HomeMy WebLinkAboutPark and Recreation Advisory Commission Packet 04-11-1991Regular Meeting of the Park and Recreation Advisory Commission
April 11, 1991, 7:00 p.m.
AGENDA
1. Call to Order
2. Approval of Minutes
3. Visitor Presentations
a. Athletic Associations
b. Staff
c. Others
4. Report on Past Council Action
a. Parkers Lake rental policy approved
b. Park closing times approved
c. Annual report accepted
d. Budget cuts approved
5. Unfinished Business
a. Special facilities - continue discussion
b. Bass Lake/Parkers Lake playfields update
c. Estimated cost for trail construction projects
6. New Business
a. Sidewalks/trails (referred from Council)
b. Annual park tour - pick date
c. Request for park at 10th Ave & South Shore Drive (presentation by
Sgt. Larry Rogers)
7. Commission Presentation
8. Staff Communication
9. Adjournment
Next regular PRAC meeting - May 9
MEMO
CITY OF PLYMOUTH
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD, PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447
DATE: April 9, 1991
TO: PRAC
FROM: Eric J. Blank, Director of Parks and Recreation
SUBJECT: APRIL AGENDA - CANCELLED MARCH MEETING
The items that were scheduled to be discussed at your March meeting have been
carried over to the April meeting. Please bring your March packets to the
Thursday night meeting.
The item on Estimated Trail Construction Costs has been updated, and new maps
have been enclosed with this agenda packet.
Other items scheduled for discussion and not included in your packet will be
distributed Thursday night at the meeting.
EB/np
Minutes of the Park and Recreation Advisory Commission Meeting
February 14, 1991
Page 6
Present: Chair Freels, Commissioners Anderson, Beach, Rosen and Waage; staff
Bisek, Blank, Pederson and Public Works Director Fred Moore
Absent: Commissioner Hanson (due to death in family)
1. CALL TO ORDER
Chair Freels called the February meeting to order at 7:05 p.m. in the
Council Chambers.
2. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
A motion was made by Commissioner Beach and seconded by Commissioner Waage
to approve the minutes of the January meeting as presented. The motion
carried with all ayes.
3. VISITOR PRESENTATIONS
a. Athletic Associations. None were present.
b. Staff. Mary Bisek thanked the commissioners for their help with the
bonfire at the Fire and Ice Festival and briefly discussed the success
of this year's event. Chair Freels commented that the wood chips that
were delivered by maintenance really helped to control the mud that
had developed around the bonfire and he suggested that additional
s'more sticks would be helpful next year.
Mary discussed the warming house situation explaining that they had
been closed for several days in a row in early February due to
unseasonably warm weather. Then when temperatures did get back to
normal, it took a few days to get the ice back in good condition,
after which it snowed, followed by a day of extremely cold wind
chills, all of which added up to 11 days in a row of being closed.
She added that rinks are scheduled to close for the winter season on
February 18.
The employee of the month is a warming house attendant, Brian Olson,
who was unable to be at the meeting to receive his certificate,
because he was taking a test at the University of Minnesota.
Mary explained that the Plymouth Middle School Ski Club had a good
season with several Friday after school ski trips, including one over
night trip to Spirit Mountain on February 8. The final trip of the
year is scheduled for March 1.
A Youth Leadership Retreat is planned in March for Grades 8-11, co-
sponsored by Plymouth Park and Recreation, the American Red Cross,
Minneapolis Camp Fire and the Robbinsdale and Wayzata School
Districts. The two-day retreat will be held at Camp Tanadoona in
Chanhassen. Scholarships are available for those who cannot afford
the $28 fee. Chair Freels indicated that his company would be willing
to help financially with any future events of this kind.
February 1991 PRAC Minutes
Page 7
Mary briefly discussed how budget cuts may affect some programs for
the summer season, such as closing of the West Beach and a reduction
in the Playground in the Streets program. Further cuts could affect
other programs.
C. Others.
4. REPORT ON PAST COUNCIL ACTION
a. 1991 Rental Policy and Fee Schedule. Council approved the fees and
policies proposed for park facilities in 1991.
b. Parkers Lake Rink Lights. Approval of lights at Parkers Lake skating
rinks is pending further research by staff.
5. UNFINISHED BUSINESS
a. Special facilities - continue discussion. No discussion.
b. Annual Report. A MOTION WAS MADE BY COMMISSIONER ROSEN AND SECONDED
BY COMMISSIONER BEACH TO ACCEPT THE 1990 ANNUAL REPORT AND FORWARD IT
TO THE CITY COUNCIL. THE MOTION CARRIED WITH ALL AYES.
C. Plavfield Project Update. The Financial Task Force has meetings
scheduled through the first week in March, so no recommendations on
the playfield projects have been made at this time. Director Blank
has received no information indicating if one, both or neither
playfield will be recommended for development.
6. NEW BUSINESS
a. Comprehensive Plan Review Public Hearing - Schmidt Lake Road Trail and
Neighborhood Park. Director Blank stated that approval by the Park
Commission of the park and trail portion of the Comprehensive Plan
occurred in July of 1990 as part of the overall updating of the City's
System Plan. These updates were then forwarded to the Metropolitan
Council for their approval. Since that time, new requests have been
received by the City for a trail on Schmidt Lake Road and funding at
the new Kimberly Lane Elementary School by School Dist. 284. Director
Blank reviewed with PRAC the trail plan they adopted in 1990, and
asked them to consider if a trail is necessary on Schmidt Lake Road
and if so, should it be a Class I or Class II. He further stated that
if PRAC feels a trail is necessary on Schmidt Lake Road, should the
proposed trail along the railroad track be eliminated. He explained
the problems that would be encountered if the City attempts to
construct the trail along the railroad tracks, including the wetlands
it would cross, steep terrain in some areas, and constructing a trail
under the Soo railroad bridge which would mean getting an easement
from the railroad.
Arden Doering, 5210 Yorktown Lane, spoke in favor of installing trail
along Schmidt Lake Road between Highway 169 and Zachary Lane, due to
the extremely heavy traffic and the fact that there is no place to
currently walk along there. He prefers that it be placed on the north
side of Schmidt Lake Road and that it be a Class I trail.
February 1991 PRAC Minutes
Page 8
Shawna Fleming, 10745 55th Avenue, lives in Harrison Hills and stated
there are at least 50 children living in this development, and they do
not have safe access to Zachary Playfield or Timber Shores Park,
because Zachary Lane has no sidewalks. She is requesting that when
Zachary is upgraded to four lanes, sidewalk or trail be put in with a
crosswalk of some kind to get people safely across Zachary. Right now
Zachary has no paved shoulder, only gravel, and she feels this
situation is very dangerous. She asked if the intersection of Schmidt
Lake Road and Zachary would have a traffic light. Director Blank
stated he wasn't certain.
Chair Freels suggested that this issue be referred to the City
engineers and a traffic consultant. He feels that an extra stop light
along Zachary Lane that would allow people to cross over to the
playfield or Timber Shores Park would not be very practical due to the
high cost of installing it, and although a marked crosswalk is not a
costly item to install, he feels that people do not pay attention to
them. The other commissioners agreed with this.
Commissioner Rosen stated that based on past experience, he believes
the City would not install trail on both sides of Zachary Lane. Mrs.
Fleming said she was told at the time they purchased their home that
Zachary would have trail on both sides of the street.
City Engineer Fred Moore arrived at the meeting at this time.)
