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HomeMy WebLinkAboutPark and Recreation Advisory Commission Packet 09-14-2000Regular Meeting of the Park and Recreation Advisory Commission September 14, 2000, 7 p.m. AGENDA 1. Call to Order 2. Approval of Minutes 3. Visitor Presentations a. Athletic Associations b. Staff (Mary and Karol) c. Others 4. Report on Past Council Action a. Approved comprehensive plan b. Approved grant application for Greenwood School c. Approved grant application for skate park d. S. Unfinished Business a. Plymouth Creek Center update b. Millennium Garden update c. Comprehensive plan update d. Hilde Performance Center update 6. New Business a. Ferndale North open space - review proposed management plan b. 2001-2005 CIP - begin review of requests c. Review August park tour d. 7. Commission Presentation S. Staff Communication a. Change date of October meeting to the 19th 9. Adjourn Next regular meeting - October 19, 2000 n\parks\staff\erlc\prac\agendas\septdoc Minutes of the Park and Recreation Advisory Commission Meeting July 13, 2000 Page 30 Present: Chair Anderson, Commissioners Fiemann, Meyer, Musliner, Singer, Thompson Absent: Commissioner Wahl 1. CALL TO ORDER Chair Anderson called the July meeting to order at 7 p.m. in the Council Chambers. 2. APPROVAL OF MINUTES A motion was made by Commissioner Singer and seconded by Commissioner Meyer to approve the minutes of the June meeting as presented. The motion carried with all ayes. 3. VISITOR PRESENTATIONS a. Athletic Associations. b. Staff. Mary reminded commissioners that we still have a few concerts left. The summer carnival is July 18. The beach party is on July 25. High Noon performs on Aug. 1, Scandinavian Ensemble on Aug. 8, and Jonathan Pemberton Jazz Quartet on Aug. 15. Commissioner Thompson mentioned there was only one microphone at last Tuesday's concert, so it was hard to hear all the instruments. Senior activities at the Plymouth Creek Center are going very well. There's been good response to most of their activities. Some things have had to be cancelled, but that could be because of summer vacations, etc. Lots of new activities are being offered this fall. Trips are popular. The senior bike club has over 60 members. Beaches have been operating safely so far, and are very busy due to the warm weather. We continue to have issues with water quality and swimmers itch. Staff is now working on fall programs, and we're looking ahead to fall special events — The Chocolate Sampler and Plymouth on Parade. Chair Anderson asked where the bike club goes riding. Mary said a variety of places. They have had a few overnight trips out of town. Commissioner Fiemann asked if anything can be done about swimmers itch. Director Blank said we spray the beaches as soon as we get a report of swimmers itch. Mary explained the best way to get rid of it is to shower immediately after swimming and towel off vigorously. c. Others. There were no other presentations. 4. PAST COUNCIL ACTION a. Approved 2000-01 rental fees for fieldhouse and rental fees without any changes. Wednesday was walking/jogging. Council approved the n as the free day for PRAC Minutes/July 2000 Page 31 5. UNFINISHED BUSINESS a. Plymouth Creek Center update. There are some new furnishing to purchase, such as outside furniture for the deck, a new TV, plants, etc. Crews are finishing up with landscaping, etc. The project is still under budget. Director Blank said he just finished a day long budget review for the Plymouth Creek Center. We are asking for more staff there — a full time custodian and half time clerical. We may get the janitor yet this year. b. Millennium Garden update. Director Blank introduced the landscape consultant, George Watson, and said that he would bring PRAC up to date on the garden plan. The stewards have met and have reviewed the plan. They like it. After PRAC reviews it, it will be forwarded to the City Council. Mr. Watson said a number of ideas were incorporated into one plan. He explained that they concentrated the core of the development in a relatively small area. A donor recognition area was added, which is up front and center. The ceremonial art display will be used for set up of things that need to be on hard surfaces. The grand lawn will be for large groups of up to 250-300 people, 1/4 acre in size. The exhibit area will be at the same elevation as the grand lawn. The exhibit area could be maintained for smaller groups as well. In terms of planting, there's a gradation of formal and informal plantings, perennials and annuals, for seasonal color. This will gradually transition to a more natural area. There will be a native plant area consisting of shrubs, trees, etc. Flagstone pavers will be used to lead you around the garden. There will be small alcoves for art, which could be permanent art or temporary displays on pedestals. Benches could be added to the garden over time. The plan will continue to evolve over time as the park gets used. Mr. Watson suggested that the City develop some areas into natural prairie grasses, etc. and also that rustic bridges be constructed over some of the waterways rather than using hand rails. The ceremonial area would have a different elevation than the grand lawn. He pointed out areas where arbor structures could be. Commissioner Fiemann asked if there was going to be lighting in the main area. Director Blank said it's already there. Mr. Watson indicated where he thought lighting would be important. The floating boardwalk would connect to the trail that leads to city hall. Mr. Watson pointed out a wide access service entrance, which is a hard asphalt surface. He also explained that there's a shredded tree bark that meets the standards for handicapped accessibility. Commissioners Musliner and Singer said they are very impressed with the plan. Commissioner Singer asked about the maze. Mr. Watson said it was decided to go with a labyrinth, because it's a lot easier to maintain than a maze. Director Blank said there will be signage to identify the various plantings, etc. Director Blank said we've raised about $41,000 so far with the sale of bricks and pledges. A couple of families want to do some rather large memorials, in the area of $5,000. Director Blank and the Mayor will soon be going to large businesses to ask for pledges. The fundraising consultant is now reviewing this information. He will choose 100 companies to visit. Benches cost 1,000 and several families have said they want benches. Director Blank is developing a new idea of adding into the walkway the names of all the former council members and mayors in an effort to link the past to the future. Packets of information on the garden are now being developed for showing to the businesses. There has been tremendous response from the community. We're also looking for in-kind donations from businesses. PRAC Minutes/July 2000 Page 32 c. Comprehensive plan update. The comprehensive plan is scheduled to be approved by the Metropolitan Council on July 26. Then it will come back for approval by the City Council. 