1996-04-09 Parks and Rec Comm Agenda PacketCITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS
DAKOTA COUNTY, MINNESOTA
AGENDA
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
April 9, 1996
6*30 p.m. - City Council Chambers
Call to Order
2. Roll Call
Approval of February 13, 19961�imutes
Mendota Heights Athletic Association T-Ball Update
• Norm Gellerman, Executive Director MHAA
• Sue Hanson, MHAA T-Ball Commissioner
5. Bethel Baptist Church Request for Mendakota Field
• Pastor Don Delich, Bethel Baptist Church
6. Saint Thomas Request for Tennis Courts
7. Dakota County Annual Information Sharing Meeting
Fort Snelling State Pazk Advisory Committee Update
• Chris Esser, Recreation Programmer
9. North Urban Regional Trail
10. Updates
• Dakota County Parks and Recreation Council Committee meeting
• Proposal for Partnership - Mississippi River Coordinating Commission
• Parks Report
• Police Report
• Mendakota Lights Task Force
11. Adjourn
Auxiliary aids for disabled persons aze available upon request 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 452-1850 with requests.
CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS
DAKOTA COUNTY, MINNESOTA
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES
MARCH 12, 1996
The regular meeting of the Mendota Heights Parks and Recreation Commission
was held on Tuesday, March 12, 1996 in the City Council Chambers, 1101
Victoria Curve. The meeting was called to order at 6:35 p.m. The following
members were present: Liberacki, Libra, Spicer, Norton, Linnell and Damberg.
Commissioner Kleinglass was excused. Also present were Interim City
Administrator Kevin Batchelder, Parks Project Manager Guy Kullander and
Recreation Programmer Chris Esser.
KENSINGTON SOCCER FIELD
Commissioner Libra inquired if the Kensington soccer fields would again be
top dressed this spring. Parks Project Manager Kullander responded yes,
that the soccer fields at Kensington had already received two or three
applications of top dressing at this stage and that a fourth top dressing will
occur this spring including over seeding.
INTRODUCTION OF NEW RECREATION
PROGRAMMER - CHRIS ESSER
Chair Spicer introduced the new Recreation Programmer, Mr. Chris Esser to
the other members of the Parks and Recreation Commission.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Commissioner Linnell moved to approve the February 13, 7996 minutes
with corrections.
Commissioner Liberacki seconded the motion.
AYES: 6
NAYS: 0
MENDAKOTA PARK LIGHTS
TASK FORCE
Interim City Administrator Batchelder stated that the City Council had
s` considered a feasibility study for lights at the Mendakota Park ballfields at
their February 20, 1996 meeting. Batchelder stated the City Council
WENTWORTH PARK
Parks Project Manager Kullander stated the 1996 Capital Improvement Plan
had scheduled $20,000 to be budgeted from the Special Park Fund for
improvements in Wentworth Park including a picnic shelter, grills, enlarged
warming house and enlarged free skating area. Kullander stated that at the
Park Commission's last discussion of this issue they had stated their intent
to provide one shelter similar to the picnic shelters existing at Kensington
Park. Kullander stated that if we go with a larger size than the 16' x 16'
shelters in Kensington Park we will incur the costs of an architect to design
the building. Kullander stated that if we go with a 16' x 16' picnic shelter
then we can use the Kensington plan as is without the need to hire an
architect. Kullander estimated the cost of this to be approximately
$1100000
Kullander described where the grills would be installed and stated that it
was a possibility to place some stone benches in the picnic area. Kullander
stated that the Commission had expressed an interest in brushing out the
trees in the area north of the parking lot and that this could be done and a
woodchip trail could be placed through these trees to open this area.
Kullander stated the purpose of brushing out this wooded area would be to
help the pine trees and significant trees thrive. Kullander described the
enlarged free skating area. He discussed enlarging of the warming house
and the potential that an enlarged warming house could also be used in the
summer for recreation classes.
The Commission discussed the appropriate size and number of picnic
shelters for Wentworth Park. The Commission agreed that extra picnic
tables should be placed around the picnic shelter as a place for people to
congregate for picnics.
Commissioner Damberg moved to recommend that a 16° x 16' shelter
similar to the design at Kensington Park be placed in Wentworth Park in
1996.
Commissioner Norton seconded the motion.
Commissioner Linnell expressed a concern that a 16' x 16' shelter might be
too small for Wentworth Park. Linnell stated that both Valley Park and
Fioger's Lake Park have 20' x 24' picnic shelters that are capable of holding
four picnic tables underneath the roof.