Director Blank explained that a trail is proposed to be constructed
along the west side of Zachary providing access to Timber Shores Park
and the Zachary Playfield. This would permit residents living in
Harrison Hills to travel south to Schmidt Lake Road and then cross
over to the west side of Zachary at the intersection, which may have a
traffic light within five years or when traffic counts warrant,
according to City engineer Fred Moore.
Mrs. Fleming asked about the possibility of a crosswalk somewhere in
the vicinity of 53rd or 55th and Zachary. Mr. Moore stated that there
are City guidelines for constructing sidewalks, which is based on
concentrations of the population crossing streets at certain points,
and this would have to be studied. He stated that just because you
install a crosswalk doesn't mean people will cross there.
Director Blank stated he believes it would be appropriate to get a
recommendation from a traffic consultant on how best to get people
from the east side of Zachary over to Timber Shores Park and the
Zachary Playfield. Mr. Moore agreed that if there are concentrated
numbers of pedestrians crossing Zachary at 53rd Avenue, a crosswalk
might be appropriate here.
Mrs. Fleming said she brought this issue up now because she feels it
should be considered along with the widening of Zachary to four lanes.
Commissioner Rosen agreed and suggested that the City consider all
future trail locations and trail connections at the time that roads
are being developed, so these projects could be done in conjunction
with one another. He indicated that PRAC is very concerned about the
safety of Plymouth's residents who use the trails and parks. He
February 1991 PRAC Minutes
Page 9
further suggested that the routing of the proposed trail along Zachary
should be studied carefully when the widening of Zachary is
undertaken. .
Chair Freels closed the public hearing at 7:49 p.m.
A MOTION WAS MADE BY COMMISSIONER BEACH AND SECONDED BY COMMISSIONER
ANDERSON TO RECOMMEND AN AMENDMENT TO THE COMPREHENSIVE TRAIL PLAN TO
INCLUDE A TRAIL ON SCHMIDT LAKE ROAD, TO REMOVE THE TRAIL ALONG THE
RAILROAD TRACK WHERE IT IS NOT YET BUILT, AND FURTHER, TO WORK WITH
THE ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT TO DETERMINE WHETHER THE TRAIL SHOULD BE ON
THE NORTH OR SOUTH SIDE OF SCHMIDT LAKE ROAD. THE MOTION CARRIED WITH
ALL AYES.
The City has recently received a request from District 284 to help
fund a playground at the new Kimberly Lane Elementary School, sited at
Old 9 and Kimberly Lane. If PRAC believes that a park at Kimberly
Lane makes more sense than a full scale neighborhood park proposed
elsewhere in the Elm Creek driving neighborhood, the comprehensive
plan must be amended. Other issues that must be addressed include the
150,000-$200,000 that would be saved by building a playground as
opposed to building a full neighborhood park, would County Road 9 be a
deterrent for people on the north side getting to and from Kimberly
Lane school, and will there be a need for an additional neighborhood
park if Hollydale remains a golf course. Another issue to consider at
this time is that sewer will only be extended west of Vicksburg as far
as the new school, but this will allow for development southeast of
the school. City engineer, Fred Moore, believes there will be a high
concentration of residential development in this area. He also stated
that the school district bought more land than it may need and thinks
maybe the City could negotiate a deal with them for park use.
Commissioner Beach pointed out that even though Kimberly Lane school
could be designated as the new park site in this neighborhood by
amending the comprehensive plan, it still must meet other funding
criteria before funding will be granted. She feels it would be better
to stick with the original plan to build a neighborhood park in the
southwest corner of Hollydale golf course, assuming that if a
developer buys Hollydale, he would have to dedicate land or money to
the City for a neighborhood park. Mr. Moore commented that at the
present time, Hollydale is guided public/semi-public, and before a
developer could do anything, he would have to request reguiding of
this area. He believes this area could be fully developed within 10-
12 years, with some development taking place within five years if
sewer goes in north of County Road 9 within that time frame. At the
present time, it is assumed that Hollydale will remain a golf course
indefinitely. Commissioner Rosen commented that he hopes the City
would acquire it for use by the residents rather than allowing a
developer to buy it if it does go up for sale.
A MOTION WAS MADE BY CHAIR FREELS AND SECONDED BY COMMISSIONER ROSEN
TO AMEND THE COMPREHENSIVE PARK PLAN DESIGNATING KIMBERLY LANE
ELEMENTARY SCHOOL AS THE NEW PARK/SCHOOL SITE IN THE ELMCREEK DRIVING
NEIGHBORHOOD. THE MOTION CARRIED WITH FOUR AYES. COMMISSIONER BEACH
VOTED NAY.
February 1991 PRAC Minutes
Page 10
Commissioner Waage asked if the originally proposed location for a
neighborhood park in this area could be reinstated at a later time.
Director Blank said that it could, because the comprehensive plan is
reviewed every other year due to changing development plans.
b. Review Land Acquisition Needs. Director Blank reviewed land
acquisition needs that he believes are crucial for the continued
growth of the park system. The Forster property lying immediately
west of Zachary Playfield is for sale and is the best property
available east of I-494. Some advantages of acquiring this site
include its location, size, and easy access from County Road 9 and
Zachary Lane.
A MOTION WAS MADE BY COMMISSIONER ROSEN AND SECONDED BY COMMISSIONER
ANDERSON RECOMMENDING THAT THE COUNCIL AUTHORIZE NEGOTIATING WITH THE
FORSTERS TO ACQUIRE THEIR LAND WEST OF ZACHARY PLAYFIELD. THE MOTION
CARRIED WITH ALL AYES.
The proposed playfield site owned by US Homes at the corner of Dunkirk
Lane and Old 9 is being considered by the School District as their
primary site for a junior or senior high. Director Blank stated he
believes it would be in the best interests of the community to work
jointly with the school district in the planning and development of a
park/school project, but each group would separately own their sites.
A MOTION WAS MADE BY COMMISSIONER ROSEN AND SECONDED BY COMMISSIONER
WAAGE RECOMMENDING TO THE COUNCIL THAT STAFF BEGIN NEGOTIATING WITH
U.S. HOMES FOR THE ACQUISITION OF PROPERTY AT OLD 9 AND DUNKIRK LANE,
AND FURTHER, THAT THE CITY WORK COOPERATIVELY WITH THE SCHOOL DISTRICT
FOR THE FUTURE SITING OF A PARK/SCHOOL FACILITY THAT WOULD BE JOINTLY
PLANNED AND DEVELOPED BUT SEPARATELY OWNED. THE MOTION CARRIED WITH
ALL AYES.
Land may need to be acquired north of County 9 between Fernbrook Lane
and I-494 for a future neighborhood park. Director Blank stated that
some development interests have surfaced at this time, but nothing is
definite. He explained that park dedication probably would not be
enough to meet the needs of this park and that additional land may
have to be acquired. Staff will keep the Commission informed on
development in this area.
C. 1991 CIP Proiects. Director Blank explained that the City Council has
not yet officially adopted the 1991-95 CIP. PRAC has the opportunity
to further review the projects proposed for 1991. He stated that the
northeast neighborhood park will have to be delayed because the
necessary land dedication has not occurred. Commissioners responded
that if no neighborhood park is being considered in 1991, the City may
wish to use those funds for the construction of more trails, including
the trail along Schmidt Lake Road. In choosing trails, safety should
be the number one priority. It was decided that the construction of
four tennis courts in Plymouth Creek Playfield should remain in the
1991 CIP, along with the improvements to the Shiloh and Gleanloch
neighborhood park playgrounds. Bridges should be replaced in Fazendin
and Four Seasons neighborhood parks. Playfield irrigation at
February 1991 PRAC Minutes
Page 11
Ridgemount should also be done. Projects recommended for delay until
1992 include the expansion of the Zachary Playfield parking lot and
parking along Zachary Lane for the Timber Shores city park. It was
suggested that this be done at the same time as the upgrading of
Zachary Lane.