6. NEW BUSINESS a. Hilde performance stage. As of two weeks ago, we have an agreement with Mr. Hilde. Director Blank said he received a signed contract July 6. Sound and lighting studies will begin soon. The agreement is a non-binding agreement. We now have to do a binding agreement. We're on a timeline to break ground after Music in Plymouth next year. We have 11 months to come up with a design. The City Council is very committed to getting community input for this. There will be some public meetings, perhaps before PRAC. It will be in the same location as the current concrete stage. It may have to be moved south slightly. It will be large enough to hold the Minnesota Orchestra. The showmobile did not sell. We still have it and will continue to use it. 7. COMMISSION PRESENTATION Commissioner Thompson said a family in her neighborhood has sent out hundreds of letters regarding the possible loss of the golf course when Holly Lane is updated. Director Blank said a portion of the golf course parking lot is on road right of way and that some adjustments will have to be made over that. Commissioner Thompson also mentioned that some land has sunk at the baseball field #6 at Plymouth Creek and that some lighting is out. She also asked why bathrooms are not open? Director Blank said it's because of vandalism. We try to open some of them during the day. Commissioner Singer asked if any thought has been given to putting up a sign that says no soccer cleats allowed inside the Plymouth Creek Center building. Director Blank said he would discuss this with Rick Busch. STAFF COMMUNICATION The park tour was put on hold. The 5th of August turned out to be difficult for several commissioners. Unless Director Blank comes up with pressing business, the August meeting will probably be cancelled. Director Blank will poll commissioners to come up with a new date for a tour. He discussed beginning a tour at 3:30 in the afternoon and going until about 9 p.m. Several commissioners said that would work. Possible sites to visit include water parks in Eagan and St. Louis Park, and a skate park in Hopkins. Director Blank said the Ferndale open space meeting went very well. They did a good job. The committee of eight met for two hours and laid some groundwork. One of the issues is the three entrances into the park. The next meeting will be on site to discuss those entrances. Once a plan is pulled together, it will be sent to the residents. Then there would be a meeting scheduled with PRAC. This process needs to be done without alienating anyone. Commissioner Singer said the best comment she heard that night was "the fight is over." 9. ADJOURNMENT The meeting adjourned at 8:05 p.m. MASE o •ww September 13, 2000 Mr. Eric Blank City of Plymouth 3400 Plymouth Boulevard Plymouth, MN 55447 Dear Eric: Congratulations on being selected as a MASC/CFL Youth Enrichment grant recipient. The Minnesota Amateur Sports Commission (MASC) recceived and reviewed over 130 grant applications and recommended a total of 68 grant awards. The Department of Children, Families and Learning have reviewed and approved the MASC's recommendations for the grant awards. The City of Plymouth was among those selected to received grant funds in the amount of 100,000 to assist in the development or renovation of soccer fields and athletic facilities for enrichment activities for Minnesota's youth. As a grant recipient, you will be receiving in the mail within the next two weeks: 1. Grant Agreement(s) - official grant form which will be used by recipients for signature and execution. 2. Grant Processing Requirements - a summary of MASC/CFL and the Department of Finance requirements relating to processing of grants. 3. Certificate of Award - official certificate of the MASC/CFL Youth Enrichment grant program which may be presented to your local unit of government. Sincerely, Paul D. Erickson Executive Director MINNESOTA AMATEUR SPORTS COMMISSION 1700 105th Avenue NE • Blaine, Minnesota 55449-4500 • 763-785-5630 • fax 763-785--5699 • too 800-627-3529 toll free 800-500-$766 • e-mail mast@citilink.com - w .masastate.mn.us M Equal Opportunity Employer N/11 i j I c 1-1 " i " al" 11.play Ann 4C pl'.4 MM' C—. BOW, L P—MqmmIrB-R,7,k,1,.1: II MILLENNIUM GARDEN GIFT GUIDE Gifts Gift Amount Waterfall - next to building 50,665 -- 50,000Benches(12) Benches (12) 12,000 Boulder retainin wall 15,000 Labyrinth 15,000 Sculpture alcove with art each) 100,000 Drinking fountain Irrigation system ($10,000 materials only) 120,000 Decorative garden lighting (30 lights) 50,000 Aquatic display of 30,000 Bride over water (2) each) 5,000 Low stone wall for plaques (2) each) 5,000 Pergolas fencing and lawn entry 75,000 Ceremonial and art dispIaydisplayarea 100,000 Exhibit area 50,000 Plants 200,000 Pedestal planters (6) each) 1,000 June 27, 2000 MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING THE HILDE PERFORMANCE CENTER This Memorandum of Understanding is intended to set forth certain non-binding understandings pursuant to which Al and Jayne Hilde (the "Hildes") will make a significant contribution to the Plymouth Civic League ("PCL") for the purpose of constructing a center for the performing arts the "Center") within the City of Plymouth. Prior to making such contribution, the Hildes desire to make certain that the funds contributed are spent in accordance with their wishes. Accordingly, in order to avoid any future misunderstandings, the intent of the parties with respect to this project is as follows: 1. Construction of a Center for the Performing Arts. The Hildes desire to contribute substantial funds to assist in the construction of a center for the performing arts within the City of Plymouth. It is contemplated that the facility would have a stage area large enough to accommodate the Minnesota Orchestra or the Plymouth Community Band, as well as meet other performance needs, including storage, dressing rooms, lighting and sound facilities. The Center would become a venue for various creative human activities such as music, theater and other similar activities all of which would be available to the citizens of Plymouth and the public at large. It is anticipated that the Hildes will have significant input in the architectural design and overall style of the Center. 