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HomeMy WebLinkAboutPark and Recreation Advisory Commission Packet 12-09-1999WE WILL MEET AT THE PLYMOUTH ICE CENTER Regular Meeting of the Park and Recreation Advisory Commission December 9, 1999, 7 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. Approved contract with Suzanne's Catering b. S. Unfinished Business a. Review 1999 year at the Ice Center - Bill Abel, Ice Center Manager b. Review Chapter 8 of the Comprehensive Plan - Parks c. 2000-2004 CIP d. Plymouth Creek Center update 6. New Business a. b. C. 7. Commission Presentation 8. Staff Communication 9. Adjourn Next regular meeting - January 6, 2000 n\parks\staff\eric\prac\agendas\dec.doc MINUTES OF THE PARK AND RECREATION ADVISORY COMMISSION MEETING November 10, 1999 Page 52 Present: Chair Anderson, Commissioners Musliner, Priebe, Willegalle, Thompson; staff Bisek, Blank and Pederson; Councilmember Black Absent: Commissioners Wahl and Fiemann 1. CALL TO ORDER Chair Anderson called the meeting to order at 7:05 p.m. 2. APPROVAL OF MINUTES A motion was made by Commissioner Priebe and seconded by Commissioner Musliner to approve the minutes of the October meeting as presented. Motion carried with all ayes. 3. VISITOR PRESENTATIONS a. Athletic Associations. None were present. b. Staff. Mary distributed flyers advertising Old Fashioned Christmas on December 5. She said we have a new storyteller this year named Charlie Maguire. He's known as the singing park ranger. Mary stated that the dome opened on November 5, and all reports so far are very positive. We are talking rentals for the activity center beginning June 1. The City is in the process of negotiating a contract with Suzanne's Cuisine as the caterer. Cornmissioner Musliner asked if the caterer can charge whatever they want. Mary said they will have a wide variety of price ranges and menu choices that hopefully will meet everyone's needs. The contract is not a specified length of time, but the City can cancel with 60 days notice and Suzanne's can cancel with a 90 day notice. Mary said we're thinking about having a grand opening in June. She asked for suggestions for programming in the activity center and dome. Councilmember Black asked Mary to e- mail the Council with this information. Mary announced that Sara Mittelstaedt, our Senior Coordinator, has been working 20 hours a week for the City, but beginning in December, she will be full-time. Her office will be in the new activity center, once it opens. Councilmember Black asked about congregate dining. Director Blank said we're not sure if we will offer congregate dining. Apparently it's not a popular concept with our seniors. Mary said that 175 people attended the Volunteer Recognition event at the Carlson Towers, which was held Tuesday evening. c. Others. None. 4. REPORT ON PAST COUNCIL ACTION Director Blank announced that the City Council approved the name Shenandoah Park. Landscaping is done there and the trails are in. The playground goes in next year. PRAC Minutes/November 1999 Page 53 5. UNFINISHED BUSINESS a. Comprehensive Plan discussion - open space and golf courses Director Blank displayed a new open space map, showing nine sites. He pointed out these nine sites and explained a little about each one. The sites that were removed from this map will be shown on the park map and the trail map. A second open space map will include potential acquisitions. Director Blank stated that the recent city survey revealed that 52 percent of Plymouth residents play golf on a somewhat regular basis. This is second only to walking as a recreational activity. The resident survey also shows strong interest in preserving at least one golf course if it becomes apparent that the land may be sold to a developer. Director Blank explained the City's policies with respect to golf courses. First, the City will avoid any action (such as assessments for public improvements) that would encourage redevelopment of the courses for other uses; second, it's in the city's best interest to keep at least one 18 -hole course in Plymouth; and third, if we must preserve one of the golf courses, it should be Hollydale, because of its location, the quality of the course, and the nearby wetlands. Commissioner Thompson asked what the process is if Hollydale decided to sell. Director Blank said there isn't much of a process. Hollydale could simply decide to sell to a developer, and the City would not deny a change to the land use guide plan. If they were fast tracking, they may be able to sell it within 120 days. Councilmember Black was interested in percentage of golfers to total population in Minnesota. Upper midwest has the highest percentage of golfers, according to the SRF consultant. We have a large number of publicly accessible golf courses in Minnesota. Councilmember Black thinks golf courses aren't really open space. Commissioner Priebe agrees with Councilmember Black and feels they are a recreational area. Commissioner Priebe would prefer that golf courses be called park land, rather than open space. Councilmember Black feels that golf courses don't meet the criteria for open space. She does not agree that they preserve native habitats, as mentioned on page one of the golf document. There was discussion then on rephrasing the paragraph on open space preservation as it relates to golf courses, and it was agreed that this should be worded differently. Director Blank says there are two ways for the City to acquire a golf course - have a vote by the people to purchase one, or go to the Council and ask to do a revenue bond. The golf course in Richfield generates $150,000 in revenue a year said Director Blank. Councilmember Black explained that she does not support public agencies operating golf courses, because she feels a public entity should not be operating something for profit. She went on to say that golf courses are available to a much smaller segment of the population than other public park programs. She said she received many phone calls from her constituents saying they did not support the Eagle Lake golf course, which is being proposed by Hennepin Parks, and no calls favoring it. Commissioner Priebe stated that for the benefit of its residents, the City should step in and take over the operation of a private golf course, if it wasn't economically feasible for a private owner to continue. Other commissioners agreed. Director Blank asked about the statements on the back page of the golf handout. Commissioner Thompson suggested rewording it to say the following policies, in priority order, will guide future actions with respect to golf courses." Commissioner Musliner asked if Hollydale were to sell, what happens with Hampton Hills and Elm Creek? Would the City try to preserve one of them? PRAC Minutes/November 1999 Page 54 Commissioner Willegalle said the City would have to do a feasibility study to see if it would be worthwhile to purchase one of them. Councilmember Black said she was talking to Planning Director Hurlburt and the way that the sewer and water is being developed, it will be very expensive for Hampton Hills to get sewer service, which could lead to Hampton Hills being very undesirable for any type of future development. Director Blank then asked the commissioners if they were comfortable with the golf chapter of the comprehensive plan as it was presented, with the few changes that had been discussed. Commissioners said they were okay with it. b. Plymouth Creek Center update. The dome opened and is being used seven days a week. The main building should be done in March, according to the contractor. Parking lots are all paved and lighted. Some of the landscaping is underway. The ornamental lighting will be installed soon. Windows are being installed on the upper level. Construction is on track. c. 2000-04 CIP. Director Blank said the list that was created last month was reorganized by year. He said we have a 50 year plan for everything we own, and everything has a life expectancy. Director Blank then explained the park improvements proposed for each year and how each item will be funded. Bleachers must be totally enclosed now, due to legislation passed after a child suffered a fatal fall last winter at an indoor hockey arena. This means that all of our bleachers will need to be replaced, but the cost will be spread out over the next couple of years. West Medicine Park vault toilets are going to be installed because portable satellites cannot keep up with the demand. The long term plan is for a permanent building there someday. Commissioner Thompson asked how we decide which buildings with bathrooms are kept open? Director Blank said only if something is going on at the park are the bathrooms available. Parkers Lake is open when the beach is open. We must have staff available for security reasons. Director Blank explained the plan to put in a playground on the ESS property (environmental park), west of I-494. He stated that the Mud Lake Park development is proposed for 2002. This property could be as nice as Three Ponds Park. It has very beautiful views. Armstrong Youth Baseball wants a new building at Zachary, but they've been told it's not high priority. If they can fund it with a half match, we will try to find funds for the other half. In the 2003 plan, we start funding the acquisition of the 10th playfield. Commissioner Priebe asked about the trail across 494 at County Road 9. Director Blank said we put money in the 1999 CIP for that, but it won't be constructed until 2000. The City of New Hope wants to build a pedestrian bridge over Highway 169 at 36th Avenue connecting New Hope and Plymouth. MNDot agreed this was a good idea but they want both cities to help fund it. Director Blank wrote and told them we'd contribute $15,000 in 2003, but they want $58,000. Mary mentioned her concern that electronic signs to advertise events wasn't included in the CIP. Director Blank said there could be one at the Ice Center, but current city ordinance doesn't allow for them at other locations. Commissioner Thompson thinks more things need to be done to advertise what the City is doing. Director Blank then discussed things on the list that are desired but not funded. Everyone wanted to know what a spray playground is. Director Blank said this replaces old wading pools and is a new concept. It's like playing under a sprinkler, but you PRAC Minutes/November 1999 Page 55 capture the water so it can be reused. Director Blank said the main concern is how much revenue we're going to get to help kind these things. He is confident that the figures he assigned to each project are 90% accurate. Based on trends he has seen in terms of housing starts, he believes we can afford everything in the proposed CIP. Director Blank displayed plans for the athletic fields at Greenwood. There are two different design plans. Director Blank also displayed a couple of ideas for the millennium garden. As plans progress, a professional team will be hired to design the garden. 6. NEW BUSINESS a. There was no new business. 7. COMMISSION PRESENTATION None. 8. STAFF COMMUNICATION Director Blank said the December meeting might be at the Ice Center for a presentation by Manager Bill Abel. 9. ADJOURN The meeting adjourned at 9:20 p.m. PLYMOUTH ICE CENTER FACTS Our Zamboni's drive approximately 2 hours every day resurfacing the ice. That totals about 40,000 miles a year; but remember, they never drive further than 200' from home. And other than an occasional scrape against the dasher boards, they have never been in an accident. Of course, with only 2 Zamboni's the traffic is not too congested. In 1999, 3,366 hours were used on our Olympic ice sheet. This totals 9 hours per day average. Also, 2,889 hours were used on our Professional ice sheet. This totals 7-3/4 hours per day average. Totally, our ice was used for 6,255 hours this year. Considering there is only 8,760 total hours available in any given year, this makes the Plymouth Ice Center a very busy facility. Up to November 30 of this year, we have had almost 9,000 people attend our open skating sessions. About 4,500 were paid admissions and about 4,500 were non -paid Lifetime members, just about 50%. We have also rented out about 3,900 pair of ice skates and sharpened over 1,000 pairs of skates as well. The two meeting rooms were used for 2,500 hours. The concession stand has generated about $50,000 revenue up to the end of November. Total vending has generated about $24,000 Our Figure Skating program has approximately 680 children skating and receives revenue of $119,000. Our electricity and gas usage averages out to $500 per day. In all, the Plymouth Ice Center offers 83,000 square feet of ice, meeting rooms, and various support facilities, which all create a, very busy environment that is great for the local residents of Plymouth. A Beautiful Place to Skate 3650 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD • PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55446-3201 612) 509-5250 FAX (612) 509-5060 I CHRISTMAS HOLIDAY PUBLIC EVENTS 11 High School Games Sat., Dec. 18 Wayzata Girls High School Hockey vs. Edina Sat., Dec. 18 Wayzata Boys High School Hockey vs. St. Louis Park Tue_, Dec. 21 Wayzata Boys High School Hockey vs. Eden Prairie Thur., Dec. 23 Wayzata Alumni Game Thur., Dec. 23 Armstrong Alumni Game Mon., Dec. 27 Armstrong High School Girls Tournament Tue., Dec. 28 Armstrong High School Girls Tournament Wed., Dec. 29 Armstrong High School Girls Tournament Figure Skating Exhibition Sun., Dec. 19 Open Skating Sun., Dec. 19 Wed., Dec. 22 Thur_, Dec. 23 Sun, Dec. 26 Thur., Dec. 30 Sat., Jan. 1 Sun., Jan. 2 Parents & Tots Thur., Dec. 23 Thur., Dec. 30 Christmas Show 3:00 P.M. 5:30/7:30 P -M. 5:30/7:30 P.M. 3:30 P.M. 7:00 P.M. 4:45-9:45 P.M. 4:45-9:45 P.M. 4:45-9:45 P.M. 2:00 P.M. 2:30-4:00 P.M. 11:30-1:30 P.M. 11:30-1:30 P.M. 2:304:00 P.M. 11:30-1:30 P.M. 6:30-8:30 P.M. 2:30-4:00 P.M. 9:15-11:15 A.M. 9:15-11:15 A.M_ DATE: December 7, 1999 TO: PRAC FROM: Eric J. Blank, Director, Parks and Recreation SUBJECT: Joint City Council/Planning Commission Meeting for Comprehensive Plan Update I want to give you a heads up that on Tuesday, December 14, at 7 p.m., there will be a special meeting of the City Council and the Planning Commission to review the comprehensive plan update. The Council and Planning Commission have held a number of these meetings previously. This one is scheduled to review the Parks, Open Space and Trails element of the plan. You will be reviewing this chapter in detail at your Thursday night meeting. I would like to encourage as many of you as possible to sit in with the City Council and Planning Commission to review this chapter on Tuesday, the 14th. I have attached a copy of the agenda for that meeting for your information. EB/np Agenda Joint City Council/ Planning Commission Meeting Plymouth Comprehensive Plan Update Tuesday, December 14,1999 7:00 p.m. Public Safety Training Room A. Call to Order B. Briefing on Land Use Plan Issues C. Receive and Discuss Chapter 8 of Draft Comprehensive Plan: Parks, Open Space and Trails Element D. Schedule Future Meetings to Complete Comprehensive Plan Update E. Adjourn Cd\p Ian\agendas\pc\pcother\121499j oint. doc Agenda Number C CITY OF PLYMOUTH COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT CITY COUNCIL/ PLANNING COMMISSION STAFF REPORT DATE: December 9, 1999 for the Joint Meeting of December 14, 1999 SUBJECT: Transmittal of Parks, Open Space and Trails Plan Chapter Chapter 8, Plymouth Comprehensive Plan Update PREPARED BY: Anne W. Hurlburt, Community Development Director (509-5401) Eric Blank, Parks and Recreation Director (509-5201) FILE NO.: 98025 1. RECOMMENDED ACTION None required. Consultants and staff will answer any questions and receive your comments at the December 14 meeting. 2. BACKGROUND The draft Parks, Open Space and Trials Plan chapter of the Comprehensive Plan is now ready for review. The Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee (PRAC) will review the plan at its December 9 meeting, and will join the City Council and Planning Commission for their discussion at the December 14 meeting. The chapter is organized into the following major sections: parks, open space, the Northwest Greenway, trails and sidewalks, and recreation activities. The purpose of the plan is to identify the recreation and open space needs in the City through the year 2020 and for ultimate development should that occur in the future. Parks, open space and trails policies have been previously reviewed as part of Chapter 3 of the Plan (Policy Plan.) hnplementation recommendations will be discussed at a future, as part of Chapter 12 (Implementation.) There will also be several appendices that will be included in the fmal version of the plan not included in this draft. Appendices will include a complete inventory of park facilities, background information on sports participation and natural resources/ open space, and detailed trail design standards. Please contact us if there are any questions about this material. City & Community Parks Neighborhood Parks 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 Beginning Balance 257,215 390,579 117,579 254,579 463,579 323,579 Projected Revenues 637 86 300,000 400,000 400,000 400,000 400,000 Projected Expenditures 503,72 573,000 253,000 191,000 540,000 378,000 Ending Balance 390,579 117,579 254,579 463,579 323,579 345,579 Neighborhood Parks Park CIP Projections.xls 12/3/99 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 Beginning Balance 124,815 181,242 41,242 50,242 70,758) 57,242 Projected Revenues 270,849 100,000 150,000 150,000 150,000 150,000 Projected Expenditures 214,422 240,000 141,000 271,000 22,000 22,000 Ending Balance 181,242 41,242 50,242 70,758) 57,242 185,242 Park CIP Projections.xls 12/3/99 CHAPTER 8 PLYMOUTH PARKS, TRAILS, OPEN SPACE, r° AND RECREATION PLAN Draft For Review December 7, 1999 SRF No. 0993351 TABLE OF CONTENTS Page 8.1 PURPOSE OF CHAPTER.......................................................................I............................ 8-1 8.2 PARKS 8-1 8.2.1 Park Types................................................................................................................ 8-1 8.2.1.1 City -Wide Facilities................................................................................. 8-5 8.2.1.2 Neighborhood Facilities........................................................................... 8-5 8.2.2 City -Wide Park Facilities......................................................................................... 8-7 8.2.2.1 Need for City -Wide Facilities.................................................................. 8-7 8.2.2.2 Planned City -Wide Facilities................................................................... 8-8 8.2.3 Neighborhood Park Facilities................................................................................... 8-11 8.2.3.1 Need for Neighborhood Park Facilities.................................................... 8-11 8.2.3.2 Planned Neighborhood Park Facilities..................................................... 8-12 8.2.4 Organized Sports Facilities...................................................................................... 8-23 8.2.5 Special Facilities...................................................................................................... 8-29 8.2.5.1 Possible Special Facilities........................................................................ 8-30 8.2.5.2 Planned Special Facilities........................................................................ 8-31 8.2.6 Golf Courses............................................................................................................. 8-32 8.2.6.1 Types of Golf Courses............................................................................. 8-33 8.2.6.2 Guidelines for Assessing Need for Golf Courses .................................... 8-34 8.2.6.3 Policies Related to Golf Courses............................................................. 8-39 8.3 CITY TRAIL AND SIDEWALK PLAN.............................................................................. 8-40 8.3.1 Types of Facilities.................................................................................................... 8-40 8.3.2 Regional Context...................................................................................................... 8-43 8.3.2.1 Luce Line State Trail................................................................................ 8-43 8.3.2.2 Hennepin Parks Regional Trails.............................................................. 8-44 8.3.2.3 Hennepin County Bicycle Transportation Plan ........................................ 8-45 8.3.2.4 Trails in Adjacent Communities.............................................................. 8-46 8.3.3 New Trails................................................................................................................ 8-48 8.3.3.1 Principal Corridors................................................................................... 8-48 8.3.3.2 Two -Sided Trails...................................................................................... 8-51 8.3.3.3 Trail Design............................................................................................. 8-53 8.3.3.4 Trail and Sidewalk Maintenance.............................................................. 8-54 8.3.4 Roadway Crossings.................................................................................................. 8-54 i TABLE OF CONTENTS continued Page o0.A TOT GREEII R A[T 4 V0ANROTHYYliJ1Ul\liliN Y tlI......................—...................................................................... o -.i1 8.5 NATURAL AREAS AND OPEN SPACE ....................................................... 8.5.1 Types of Natural Areas and Open Space .............................................. 8.5.2 Protection of Natural Areas.................................................................. 8.5.2.1 Acquisition........................................................................... 8.5.2.2 Regulation............................................................................ 8.5.3 Significant Natural Resource Sites ....................................................... 8.5.4 Management of City -Owned Open Spaces ............................. 8.6 RECREATION.................................................................................. 8.6.1 Recreation Programs............................................................... 8.6.1.1 Adaptive Recreation ................................................ 