A MOTION WAS MADE BY COMMISSIONER ANDERSON AND SECONDED BY
COMMISSIONER ROSEN APPROVING THE RECOMMENDED CHANGES TO THE 1991 CIP.
THE MOTION CARRIED WITH ALL AYES.
d. Proposed Expansion of Public Safety Building/Amphitheater Area.
Director Blank explained that the proposed Public Safety building may
be sited in the area of the City Center natural amphitheater.
Construction will not affect this summer's Music in Plymouth but could
have an effect on the concert the following year. Director Blank will
keep the Commission informed as the public safety building plans take
shape.
e. Parkers Lake Pavilion Rental Policy & Fee Schedule. Mary Bisek
presented the 1991 rental policy and fee schedule for the Parkers Lake
Pavilion and noted that fees are proposed to increase in all areas by
about four percent. The other recommended change is allowing fund
raising by rental groups with prior approval by the City Council.
A MOTION WAS MADE BY COMMISSIONER ROSEN AND SECONDED BY COMMISSIONER
ANDERSON RECOMMENDING APPROVAL OF THE 1991 PARKERS LAKE PAVILION
RENTAL POLICY AND FEE SCHEDULE. THE MOTION CARRIED WITH ALL AYES.
f. Park Closing Times. The only park that has an official closing time
stated in a City ordinance is Parkers Lake Park, which was established
at 11 p.m. Director Blank feels it would be helpful if all parks had
official closing times. All parks currently have signage stating when
they close. Director Blank's recommendation is to close East and West
beach at 9 p.m., all neighborhood parks at 10 p.m., all community
playfields at 10:30 p.m, and Parkers Lake at 11 p.m.
A MOTION WAS MADE BY COMMISSIONER ANDERSON AND SECONDED BY
COMMISSIONER WAAGE APPROVING THE OFFICIAL CLOSING TIMES OF PARKS AND
BEACHES AS RECOMMENDED BY DIRECTOR BLANK. THE MOTION CARRIED WITH ALL
AYES.
7. COMMISSION PRESENTATION
Several commissioners commented that they could not attend the March
meeting if it is held on the 14th, so it was decided to postpone it until
the 21st. Chair Freels will be out of town on that date, so Vice Chair
Rosen will preside over the March meeting.
8. STAFF COMMUNICATION
The City of Chaska is having an open house to celebrate their new
community center and has invited City of Plymouth officials to attend.
9. ADJOURNMENT
The meeting adjourned at 9:34 p.m.
MEMO
CITY OF PLYMOUTH
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD, PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447
DATE: April 5, 1991
TO: PRAC
FROM: Eric J. Blank, Director of Parks and Recreation
SUBJECT: ESTIMATED TRAIL CONSTRUCTION COSTS
At your meeting of February 14, you requested that I give you further
information with regard to the estimated cost for completing certain trail
segments.
The attached information outlines eight trail segments throughout the
community totaling approximately $297,200 worth of trail construction. I
believe all of these are worthy projects and deserve your consideration for
1991 improvements.
EB/np
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
ESTIMATED TRAIL COSTS
Soo Railroad/Zachary Lane Floating boardwalk 10,000
51st Avenue Nathan Lane 2,800 ft. x $14/ft. 39,200
Schmidt Lake Road (Pineview to 169) 11,500 ft. x $14/ft. 161,000
Co. Rd. 9 (Zachary to Nathan) 3,000 ft. x $14/ft. 42,000
Plymouth Creek Park 1,900 ft. x $14/ft. 26,600
Connect St. Mary's Park to Ridgemount 7,000
Zachary Lane (Co. 9 to school) 600 ft. x $14/ft. 8,400
Co. Rd. 6 west of 101 to Imperial Hills entrance 3.000
297,200
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F. RJ—
CITY OF PLYMOUTH
SUMMARY OF FINANCIAL TASK FORCE REPORT
APRIL 22, 1991
The purpose of the financial task force has been to review the financial history of
the city, evaluate Plymouth's current financial position, project the City's future financial
needs and make recommendations to meet the future financial needs of the City.
CONCLUSIONS:
1. The City of Plymouth has been well managed on a fiscally conservative
basis. The City has utilized available funding methods in an effective
manner without overextending itself with general obligation bonds or tax
increment financing.
2. Due to the anticipated continual growth of the City, the general fund levy
limitations currently mandated by the state (an annual increase of 3 % plus
one-half of population growth) will create general fund deficits in future
years. Under these limitations the City's portion of total property taxes will
continue to decrease.
3. Cuts in State Homestead and Agricultural Credit Aids (HACA) will be less
serious for Plymouth than for many other cities. HACA accounts for
approximately 12% of Plymouth's 1991 budget, other cities may receive as
much as 50% of their revenue from HACA.
4. The capital cost of new and replacement streets, sewer and water
infrastructure has been and can continue to be funded through special
assessments and utility charges.
5. Through prudent management of its financial resources the City has built
substantial reserves which are available to fund future capital improvements.
As summarized on the attached schedule, the City's estimated December 31,
1990 fund balances were $85 million. We believe $13.6 million of these
funds are available for current and future capital improvement projects. By
the year 2004 an estimated additional $7.1 million in interest earned on
special assessments will be available for capital improvements.
RECOMMENDATIONS:
Maintain a general fund reserve of 40% of the annual budget to meet short-
term revenue shortfalls or unanticipated one-time extraordinary expenditures.
The current balance of $3.9 million is approximately 40% of the current
budget.
2. Before committing to major new capital projects the City should also
evaluate their impact on future operating and maintenance costs.
3. $13.6 million of the City's current discretionary funds should be used to
establish a permanent Capital Improvement Fund (CIF) for funding major
new capital projects. A minimum balance should be maintained in the CIF
by limiting expenditures.
4. Financial forecasts beyond one year are necessary:
a. The City staff should develop five year summary operating
revenue and expenditure projections for all budgeted funds.
b. Establish a formal strategic planning function that will work
with the City Council to analyze and select goals and
objectives for the City.
5. Establish a Contingency/Disaster Recovery Plan for all phases of City
government.
6. Analyze the City's operational effectiveness including the quality of service,
functional organization, staffing levels, performance standards, etc. Since
government isn't faced with the market place economics of the private
sector, it is critical the city's human resources be managed for maximum
effectiveness.
7. Seek to increase citizen participation and input in all aspects of local
government including voluntary participation in park and recreation activities
and membership on City commissions and committees.
8. Several specific capital projects were referred to the financial task force for
input. We believe that the public works, public safety and related City
Center improvements are needed and would be properly funded through the
Capital Improvement Fund. We also recommend that these projects should
be built in phases so as to minimize the construction of excess space before
it is needed.
Prior to the development of the Parkers Lake and Bass Lake Playfields, we
recommend that the City more fully assess the current needs for such
expenditures. These parks should also be built in phases so as to minimize
over building these facilities.
9. Obtain broad-based citizen input and consensus before undertaking any
further work on a community center.
10. The City Council should refrain from purchasing the site for the proposed
senior citizen housing project until such time as a market study and
feasibility study have been completed. The City should consider the cost to
taxpayers versus the benefits and risks.