The Commission discussed the appropriate size of a picnic shelter in
Wentworth Park and the appropriate amount to budget for a shelter that is
of a similar design and size as Kensington Park.
The Commission discussed this constituent's request and instructed
Recreation Programmer Esser to invite the T-ball Commissioner to visit with
the Parks and Recreation Commission in April so that the Parks Commission
could review the T-ball program, its costs and the City's annual subsidy.
Chair Spicer stated that Mendota Heights Athletic Association T-ball
program has age restrictions because of safety issues and the abilities of
children at those ages.
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business, the Parks and Recreation Commission
moved to adjourn its meeting at 8:05 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Kevin Batchelde.�
Interim City Admi ator
TO: Parks and Recreation Commissioners
FROM: Chris Esser, Recreation Programmer
RE: Mendota Heights Athletic Association T-Ball Update
DATE: April 3, 1996
The City of Mendota Heights has been subsidizing the Mendota Heights Athletic Association
for their T-Ball program since 1988. The subsidy was created when the City no longer
sponsored youth T-Ball, and the program was turned over to the Athletic Association.
Norm Gellerman, Executive Director of MHAA, and Sue Hanson, T-Ball Commissioner of
MHAA, have been invited per Commission's request to present an overview of the current T-
Ball program and policies. The purpose of their presentation is to answer any questions and/or
concerns the Commission may have in regards to the T-Ball program.
Discuss Mendota Heights Athletic Association T-Ball program and its policies.
TO: Parks and Recreation Commissioners
FROM: Chris Esser, Recreation Programmer
RE: Bethel Baptist Church Mendakota Fields Request
DATE: Apri13, 1996
Pastor Don Delich of Bethel Baptist Church has requested the use of all four Mendakota Fields
for Fridays, May 3rd to August 16th. The fields are available due to the cancellation of the
Friday City -sponsored Co-Rec league. The concern of granting the request is the issue of
residency status of the church softball league. Pastor Delich, who submitted the request, is a
Mendota Heights resident, however, the sponsoring organization, Bethel Baptist Church, is not
located in Mendota Heights. Also, stated in Pastor Delich's request, fewer than 50% of the
league participants are Mendota Heights residents. These factors raise resident vs. non-
resident fee issues.
Pastor Delich has requested to present his league information to the Commission, and will
attend April 9th.
Resident or non-resident fee recommendation for Bethel Baptist Church softball league.
I. SHELIER/BUILDING RENTAL (continued)
E. Reservations will be tentatively recorded in the reservation book when called in.
Applicants will have hree working days to submit deposits and fees or their
reservation may be canceled.
F. A damage deposit of $100.00 will be required by all roues reserving picnic
shelters in the parks, with the exception of nonprofit youth service organizations.
The deposit is due when making the written reservation. The facility will be
inspected immediately after the event and provided there are no damages, or
clean-up costs, the deposit will be returned promptly.
G. The Mendota Heights Police Department and Parks Maintenance crews will be
notified of all reservations. 11
H. Groups wishing to reserve shelters shall abide by the attached rules and
regulations and a copy of the park permit will be issued by the City to the
sponsor setting forth the terms for the use of the shelter. The attached rules and
regulations are identified as "Exhibit A".
I. Mendota Heights schools, nonprofit civic organizations and City of Mendota
Heights employee organizations are fee exempt. These groups must, however,
pay a damage deposit.
There will not
be a park
attendant on duty.
The reserving group is responsible
for supervising
the event
and for cleaning the
reserved area.
K. The refund policy for canceled reservations shall be:
Cancellation
14 days in advance
100 %
refund
Cancellation
1 to 13 days in advance
50
refund
Refunds due to inclement weather on the day of the event will not be considered.
There will be no additional charge for rescheduling of events postponed due to
weather.
A. Volleyball Nets $ 5.00 per day
B. Extra picnic tables $ 5.00 each
(limited quantity available)
C. Horseshoes $5.00 per set
A deposit of $10.00 will be required for equipment rentals excluding picnic tables.
IV. FIELD/SITE RESERVATIONS (continued)
All requests for field reservations will be made in writing between January 1 and
March 15. Field reservations will be confirmed by April 1 and any requests
received after March 15 will be handled on a first come, first served basis. The
field reservation priorities are identified as Exhibit "C".
