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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 $14/ft. 8,400 Co. Rd. 6 west of 101 to Imperial Hills entrance 3.000 297,200 ro Fe?F S?3i4E!(iq /° gq$t'rBsEF a e:e3:t.`EieFEFE!€ztFEe'lsaEai;.Fe>::six's3.e4.:;s:a:E6i: '. ii9i igii Et iiiieiBiiiifiiii:ili.i.lai i,i,s,i,"iiici leE.iii.ii.iiai.../:$..=i€ivi3iiisiii€ii 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- i a. 1 ICepoScD WA KwAK S. 001- •• n I 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. 1,2g) ITY OF w E SCALE OF MILES PLYMOUTR S ° 6 _-- °. S s as F Ei [.! !i$i .9 !'!Da 5 6ZPY %`"• E'' QQ i-e.E: ieiiS?:$iei5ilfi E•`aai53!'i$i faf e:i"Ev.3i!3i!cnrssfe STREET MAP -tea l@] i. vo t- a i i PoK''i .°I u.e P_- r m...i m M.. a t a.. ¢'' .i ,• v I o i I i I il7 I F tIL k. n<. 1- I I ar• 07 a, e,s.'...•i.i ice 1 STREET MAP -tea l@] 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 1. vs t IW, , y, , ' , <. ,•I A F-- - 1 ,,1 F' t -.', :Jt OrQoan `. '. 1e- -. s: ` m / - ` , I IIf4ANI os a r y Jl 1,.tvII4 y1 O CO. P, L ilk O - 'a.a ' i t. LPN! lit NZ N y m OCITU``` J /, M e' t .... qQ``/I .. -. m. r. . SJ IMIT , TY il. 0 CITY OF ST LOUIS r, j( ICITY1 II R I -. . WAV2ATA tr- n Sugar-Roscoe-Fausch, PROPOSED j Consulting Engineers December 13, 1989 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 r Intermediate Arterials " maintained by the Community Minor Arterials O Existing Interchanges Development Department, Planned Interchanges 2. Refer to Comprehensive Plan for expiainatlon of thoroughfare guide plan, r ( w OF - J—....L,.--•--. ._MAPLE GROVE CITY t ya! LAK t r IIyyf' njCO. RD. 47 p 1 LU 1 ' d'. I' _.j I Y t , - nth y. ol y SCNNIOT .- v Y p , ROCK FORD ,9 '.'' OLD q Oq4 U east pS;C,t \ . Lg".. # O • .n t '41 LAVE Av^ i ( a a• Tom J F 1 fjaS . ./ t" A..i: u: Y mt 1. jjSl .. _ , • / t } Yy [ M1 i / I T Y<' ' v F b r { .11. J • 4 .7 -T Prt 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 u. ,n I Cil' PAi4„ER Ctif CGI Z!, V FuS ir r c DIfl TuR eia.Epc nAa, 3L z 1c-iCL IMP%vlW DIREy. ry wy msw I C 1 Qli MUT Ci'.R1i0T:EY CL 3q7 c q 17 o U - t . - Lc Ck 3`10 L{ LINDQUIST & VENNUM ATTORNEYS AT LAW MARTIN R. ROSENBAUM 6123713278 4200 IDS CENre 60 $WIN EIG STREET 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: IN DENVER IIND'J nu.VENNNM $ QIRI NwN 60D 17TN STREET. SURE 2125 DENVER, CWauoO 80202-5401 TEERNWE303573.5900 NVML Ta On hKNAGER Y OLSIIlC(l FEM G1ORK DIRECTOR F2L4= DIRECTOR FLiTi64 DIRECTOR FBL f SAFL Y D!,RECTOR A2"'LrilSk.1 i! ASSISTANT Falx C;;.0 S;iON 4ITY ATTPI. 