11. To carry on the function begun by the Financial Task Force, the City
Council should appoint a permanent Financial Advisory Committee.
City of Plymouth F'mancial Task Force Report
Analysis of Fund Balances as of December 31. 1990
Public Safety 3,700,000
Public Works 3,800,000
Parks (1) 3,000,000
10,500,000
1) May be partially funded from future park dedication fees.
Estimated
Fund Unencumbered Required Recommended Discretionary
Balance Committed Balance Reserves Reserves Reserves
General Fund 3,900,000 3,900,000 3,900,000 0
Recreation 18,000 18,000 18,000 0
Police State Aid 178,000 215,000 37,000) 37,000) 0
Building & Equipment 1,500,000 104,000 1,396,000 1,396,000 0
Forestry 15,000 15,000 15,000 0
Parkers Lake Cemetery Maint 49,000 49,000 49,000 0
Transit System 130,000 80,000 50,000 50,000 0
Community Devel Block Grant 47,000 47,000 47,000 0
Project Administration 828,000 828,000 428,000 400,000
City & Community Parks 830,000 830,000 330,000 500,000
Neighborhood Parks 379,000 379,000 379,000 0
Park Replacement 60,000 60,000 60,000 0
Public Facilities 1,221,000 1,221,000 1,221,000 0
Housing & Redevelopment _ 25,000 25,000 25,000 0
General Obl. Debt Sery 89,000 89,000 89,000 0
Tax Increment Bond Debt Sery 6,111,D00 6,111,000 6,111,000 0
Special Assess. Debt Sery 27,000,000 27,000,000 27,000,000 0
Gen. Capital Proj Const 310,000 310,000 310,000 D
Minnesota State Aids Const 862,000 862,000 862,000 0
Special Assessment Const 13,858,000 13,858,000 13,858,000 0
Permanent Improv Revolv. 12,341,000 800,000 11,541,000 1,200,000 10,341,000
Water 5,900,000 5,900,000 4,500,000 1,000,000
Sewer 2,800,000 2,800,000 2,800,000 400,000
Central Stores 180,000 180,000 180,000 0
Central Equipment 1,875,000 1,875,000 875,000 1,000,000
Risk Management 4,500,000 4,500,000 4,500,000 0
Parkers Lake perpetual 70,000 70,000 70,000 0
85,076,000 1,199,000 83,877,000 48,325,000 21,911,000 13,641,000
Estimated future interest earnings 1991 through 2004 7,135,000
20,776,000
Proposed Projects:
Public Safety 3,700,000
Public Works 3,800,000
Parks (1) 3,000,000
10,500,000
1) May be partially funded from future park dedication fees.
MEMO
CITY OF PLYMOUTH
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD, PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447
DATE: March 18, 1991
TO: PRAC
J.
FROM: Eric J. Blank, Director of Parks and Recreation
SUBJECT: STUDY OF SIDEWALKS/TRAILS
At their February 4 meeting (see attached minutes) the City Council asked that
a study be done on the development of sidewalks and/or trails within the City
of Plymouth. Fred Moore and I have been reviewing this subject for the last
couple of weeks, and we have come up with the following conclusions:
o Generally, sidewalks would be built on what is classified as minor
arterial, or major collector streets throughout the City. See attached
documents for definitions.
o In order to complete a sidewalk system within the City of Plymouth on
our minor arterials and major collectors, it would ultimately range
from between 60 and 80 miles of sidewalk on one side of the road alone.
Thus, 120 to 160 miles of sidewalk if you placed them on both sides of
all minor arterials and major collectors.
o The cost for building a five foot wide concrete sidewalk would be
roughly $16 per lineal foot. Or roughly $84,500 per mile. The
estimated cost to build the entire system on one side of the road would
then be between $5,000,000 and $6.7 million.
o The cost to plow a trail is roughly $27 per hour or per mile. There
would be other costs for repair and maintenance.
o The existing trail system plan was developed as a recreational system
connecting points of interest such as parks, schools, retail and
commercial areas.
o If you compare the thoroughfare guide plan (see map) with the existing
adopted comprehensive trail plan, you will see that they are almost an
identical match. I will have a large scale overlay map for your review
at the Commission meeting.
o Downtown Plymouth currently has an approved comprehensive sidewalk
plan. This plan calls for the construction of sidewalk on both sides
of all downtown roads by the developer at the time of site
improvements. City Hall was built prior to the downtown sidewalk plan
being approved. It has been our recommendation that along with the
site plan approval for the new public safety building, that the current
property owned by the City be upgraded with sidewalk as necessary to
meet the City requirements for sidewalk in the downtown Plymouth area.
o Mr. Moore and I do not believe that there needs to be a change in the
City's policy with regard to sidewalks at this time. We believe that
if the City's trail plan is totally implemented, hopefully 90-95% of
all the areas that would normally have sidewalk will have a public
trail.
o The cost of developing and maintaining a public sidewalk system
throughout the entire City of Plymouth would be cost prohibitive to the
taxpayers.
o We believe there are some isolated cases where additional
trails/sidewalks in addition to those currently shown on the
comprehensive trail plan, may be advantageous for safety or other
reasons. Mr. Moore and I are currently studying this and expect to be
able to define these areas at the April commission meeting.
o It is also necessary for the Public Safety Department to have
additional input on this subject.
No action is necessary by the Commission on this item at your March meeting.
EB/nP
Attachments
Regular Council Meeting
February 4, 1991
Page 48
MOTION was made by uncilmembe Zitur, seconded
by Councilmember Vasi u, to dopt ORDINANCE NO
91-7 RELATING TOPUBLIC E , PERTAINING TO
HANDICAP PARKING, ADDING A SUBSECTION TO THE
PLYMOUTH CITY CODE.
Motion carried on a roll call vote, ve ayes.
Manager Willis stated that PRAC Chairman Preel
has expressed his concern about the lack of
sidewalk along Plymouth Blvd. The Park and
Recreation Advisory Commission passed a motion
recommending that the Council consider the
installation of sidewalk on Plymouth Boulevard
between Highway 55 and County Road 9. Manager
Willis stated that the architects could
incorporate the necessary sidewalks on public
grounds when they are completing the site
planning for the new public safety building.
In response to a question by Mayor Bergman,
Manager Willis stated sidewalk would be proposed
along both sides of Plymouth Blvd. Councilmember
Vasiliou stated that with the opening of CUB
Foods and the further development of downtown
Plymouth, it is the appropriate time to address
sidewalk in this area.
Councilmember Ricker stated that installation of
sidewalk in this area could set a precedent for
similar requests in other areas of the City. He
stated that costs for construction and
maintenance should be considered first. Also,
the Special Assessment Committee should be asked
to address the issue.
Mayor Bergman stated the public safety issue also
should be addressed in terms of priority
locations.
Councilmember Zitur noted that residents at a
recent Town Meeting mentioned that although there
is a trail system in place, many people are
walking and biking on the streets. He suggested-
I -
list.
a_j,ist Dasea on-puniic_s
can then prioritize this
ORDINANCE 91-7
ORDINANCE
AMENDMENT RELATING
TO HANDICAP
PARKING
Item *8-G
Sidewalk along
Plymouth Blvd.