2. Contribution of Property by the City of Plymouth. The Hildes' contribution for the construction of the Center is contingent upon the necessary land (the "Site") being provided by the City of Plymouth (the "City"). It is currently contemplated that the Site will consist of the land now being used for Music in Plymouth and which is located in the Plymouth Creek Park adjacent to the Plymouth City offices. Additionally, the Site must be in buildable condition and must be free from any environmental or other significant problems that could cause cost overruns. The City shall be responsible for all the necessary sewer, water and other utility hookups to the Site, and building permit and other City fees related to the project. The Hildes will pay for final Site preparation as part of the building of the Center, but do not intend to pay significant site preparation costs in order to make the Site buildable. The City shall own, maintain and operate the Center upon its completion. The City shall grant the PCL priority in scheduling the annual Music In Plymouth event. 3. Participation by the PCL. It is anticipated that the donation by the Hildes will be to the PCL, which is a Minnesota non-profit corporation qualified under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code as a tax-exempt entity. Donations must be received, in amounts sufficient to pay in full contract costs, prior to the PCL entering into any Project contract. The PCL will be the contracting party with respect to the various vendors necessary to complete the Center. The PCL will generally oversee the constructing of the Center. The City, as the owner of the Project, shall designate a representative to oversee the project on its behalf. The PCL will keep the Hildes informed as to the status of the project at times it deems appropriate or as requested by the Hildes. In no event, however, will the status updates be less frequent than every other month through completion of the project. 4. Funding of the Project. The goal is to build a functional, high quality and architecturally pleasing Center. Cost estimates are not available at this time, but the Hildes are prepared to donate within the range of $500,000 to $1,000,000 to the PCL for the purpose of funding the construction of the Center. The final amount to be donated will be determined by the Hildes according to the qualities and features of the planned facility as the project planning progresses through the several "progress points" below. Progress Point 1. Approval of this Memorandum of Understanding. 2. Hiring of Sound and Lighting Consultants. 3. Selection of Construction Management Company. 4. Selection of Architectural Firm. 5. Approval of Architectural Schematic Design. 6. Signing of Construction Contracts. It is anticipated that the Hildes will be informed of, or participate in, the selection of the various significant vendors (i.e., architects, general contractor, etc.) necessary to complete the project. It is also anticipated that the Hildes will have significant input in the selection of the final design of the Center. Naming of the Center. Upon completion, the center will be named "The Hilde Performance Center." In addition, one or more commemorative plaques will be displayed at the Center honoring many who served the City during Mayor Hilde's tenure, and those involved in the Center project, including the City Council and the PCL Board of Directors. Further Agreement. This Memorandum of Understanding shall serve as the framework to assist the parties in undertaking this project expeditiously. The parties understand that additional matters of interest to the City will need to be addressed prior to any site work or construction approvals by the City. If the foregoing correctly states your understanding of our mutual intention with respect to the building of the Center, please execute the enclosed copy of this Memorandum. CITY OF PLYMOUTH By: Al Hilde, Jr. Its: D fiy. DATE: September 11, 2000 TO: PRAC FROM: Eric J. Blank, Director, Parks and Recreation SUBJECT: Open Space Attached for your review is the Ferndale North Open Space management recommendations made by the citizens committee that worked this past summer. The committee was made up of four people from the Ferndale North area; Marlin Sjaarda, an original member of the Open Space Task Force; Ellie Singer from PRAC; Mark Peterson, Superintendent of Parks; and me. The committee met three times, including one visit to walk the site. These recommendations were a complete consensus by all eight members of the committee. A copy of the recommendations and the attached letter were sent to all residents in the Ferndale North area. They were invited to attend this meeting or to send letters. To date, I have received one letter attached) from Steve and Mary Belden. Overall, I think the committee did a good job, and it appears from the feedback we are getting that the community has accepted our recommendations. Unless there is some new testimony presented at the meeting on Thursday evening, staff is recommending that the Ferndale North recommendations be endorsed and forwarded to the City Council for their review and adoption. EB/np August 25, 2000 Dear Ferndale North Resident: I'd like to bring you up to date on the current status of the City owned property located within the Ferndale North plat. On August 8, the City Council took official action to adopt the 20 year comprehensive plan for the City of Plymouth. This action wrapped up three years of work on this plan by the City Council, Planning Commission, Park Commission, citizens and staff. The property located within Ferndale North is now officially classified as public open space. This is City property that will be managed by the City in its natural state. This is consistent with the Council's previous actions on this property. Many of you are aware that for the last few weeks a committee made up of staff, community residents and four members of the Ferndale North area have been looking specifically at the long term management of this property. The four Ferndale North individuals are: Eric Berg, Anne Johnson, Diane Kroupa, and Mark Poppitz. I would like to thank them for their work on developing the management plan for this site. Attached to this letter is an outline of the recommendations that the committee is making to the Park and Recreation Advisory Commission and the City Council. The Park and Recreation Advisory Commission will begin reviewing this recommendation at their September 14th meeting, at 7 p.m., in the Council Chambers. If you would like to make comments on this proposal, you may do so by sending a letter to me, or by attending that meeting. After the