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2015-03-10 Parks and Rec Comm Agenda Packet CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS DAKOTA COUNTY, MINNESOTA AGENDA PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION Tuesday March 10, 2015 - 6:30P.M. City Council Chambers 1.Roll Call 2.Approval of Agenda 3.Approval of the February 10, 2015 Minutes 4.Rogers Lake Water Quality Report Presentation 5.River to River Greenway Draft Master Plan 6.Dog Park Update 7.Announcements 8.Commission Comments 9.Adjourn Auxiliary aids for persons with disabilities are available at least 120 hours in advance. If a notice of less than 120 hours is received, the City of Mendota Heights will make every attempt to provide the aids. This may not, however, be possible on short notice. Please contact City Administration at 651-452-1850. Meeti ngs can be viewed anytime on-demand at: www.mendota-heights.com . CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTSDAKOTA COUNTY, MINNESOTA PARKSAND RECREATION MEETING February 10, 2015 The February meeting of the Mendota Heights Parks and Recreation Commission was held on Tuesday, February 10, 2015 at Mendota Heights City Hall, 1101 Victoria Curve. Chair Hinderscheid called to order the parks and recreation commission meeting at 6:30 p.m. Thefollowing commissioners were present: ChairHinderscheid, Commissioners: IraKip, Stephanie Levine, Jack Evans, Michael Toth, David MillerandJoel Paper and Student Representatives Joe Quehl and Rachel Farber. Staff present: Recreation Program Coordinator SloanWallgren. Approval of Agenda COMMISSIONER LEVINE MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE THE AGENDA; COMMISSIONEREVANS SECONDED THE MOTION. AYES 6: NAYS 0 Approval of Minutes of January 13, 2015 COMMISSIONER LEVINE MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE THE MINUTES; COMMISSIONEREVANSSECONDED THE MOTION. AYES 6: NAYS 0 2015 Student Representative Mr. Wallgren introduced the two new student representatives of the parks and recreation commission. Joe Quehl is a junior at Henry Sibley High School and is active in Boy Scouts, athletics and school groups. Rachel Farber is a sophomore at Henry Sibley High School, she is active in school groups, church groups and a member of the tennis team. The commissioners all welcomed the student representatives and were excited to have them onboard. Election of Officers Mr. Wallgren informed the commission that each February the commission needs to elect a Chair and Vice Chair. COMMISSIONER MILLER MADE A MOTION TO REELECT PAT HINDERSCHEID AS THE PARKS AND RECREATION CHAIR. COMMISSIONER EVANS SECENDED THE MOTION. AYES 6: NAYS 0 COMMISSIONER TOTH MAD A MOTION TO REELECT JOEL PAPER AS THE VICE CHAIR OF THE PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION. COMMISSIONER EVANS SECONDED TH MOTION. AYES 6: NAYS 0 MH Parksand RecreationCommission 2-10-2015 Page 1 2014 Parks & Recreation Report Mr. Wallgren provide the commission with an annual report. The report included information about our parks system, recreation activities, new programs and projects that took place in 2014 and a financial summary of the parks and recreation year end activity. December/January Ice Rink Report Mr. Wallgren presented the commission with a report detailing the usage of Wentworth Park, Marie Park and Friendly Hills Park for the months of December and January. Mr. Wallgren said that even though the warming houses were only open 4 days in December, attendance was up due to the fact that the Sibley Area Hockey Association was using the ice and promoting pick up hockey on weeknights at the rinks. Commissioner Toth asked how long we would keep the rinks open. Mr. Wallgren replied that we would keep them open as long as weather permits. All of the commissionerswere very happy to see that he rink are being used. Ivy Hills Tennis Courts Mr. Wallgren updated the commission on the Ivy Hills Tennis Courts project. Mr. Wallgren has received two bids to perform the work to the tennis courts at Ivy Hills. Mr. Wallgren presented examples of the color combination that would be used on the tennis courts. Marie Park Mr. Wallgren informed the commission now that the hockey rink at Marie Park is paved staff could offer additional activities on the space. The rink could be used in the summer months to play roller hockey, basketball or pickleball. Staff provided the commission with a diagram of how six pickleball courts could be placed inside the hockey rink. Commissioner Paper asked about the possibility of offering both pickleball and basketball in the space. Mr. Wallgren said that he would provide an example for offering both acticities. Commission Toth encouraged staff and the commission to wait and see of the surface looks and performs after the winter. City Council Workshop Update Mr. Wallgren updated the commission on recreation topics that were discussed during the recent City Council Workshop. Mr. Wallgren said that he has been given direction from the council to continue talks with St. Paul about the dog park that will be built at Lilydale Regional Park. The council has also directed staff to continue working on plans for a dog park at the Old Sibley Highway