. How much will the Gold Line cost and what are the City costs associated with the project?

As of April 5, 2021, the Gold Line Project Office has reported an estimated cost of $531.9 million, with 45% of the funding expected to come from the Federal New Starts program. The remaining 55% of the funding is split between a variety of mostly local funding sources including the two counties, Ramsey and Washington, and the State of Minnesota.

While the vast majority of the cost of the Gold Line are being born by other governmental agencies as noted above, the City of Woodbury will have some cost obligations as it relates to the Gold Line project.

City capital cost included in the overall Gold Line project cost (pending final Council approval):

$174,000 Hudson Road/Guider Drive trails, which represents the City cost share of $642,000 in new trail improvements on the Southside of Hudson Road and the north side of Guider Drive.

City design cost related to optional project enhancements:

$9,500 Bielenberg Drive trail (Tamarack Road to Stephens Way)
$72,800 landscaping and lighting

City capital cost related to optional project enhancements (pending final Council approval):

$3,100,000 landscaping and lighting; estimated construction cost
$736,000 Bielenberg Drive trail (Tamarack Road to Stephens Way) estimated construction cost

Consulting costs related to the Gold Line project:

$169,000 Station Area Master Plan ($50,000 of which was funded by the Washington County Community Development Agency)
$20,000 stormwater technical review, estimated
$8,236 grant application assistance- Regional Solicitation

City cost related to future maintenance (annual)

$13,000 Bielenberg Bridge over I-94; estimate
$150,000 landscaping, lighting, and wayfinding; estimate

10. What are the Gold Line ridership projections?

The Gold Line ridership has been evaluated with a number of different ridership models over the past several years. According to Gold Line Project Director Christine Beckwith, "The federal "STOPS" model projects between 6000 and 6500 rides per day. When Gold Line begins operating, it is projected to be one of the region's top ten busiest bus routes."

Based on the FTA STOPS model, the following estimates have been provided by the Gold Line Project Office on riders per station:

Tamarack Station: Under 100 trips per day
Woodbury Theatre Station: Approximately 200-350 trips per day
Woodbury 494 Station: Approximately 750-800 trips per day

Riders per station

Jobs adjacent to the stations (data from the U.S. Census Bureau, Center for Economic Studies, 2016):

Tamarack Station on Bielenberg: 3,910
Woodbury Theater and I-494 Park and Ride: 4,282

11. What is a 'dedicated guideway'?

The Gold Line will be Minnesota's first BRT line that operates primarily within exclusive bus-only lanes. Approximately 80% of the METRO Gold Line will have exclusive lanes dedicated only to buses, while the remaining portion of the line will operate in the existing roadway lanes.

These separate lanes ensure buses are not delayed due to traffic congestion, which provides more schedule consistency and reliability for the riders. In Woodbury, the Gold Line will run in a dedicated guideway in the middle of Bielenberg Drive from Woodbury's northern border (I-94) to the Nature Path/Stephens Way intersection. The remainder of the route in Woodbury will operate in the existing roadway lanes. The maps below show where the dedicated guideway will be in Woodbury.

12. How frequently will the buses run?

The Gold Line is expected to run every 10 minutes during rush hour and every 15 minutes midday, evenings and Saturday. Less frequent service will be provided in the early morning, late at night and Sunday.

There is not anticipated to be overnight service (midnight to 5 am). During rush hour, Express Buses will supplement METRO Gold Line service.

13. Why was the express bus service suspended?

Metro Transit suspended the express bus service (Route 351 and 355) within Woodbury beginning December 4, 2021. Routes 351 and 355, the non-stop express routes serving Woodbury, were initially suspended in March 2020 due to the COVID pandemic and the associated rise in working or learning from home. Route 353 service was subsequently expanded in March 2020 offering four trips in each direction to accommodate the suspension of non-stop express service and for efficiencies (the ability to serve both downtowns with one route as ridership sharply fell).

Metro Transit has been evaluating travel patterns to determine the right amount of express service while the market recovers from the effects of the COVID pandemic. As a result, the non-stop express bus service offered on Routes 351 and 355 was restored August 2021 in anticipation of some workers returning to the office and the University of Minnesota returning to in-person classes. The express bus market from Woodbury Theatre has historically been one of their stronger markets.

Since many express bus riders continue to work from home, demand for express bus service has not rebounded with ridership levels at roughly 90% below pre-pandemic levels (2019). This reduced ridership, combined with the fact that Metro Transit is dealing with unprecedented driver shortages resulting in cancelled trips that inconvenience transit customers, has led to Metro Transit’s decision to suspend service on several routes.

14. What is the Economic Development impact?

The Gold Line will assist local businesses in their employee recruitment by improving access for non-residents who wish to access jobs and services within Woodbury. It also provides additional economic development benefits by enhancing future development opportunities for business users who value transit connectivity for their employees and customers.

Every year, Metro Transit's Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) office publishes a Development Trends Along Transit Report (PDF) and regional growth along with our high-frequency transit networks.