B. Soccer $35.00 per field for non-residents
Field preparation $25.00 per field for weekend
tournaments
All requests for field reservations for the summer season (May 1 through August
15) will be made in writing between January 1 and March 15. Field reservations
will be confirmed by April 1 and any requests received after March 15 will be
handled on a first come, fast served basis. All requests for field reservations for
the fall season (August 16 through October 31) will be made in writing between
7tine 1 and July 15. Field reservations for the fall season will be confirmed by
August 1 and any request after July 15 will be handled on a first come, first
served basis. The field reservation priorities are identified as Exhibit "C".
C. Ice Rinks
$20.00 per site per hour for non -residents
$5.00 per rink per hour for lights.
There will be no reservations between 12:00-6:00 p.m. on weekends and School
Holidays.
D. Volleyball Courts First come, first served, except City
sponsored programs
E. Basketball Courts First come, first served
F. Tennis Courts -Tennis courts are available on a first come, first served basis for
Mendota Heights residents and are not to be reserved. The following community
groups may reserve tennis courts with the permission of the Parks and Recreation
Commission and the City Council - Mendota Heights Athletic Association, the
Mendota Heights Senior Tennis Association, and all public and private schools
in Mendota Heights,
G. The following groups are exempted from the above described fees, excluding field
preparations which willbe determined and negotiated on a case by case basis:
Mendota Heights Parks and Recreation Department, Mendota Heights Athletic
Association, Sibley Area Girls Fast -pitch, Sibley Sting Soccer and nonprofit*
organizations within Mendota Heights city limits. *Proof of non-profit status is
required.
EXIiIBII "C"
1
1. First priority will be given to programs sponsored by the Mendota Heights Recreation
Department,
2. Second priority will be given to organized youth programs of Mendota Heights,
including, but not limited to, Mendota Heights Athletic Association, Sibley Area Girls
Fast -pitch, and Sibley Sting Soccer. Organized youth programs are those programs
with the following characteristics:
a. The program is offered on a community wide basis for open participation by
the general youth public; and
b. The program is offered on an on -going, annual basis; and
c. The program is targeted to similar age brackets on an annual basis; and
d. The intent of the program is to serve a broad range of youths in the
community and not be exclusive in nature.
e. Community is defined as pertaining to Mendota Heights residents.
3. Third priority will be given to youth programs of Mendota Heights that are not
considered organized youth programs.
4. Fourth priority will be given to organized adult programs in Mendota Heights. The
larger the number of Mendota Heights residents in the organized adult program, the
higher the priority for field reservations.
5. Fifth priority will be given to Resident/1?rivate Groups.
6. Sixth priority will be given to non-resident youth or adult programs.
CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS
MEMO
Apri14, 1996
TO: Parks and Recreation Commission and Interim City Administrator
FROM: Patrick C. Hollister, Administrative Intern
SUBJECT: St. Thomas Request for Tennis Courts
Discussion
Mr. Jack Zahr, Athletic Director for St. Thomas Academy, has made a request to reserve
tennis courts in Mendota Heights for the upcoming spring tennis season. Specifically, the
request is for the reservation of Roger's Park and Valley Park courts from April 1, 1996
to June 1, 1996 from 3:15 pm to 5:15 pm, Monday through Friday.
According to Parks Reservation Policy, tennis court reservations must be made through
the Parks and Recreation Commission and the City Council. Last year a similar request
was made by St. Thomas Academy. The Parks and Recreation Commission unanimously
recommended that the City Council approve a request by St. Thomas Academy for the
reservation of Roger's Lake Park and Valley Park tennis courts from April 1, 1995 until
June 1, 1995, from 3:15 pm to 5:15 pm, Monday through Friday, under the condition that
if a reservation at Valley Park proves to be problematic, then St. Thomas would use Marie
or Wentworth Park instead. The Council followed the Planning Commission's advice.
Recommendation
If the Commission wishes to recommend approval of this request to the Council, it may
want to once again apply last year's condition.
Action Required
Discuss St. Thomas Academy's request and advise the City Council.
TO: Parks and Recreation Commissioners
FROM: Chris Esser, Recreation Programmer
RE: Dakota County Annual Information Sharing Meeting
DATE: April 2, 1996
The Dakota County Parks and Advisory Committee has extended an invitation to
Commissioners to attend their annual information meeting. The meeting is scheduled for 4:30
p.m., Thursday, May 16, 1996 at the Spring Lake Park Reserve Youth Camp Lodge.