Commission has completed their review, and made a recommendation, the management plan for the Ferndale North open space property will be forwarded to the Council for final adoption. If you have any questions about the process we're following, or the recommendations themselves, please do not hesitate to call me at 509-5201. Sincerely, EAtcz Eric J. Blank, Director Parks and Recreation EB/np Cc: City Manager PRAC MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATIONS FOR FERNDALE NORTH OPEN SPACE I. General Overall Maintenance Of Site Although this area is open space, it will require some level of ongoing management every year. This means that the City, over time, will manage some of the foliage such as sumac and buckthorn. Certain areas of the sumac, for instance, may be cut back, but allowed to regrow in a healthier and more vibrant stand. Our management strategy will be the eventual elimination of buckthorn. This is consistent with our management practices on all other City property. Trees that are dying or dead, and that could be a hazard to adjoining property, or someone visiting the site, will probably be removed. If they are not a hazard, they will be allowed to remain on the site. If you observe a dangerous situation within the property, please call it to our attention, and we will review the situation and take appropriate action. II. Public Access to the Property A. South Entrance — 4th Avenue The right of way will be cleared for a distance of approximately 12 feet behind the curb. Most of the sumac in the central area will be removed at this time but allowed to grow back, after a narrow wood chip trail has been developed from the road, approximately 200 feet into the site. There will be a small open space entrance sign at this location indicating this is public land owned by the City. B. Easterly Entrance off Brockton Lane Near 5th Avenue There will be an open space entrance sign near the road right of way indicating where the walkway should begin. There will be a second sign at the beginning of the tree line behind• the houses. Beginning where the trees are, the City will clear and provide an approximately four foot wide wood chip path up the hill to where the trees open up and the weeds begin. The wood chip path will end at this location. C. Northwest Entrance off 9th Avenue There will be an open space entrance sign near the road right of way and a second sign where the woods begin behind the houses. There will be a short wood chip trail up through the trees to prevent further erosion throughout the tree area. The wood chips will end where the trail enters the tall grass leading down into the site. D. The Central Portion of the Site There will be no improved paths throughout the central area of the property. There will be no cutting or mowing of the grass throughout the overall property. IV. Public Use of Site The following rules are proposed to be in effect for the property. A. Visitors are welcome to enter the site from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., like other public properties. B. There shall be no open fires or cooking on site. Picnic basket meals are OK. C. Any trash carried into the site should be carried out. D. Dogs and cats will be handled under the normal City ordinances. This means you must keep dogs on a leash and clean up any messes. E. Because this is open space property, if you have a special need to use the site, please call the City and check prior to scheduling such an activity. Ilz Steve and Mary Belden 18725 - 4th PI. N. Plymouth, MN 55447 Dear Mr. Blank, Thank you. We were very worried about how you would be able to involve residents of our neighborhood in the development of a long-range plan for the open space without re- awakening the furor which made last summer such torture. Although we have been away most of this summer, and may be unaware of adverse reactions to your process, it appears that you have succeeded. We are also very pleased with the result of the committee's work, particularly the minimal changes, prohibition of fires and the city's approval required for any "events" to be held in the space. The whole proposal seems well -reasoned and in line with the wishes of the City Council. We have three small recommendations to make with regard to the text of the plan, which we hope you will consider, and forward as appropriate. One is simply to specifically include cats in the text about leashes along with dogs, reflecting the City's ordinance prohibiting unleashed cats at large, several of which continue to roam our neighborhood. The second is to address the issue of vandalism, as occurred this summer when someone liberally applied herbicide to the entrance area across from Fifth Avenue. Perhaps you have chosen to address this incident in another way, but it seems prudent to include in the plan the fact that any such destruction of city property is a prosecutable offense. The third is to ask you to re-evaluate the need for 200 feet of wood chip pathway leading into the space from Fourth Avenue. It seems to us that 200 feet is unnecessarily long, leading well beyond the point where the space becomes readily navigable without a pathway, which seems to be the rule of thumb used to determine the length of the other entrance paths. We would suggest that something between 50 and 100 feet would be sufficient. Our thanks to you and to the committee for the fine work you've done. We will be out of town between the 8th and the 23rd of September, so will be unable to attend the Park and Rec. Advisory Commission meeting on the 14th. We sincerely hope that the meeting will be without significant contention regarding the plan, which we support. If you deem it appropriate, this letter may be forwarded to the Commission as our input to this process. Thanks again. Sincerely, / 4e, ja lk ll'iIN- wx - IV, Ir 31 4t 14 40 OUTLJOT A Sb Fig4lJOMWWWW 95' o OUTLJOT A Sb Fig4lJOMWWWW 95' DATE: September 11, 2000 TO: PRAC FROM: Eric J. Blank, Director, Parks and Recreation S5 SUBJECT: 2001-2005 Parks CIP Attached to this memo is a list of possible projects that could be considered within the five year planning horizon. Some of the projects, such as the payment on the portable stage and transfer to park replacement fund, are required payments. Some of the other projects, such as Greenwood youth sports, the Millennium Garden, and bleacher replacements, are projects that were anticipated to be done in 2000 and now are rolling over to 2001. Rather than writing a long detailed report, my plan is to briefly outline each of these proposed projects at the PRAC meeting on Thursday evening. If, based on your observation of the park system, you feel