Sources:

15. What about the safety of the Gold Line?

The Gold Line will have enhanced security at the stations including cameras and emergency phones, fare enforcement by Transit Police and improved lighting along the corridor.

Woodbury Public Safety will work collaboratively with Metro Transit Police to enhance public safety and assist Metro Transit Police with any issues that arise. Additional information about safety can be found on with the Metro Transit

16. Who do I contact for more information about the Gold Line?

Questions can be directed to the following contacts:

Gold Line Project Office - Liz Jones [email protected]
Washington County- Sara Allen [email protected]
The City of Woodbury Planning Division - [email protected] or 651-714-3533

17. I would like more information on Gold Line Project from Metro Gold Line website: Gold Line Project Metro Transit

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Parks & Trails - Emerald Ash Borer

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1. What can residents do to mitigate the effect of expected tree loss due to the emerald ash borer?

Residents are encouraged to take steps to mitigate the effects of the expected tree loss across the city as well as be on the lookout for signs and symptoms of the emerald ash borer (EAB) infestation. Here is what you can do:

Determine if you have ash trees on your property. Look for signs of EAB damage, which include dieback of leaves in the upper one-third of the tree's branches, heavy woodpecker activity, bark splitting, S-shaped larvae tunnels under the bark, or a significant amount of water sprouts on the trunk. If you suspect an EAB infestation, please call a certified tree service provider.
DO not plant new ash trees. For a list of recommended trees to replant, visit the University of Minnesota Extension website.
Consider removal of declining or small ash trees on your property now, especially if they are small enough to do the removal yourself. This may save on the cost of removal in the future. Keep in mind that most trees will require a professional to remove.
- To prevent the accelerated spread of adult beetles, MDA guidelines recommend pruning and removal of ash during the months of October through April when the EAB is dormant. If possible, avoid pruning and removal of ash trees during the months of May through September, when the EAB is active.
- You can find a list of compost sites in the county on the Washington County website. Tree removal companies usually will dispose of the tree for you. In order to prevent the spread of EAB, all ash wood should be properly destroyed within Woodbury.
Early detection and preventive treatments with approved insecticides can prolong the life of an ash tree. Tree contractors with pesticide applicators licenses should be consulted to discuss treatment options. Before deciding to treat your tree, educate yourself about the pros and cons of these chemicals. The city recommends the trunk injection application method; the soil drench application method has a higher risk for unwanted environmental effects. Keep in mind that there is no "cure" for EAB infestation and insecticide treatments will be needed every one to three years, depending on the chemical used. Hire a certified arborist with a pesticide applicator's license to perform these treatments.
Do not remove or treat ash trees in the public right-of-way near the street (boulevard trees), as these may be managed by the city in some areas. Woodbury Heights, Park Hills, and Royal Oaks are the neighborhoods where boulevard trees are most likely city trees. Call the Public Works Department at 651-714-3720 if you have questions.

Learn more at the MDA website.

2. What is the Rainbow Treecare discount treatment program?: The City of Woodbury has partnered with Rainbow Treecare to offer residents a new discount program for preventative treatment of their ash trees against emerald ash borer (EAB).

3. What are the advantages of treatment?: The entire community benefits from a mature tree canopy. An average ash tree in Woodbury will keep pollution from rivers and lakes, reduce CO2 in the atmosphere by 600 or more pounds every year, and produce the cooling effect of 10 room-size air conditioners operating 20 hours per day. Treating an ash tree for 20 years is more cost-effective than removal and replacement.

4. How do I know if my trees qualify?: Rainbow Treecare will inspect the tree(s) at no cost to determine if treatment is the best option. The tree must be in good condition, showing no more than 30% of canopy decline if infested, at least 10 inches in diameter, and is not competing with other trees or infrastructure.

5. I'm interested in learning more about the discount program.: If you're interested in learning more about the discount program or would like to schedule a tree inspection with Rainbow Treecare, call 952-767-6920 or visit the Rainbow Tree Care website.

6. Why is the city removing ash trees in parks and public property when treatment options are available?: Not all ash trees can be treated. Also, it would be too costly to treat thousands of ash trees on city property. Treatment is more affordable for residents with one or two ash trees on their property. The city is replacing ash trees it removes with a variety of species.

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Parks & Trails - Replacement Plan & Funding

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1. What is a franchise fee?

Utility franchise fees are commonly found across Minnesota and the country as a way to fund city operations. Under Minnesota Statute (216B.36), cities can impose a fee on utility companies that use the public rights-of-way to deliver service. These utilities then pass on these charges to utility customers on monthly bills. As fees are collected through monthly customer bills, utilities then return the fees collected back to the city.

The Woodbury Audit and Investment Commission and Woodbury Parks and Natural Resources Commission worked together throughout 2020 to analyze franchise fees and other funding options and develop recommendations for community input and City Council consideration.