site. Staff will report back to the council with updates on both issues. The council also addressed the issue of funding the Special Parks Fund. The council identified a source of potential funds for the Special Parks Fund for the future. MH Parksand RecreationCommission 2-10-2015 Page 2 Announcements Mr. Wallgren announced that registration for summer programs would begin March 17, 2015. Commissioner Paper reminded everyone that the Mendota Heights Athletic Association is currently taking registration for baseball, softball and lacrosse. Commission Comments Commissioner Levine welcomed Joe and Rachel to the commission and congratulated Pat and Joel on their positions. Commissioner Paper thanked staff for the Annual Report, he thought it was great information. He also welcomed Joel and Rachel to the commission. Commissioner Paper also thanked the park maintenance staff for their work on the hockey rinks, he said they are in great shape and lots of people are using them. Commissioner Kipp though it was a good informational meeting. Commissioner Kipp wanted to make sure that the commission is not second guessing the decisions of the city council. Commissioner Toth welcomed Rachel and Joe to the commission, and encouraged them to embrace their new role and have fun with it. Commissioner Miller thought it was a good discussion and welcomed Joe and Rachel to their new positions. Commissioner Evans welcomed Joe and Rachel, he also congratulated Pat and Joel on their reappointment. Commissioner Evans was glad to see all of the kids using the rinks at Wentworth Park in recent days. Chair Hinderscheid thanked the commissioner for reelecting him chair. He welcomed Joe and Rachel to the commission and thanked all the groups that helped and volunteered time in our parks during the past year. Chair Hinderscheid also was glad to see that over 10,000 round were played at the Par 3 in 2014. COMMISSIONER PAPER MADE A MOTION TO ADJOUN THE MEETING; COMMISSIONERTOTH SECONDED THE MOTION. Ayes 7: Nays 0 The meeting adjourned at8:15 p.m. Respectfully Submitted by Sloan Wallgren MH Parksand RecreationCommission 2-10-2015 Page 3 DATE: March 10, 2015 TO: Mayor, City Council and City Administrator FROM: Nolan Wall,AICP Planner SUBJECT: River to River Greenway Master Plan BACKGROUND Staff, on behalf of Dakota Countyand the project consultant, will be presenting information on the River to River Greenway Master Plan process. Formerly known as the NURT(North Urban Regional Trail), the 8-mile regional trail utilizes existing and newly-constructed trail segments through Lilydale, Mendota Heights, West St. Paul, and South St. Paul to connect important regional destinations. The Master Plan will be a long-term policy guide forimprovements, acquisitions, management, and operations and is being funded through the Statewide Health Improvement Program (SHIP). Staff participatedin the process of developing the plan as part of a technical advisory group. Assegments of the Greenway are improved as designated within the Master Plan, it is intended for Dakota County to assume maintenance responsibility to the entire facility, which will traverse Mendota Heights from Lilydale Road, south through Valley Park, east along Highway 110, north along Warrior Drive and east along Marie Avenue. The timeframe for the assumption of maintenance responsibility will depend upon timing of any projects deemed necessary as part of the Master Plan. Attached is an Executive Summary of the DRAFT Master Plan for discussion at the meeting. If the Commission has any comments, they will be passed alongto the project consultant and Dakota County. The entire DRAFT Plan is available for review at: http://www.hkgi.com/projects/dakota/river_to_river_greenway.php BUDGET IMPACT No impacts to the budget are anticipated at this time. RECOMMENDATION No Commission action needed. This presentation is for informational purposes only. River to River Greenway MASTER PLAN Executive Summary DRAFT - FEBRUARY 2015 FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT WWW.HKGI.COM/PROJECTS/DAKOTA INTRODUCTION The River to River Greenway Master Plan portrays a vision to establish a River greenway from the Big Rivers Regional to River Trailhead along the Mississippi River Greenway in Lilydale to Kaposia Landing along the Mississippi River in South St. Paul. The River to River Greenway is an enhanced corridor that follows the North Urban Regional Trail (NURT) in northern Dakota County. The greenway vision and planning process is outlined in Dakota County Parks, Lakes, Trails and Greenways Vision 2030 and TheDakota County Greenway Collaborative Guidebook. water quality, habitat enhancement, recreation, and non-motorized transportation. The River to River Greenway travels 8 miles through Mendota Heights, West St. Paul, and South St. Paul. Today, the surrounding landscape is fully developed and consists of a mix of land uses, including residential neighborhoods, parks, schools, and commercial corridors. Master Plan Purpose The master plan: Provides strategic guidance for future greenway development Integrates recreation, transportation, natural resource management, and improved water quality Provides recommendations