there are other additional projects that need to be considered, now would be the time to add them to the list. All of the items on this list have either been talked about by the City Council, by park staff, or we received a call or letter from a citizen. EB/np 2001-2005 Parks CIP Open Space Greenwood School Youth Sports Millennium Garden Art in the Park West Medicine Lake bathrooms/pavilion Neighborhood park land acquisition Bleacher replacement (second half) Special landscaping New Trails Old Rockford Road (west of Vicksburg) 36th Avenue - County Road 9 to Vicksburg Revere Lane south of 10th Avenue Lancaster Lane - 36th Avenue to Pilgrim Lane Hilde Performance Center - sewer and water, building permit, misc. Trail repair and overlay Portable stage (4th of 5 payments) Playground replacement Ridgemount Playfield shelter building Transfer to park replacement Environmental park playground and trail Skate park Dog park Mud Lake park Zachary Playfield building - partnership with Armstrong Youth Baseball Land acquisition for 10th playfield Spray water playground Replace lights at Parkers Lake Park Picnic shelter at Zachary Park Parking lot repairs - Parkers Lake - others Lighting - replace and upgrade fields at Zachary Playfield Tennis courts at Plymouth Creek Center Additional parking Ice Center East Beach boat dock Scoreboards - Elm Creek Playfield (3) School playgrounds - Kimberly Lane West Medicine Lake Park - trail and parking lot lights Parkers .Lake boat dock Ice Center third sheet Plymouth Creek Center - finish lower level Picnic shelter at Plymouth Creek Playfield Picnic shelter at Shenandoah park Picnic shelter at Elm Creek Playfield Replace deck at East Beach 2001 possible projects E 1995 Spotlight On Brooklyn Park Historical Farm By Jan Ficken, Assistant Director, Brooklyn Park Recreation & Parks Department The Brooklyn Park Historical Farm is located in northern Brook- lyn Park along 101st Avenue. The farm is a ten -acre living record of farm life at the turn -of -the -century owned and operated by the City of Brooklyn Park Recreation and Parks Department. Today the home sits amidst urban sprawl and the aggres- sive development of what remaining land there is surrounding it. The Historical Farm is a favorite stop for bikers along the North Hennepin Trail Corridor.. The farm consists of a number of buildings, farmhouse, barn, storage buildings, chicken coop, windmill, and well house, period farm equip- ment, and crop land. The barn and barnyard harbor farm animals. Costumed interpreters carry out the tasks of farming and related house- hold activities using tools and techniques of the late 1800s and early 1900s. The hope is to convey, as no textbook can, the sights, smells and sounds that were part of the daily lives of many of America's citizens during this period in our nations's history. Thousands of school children from around the state visit annually nroOklyn Park Historical Farm: house and grounds (above) and barn (below). to learn old-fashioned games, cooking on a wood stove, farm chores, and caring for animals. Visitors can watch milking, cider making, and holiday preparations for a Norwegian Christmas. Special handcrafting classes and art classes take place on site, as well as special living history events, open houses, and children's day camps. The farmer of 1900 lived by the seasons; his life, chores and pas- times regulated by the calendar year. The programs at the Historical Farm revolve around this timeless change of events. Homesteaded over a century ago, the farm was owned by the Eidem family for 82 years. The fall is a busy time at the farm as 300 volunteers, called Friends of the Farm, help recreate events on the farm depicting life as it was at the turn -of -the -century. Brooklyn Park Historical Farm continued on page 1 I Page 12 Keeping Up Jd_1A.g.St 1995 Brooklyn Park Historical Farm continued from page 1 I The most popular event is the Old Fashioned Farm Christmas with Norwegian traditions complete with a visit from St. Nick. Over 1500 visitors attend this two day event held the first weekend in December. The annual operating budget for the historical farm is $42,000. Included in this is approximately 27,000 in salaries for part-time site manager and tour guides, and 15,000 in operating supplies, recreation supplies, and mainte- nance costs for building upkeep and animals. The department brings in ap- proximately $15,000 in revenue through registered programs, special events admissions, school tour groups, special handicraft classes, rentals, and day camps. Admission rates are $2.50 adults/$2 children for summer open houses and special living history events September through December. Tour groups are 2 per person for 15 or more with additional costs if group requests more hands-on activities or beverage served. Small groups can also rent the site for special occasions, such Visitors gather around period -dressed volunteers making cidar. as bridal showers, family reunions, or weddings. Each event is individu- ally planned by the site manager and participant. In the summer months, several camps are con- ducted on site: Old McDonald's Farm Camp, and Turn -of -the - Century Pioneer Camp which includes a sleep -over at the farm and morning chores. In October the annual Great Pumpkin Hunt, the LE The Norwegian Christmas celebration finds St. Nicholas chatting with visitors. Haunted Historical Farm, and Preparing the Thanksgiving Goose are popular events with families. The Family Art at the Farm series creates a lot of enthusiasm for visiting the site in the summer months. Tour guides also help plan children's birthday parties and tea parties for adult groups. Neighbor- hood and church groups utilize the farm site for meetings or social events. The city employee club and senior citizens club have their annual summer cookout at the farm also. The Brooklyn Park Historical Farm is located north on Zane Avenue to 4345 101st Avenue. Tours can be arranged from May 1 - October 31 for groups of 15 or more people. Summer Open House hours are Sundays and Wednesdays from 12-4 PM. The site is open for special living history events on the third Sunday in September, October, November, and first weekend in December. Children's recreation programs and family art programs are listed in the seasonal recreation brochures. For additional informa- tion call Kay Grotenhuis at 484- 9668 or Jan Ficken, 493-8340. 