8.6.1.2 Arts.......................................................................... 8.6.1.3 Education Programs ................................................ 8.6.1.4 Special Events......................................................... 8.6.1.5 Sports Programming ............................................... 8.6.1.6 Miscellaneous Programs ......................................... 8.6.2 Special Recreation Facilities ................................................... 8.6.2.1 Plymouth Ice Center ................................................ 8.6.2.2 Plymouth Life Time Recreation Center .................. 8.6.2.3 Fieldhouse............................................................... 8.6.2.4 Plymouth Creek Center ........................................... 8.6.3 Volunteers............................................................................... 8.6.4 Collaboration........................................................................... 8.6.5 Technology/Customer Service ................................................ 8.6.6 School Districts....................................................................... 8.6.6.1 District 284 — Wayzata ............................................ 8.6.6.2 District 2 81 — Robbinsdale...................................... 8.6.6.3 District 279 — Osseo and District 270 — Hopkins .... ii TABLE OF CONTENTS continued 8.6.7 Other Public Facilities .................................................. 8.6.8 Private Sector Recreation ............................................. 8.6.8.1 Quasi -Public Organizations ......................... 8.6.8.2 Private/Commercial Facilities ...................... 8.6.8.3 Other Non -Public Providers ......................... 8.6.9 Strategies for Future Actions ........................................ APPENDICES Appendix A — Park Facilities/Inventory Appendix B — Sport by Sport Analysis Appendix C — Natural Resources in Plymouth Appendix D — Natural Resource Evaluation Appendix E — Trail Design Standards Appendix F — Park Prototypes Appendix G — 1998 - 1999 Programs Appendix H — Collaborative Partners iii Page Table 8-1 Table 8-2 Table 8-3 Table 8-4 Table 8-5 Table 8-6 Table 8-7 Table 8-8 Table 8-9 Table 8-10 Table 8-11 Table 5-12 Table 8-12 Table 8-13 Table 8-14 Table 8-15 Table 8-16 LIST OF TABLES Description of Park Types.................................................................................... 2020 City -Wide Park Facility Needs................................................................... Ultimate City -Wide Park Facility Needs............................................................. Neighborhood Park Service Area Analysis.......................................................... Park Improvements by Type................................................................................ Existing Indoor and Outdoor Athletic Facilities in Plymouth .............................. Participation in Sports in Plymouth..................................................................... Existing Special Facilities.................................................................................... Possible Future Special Facilities......................................................................... Comparison of Plymouth Population and Golf Courses to State Ratio ............... Public and Private Open Golf Courses within Plymouth Golf Usearea................ Plymouth City Housing Goals, Metropolitan Council Index and Comparison on Plymouth Use Area to State Ratio .............................................. Roadways Where Two -Sided Trails May be Considered .................................... Roadway Crossings and Intersections.................................................................. Significant Natural Resource Sites....................................................................... Special Events Attendance................................................................................... iv pgap 8-6 8-7 8-8 8-15 8-21 8-24 8-26 8-29 8-30 8-35 8-37 8-38 8-52 8-56 8-66 8-75 LIST OF FIGURES Figure 8-1 Existing Parks and Open Space ................................ Figure 8-2 Park System Plan ..................................................... Figure 8-3 Neighborhood Park Service Areas ........................... Figure 8-4 Golf Courses in Plymouth Use Area ........................ Figure 8-5 Existing City Trails and Sidewalks .......................... Figure 8-6 Luce Line State Trail ................................................ Figure 8-7 Hennepin Parks Trails .............................................. Figure 8-8 Hennepin County Bicycle Plan ................................ Figure 8-9 Trails in Surrounding Communities ......................... Figure 8-10 City Trail and Sidewalk Plan ................................... Figure 8-11 Northwest Greenway Concept ................................. Figure 8-12 Open Space Inventory .............................................. Figure 8-13 Significant Natural Resource Sites .......................... v 8.1 PURPOSE OF CHAPTER Parks, trails, and open spaces are some of the most important community amenities for Plymouth residents. They offer venues for a wide variety of outdoor activities and range from natural areas to lighted sports complexes. Recreation programs entertain, teach, and exercise residents, thereby forming a community that lives together and plays together. New residents move to Plymouth (and current residents stay in Plymouth) in part because of the programs and facilities offered by the Parks and Recreation Department, and in part because of the attractive environment of the community created by its extensive park, trail, and open space system. Since the first Plymouth parks Plan was completed in 1980, sports fields have been developed, open space has been bought and set aside, recreational and artistic programs have grown in number, and the trail system ties it all together. However, Plymouth continues to grow, and, in order to plan for the future, Plymouth must assess its current recreational offerings to ensure that the Plymouth park system is meeting residents' current needs and desires. In addition, the park system should be prepared to meet future demands, including increasing population, changing demographics, changing trends in organized sports, and increasing desire for non -motorized transportation. The purpose of the parks, trails, open space, and recreation chapter of the Comprehensive Plan is to determine recreation and open space needs in the City through the year 2020, and to identify improvements to meet those needs. In addition, the Plan documents actions that will be taken to meet the needs of the City if it develops to its ultimate capacity. The four major elements of the Plan are parks, natural areas and open space, trails, and recreation programs. 8.2 PARKS Plymouth's park system consists of seven types of parks divided into two broad categories: City-wide facilities and neighborhood facilities. Parks help to accomplish a variety of City goals, including natural resource preservation, trail connections, recreational programming opportunities, organized sports, art events, and historical and natural interpretation. Parks may be owned by the City or may exist as a cooperative agreement between the City and a School District or another governmental jurisdiction. The park system will need to grow with the City, ensuring that both current and future residents continue to be adequately served by the Plymouth parks system. The land within the Plymouth park system is used in many ways and all parks in the system provide one or more of the following uses: Recreational uses are the primary focus of most parks, and include any space designated and maintained for active recreation such as athletic fields and playgrounds. Ornamental elements are often included in parks to increase park diversity and improve aesthetic quality. Some examples of ornamentation include flower beds, decorative plazas, ornamental lighting, and other community beautification efforts. City of Plymouth Parks Plan (Draft 12/07/99) 8-1 Cultural elements may include interpretation, strictures, or programs aimed at increasing awareness of local history and the arts. Recent cultural elements implemented in Plymouth's parks include the covered bridge at West Medicine Lake, the log cabin at Parkers Lake, and various art fairs and concerts. Conservation areas are undeveloped parts of parks that are currently set aside as natural environments and which provide opportunities for passive recreation. Conservation areas are not permanent natural areas, as they may be utilized for active recreation if the need arises. Reserve park land is undesignated, City -owned park property for which a use has not yet been determined. Reserve land is important to provide space for facilities that may be needed in the future in response to changing trends and demographics. Some existing parks have reserve land within their boundaries, but such land is disappearing as Plymouth develops and diversifies its park system. All of the elements listed above (recreation, ornamentation, cultural, conservation, and reserve) should be considered as the City develops and acquires new parks. Land for new parks should be acquired in excess of identified park needs in order to maintain reserve land in the park system for emerging and unanticipated future park needs. 8.2.1 PARK TYPES The City of Plymouth currently has 44 developed parks in its system (including school parks), totaling over 900 acres. There are 5 City parks which comprise 375 acres, 8 playfields comprising 180 acres (a 9th playfield is included in Plymouth Creek City Park), and 31 neighborhood and school parks comprising over 350 acres. There are also several undeveloped City -owned park parcels. The specific facilities at each of these parks is outlined in Appendix X: Existing Park Facilities. Figure 8-1 "Existing Parks and Open Space" is a map of the existing park facilities in the City. There are seven different types of parks in the Plymouth Parks system. For purposes of needs assessment, these are grouped into two broad categories: City-wide Facilities and Neighborhood Facilities. The size and use guidelines for each type of park facility are provided in Table 8-1. The assessment of need for Citywide and neighborhood based park facilities requires two different analysis methods. The need for City-wide facilities is based on population and demographics. The need for neighborhood facilities is based on location and population. The need for organized sports facilities was also evaluated based on participation rates. School recreational facilities are included only in the analysis of organized recreation programs, not park facility needs. of Plymouth Parks Plan (Draft 12/07/99) 8-2 I). 8.2.1.1 City -Wide Facilities City-wide facilities include City parks, community playfields, special use parks, and school recreational facilities. City-wide facilities serve residents throughout the entire City. City Park: A large City-wide park focused on natural amenities and providing an experience unique in the City. City parks may serve as neighborhood parks in some instances (defined below). In these cases, amenities listed under "neighborhood parks" in Table 8-1 should be included in the City park. Community Playtield: City-wide facility primarily serving organized recreation. Community Playfields may serve as neighborhood parks in some instances. In these cases, the amenities listed under "neighborhood parks" in Table 8-1 should be included in the community playfield. Special Use Park: A City-wide facility with a specific focus, such as a nature center or a water park. There are currently no developed Special Use Parks in the City. School Recreational Facility: Any school in Plymouth that is NOT considered a school park defined below) is considered a School Recreational Facility. The City may utilize fields, gyms, and other facilities at these schools for programs and organized sports. All middle and high schools are considered to be school recreational facilities. 8.2.1.2 Neighborhood Facilities Neighborhood facilities include neighborhood parks, mini parks and school parks. These facilities are all intended to provide for park needs within a single service area based on a walking distance of one-half mile or less. Neighborhood park service areas are shown in Figure 8-3 "Neighborhood Park Service Areas." Neighborhood Park: A neighborhood park is designed to serve one park service area and to be within walking distance for nearby residents. Mini Park: A mini park is a smaller version of a neighborhood park with reduced amenities. Mini parks are provided only in areas that are geographically isolated from other parks, that are not within one-half mile of a park, that are small in size, and that have a population less than 1,000. School Park: A school park is a neighborhood or mini park that is located on public school property but is programmed and partially funded by the City. Not all school facilities are school parks. School parks are used only where a school exists within a service area that is not otherwise served by a neighborhood park. City of Plymouth Parks Plan (Draft 12/07/99) 8-5 TABLE 8-1 DESCRIPTION OF PARK TYPES Park Type 11 Area Served Park Size Focus Primary Users Primary Access Ownership/ Management Appropriate Amenities Active Passive Support CITY-WIDE FACILITIES City Park Entire City Minimum Passive and active Adults, youth Bike, foot, car, Entirely owned Recreation trails, beaches, Natrire/interpre- General purpose building with 20 acres recreation, natural transit and maintained by boating, open fields for sports tative trails, restrooms, off-street parking, resources, City picnicking, waste receptacles programmed events fishing Community Entire City 20-65 acres Organized recreation Youth, adults Car, bike, foot, Entirely maintained Sports fields, running track, Spectator Off-street parking, concession/ Playfield transit by City; most owned by tennis courts, skating rinks, seating restroom structure, City, some leased from basketball courts waste receptacles School Districts School Entire City Determined Organized recreation Youth, adults Car, bike, foot, Owned and maintained Sports fields, running track, Spectator seating Off-street parking, concession/ recreational by school transit by School District tennis courts, skating rinks, restroom structure, waste facility district middle and high basketball courts receptacles schools), but may be programmed by City Special Entire City As needed Specific use not found Dependent on Car, transit, bike, Entirely owned and Waterpark, mini -golf, skate- Environmental Off-street parking, others as use park for specific elsewhere in City amenities foot maintained by City board park, bark park, golf park, art park, required by special use amenity course living farm NEIGHBORHOOD FACILITIES Neighborhood 1/2 mile 5-20 acres Active informal play Families, elderly Foot, bike Entirely owned and Play apparatus, open field for Picnicking, Limited off-street parking Park radius maintained by City sports, trails, sledding, natural areas primarily accessible spaces), one park general skating rinks, small waste receptacles, open air service field games (such as horse- shelter area) shoes or shuffleboard), general play court, backstop for pick- up softball Mini -park Less than Less than Active informal play Families, elderly Foot, bike Entirely owned and Play apparatus, trails, small Picnicking On -street parking, waste 1/2 mile 5 acres maintained by City field games (such as horse- receptacles, open air shelter radius (less slices or shuffleboard), than one general play court park service area) School park I/2 mile 5-20 acres Active informal play Families, elderly Foot, bike Owned and maintained Play apparatus, open field for Picnicking, Off-street parking (primarily radius (one by School District; sports, trails, sledding, environmental accessible spaces), waste park service elementary schools), general skating rinks, small center receptacles, open air shelter area) sports fields maybe Held games (horseshoes or raked and striped, and shuffleboard), general play may be programmed by City court, sports fields City, jmouth Parks Plan (Draft 12/07/99) 8-6 8.2.2 CITY-WIDE PARK FACILITIES 8.2.2.1 Need for City -Wide Facilities The future residents of the City should be provided the same level of service by City-wide facilities as residents enjoy today. A measure of park service is the amount of park land (both total land area and actively developed land area) available per person. The acreage of City-wide facilities (including French Regional Park as a City Park) was divided by Plymouth's current population to derive an acreage per person standard. The City currently has 2.8 acres of community playfields and 3.4 acres of active City park land per 1,000 people. These guildelines were then used along with projected population to determine the future need for City-wide facilities in 2020 and with ultimate development of the northwest quadrant of the City. The projected need for City-wide facilities in the year 2020 and with ultimate growth is shown in the following charts. The National Recreation and Parks Association has moved away from setting numerical standards and instead has recommended a community based approach to park planning. While there are no current national standards, Plymouth's existing City-wide park facilities do meet the previously used national standards. TABLE 8-2 2020 CITY-WIDE PARK FACILITY NEEDS Park Type Acres Population Projected 2020 Acres/1000 based on 1999) Desired Acres Additional Acres from 1999 Additional Parks from 1999* Community Playfields Active 173 64,720 2.8 181 8 1 City Parks** Active 214 64,720 3.4 220 6 1 Total 695 11.1 718 23 Total Active 387 64,720 6.2 401 14 1 or 2 Total 868 13.9 900 32 Source for Acreage: City of Plymouth, SRF Consulting Group, Inc. Source for Population Projections: City of Plymouth Based on Park Size Standards listed in Table 8-I, and depending on actual size of park facility Includes French Regional Park City of Plymouth Parks Plan (Draft 12/07/99) 8-7 TABLE 8-3 ULTIMATE CITY-WIDE PARK FACILITY NEEDS Park Type Acres Population Projected Ultimate Acres/1000 based on 1999) Desired Acres Additional Acres from 1999 Additional Parks from 1999* Community Playfields Active 173 73,390 2.8 206 33 1 CityParks** Active 214 73,390 3.4 250 36 1 ort Total 695 11.1 815 120 Total Active 387 73,390 6.2 455 68 2 to 3 Total 868 13.9 1020 152 Source for Acreage: City of Plymouth, SRF Consulting Group, Inc. Source for Population Projections: City of Plymouth Based on Park Size Standards listed in Table 8-1, and depending on actual size of park facility Includes French Regional Park These tables give an accurate picture of how many acres need to be acquired for City Parks and Conummity Playfields in order to preserve current levels of service in the face of a growing population. 8.2.2.2 Planned City-wide Park Facilities As development occurs, primarily in the northwest quadrant of the City, there will be increased need for City parks and community playfrelds, and decreased land available to develop them. As a result, it is important to begin the process of selecting and acquiring needed land. The following actions are planned to meet the future need for City parks, community playfrelds, and special use parks: Select a site and acquire land for a 10th Playfreld. (Two possible sites are identified in Figure 8-2 "Park System Plan"). Develop the 10th Playfreld as need dictates and funds become available. Consider acquisition of land for an additional City Parkin the northwest quadrant. This park could be a unique type of City Park, incorporating a wide variety of other recreational uses, such as the Living Farm, the Northwest Greenway, wetlands, open space parcels, and pocket neighborhood and mini parks. Consider acquisition of land for expansion of two playfrelds if land becomes available. City of Plymouth Parks Plan (Draft 12/07/99) 8-8 Mi I: 8.2.3 NEIGHBORHOOD PARK FACILITIES 8.2.3.1 Need for Neighborhood Park Facilities Neighborhood park facilities include neighborhood parks, school parks, and mini parks. They are designed to serve only a small portion of the City. In some locations, the neighborhood facilities are provided within City parks or community playfields. The need for neighborhood parks is primarily based on geography, assuming a desired walking distance of less than one-half mile for all residents. A neighborhood park service area is a small geographic area that, to the extent feasible, is free from barriers such as major roadways and major bodies of water. Convenient and safe non -motorized access should be available to the park facility within that service area. Plymouth has been divided into neighborhood park service areas, each of which should be served by a neighborhood park, a school park, or one or more mini parks. Figure 8-3 "Neighborhood Park Service Areas" shows the City's neighborhood park service areas and a zone representing a one-half mile walking distance to existing parks. Since neighborhood facilities are designed to serve residents on a service area by service area basis, it is important to look at each service area individually to determine needs and make recommendations. Table 8-4 outlines neighborhood park needs and planned neighborhood park improvements for each Park Service Area. The level of park service in each neighborhood park service area was evaluated based on the distance residents would have to walk to access a park, as follows: Excellent. The service area is served by multiple parks and the entire area is within one-half mile of a park. Good. The service area is served by a park, and most of the area is within one-half mile of a developed park Fair. The service area is served by a park, but most of the area is not within one-half mile of a developed park. Poor. The service area is not served by a park, and almost all of the area is not within one-half mile of a developed park. In addition to walking distance and the presence of a park, the evaluation of neighborhood park needs also takes into account trail connections, dangerous crossings, size of park versus size of service area, and other factors. City of Plymouth Parks Plan (Draft 12/07/99) 8-11 5.2.3.2 Planned Neighborhood Park Facilities Providing adequate neighborhood facilities is primarily based on geography. Each neighborhood park service area (see Figure 8-3 "Neighborhood Park Service Areas") should be served by a neighborhood park, or by one or more mini parks. The current status of each service area may also have an affect on park recormnendations. The status of each service area falls into one of the following categories: Stable. Land in the Service Area is fully or almost fully developed and no redevelopment is planned. 