for natural and cultural resource stewardship design direction Recommends implementation strategies for land protection, development phasing, capital and operations budgets, and funding River to River Greenway DRAFT MASTER PLAN Executive Summary 2015 EXISTING CONDITIONS The River to River Greenway’s route travels from the Lilydale trailhead of the Big Rivers Regional Trail (part of the Minnesota River Greenway) to Kaposia Landing and the Mississippi River Regional Trail through parks, residential, and commercial areas in the communities of Mendota Heights, West St. Paul, and South St. Paul. The greenway links destinations including: Valley Park, Village at Mendota Heights, Henry Sibley High School, Dodge Nature Center, Garlough Park and Elementary School, Marthaler Park, West St. Paul City Hall, Robert Street commercial corridor, Wentworth Library, West St. Paul YMCA, Thompson Oaks Golf Course, Thompson County Park, and Kaposia Park. The River to River Greenway connects the Mississippi River - just downstream Valley Park Paul - after it has traveled through downtown St. Paul. Between these spans of river is a rich, urban and suburban landscape full of residential neighborhoods, retail districts, parks, and open spaces. Cultural Resources Within the greenway corridor there are parks, historical and cultural features, and many recreational resources, both old and new, that have provided people with access to nature for generations. Though few of these resources are considered are an important part of the landscape to the people along the greenway corridor. There are other cultural resources recognized by the State Historic Preservation Wentworth House. There does not appear to have been many architectural/ historical evaluations within the corridor, but much of the housing stock is of a Village at Mendota Heights could uncover some additionally intriguing resources. Natural Resources The River to River Greenway corridor connects several forested parks and open spaces through urban and suburban development patterns. The overall quality of the Minnesota County Biological Survey (MCBS) and the Minnesota Land Cover -- Valley Park and Kaposia Park -- that consist of moderate to high quality plant communities. Thompson County Park River to River Greenway DRAFT MASTER PLAN Executive Summary 2015 RIVER TO RIVER GREENWAY CONCEPT PLAN THE PLAN The Development Plan the existing North Urban Regional Trail and reconstructing segments of the trail that are not up to regional standards. The fully realized greenway trail will be a continuous, paved trail for nature-based recreation and non-motorized transportation. The trail is a connective feature linking recreation destinations (places people go for outdoor recreation), activity centers (gathering places along the trail), and trail connections. A w Design features of the Greenway that are signatures of Dakota County Regional be placed at trailheads along the greenway. Trails include: Follows natural resources and has a natural design signature Frequent access points at full service trailheads with restrooms, picnicking, water and vehicle parking (every 3-5 miles) and smaller, more frequent, neighborhood gateways between trailheads Paved trails that are plowed in winter Trailheads will be located at major access points along the greenway. Grade separated crossings at major roads Cultural and natural resource interpretation High quality furnishings at trailheads, gateways and rest areas Universal accessibility Utilizes sustainable building practices and materials Lighting where evening use is anticipated A new underpass at Charlton Avenue to be completed in 2015 will connect the trail between Dodge Nature Center and Garlough Park. Robert Street Pedestrian Bridge Section Looking North from Wentworth Avenue Existing New trail bridge Existing Robert Street spanning four lanes Robert Street Proposed multi-family Thompson Oaks commercial commercial residentialGolf Course businesses median businesses NOT TO SCALE River to River Greenway DRAFT MASTER PLAN Executive Summary 2015 Enhancements to at-grade crossings will improve safety. AUSTIN BENCH RIDE BIKE LOOPCALLISTO BOLLARD Outdoor furnishings, such as benches, bike racks and lighting, will be placed conveniently along the greenway for resting and safety. Grade separated crossings will be used to cross major roadways or railroads. The Interpretive Plan a framework for cultural and environmental interpretive education. The plan recommends that the theme and subthemes be integrated into the greenway design and interpretation concentrated at trailheads and neighborhood gateways. The greenway area contains a rich cultural history with stories of key historical that can be highlighted along the greenway include Dodd Road, Dodge Nature Center, Kaposia Park, the historic Wentworth house, and other parks and schools. This rich cultural history offers opportunities to integrate interpretation into The Greenway. Interpretive Theme to River Greenway. Subthemes Leading the Way places along the greenway. Connecting Open Spaces - The greenway connects parks and places The Wentworth House preserved for future generations, creating a respite from urban surroundings. Image