Replacement Plan Funding Recommendations Report (PDF)

2. What will the cost impacts to residents and businesses be?

Multiple funding options are under consideration (as detailed in the recommendations report). One of these options (Option 1A) would use a combination of the property tax and franchise fee to allocate approximately $2.9 million annually to address the parks and trails replacement funding shortfall.

The estimated franchise fee impact to Woodbury property owners would be $5 per month (total for gas and electric) for most residential properties. The franchise fee for larger commercial properties will be more, with many variables influencing the final estimate. See below, or reference page 11 in the Replacement Plan Funding Recommendations Report (PDF).

Proposed Monthly Franchise Fees	Option 1A: Blended (Mid End Fee)
Electric Service
Residential	$3.25
Small Commercial/Industrial, Non-demand	$3.50
Small Commercial/Industrial, Demand	$23
Large Commercial/Industrial	$90
Public Street Lighting	$8
Gas Service
Residential	$1.75
Commercial Gas Service - Xcel Energy
Commercial Firm, Non-demand	$10
Commercial Firm, Demand	$100
Small Interruptible	$90
Medium/Large Interruptible	$55
Firm Transportation	N/A
Commercial/Industrial Gas Service - CenterPoint Energy (Estimated)
Commercial A Less than 1,500 therms/year	$10
Commercial/Industrial B 1,500 less than or less than 5,000 therms/year	$10
Commercial/Industrial C greater than 5,000 therms/year	$100
Small Volume Dual Fuel A less than 120,000 therms/year	$90
Small Volume Dual Fuel B greater than 120,000 therms/year	$90
Large Volume Dual Fuel greater than 1,999 therms peak day	$55

If approved, the collection of the monthly franchise fee through Xcel Energy and CenterPoint Energy utility bills is planned to start in January 2022.

3. What is the estimated financial impact to non-residential properties?: The estimated franchise fee impact to the majority of Woodbury non-residential properties (for Option 1A) would be $10 per month for gas and $3.50 per month for electricity. Larger non-residential utility users may have a higher fee applied.

4. Do other cities collect franchise fees?

Many other cities collect franchise fees. Below is a chart comparing franchise fees between comparable cities (adjacent cities and cities over 40,000 excluding St. Paul and Minneapolis):

Gas and Electric Monthly Franchise Fees

5. What are the next steps to implementing a franchise fee?: The City of Woodbury currently has franchise ordinances in the City Code. However, these franchises have expired, and proceeding with the implementation of franchise fees will require these ordinances to be updated and renegotiated with utility providers. The public will be invited to participate in upcoming community outreach and engagement opportunities related to implementing a franchise fee.

In addition, ordinance amendments that result in changes to an established franchise fee take approximately 90 days to implement fully. After such approval, the city would be required to notify the Minnesota Public Utility Commission and then allow time for the utilities to implement into their billing processes.

6. Have more questions?: Questions about the franchise fee should be directed to Parks and Recreation at 651-714-3583 or via email.

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Planning - Comprehensive Plan

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1. What is a Comprehensive Plan?

A comprehensive plan is prepared in accordance with the Metropolitan Land Planning Act. When reviewed and approved, the 2040 Comprehensive Plan will serve as the main blueprint for future growth and development. The Metropolitan Council will review the plan to ensure that it conforms to regional planning assumptions and requirements. A comprehensive plan addresses:

Land use
Transportation
Water resources
Parks and trails
Housing
Resilience
Economic competitiveness
Implementation

For more information read over the Chapter 1: Purpose and Introduction (PDF)

2. What Is Woodbury's Approach to Long-Term Planning?

Woodbury's commitment to orderly growth ensures that new residents and businesses are welcomed while sustaining the quality and affordability of municipal services and infrastructure demanded by the community. The plan:

Continues to consciously manage the timing, location, and characteristics of growth.
Looks to the year 2040 when the city will be close to fully developed.
Promotes development standards that ensure aesthetic beauty, grow the tax base, provide effective infrastructure and enhance the natural environment within the community.

For more information read over our Chapter 3: Vision and Guiding Principles (PDF) and Chapter 4: Land Use (PDF)

3. What Is the Process for Updating the Plan?

To oversee the update of the plan, City Council appointed a resident task force consisting of current and former members of various city advisory commissions and several residents at-large. The task force facilitated an extensive public participation process focusing on:

Establishment of guiding principles (Summer 2016)
Technical land use and infrastructure components (Spring 2017)
Drafting the plan (2017-18)

The task force met 20 times prior to City Council approving the draft plan on July 25, 2018.

Task Force Members

Jennifer Santini, Chair
Andrea Date
Paul Rebholz
Roger Splinter, Vice-chair
David Filipiak
Mary Giuliani Stephens
Anne Burt
Roger Green
Jimmy Wong
James Currell
Don Place

For more information read over our Chapter 1: Purpose and Introduction (PDF)

4. How Does the 2040 Comprehensive Plan Affect Sustainable Water?

The plan commits to the city's "One Water" vision. Woodbury recognizes the connection between surface water, groundwater, and drinking water and the importance of considering impacts to all water resources when making decisions. The plan commits to providing abundant, safe drinking water that meets state and federal guidelines. The plan also commits to protecting and improving the water quality of lakes, wetlands, and streams, and to maintaining the natural communities within and dependent upon these water bodies.