The purpose of this meeting is to "promote communication and understanding of our unique
and complimentary roles as park agencies within Dakota County." Each agency will present a
short description of their department's mission/vision, current projects, initiatives, and issues.
I will be attending the meeting and request a volunteer commissioner to accompany me.
Dinner will be provided. Attached is a copy of the letter from the County describing the
purpose and details of the meeting. Thank you for your consideration.
DAKOTA COUNTY
8500127TH STREET EAST- HASTINGS, MINNESOTA 55033
Deaz City Pazk Director:
PARKS DEPARTMENT
(612)438-4660
FAX (612) 437-4560
March 22, 1996
On behalf of the Dakota County Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee (PARAC), I am pleased to
invite your park committee and director to what is becoming an annual information sharing meeting. This
meeting is scheduled for 4:30 PM, Thursday, May 16, 1996 at the Spring Lake Pazk Reserve Youth Group
Lodge. (Directional map enclosed.)
The purpose of the meeting is to promote communication and understanding of our unique and
complimentary roles as pazk agencies within Dakota County. Time has been scheduled for each agency to
provide a 5 - 8 minute presentation on your department's mission/vision, current projects, initiatives and
issues. If you are unable to make a presentation, could you make arrangements with someone within your
agency to do so? Also, to facilitate discussion, we ask that you mail or fax a copy of your agency's
mission vision statement to: Dakota County Pazks Departrnent, 8500 127th Street East, Hastings, MN
55033. Our fax number is 437-4560. Enclosed you will find a copy of Dakota County Pazks Mission
Statement for your review. Thanks for your assistance regarding these items. Lastly, the agenda provides
one hour for an informal inter -agency discussion of our roles as park agencies and for whatever other
subject matter the group finds important.
Supper will be provided, so please RSVP Deb Peters at the Dakota County Park Department Office at
438-4665 by Monday, May 13, 1996, so arrangements can be made.
I look forward to meeting with you and your park committee members.
Sincerely,
Bob Doffing, Chair
Dakota County Park and Recreation Advisory Committee
Enclosures
c: Park Committee Members
BD/jjf
o:parjoint
t
Printed on recycled paper, 20%posl-consumer n AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOVEfl
Philosophy:
Dakota County believes that accessible recreational opportunities
and the preservation of the natural environment are important
elements which contribute to a high quality of life.
Dakota County believes that all of its citizens should have
opportunities for recreation and be able to enjoy nature in
settings unhindered by the pressures of development.
Dakota County believes that the well-being of its residents
requires land be set aside for preservation and recreation.
Dakota County is commuted to developing parks with high
quality facilities that provide a variety of natural resource -
oriented recreational and learning opportunities.
Dakota County believes that parks are a legacy to be left for
future generations.
CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS
Apri14, 1996
TO: Parks and Recreation Commission and Interim City Administrator
FROM: Patrick C. Hollister, Administrative Intern
SUBJECT: Fort Snelling State Park Advisory Committee Meeting
Discussion
Recreation Programmer Chris Esser will attend the meeting of the Fort Snelling State Park
Advisory Committee and will update the Commission at their April 9 meeting.
CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS
MEMO
Apri14, 1996
TO: Parks and Recreation Commission and Interim City Administrator
FROM: Patrick C. Hollister, Administrative Intern
SUBJECT: North Urban Regional Trial
Discussion
Attached is a copy of the revised draft development plan for the North Urban Regional
Trail. In October of last year, the City of Mendota Heights clearly expressed its objection
to any significant changes to Valley Park (see attached letter by Kevin Batchelder and
accompanying Resolutions.)
Dakota County does not appear to have made any concessions to the City in regards to
Valley Park in this most recent addition of the development plan. The only significant
changes from the previous draft relate to the West Saint Paul portion of the trail. Dakota
County held an Open House to review the development plan on April 4, 1996 (see
attached letter.) Staff will provide a verbal update of what happened at the Open House at
the April 9 meeting of the Parks and Recreation Commission.
An Open House for public comments on the Revised Draft Master an for the North Urban
Regional Trail will be held on Thursday, April 4, 1996, at the Wentworth Library, 199 East
Wentworth Avenue, West St. Paul, Minnesota. Interested citizens are invited to attend the Open
House anytime between 4:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m, to meet informally with County staff. No
formal presentations will be given. Complete copies of the revised draft Master Plan will be
available at the Open House and will also be available for review at the Wentworth Library.