2020 Urbanization. The Service Area is within the expanded 2020 MUSA area, indicating that it, or portions of it, will develop by 2020. Ultimate Urbanization. The Service Area is outside the expanded 2020 MUSA, is primarily rural, and its development future is rmclear. Planned improvements range from establishing better connections within neighborhoods, perhaps through signage or minor trail connections, to acquisition and development of new parks. Specific improvements are based on how well the area is currently served, the availability of land for parks, trails, or greenways and resident needs and desires. The general types of improvements and the service areas to which they should be applied are summarized in Table 8-5. City of Plymouth Parks Plan (Draft 12/07/99) 8-12 A 1 SERVICE AREAS LEGEND Q Park Service Area Neighborhood, City & Regional Park System Other Park & Open Space Half -Mile Walking Distance Lakes Parcels 1H CONSULTING GROUP, INC. T SRF NO. 0993351 December 6, 1999 ribPlymouth Comprehensive Plan TABLE 8-4 NEIGHBORHOOD PARK SERVICE AREA ANALYSIS Park Service Status of Area/Parks General Land Use Current Level Development in Serving Area Location Character of Park Service Service Area Planned Improvements 1 Northeast Suburban/ Fair Stable 0 Work with Hennepin Parks in programming undeveloped Eagle none Commercial Lake Park, including trail connection to Timber Shores Park across Bass Lake Rd. at Zachary Lane Establish trail along Nathan Lane to Three Ponds Park, and improve crossing of Bass Lake Road Establish connection to Maple Grove trail and park adjacent to eastern portion of service area Explore possibility of mini park in western portion of service area if parcels become available 2 Northeast Commercial Good Stable Work with Prudential to negotiate development of mini park on none corporate grounds 3a North Central Suburban Poor 2020 Work with Hennepin Parks in determining alignment of future Mud Lake Urbanization Regional Trail undev.) Develop Mud Lake as neighborhood park, and improve crossing of County Road 47, utilizing proposed Regional Trail 3b North Central Rural Poor 2020 Acquire and develop mini -park as area develops none Urbanization Explore possibility of establishing shared park with Maple Grove Implement east -west trail connecting service area to Regional Trail 4 Northwest Rural Poor Ultimate Develop City -owned Egan Park and improve crossing of County none Urbanization Road 47 Provide connections to proposed Northwest Greenway Trail for access to more distant parks Establish continuous trail along south edge of County Road 47 to Mud Lake Park, with crossings from neighborhood Explore possibility of establishing shared park with Maple Grove 5a Northwest Rural Poor Ultimate Acquire and develop neighborhood park or mini park as area Urbanization develops; 5b Northwest Rural Good Ultimate Currently no residential uses Elm Creek Urbanization Develop neighborhood park amenities at Elm Creek Playfield if Playfield golf course redevelops as residential City of Plymouth Parks Plan (Draft 12/07/99) 8-15 TABLE 8-4 NEIGHBORHOOD PARK SERVICE AREA ANALYSIS continued Park Service Status of Area/Parks General Land Use Current Level Development in Serving Area Location Character of Park Service Service Area Planned Improvements 6a Northwest Rural Poor Ultimate Implement Northwest Greenway to provide access to more distant Egan (undev.) Urbanization parks Develop City -owned Egan Park Possible location for 10th Playfield, including neighborhood park amenities, in this area 6b Northwest Rural Poor 2020 Improve crossing of Schmidt Lake Road to Gateway Park none Urbanization Develop neighborhood park in area #18 and improve railroad crossing; Acquire and develop mini park as development occurs 7a North Central Rural Poor 2020 Implement Northwest Greenway to provide access to other trails Mud Lake Urbanization and parks undev.) Develop Mud Lake as neighborhood park Work with Hennepin Parks in determining alignment of future Regional Trail Develop trail around Pomerleau Lake, and connect to future Regional Trail Acquire and develop mini park connected to Northwest Greenway 7b North Central Rural Fair 2020 Develop City -owned parcel adjacent to railroad as neighborhood none Urbanization park Provide connection to Turtle Lake Park across Schrrudt Lake Road at existing trail Work with Hennepin Parks in determining alignment of Regional Trail Develop trail around Pomerleau L., and connect to future Regional Trail 8 North Central Rural/ Suburban Poor 2020 Develop Mud Lake Park as neighborhood park Mud Lake Urbanization Work with Hennepin Parks in determining alignment of Regional undev.) Trail squire and develop mini park connected to Regional Trail as development occurs Work with Begin Oaks golf course to develop trail around south end of Mud Lake City of Y 'uth Parks Plan (Draft 12/07/99) " S-16 TABLE 8-4 NEIGHBORHOOD PARK SERVICE AREA ANALYSIS continued Park Service Status of Area/Parks General Land Use Current Level Development in Serving Area Location Character of Park Service Service Area Planned Improvements 9 North Central Suburban Good Stable Improve crossing of Northwest Boulevard and Pineview Lane to Bass Lake Bass Lake Playfield Playfield Work with Prudential to negotiate development of mini park on corporate grounds 10 Northeast Suburban Excellent Stable Timber Shores 11 Northeast Suburban Excellent Stable Three Ponds 12 East Central Suburban Excellent Stable Rolling Hills 13 East Central Suburban Excellent Stable Schmidt Lake/Zachary Playfield 14 Central Suburban Good Stable Improve crossing of Northwest Boulevard from western portion of Swan Lake neighborhood to Swan Lake Park, possibly utilizing future Elm Creek Trail Acquire and develop mini park in northwest comer of area, connected to Regional Trail 15 Central Suburban Good Stable Improve existing connection across Fembrook Road to Turtle Environment Lake Park Center Develop environmental center, including neighborhood park and athletic amenities 16 Central Suburban Excellent Stable Turtle Lake 17 West Central Suburban/ Rural Fair Stable Improve connections to Turtle Lake Park across Vicksburg Lane Gateway at 46th Avenue North Improve connections to Plymouth Creek Trail and Elementary School across Old Rockford Road at Dunkirk Lane If golf course redevelops as residential, a full neighborhood park will be needed City of Plymouth Parks Plan (Draft 12/07/99) 8.17 TABLE 8-4 NEIGHBORHOOD PARK SERVICE AREA ANALYSIS continued Park Service Status of Area/Parks General Land Use Current Level Development in Serving Area Location Character of Park Service Service Area Planned Improvements 18 West Central Suburban/ Rural Fair 2020 Establish continuation of Plymouth Creek Trail to Elm Creek none Urbanization Playfield and Wayzata High School Improve connection to Kimberly Lane Elementary, using Plymouth Creek Trail Implement railroad crossing to Elm Creek Playfield A.c uire and develop mini -park in northeast comer of service area 19a West Cental Rural Adequate Ultimate Improve connections to Hamel Legion Park in Medina Hamel Park Urbanization Medina) 19b West Central Rural Fair 2020 Acquire and develop mini -park in northwen portion of service area Greenwood Urbanization as development occurs Elem. School 20 West Central Suburban Excellent Stable Plymouth Creek Elem./Kimberly Lane Elem. 21 Central Suburban/ Excellent Stable Plymouth Creek Commercial 22 Central Suburban Good Stable Improve crossing of Fernbrook Road to Plymouth Creek Park Plymouth Creek 23 Central Suburban Good Stable Heritage/French 24 East Central Suburban Excellent Stable Mission Hills/French 25 East Central Suburban Excellent Stable Four Seasons/ PilgrimLane 26 East Central Suburban Good Stable Implement trail connection between Sunrise Park and Plymouth Plymouth Playfield Playfield/ Sumise/Kilmer/ City of P"— uthh Parks Plan (Draft 12/07/99) 1 ^Q-18 TABLE 8-4 NEIGHBORHOOD PARK SERVICE AREA ANALYSIS continued Park Service Status of Area/Parks General Land Use Current Level Development in Serving Area Location Character of Park Service Service Area Planned Improvements 27 Southeast Suburban Fair Stable Extend Plymouth Creek Trail to West Medicine Lake Park; West Medicine Consider mini -park in central portion of neighborhood if parcels Lake Park become available 28 Central Commercial Good Stable No residential uses none 29 Central Suburban Good Stable Maple Creek 30 West Central Suburban Excellent Stable Shiloh 31 West Central Suburban Excellent Stable Heather Ponds/ 32 West Central Suburban Good Stable Greenwood School Park 33 West Central Suburban Excellent Stable Green Oaks 34 Southwest Suburban Excellent Stable Imperial Hill 35 Southwest Suburban Excellent Stable Oakwood/ Fazendin 36 Central Suburban Excellent Stable Parkers Lake/ Shenandoah 37 South Central Suburban Excellent Stable Parkers Lake/ Lions 38 Southeast Suburban Good Stable Gleanlochd St. Mary's 39 Southeast Suburban/ Fair Stable Improve connections from within neighborhood to West Medicine South Shore Commercial I I I Lake Park and Trail, South Shore Park, and the Luce Line City of Plymouth Parks Plan (Draft 12/07/99) 8-19 TABLE 8-4 NEIGHBORHOOD PARK SERVICE AREA ANALYSIS continued Park Service Status of Area/Parks General Land Use Current Level Development in Serving Area Location Character of Park Service Service Area Planned Improvements 40 Southeast Suburban/ Good Stable East Medicine Commercial Lake Park 41 Southeast Commercial/ Poor Stable Improve connection from service area to La Compte Playfield none Suburban 42 Southeast Suburban Good Stable La Compte 43 Southeast Suburban Excellent Stable St. Mary's/ Rid emount 44 South Central Suburban Good Stable Sunset Hills Elem. School 45a South Central Suburban Good Stable Improve crossing of Vicksburg Lane from western portion of Birchview Elem. neighborhood to Birchview Elementary School Park School Park 45b South Central Suburban Good Stable Circle 46 Southwest Suburban Poor Stable Improve connections from within neighborhood to Luce Line none Trail, Dunkirk Lane Trail, and surrounding parks 47 Southwest Suburban Fair Stable Establish public access to Hadley Lake as development occurs; Queensland 48 Southwest Suburban Poor Stable Acquire and develop mini -park as parcels become available none 49 Southwest Suburban Excellent Stable Gleason Lake School Park 50 SouthwestI Suburban Fair Stable Improve connections from within neighborhood to Circle and none I I I Birchview Elementary School Parks Source: SRF Consulting Group, Inc City of P '— uth Parks Plan (Draft 12/07/99) 1^a_20 TABLE 8-5 PARK IMPROVEMENTS BY TYPE Park Service Development of Existing Acquisition and Development of Improved Trail Connections or Coordination With Other Public Agency or Area Neighborhood Park Facilities Neighborhood or Mini Park Roadway Crossings Private Party 1 X Within western residential area if X To Three Ponds and Timber X Hennepin Parks, Maple Grove parcels become available Shores Parks 2 X If developed as residential X Prudential 3a X Mud Lake Park X To Mud Lake Park X Hennepin Parks Regional Trail 3b X Mini park, as development occurs X To Regional Trail X Maple Grove, explore possibility of shared ark 4 X Egan Park X To Egan Park, Northwest X Maple Grove, explore possibility of shared Greenway I park 5a X Size depends on development intensity 5b X Elm Creek Playfield 6a X Egan Park X Possible location for 10th X To Northwest Greenway Playfield 6b X Mini park, as development occurs X To Gateway Park 7a X Mud Lake Park X Mini park, connected to X To Mud Lake Park, Northwest X Hennepin Parks Regional Trail Northwest Greenway, as Greenway, around Pomerleau development occurs Lake 7b X Parcel adjacent to railroad X To Turtle Lake Park X Hennepin Parks Regional Trail 8 X Mud Lake Park X Mini park, connected to Regional X Regional Trail X Hennepin Parks Regional Trail, Begin Trail, as development occurs Oaks Golf Course 14 X In northwest comer, connected to X To Swan Lake Park Regional Trail, if parcels become available 15 X Environmental learning center X To Turtle Lake Park 17 X Neighborhood park, if golf course X To Turtle Lake Park, redevelops as residential Plymouth Creek Trail, Plymouth Creek Elementary 18 X Parcel adjacent to golf course and X Elm Creek Playfield, railroad continuation of Plymouth Creek Trail City of Plymouth Parks Plan (Draft 12/07/99) 8-21 TABLE 8-5 continued PARK IMPROVEMENTS BY TYPE Park Service Area Development of Existing Neighborhood Park Facilities Acquisition and Development of Neighborhood or Mini Park Improved Trail Connections or Roadway Crossings Coordination With Other Public Agency or Private Party 19a X To Hamel Park in Medina 19b X Mini park, as development occurs 22 X To Plymouth Creek Park 26 X Connection between Sunrise Park and Plymouth Playfield 27 X In central area of neighborhood, if parcels become available X Extend Plymouth Creek Trail to West Medicine Lake Park 39 X To West Medicine Lake Park and Trail, South Shore Park, Luce Line 41 X To La Compte Playfield 45a X To Birchview Elementary School 46 X To Luce Line Trail, Dunkirk Lane Trail, surrounding parks 47 X Access to Hadley Lake, as development occurs 48 X If parcels become available 50 X To Circle Park and Birchview Elementary School City of P' nth Parks Plan (Draft 12/07/99) 1 1 8.22 8.2.4 ORGANIZED SPORTS FACILITIES The need for athletic facilities was evaluated based on participation rates, variables that contribute to facility demand, and facility adequacy. Leagues operated by the Park and Recreation Department and by other athletic associations play their matches on fields that may be City -owned, operated by the School Districts, or administered cooperatively by the Parks Department and a School District. Table 8-6 inventories municipal and School District facilities for outdoor and indoor athletic facilities. City of Plymouth Parks Plan (Draft 12/07/99) 8-23 TABLE 8-6 EXISTING INDOOR AND OUTDOOR ATHLETIC FACILITIES IN PLYMOUTH Facility P 'OO w^ O w y0y Up N m w N v v N ie T O c7 > O M City of Plymouth Facilities L U L U L U I O Plymouth Ice Center 2 Plymouth Playfield 3 3 2 Zachary Playfield 4 1 2 2 Plymouth Creek Park 2 1 2 2 Parkers Lake Playfield 1 1 1 I I Oakwood Playfield 2 I 2 1 1 LaCom to Playfield 2 1 Bass Lake Playfield 1 1 1 1 Rid emountPlayfield 2 3 2 Elm Creek Playfield 4 5 Parkers Lake Park 2 East Medicine Lake Park 2 West Medicine Lake Park I Lions Park I I Imperial Hill I Mission Hills Park 1 Robbinsdale School Facilities Plymouth Middle School 2 Armstrong Sr. High 1 1 1 3 + 2* Zachary Lane Elementary 2 1 Pilgrim Lane Elementary 1 I Wayzata School Facilities Wayzata East Jr. High 2 Wayzata Central Jr. High 2 1 1 3 3 Wayzata Sr. High 2 2 4+2* Kimberly Lane Elementary 1 1 1 Plymouth Creek Elementary I 1 1 Oakwood Elementary 1 1 Birchview Elementary 2 1 Greenwood Elementary 3 1 1 Sunset Hills Elementary I Gleason Lake Elementary I 1 Private Facilities West Lutheran H.S. 1 1 2 Lifetime Fitness 2 Medicine Lake Community Club 2 Totals 11 31 3 7 13 19 6 31 2 11 Note: Fields that are not programmed for organized athletic use are not included in the table. Source: City of Plymouth, SRF Consulting Group, Inc. L = lighted fields; U = unlighted fields I = indoor rinks; O = outdoor rinks jointly owned by City and School District City of Plymouth Parks Plan (Draft 12/07/99) 8-24 8.2.4.1 Need for Organized Sports Facilities The purpose of this analysis is to anticipate the trends of organized athletics resulting from changes in population, shifts in demographic characteristics, and movement in activity popularity. Projections are based primarily on known participation rates in Plymouth over the past 5 years, coupled with an understanding of nationwide trends. The strength of this approach is that it relies primarily upon community data rather than national norms or standards that may not be applicable to Plymouth's needs. Outside factors that affect the trend analysis include: The accuracy of the City's population projections. Changing community demographics as they affect age classifications. Changing per capita participation rates for each activity or youth category. Stability and leadership within Plymouth's various athletic associations. Continued coordination and cooperation between the City and School Districts in maintaining adequate facilities. The possible effect of increasing user fees on participation rates. Policy changes pertaining to resident/non-resident participation. Popularity and success of Twin Cities area professional sport franchises and performance of national and Olympic teams. Much of the information and recommendations contained within this section are based on the 1995 City of Plymouth Recreational Sports Facility Report. This report was a project of the Parks and Recreation Department, the Park and Recreation Advisory Commission, and the Youth Sports Task Force. The report outlines some athletic participation rates from 1991 to 1995, projects participation rates from 1995 to 2005, analyzes available facilities and facility demand, and offers strategies for meeting future demand. This section builds on the Recreational Sports Facility Report by including more recent data and refining trend projections. This Plan takes into account the development of Elm Creek Playfield, the Plymouth Ice Center, and other additions to Plymouth's recreation facility system since the 1995 report. The following factors will influence future demand for, and participation in, organized sports activities in Plymouth: The City of Plymouth's population will continue to increase over the next several years. As a result of this increase, there will be additional pressures to meet the recreational needs of the community. The composition of the City's demographics will soon begin to change dramatically. There will be an aging of the population as the baby boomers reach retirement age. This shift in the composition of the community will have an impact on the types of facilities and activities that the Park and Recreation Department will need to provide. City of Plymouth Parks Plan (Draft 12/07/99) 8-25 The City of Plymouth currently provides recreational opportunities for youth that live outside of the City's corporate limits, but attend the Wayzata School District. In some of the youth sports, over 30 percent of the participants reside outside of the City. Thus, population increases and changing demographic characteristics are not sufficient by themselves to evaluate future recreational needs. The following needs analysis should only be used as a guideline, as participation in specific sports and athletic activities can change dramatically from year to year. Above all, flexibility in design of new athletic facilities is crucial, in order to effectively adapt to changes that may occur. Table 8-7 shows a basic comparison of participation in each sport from 1995 to 1998. TABLE 8-7 PARTICIPATION IN SPORTS IN PLYMOUTH Sport Participation 1995 teams Participation 1998 teams General Trend Outdoor Youth Baseball/Softball — 60-75 foot bases 146 133 Minor decrease (9%) Youth Baseball — 90 foot bases _ 38 25 Significant decrease (34%) Girls Fastpitch Softball Minor decrease Adult Softball 238 160 Significant decrease (33%) Youth Soccer 287 433 Significant increase (50%) Adult Soccer Youth Football 28 36 Significant increase (29%) Adult Football 16 16 Same Sand Volleyball 16 8 Significant decrease (50%) Court Basketball Indoor Youth Basketball 157 Adult Basketball 141 134 Minor decrease (5%) Indoor Soccer 0 Significant increase Indoor Volleyball 70 45 Significant decrease (36'o) Hockey (indoor/outdoor) 52 69 Significant increase (33%) Aquatics Source for Participation Numbers: City of Plymouth Adult soccer is organized by groups outside of Plymouth. Some teams play half their games at home in Plymouth and travel for the other half. Approximately 8-12 teams have played their home games in Plymouth each year over the last 10 years. Information not available These sports see a great deal of their participation in the form of pick-up games or individual workouts. Therefore, It is diffrenit to gauge participation. 