10 ma lowr. D - RI 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 Za' (vakxp laws / C JncrX le 1 S'3i/'1/ 7 IM4rch I'M r 40,.4e 6e MA/ j -v/,/ 7 isms c , .exf- I"w ez4A-w Ag -ft`. % e- Ariww , // 17 714C W4 -e -a s 44- rxNdeW73 c C amo ks r Elms, a k/CJ,i, sem Axed ,y`c wf// lO'- Q&04C lat4L r d -WC e l , Per17-140 AMAI QvoA,*P- Lave Tv INS 7A// 3- weL y 372 0 SAGAS Oh /p ferX%*e sON WITH FrO `4ye rood ViOVI Lll4f/ {nd" S19hS CloSEr llD Frvr fid # /os1/ aaG of, 4AL Z04f--s;4e, SO tan Ar .Lein L' prowde sidt"4011 . 00 5 -Par i $Mc f OW FI•an4t i' lts f est di cl , k,, 130 e L, r Layw-- 1e,-- Lsu.e- ZII) a C t / ,L"c Qai9klole 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 ! a e-a /P i ORSA1uv _ a .. 3 r S 000 j q,r). Ati i j ALti EIT (SOCK ATT(RaK f?T ll1tC iETT (lSGK O tiL61 OO hDL O e TV•4 O l -•4 4e R. Lla) 4p R. e.wti) -TCD 4oR mti S,'KO 'OR T SL U•rt1 u-0VN TS SJaK6 1PH,. 0 1+ sNK xoZ 11 I I'D 4:. II GAYLOR f- N112 6C. 56 Fe fI qac c5 Y z 1 2 2 tan rts ;. 4. p 1'l a v 16•,... l.H , , ;.H 1.x1 Ilp Lal Lel,.. tial 01 R 9 lel - Ln ul s 191 nwl ssN:+ ocn'w I - nn Z i r RRTRAT nal ir*IF'IRST a I il }I DEDICI: Im lel d Y y L MD DM iIIIWTN \\ i IN Wi(Wi1YE Lxl _ s,r a. \F heal `e}. _ tl tbt • le)Ie Y c TENTER 3 oil Art. NCSAX 'v;ti P } •''4 s ic•'aM NOi l• •..'. ,*' 11(I 'il']il]Yi f IT) 5 5 • BU.y k IsiJ 'I s V s,.,f •.r I :s. 4 ' n^ \\ lHl . c nv " - , ! .. wk' • — — -' /T/S/9dSS I[,TR . .+ 4W W } ltl 1']I In cccc te.x-nes c1 A LEGALLY RECCNOED YAP, IT •v[•s[ A CuWIL !LGN OF INFCPVATICN '• ` GN CITY, COUNTY, AND STATE MCS AND OTFEP. SOiNCES. n mak. ]}. P P P i ,.I •. L UMGU ULAXING SYSTtM F,us I ITH 425.21' I 1 I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I i I I I I I II II III I t I I EXCEPTION I i SRFn STRGAR-ROSCOE-FAUSCH, INC l CONSULTING ENGINEERS iuxvcsnnw a]¢ naavuc nuvxc uim ainnu Suitt I50, (MetirbM Puk+ry NoM S.SN] AVE. NORTH I I I OTH AVE. j S8 575 I 545.89 I w FENCE N 50 0 Scale 115.01' t N 89057'52" E w t o' to ocn I I iG I Q I S89°57 5W ns.01 NORTH oLIN a o 001 BOUNDARY SURVEY FOR THE CITY OF PLYMOUTH BOOK 3 COMM. i o I ITH 425.21' I 1 I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I i I I I I I II II III I t I I EXCEPTION I i SRFn STRGAR-ROSCOE-FAUSCH, INC l CONSULTING ENGINEERS iuxvcsnnw a]¢ naavuc nuvxc uim ainnu Suitt I50, (MetirbM Puk+ry NoM S.SN] AVE. NORTH I I I OTH AVE. j S8 575 I 545.89 I w FENCE N 50 0 Scale 115.01' t N 89057'52" E w t o' to ocn I I iG I Q I S89°57 5W ns.01 NORTH oLIN a o 001 BOUNDARY SURVEY FOR THE CITY OF PLYMOUTH BOOK 3 COMM. MEMO CITY OF PLYMOUTH 3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD, PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447 DATE: April 9, 1991 TO: PRAC 0 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 ?.. F` 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. 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