At their August 151 1995 meeting, the Dakota County Board of Commissioners adopted a trail
alignment for the North Urban Trail. After the alignment had been adopted, Staff from the Office
of Planning was approached by Mrs. Olivia I. Dodge to investigate a possible trail alignment
alternative. On November 7, 1995 the County Board authorized a reevaluation of the North
Urban Trail alignment.
County staff has met with the consultant retained for this project, Barton-Aschman, Associates;
staff members from the affected local units of government, Lilydale, Mendota Heights, West St.
Paul, and South St. Paul; Mrs, Olivia I. Dodge; and representatives from the Dodge Nature
Center. A Revised Draft Master Plan for this east -west connection, the North Urban Regional
Trail, has been completed.
All comments on the Revised Draft Master Plan for the North Urban Regional Trail will be taken
at the Open House. Written comments are also welcome and will be included as part of the public
testimony. Written comments will be accepted until Friday, May 3,1996. Please send written
comments to:
Dakota County Office of Planning
NURT Comments
14955 Galaxie Avenue
Apple Valley, MN 55124-8579
PdNCTAPNTC-PPR
1 I 1 I 1
1 O Wil IWO 0 U F91a Q101' 91 I I 1
Dakota County
Division of Physical Development
14955 Galaxie Avenue
Apple Valley, MN 55124-8579
June 1994
Revised February 1996
Revised March 1996
Barton-Aschman Associates, Inc.
111 Third Avenue South, Suite 350
Minneapolis, MN 55401
TABLE OF CONTENTS
�►.� r u �uw : ;
1. NORTH URBAN REGIONAL TRAII....................................... 1
Description..........................................................1
Purposeof Plan.......................................................1
Scopeof Plan...............................:........................2
PreferredCorridor....................................................2
2. NEED AND JUSTIFICATION ........................................... 2
Introduction......................................................2
Regional Trail Service Area ............................................. 3
Recreation Trends....................................................3
Local Park and Trail System Access ...................................... 4
Transportation Functions...............................................4
3. PROJECT AREA ...................................................... 5
4. FACILITY PLAN.....................................................6
Users...............................................................6
DesignCriteria.......................................................6
Trailhead Facilities...................................................7
5. PREFERRED TRAIL CORRIDOR ........................................ 9
Segment 1—Lilydale Road (CSAH 45)..................................... 9
Segment2--Valley Park...............................................11
Segment 3--TH 110........................................ ........13
Segment 4-01ivia I. Dodge Property ..................................... 15
Segment 5- Charlton Street .. 17
Segment 6- Garlough Park/Marthaler Park ................................ 19
Segment7wmWentworth Avenue.........................................20
Segment &-Oakdale Avenue (CSAH 73).................................. 22
Segment 9—Thompson County Park ...................................... 24
Segment 10--Kaposia Park/Simon's Ravine ................................ 25
6. IMPLEMENTATION ISSUES .......................................... 27
7. OPERATION AND MANAGEMENT ..................................... 27
Trail Ownership.....................................................27
Public Safety and Security.............................................28
Stewardship..# .....................................................28
Trail and Right -of --Way Maintenance. 28
Dakota County is evaluating development of a regional trail across northern Dakota County.
Exiating and planned regional recreational facilities will be linked by the proposed Dakota
County North Urban Regional Trail. Development of the trail is included in the County's
1994-1998 Capital Improvement Program. Implementation of the trail is subject to approval
of this Development Plan and funding approval.
The Metropolitan Couacii's current Recreational Open Space Development Guide/Policy Plan
identifies a proposed regional trail corridor across northern Dakota County. The trail
corridor is intended to be planned, acquired, or developed by 1996, and is included in the
Capital Improvement Program for Regional Recreation Apen Space, Fiscal Years 1994-1999.
The Metropolitan Council's policy plan states "Trail corridors are intended to provide for
recreational travel along linear pathways throughout the metropolitan area. They are
selected to follow natural or man-made features that traverse areas of scenic appeal and/or
historical architectural and developmental interest. The regional trails are selected to pass
through or provide access to elements in the regional park and park preserve system. The
parks and park reserves perform the important function of offering places for parking,
comfort facilities, safe water supplies, etc. Trails are also selected for their ability to
intersect with local trail networks, with the regional trails functioning much like regional
highways that interconnect with more local arterials and collector streets."