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Medicine Lake Dr. Plymouth, MN 55441 Dear Eric and Brady: I received your letter regarding a skate park in Plymouth. I am happy to report that soon the Park Commission and City Council will consider if we should build a skate park th4t would be open the summer of 2001. This facility would be located in the parking lot immediately east of the Plymouth Ice Center. At this time, I am anticipating that it would be a very inexpensive, or possibly free, skating facility. Further news about the possible development of this facility will be in the "Plymouth News" and the City's recreation brochure, "Plymouth Leisure Times," in future months. Thank you for taking the time to write. I am forwarding your letter to both the Park and Recreation Advisory Commission and the City Council, so that they are aware of your interest in this subject. Sincerely, L &,vf Eric J. Blank, Director Parks and Recreation EB/np Cc: City Council ark and Recreation Advisory Commission PLYMOUTH ABeautifu[PlaceToLive 3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD • PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447-1482 • TELEPHONE (612) 509-5000 www.d.plymouth.mn.us August 23. 2000 City of Plymouth 3400 Plymouth Blvd. Plymouth. MN 55447-1482 Dear City of Plymouth. My name is Eric Lee and I am 11 vears old. My friend Brady Wolff and I are anxious for a skate park in the Plymouth area. We would run fund raisers for the makina of the Park and find volunteers and other workers to build this park. We can't do this alone. We need the City of Plymouth's help. Brady and I need your help findina the property and the facilities for the before mentioned park. The facilities would include a medium sized buildina with men and women rest rooms to accommodate customers. Please consider our idea and please write us back as soon as you can. Thank you for your time. Sincerely. - 4erg _ Eric Lee and Brady Wolff 1105 W. Medicine Lake Dr. i Plymouth. MN 55441 September 6, 2000 Blake Vettel 715 Alvarado Lane Plymouth, MN 55447 Dear Blake: aw OF PUMOUTR I received your letter regarding a skate park in Plymouth. I am happy to report that soon the Park Commission and City Council will consider if we should build a skate park that would be open the summer of 2001. This facility would be located in the parking lot immediately east of the Plymouth Ice Center. At this time, I am anticipating that it would be a very inexpensive, or possibly free, skating facility. Further news about the possible development of this facility will be in the "Plymouth News" and the City's recreation brochure, "Plymouth Leisure Times," in future months. Thank you for taking the time to write. I am forwarding your letter to both the Park and Recreation Advisory Commission and the City Council, so that they are aware of your interest in this subject. Sincerely, 5, 6hnoe- Eric J. Blank, Director Parks and Recreation EB/np Cc: City Council LPark and Recreation Advisory Commission PLYMOUTH ABeautifulPlaceToLive 3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD • PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447-1482 • TELEPHONE (612) 509-5000 mom www 6plymouth.mmus Blake Vettel 715 Alvarado Lane Plymouth, MN 55447 763)476-1870 September 4, 2000 Mr. Eric I Blank Director Plymouth Parks and Recreation Board 3400 Plymouth Blvd. Plymouth, MN 55447 Dear Mr. Blank: My name is Blake Vettel. I am a fourth grader at Gleason Lake EIementary School. I like to skateboard and rollerblade. I am writing you this letter because I think it would be a good idea to build a community skate park for skateboarding and rollerblading in Plymouth. We need a skate park in Plymouth so there is a safe place for kids like me to skateboard. I would like to know what I can do to help the city get a skate park like Maple Grove, Hopkins, Chaska and Brooklyn Park. I have included some information on building skate parks that I found on the Internet. I hope to hear from you soon. Thank you. Sincerely, fakee VG Cc: Mayor Joy Tierney Riders Arena: Do You Need A Skate Park? http:tlwww.trueride.com/do_yotk--mcCa_skate_park.htm It seems to us that most towns and cities have a need for a skate park. Many cities have banned skating from the best areas in town but forgot to give the skaters a place to ride. -- Skate parks are something the city should provide for it's `'% citizens: Most cities have a park and recreate department that would be responsible for providing a skate park and that -whom you should contact wHere are . a few suggestions to get a professionally built TrueRide skate park in your town. VQi"Ao / 0 Form an organization. Nothing gets the attention of F city officials more than a large group of its citizens. Inclu ev onl'e; sMa ens, mothsanft dads, cops, retailers, city councilors, anyone who thinks you have a good cause and can help to get you a park. Petitions. Have a petition drawn up and get as many signatures as you can. Present it to your city and ask them to build you a skate park. Prove there is a need. You have to make the city realize a skate park needs to be built. Once you do this they will allocate the funds to have the park built. Find and suggest a good location. Many towns have old tennis courts that are not in use that would work great for a skate park. Be patient. The whole process could take up to a year or more. Be persistent. Don't take no for an answer, but keep a smile on your face and don't get into an arguing match. Suggest they phase in new pieces every year. If the city has little money to spend, maybe you start with just a Mini Ramp or a small street course until you have a full park. Once they see how popular a skate park is and that it works they will see it your way. Be informed. Give examples of other cities that have built parks. Be ready to answer all their questions. They'll need proof that a skate park is a good idea. Know about insurance, injury statistics the Center for Disease Control will have this information), equipment costs, and how the park should be operated in your town. Once the city agrees to build you a park, ask them to contact TrucRide; because you want a high quality, long lasting, solid skate park that is true to ride! We will help to design a park that will work within their budget. TrueRide will build the equipment and deliver and install the skate park correctly. Insist your organization be involved in deciding which equipment to buy from TrueRide. This is your park and you should decide what ramps the park will consist of. Very important, once you have your park, respect the Hiles of the park. Having your city build you a park I of 2 9/4/00 9:34 AM Riders Arena: Do You Need A Skate Park? hap://www.trueride.corn/doyou_need_a_skate park.hun is a privilege and you should appreciate that you have one. Take care to thank those who made it happen. Good Luck! 2 of 2 9/4/00 9:34 AM Eric Blank Park & Recreation Director 3400 Plymouth