source: Google Earth Pathways to the Past - The greenway crosses prominent transportation corridors that have shaped this urban landscape. River to River Greenway DRAFT MASTER PLAN Executive Summary 2015 The Stewardship Plan The linear nature of the River to River Greenway will require natural resource management strategies that are geographically targeted, cooperative, and realistic. The plan recommends restoration and protection efforts be focused at the trailhead locations, where there is the greatest opportunity for greenway users to see the results of activities. Stewardship activities in the larger greenway corridor will need to be in cooperation with public and private landowners. All stewardship actions should be evaluated through the lens of sustainability – is the stewardship effort sustainable over the long-term, from both an ecological and economic perspective? IMPLEMENTATION & MANAGEMENT Implementation will depend on multi-jurisdictional collaboration. Without continued coordination between the communities and agencies that the greenway travels through it is unlikely the greenway, as it is envisioned, will be fully realized. While the 30’ regional trail corridor will be the jurisdictional and operational responsibility of Dakota County, the larger greenway corridor will be governed in many ways depending on the situation and land ownership. As greenway segments are reconstructed or enhanced to regional trail standards, formal joint powers agreements between Dakota County and collaborating agencies trail right-of-way, as well as who will operate and maintain the trail and how they will do it. Similarly, responsibilities for land acquisition, construction, stewardship, operations, and maintenance will depend on the particularities of each segment. River to River Greenway Habitat Investment Areas River to River Greenway DRAFT MASTER PLAN Executive Summary 2015 Land Protection and Stewardship Dakota County’s greenway concept expands the traditional concept of a corridor to include recreation, transportation, ecology, and water quality components in a 100’ - 300’ corridor. Because securing the entire width of the corridor is not feasible, a dual approach to securing greenway lands is recommended. Land Protection is essential to make the greenway usable to the public. For the River to River Greenway, having existed as the North Urban Regional Trail for several years, the majority of the land is already in public ownership or under a trail easement. For land owned by other public agencies, Dakota County will need to permanently protect the trail Creek at Big Rivers Regional Trailhead corridor and trailheads for greenway trail use with easements or joint powers agreements. For land that is currently privately owned, the County will need to protect the trail corridor for public use. Land protection strategies include: park dedication, direct purchase with resale of land not required for the trail, permanent easements, land donation, bargain sale, life estate, and negotiations with cities and developers. Land Stewardship refers to the care of native landscapes and habitat within the wider greenway. Generally, Dakota County will not be the lead agency in stewardship activities outside of the 30’ trail corridor, but will work as a steward partner with local jurisdictions, agencies, and private landowners by providing funding and expertise whenever possible. Garlough Park is an environmental learning site for Garlough Elementary students. Phasing and Priorities any project can be implemented as partnership or funding opportunities arise. First priority projects are those that are needed to create a continuous, functionalgreenway experience. It is intended that recreation, water quality, and natural resource elements be integrated into the greenway at the time of initial construction. y Second priorit projects will enhance the greenway experience. These Kaposia Park in South St. Paul contains the are more expensive trail reconstruction segments, trailhead development, only MLCCS and enhancements to existing trail segments. communities along the corridor. Long-term projectswill be installed as funding, partnerships, or construction opportunities arise. River to River Greenway DRAFT MASTER PLAN Executive Summary 2015 River to River Greenway Priority Projects Potential Potential Project DescriptionPriorityPartners/ Project DescriptionPriorityPartners/ TriggersTriggers New trail on south side of Wentworth Ave from Humboldt to 2nd Big Rivers Trailhead - minor improvements2nd Livingston Coordinate with City Improvements to trail from Big Rivers Trailhead to northern sharp Long-term / As New trail / bridge over Robert St from Wentworth and Livingston 1stproject and grant turn in Valley Parkopportunities arise to Wentworth and Marthaler Ln funding Neighborhood Gateway at Wentworth Library - minor 2nd 1st improvements including signage & Lilydale Rd Trail along Wentworth Ave from Marthaler Lane to Oakdale Ave - 1st reconstruct trail to 10' width Neighborhood Gateway to residential area in Valley Park - minor 2nd improvements including signage Improvements to existing trail along Oakdale Ave from Coordinate with 1st Wentworth Ave