For more information read over Chapter 11: Water Supply (PDF) and Chapter 12: Surface Water (PDF).

5. How Does the 2040 Comprehensive Plan Affect Future Job Growth?

Woodbury will continue efforts to attract, retain and expand a diversified business sector, in turn providing a variety of jobs, strengthening the community's tax base, adding to the high quality of life, and providing residents with options to both live and work in the community.

As many current commercial spaces complete build-outs, future job growth will chiefly occur through redevelopment as well as the development of the northeast area of Woodbury. With more than 400 acres of adjoining land guided for "Places to Work," the northeast area offers a unique opportunity to diversify the city's job and tax base. This diversification will occur by creating a business environment that will ultimately provide office/showroom, warehouse, distribution, and light industrial business that are currently under-represented within the city's tax base.

Specifically, the plan re-guides the land use of a variety of parcels away from "Places to Work" to "Mixed Use", "Gateway," and/or "High-Density Residential" that provide for job growth in a modern office setting. Previous comprehensive plans tended to silo places to work, places to shop, and places to live, whereas the plan promotes the concept that mixed-use areas, ancillary retail, and housing choice support places to work. From an infrastructure perspective, most of the next 5 million square feet of commercial and industrial uses will be in the northeast area of Woodbury and this land is already within the urban service area. As such, the bulk of the long-term infrastructure planning needed to promote job growth is complete.

For more information read over Chapter 4: Land Use (PDF) and Chapter 6: Economic Development (PDF).

6. How does the 2040 Comprehensive Plan affect the parks and recreation system?

The plan continues the city's commitment to the preservation and enhancement of the natural environment. Woodbury's parks and recreation system provides a wide variety of recreational opportunities that are accessible to residents through a combination of neighborhood and community parks, open space areas, trails, and recreation facilities. The plan provides the framework for maintaining, building, and improving Woodbury's parks and recreation system. It includes recommendations for parkland acquisition, park and trail development, and natural resources protection and restoration. Specifically, the plan identifies future park search areas, priority park acquisition parcels, and desired locations of future trails.

For more information read Chapter 8: Parks, Recreation and Open Space (PDF) and Chapter 9: Natural Resources (PDF)

7. How Does the 2040 Comprehensive Plan Affect Residential Neighborhoods and Housing Choices?

The plan encourages the development of diverse housing to accommodate people of all ages, income levels and family statuses. The plan identifies areas for residential growth in a range of types, styles and affordability while maintaining high-quality building standards and amenities.

Woodbury's vision seeks to offer housing choices to people in all stages of life from first homes to dwellings that allow graceful aging. The vision further recognizes that Woodbury neighborhoods vary from rural estates to traditional single-family neighborhoods to places with a mix of housing styles and densities. To achieve its vision, Woodbury establishes a variety of residential land uses and has planned for the infrastructure needed to ensure that both existing and future neighborhoods continue to be served by affordable, high-quality water, sewer and transportation systems.

For more information read over our Chapter 4: Land Use (PDF) and Chapter 5: Housing (PDF)

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Police - Paw Patrol

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1. What is Paw Patrol?

There are hundreds of dog walkers throughout the community at all times of the day, all days of the week, and in all weather conditions. Woodbury Public Safety wants to empower these individuals to take an active role in crime prevention in our community.

Paw Patrol is a crime awareness program that encourages dog walkers throughout the city to assist the Woodbury Public Safety Department as extra sets of eyes and ears in ongoing crime prevention efforts.

2. How does the program work?

Paw Patrol Training May 23, 2018 Valley Creek Apartments The program trains dog walkers how to effectively observe and report criminal activity as they routinely walk around their neighborhoods, in city parks and along city trails. Interested in participating? Fill out the Paw Patrol Registration Form for one our training dates (found on the Paw Patrol page) and attend the training.

Finally, collect your official Woodbury Paw Patrol bandanna and start walking!

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Prescribed Burns

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1. Why is prescribed fire being utilized?

Occasional fires are an important tool to help maintain the health of the native natural areas and prepare sites for management activities such as seeding. Fire helps to:

Recycle the nutrients stored in dead plant stems and leaves;
Stimulate growth of new shoots on existing plants
Increase flowering
Stimulate germination of native seeds in the soil;
Assist with control of undesirable plants; and
Improve wildlife habitat.

2. Will the fire harm wildlife?: Wildlife will move from the site or find areas such as burrows to hide from the fire. It is true that in rare instances an animal is overrun by the fire before it can find safe haven: this is the rare exception rather than a common occurrence. Ecologists plan the timing and type of fires to minimize risks wildlife, or their nests. For the long-term, fire benefits animals by maintaining or improving the overall wildlife habitat. On the day of the burn, there will be a lot of human activity in the area. This will also encourage animals to leave temporarily and find a hiding place in adjacent habitats.