8.2.4.2 Plans for Organized Sports Facilities There are essentially five types of facilities that are used for organized sports: ball fields, soccer/football fields, sand volleyball courts, gyms, and hockey rinks. Each type of facility is described below with plans for accommodating participants. Each sport is covered in more detail in Appendix X: Organized Sports Analysis. City of Plymouth Parks Plan (Draft 12/07/99) 8-26 Ball Fields Baseball and softball have seen a decrease in participation over the past five years, significantly so in some age groups. With new fields at Wayzata High School and West Lutheran High School, facilities now currently meet the needs of participants, and with trends showing a continuing downturn, it is unlikely that any new fields will be required in the near future. The following actions will be taken to ensure that these needs continue to be met in the future: Flexibility in design is key in developing new facilities for baseball and softball. These sports pose scheduling and facility development challenges, as baseline requirements range from 60 -foot to 90 -foot configurations. Efficiency in games is an effective way to maximize field usage. This is best demonstrated by adult softball organizers. Baseball and fastpitch softball, however, can be difficult to schedule and keep on time. Baseball and fastpitch softball organizers will be encouraged to devise ways of maximizing the time efficiency of games. Monitoring participation trends is the best way to stay ahead of future needs, especially in sports such as these that may vary in participation based on external influences. By working with programmers, the City can predict the needs of participants, and be prepared if trends begin to show an increase in participation. Soccer/Football Fields Soccer has been the fastest growing sport in Plymouth over the past five years, and this reflects a national trend. Football has also seen an increase in participation. These trends are likely to continue, and Plymouth will need to consider developing additional soccer/football fields in the near future. The City will take the following actions to meet this future need. A focus on soccer at the 10th Playfield will increase both the quantity and quality of soccer facilities in the City. A soccer -centered complex will also keep fields together, which is desirable for tournaments and easier to maintain. Artificial turf fields will be considered in the development of new soccer/football facilities, paying special attention to the demonstration project at the Plymouth Creek Center. Maintenance and field care can drastically increase the quality and longevity of a soccer/football facility. By properly caring for the fields, especially goal mouths (soccer) and between the hash marks (football), and by enforcing rain -outs, the City can continue to use its fields to full advantage without having to rest or reconstruct them too frequently. Sand Volleyball Courts Sand volleyball players have, in recent years, begun to move to leagues offered by bars. This does not suggest, however, that there are too many public courts in Plymouth. In fact, there has been a great increase in pick-up games, which the City cannot monitor. The City has offered City of Plymouth Parks Plan (Draft 12/07/99) 8-27 both officiated and unofnciated games in the past, but a great majority of players preferred unofficiated games. It is likely that impromptu games in the City will increase, while organized leagues will decrease as players join bar leagues. Therefore, the City will take the following actions: Analyze impromptu use of sand volleyball courts to determine whether additional courts are wan -anted. Observe existing courts for intensity of use and speak with residents about their desires for additional courts. Develop new salad volleyball courts if demand requires it. New courts could be built along with a community water park or within an existing park. Gymnasiums The greatest challenge associated with the use of gyms is scheduling. Schools, the City and other organizations are vying for time for a variety of sports, namely indoor soccer, volleyball, and basketball. Plymouth has built four City -operated gyms since 1995, and Wayzata High School and Lifetime Fitness have also been constructed since that time. In addition, the Plymouth Creek Center will be used as an indoor soccer facility. All of these new facilities are important additions to Plymouth's recreational offerings, and provide the City with adequate indoor facilities to meet current demand. However, the continued rapid growth of soccer, as described above, will place an increasing burden on gym space during the winter season. Its effect on the scheduling of basketball and volleyball and its continued growth will require additional gym space in the future. The City will take the following actions to meet future needs for gym space: Continue to work with schools to maximize court time for Plymouth residents participating in organized basketball, indoor soccer and volleyball. Work with new schools to secure additional gym time in privately owned, School District owned or jointly owned gyms. Further analyze the need for indoor court facilities for basketball, volleyball and indoor soccer. The latter two sports were not considered in the 1995 Sports Facilities Report, so their effect on facilities and scheduling is not fully understood. When considering additional gyms, all three sports must be analyzed together. Hockey Rinks When the City of Plymouth Sports Facility Report was published in 1995, it was projected that youth hockey would grow by 33 percent over the next ten years. As part of those projections, the report indicated that 6 new rinks (4 outdoor and 2 indoor) would be needed by 2005. This trend has held true and, despite the construction of two indoor rinks at the Plymouth Ice Center, indoor City of Plymouth Parks Plan (Draft 12/07/99) 8-28 rinks are still in high demand. This trend is expected to continue, especially with increased participation in girls' leagues. Therefore, additional rinks may be needed. The City will take the following actions to address this need: Partner with adiacent communities in the development of hockey and figure skating facilities. Due to the expense of construction and maintenance of a high quality ice facility, the City may seek out partner communities that have a shortage of ice. 8.2.5 SPECIAL FACILITIES As the Plymouth Park System evolves, demographic changes occur and different activities become popular, there may be a need for special types of recreational facilities that do no currently exist in the City. Special facilities are recreational amenities that are unique in the community, and that are not included in the programming of a typical park. They are intended to increase the recreational diversity of Plymouth's park system. These special facilities may be provided as part of an existing park or as a stand-alone facility. Table 8-8 identifies existing special facilities and their providers. TABLE 8-8 EXISTING SPECIAL FACILITIES Facility Type Provider Day Camps Hennepin Parks (French Regional Park) Banquet Hall City of Plymouth as part of the Plymouth Creek Center Community Gardens Hennepin County Workhouse and City of Plymouth Community Nursery Hennepin County Sliding Hills City of Plymouth at Ridgemount Playfield Non -motorized Boat Rental Hennepin Parks (French Regional Park) Historical Interpretation City of Plymouth, Plymouth Historical Society (Old Town Hall and Parkers Lake Log Cabin) Ice Arena City of Plymouth Disc Golf City of Plymouth (Plymouth Creek Park and Zachary Playfield) Archery City of Plymouth (Plymouth Creek Park) Fishing Piers City of Plymouth(Bass Lake, West Medicine Lake, Parkers Lake, Three Ponds Parks) In-line Hockey City of Plymouth (Plymouth Creek Park) Performing Arts Venues City of Plymouth (Parkers Lake and Plymouth Creek Parks, and a mobile unit) Group Picnic Facilities Hennepin Parks (French Regional Park), City of Plymouth (Parkers Lake Park) City of Plymouth Parks Plan (Draft 12/07/99) 8-29 8.2.5.1 Possible Special Facilities The implementation of special facilities relies heavily on resident desires. A variety of special facilities are possible as shown in Table 8-9 and described below. However, special facilities should be provided by the City only to respond to demonstrated need. TAoLE u -^o POSSIBLE FUTURE SPECIAL FACILITIES Facility Type Potential Provider Bark Park City of Plymouth Miniature Golf City of Plymouth/Private Provider Indoor Playground City of Plymouth/Private Provider Outdoor Pool / Water Park City of Plymouth/Private Provider Remote Control Boat / Ail -plane Area City of Plymouth Art Park City of Plyinouth/Non-profit Arts Group Permanent Performing Arts Stage City ofPlymouth Environmental Park City of Plymouth/Non-profit Stewardship Group Community Gardens and Beautification CityofPlymouth/Community Grou s Living Farm/Equestrian Center City of Plymouth BMX Park City of Plymouth/Non-profit Group Skate Park I City of Plymouth/Non-profit Group Bark Parks" are a relatively new phenomenon in the Twin Cities area. Few communities provide facilities where residents can let their dogs run off leash. However, demand for these types of parks is high and the facilities that do exist are being used extensively. Miniature golf is a family activity that almost anybody can enjoy. The popularity of this sport continues to be strong. The City of Plymouth has no miniature golf facilities located within its borders. Miniature golf could be owned or operated privately or by the City. Indoor playgrounds have been successful in the Twin Cities area. They offer the benefits of active and varied play experiences, the safety of a controlled environment, and the advantage of accessibility even during inclement weather. Indoor playgrounds require a large indoor space, but could be implemented in conjunction with other fixture City facilities, such as a gym building, or could be provided in cooperation with a private or public partner. Outdoor pools and water parks are becoming very popular within the Twin Cities. The City has five swimming beaches but does not have a pool or water park. Lake swimming can be a problem due to the fluctuation in water quality, water level and water temperature. The operation of remote control boats and airplanes is increasing slowly in popularity, but it demands an environment free from other disturbances such as swimmers, large waves, anglers, power lines or tree cover. There are lakeside parks in Plymouth that could accommodate a designated area for small remote control boats, and open fields within existing parks that could be designated for full- or part-time use by remote airplane operators. City of Plymouth Parks Plan (Draft 12/07/99) 8-30 The incorporation of art works and events into existing'parks is a frequent occurrence as Plymouth's continitment to art in the parks increases. There is, however, no area specifically designed for the display of outdoor art. Environmental artists, sculptors, installation artists and performance artists are in constant search of venues to display their work. An art park would increase the enjoyment and diversity of Plymouth's parks, stimulate discussion and awareness about art, and offer installation and performance space to local artists. A permanent performing arts stage would provide a venue for bands, choirs, and theatre troupes within the City and would allow a higher quality of productions to be staged. A permanent stage could be built in place of the current amphitheater space in Plymouth Creek Park. An environmental park can meet both education and conservation goals. In addition to preserving and restoring a rare or endangered ecosystem, it provides for the interpretation of that ecosystem and of any restoration efforts taking place. The scale of such a park may range from natural surface trails with interpretive signage to a fully -staffed, year-round interpretive building. Opportunities for a variety of environmental parks exist within the City, and could be implemented either within an existing park, or as a new addition to the park system. Community gardens and community beautification go hand in hand, as gardeners often plant flowers within or around their gardens. Community gardens are specifically targeted to residents living in higher density developments, who may not have access to land for gardening. Gardens may be constructed within existing parks, in association with housing developments, or on newly acquired land. A living farm can simultaneously protect natural resources, retain agricultural land and interpret history. A living farm is a family oriented facility, and offers high quality educational opportunities to children. Living farms are becoming even more important as farmland becomes more rare in the metropolitan area. A living farm could produce vegetables, herbs, and other plants for sale to Plymouth residents and farm visitors, and could provide a site for community gardens. Bicycle moto-cross (BMX) parks are challenge courses for stunt bicyclists. This sport experiences fluctuation in popularity, but continues to have a dedicated following. A BMX park would provide a unique recreational opportunity primarily to teenagers. Skate parks provide a venue for skateboarding and in-line trick skating, activities that are experiencing an increasing level of popularity. Because other facilities (trails, sidewalks, schools, businesses, etc.) do not typically allow skateboarding or trick skating, a location that can accommodate these individuals may be desirable. 8.2.5.2 Planned Special Facilities There are no specific plans for special park and recreation facilities in the City at this time. However, two special facilities, due to their specific location requirements, deserve further examination: living farm and environmental park. Each is discussed more fully below. City of Plymouth Parks Plan (Draft 12/07/99) 8-31 8.2.5.2.1 Living Farm A living farm is a farmstead that has been preserved and is actively managed to demonstrate fann facilities, animals and fanning practices. A living farm would be a beneficial community asset from a variety of standpoints. Natural resource preservation, community gardening, historical interpretation, and educational programming can all take place through a living farm. In considering a living farm, the City will use the following process: Gauge the community's desire for such a facility. Select potential sites and begin acquisition process (the Baer Fat -in is one potential site and is shown on Figure 8-2 "Park System Plan"). Develop management plan for the site, understanding that extensive ongoing monitoring, maintenance and staffing will be required. Explore the possibility of partnering with other groups or municipalities such as Medina, Corcoran, Maple Grove, the Plymouth Historical Society, Hennepin County, and local colleges. Restore and upgrade the farm site. 8.2.5.2.2 Environmental Park Plymouth as a whole lacks outdoor environment education facilities, although some elementary schools are establishing small sites. Eastman Nature Center at Baker Regional Park is the nearest major center for environmental interpretation. An environmental park may take many forms, ranging in size, staffing, and maintenance. It may be incorporated into an existing park or it may be a new facility designed specifically for nature interpretation and education. A possible site for a new environmental park facility is the large City -owned parcel near I-494 and Schmidt Lake Road (see Figure 8-2 "Park System Plan"). A likely site for an interpretive area within an existing park would be the lowland hardwoods of West Medicine Lake Park. 8.2.6 GOLF COURSES Golf is a sport that is growing rapidly in popularity. According to the National Golf Foundation, there are over 25 million golfers in the United States today, who play on over 16,000 courses. Since 1986, the number of golfers in the United States has increased by 33 percent and the average number of courses being built per year has risen from 150 to 400. The Upper Midwest, in particular, has seen high participation in golf. Minnesota, Wisconsin, North Dakota, and Michigan are the top ranking states, each with approximately 20 percent of the population golfing on a semi -regular basis. Current information points to a vital golf economy in Minnesota, where the complement of golf courses has grown from 387 in 1989 to 469 in 1999. City of Plymouth Parks Plan (Draft 12/07/99) 8-32 The City of Plymouth is home to several golf courses and a large number of golfers. The consideration of public golf in the City is important for three reasons: Recreation diversity. The City of Plymouth strives to provide a variety of recreation opportunities to its residents. Natural resource preservation and enhancement. If designed properly, golf courses can help to preserve or restore native habitats such as forests, streams, wetlands, and grasslands because golf requires large tracts of undeveloped land. In order to be consistent with natural resource preservation goals and to ensure the retention or creation of natural habitats between and around holes, golf courses should be sited on suitable land of appropriate size; there should be on-site storm water retention; the use of chemical fertilizers, pesticides, and herbicides should be limited; and native plant materials should be used. Quality of life. Plymouth residents have come to expect the presence of public golf courses in the community and nearby. 79 percent of the respondents to the City's 1999 survey said that it was important to have publicly accessible golf in the City (Source: Decision Resources, hie.) As Plymouth's population increases, it will be important to ensure that this recreational diversity, natural resource preservation, and quality of life is continued. 8.2.6.1 Types of Golf Courses Golf courses may take numerous forms, and vary widely in cost, maintenance, challenge, accessibility to the public and other attributes. Courses can be described most easily by accessibility and length: Accessibility Public: operated by a government entity, such as a City, county, or parks department Private -- Open to the Public: operated by a private owner, but offering tee times to any user. This is the most common type of course. Private: operated by a private owner or club who charges a membership fee and provides tee times ONLY to members. Length 18 -hole: though these courses may vary slightly in par, they are full-length courses designed to offer a complete golfing experience. Par -3: an 18 -hole course consisting entirely of shorter (par -3) holes. This type of course is often used by beginning golfers, or by golfers with tighter schedules. City of Plymouth Parks Plan (Draft 12/07/99) 8-33 9 -hole: these courses offer all the challenge of a regulation 18 -hole course, but only offer 9 holes. It is possible to play the course twice, but users are more apt to play through once when they do not have time available to play a full 18. Executive 9: a 9 -hole course with a greater than average number of par -3 and par -4 holes. Aesthetics also play a role in course choice by golfers. Many avid golfers are willing to travel longer distances, and pay higher greens fees, to play a high quality course. For the purposes of this analysis, aesthetics are not considered due to their subjective nature. 8.2.6.2 Guidelines for Assessing Need for Golf Courses There is currently no accepted nationwide standard for quantifying the need for golf courses, as participation in the sport varies significantly from region to region. Rather, as in the case of park standards, it is important to select or establish a standard that best fits the community and its goals. The measure typically used to determine golf course needs is the number of holes per capita. According to the National Golf Foundation, in the nation's 315 Metropolitan Statistical Areas, the average number of holes per 100,000 persons is 78. This equates to approximately 4.3 eighteen -hole courses per 100,000 persons. This number, however, varies greatly by region. The Upper Midwest tends to have a greater number of holes per capita, while the deep south aside from Florida and the Carolinas) and metropolitan New England have much fewer holes per capita. In Minnesota, there are 4,685,549 people and approximately 400 public and private golf courses assuming 30 percent of the 469 existing courses are 9 -hole facilities, and count as half), which establishes a ratio of 8.5 18 -hole courses per 100,000 persons. This state -based ratio is significantly higher than the national average, but it should be emphasized that Minnesotans golf much more frequently than the nation as a whole. It is also important to note that the state ratio includes many outstate courses that are used only by vacationers. In Plymouth, according to the 1999 City Survey, 52 percent of the residents responding said they or a member of their household play golf. Most (89 percent) of these golfers do not belong to a private club (Source: Decision Resources, Inc., City of Plymouth). This analysis employs three methods for assessing the need for additional golf courses in Plymouth: A comparison of Plymouth's existing facilities to the state ratio A comparison of a Plymouth resident "Use Area" to the state ratio Results of the 1999 City of Plymouth resident survey City of Plymouth Parks Plan (Draft 12/07/99) 87 8.2.6.2.1 Existing Facilities Analysis There are currently 3 publicly accessible 18 -hole courses within the City of Plymouth Hollydale, Hampton Hills, and Elm Creek), and one 9 -hole publicly accessible course under constriction (Begin Oaks). Hennepin Parks is proposing to constrict a new executive 9 -hole course in Eagle Lake Regional Park. Because this course has not begun constriction, it is not included in the analysis that follows. Table 8-10 shows Plymouth's current and projected population in relation to existing publicly accessible courses and the state ratio. According to this analysis method, there is currently a golf course deficit in Plymouth, which will continue to increase as the population continues to grow. TABLE 8-10 COMPARISON OF PLYMOUTH POPULATION AND GOLF COURSES TO STATE RATIO Year Population State Ratio courses per 100,000) Current Number of Courses State Standard Need Deficit 1999 62,548 8.5 3.5 5.3 1.8 Projected 2020 64,720 8.5 3.5 5.5 2.0 Projected Ultimate 73,390 8.5 3.5 6.2 2.7 Source for population projections: City of Plymouth Source for state standard and current courses: Star Tribune, SRF Consulting Group, Inc. 8.2.6.2.2 Use Area Analysis Plymouth residents use golf courses outside of the City of Plymouth because of their proximity, and these courses are included in the "Use Area" analysis. Plymouth's golf use area was defined based on travel time. Most golfers live within 10 miles of the course they typically use, but golfers are willing to travel greater distances to gain some variety in facilities. The average golfer will travel 20 to 25 minutes on a regular basis to play golf. This measure of travel time was used to identify the area within which Plymouth residents are likely to golf (see Figure 8-4). Table 8-11 tabulates the publicly accessible golf courses in the Plymouth Use Area. City of Plymouth Parks Plan (Draft 12/07/99) 8-35 FIGURE 8-4 GOLF COURSES IN PLYMOUTH USE AREA City of Plymouth Parks Plan (Draft 12/07/99) 8-36 TABLE 8-11 PUBLIC AND PRIVATE OPEN GOLF COURSES WITHIN PLYMOUTH GOLF USEAREA Map No. Course Acres* Holes Access 1999 Fees ** Par Notes 1 Pheasant Acres 18 Private Open 25 71 2 Shamrock 18 Private Open 21 72 3 Rush Creek 18 Private Open 100 72 4 Brooklyn Park 9 Public 9 31 5 Eagle Lake Hennepin Parks) 18*** Public PROPOSED Exec. 9 and chip/putt course 6 Begin Oaks 9 Private Open Under Construction 7 New Hope 9 Public 9 27 Exec. 9 8 Hampton Hills 18 Private Open 22 73 9 Elm Creek 18 Private Open 27 70 10 Hollydale 18 Private Open 24 71 11 Baker National Hennepin Parks) 18 Public 29 72 12 Orono 9 Public 10 33 13 Brookview City of Golden Valle) 27 Public 24/ 9 72/ 27 Full 18 and Exec. 9 14 Theodore Wirth City of Minneapolis) 18 Public 25 72 15 Meadowwoods 9 Private Open 15 29 16 Glen Lake (Hennepin Parks) 9 Public 11 31 Total 225 Source: SRF Consulting Group, Inc., Star Tribune only determined for golf courses that are existing or under construction within the City of Plymouth based on weekend rates for maximum number of holes (18 or 9 depending on the course) not included in total number of holes City of Plymouth Parks Plan (Draft 12/07/99) 8-37 Table 8-12 compares golf accessibility in the Plymouth Use Area to the state ratio. According to this analysis method, there is a golf course deficit