Item 8-H
MEMO
CITY OF PLYMOUTH
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD, PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447
DATE: April 10, 1991
TO: PRAC
FROM: Eric J. Blank, Director of Parks and Recreation
SUBJECT: SIDEWALKS/TRAILS - ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Attached for your information is the sidewalk/trail policy, adopted in 1972,
and a copy of the policy to define an open space classification system,
adopted in 1973. This document explains what a sidewalk is, what a school
walk is and what a trail is.
I have now had additional meetings with the City Manager, Public Works
Director, Fred Moore, and the Chief of Police, Dick Carlquist. On the
attached map we have identified potential areas where we think it may be
advisable to consider the addition of sidewalks -trails to further enhance our
existing comprehensive trail system plan. Each of these areas is a potential
hazardous area, based on police statistics and/or calls and complaints that
have been received by the City. The construction of sidewalks or trails in
some of these areas would be most difficult, if not impossible. Because of
existing landscaping, etc., in these residential areas, it would probably
require 100% concurrence by all the residents living along the street that
would desire having a sidewalk installed at this time. A decision would also
have to be made regarding whether the sidewalk benefits the entire City, or is
it just a local improvement which should be assessed to the abutting
properties. This issue would have to be discussed by the City's special
assessment committee which is made up of two members of the City Council, the
City Manager and the Director of Public Works.
One other issue is the problem of whether or not we should begin placing
trails on two sides of arterial streets, such as County Road 61. As you can
see from the enclosed letters, the interest in the Heritage neighborhood for a
trail on the west side of 61 still runs high. I have received three or four
additional calls on this subject.
In checking with other cities, I've been informed that Eagan does provide
trails on both sides of their arterial streets at City expense.
I have attached a copy of the Maple Grove sidewalk and trail policy. This
policy also indicates that they are putting trails on both sides of their
arterial streets. I hope to get further research on this subject from a
couple of other communities also.
EB/np
SIDEWALK AND TRAIL POLICY
Resolution No. 72-414
October 24, 14172
The Villace Council has deemed it to be advisable to provide a system
of sidewalks and trails throughout the Village to facilitate the mobility of
our population without total reliance on motor vehicles.
Such a sidewalk and trail system may be designed to connect various points
of interest throughout the Village in a coordinated fashion providing for the
separation of aotor and non -motorized vehicles.
In recognition of the foregoing, the following Sidewalk and Trail Policy
is establ-ishad for the Village of Plymouth as a guide to planning and executin
a well -conceived transportation network:
1. Construct as part of the permanent street sidewalks along the "side"
0- major and local thoroughfares and schoolwalks along at least one
side tf designated school walkways when:
a. The establishing of such a sidewalk will not be contrary to
public safety.
b. The cost of establishing such a sidewalk will not be excessively
disproportionate to the need or probable use.
e. Density of population, other available ways, or other factors
indicate the need for such sidewalks or trails.
2. Construct to Village Standards trails as designated on the adopted
Vill.ge Comprehensive Land Use Guide Plan.
3. On streets not designated at a thoroughfare, schoolwalk, or trail,
eonsider.upon request of property owners the construction of side-
walts along residential streets during or after permanent street
construction or when the permanent street grade has been established
by the Village Engineer. The cost shall be paid by or assessed to
the benefited properties with the smallest project to consist of a
si6ei,ralk on one side of a street between two intersecting streets.
4. Require the construction of sidewalks or trails in new developments
when it is determined that such improvements will be required by
pedestrians using, working in, or living in the development. If
the required improvement is necessary for the completion of a portion
of the Land Use Guide Plan or school walk system, then the value of
the improvement shall be credited against the developer's required
park donation.
The above Policy will require that the following items be completed and
maintained before it can be fully implemented: Thoroughfare Guide Plan, Land
Use Guide Plan, School Walk System Policy and Design and Construction Standards
for Sidewalks and Trails.
POLICY TO DEFINE AN OPEN SPACE CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM
Resolution No. 73-87
February 20, 1973
6.
An Open Space Classification System must be established for use by Plymouth
Village commissions, committees, and citizens to facilitate community planning.
The Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission has reviewed and recommended a
proposed listing of terms and definitions for an Open Space System.
The following Open Space System terms and definitions shall be used whenever
practical by the Plymouth Village Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission,
Trail Conmit.tee, Planning Commission, Staff, other groups, and this Council:
1) OPEN SPACE - Consists of that surface area of the Village not covered
by structures. Open space can be public, semi-public, or private.
All of the follc,.ing terms are or will be part of the Open Space
System.
2) SIDEIALKS - Hard -surfaced areas designed for non -motorized circula-
tion. Surface widths will vary depending on the number of different
uses projected with an acceptable minimum width of five feet. Side-
walks generally will be within a street right-of-way.
3) SCHOOLWALKS - Hard -surfaced sidewalks designed for non -motorized
circulation within an attendance area with the school%:,alks being
officially designated by the Plymouth Village Council and the
appropriate school district.
4) TRAILS - Planned walks having a variety of surface materials (froi
none to hard surface) designed for non -motorized circulation. Surface
widths will vary depending on planned use and area. Right-of-way
width for trails will vary as conditions, use, and available land
dictate. Trails will generally be located along or through significant
natural features, i.e. streams, lakes, forests, etc. where feasible.
Trails are intended to link neighborhoods, recreation areas, schools,
and commercial areas to provide an enjoyable, safe, and convenient
alternative to motorized travel.
5) RECREATION! AREAS - Consist of those open space areas dedicated to
leisure pursuits. These pursuits m:y be active or passive. Active
recreation areas consist of golf courses, ballfields, tennis courts,
and similar uses - while passive recreation areas would be nature
preserves, picnic areas, flower gardens, and the like.
6) 14ATER BODIES - Lakes and ponds.
7) WATERCOURSES - Channels for water movement, such as rivers, streams,
and creeks. May flow year -around or intermittently.
2-
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MOUTH.
MAPLE GROVE 3rd draft
SIDEWALK/TRAIL 2/26/90
POLICY
POeY - This policy has been prepared in order to formalize guidelines for the
construction of trails and sidewalks in Maple Grove. The policy comprehends the
development of an integrated system of trails and sidewalks which provide for
the general recreational and transportation needs of pedestrians and non -
motorized vehicles.
7RAI.,,,SYSTEM - Maple Grove's trail system consists of the elements shown in
Figure 1.
Trail System
City County
Park Transportation
MSA Special Use Other
CIP Fund) (Special Assessments)
FIGURE 1
PARK.:TRRI:CS - Park trails are primarily recreation oriented. They accommodate
recreational uses (biking, walking, jogging, etc.) associated with local and
regional park facilities. Park trails are typically located adjacent to wetland
areas or through green space areas dedicated through the platting process. Trail
locations and needs are illustrated by the Comprehensive Park Trail Plan which
is periodically revised to reflect development and development needs. The
schedule for construction of park trails is determined by Park Board policy and
identified in the Capital Improvements Program (CIP). Construction and
maintenance of these trails are funded through the CIP budget, bond referendums,
or the Park Board budget.
TAUSPORTATION TRAILS - Transportation trails are primarily destination oriented.
They accommodate pedestrian and bike traffic to all schools, libraries,
commercial areas, regional park facilities, bus routes and other obvious
destinations. Trail locations and needs are identified in the Capital
Improvements Program which is periodically updated to reflect the Comprehensive
Transportation Plan, development, and locations of public facilities.
Construction of transportation trails is a function of a cost -benefit analysis.
Factors to consider in such a study include demand, accident history and
pedestrian safety, traffic volumes, transportation needs, construction
alternatives, construction costs, and trail system continuity. Trail
construction preferably occurs at the time a street is constructed or
reconstructed.