3. Are there alternatives to using fire?: There are some other vegetation management tools that are often integrated with prescribed fire. Because prairie, savanna and oak forests are adapted to fire, the use of fire is important to provide a full range of benefits to vegetation. The most common tools integrated with fire are mowing, interseeding, and the spot application of herbicides. Because fire provides unique benefits to native plants, it is applied with specific goals in mind for each managed site.

4. How will smoke from the fire be managed?: When getting ready for the burn, ecologists create a plan that outlines what conditions must be present to manage smoke. Through proper planning and selection of wind direction, efforts are made to plan for smoke rising away from homes, roads, and other sensitive areas. However, homeowners who will be away from their home during daytime hours should keep windows closed.

5. Who will conduct the prescribed burn?: Prescribed fires are planned by experienced professionals who identify ahead of time the conditions necessary to safely conduct a prescribed fire. These include environmental factors such as air temperature, humidity, wind speed and direction. Other important aspects of planning include the number of people and types of equipment that will be on-hand at the burn, as well as what order the events will take place in.

6. What will we see after the burn is completed/How fast will the area green-up again?: Immediately after the burn, the ground will be black. With adequate moisture, there is generally new plant growth within one to two weeks. In some instances, supplemental seeding is performed at this time to improve vegetation quality, increase the quantity of flowers, and the long-term stability of an area.

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Recreation - Sponsorships

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1. How do we thank our partners?

We thank our partners in a variety of ways. Some ways include:

Business name and logo in our Parks and Recreation brochure; mailed three times per year to over 33,000 households and businesses in Woodbury and Newport.
Business name on promotional materials displayed at Central Park, Lookout Ridge, Eagle Valley Golf Course, and HealthEast Sports Center.
On-site promotion during the specific events (business booth, banners, signs, flyers, etc.).
Business name listed on sponsored event specific: InTouch email messages sent to over 7,000 individual emails, posts on the City of Woodbury and Parks and Recreation Department's Social Media channels, sponsorship page on City's website and on the REACH screens at Central Park, City Hall, and HealthEast Sports Center.

2. Why partner with us?

We are committed to working with businesses to build a strong and connected community. Partnering with us allows your business to:

Reach your prime audience at a chosen event;
Connect with your customers, potential employees, and other residents in or near Woodbury; and
Demonstrate a partnership and involvement with our community.

3. How to get involved?

Financial assistance at any level
Gift certificates or in-kind donations
Volunteer or provide a booth at an event

We enjoy working with businesses and will work with you to create an experience that is valuable to your business and our community.

Please contact Elizabeth Owens for additional information.

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Roadway Rehabilitation 2023

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1. What is the proposed scope of the project?

The project includes:

pavement replacement throughout the neighborhood;
watermain replacement under all roads in the project area, with the exception of Foxboro Court and sections of Montrose Road, Queens Drive and Cameroon Drive, which was replaced in the 1990s;
water and sanitary service replacement for all homes from the main to the right-of-way line;
existing trail rehabilitation on Queens Drive and Afton Road;
new trail construction on Queens Drive, Montrose Road, Courtly Road and Afton Road;
concrete curb and gutter replacement;
storm sewer improvements and replacement; and
sanitary sewer lining and replacement.

2. How do I request a rain garden in my yard?: If you would like your yard considered for a rain garden, please send an email to Mike Hejna or call 651-714-3593. Rain gardens will be installed as part of the project and maintained for 3 years during the establishment period. Following establishment, rain gardens will be maintained by the residents. Rain gardens will only be installed where requested.

3. Who maintains the trail?: The city will be responsible for all maintenance of the trail, including snow removal, pothole patching, crack sealing and pavement replacement.

4. Why trails and not sidewalks?

Staff is recommending 8-10 foot trails rather than 5 foot sidewalks. The roads being recommended for trails are either residential collector roadways or neighborhood roads with connectivity to major pedestrian generators including Ojibway Park, Chippewa Park, and Royal Oaks Elementary School. Feedback from the neighborhood last year indicated concerns for snow removal on sidewalks, and if trails are constructed residents are not responsible for snow removal. Trails also allow for two way bike traffic, which is expected based on the parks and schools located in the neighborhood.

The final design will look at opportunities to shift the roadway to reduce impacts on the side of the road with the proposed trail.

5. Can the trails be concrete rather than asphalt?: Staff recommends asphalt trails due to the smooth pavement surface asphalt offers (no joints in asphalt), reduced potential for root heaving of the pavement compared to concrete panels, future maintenance considerations and life cycle costs. Trails are being recommended to better accommodate bicyclists and pedestrians along with providing an adequate width for city equipment to provide snow removal when compared to 5-foot wide sidewalks.