in the Plymouth golf use area as a whole, which will grow over the next 20 years without construction of additional courses. TABLE 8-12 COMPARISON OF PLYMOUTH USE AREA TO STATE RATIO Year Population in Use Area State Ratio courses per 100,000 Current Number of Courses State Standard Need Deficit Present 1999 300,000 8.5 12.5 25.5 13 Projected 2020 325,000 8.5 12.5 27.5 15 Source: City of Plymouth, Metropolitan Council, SRF Consulting Group, Inc. 8.2.6.2.3 Resident Survey The 1999 City of Plymouth survey included several questions dealing specifically with golf. According to the survey, a large number (52 percent) of Plymouth residents indicated that they or another member of their household play golf. The overwhelming majority of these golfers 89 percent) do not belong to a private club. These golfers tend to play a variety of courses both in and out of the metro area, but those that play one course regularly tend to play at Hollydale 14 percent), Baker National (8 percent), and Elm Creek (6 percent) most often. A large number of the golfers (37 percent) reported that they play more than 20 times a year. A significant number (28 percent) reported that they play over 30 times a year. This level of participation would probably rank golf second, behind walking, as the most frequent recreational activity of Plymouth residents. Specific questions were asked regarding the development of new golf courses and the need to retain the three existing golf courses in the City of Plymouth: Do you think there is a need for additional golf courses in the City?" Yes: 17% No: 65% Don't know/refused: 18% Should the City take steps to assure at least one of these courses remains open to the public?" Yes: 79% No: 10% Don't know/refused: 11% City of Plymouth Parks Plan (Draft 12/07/99) 8-38 Would you favor or oppose the City spending funds to keep at least one of these courses available to the public?" Favor or strongly favor: 54% Oppose or strongly oppose: 29% Don't know/refused: 17% Source: Decision Resources, Inc, City of Plymouth) Based on public response, it is not necessary to promote construction of additional courses within the City. However, based on the survey results, it should be a City priority to retain at least one publicly accessible 18 -hole golf course in the City. 8.2.6.3 Policies Related To Golf Courses The two analysis methods that utilize the state ratio describe a significant golf shortage in Plymouth and surrounding communities. The severity of this deficit may be the result of utilizing a state ratio that includes a disproportionately high number of golf courses per capita outstate. It does reveal, however, the importance of preserving existing publicly accessible courses. According to the 1999 City of Plymouth survey, respondents do not feel the need for additional golf courses within the City. They do, however, support the preservation of at least one publicly accessible course. Any of the four privately owned golf courses that currently exist or are under construction in Plymouth could be redeveloped for other uses in the future. If this occurs, the City will lose golf holes while it gains population. In order to satisfy resident desires and to maintain the present high level of service, quality of life, recreational diversity, and protection and enhancement of natural areas, it is important that Plymouth strive to preserve publicly accessible golf courses in the City. Public ownership would ensure accessibility to a golf course. A decision to seek public ownership of any of the existing private golf courses in the City would need to be made following a detailed analysis of the facilities and financing options. Based on a preliminary review of the characteristics (location, accessibility, topography, soils and water resources) of the three existing 18 -hole courses, it appears that Hollydale Golf Course would be the most suitable for conversion to a publicly -owned facility. The following policies will guide future actions with respect to golf courses: 1. The City will avoid policies, regulatory actions or economic pressures (such as assessments for public improvements) that would encourage redevelopment of the courses for other uses. 2. At least one publicly accessible 18 -hole golf course should be preserved within the City. If the availability of a public course is threatened, the City will consider acting to ensure City of Plymouth Parks Plan (Draft 12/07/99) 8-39 continued access by the public. Possible City actions may include purchasing and operating an existing course, creating a public-private partnership, or seeking other public agencies to purchase and operate a course. 3. Should the City determine the need to act to preserve public golf in Plymouth, first priority will be given to preserving the Hollydale Golf Course. 8.3 CITY TRAIL AND SIDEWALK PLAN Plymouth's current trail system is an established network of over 40 miles of City, county and state trails and sidewalks that connect most of the City's neighborhoods to parks, schools and commercial areas. Such a multi -use trail system, which can be utilized for walking, jogging, bicycling, and in-line skating, is a key amenity to many residents, especially those who regularly use non -motorized transportation. In addition, connecting neighborhoods to parks with trails reduces the need for extensive parking in the midst of recreational or natural areas, and contributes to the community's transportation systems. Figure 8-5 "Existing City Trails and Sidewalks" shows Plymouth's existing trail system in the context of existing parks and open space parcels. The City trails and sidewalks shown on this map are those that are maintained by the City. There are other sidewalks and pedestrian routes within the City that are the responsibility of homeowners or homeowners' associations. Through this Trail Plan, Plymouth will be equipped to continue to effectively implement a high-quality multi -use trail system. This Plan continues the framework that has already been put in place, and ensures that the next phase of trail implementation in Plymouth will meet the transportation and recreation needs of the community. 8.3.1 TYPES OF FACILITIES There are three types of facilities included in the Trail and Sidewalk Plan: trails, on -street routes, and sidewalks. Each of these facilities is defined below: City Trail: A City trail is an off-road, multi -modal, non -motorized facility that is 8 feet wide or greater. The surface may be bituminous, concrete, or crushed aggregate. A trail must be owned and maintained by the City to be a City trail. Trails owned by other public entities are also shown on the Trail Plan for reference. Privately owned trails are not considered to be part of the City's Trail Plan, and are not shown on this Plan. City Sidewalk: A sidewalk is an off-road facility designed for pedestrian use and less than 8 feet wide. The surface is usually concrete but may be bituminous. Sidewalks are considered City sidewalks if they are located within City right-of-way and owned and maintained by the City. There are only a few sidewalks in the City that are maintained by the City because they were part of the previous City Trail and Sidewalk Plan. These are the only sidewalks are considered to be part of the City's Trail and Sidewalk Plan. While there are no new City sidewalks proposed in the Trail and Sidewalk Plan, new sidewalks will be constructed in the City, particularly in the City Center, but these facilities will not be built nor maintained by the City. City of Plymouth Parks Plan (Draft 12/07/99) 8-40 Mi WO..Mal Y fli On -Road Route: An On -Road Route is a striped and/or signed bikeway on an existing road. All existing and planned on -road routes (state, county and City) are included in the Trail and Sidewalk Plan. 8.3.2 REGIONAL CONTEXT Plymouth's City trail and sidewalk system is complemented by a variety of additional trail corridors. State Trails, Hennepin County Regional Trails, and Hennepin County Bicycle Transportation Plan elements are all present within the City. In addition, many adjacent communities have trails that connect (or could connect) into Plymouth's system. Understanding and linking into this regional system will increase the recreational and transportation opportunities Plymouth can offer to its residents. 8.3.2.1 Luce Line State Trail The Luce Line State Trail is a multi -use, long distance trail that begins at Vicksburg Lane in Plymouth and runs westward for over 60 miles. For most of the trail's length, it is a two -track facility consisting of a crushed limestone path for bikers and walkers, and a parallel equestrian path. The Luce Line Extension, operated by Hennepin Parks runs eastward to West Medicine Lake Road. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has recently completed a Master Plan for the Luce Line State Trail (1999). While the Master Plan calls for little change within the City of Plymouth, there are proposed improvements west of the City that could increase trail use in Plymouth. Figure 8-6 shows the portions of the Luce Line Trail that are within and immediately adjacent to Plymouth, including neighborhood connections. FIGURE 8-6 LUCE LINE STATE TRAIL figure to be included in a later draft) City of Plymouth Parks Plan (Draft 12/07/99) 843 8.3.2.2 Hennepin Parks Regional Trails Hennepin Parks has developed a comprehensive trails plan that will eventually link numerous west metro parks, commercial centers and communities. These trails are used for both recreation and transportation, and all are hard -surfaced trails for biking, walking and roller-blading. The regional trails running through Plymouth include the East Medicine Lake Trail, which connects French Regional Park with the proposed Golden Valley Trail; the Luce Line Trail Extension, which is described above; the proposed South Medicine Lake Trail, which will connect the Luce Line Trail Extension with the East Medicine Lake Trail; and the proposed North Hennepin Regional Trail, which will connect French Regional Park to Elm Creek Park Preserve. Because the North Hennepin Trail corridor passes through Plymouth's 2020 urbanization area, it is important to consider the overall placement of this trail as development occurs. Figure 8-7 shows the Hennepin Parks Trail Plan as it relates to Plymouth. FIGURE 8-7 HENNEPIN PARKS TRAILS Source: SRF Consulting Group, Inc., Hennepin Parks City of Plymouth Parks Plan (Draft 12/07/99) 8-44 8.3.2.3 Hennepin County Bicycle Transportation Plan Published in 1997, the Bicycle Transportation Plan for Hennepin County provides design guidelines for on- and off-road trails, suggests crossing improvements, and shows a plan for the ultimate proposed bicycle transportation system for the County. The bikeways proposed by this plan are intended primarily for transportation, and may range in type from "share the road" lanes on existing roadways to "full accommodation," which includes dedicated bike lanes and off-road paved multi-purpose trails. Where facilities are planned, the County has made a commitment to implementing non -motorized facilities as roads are reconstructed. The City, therefore, can expect cooperation from the County with trail construction in the identified corridors, many of which are a part of Plymouth's Trail Plan. Figure 8-8 shows the Hennepin County Bicycle Transportation Plan as it relates to the City of Plymouth and adjacent communities. FIGURE 8-8 HENNEPIN COUNTY BICYCLE PLAN Source: SRF Consulting Group, Inc., Hennepin County Bike Transportation Plan, 1995 City of Plymouth Parks Plan (Draft 12/07/99) 8.3.2.4 Trails in Adjacent Communities Some communities adjacent to Plymouth have begun to implement their own trail systems. Connecting into these neighboring systems will allow access to additional commercial, recreational and employment opportunities for Plymouth residents. Hennepin Parks' Golden Valley Trail will connect to the East Medicine Lake Trail at the Plymouth Avenue bridge under US 169. In addition, Golden Valley has a concrete sidewalk along the south side of Medicine Lake Road (26`" Avenue in Plymouth) that offers connections to other trails and parks within Golden Valley. New Hope has a proposed trail plan with several connections into Plymouth, specifically at Rockford Road and at Bass Lake Road. New Hope has also applied for a grant to construct a pedestrianibicycle bridge across US 169 at 36`t' Avenue. Maple Grove will be connected to Plymouth by the proposed North Hennepin Regional Trail. Maple Grove also has a comprehensive system of park trails and City walkways, that will connect to Plymouth at Vicksburg Lane, Bass Lake Road, Sycamore Lane running north from Bass Lake Road, and Quinwood Lane. Medina has recently produced a preliminary parks, trails, and open space plan that shows proposed trails running into Plymouth just north of Wayzata High School and along the railroad line just south of the High School. The plan also shows the proposed Hennepin County bike route on County Road 24. Wayzata has a connection to Plymouth on the Luce Line trail, but otherwise lacks a comprehensive trail system. Minnetonka has an established system of bike lanes, walkways and loop trails. The City has continuations of Plymouth's trail facilities on Carlson Parkway, Gleason Lake Road, Cheshire Lane, Xenium Lane, Ridgemount Avenue, and Zachary Lane (Hopkins Crossroad). These trails connect to the longer distance Southwest LRT Trails. St. Louis Park has recently completed a Trail and Sidewalk Plan, and is proposing a trail along Shelard Parkway that will connect to Nathan Lane in Plymouth. Figure 8-9 shows the various existing and proposed trails in the communities surrounding Plymouth. City of Plymouth Parks Plan (Draft 12/07/99) 8-46 FIGURE 8-9 TRAILS IN SURROUNDING COMMUNITIES Source: SRF Consulting Group, Inc., Cities of Maple Grove, Golden Valley, St. Louis Park, Minnetonka and Medina graphic to be updated to include New Hope for a later draft) City of Plymouth Parks Plan (Draft 12/07/99) 8-47 City of Maple Grove L - - City of 1 City of CQR ran_ i- Brooklyn Park i_ City of IhJ i.- g w New Hope City of, " Crystal 7 City of Medina - '0:- of Orono-_ City1of ti "_ Golden Valle Of 0 Gly of Wayzata Regional Trail CV f St. Lows Park ' Existing Trail or Sidewalk trail/side walk plan e, Existing Onroad Route In progress '•• Proposed Trail or Sidewalk Proposed On -road Route I . Point to City -of` Ity of Hopkin• OConnection Plymouth Trail System Minnetonka Source: SRF Consulting Group, Inc., Cities of Maple Grove, Golden Valley, St. Louis Park, Minnetonka and Medina graphic to be updated to include New Hope for a later draft) City of Plymouth Parks Plan (Draft 12/07/99) 8-47 8.3.3 NEW TRAILS Much of the Trail and Sidewalk Plan deals with new trails. These proposed trail segments were determined based on the criteria described below. All of the proposed City trails, sidewalks, and on road bicycle facilities are shown on Figure 8-10. The Northwest Greenway, described earlier, would serve as the primary means for connecting Northwest Plymouth into the City's existing trail system and would complete a connected trail system that serves the entire City. The criteria used to select proposed trail segments include the following: Corridor gap closures. Some established linear routes are not connected along their entire length. These gaps should be filled, in order to offer a continuous transportation or recreation opportunity. Trail extensions. Some existing trails may be extended to connect to a point of interest not currently served by a trail. Connections between corridors. When trail corridors connect with each other, the opportunities available to users are multiplied. Where feasible, trail corridors should be connected together. New Corridors. New trail corridors are proposed, primarily in Northwest Plymouth, where trails do not currently exist. However, such trails must connect into the City's greater trail system. 8.3.3.1 Principal Corridors Several trails will serve as the "backbone" of the trail system, creating an integrated system with connections between neighborhoods, parks, schools, and commercial uses. These principal corridors offer the longest distance recreation and transportation opportunities, and will include directional signage at their principal intersections. The following is a list of these principal corridors and planned extensions and improvements. East Medicine Lake / Zachary Lane Trail. The completed Hennepin Parks Trail along the east side of Medicine Lake connects at 36th Avenue with City trails running southward along Zachary Lane. This trail will eventually connect with the proposed Golden Valley Trail on its south end and the proposed Eagle Lake Park on its northern end. Northwest Boulevard / Xenium Lane Trail. This major north -south corridor connects many neighborhoods with commercial/industrial employment centers south of TH 55. Some significant gaps do exist in this trail, including a hazardous crossing of TH 55. City of Plymouth Parks Plan (Draft 12/07/99) 8-48 i CITY TRAIL AND SIDEWALK PLAN LEGEND Existing City Trail Proposed City Trail Existing City Sidewalk On Road Bike Route Proposed On Road Bike Route Hennepin Parks Regional Trail Proposed Hennepin Parks Regional Trail Minnesota DNR State Trail Roadway where two sided trail/sidewalk may be considered Existing Parks, Open Space, and Schools Roadway crossings in need of improvement Existing Grade Separated Crossing Lakes f Parcels CONsUITmc GRourr INC. rib Plymouth Comprehensive Plan North Hennepin Regional Trail. When complete, this long distance trail, which heads north from French Regional Park, will connect Plymouth, Maple Grove, Brooklyn Park, and Anoka County. Neighborhood connections are needed in conjunction with the segment of the corridor that runs through Plymouth. Vicksburg Lane Trail. Vicksburg Lane is a major north -south thoroughfare that connects numerous neighborhoods to the City Center. Improvement of the TH 55 crossing is important. County Road 101. This is an important north -south route through the western portion of the City. There are currently several gaps in the corridor and a hazardous crossing of TH 55. This corridor should continue northward into Maple Grove when Peony Lane is extended northward from the high school. Luce Line / South Medicine Lake Trail. This corridor is a high quality off-road facility being constructed by Hennepin Parks. Plymouth will continue to maintain existing access and will seek new access points to this long distance corridor. Rockford Road / Country Road 24. This east -west corridor connects most of the commercial uses in the City and is one of the highest volume roadways in Plymouth. A pedestrian bridge is being built at the I-494 crossing. The corridor is continuous through most of the commercial area, but lacks pedestrian facilities in the western portion of the City. Plymouth Creek Trail. The Plymouth Creek Trail will eventually connect the West Medicine Lake Trail and West Medicine Lake Park with Elm Creek Playfield and Wayzata Senior High School. On its route, the trail will pass through two parks, a community playfield, two elementary schools, the City Center, and several residential neighborhoods. It will also connect with existing and proposed trails along Northwest Boulevard, Fernbrook Lane, Rockford Road, Vicksburg Lane, and Peony Lane. This trail is about 75 percent complete, although several gaps remain. For most of its length, the Plymouth Creek Trail is an independent trail with grade -separated crossings of major roadways, and this should be continued for the remainder of the trail. Appendix X describes the Plymouth Creek Trail Corridor in further detail. Northwest Greenway. This new corridor is covered in detail in Section 8.4: Northwest Greenway. 