Blvd. Plymouth, MN 55447 September 11, 2000 Dear Mr. Blank: Enclosed are multiple letters from homeowners bordered by Old Rockford Road. These letters are all in support of the city building a walldng/biking/rollerblading trail along the road. As was discussed at the August 22°d council meeting, my neighbors and I feel strongly that a path is needed on the road to so that we may safely access the other trails of Plymouth. Based on the city council's recommendations, we have gathered the enclosed letters and will be attending the September 14`s planning meeting to express our concerns. I have sent copies of the multiple letters addressed to you regarding the road and trail to the mayor and the city councilmembers. I have included a copy of that letter for you as well. Please feel free to contact me with any questions or comments regarding my concerns. I look forward to seeing you on the le. Thank you for your support Sincerely, Dana Cossette Holly Creek 4340 Fountain Ln N Plymouth, MN 55446 763-551-9850 cdana@uswest.net Eric Blank Plymouth Park & Recreation Director 3400 Plymouth Blvd. Plymouth, MN 55447 September 8, 2000 Dear Mr. Blank: As interim President of the Cavan Meadows Homeowner's Association, I am writing you on behalf of the 7 homeowners within our neighborhood. Our neighborhood backs to Old Rockford, southwest of the intersection with Dunkirk Lane. We are strongly requesting that the city create a path on Old Rockford Road that would provide safe access for the residents of Plymouth to the other trails and parks, neighborhoods, and schools within the city. We are requesting the path for several reasons: 1) As the development along the road has increased, more people are walking/rollerblading/biking along the road. With more development, the road has become even busier, 2) There is not a sufficient shoulder to prevent pedestrians from using the road surface to get to nearby sheets, especially for those on bikes and rollerblades. 3) There are two elementary schools and a high school bordered by the road — students are frequently on the road for one reason or another. 4) Many of the new neighborhoods in Northwest Plymouth are surrounded by Old Rockford Road. An adjacent neighborhood is completely enclosed by it. Adding a hail allows residents to safely access other areas of the city without using their cars. 5) Old Rockford Road is a main road through Northwest Plymouth and people will unfortunately be on it whether it is safe or not— let's do something before someone gets hurt. Due to the safety issues involved as pedestrians and bikers share this posted 50mph road with vehicles, it seems imperative to add a hail to this city road as soon as possible. Please help us be safe and include this project in your current Capital Improvement Budget to be presented to the City Council. If our neighborhood can further help get a path put in on Old Rockford Road, please call me. Thank you for your support. Sincerely, L- aL y Cnegg Hess Cavan Meadows Homeowners Association 16720 43`a Ave N. Plymouth, MN 55446 763-509-0981 gfhess@uswest.net Mr. Eric Blank Director, Plymouth Park & Recreation 3400 Plymouth Blvd. Plymouth, MN 55447 Glenn & Jane McConnach 3880 Comstock Lane No. Plymouth, MN 55446 September 7, 2009 Dear Mr. Blank: it has been called to our attention that the City of Plymouth Park and Recreation Board is preparing its budget recommendations for Capital Improvement spending. We are writing to you today, with the support of our neighborhood, strongly requesting that you include a path along Old Rockford Road is this years budget. The development in this area is exploding and having a path along Old Rockford road is imperative. There is a limited amount of parking at Kimberly Lane School. At school events we have to park along Old Rocirford Road. This is a dangerous situation for everybody. The speed limit on the road is so high and when cars are parked along both sides it is very narrow. I have personally walked with my young children on the side of Old Rockford Road and felt anxious about it the entire time. When you have a stroller you can not be in the gravel and this puts lives in danger. The fact that there are Plymouth residents living along Old Rockford Road that have no other access then Old Rockford Road to the cites wonderful trail system, and due to the fact that Wayzata High School, Kimberly Lane Elementary School and Plymouth Creek Elementary all depend on Old Rockford Road as a main artery into their parking lots, we believe the Plymouth Park and Rec Board should make this a top priority for this years budget improvement recommendations. We know that you value the safety of all Plymouth residents and I am sure all of the parents at Kimberly Lane Elementary School would also agree that Old Rockford Road is not safe without a path. Please support us on this issue. We live in `Nestbranch Estates and we would also benefit from the path for our walking and running, biking and recreating. This would make the path around our development safe and accessible. We believe we speak for our entire development when we request that you approve a path along Old Rockford Road this year. Thank you for your support Sincerely: t&J,ec&jca,e-k Glemi McConnach 763-514-0028 Eric Blank Plymouth Park & Recreation Director 3400 Plymouth Blvd. Plymouth, MN 55447 September 11, 2000 Dear Mr. Blank: I am a resident of the Westbranch Crossings neighborhood that is bordered by Old Rockford Road and Dunkirk Avenue. We strongly support the development of a path along Old Rockford Road for pedestrians, bikers, rollerbladers, etc. We feel this is extremely necessary for the residents of Plymouth to have safe access to the other trails and parks, neighborhoods, and schools within the city. Our development, especially, has a very high number of children, and many parents in this neighborhood have voiced concerns regarding safety issues and living so close to a busy road. The development of Northwest Plymouth continues to expand and having a path along Old Rockford Road is imperative with this development. There are hundreds of houses that now'butt up against the road. Kimberly Lane Elementary, Plymouth Creek Elementary and Wayzata High School all have this road as a major entrance to their parking lots. With the speed of 50mph on the road, the narrow gravel shoulders, and the large volume of traffic mixed with pedestrians, it seems critical to have apath on Old Rockford Road as soon as possible.' Please support us on this issue and make a path on Old Rockford Road a top priority for this year's Capital Improvement Budget. This would make our development safe and accessible. 