Trail/sidewalk transportation needs are normally served at three (3) levels:
LOCAL STREETS - (ADT < 1000) are used as links in the system for local
recreational and destination movements.
COLLECTOR STREETS - Low volume collector streets (1000 < ADT < 5,000)
will generally provide for a free-standing sidewalk or trail, within
the street right-of-way, on at least one side of the street except
where transportation needs are satisfied by other elements of the trail
and street system. High volume collector streets (ADT > 5000) will
generally provide for a free-standing sidewalk on one side and a free-
standing trail on the other, within the street right-of-way.
MINOR ARTERIAL STREETS - (10,000 < ADT) will generally have a free-
standing sidewalk on one side and a free-standing trail on the other,,
within the street right-of-way.
Construction of transportation trails are funded through:
MSA - Trails constructed within MSA street right-of-way are funded with
MSA funds.
CIP FUND - Trails that are constructed along other streets, with an
ADT > 1000 or where pedestrian traffic associated with a specific
destination is likely to concentrate, are funded through Capital
Improvement Program funds.
SPECIAL ASSESSMENTS - Other trail requests (petitioned) should be
evaluated on a case-by-case basis. When .the transportation needs go
beyond the levels of service which would normally be provided, the
construction and maintenance costs may be funded through special
assessment on an area -wide basis or.lot basis, as demonstrated by the
petition.
1.
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Regular Council Meeting
March 18, 1991
Page 88 A
MOTION was made by Councilmember Ricker, seconded Plymouth Transit
by Councilmember Vasiliou, to reduce the budget Program Cutbacks
for the Plymouth Transit Program by $16,000, Item 6 -A -1-b
divided equally between marketing and Dial -a -
Ride.
Motion carried on a roll call vote, five=kyes.
Manager Willis presented the recommendation from Trail on Schmidt
the Park and Recreation Advisory Commission to Lake Road
amend the City's Comprehensive Trail Plan by Item 8-A-2
adding a Class I trail along Schmidt Lake Road
between Highway 169 and County Road 101 and
removing the trail along the Soo Line Railroad
except as already constructed.
In response to a question by Councilmember
Helliwell, Manager Willis stated that the
location of the trail will depend on where the
City has easements and the exact wetland
locations. No wetland filling would be done in
order to construct the trail.
Councilmember Helliwell stated concern that if
the trail is on the south side of Schmidt Lake
Road it may necessitate removal of the
landscaping which the Council recently
authorized.
Public Works Director Moore stated that the
boulevard area is wider on the north side of the
roadway and he anticipates the trail will be
constructed on the north side east of I-494.
MOTION was made by Councilmember Vasiliou, RESOLUTION 91-150A
seconded by Mayor Bergman, to adopt RESOLUTION AMENDING TRAIL
NO. 91-150A AMENDING COMPREHENSIVE TRAIL PLAN. PLAN TO ADD TRAIL
ALONG SCHMIDT LAKE
Motion carried on a roll call vote, five ayes. ROAD
Item 8-A-2
L
Manager Willis requested that the,Council Appointments to
determine a process for appointment of Board and Boards and
Commission members. Commissions
Item 8-A-3
Mayor Bergman stated that there is only one
current vacancy on the City's commissions. All
other commissioners have indicated an interest in
reappointment.
MEMO
CITY OF PLYMOUTH
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD, PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447
DATE: March 22, 1991
TO: James G. Willis, City Manager
FROM: Fred G. Moore; Director of Public Works
SUBJECT: PEDESTRIAN CROSSWALK
PLYMOUTH CREEK ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
I have reviewed you March 19, 1991 memo concerning the need for a pedestrian
crosswalk on Vicksburg Lane at 41st Avenue. A crosswalk at this location
would serve the Plymouth Creek Elementary School.
I would recommend that a pedestrian crosswalk be installed on Vicksburg Lane
at the south boundary of the school property or approximately one block south
of 41st Avenue. This is the location where the City's major east/west trail
crosses Vicksburg Lane. The City's trail is constructed from 37th Avenue to
Vicksburg Lane and also westerly of Vicksburg Lane through the school
property.
I am not recommending the 41st Avenue location since it is very close to the
location for the needed pedestrian crosswalk for our trail system. Also, the
school district has not provided a sidewalk system within the school property
or along 41st Avenue to connect to a crosswalk at this location.
Although the City's trail system south of County Road 9 has been constructed,
only portions of the system north of County Road 9 are existing. A major
missing link in the system north of County Road 9 is the extension of the
trail from the south boundary of the Amhurst Development along Turtle Lake to
County Road 9. Since this trail has not been constructed, in order for
pedestrians to walk to the school they would need to walk along Vicksburg
Lane.
To create a safe walking/biking path along Vicksburg Lane, at a minimum, the
gravel shoulders would need to be paved and designated as a
pedestrian/bikeway. Unless this is done, I would not recommend that the
school district change their policy and allow school children who live north
of County Road 9 and who would use Vicksburg Lane as the pedestrian walkway to
the school to walk or ride their bikes to school.
The existing pathway system does exist for the school children living south of
County Road 9 and east of Vicksburg Lane. If the school district changes
their policy and allows children to walk to school from this area, they should
also establish a school crossing patrol program for the marked crosswalk on
the City's east/west pedestrian trail.
Please let me know if you have any additional questions.
FGM:kh
cc: Eric Blank
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THOROUGHFARE GUIDE PLAN
r;) City of Plymouth, Minnesota
FUNCTIONAL CLASSIFICATION
NOTICE TO USERS
Major Collectors
1 • The City Council may authorize
Principal Arterials amendments to this plan[map, A
Minor Collectors
record of amendments Is
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Minor Arterials O Existing Interchanges
Development Department,
Planned Interchanges 2. Refer to Comprehensive Plan
for expiainatlon of thoroughfare
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February 20, 1991
Ellen Monical
4870 Trenton Lane
Plymouth, MN 55442
Dear Ms. Monical:
CITY OF
PLYMOUTR
Mayor Bergman has forwarded your resident feedback form to me for review and
comment. In your note you state that your primary concern deals with
pedestrian and bicycle traffic along Schmidt Lake Road.
Recently the City Council asked the Park and Recreation Advisory Commission
to consider whether or not a trail should be installed along Schmidt Lake
Road. The Commission discussed this subject at their February 14 meeting.
At the conclusion of that public meeting, the Commission voted unanimously to
recommend to the City Council that a Class I trail be placed on either the
north or south side of Schmidt Lake Road as part of the City's comprehensive
trail system plan. This recommendation will be forwarded to the City Council
in the future. If the Council concurs with this recommendation and the
comprehensive plan is amended to include a trail on Schmidt Lake Road, the
issue of timing will still be of importance to everyone.
Limited financing makes it important for the Park Commission and City Council
to annually establish priorities for new trails as part of our capital
improvements program. Any proposed trail along Schmidt Lake Road will have
to be considered along with all the other proposed trail segments throughout
the community.
I would encourage you and your neighbors to continue to communicate by
writing, or other means with both the Park and Recreation Advisory Commission
and the City Council to keep them aware of your interest in this project.
Some of the other subjects addressed in your feedback form have been sent to
Fred Moore, Director of Public Works, for his comments. I'm sure he will be
communicating with you in the near future.
Thank you for taking the time to attend this town meeting. If I may be of
further assistance to you, please feel free to call me at 550-5131.