to Thompson AveCounty Transp.Dept. Long-term / As Alternative 1 Trail construction opportunities arise Improvements to existing trail along Oakdale Ave from Thompson Coordinate with 1st Ave to just south of Emerson AveCounty Transp.Dept. Alternative 2 Trail construction 1st Neighborhood Gateway in Valley Park just north of Marie Ave - 1st 2nd Emerson Ave minor improvements including signage Long-term / As Long-term / As Valley Park - South Side Near TH 110 - reduce steep grades New trail through Thompson Oaks Golf Course opportunities arise opportunities arise Long-term / As Neighborhood Gateway in Thompson County Park - minor Grade-separated crossing at Dodd Rd 2nd opportunities arise improvements including signage Improvements to trail from Dodd Rd to Warrior Drive (lighting, Long-term / As Trail improvements through Thompson County Park -- Only landscaping)opportunities ariseminor grade issues, so no recommended improvements until trail 2nd rehabilitation is needed Neighborhood Gateway at Village at Mendota Heights2nd Trail improvements through Kaposia Park -- No steep grade corrections are being recommended at this time as the trail is Alternative 3 Trail improvements and new rerouted trail segment in good condition and the existing terrain will limit correction 2nd in Garlough Park - Evaluate an alternate alignment, smooth out 1st options. Add landings to various points along Kaposia Park trail to steep grades on alignment that would remain, restore existing decrease overall length of continuous steep grade. trail area to grass Trail improvements between Garlough and Marthaler Parks2nd Neighborhood Gateway at western entrance of Kaposia Park - 2nd Marthalter Park - Alternative 4 Trail Construction - Evaluate an minor improvements including signage alternate alignment to reduce grades and avoid use of narrrow Coordinate with City concrete sidewalk, new alignment includes retaining wall to 1stof W St Paul park Address drainage concerns. Swales along the trail and shallow reduce impacts. Additional alternatives should be evaluated to improvements culverts are recommended where feasible to keep the trail dry 2nd provide lower cost and impact options. and prevent premature wear of pavement. Coordinate with City Trailhead in Marthaler Park 1st 1st project At-grade crossing improvements at Humboldt Ave and 1st Wentworth Ave River to River Greenway DRAFT MASTER PLAN Executive Summary 2015 Funding Funding will be a collaboration between the County, Cities, and the Minnesota DNR as appropriate. Cost share roles will be determined based on the strengths of each agency and circumstances of each project. In-kind contributions of land, easements, design, engineering, construction, maintenance, and operations are encouraged and will be outlined in individual joint powers agreements between agencies. It is anticipated that most future capital projects will be positioned to secure regional, state, and federal funds for recreation, water, and habitat, and that these sources will account for the majority of capital construction costs. In many cases, but not all, Dakota County, as the regional agency, will be in the best position to pursue outside funding. Examples of outside funding sources include: NPS Rivers, Trails, and Conservation Assistance Program Federal Transportation Grants (Map 21) Minnesota Department of Transportation Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Minnesota Pollution Control Agency Metropolitan Council The Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund Clean Water, Land, and Legacy Amendment Watershed Management Organizations Statewide Health Improvement Program (SHIP) Funding for annual operating and maintenance costs for the 30’ regional trail corridor and trailheads will primarily be the responsibility of Dakota County. Annual operating costs are funded though the Dakota County General Fund Budget and performing maintenance and operations, Dakota County will enter into a joint powers agreement outlining responsibilities and cost sharing. River to River Greenway DRAFT MASTER PLAN Executive Summary 2015 RIVER TO RIVER GREENWAY MASTER PLAN 2015 Hoisington Koegler Group Inc. Bolton & Menk 106 Group River to River Greenway MASTER PLAN Executive Summary DRAFT - FEBRUARY 2015 FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT WWW.HKGI.COM/PROJECTS/DAKOTA INTRODUCTION The River to River Greenway Master Plan portrays a vision to establish a River greenway from the Big Rivers Regional to River Trailhead along the Mississippi River Greenway in Lilydale to Kaposia Landing along the Mississippi River in South St. Paul. The River to River Greenway is an enhanced corridor that follows the North Urban Regional Trail (NURT) in northern Dakota County. The greenway vision and planning process is outlined in Dakota County Parks, Lakes, Trails and Greenways Vision 2030 and TheDakota County Greenway Collaborative Guidebook. water quality, habitat enhancement, recreation, and non-motorized transportation. The River to River Greenway travels 8 miles through Mendota Heights, West St. Paul, and South St. Paul. Today, the surrounding landscape is fully developed and consists of a mix of land uses, including residential