6. What are the plans for traffic calming in Royal Oaks?: Staff is evaluating potential traffic calming measures throughout the neighborhood and will present recommendations at the Aug. 23 neighborhood meeting.

7. Will crosswalks be added in the neighborhood?: Crosswalk enhancements are being considered with the traffic calming measures and will be presented at the Aug. 23 meeting.

8. How will I access my home/mailbox during construction?

Construction will be phased to minimize impacts to property owners, but each phase will likely take approximately two months. During construction, there will be times when your driveway is not accessible for vehicles. Residents will be notified of temporary parking locations and timing through door hanger notices and InTouch email updates during construction. A hotline will also be available for residents to contact with any questions or concerns.

Residents with special access needs should contact the Engineering Department prior to construction. Staff will work with residents with concerns individually to ensure needs are met.

Temporary mailboxes will be provided during construction and will be coordinated with the Woodbury Post Office. The location of temporary mailboxes will change throughout construction and residents will be notified of their location with door hangers and InTouch email updates.

9. When will my street be reconstructed?: Phasing and timing of construction have not yet been determined, but the project is anticipated to take place in the summer of 2023 and 2024. The phasing plan will be available to residents prior to construction in the spring 2023, and each phase will take approximately two months. Minimal work is expected to take place between November 2023 and April 2024; all roads are anticipated be open during the winter.

10. How will I know if my trees are impacted? Will the city replace it?: A list of trees likely to be impacted will be available at the Aug. 23 neighborhood meeting and on the project website following the meeting. All trees removed due to construction will be replaced by the city. Any ash tree previously removed will also be replaced with the project. Residents will have an opportunity to choose from a selection of species, or may elect to have the city choose the species. If you had a tree removed, contact the Engineering Department to discuss preferred species.

11. Will roads be narrowed?: Staff is proposing that the streets with trails would be narrowed from 32 feet to 28 feet, including Queens Drive, Montrose Road and Courtly Road. Restricted street parking is not being recommended with the project. The standard width for new roads in the city is 28 feet, and there are approximately 75 miles of 28-foot roads with parking on both sides existing within the city. Narrowing roads has been shown to be an effective way to decrease vehicle speeds while maintaining the same function as 32-foot wide roadways. If vehicles are parked on both sides of a 32-foot wide roadway or a 28-foot wide roadway, each design only allows adequate width for one lane in the middle of the roadway for vehicles to travel. The 28-foot width has proven to provide adequate emergency services access with the occurrence of parking along both sides of neighborhood roadways.

12. How can we petition for sidewalks?: Residents should contact the city directly if they are interested in adding sidewalks to their street. Staff would consider sidewalks on other streets if a consensus from affected property owners in favor of sidewalks can be achieved.

13. Why are curbs being replaced?: Although some curb does not require replacement based on its current condition, all curb will be removed due to the proposed watermain and service replacement. Replacing watermain and services requires a large excavation through the existing curb requiring its replacement.

14. How will water be provided to homes during watermain construction?: Temporary water lines will be provided to homeowners during construction. There will be temporary water shutoffs (approximately eight hours each) when the water service is disconnected and again when the service is reconnected. Notice will be provided on homeowners’ doors before the water is shut off along property owners to plan for this disruption. Temporary water will be served through pipes above ground, so the water being provided is anticipated to be warm during the summer days.

15. How much will the project cost and how is it paid for?: Staff is preparing a report for the Aug. 23 neighborhood meeting with updated costs and estimated assessments for the project. In 2021, the estimated project cost was approximately $28 million. A majority of the project will be funded by the city with the remaining costs paid for through special assessments by neighborhood property owners. Special assessments are a charge imposed on properties for a particular improvement that benefits the owners of those selected properties. They are a levy a city uses to finance, or partially finance, a particular public improvement. The amount of the charge bears a direct relationship to the value of the benefit the property receives.

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Sewer

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1. Are you looking to pay your Utility Bill?: Access our Utility Billing and Rates.

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Toilet Rebate Program

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1. What type of toilet do I need?

To be eligible for the rebate, toilet MUST be WaterSense Certified. View a list of eligible toilets.
When shopping for a toilet, look for the WaterSense Label.
If the toilet is not WaterSense Certified, it will not be eligible for the rebate.

2. How much is the rebate?

Up to $100 per toilet- does not include tax and cannot exceed purchase price. For example, if the toilet cost is $95 + tax, the rebate would only be $95.
Maximum 2 toilets per household.

3. How will I know if funding is available?

The City has funds to issue 500 rebates between July 1st, 2022-June 2024.
Funds are available first come first serve.
The city's website will be updated once funds are running low.

4. Do I have to install the toilet first?

Yes, proof of installation is a requirement for the rebate.
The program is partially funded by a Metropolitan Council Water Efficiency Grant. To be eligible for the funding, proof of installation is required.

5. Who will install the toilet?

The homeowner is responsible for purchase and installation of the toilet. The homeowner may install the toilet themselves, or hire a contractor for installation. The cost of installation is not eligible for reimbursement.