8.3.3.2 Two -Sided Trails There are certain roadways in the City that may pose a safety hazard for pedestrians and bicyclists due to high traffic volumes or other features. These roadways may be considered for trails on both sides, in order to provide safe access to the trail system from residences and commercial uses. After an initial demonstration of public interest, a final decision will be made based on the following criteria: Roadway functional classification of A -Minor Arterial or above Projected daily traffic volume of at least 10,000 ADT Identifiable safety concerns Available funding City of Plymouth Parks Plan (Draft 12/07/99) 8-51 Corridors that may meet these criteria based on 2020 traffic forecasts are shown in Table 8-13. These segments are not shown in any order of priority. Some of the roadways on which two- sided trails may be considered already have two sided trails. hr these cases, both trails are shown on Figure 8-10 "City Trail and Sidewalk Plan." The highlighting of entire candidate corridors on Figure 8-10 indicates the possible cornpletion of that corridor as a two-sided facility. In areas where a candidate corridor lacks any trail facilities, a proposed trail is shown and the corridor is highlighted. This indicates that a trail of some type is needed, but its specific location (or whether it is a two-sided facility) will be determined during the trail design process. TABLE 8-13 ROADWAYS WHERE TWO-SIDED TRAILS MAY BE CONSIDERED Street Segment Classification Traffic Volume* Rockford Road U.S. 169 to Fembrook Lane A -Minor Arterial 30,000 Bass Lake Road U.S. 169 to Northwest Boulevard A -Minor Arterial 25,000 CSAH 101 County Road 6 to southern City limit A -Minor Arterial 25,000 CSAH 101 County Road 24 to County Road 6 A -Minor Arterial 20,000 Rockford Road Fembrook Lane to Old Rockford Road A -Minor Arterial 20,000 Carlson Parkway Xenium Lane to southern City limit B -Minor Arterial 15,000 CSAH 47 Northwest Boulevard to I-494 Major Collector 15,000 CSAH 6 TH 55 to western City limit A -Minor Arterial 15,000 Fembrook Lane Rockford Road to County Road 6 Major Collector 15,000 CSAH 101 TH 55 to County Road 24 A -Minor Arterial 15,000 Northwest Blvd Rockford Road to TH 55 A -Minor Arterial 15,000 Peony Lane High School to TH 55 A -Minor Arterial 15,000 Vicksburg Lane Rockford Road to TH 55 B -Minor Arterial 15,000 Xenium Lane TH 55 to County Road 6 A -Minor Arterial 15,000 13th Avenue Kilmer Lane to Nathan Lane Major Collector 10,000 36th Avenue U.S. 169 to Zachary Lane Major Collector 10,000 CSAH 24 Old Rockford Road to western City limit A -Minor Arterial 10,000 CSAH 47 I-494 to Vicksburg Lane Major Collector 10,000 Fembrook Lane Schmidt Lake Road to Rockford Road Major Collector 10,000 Northwest Boulevard Bass Lake Road to Rockford Road A -Minor Arterial 10,000 Schmidt Lake Road U.S. 169 to Zachary Lane B -Minor Arterial 10,000 Schmidt Lake Road I494 to Fembrook Lane B -Minor Arterial 10,000 Vicksburg Lane TH 55 to southern City limit B -Minor Arterial 10,000 Vicksburg Lane Northern City limit to Rockford Road B -Minor Arterial 10,000 Zachary Lane Sunset Trail to southern City limit A -Minor Arterial 10,000 Source: SRF Consulting Group, Inc. Projected Average Daily Traffic Volume is greater than this number City of Plymouth Parks Plan (Draft 12/07/99) 8-52 l 8.3.3.3 Trail Design Trail facilities can take many forms. From paved roadway shoulders to hard surface trails in independent corridors, there are many ways to implement a trail project. The design of the trail within the corridor is directly related to the corridor's use, and each corridor must be analyzed in relation to type of use, skill level of users, purpose for use, and existing conditions. The Hennepin County Bicycle Transportation Plan is an invaluable resource for trail design. It sets forth standards for trails on various types of roadways, and relates compliance issues with certain types of funding, namely State Aid. It is also important to consult the appropriate Design Standards and Guidelines (see Appendix X). Choosing a trail type for a particular corridor or portion of a corridor should be based on several factors: Existing conditions Roadway or independent corridor. Type of roadway. Traffic volumes on roadway. Type of natural environment in independent corridor — wetland, woodland, or river Feasibility of trail construction. Type of connection Regional corridor or local connector Transportation, recreation, or both Anticipated travel distance Use of corridor Anticipated traffic volume on trail User types (bikers, walkers, inline skating, equestrians) User skill (highly skilled bike commuters, families with small children) User desires The trail standards that will be used for new construction in Plymouth are described in Appendix X. Some dimensions may vary in the detailed design phase due to existing conditions, right-of- way width, and other factors. City of Plymouth Parks Plan (Draft 12/07/99) 8-53 8.3.3.4 Trail and Sidewalk Maintenance City ordinance currently stipulates that the City will maintain all trails and sidewalks on the City's Trail Plan. (This ordinance does not apply to snow plowing.) The City will continue to maintain all City trails. There are a few sidewalks in the City that the City maintains because they were part of the City's previous Trail and Sidewalk Plan. The City will continue to maintain these sidewalks, which are designated in the proposed Plan as City sidewalks. It is not the current policy of the City to maintain any other sidewalks. While there are no proposed new City sidewalks in the Trail and Sidewalk Plan and it is generally desirable to construct trails rather than sidewalks due to their flexibility for users and ease of maintenance, the City may construct additional sidewalks in lieu of trails in the future due to factors such as funding restrictions or limited right-of-way width. In addition, it is anticipated that the City will receive fixture requests from property owners for sidewalk maintenance and reconstruction, and that the City may require the construction of additional sidewalks at the time of development. Therefore, the City needs to develop specific policies on sidewalk maintenance. Recommended policies have not yet been developed on this issue. 8.3.4 ROADWAY CROSSINGS Plymouth is cut into quadrants by two major thoroughfares, TH 55 and Interstate 494. It is also separated from communities to the east by U.S. Highway 169. These highways are major obstacles in the trail system, as bridges are often not pedestrian or bicycle friendly, underpasses do not impart a feeling of safety, and at -grade crossings put pedestrians and bicyclists in conflict with heavy and fast-moving traffic. There are several other roadway crossings in Plymouth that may also prove to be dangerous for pedestrians. These occur where two high volume local roadways intersect. Crossings of these major barriers are of primary concern in the Trail and Sidewalk Plan. There are a number options for overcoming barriers created by high volume roadways and dangerous intersections: Grade Separation Pedestrian/bicycle bridges Pedestrian/bicycle underpasses Expansion of vehicular bridge or underpass to accommodate bicycles/pedestrians City of Plymouth Parks Plan (Draft 12/07/99) 8-54 Improved Signalization Stoplights or stop signs for pedestrian/bicycle crossings Pedestrian only phase at major intersections Advanced pedestrian signals (the pedestrian "jump" signal) Pedestrian push buttons in the median (two step crossing) Warning signage or lights to alert vehicles of pedestrian crossing Intersection/Roadway Reconstruction Removal of free right turns Widened medians for pedestrian safety Reconstruction of roadways, driveways, and curb lines in commercial areas to restrict the number of access points, thereby reducing vehicular crossings of trails and sidewalks. Raised crosswalks Crosswalks with vaned pavement Traffic calming measures, such as neckdowns and bumpouts Figure 8-10 "City Trail and Sidewalk Plan" identifies unsafe roadway crossings and existing grade -separated crossings in the context of existing trails, roadways, and parks. Table 8-14 identifies the crossing problems and planned improvements for each crossing identified on Figure 8-10, "City Trail and Sidewalk Plan." City of Plymouth Parks Plan (Draft 12/07/99) 8-55 TABLE 8-14 ROADWAY CROSSINGS AND INTERSECTIONS Crossing Location Problem Planned Improvements CSAH 47 and I-494 Existing underpass not Grade separation: improve trail pedestrian friendly accommodation if underpass is reconstructed Schmidt Lake Road and I-494 Existing underpass not Grade separation: improve trail pedestrian friendly accommodation if underpass is reconstructed Rockford Road and I-494 Existing overpass not Grade separation: Pedestrian bridge being pedestrian friendly constructed by Mn/ DOT Planned Plymouth Creek Trail No existing crossing Grade separation: Expand creek culvert to and I-494 allow pedestrian and bike travel Planned Plymouth Creek Trail No existing crossing Grade separation: Expand creek culvert to and Fembrook Lane allow pedestrian and bike travel Improved Signalization: Route trail to existing 4 -way stop at 34th Avenue CSAH 10I/Peony Lane at TH 55 Unsafe crossing of high Improved Signalization volume roadway Intersection Reconstruction CSAH 24 at TH 55 Unsafe crossing of high Improved Signalization volume roadway Intersection Reconstruction Vicksburg Lane at TH 55 Unsafe crossing of high Grade separation: Explore possibility of volume roadway pedestrian over- or underpass Improved Signalization Intersection Reconstruction Plymouth Boulevard/Niagara Unsafe crossing of high Improved Signalization Lane at TH 55 volume roadway Intersection Reconstruction Fembrook Lane at TH 55 Unsafe crossing of high Improved Signalization volume roadway Intersection Reconstruction Xenium Lane/Northwest Blvd. at Unsafe crossing of high Improved Signalization TH 55 volume roadway Intersection Reconstruction South Shore Drive/Zachary Lane Unsafe crossing of high Improved Signalization at TH 55 volume roadway Intersection Reconstruction Roadway Reconstruction: Improve crossing during planned reconstruction of Zachary Lane. Rockford Road at Xenium Lane Unsafe crossing of high Improved Signalization volume roadway, Intersection Reconstruction unpredictable circulation Rockford Road at Northwest Unsafe crossing of high Improved Signalization Boulevard volume roadway Intersection Reconstruction CSAH 6 at I-494 Existing overpass not Grade separation: improve trail pedestrian friendly accommodation if overpass is reconstructed Carlson Parkway at I-494 Existing overpass not Grade separation: improve trail pedestrian friendly accommodation if overpass is reconstructed CSAH 101 at CSAH 6 Unsafe crossing of high Improved Signalization volume roadway, Intersection Reconstruction: Improve unpredictable circulation access to commercial areas. City of Plymouth Parks Plan (Draft 12/07/99) 8-56 TRAIL ON BOARDWALK TRAIL WITHIN WIDENED WETLAND BUFFER LIVING FARM i IELM 7VIAEGAN PARK TRAIL WITHIN EASEMENT cl? a TRAIL WITHIN POSSIBLE 1w CITY OPEN SPACE POSSIBLE LOOP TRAIL HOLLYDALE i1 NORRNVESTORE AYERPA BEGIN POnI&ECffO N9 S GOLF HAMPTON HILLS ro GOLF COURSE LANE TRAIL HOLLYDALE i1 OPTIONS FOR CONNECTION TO PLYMOUTH CREEK TRAIL LEGSW PLYMOUTH CREEK TRAIL NORRNVESTORE AYERPA GOLF COURSE POnI&ECffO N9 S VICKSBURG ro AND PNILR CONNECTED TO LANE TRAIL bORE AY NgIRMEST OREENNAY o Lu DVFN SPFCE -0R ACQ_ a% n0S IW4 ELM CREEK w yICCORDPoO REPORO N PLAYFIELD/WAYZATA CfIY T OTHER OPEN 51%CFS HIGH SCHOOL KIMBERLY LANE rf CkARAITAMV n 0 OPTIONS FOR CONNECTION TO PLYMOUTH CREEK TRAIL LEGSW PLYMOUTH CREEK TRAIL PLYMOUTF 55 CREEK L PARK MUD LAKE PARK w FUTURE HENNEPIN PARKS REGIONAL TRAIL i \ EAST MEDECINE LAKE TRAIL FRENCH REGIONAL PARK .. rOJRy,,p,ftCo„Pta, Plymouth Comprehensive Plan CONSULTING EN. PV ST GREEA WAYCOMCEPT 0 NORRNVESTORE AYERPA POnI&ECffO N9 S AND PNILR CONNECTED TO bORE AY NgIRMEST OREENNAY SPUi DVFN SPFCE -0R ACQ_ a% n0S IW4NORRSrGRDWAYTRP& yICCORDPoO REPORO N CfIY T OTHER OPEN 51%CFS HBJNEANPMI6T n 0 feet PLYMOUTF 55 CREEK L PARK MUD LAKE PARK w FUTURE HENNEPIN PARKS REGIONAL TRAIL i \ EAST MEDECINE LAKE TRAIL FRENCH REGIONAL PARK .. rOJRy,,p,ftCo„Pta, Plymouth Comprehensive Plan CONSULTING EN. PV ST GREEA WAYCOMCEPT 0 8.4 NORTHWEST GREENWAY The Northwest Greenway is a proposed new ecological and recreational trail corridor which could serve as a unifying concept for public and private land uses in the northwest quadrant of the City. By connecting open spaces, parks, and trails, and by preserving and interpreting high quality ecosystems, the Greenway would provide a significant amenity to existing and future residents of the entire City of Plymouth. The Northwest Greenway concept arose out of discussions with City Staff, the Environmental Quality Committee, and the Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission. The Greenway would stretch roughly from Wayzata High School and the Elm Creek Playfield eastward to Mud Lake Park and the future North Hennepin Regional Trail. The Greenway would accomplish several important goals: Preservation of upland ecological resources Establishment of wildlife corridors and connections Creation of a framework for acquisition and preservation of high quality open space Linkage among City -owned parks, trails, and open spaces Long distance recreational opportunities A Greenway, by definition, has a right-of-way that is significantly wider than a typical trail and consists primarily of native vegetation. The Greenway corridor may vary in width, depending on the land or easement available, but would be similar in character to a rail -trail such as the Luce Line, with a forested or grassland buffer on each side of a trail. Where the Greenway runs adjacent to wetlands, the wetland ecosystem itself would provide a large, scenic natural area for trail users, birdwatchers, and photographers. Where the Greenway crosses wetlands, the trail would be built on a boardwalk so as not to negatively impact the ecosystem. In essence, the Greenway, along with the nearly completed Plymouth Creek Trail and the future North Hennepin Regional Trail, would complete a large recreational and ecological loop that would complement the trail loop nearly in place around Medicine Lake. The Greenway would also be fully integrated into the regional and inter -community trail system, with possible connections to proposed Hennepin Parks, Maple Grove, and Medina trails. Right-of-way for the Greenway corridor could be secured in a variety of ways: Existing City parks New open space acquisitions Wetland buffers Conservation or trail easements on private property Dedicated trail easements, secured as development occurs City of Plymouth Parks Plan (Draft 12/07/99) 8-59 8.5 NATURAL AREAS AND OPEN SPACE Natural areas are vital community and regional assets. Wetlands filter water before returning it to the aquifers that, either directly or indirectly, provide Plymouth with its drinking water. Shorelands, upland forests and grasslands stabilize the earth, reducing erosion and increasing local water quality and clarity. Connected natural areas allow for the transport of seeds and the increase of genetic diversity, giving the ecosystem better resistance to diseases and pests. Natural areas also provide valuable amenities for Plymouth residents. The scenic value of natural areas contributes to the livability of a community and offers opportunities for natural resource based recreation, such as hiking, bird -watching, and nature study. Natural areas cool the City by breaking up pavement and providing shade, and give residents the simple pleasures of listening to birdsong, watching leaves tum color in the fall, or spotting animal tracks in the snow. Plymouth has made a strong commitment to the preservation of natural communities through both acquisition and regulation of unique natural resources. Equipped with an understanding of the existing natural resources within the community and the means of protecting and managing them, Plymouth can ensure that it will continue to benefit from high quality natural areas, clean water, diverse wildlife and plant life, and unique recreational opportunities. Plymouth's efforts to preserve natural resource areas should consider the following: Diversity. A good natural resource system incorporates many types of resource, including wetlands, uplands, grasslands, forest, open water, and marsh. By striving to preserve and manage diverse communities, a system of natural resource areas will encourage the greatest possible bio -diversity and scenic value. Proximity. Natural resource areas, by their very nature, should pervade the community, offering easy access from all neighborhoods. Connectivity. In order to allow wildlife access to a variety of necessary habitats, and in order to allow for seed transport to increase genetic diversity, connection between natural areas is important. Natural areas should function not as isolated systems, but as part of a connected whole. Quality. A system of natural areas should strive to preserve and manage the highest quality ecosystems. Parcels with the most diverse wetlands or the thickest forest warrant the highest level of protection, as they are the most likely to continue to flourish. All of these criteria need to be weighed along with the quality of the natural resource parcel in order to select which resource elements should be preserved. It is very important to have this evaluation mechanism in place before development pressures are extreme, or preservation efforts may be stymied due to the lack of understanding of the resource and of applicable protection measures. City of Plymouth Parks Plan (Draft 12/07/99) 8-60 8.5.1 TYPES OF NATURAL AREAS AND OPEN SPACE Collectively, areas that are home to some type of native vegetation, whether as a thriving ecosystem or as a degraded environment in need of restoration, are referred to in this Plan as natural areas or open space. Plymouth's system of natural areas and open space is comprised of many types of land, some owned by the City or other public agencies, and some protected by ordinance. This system includes: Conservation areas within parks (discussed in Section 8.2) Lands protected by shoreland, floodplain, and wetland ordinances Undesignated, undeveloped City -owned land Trail corridors Privately owned natural areas such as stands of woods on private property, natural areas within golf courses, and green spaces set aside by developments City -owned land City -owned open space (discussed below) Conservation areas, discussed further in Section 8.2, are portions of parks currently undeveloped and dedicated to passive recreation. City -owned land consists of storm water management ponds, tax -forfeited land, and other City - owned property which may or may not contain high quality natural ecosystems. These properties may also be used by the City for other purposes, such as storm water management or roadway construction, if the need arises. City -owned open spaces are parcels acquired by the City for the specific purpose of natural resource preservation. There are currently only 9 such parcels in the City, and these parcels benefit from the highest level of protection: City ownership with no intent for development. Figure 8-12 "Open Space Inventory" shows all City -owned open space parcels. 8.5.2 PROTECTION OF NATURAL AREAS The basic quality and effectiveness of a natural resource system lies in the parcels that comprise it. By acquiring or otherwise protecting high quality resource parcels, and then by connecting them using natural corridors, Plymouth can assure an overall system that meets its open space preservation goals. The selection of natural resource parcels to be preserved and appropriate preservation methods is a complex process that must consider other needs that may compete with preservation, such as housing development, active recreation and sports facilities, and roadway expansion. The City has two basic methods for preservation of natural areas: acquisition and regulation. 8.5.2.1 Acquisition Acquisition is the act of buying land, conservation easements, or development rights in order to gain control and management of the use of a particular parcel. Plymouth already owns an City of Plymouth Parks Plan (Draft 12/07/99) extensive system of parks and open spaces, many of which include high quality natural areas. Another acquisition strategy is to work with non-profit land holding groups, encouraging them to purchase and hold title to the land, either indefinitely, or until the City has the funds to buy the land. In 1994, numerous sites within Plymouth were evaluated for possible acquisition based on resource quality and availability. The resulting report, Evaluation and Ranking of Natural Areas, SEH, Inc.), gave a detailed overview of 30 sites for possible acquisition. Three of these sites were acquired through bonding funds approved by referendum in 1995. While the remaining sites have natural resource qualities that are desirable to preserve, it is unlikely that the City will be able to purchase the majority of these sites due to cost, availability and limited funding resources. Park dedication funds cannot be used for the acquisition of natural areas for preservation; they can only be used for acquisition of park lands. Additional bonding, which would have to be approved by referendum, may be required. 8.5.2.2 Regulation Regulation is the act of adopting and enforcing ordinances and regulations that protect natural resources on privately owned land. Regulation is usually less expensive than acquisition, but has the possibility of meeting with public opposition and legal implications. Ordinances must be carefully written in order to protect the resource without resulting in a takings lawsuit. Plymouth has several ordinances that protect natural areas on private land. The City's shoreland, floodplain and wetland ordinances protect water resources from development, working in concert with State and Federal regulations. They also establish a buffer around these ecosystems, protecting a transition area between wetland and upland resource types. Upland resources are not currently protected by City ordinance, state or federal legislation. The City's tree preservation ordinance is designed to discourage the removal of significant trees (individual specimens over a certain size.) However the ordinance does not require preservation of woodlands and applies only at the time development approvals are requested. The City has power to plan and regulate development through its land use planning authority and adoption of zoning and subdivision regulations. The City strives to work with developers as they design projects to protect the unique natural features of each site. Encouraging creative and environmentally sensitive site design can help protect resources that may be difficult to protect with regulations. The City can encourage protection of natural areas within private developments through conservation easements or through ownership by homeowners associations or other appropriate parties. In some circumstances, developers may find it advantageous to voluntarily transfer ownership to a public entity, such as the City. While such transfers will not substitute for City and neighborhood park dedication requirements, the City would consider each situation on a case-by-case basis. City of Plymouth Parks Plan (Draft 12/07/99) 8.5.3 SIGNIFICANT NATURAL RESOURCE SITES The 1994 Evaluation and Rankine of Natural Areas, (SEH, Inc.), provided a detailed overview of 30 sites for possible acquisition. Each ecosystem type within each site was evaluated based on resource quality and availability. Each resource was given a grade and prioritized based on those grades. The evaluation criteria used in the 1994 report are listed in Appendix X. Detailed information on the evaluation of natural resources and the sites that contain them is found in Appendix X "Natural Resources." Some of the 30 sites have been acquired by the City since 1994 and others have been developed. Table 8-15 identifies the remaining sites and gives a description and priority ranking based on the 1994 Plan. These sites are ranked based solely on ecological quality, not on parcel availability or cost. Figure 8-13 "Significant Natural Resource Sites" shows these significant natural resource sites in the context of existing City -owned open space and parks. City of Plymouth Parks Plan (Draft 12/07/99) TABLE 8-15 SIGNIFICANT NATURAL RESOURCE SITES Site Community Grade Rank Size** Location Notes Hi her Priority Sites C Oak Forest BC THR 48.9 Center of Sec. 4 Connected to Northwest GreenwayLowland Hardwood C SPC Willow Swam C SPC Cattail Marsh C SEC E Maple- Basswood C END 29.1 SW '/, of Sec. 4 Connected to Hampton Hills golf course G Oak Forest B THR 78.8 SW 'I/ of Sec. 5, NW '/. of Sec. 8 Connected to Northwest Greenway, adjacent to major wetland Willow Swamp B SPC H Maple- Basswood B END SW %, of Sec. 8 A portion will be used for neighborhood park I Maple- Basswood B END SW '/< of Sec. 8 Connected to Northwest Greenway, adjacent to major wetland O Hardwood Swamp C SPC 12.4 small peninsula" Willow Swam B SPC Maple- Basswood C END Cattail Marsh B SEC P Hardwood Swam C SPC 10.5 NW '/< of Sec/ 36 Willow Swam B SPC City of Plymouth Parks Plan (Draft 12/07/99) 8-66 TABLE 8-15 SIGNIFICANT NATURAL RESOURCE SITES continued Site Community Grade Rank Size** Location Notes Hi her Priority Sites continued Q Lowland Hardwood BC SPC 13.7 NE 'I/ of Sec. 35 R Tamarack Swamp AB SPC SW %. of Sec. 36 Extension of site acquired in 1995 bond referendum Cattail Marsh B SEC Emergent Marsh C SPC U Oak Forest B THR 30.1 NW'/.ofSee. 