neighborhoods, parks, schools, and commercial corridors. Master Plan Purpose The master plan: Provides strategic guidance for future greenway development Integrates recreation, transportation, natural resource management, and improved water quality Provides recommendations for natural and cultural resource stewardship design direction Recommends implementation strategies for land protection, development phasing, capital and operations budgets, and funding River to River Greenway DRAFT MASTER PLAN Executive Summary 2015 EXISTING CONDITIONS The River to River Greenway’s route travels from the Lilydale trailhead of the Big Rivers Regional Trail (part of the Minnesota River Greenway) to Kaposia Landing and the Mississippi River Regional Trail through parks, residential, and commercial areas in the communities of Mendota Heights, West St. Paul, and South St. Paul. The greenway links destinations including: Valley Park, Village at Mendota Heights, Henry Sibley High School, Dodge Nature Center, Garlough Park and Elementary School, Marthaler Park, West St. Paul City Hall, Robert Street commercial corridor, Wentworth Library, West St. Paul YMCA, Thompson Oaks Golf Course, Thompson County Park, and Kaposia Park. The River to River Greenway connects the Mississippi River - just downstream Valley Park Paul - after it has traveled through downtown St. Paul. Between these spans of river is a rich, urban and suburban landscape full of residential neighborhoods, retail districts, parks, and open spaces. Cultural Resources Within the greenway corridor there are parks, historical and cultural features, and many recreational resources, both old and new, that have provided people with access to nature for generations. Though few of these resources are considered are an important part of the landscape to the people along the greenway corridor. There are other cultural resources recognized by the State Historic Preservation Wentworth House. There does not appear to have been many architectural/ historical evaluations within the corridor, but much of the housing stock is of a Village at Mendota Heights could uncover some additionally intriguing resources. Natural Resources The River to River Greenway corridor connects several forested parks and open spaces through urban and suburban development patterns. The overall quality of the Minnesota County Biological Survey (MCBS) and the Minnesota Land Cover -- Valley Park and Kaposia Park -- that consist of moderate to high quality plant communities. Thompson County Park River to River Greenway DRAFT MASTER PLAN Executive Summary 2015 RIVER TO RIVER GREENWAY CONCEPT PLAN THE PLAN The Development Plan the existing North Urban Regional Trail and reconstructing segments of the trail that are not up to regional standards. The fully realized greenway trail will be a continuous, paved trail for nature-based recreation and non-motorized transportation. The trail is a connective feature linking recreation destinations (places people go for outdoor recreation), activity centers (gathering places along the trail), and trail connections. A Design features of the Greenway that are signatures of Dakota County Regional be placed at trailheads along the greenway. Trails include: Follows natural resources and has a natural design signature Frequentaccess points at full service trailheads with restrooms, picnicking, water and vehicle parking (every 3-5 miles) and smaller, more frequent, neighborhood gateways between trailheads Paved trails that are plowed in winter Trailheads will be located at major access points along the greenway. Grade separated crossings at major roads Cultural and natural resource interpretation High quality furnishings at trailheads, gateways and rest areas Universal accessibility Utilizes sustainable building practices and materials Lighting where evening use is anticipated A new underpass at Charlton Avenue to be completed in 2015 will connect the trail between Dodge Nature Center and Garlough Park. Robert Street Pedestrian Bridge Section Looking North from Wentworth Avenue Existing New trail bridge Existing Robert Street spanning four lanes Robert Street Proposed multi-family Thompson Oaks commercial commercial residentialGolf Course businesses median businesses NOT TO SCALE River to River Greenway DRAFT MASTER PLAN Executive Summary 2015 Enhancements to at-grade crossings will improve safety. AUSTIN BENCH RIDE BIKE LOOPCALLISTO BOLLARD Outdoor furnishings, such as benches, bike racks and lighting, will be placed conveniently along the greenway for resting and safety. Grade separated crossings will be used to cross major roadways or railroads. The Interpretive Plan a framework for cultural and environmental interpretive education. The plan recommends that the theme and subthemes be integrated into the greenway design and interpretation concentrated at trailheads and neighborhood gateways. The greenway area contains a rich cultural history with stories of key historical that can be highlighted along the greenway include Dodd Road, Dodge Nature Center, Kaposia Park, the historic Wentworth house, and other parks and schools. This rich cultural history offers opportunities to integrate interpretation