The rebate can only be used for the cost of the toilet, not installation.

6. Do I need a permit to install a toilet?: No, a permit is not required to install a toilet.

7. Where do I dispose of my old toilet?: Contact your trash hauler, or visit the Washington County Disposal Directory and search "toilet."

8. When will I get my rebate?: Once the application is approved, a check will be mailed to your residence within 30 days.

9. I have a private well. Am I eligible?: Unfortunately, no. The grant funding is only eligible for propertied that are connected to the city water supply. The city will be evaluate future programs after the pilot program is complete in 2024.

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Water - PFAS

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1. What is PFAS and how did it get in the water?: PFAS stands for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances. The 3M Company made PFAS at its Cottage Grove facility beginning in the 1940s. They were commonly used in household and industrial products such as stain repellents, lubricants, fire retardants and suppressants, and more. PFAS wastes were disposed of at various locations in Washington County. The source of PFAS in Woodbury's groundwater has been identified as these disposal sites.

2. Can I drink the water?

Yes, the water the city delivers to customers meets all State of Minnesota standards and guidelines for PFAS.

View the Annual Drinking Water Report.

3. I have a private well. How do I know if I am impacted by PFAS?

Private wells are the responsibility of private landowners. Private landowners should consider having their well tested.

Complete the Private Drinking Water Well Sampling Request Form on the with MDH.

4. How many Woodbury municipal wells exceed PFAS water quality standards and guidelines?

Nine of the city's 19 wells currently exceed PFAS water quality standards and guidelines.

The temporary water treatment facility, located near the intersection of Valley Creek Road and Tower Drive, is currently treating water from four of these wells to meet water quality standards and guidelines for PFAS. The remaining five wells have been removed from service.

5. Which well is serving my home?: The City of Woodbury has a one-pressure-zone system. This means no one particular well serves a specific area. The water is distributed throughout the system and well usage is rotated frequently as part of regular operation.

6. How much will the temporary treatment plant cost and how will the project be funded?

Funding for the Woodbury temporary water treatment plant is provided through the 2018 settlement agreement between the State of Minnesota and 3M. This arrangement includes a $40 million provision for temporary facilities meeting the requirements of the 2007 settlement agreement between the same two parties. Total cost for construction of the temporary treatment plant was approximately $10.5 million.

Operation and maintenance costs are also covered under the $40 million provision. At this time it is projected to cost an average of approximately $600,000-$800,000 a year for operation and maintenance.

7. What type of private, at-home treatment options are available?: There is information on the MDH regarding the effectiveness of home treatment options.

8. Why was the temporary treatment plant constructed near Valley Creek Road and Tower Drive?: This is the most viable location. The property had been identified as a potential location for a water treatment facility for decades and is in close proximity to the three impacted wells that will be treated. A fourth impacted well also will be connected to the facility with a new water main. State funding for the project is predicated on the facility located on this property.

9. Will the construction of the temporary water treatment plant impact the nearby Tamarack Nature Preserve?: There is no anticipated impact on the preserve. Staff is working with several agencies, including the Department of Natural Resources and the Ramsey-Washington Watershed District, to ensure the natural areas surrounding the temporary water treatment facility are appropriately protected.

10. I didn't know PFAS was in the water or that a temporary water treatment plant was under consideration. Where can I learn more?

The city has been sharing updates about PFAS in the water since 2007 in the City Update newsletter, on the city's website, via its InTouch email notification system*, on its YouTube channel, and through the local media. Information also is provided in the annual Water Quality Report. Updates will continue to be provided through these channels. There also have been more than 30 public meetings on this topic since the beginning of 2019.

Review the PFAS Activity in Woodbury Timeline (PDF)

Information also is available on the MDH PFAS sites and what PFAS are, and the State of Minnesota's dedication to the settlement with 3M and the process for identifying long-term treatment solutions.

11. What is the long-term solution on treatment for PFAS and when will it be implemented?

The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency and Department of Natural Resources are leading the effort with the impacted communities under the 3M and Statement of Minnesota Settlement Agreement in identifying the long-term treatment solutions. In September 2020, the state announced three draft options for long-term treatment solutions.

View state's draft options*
Comments on State of Minnesota Conceptual Drinking Water Supply (PDF)
The public comment period closes December 10, 2020*

The Woodbury City Council passed a resolution in October 2019 declaring the community's goals for a long-term water treatment solution.

12. Who will pay for the long-term solution for treatment of PFAS?

Long-term solutions for the treatment of PFAS in drinking water are to be paid for from the approximately $700 million 3M and State of Minnesota Settlement Agreement that will go to east metro communities. Preliminary estimates indicate Woodbury’s long-term treatment facility will cost at least $150 million, maybe more, depending on several factors and other future possible changes to health standards and guidelines. It will be the largest public infrastructure project in the city’s history.