35 Willow Swam C SPC W Oak Forest N/A THR 24.3 Center of Sec. 31 Lake access planned Lower Priority Sites A Maple- Basswood B END 23.3 NW '/< of Sec. 2 B Oak Forest C THR 12 SE V. of Sec. 4 Adjacent to Pomerleau Lake and Hampton Hills Golf Course Emergent Marsh C SPC D Maple- Basswood C END 57.9 N '/, of Sec. 4 Within 2020 urbanization area, wetlands preserved under existing ordinances F Lowland Hardwood C SPC 16.3 NE '/< of Sec. 5 Connected to Northwest Greenway Ma le-Basswd B END Cattail Marsh C SEC J Willow Swamp B SPC 33.9 NW '/e of Sec. 6 Oak Forest C THR K Cattail Marsh D SEC 11.7 NW '/. of Sec. 16 Trail exists through parcel Emergent Marsh D SPC L Lowland Hardwood BC SPC 8.8 S %: of Sec. 12 Contiguous to Rolling Hills Park Oak Forest BC THR Cattail Marsh i BC SEC City of Plymouth Parks Plan (Draft 12/07/99) 8_67 TABLE 8-15 SIGNIFICANT NATURAL RESOURCE SITES continued Site Community Grade Rank Size** Location Notes Lower Priority Sites continued M Lowland Hardwood D SPC 18.5 NE '/, of Sec. 24 Connected to Plymouth Playfield and Sunrise Park, possible trail corridorEmergent Marsh D SPC N Maple- Basswood B END NW %. of Sec. 22 Possible entry point for I-494 crossing S Emergent Marsh C SPC 10 E %: of Sec. 35 Shrub Swamp C SPC Lowland Hardwood C SPC T Cattail Marsh CD SEC 12.2 E 'h of Sec. 35 v Pine Plantation NA NA 3.1 E''/z of Sec. 31 No native ecosystem Source: SEH, Inc. and SRF Consulting Group, Inc. END= endangered THR = threatened SPC = special concern SEC= secure See definitions in Appendix X Acres of resource, parcel size may be larger. City of Plymouth Parks Plan (Draft 12/07/99) 8-68 SIGNIFICANT NATURAL RESOURCE SITES LEGEND Higher Priority Open Space Lower Priority Open Space Existing City -Owned Open Space Parks and Schools Existing State, Regional, or City Trail or Sidewalk Proposed State, Regional, or City Trail Wetland T Lakes Parcels N CONSULTING GROUP, INC. SRF NO. 0993351 December 6, 1999 ribPlymouth Comprehensive Plan 8.5.4 MANAGEMENT OF CITY -OWNED OPEN SPACES In order to ensure the preservation and restoration of high quality natural areas and to economize maintenance efforts, the City will develop and apply a management plan for each existing and future City -owned open space parcel. These management plans are intended to accomplish several purposes: Ensure preservation of rare and high quality ecosystems, especially by protecting them from intrusion by exotic species. Determine appropriate level of maintenance for each City -owned open space parcel. Increase species and ecosystem diversity within the City through managed enhancement and restoration efforts. Each City -owned open space parcel will have its own, stand-alone management plan. Management plans will be prepared for all new parcels following acquisition. A appropriate management philosophy will be determined for each City -owned open space parcel that will emphasize one of the following approaches: Preservation. Resources of high enough quality and stability that they need only be left alone in order to flourish. Least maintenance. Protection. Highly sensitive resources, which require monitoring. No maintenance required unless the resource is threatened by development impacts or exotic species Enhancement. Resources are near their ideal species diversity, but require minimal infill of appropriate plants, and possible removal of non -natives. Ongoing maintenance and monitoring. Restoration. Most intensive management type. Recreation of a resource nearly from scratch or from a few remnant species. Reserved for native ecosystems that have become locally extinct. Requires the highest maintenance. Maintenance. Parcels where no resource exists and none is desired. Maintenance may include mowing and other routine tasks. Each management plan will include a detailed description of the parcel and its ecological characteristics. Each plan will also include a detailed description of planned maintenance practices and a description of the intended level of public access. By accurately describing an existing resource and by effectively applying appropriate management strategies, the City can begin to safeguard its current resources, even as these resources are gradually changing over time. For example, oak forests cycle into other hardwood forest types and emergent wetlands become more boggy. Resource management should not stall City of Plymouth Parks Plan (Draft 12/07/99) 8-71 or interrupt these natural changes, but should ensure that diversity and quality is maintained, and that threatened or endangered species are protected. Where appropriate, however, the management plan may call for complete restoration of an ecosystem, or replacement of an existing ecosystem with one that is more appropriate to site conditions. Resource management is a very specialized undertaking, and any enhancement or restoration may require the utilization of outside resources, such as an ecologist or other natural scientist. 8.6 RECREATION The purpose of the City of Plymouth's recreation program is to: "assist individual and community development, improve physical and mental health, enhance social functioning, and improve the quality of life for all residents." There are a number of current trends that will influence the future direction of recreation programs in the City of Plymouth. These include the following: Aging Population. Plymouth is projected to have 18.5 percent of its population over the age of 55 by the year 2020. As the population continues to age, increasing demands will be placed on health and social service agencies. Leisure service agencies are uniquely positioned to respond with health maintenance activities and programs. The social and service programs offered can and will make a difference in the quality of life for seniors and the length of time that they are able to maintain their independence. These programs will also add to the quality of life for all those who are enriched by these community -building activities of the seniors. Diversity. As the ethnic makeup of our community becomes more diverse, Park and Recreation activities provide a positive avenue for engagement and integration into community life. hitegrated and accessible leisure services are also critical to the quality of life for people with a disability and disadvantaged individuals. Environmental Emphasis. In 1995, 85 percent of participating Plymouth voters approved a referendum on Open Space and Trails. If this high level of local interest follows predicted national trends, this interest in preserving a healthy environment will go beyond the parks and open space to the activities and programs that are available. As people become more enveloped by technology, they have a real need to reconnect with the natural world around them. Recreation has the opportunity to provide not just wholesome nature -based facilities, but also programs that can provide a philosophical basis for living in harmony with our world. Wellness. As the cost of health care continues to rise, there is mounting interest in the health maintaining attributes of a healthy leisure lifestyle. Regular physical activity is one of the very best methods of "health insurance" for individuals. A strong commitment to active, creative recreation can pay big dividends by building a healthier community. Prevention. Positive programs, with connections to good role models, make a difference in the lives of not just youth, but all age groups. Leisure opportunities for youth provide positive lifestyle choices and alternatives to self-destructive behavior. In a world where many are tuning City of Plymouth Parks Plan (Draft 12/07/99) 8-72 out by tuning in to headsets and PC's that isolate individuals, healthy social interaction promoted by positive recreation programs is one of the cheaper prescriptions for mental and social health. World Economy. Competition is not just next door, but around the globe. New ideas and activities will travel at the speed of light. Those who are inflexible or who cannot change quickly will be outmoded and left in the dust. The Search for Meaning. Individuals are looking for more than just a pleasant diversion. Purposeful and fulfilling leisure activities will appeal to a population interested in personal growth and development. Meaningful leisure activity is an essential source of self-esteem and positive self-image. Flexibility. More than ever time is money. People are moving away from the highly structured, time-consuming team activities. Many are looking for the convenience and flexibility offered by more individualized, self-directed activities. Volunteerism. Increasingly, schools are requiring students to volunteer as part of their curriculum. Volunteers want to use and develop skills and abilities that are not being utilized in other areas of their lives. Families, and many work groups, would like to volunteer as a unit. Many volunteers are looking for shorter time commitments, rather than ongoing positions. Volunteering is a way for individuals to connect with their community and with other individuals. 8.6.1 RECREATION PROGRAMS Plymouth Park and Recreation provides a broad range of recreational experiences for youth through adults. The City's emphasis is on enhanced self-esteem, rather than on perfecting performance. The desired outcome is for the participant to feel good about themselves, their relationship with the other participants and instructor(s), and to have gained an appreciation for the skill or activity engaged in. These opportunities allow individuals to pursue personal interests, maintain physical and mental fitness, meet and socialize with neighbors, and build a greater sense of community. A complete listing of the Recreation offerings from the February 1998 issue of the Plymouth News through August 1999 is included in Appendix X "1998-1999 Programs." 8.6.1.1 Adaptive Recreation Plymouth is part of an eight -community consortium that contracts with West Hennepin Community Services for programming for residents with special needs. Plymouth has one of the highest rates of participation in these programs for youth through adult. During the summer (the highest demand season), an Integration Specialist is hired to facilitate the inclusion of City of Plymouth Parks Plan (Draft 12/07/99) 8-73 participants with special needs in general program offerings. Requests for integration during the rest of the year are handled by full time staff or on a consultation basis. 8.6.1.2 Arts The arts in Plymouth are presented to the community through a variety of venues including classes and workshops for all ages, public art exhibits and fairs, community theater productions and musical performances. As a member of the Music For Everyone consortium, Plymouth offers private and group music instruction to residents with opportunities for public recitals. The Plymouth Fine Arts Council (PFAC) is a non-profit organization that affiliates with the Plymouth Parks and Recreation Dept. Its mission is to promote awareness and appreciation of visual, musical and theater arts. To achieve this mission, its goals are to develop and promote artistic learning experiences; support local artists in their creative endeavors; provide creative and artistic viewing opportunities; and to encourage participation by individuals, families and businesses in arts programs within our community. PFAC incorporated as a non-profit organization in 1997 and receives funding from the City of Plymouth. There are currently eight board members on the council. They oversee dispersal of funds to community art organizations and special projects. For the past three years, PFAC has directed the Primavera Springtime Celebration of the Arts. Their ongoing art exhibits in the main corridor of City Hall feature a different artist each month. They also judge and present an award to the winning artist at the City's annual Autumn Arts Fair. The Arts Information Line provides updated information on PFAC and local arts programs and events. Arts organizations that cooperate with PFAC to serve the community are the Plymouth Community Concert Band, the Westside Players (Community Theater) and the Women of the West Quilters. Development grants from the State Arts Board have enriched the efforts of these organizations. Community residents can be involved with Arts in Plymouth by becoming a Friend of the Arts" with a pledge to PFAC. From this strong base of opportunity and support for the arts in Plymouth, community interest will continue to grow. The community band and theater are less than two years old and have projected increased participation and production schedules. With the addition of the Plymouth Creek Activity Center, there will be more space for scheduling art classes, rehearsal and performance space for musical groups, and additional visual art exhibits. An initiative to plan and commission more art in Plymouth's public spaces is now under development. PFAC will City of Plymouth Parks Plan (Draft 12/07/99) 8-74 continue to focus on fulfilling its mission by collaborating with the City, community businesses and agencies. More funding and designated recreation support staff will be necessary to keep pace with this growth. 8.6.1.3 Educational Programs While an effort is made not to duplicate educational programs being offered by the Community Education Departments, many programs seem to best fit in this category. Many of them are of a recreational nature and are not offered elsewhere in the community. The City's award winning youth environmental day camp, offered in cooperation with Hennepin Parks Naturalist staff, is an example of programs in this area. 8.6.1.4 Special Events According to a reliable and valid City wide survey conducted in the spring of 1999 as part of a staff person's master's thesis, Plymouth residents who had attended one or more City special events had a greater than average satisfaction with those events. There was an overall agreement that special events contribute to the highly rated quality of life in Plymouth. Currently, the Plymouth Parks and Recreation Department sponsors or co-sponsors eight annual special events for its residents. These events provide a common ground for celebration and develop community pride. Half of these events were developed within the last six years. The events are listed in Table 8-16. TABLE 8-16 SPECIAL EVENTS ATTENDANCE Special Event Years of Existence Attendance 1 or more times Music In Plymouth 26 76% Concerts at Parkers Lake Park 7 53% Fire & Ice Festival 10 45% Autumn Arts Fair 6 29% Plymouth on Parade 1 20% Old Fashioned Christmas 12 14% Plymouth History Fest 5 13% Primavera Arts Celebration 2 11% Source: City of Plymouth All of these events are free to the public. The City allocates a yearly budgeted amount to cover most of these events' expenses. However, these special events would not be possible without the support of the many civic organizations, businesses, and volunteers, who give of their time and sponsorship money to support these events. City of Plymouth Parks Plan (Draft 12/07/99) 8-75 Additional staff and resources will be required to manage current special events and add new activities as the City develops and grows in population. The Plymouth Creek Activity Center, to be opened on 2000, will serve as a gathering place for residents to participate in special events and celebrate community. Current practices of event promotion and collaboration in sponsorship will need to expand to accommodate growth and maintain resident satisfaction. Additional resources will need to be allocated to create a unified public relations plan for staying in touch with our community. 8.6.1.5 Sports Programming This is the City's largest program area. A wide variety of opportunities are available across all age ranges. Adult Sports Leagues are an area where Plymouth has long been an innovator. The City offers the traditional officiated sports (softball, basketball, and volleyball) and touch football as well as a comparable choice of unoffrciated sports (4 -Man Hockey, 3 -Man Basketball, 5 -Man basketball, 4 -Man Football, Indoor Volleyball, Sand Volleyball, and Broomball). The City's officiated and unofficiated programs each attract over 200 teams per year. The success of these leagues lies in the fact that the City has been able to maximize the use of available facilities and minimize the cost to participants. Aquatics programs are very popular. Plymouth operates three beaches. Medicine East was piloted as an unguarded beach in 1999. The City's Junior Lifeguard and Guard Start programs have been very helpful in training young people and preparing them for jobs within our system. The swimming lesson program has become year around, with the addition of school year lessons at WEMS. The demand for school year lessons is high and exceeds the City's ability to provide classes. The City has been able to meet the need for lessons during the summer months. A shortage of trained aquatic staff has had a major impact in these areas. In the future, the City may need to expand unguarded beach days and hours. Staff recruitment and incentives will be a continuing priority for the school year program. The LifeTime aquatic program has had an impact on summer lessons and the availability of staff. Individual Sports Instruction is an area where demand is high. The City offers both indoor and outdoor golf lessons in cooperation with other facilities. Over 400 residents annually take golf lessons. A wide variety of summer outdoor tennis lessons and leagues are available for all ages. Nearly 500 residents per year are involved in the City's tennis programs. Soccer is a very popular sport that consistently grows in participation. The City offers a fall developmental program using volunteer coaches. Participation rates by girls have continued to grow, with the publicity given the US Women's World Cup Team, that growth will expand. The completion of the field house at the new Plymouth Creek Center will expand opportunities for growth in this area. City of Plymouth Parks Plan (Draft 12/07/99) 8-76 8.6.1.6 Miscellaneous Programs This category contains those programs that do not fit neatly anywhere else. Specifically there are several social and outreach programs listed here. Plymouth Park and Recreation provides numerous programs for all age groups from pre-school through senior citizens. Two of these groups deserve special attention. Teens comprise a challenging age group for recreational programming. There are several programs open to this age group. But, as a general rule, this age group is under -served. Factors contributing to this situation include transportation, time conflicts and lack of facilities that appeal to this age group. One program specifically for teens is the Ski Club program at the four middle schools in Plymouth. Another is the U -Lead training for summer teen volunteers. As an employer, the department provides many youngsters with their first work experience, either as a volunteer or a paid employee. In many ways, it is the City's largest teen program. Many hours of training, development and supervision are devoted to these young employees. Seniors are another age group deserving special attention. Plymouth has had a part time Senior Coordinator for over 25 years. The 1980 Plymouth census reported that 9.5 percent 2,828 individuals) of residents were over the age of 55. The 1990 census reported that 11.5 percent (5,874 individuals) of the population was over the age of 55. This represents a 107 percent increase in the size of the senior population. Younger, more active seniors from 55 to 74 years olds make up the bulk of the senior population. There were 5,117 seniors in the 55 to 74 age ranges, and 757 over the age of 75. While 11.5 percent is a relatively small portion of the population, there are a wide variety of programs available for seniors. The program provides an array of classes, volunteer opportunities and events to connect, involve and support older people. Services include dial -a - ride and transportation provided by volunteer drivers, intergenerational programs, physical exercise classes, adult education, health screenings and senior outreach. Plymouth's percentage of senior population in 1990 was smaller than the metro area as a whole Plymouth 11.5 percent vs. Metro area 17 percent). hi spite of the difference, Plymouth's rates of growth have been tracking consistently with the region. If Plymouth's senior population continues to grow at the rate projected for the Metro Area in 2020, the number of seniors in Plymouth will expand to 18.5 percent of the population by the year 2020. With the addition of the Activity Center, there will be an attractive and available day time space in which to expand senior program offerings. The social aspect of the activities will continue to be paramount in all offerings. Areas where expansion is expected are: arts and crafts, intergenerational activities, sports and other active recreation, volunteer opportunities, service projects and outreach. City of Plymouth Parks Plan (Draft 12/07/99) 8-77 Q 6.2 SPECIAL RECREATION FACI! ITIF55 8.6.2.1 Plymouth Ice Center The Plymouth Ice Center (3400 Plymouth Blvd.) opened in June of 1997. There are two ice sheets: an olympic and a professional sheet. The center also has two meeting rooms: The Center Ice Room — with seating for up to 175 people The Blue Line Room —with seating for up to 39 people. Support facilities include ten locker rooms, one figure skating room with mirrored walls and ballet bars, and two officials' rooms. There are upper and lower level lobbies. Concessions are located upstairs with vending machines and restrooms on both levels. There are also arena offices on both levels. The Plymouth Ice Center offers learn to skate classes and specialty classes, as well as public open skating, parent and tots skating, and adult open hockey. The Wayzata and Armstrong High School Hockey teams use the Plymouth Ice Center, as well as Wayzata Youth Hockey, Armstrong Youth Hockey, Osseo/Maple Grove Youth Hockey and many other individual groups. The Ice Center is a free standing enterprise facility. Its revenues have exceeded expectations in the first two years of operation. 