into The Greenway. Interpretive Theme to River Greenway. Subthemes Leading the Way places along the greenway. Connecting Open Spaces - The greenway connects parks and places The Wentworth House preserved for future generations, creating a respite from urban surroundings. Image source: Google Earth Pathways to the Past - The greenway crosses prominent transportation corridors that have shaped this urban landscape. River to River Greenway DRAFT MASTER PLAN Executive Summary 2015 The Stewardship Plan The linear nature of the River to River Greenway will require natural resource management strategies that are geographically targeted, cooperative, and realistic. The plan recommends restoration and protection efforts be focused at the trailhead locations, where there is the greatest opportunity for greenway users to see the results of activities. Stewardship activities in the larger greenway corridor will need to be in cooperation with public and private landowners. All stewardship actions should be evaluated through the lens of sustainability – is the stewardship effort sustainable over the long-term, from both an ecological and economic perspective? IMPLEMENTATION & MANAGEMENT Implementation will depend on multi-jurisdictional collaboration. Without continued coordination between the communities and agencies that the greenway travels through it is unlikely the greenway, as it is envisioned, will be fully realized. While the 30’ regional trail corridor will be the jurisdictional and operational responsibility of Dakota County, the larger greenway corridor will be governed in many ways depending on the situation and land ownership. As greenway segments are reconstructed or enhanced to regional trail standards, formal joint powers agreements between Dakota County and collaborating agencies trail right-of-way, as well as who will operate and maintain the trail and how they will do it. Similarly, responsibilities for land acquisition, construction, stewardship, operations, and maintenance will depend on the particularities of each segment. River to River Greenway Habitat Investment Areas River to River Greenway DRAFT MASTER PLAN Executive Summary 2015 Land Protection and Stewardship Dakota County’s greenway concept expands the traditional concept of a corridor to include recreation, transportation, ecology, and water quality components in a 100’ - 300’ corridor. Because securing the entire width of the corridor is not feasible, a dual approach to securing greenway lands is recommended. Land Protection is essential to make the greenway usable to the public. For the River to River Greenway, having existed as the North Urban Regional Trail for several years, the majority of the land is already in public ownership or under a trail easement. For land owned by other public agencies, Dakota County will need to permanently protect the trail Creek at Big Rivers Regional Trailhead corridor and trailheads for greenway trail use with easements or joint powers agreements. For land that is currently privately owned, the County will need to protect the trail corridor for public use. Land protection strategies include: park dedication, direct purchase with resale of land not required for the trail, permanent easements, land donation, bargain sale, life estate, and negotiations with cities and developers. LandStewardship refers to the care of native landscapes and habitat within the wider greenway. Generally, Dakota County will not be the lead agency in stewardship activities outside of the 30’ trail corridor, but will work as a steward partner with local jurisdictions, agencies, and private landowners by providing funding and expertise whenever possible. Garlough Park is an environmental learning site for Garlough Elementary students. Phasing and Priorities any project can be implemented as partnership or funding opportunities arise. First priority projects are those that are needed to create a continuous, functional greenway experience. It is intended that recreation, water quality, and natural resource elements be integrated into the greenway at the time of initial construction. y Second priorit projects will enhance the greenway experience. These Kaposia Park in South St. Paul contains the are more expensive trail reconstruction segments, trailhead development, only MLC and enhancements to existing trail segments. communities along the corridor. Long-term projectswill be installed as funding, partnerships, or construction opportunities arise. River to River Greenway DRAFT MASTER PLAN Executive Summary 2015 River to River Greenway Priority Projects Potential Potential Project DescriptionPriorityPartners/ Project DescriptionPriorityPartners/ TriggersTriggers New trail on south side of Wentworth Ave from Humboldt to 2nd Big Rivers Trailhead - minor improvements2nd Livingston Coordinate with City Improvements to trail from Big Rivers Trailhead to northern sharp Long-term / As New trail / bridge over Robert St from Wentworth and Livingston 1stproject and grant turn in Valley Parkopportunities arise to Wentworth and Marthaler Ln funding Neighborhood Gateway at Wentworth Library - minor 2nd 1st improvements including signage & Lilydale Rd Trail along