The city intends to use as much of the state settlement money to cover the costs as allowed, but other funding measures (utility rate changes, other state/federal funding sources, etc.) may be needed to close the gap if the city determines to treat the entire system. Any city funding for this project will require City Council approval.

For details, visit the State of Minnesota's website dedicated to the settlement with 3M and the process for identifying long-term treatment solution.

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Water - Water Softening

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1. Do you get blue, green or pink stains in your sinks at home?: For some Woodbury residents this may not be a problem, but for others the problem just will not go away. Those blue and green stains could be a sign that your water softener is regenerating too often. Over-regenerating has a tendency to make water become corrosive toward the copper pipes and faucet fixtures in your home. The pink stains may be caused by the kind of salt you're using in your softener. Don't worry though; these problems are easier to correct than you think!

2. Are there different types of salts I can use in my softener?

Yes, there are three main types of salts that can be used in softeners.

Sodium Pellets are the most commonly used type of salt in water softeners. They are manmade and usually come in a yellow bag. Some softeners may recommend rock salt, which is actually mined, over sodium pellets. However, it's the same type of salt.
Potassium Pellets can be used as a sodium substitute and is recommended for those who are watching their sodium intake. Potassium pellets are compatible with any water softener and can be purchased at many of the same stores where sodium pellets are sold for about the same cost.
Solar Salt comes from evaporated seawater and may sometimes leave a pink "bio-film" or stain in sinks and tubs. The pink film is actually a harmless bacteria that comes from the sea salt. If this stain is an annoyance in your home, the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) recommends switching to one of the other two types of salts. Once the new salt has had a chance to completely replace the solar salt in your system, then purchase some water softener filter cleaner to clean out your softener as instructed in your owner's manual or on the cleaner label.

A major drawback of salt-based ion-exchange water softeners is the chloride they produce and discharge into septic or sewage systems. Chloride from salt can seep into and pollute groundwater from on-site septic systems. Chloride also enters the environment via wastewater treatment facilities. Because facilities aren’t designed to remove it, chloride ends up in rivers, lakes and streams. High levels of chloride in the environment are toxic to fish and aquatic creatures. For more information, visit the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency website at https://www.pca.state.mn.us/water/skinny-water-softeners

3. What else should I know?

New homes built with copper pipes are especially susceptible to corrosive water conditions because the copper pipes have not had a chance to become coated inside. As recommended by the MDH, it is best NOT to soften the water in a new house for a period of three to five months after occupancy. This can be done by simply bypassing the water softener's filter medium. See your owner's manual for directions on bypassing your softener. Many new homes are built with PEX and not copper.

The MDH also recommends NOT softening the cold water supply to your kitchen faucet or your outside hose connections. This will significantly decrease the amount of sodium in your diet and save you money by not softening water unnecessarily.

Having your water softener properly set for household size and 13.5 grains of hardness will reduce salt use and increase efficiency in water use by avoiding unnecessary regeneration.

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Water Meters

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1. I received a new water meter from the city. Why did my water bill increase?

Residential water meters have a life expectancy of 14-16 years. As they age, the accuracy of the meter declines, which may result in under charging of water use. It is not uncommon of new meters to reflect more accurate use, often showing increases as the old meters were under-reading.

Water meter replacement throughout the city began in 2017 and is expected to continue through 2027. Learn more by visiting the utility meter update page.

It is possible that based on the more accurate meter, some residents may have entered the next level of our water conservation tiered rate structure during this recent period of higher use due to drought.

2. How do drought conditions affect my water use and utility bill?

The extreme drought conditions this summer (especially compared to last year’s wet summer) has led to more water use. Even with the city’s elevated lawn watering restrictions (which did not go into effect until July 27), residents likely used more water on lawns and for outdoor activities compared to 2020 and several preceding years.

Residents may have entered the next level of the city’s water conservation tiered rate structure during this recent period of higher use due to drought.

3. Am I able to verify water usage on my own with my water meter?

Residents are able to verify water usage numbers with older meters as well as new meters. If the new meter has an LCD display, it is light sensitive and needs to be activated by a light source, such as a flashlight. Review the handout on how to check your water meter (PDF), or Watch a video on how to read your water meter.

4. My water usage seems high; how should I check for leaks?

If you are concerned you have a leak in your home causing high water use, you should check inside and outside your home for leaks.

The Environmental Protection Agency’s Fix-a-Leak page can help you detect leaks on your own. Watch a video on how to check for leaks.

You can also send an email to Public Works or call 651-714-3720 for a courtesy check.

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City capital cost included in the overall Gold Line project cost (pending final Council approval):

City design cost related to optional project enhancements:

City capital cost related to optional project enhancements (pending final Council approval):

Consulting costs related to the Gold Line project:

City cost related to future maintenance (annual)

Based on the FTA STOPS model, the following estimates have been provided by the Gold Line Project Office on riders per station:

Jobs adjacent to the stations (data from the U.S. Census Bureau, Center for Economic Studies, 2016):

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