8.6.2.2 Plymouth Life Time Recreation Center The Plymouth LifeTime (3600 Plymouth Blvd.) Recreation Center is a three-way joint venture among the City of Plymouth, LifeTime Fitness and the Wayzata School District. The Center is attached to the Plymouth Ice Center and is adjacent to Plymouth City Hall. LifeTime is a for profit private fitness company. The facility offers a broad range of weight and fitness training equipment, aerobic classes, sports programs, youth program areas, and indoor and outdoor aquatic facilities. As a part of their agreement with Plymouth, LifeTime allows Plymouth residents to purchase daily passes for the use of their facility. 8.6.2.3 Fieldhouse The Fieldhouse (Plymouth Creek Park) has a fabric roof from mid-October to mid-April and contain a "state-of-the-art" artificial turf field (the closest thing to grass available). Soccer is by far the fastest growing sport in Plymouth and throughout the state. Over 5000 Plymouth residents participate, and many drive long distances in the winter to play indoors. The new fieldhouse will keep them close to home and also free up gym time currently being used for soccer. Other sports that may take place in the fieldhouse are: golf, softball, baseball, football, and tennis. The field is bordered by a walking/running track, which will fill another big winter need in our City. City of Plymouth Parks Plan (Draft 12/07/99) 8.6.2.4 Plymouth Creek Center Plymouth Creek Center (Plymouth Creek Park) will be highlighted by a 350 seat social hall, which will be encased by large windows overlooking a fountain and garden area. This will give the City a spot for many social gatherings from wedding receptions to musical performances. The City's senior population will have a home for their many activities, including a large lounge area complete with fireplace. The meeting and craft rooms will fill another big need for Plymouth groups. This facility will open in the spring of 2000. 8.6.3 VOLUNTEERS In 1993 the City of Plymouth initiated a formal volunteer program. By hiring a Coordinator of Volunteers, the City has been able to dramatically increase its volunteer usage and build on past successes. It has also allowed for more consistency in record keeping, recognition of volunteers, recruitment and placement of volunteers. The Coordinator has established a database of potential, current, and past volunteers and their interests, which allows for greater usage of volunteers. Plymouth's volunteer program is somewhat unusual for a City, since volunteers are used in all departments. Many staff have creatively become involved in the volunteer program with the parks and recreation department as the largest user of volunteers. There has been steady growth in Plymouth's usage of volunteers. In 1993, the total number of volunteers for the City was 482 (16 percent of those in P & R). These individuals contributed 2,095 hours. In 1998 there were a total of 924 volunteers who contributed 12,196 hours 87 percent of those in P & R). The value added[ to the City in 1998 was $167,451, with Park and Recreation accounting for $144,069 of that total. Volunteering is a significant way for community residents to help stretch taxpayer dollars. The volunteer program's steady growth over the past six years is now starting to level off. It is anticipated that the figures for future years will stabilize and be somewhat similar to figures for 1998. Future goals for the volunteer program include: increasing the training for the summer teen volunteer program, developing better written materials to send to special event volunteers, and working to ensure that the matches between volunteers and staff are the best possible fit. 8.6.4 COLLABORATION Plymouth Park and Recreation places a high value on cooperative efforts. Collaboration gives a synergistic energy to public recreation, with the outcome being greater than the sum of its parts. The City partners with a wide range of agencies, organizations and businesses in a variety of ways. This allows the City to leverage resources to present a wider variety of quality programs. Value added is computed by multiplying the total number of hours volunteered by $13.73, the per hour dollar value of volunteering in 1998 from the Minnesota Office of Citizenship and Volunteer Services. City of Plymouth Parks Plan (Draft 12/07/99) 8-79 An example of these efforts is CONECT, a network of community organizations serving at risk families living in apartment homes. CONECT introduces residents to the wide variety of resources available to them, including Park and Recreation. The City's collaborative partners are listed in Appendix X "Collaborative Partners." 8.6.5 TECHNOLOGY/CUSTOMER SERVICE The City of Plymouth has been aggressive in its use of technology to solve business problems and to provide greater customer service to its residents. Credit card payment for program registration has been accepted for a number of years. The use of credit cards opens the way for one of the first installations of touch-tone phone registration (TTR) in the country. TTR has been very popular with residents. It allows for 24-hour registration 365 days per year, a major break through in customer service. It also has freed up clerical staff time to devote to other expanding needs. The City's web site is also used for information regarding Recreation programs. Department staff is working with a software vendor on a product that would allow on-line availability of information on all Recreation programs and facilities. This technology would eventually lead to on-line registration and reservation of facilities. The days of standing in line to register for popular Recreation programs are over. A random mail -in registration system has streamlined registration for swimming, eliminating in person mass registration. The vast majority of customers are very pleased. The City will need to continue to find more and better ways to deliver services and to respond to the customers' changing needs. 8.6.6 SCHOOL DISTRICTS Plymouth is served by four School Districts. All of the districts serving Plymouth residents provide a variety of services through their Community Education Departments. Typically their programs include Adult Basic Education, Adult Enrichment Classes, Family Education, Facility Scheduling, Youth Development, and Childcare. Most of Plymouth's indoor recreation programs take place in area school facilities. The Districts also house many of the Youth Athletic Association's activities. While there are cases of competition and overlap in some program areas, in the main the relationship with the schools is cooperative and supportive. 8.6.6.1 District 284 — Wayzata This district serves 57 percent of City residents. Wayzata School District has seven elementary schools, two middle schools and one high school within City boundaries. All of these facilities have housed City Recreation programs at one time or another. In addition, the middle school located in the City of Wayzata has been used for Recreation activities. During the summer, the City of Plymouth Parks Plan (Draft 12/07/99) 8-80 Athletic Coordinator for the City schedules use of the District's outdoor sports facilities. City Recreation use has priority for scheduling indoor school facilities after School District events and Youth Athletic Associations. There are two Park/School complexes shared with District 284. The District contributed funds toward the construction of the City Ice Center and LifeTime Fitness in exchange for priority use of those facilities. Plymouth paid for the cost of constructing two additional gymnasiums at the new high school, for City priority use. Several Wayzata sports team rely heavily on the use of Park facilities for practices and games. The City has worked with the District to upgrade outdoor sports facilities and playgrounds at a number of schools. The Wayzata District sponsors the Communities in Collaboration Council and is a member of the CONECT Collaborative. Plymouth also participates with these two organizations. 8.6.6.2 District 281 - Robbinsdale This district serves 30 percent of Plymouth residents. Robbinsdale School District has two elementary schools, one middle school and one high school within City boundaries. All of these facilities have housed City Recreation programs at one time or another. During the summer, the Athletic Coordinator for the City schedules use of the District's outdoor sports facilities. City Recreation use has priority for scheduling indoor school facilities after School District events. The City of Plymouth paid for adding a gymnasium at Armstrong High School for community use. The City Athletic Coordinator schedules this gym after 6 p.m. One joint School/Park complex is shared with District 281. Several Armstrong sports team rely heavily on the use of City facilities for practices and games. The City has worked with the District to upgrade outdoor sports facilities at a number of schools and a playground at Pilgrim Lane Elementary School. The City participates with the Robbinsdale Community Education Department and other cities within the District in offering summer school programs and school release day activities through Just For Kids. 8.6.6.3 Districts 279 — Osseo and District 270 — Hopkins These districts serve 10 percent and 3 percent of Plymouth residents respectively. Neither District has any school facilities within City boundaries. The amount of interaction with these Districts is minimal. Youth Athletic Associations serving Osseo residents use Bass Lake Playfield and the Plymouth Ice Center. 8.6.7 OTHER PUBLIC FACILITIES There are a number of other public facilities that are available for recreation use on a cooperative or limited basis. City of Plymouth Parks Plan (Draft 12/07/99) 8-81 Golf Courses See Section 8.2.6 Hennepin County Library The library is a valuable resource for reference and multi -media materials. The Plymouth Library offers a variety of programs centered on reading for all ages. They provide a limited number of computers for public access to the Internet. Their Read Mobile is housed in Plymouth and makes scheduled stops throughout the community. They have two meeting rooms available for community use. Hennepin Parks French Park is located in Plymouth. It provides a variety of recreational resources including: boat launch, children's play area, swimming beach, large group picnic sites, naturalist lead activities, and two meeting rooms available for community use. Pike Lake Park is on the northern boundary between Plymouth and Maple Grove. It is scheduled for development in the near future. An instructional nine -hole golf course will be a feature of that park. Historic Sites Plymouth's "Old Town Hall" has been moved to Plymouth Creek Park. It houses the Plymouth Historical Society, and is open to the public once a month, or by appointment. Old Town Hall is used as the main location for the Old Fashioned Christmas in Plymouth special event. The Gilfillan Log Cabin replica is located in Parkers Lake Park. Since its dedication in February of 1998 at the Fire and Ice Festival, it has been used primarily for special events. Neighboring Park and Recreation Departments The neighboring cities of Maple Grove, Brooklyn Park, New Hope, Golden Valley, St. Louis Park and Minnetonka all have Park and Recreation Departments. They have a wide variety of facilities and program offerings. Plymouth has participated in a range of collaborative programs with them, from Adaptive Recreation to youth and adult athletics. Parkers Lake Golf Center This facility is owned and operated by the Hennepin County Correction Facility. It is home to all of the City's outdoor golf lessons. Plymouth City Hall The meeting spaces at City Hall have been used for a variety of meetings, classes, art displays and the Primavera arts special event. Plymouth Fire Stations Fire Stations II and III have both provided program space on a limited basis. Plan (Draft 12/07/99) 8-82 Wayzata Beach and Summer Program Plymouth has contracted with the City of Wayzata to provide summer aquatics programs at their municipal beach and at Wayzata West Middle School. 8.6.8 PRIVATE SECTOR RECREATION 8.6.8.1 Quasi -Public Organizations Westside Players Community Theatre — Plymouth Fine Arts Council Affiliate Plymouth Community Concert Band - Plymouth Fine Arts Council affiliate Women of the West Quilters - Plymouth Fine Arts Council affiliate Plymouth Historical Society — Co-sponsors Old Fashioned Christmas in Plymouth and Plymouth History Fest YMCA — Northwest and Ridgedale — The Ridgedale YMCA participates with CONECT. The Northwest YMCA is part of School District 281 collaboration for youth. Youth Athletic Associations — Plymouth contains residents of four School Districts, and our relationship with the youth athletic associations varies in each district. The Wayzata district associations contain 70-80 percent Plymouth residents. In the Robbinsdale district, the Armstrong/Cooper youth associations have 50 percent Plymouth residents. About 10 percent of north Plymouth is in the Osseo School District, and the remaining 5 percent of southeast Plymouth is in the Hopkins School District. For the Wayzata and Robbinsdale districts, Plymouth supplies outdoor and ice arena facilities based on their percentage of Plymouth residents in each program. Plymouth maintains soccer/football and baseball/softball fields with mowing, painting of lines, and dragging of infields. The City also supplies extensive field lighting. The City has one Playfield located in the Osseo district, which is used by those residents. Plymouth's population in the Hopkins district is minimal, as has been its involvement with their athletic associations. In addition to field maintenance, Plymouth offers associations assistance in training coaches and scheduling their games and practices. The fragmentation of the community by having four School Districts presents many challenges to our department, but the dedicated efforts of the countless volunteers in each of their athletic associations has given all Plymouth youth a wide array of quality sports programs. City of Plymouth Parks Plan (Draft 12/07/99) 8-83 8.6.8.2 Private/Commercial Facilities The following are facilities in the Plymouth area that serve Plymouth residents Beacon Height's Gym —privately owned rental gym space Blue Waters Sailing School —sailing lessons on Medicine Lake Bunker Simulated Golf Center— site for our youth indoor golf lessons Dance — nine schools Gymnastics Schools — six schools/clubs Harty's Boats — boat rental, docking and supplies LifeTime Fitness — fitness club developed in cooperation with the City of Plymouth, resident daily passes Long Lake Golf Dome — site for our adult indoor golf lessons Martial Arts — six schools Medina Ballroom —bowling and dancing Nursery Schools — nine schools Schmitt Music The Gym — weight lifting and fitness The Marsh — fitness club The Reserve — banquet and meeting facility West Medicine Lake Community Club — social club 8.6.8.3 Other Non -Public Providers Plymouth Park and Recreation utilizes the facilities of many churches and several private schools. Some of these facilities are available as a community service, others require rental fees. The City has also been fortunate to make use of several meeting rooms at apartments, banks and real estate companies over the years. City of Plymouth Parks Plan (Draft 12/07/99) 8-84 With ever -greater competition for public resources and increasing demands and expectations for service, it will be more important than ever to forge alliances with other community agencies, businesses and organizations in order to leverage resources to meet the needs of our community. 8.6.9 STRATEGIES FOR FUTURE ACTIONS The following policies will provide direction for the selection and implementation of recreational programs over the next twenty years in the City of Plymouth. Plymouth Park and Recreation cannot be all things to all people. The City will need to continue to partner with as many community groups and volunteers as possible, to leverage our limited resources while facilitating an array of programs that would never be possible on our own. Specifically, additional resources may need to be leveraged for Plymouth's at risk families. The influx of new ideas and activities will be arriving at an ever -greater speed. The City will need to remain flexible and open to change. The City will need a solid foundation of philosophy and policy, in order to keep the changes positive for our customers. Adequate staffing will continue to be a concern. Growing numbers of programs and participants strain current staffing levels. The number of qualified candidates for seasonal and part-time recreation positions has been dwindling. In the face of staffing shortages, decisions will need to be made concerning programming priorities. The City will also need to be creative in the search for job candidates, staff development and retention. Technology will help the City serve its customers well and remain abreast of trends. The City will need to keep current without getting ahead of the curve. Senior programs will become a more significant part of our programming as that population continues to grow. The City will need to remain abreast of the needs and wants of this age group as the baby boomers come of age with more active lifestyles and enhanced expectations. The Arts add much to the heart of a community. The City will need to continue to nurture and support the arts in a way that promotes independent growth of affiliated arts groups. Teenagers are the future of our community and country. The City will need to find ways to engage them in the planning for activities that will meet their interests and further their positive development. The City will continue to enrich current special events to enhance their role in building the sense of community by providing common ground for citizens to come together. The City will continue to view volunteers as a valuable community resource that can be tapped in creative ways. City of Plymouth Parks Plan (Draft 12/07/99) 8-85 Visits to Historic Places are among the fastest growing outdoor recreation activities according to "Outdoor Recreation in American Life: A National Assessment of Demand and Supply Trends" (Cordell, 1999). The City may want to identify its historic landmarks and work with the Historical Society to preserve and promote them. City of Plymouth Parks Plan (Draft 12/07/99) 8-86 96CIPPRK City of Plymouth 2000 Capital Improvements Program Park Projects Park Park Park I Project Park CIP Planning Park Dedication Dedication Replacement Community Other Number Project_ Year and Construction Playftelds Neighborhood 1 14ISA mprovemen Funding Total Other Funding Sources Notes Design Trails Parks t Funding and (CIT) { Sources Plymouth Creek Trail Lights 1 2000 30,0001 10,000 40,000 Trail Repair & Overlay 1 2000 50,0001 50,000 Portable Stage 2000 21,000 21,000 Activity Center 2000 100,000 100,000 Playground Replacement 2000 Zachary & St. Mary's 180,000 180,000 - Youth Sports Upgrade Greenwood School 2000 1 100,0001 100,000 Bleacher Replacement 2000 15,000 15,000 15,000 45,000 Risk Management New Trails 2000 50,000 1 50,000 Art in the Park 2000 10,000 5,000 15,000 Shenandoah Playground -New 2000 90,000 90,000 Transfer to Park Replacement 2000 25,000 10,000 I 35,000 _ Millennium Garden 2000 100.000 100,000 100,000 300,000 Fundraising _ 25,000 - West Med Park Vault Toilets 2000 25,0001 Neighborhood Park Land Acq. 2000 75,000 75,000 Sand Volleyball Etta Creek PF 2000 7,000 7,000 40,000Conus. Bulletin Board Elec. Sign 2000 40,000 Elm Creek Playfield Playground 2000 501000 50,000 100,000 Total 573,000 240,000 245,000 0 100,000 115,000 1,273,000 City of Plymouth Page 1 12/6/99 96CIPPRK City of Plymouth 2001 Capital Improvements Program Park Projects Park Park Park Project Park UP Planning Park Dedication Dedication Replacement Community Other Number Project Year and Construction Playfields Neighborhood MSA ImproN I Funding Total Other Funding Sources Notes Design Trails Parks Funding and (CIF) 1 Sources New Trails 2001 75,000 75,000 Trail Repair/Overlay 2001 50,000 50,000 Portable Stage 2001 20,000 20,000 Bleacher Replacement 2001 15,000 20,000 15,000 50,000 Risk Management Art in the Park 2001 15,000 5,000 20,000 Playground Replacement 2001 90,000 90,000 Ridgemount Playfield Shelter 2007 100,000 100,000 Transfer to Park Replacement 2001 31,000 16,000 47,000 Environ rwntal Park Playground 2001 720,000 120,000 Sand Volleyball Ridgemount PF 2001 7,000 7,000 Total 263,000 141,000 160,000 0 0 15,000 579,000 I City of Plymouth Page 1 12/6/99 96CIPPRK City of Plymouth 2002 Capital Improvements Program Park Projects Park Park Park Project Park CIP _ _Planning Number Project Year and I Park Dedication Construction Playrelds Dedication Replacement _ Neighborhood MSA Comm_anity I,fmprovemen Other Funding Total Other Funding Sources Notes Design Trails Parks Funding and (CIF) ' Sources New Trails 2002 1 75,000 75,0001 Portable Stage 2002 19,000 19,000 Art in the Park 2002 15,000 5,000 20,000 Playground Replacement 2002 90,000 90,000 Transfer to Park Replacement 2002 32,000 16,000 48,000 Mud Lake NB Park Development 2002 250,000 250,000 Zachary Playfield Building 2002 50,000 50,000 100,000 Contribution from Youth Baseball Total 191,000 271,000 90,000 0 0 50,000 602,000 City of Plymouth Page 1 12/6/99 96CIPPRK City ofPlymouth 2003 Capital Improvements Program Park Projects Park Park Park Project ParkCIP Planning Park Dedication Dedication Replacement Community Other Number Project I Year and Construction Playfields Neighborhood VISA mprovemen Funding Total Other Funding Sources Notes j Design Trails Parks 1. I Funding and (CIF) Sources New Trails 2003 1 75,000 75,000 Art in the Park 2003 15,000 5,000 20,000 Transfer to Park Replacement 2003 35,000 17,0001 52,000 Playground Replacement 2003 100,000 100,000 Land Acquisition -I Oth Playfield 2003 400,000 200,000 600,000 36th Avenue Bridge 2003 15,000 15,000 TOTAL 540,000 22,000 160,000 0 200,000 0 862,000 City of Plymouth Page 1 12/6/99 96CIPPRK City of Plymouth 2004 Capital Improvements Program Park Projects Park Park Park Project Park CIP Number Project Year I Planning and Park Dedication Construction Playfields Dedication Replacement Neighbm•hoodi Community Other MSA mprovemen Funding Total i Other Funding Sources Notes Design Trails Parl<s Funding unit (CIF) Sources New Trails 2004 75,000 75,0001 Art in the Park 2004 15,000 5,000 20,000 Transfer to Park Replacement 2004 38,000 17,000 55,000 Land Acquisition -10th Playfield 2004 250,000 250,000 500,000 TOTAL. 378,000 22,000 0 0 250,000 0 650,000 City of Plymouth Page 1 12/6199