1 believe 1 speak for our entire development when requesting approval for a path along Old Rockford Road. Please feel free to contact me with any questions or comments regarding my concerns. Thank you for your support. Sincerely, Ju ie Nelson 4200 Black Oaks Lane North Plymouth, MN 55446-2683 763-509-9079 Eric Blank Plymouth Park & Recreation Director 3400 Plymouth Blvd. Plymouth, MN 55447 August 21, 2000 Dear Mr. Blank: I am President of the Holly Creek, Div I, Homeowner's Association, and I am writing you on behalf of the 14 homeowners within our neighborhood. Our neighborhood is bordered, and in fact, enclosed by Old Rockford Road. We are strongly requesting that the city create a path on Old Rockford Road that would provide safe access for the residents of Plymouth to the other trails and parks, neighborhoods, and schools within the city. We are requesting the path for several reasons: 1) As the development along the road has increased, more people are walking/rollerblading/biking along the road. With more development, the road has become even busier. 2) There are two elementary schools and a high school bordered by the road — students are frequently on the road for one reason or another. 3) Many of the new neighborhoods in Northwest Plymouth are surrounded by Old Rockford Road. Our neighborhood is completely enclosed by it. Adding a trail allows residents to safely access other areas of the city without using their cars. 4) Old Rockford Road is a main road through Northwest Plymouth and people will unfortunately be on it whether it is safe or not — let's do something before someone gets hurt. One of Plymouth's goals is to "develop and maintain a trail system throughout the community to provide recreational opportunities and encourage non -motorized transportation". One of the vision statements is Protect and enhance convenience and mobility" including that "the trail system and public transportation provide usable alternative modes of transportation". Adding a trail to Old Rockford Road would support many of Plymouth's goals. We understand that the city must prioritize its capital improvements within the entire city of Plymouth. We also have been told that Old Rochford Road will probably need to have street improvements in a few years. However, due to the safety issues involved as pedestrians and bikers use the narrow shoulder of a 50mph road, it seems imperative to add a trail to this city road as soon as possible. Please help us be safe and include this project in your current Capital Improvement Budget to be presented to the City Council. If our neighborhood can limber help get a path put in on Old Rockford Road, please call me Thank you for your support. Sincere A dy Cossette President, Holly Creek Homeowners Association, Div I 4340 Fountain bane N Plymouth, MN 55446 odana@uswest.net Eric Blank Plymouth Park & Recreation Director 3400 Plymouth Blvd. Plymouth, MN 55447 September 11, 2000 Dear Eric: I am President of the Golfview Homeowner's Association, and I'm writing you on behalf of the 52 homeowners within our neighborhood, Our neighborhood is bordered on the south side by Old Rockford Road. We are strongly requesting that the city create a path on Old Rockford Road that would provide safe access for the residents to the other trails and parks, neighborhoods, and schools within the city. We are requesting the path for several reasons: 1) As the development along the road has increased, more people are walking/rollerblading/biking along the road. With more development, the road has become even busier. 2) There are two elementary schools and a high school bordered by the road — students are frequently on the road for one reason or another. 3) This path would connect to the proposed walking path on Holly Lane between Old Rockford Road and Hollydale Golf Course which is currently in the planning stage. Adding a trail allows residents to safely access other areas of the city without using their cars. 4) Old Rockford Road is a main mad through Northwest Plymouth and people will unfortunately be on it whether it is safe or not — let's do something before someone gets hurt. I personally use the Old Rockford Road for jogging as it is the only way that I canjoin the path on Vicksburg Lane. Several areas are very narrow and are risky for cars to pass. I'm planning on attending the Sept 14th Park & Rec meeting to support our position. Sincerely, David S. Klis President, Golfview Homeowners Association 16710 45h Ave No Plymouth, MN 55446 daveklis@hotmail.com Mayor Joy Tierney 3400 Plymouth Blvd. Plymouth, MN 55447 Cc: Eric Blank, Park & Recreation Director; Fred Moore, Director of Engineering; Plymouth City Councihuembers September 11, 2000 Dear Mayor Tierney I am writing you on behalf of the hundreds of homes that border along Old Rockford Road. Over the past years, the development along Old Rockford Road has exploded, and continues to grow. The road is narrow and windy, with a small gravel shoulder and cars traveling at the posted speed of 50mph, or more. We feel that it is imperative that a trail be placed along Old Rockford Road so that pedestrians, bikers, rollerbladers, etc. may safely use the road to access other areas of Plymouth. A few of my neighbors and I were present at the August 22°' council meeting. We expressed concern with the most recent approval of development on Peony and Highway 55 and the lack of a pedestrian trail. You recommended to us that we gather support from others in the area and attend the Park & Rec planning meeting on September le. Every person I have talked with supports a trail on the road. One person recounted a story that a neighbor who walks along the road with her two children was stopped twice by a police officer and told that it was not safe to walk along the road. We have gathered letters of support from homeowners that border the road. Several are included with this tetter, and some have been sent to Eric Blank directly. The intent of these letters is to show the Park and Rec that a trail on Old Rockford Road is definitely a concern of homeowners in this area and very much supported. We know that safety is a primary concern of the city of Plymouth. A few of my neighbors and I will be present at the September le Park and Recreation planning meeting to express our concerns. We are asking that a trail along Old Rockford Road be part of this year's Capital Improvement Budget. We hope that we can obtain the support of you as mayor, the city councihnembers and of course, the Park & Recreation Department. We strongly feel we must do something with this road before someone is seriously hurt. Thank you for your support. 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