Sincerely,
f
Eric J. Blank
Parks and Recreation Director
EJB/np
cc: City Manager
Park Commiss QW
Public Works Director
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD, PLYMOUTH. MINNESOTA 55447, TELEPHONE (612) 559-2800
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MARTIN R. ROSENBAUM
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MINNEAPo . MINNE WTA 56402-22D5
TElER E-612-371-3211
FNP. 612-3713207
March 18, 1991
Mr. Eric Blank
City of Plymouth
Park and Recreation Department
3400 Plymouth Boulevard
Plymouth, Minnesota 55447
Dear Eric:
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Thank you for taking the time to talk to me today regarding
new walking trails for my area. My family recently moved to
13115 38th Avenue North in the Heritage area. Before that, we
lived near 40th and Quaker Lane for seven years. We have
children aged 1T, and 2k, and we enjoy using our bike trailer,
especially in French Park. I have not used the bike since we
moved, but I think we will be required to walk the bike and
trailer across Northwest Boulevard at 37th Avenue in order to
gain access to the park. I am concerned that the traffic on
Northwest Boulevard moves very fast, and there is a high curb on
the east side of Northwest Boulevard. If someone is speeding on
Northwest going north, it will be difficult to get the bike and
trailer across the road and over the curb in time to avoid a car.
I have two suggestions to make French Park more accessible
to Heritage residents. First, I understand the City is
considering a trail on the west side of Northwest Boulevard. I
think this is the ideal solution, as residents from all parts of
the Heritage area could take the trail north to the Rockford Road
intersection and cross to the trail leading to the park.
Residents could also use this trail to reach the new Target
Greatland store --otherwise, it will be inaccessible from our area
except by car. I strongly recommend putting in such a trail.
Second, an interim solution might be to lower the eastern curb on
Northwest across from 37th and other Heritage streets (and
possibly put up Caution signs or crosswalks) to make it easier to
get a bike or bike trailer across Northwest.
LINDQUIST & VENNUM
Mr. Eric Blank
March 18, 1991
Page 2
Thank you very much for your consideration. If you have any
questions, please call me at my office number given above, or
call me at home at 559-2038.
Very truly yours,
A -X
Martin R. Rosenbaum
Mr. Yanak Shagalov
April 9, 1991
Page Two
Item No. 3 is being referred to Eric Blank, Director of the Park and
Recreation Department. I am recommending that he review this with the Park
and Recreation Advisory Council to determine if the requested trail along the
south side of the frontage road should be included in the City's Master Trail
Plan. Please refer any future requests on this item to Mr. Blank.
If you have any questions, or would like to be involved in the development of
the 1991 Reconstruction Plans for your area, please contact me at 550-5071.
Sincerely,
Daniel L. Faulkner, P.E.
City Engineer
DLF/do
cc: Fred G. Moore, Director of Public Works
Dan Campbell, Senior Engineering Aid
Eric Blank, Director of Park and Recreation
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MEMO
CITY OF PLYMOUTH
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD, PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447
DATE: March 15, 1991
TO: PRAC
FROM: Eric J. Blank, Director of Parks and Recreation
SUBJECT: PARK PROPOSAL - 10TH AVENUE & SOUTH SHORE DRIVE
The original park plan completed in 1982 contemplated a small neighborhood
park located south of Medicine Lake and north of Highway 55. See the attached
master plan map for location. To date, we have taken no action on attempting
to secure any property in this area for a park.
Recently, Sgt. Larry Rogers of the police department has brought to my
attention a number of social situations taking place in this area which have
become a problem for the police department. Sgt. Rogers queried of me the
possibility of whether the City park department could do anything to provide
alternative activities and other programs that might help with this particular
situation. Once I started investigating the situation, I discovered that the
City had recently purchased three acres of property at the corner of 10th
Avenue and South Shore Drive due to the construction of 10th Avenue.
The citizens of Willow Wood Housing Complex have submitted a petition through
Sgt. Rogers requesting that the City consider establishing a park in their
area. Sgt. Rogers, in a memo dated March 8, further explains the
circumstances of the problems and concerns the police department have been
facing in this geographic area.
It is my belief that we have a golden opportunity at this time, at a
relatively minimal investment, to attempt to provide a park and other
activities that would be tremendously appreciated and needed in one of our low
income areas. I have asked Sgt. Rogers to come to your March 21 meeting to
discuss this situation further with you. I have discussed this situation with
City Manager Willis, and he also has expressed a positive interest in pursuing
this project.
I have included with this memo a copy of the petition and graphics which show
the land the City has purchased in green and the Willow Wood Complex in blue.
I suggest that if you have the opportunity, drive over and take a look at this
neighborhood prior to the meeting on the 21st.
Also of interest, the City has recently approved 168 townhouse units (plan
attached) on the property immediately east of the proposed park site along
10th Avenue. With this relatively high density proposed in this area, we
could see an influx of a large number of children moving to this area in the
near future.
EB/np
attachments
MEMO
CITY OF PLYMOUTH
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD, PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447
DATE: March 8, 1991
TO: Eric Blank, Director of Park & Recreation
FROM: Sgt. Lawrence Rogers, Public Safety Department
SUBJECT: WILLOW WOOD PARK PROPOSAL
As part of the police department's continued approach to community policing,
an activity study was recently completed for Willow Wood Apartments, 10850
Southshore Drive. The purpose of the study was twofold: (1. To determine to
what extent the number of occurrences impacted on youngsters), (2. To
determine what environmental changes that could be brought about by the City
of Plymouth to improve the safety and quality of living among the children at
the Willow Wood complex).
Willow Wood is a 100 percent low income, Section 8 housing complex. There are
48 adults and 114 children living in 40 housing units, comprising a 4.05
percent residential density per unit. In 1990, the police department received
136 calls for service at Willow Wood. Seventeen youths were identified as
suspects or defendants on 42 occasions concerning crimes and status offenses.
These same youths ranged in age from 7 to 16 years. The median age was 12.5,
and 11.5 was the mean offender age. Youthful offenders were referred to
juvenile court as defendants, or were suspects in the following incidents: 1
burglary, 7 domestics, 11 runaways, 7 suspicions, 6 vandalisms, 2 disturbing,
3 alcohol violations, 4 assaults, and 1 miscellaneous incident.
Twenty-two youths were reported as victims in 34 incidents in 1990. These
included: 1 attempted suicide, 5 health and welfare checks, 10 suspicion
calls, 4 domestic incidents, 1 medical, 1 neglect report, and 14 assault
complaints. The median age of the young victims was 10.6, and 11.5 was the
mean victim age. The overall range in victim ages was from 5 to 17 years.
Assault victims comprised the largest number of complaints, and 13 to 16 year
olds were the most frequent victims of these incidents.
Willow Wood has not been without its share of adult problems. Adults were
identified as suspects/defendants in 33 incidents within the complex. These
are: 9 assaults, 4 health and welfare/neglect complaints, 3 domestics, 3
disturbance calls, 2 DWI's, 2 nuisance complaints, 2 miscellaneous calls, 2
animal complaints, 1 vandalism, 1 warrant, 1 liquor violation, 1 insurance
violation, and 1 dumping incident.
Also in 1990, adults were identified as victims/complainants in the followingsituations: 12 assaults, 13 domestics, 11 runaway complaints, 7 disturbances,
2
4 miscellaneous complaints, 4 medicals, 4 vandalism calls, 3 nuisances, 4
health & welfare/neglect complaints, 2 burglaries, 2 animal complaints, 1
theft, and 2 fire complaints.