Wentworth Ave from Marthaler Lane to Oakdale Ave - 1st reconstruct trail to 10' width Neighborhood Gateway to residential area in Valley Park - minor 2nd improvements including signage Improvements to existing trail along Oakdale Ave from Coordinate with 1st Wentworth Ave to Thompson AveCounty Transp.Dept. Long-term / As Alternative 1 Trail construction opportunities arise Improvements to existing trail along Oakdale Ave from Thompson Coordinate with 1st Ave to just south of Emerson AveCounty Transp.Dept. Alternative 2 Trail construction 1st Neighborhood Gateway in Valley Park just north of Marie Ave - 1st 2nd Emerson Ave minor improvements including signage Long-term / As Long-term / As Valley Park - South Side Near TH 110 - reduce steep grades New trail through Thompson Oaks Golf Course opportunities arise opportunities arise Long-term / As Neighborhood Gateway in Thompson County Park - minor Grade-separated crossing at Dodd Rd 2nd opportunities arise improvements including signage Improvements to trail from Dodd Rd to Warrior Drive (lighting, Long-term / As Trail improvements through Thompson County Park -- Only landscaping)opportunities ariseminor grade issues, so no recommended improvements until trail 2nd rehabilitation is needed Neighborhood Gateway at Village at Mendota Heights2nd Trail improvements through Kaposia Park -- No steep grade corrections are being recommended at this time as the trail is Alternative 3 Trail improvements and new rerouted trail segment in good condition and the existing terrain will limit correction 2nd in Garlough Park - Evaluate an alternate alignment, smooth out 1st options. Add landings to various points along Kaposia Park trail to steep grades on alignment that would remain, restore existing decrease overall length of continuous steep grade. trail area to grass Trail improvements between Garlough and Marthaler Parks2nd Neighborhood Gateway at western entrance of Kaposia Park - 2nd Marthalter Park - Alternative 4 Trail Construction - Evaluate an minor improvements including signage alternate alignment to reduce grades and avoid use of narrrow Coordinate with City concrete sidewalk, new alignment includes retaining wall to 1stof W St Paul park Address drainage concerns. Swales along the trail and shallow reduce impacts. Additional alternatives should be evaluated to improvements culverts are recommended where feasible to keep the trail dry 2nd provide lower cost and impact options. and prevent premature wear of pavement. Coordinate with City Trailhead in Marthaler Park 1st 1st project At-grade crossing improvements at Humboldt Ave and 1st Wentworth Ave River to River Greenway DRAFT MASTER PLAN Executive Summary 2015 Funding Funding will be a collaboration between the County, Cities, and the Minnesota DNR as appropriate. Cost share roles will be determined based on the strengths of each agency and circumstances of each project. In-kind contributions of land, easements, design, engineering, construction, maintenance, and operations are encouraged and will be outlined in individual joint powers agreements between agencies. It is anticipated that most future capital projects will be positioned to secure regional, state, and federal funds for recreation, water, and habitat, and that these sources will account for the majority of capital construction costs. In many cases, but not all, Dakota County, as the regional agency, will be in the best position to pursue outside funding. Examples of outside funding sources include: NPS Rivers, Trails, and Conservation Assistance Program FederalTransportation Grants (Map 21) Minnesota Department of Transportation Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Minnesota Pollution Control Agency Metropolitan Council The Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund CleanWater, Land, and Legacy Amendment Watershed Management Organizations Statewide Health Improvement Program (SHIP) Funding for annual operating and maintenance costs for the 30’ regional trail corridor and trailheads will primarily be the responsibility of Dakota County. Annual operating costs are funded though the Dakota County General Fund Budget and performing maintenance and operations, Dakota County will enter into a joint powers agreement outlining responsibilities and cost sharing. River to River Greenway DRAFT MASTER PLAN Executive Summary 2015 RIVER TO RIVER GREENWAY MASTER PLAN 2015 Hoisington Koegler Group Inc. Bolton & Menk 106 Group DATE: February 10, 2015 TO: Parks and RecreationCommission FROM: Sloan Wallgren, Recreation Program Coordinator SUBJECT: Dog Park Update Update The council has directed staff to continue talks with St. Paul about the dog park that is planned for Lilydale Regional Park. The council would possibly consider partnering with St. Paul on a dog park if theconditionsand timeline were appropriate. In the meantime councilhas directed staff to continu dog park on the west side of the city along old Highway 13(just north of the scenicoverlook). Fundingfor the construction of a dog park will come from the General Fund, not the SpecialParks Fund. Action Required No action is required on this item at this time, this is just an update on the Dog Park issue.