These figures clearly demonstrate the degree of conflict that exists at Willow
Wood. Compounding this, the children are isolated from safe places where they
can play; being compelled to huddle in crowded parking lots, hang out at the
car wash, meander through businesses, and dash between speeding cars along
Highway 55 to reach LaCompte Green.
Admittedly, the actions of city government can have little effective impact on
the nature of improving the internal social and economic conditions of these
families. Nevertheless, we can provide a safe, positive environment that
provides children a place where they can be children, away from the dangers of
the streets and existing conflicts.
Management and parents at Willow Wood are asking the Park Department and City
Administration to evaluate the possibilities of constructing a small 3 1/2
acre park on city owned land, located near the intersection of 10th Avenue and
Southshore Drive. Marlys Zins, a resident of Willow Wood, has submitted a
petition of 110 names in support of the construction of a park in their
neighborhood. There are an additional 7 children who could use the park that
reside at the Sun Valley Mobile Homes and the Southshore Apartments.
Finally, Mr. Lindblom has informed me that there may be a modest source of
funds available through the local chapter of the Knights of Columbus, to aid
in the construction of the park. Also, several residents of Willow Wood, as
well as the management company for that complex would be able to assist in
designing and building the park for the neighborhood children. These are
additional resource opportunities that may be pursued as further discussion
continues concerning this project. The project itself possesses enormous
potential, not only to improve the quality of the children's environment in
this area, but it can also serve to build a constructive bridge between the
city and those at Willow Wood who may feel themselves disenfranchised from the
more affluent majority in this community.
LER:kb
cc: Chief Richard J. Carlquist
Lt. Dennis Paulson
Sgt. Ron Foreman
Mr. Ron Lindholm
City of Plymouth
Parks and Recreation
3400 Plymouth Blvd.
Plymouth, Mn. 55447
TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN
I am a resident of Willow Wood Estates, 10850 South Shore Drive and I am
writing this letter in hopes that you may be able to help our situation.
There are 118 kids living at Willow Wood with the average age being 9.7 years.
This is the highest concentration of kids in the city of Plymouth.
The problem we are having is no place for the kids to play. There is no park in this
area other than the one on the south side of 55. That park is too far and too
dangerous for the kids from Willow Wood to go to.. The times we have tried to use
the park for ice skating we were told we couldn't because of hockey practice. We
asked the coach where they were from and he tol us, St Louis Park. So much for
neighborhood parks.
There is slot of un -used land in this area that could be used for a park and we
feel that the time has come that Plymouth put parks where they are needed and
not where the half million dollar homes are.
We the undersigned want a park for the neighborhood !
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CITY OF PLYMOUTH
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD, PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447
DATE: April 9, 1991
TO: PRAC
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FROM: Eric J. Blank, Director of Parks and Recreation
SUBJECT: POLICY ON CITY FUNDING OF EURASIAN WATER MILFOIL ERADICATION
The City Council has asked that we prepare some type of policy dealing with
how the City will address the issue of Eurasian water milfoil on area lakes.
For the purposes of this policy, I have broken our lakes down into three
categories: one - full public access lakes, two - lakes that have public park
land along the shoreline, and three - private lakes.
On full public access lakes, which are Medicine and Parkers, I believe that
the City should be involved in direct cost sharing with the DNR and homeowner
associations for the spraying of Eurasian water milfoil. On Medicine Lake,
cost participation should also come from the City of Medicine Lake and
Hennepin Parks.
On lakes that have public park land but no access, which are Bass Lake,
Schmidt Lake, Mooney Lake and Mud Lake, I recommend the City cost share with
the homeowners on the lake on a front foot basis the cost of spraying the
lake. Thus, if the City owned 10% front footage on any of these lakes, we
would pay 10% of the cost to spray for milfoil on these lakes.
On private lakes within the City, which are Lost Lake, Pomerleau, Gleason,
Cavanaugh, Hadley, Pike, Curtis, Kreatz and Snyder (lakes with no public park
land or public access to the water), I believe it is up to the homeowners
association to bear the cost of milfoil eradication, if they so choose. I
don't believe it is good policy for the public, as a whole, to pay the cost
for lakes which they cannot enjoy.
I believe the following steps should be followed in implementing this policy;
1. Each homeowners association, and any governmental body that
has interest in any of our lakes, should be notified of the
City's written policy on Eurasian water milfoil.
2. Every lake should be encouraged to have a milfoil watch
program organized by the local residents living near the
lake.
3. All interested parties that will be cost sharing with the
City should agree in writing to the conditions as set forth
in the City policy.
4. Whenever milfoil has been spotted, the City should be given
notice prior to the spraying taking place, so that we can
monitor the cost of the spraying prior to a bill being
incurred, for which the City will be partially liable.
RV e ?..
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PCITYICO
April 9, 1991
PLVMOUTR
Mr. Yanak Shagalov
205 Quaker Lane
Plymouth, MN 55441
SUBJECT: REQUEST FOR THREE WAY STOP SIGN
AT QUAKER LAND AND FRONTAGE ROAD
Dear Mr. Shagalov:
I am responding to your March 27, 1991 letter to myself and Mr. Dan Campbell
of the Engineering staff. Your letter included a petition signed by 16 of the
homeowners on Quaker Lane requesting the following:
1. A three way stop sign at the intersection of Quaker Lane and
the frontage road.
2. Move the dead-end sign on Quaker Lane closer to the frontage
road and install an additional sign on the east side so they
can be more easily seen from the frontage road.
3. Provide sidewalk on the south side of the frontage road in
an east/west direction.
In response to Item No. 1, the City has directed its consulting engineer, as
part of the 1991 Reconstruction Program, to prepare a grading plan for the lot
at the southwest quadrant of the Quaker Lane intersection. The grading plan
would indicate the amount of grading required to provide adequate sight
distance for northbound vehicles on Quaker Lane stopped at the frontage road.
A three way stop condition at Quaker Lane is not recommended due to the
proximity to the Revere Lane intersection with the frontage road as well as
the much greater volume of traffic on the frontage road in comparison to
Quaker Lane. It is anticipated that the sight distance problem can be
resolved with grading the lot at the southwest corner and this could be
accomplished as part of the 1991 Reconstruction Program. For your
information, I am enclosing a copy of the City's policy concerning requests
for stop sign installation and a map of your area showing the required 500
foot radius as alluded to in the policy.
Item No. 2 of the petition will be addressed in the following manner. The
existing dead-end sign on the west side of Quaker Lane will be moved northerly
to the approximate northeast corner of the lot on the west side of Quaker Lane
at the intersection with the frontage road. An additional dead -sign will not
be installed on the east side of Quaker Lane as this would be an improper
location for traffic considering a southbound movement.
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD. PLYMOUTH. MINNESOTA 55447. TELEPHONE (612) 550-5000
Mr. Yanak Shagalov
April 9, 1991
Page Two
Item No. 3 is being referred to Eric Blank, Director of the Park and
Recreation Department. I am recommending that he review this with the Park
and Recreation Advisory Council to determine if the requested trail along the
south side of the frontage road should be included in the City's Master Trail
Plan. Please refer any future requests on this item to Mr. Blank.
If you have any questions, or would like to be involved in the development of
the 1991 Reconstruction Plans for your area, please contact me at 550-5071.
Sincerely,
Daniel L. Faulkner, P.E.
City Engineer
DLF/do
cc: Fred G. Moore, Director of Public Works
Dan Campbell, Senior Engineering Aid
Eric Blank, Director of Park and Recreation
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