The Dakota County North Urban Regional Trail ie intended to provide an off -road trail
connection across northern Dakota County. The trail will traverse the communities of
Lilydale, Mendota Heights, West St. Paul, and South St. Paul, and provide a link to two
regional trails being developed along the Mississippi River. The trail will connect residential
areas with parks, schools, libraries, government offices, recreational facilities, and
commercial areas.
This plan identifies a preferred regional trail corridor for northern Dakota County. Aa
evaluation of the feasibility of constructing a regional trail across northern Dakota County
and the public need is included. The objectives of this plan are:
• To define a preferred route for a regional trail across northern Dakota County. The
trail is intended to provide a connection to the northwest aegmeat of the Big Rivers
Regional Trail at Lilydale Regional Park and the South St. Paul riverfroat segment of
the Northern Dakota Regional Trail.
• Identify natural and manmade features that can be linked by the trail.
• Identify existing physical features, land use, conflicts and opportunities, and a
development program for each segment of the trail.
• Gain input from cities, agencies, organizations, and the public to guide the
formulation of the implementationtmaster plan for the trail.
This report contains a description of the proposed North Urban Regional Trail, an overview
of recreation needs and required facilities, an evaluation of the proposed trail corridor, and a
description of the implementation plan.
The trail corridor is divided into 10 segments for description and analysis. Existing physical
features, land use, conflicts and opportunities, and a development concept are described for
each trail segment.
Implementation issues for the regional trail plan are identified with proposed solutions. The
attached appendix contains a capital improvements summary, comments from public
agencies and citizens, and other relevant documents and technical data.
Development of a regional trail across Dakota County will provide many challenges.
Northern Dakota County is substantially developed and has areas with rugged topography.
Any trail corridor will traverse areas with steep slopes and limited public right -of --way.
There is an expressed need to provide trail facilities for recreation and transportation
purposes. The trail corridor provides a link for a variety of public facilities.
A variety of potential corridors across northern Dakota County were evaluated. Corridors
considered are shown on Figure 2. A preferred corridor was selected based on physical
features along the corridor and input from the staff of the affected communities. The
preferred corridor uses a substantial amount of existing trail, passes through five different
public parks and is intended to mmn=e impacts to private property. Figure 3 shows the
preferred corridor.
2. NEED AND JUSTIFICATION
The need and justification for a regional trail in northern Dakota County has been
assembled from a variety of different sources highlighted in this section. The corridor's
natural, physical, and cultural characteristics support its designation as a regional public
use resource. Justification for its development and operation is established by the following
items:
• Primary and secondary service area characteristics
• Local and national recreational trends
• Relationship to regional park and open space facilities
• Relationship to local parks and trail access
• Linkages to other regional open space systems
• Transportation functions
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Commuter connections to employment centers would be improved such as the
Mendota Heights office park, Robert Street businesses, and Concord Street
commercial area
In combination with existing local trails, the North Urban Regional Trail provides a network
for alternative transportation.
3. PROJECT AREA
The project area in northern Dakota County is bordered on the south by TH 110 and on the
north, east and west by the Mississippi River. In this area, the Mississippi River Valley is
characterized by wide floodplain, wetlands with lakes and marshes, floodplain terraces, and
high bluffs with steep slopes. The native landscape along the trail corridor has generally
been developed, with the exception of the parks identified on'Figure 3.
The preferred trail corridor is 7.7 miles long, with 3.8 miles traversing park land, 3.2 miles
within public roadway right -of --way along residential or commercial frontage, and 0.7 miles
through public school property. Because the project area is substantially developed, a trail
corridor that does not traverse areas with, existing residential or commercial frontage is not
feasible.
The corridor passes through the following public parks:
• Lilydale-Harriet Island Regional Park
• Valley Park (Mendota Heights)
• Garlough Park (West St. Paul)
• Marthaler Park (West St. Paul)
• Thompson County Park (Dakota County)
• Kaposia Park (South St. Paul)
The corridor provides direct access to the following public facilities:
• Garlough Elementary School
• West at. Paul City Hall
• Dakota County Northern Service Center
• Wentworth Library
• West St. Paul Sports Center (ball field Complex)
• Proposed West St. Paul Golf Course Site
right -of --way existing trails have been constructed much closer to the curb than six feet.
These locations should be reviewed for specific clearance requirements.
See Figure 4 for illustration of typical trail cross section.
Surfacing:
Proposed trail surfacing is bituminous pavement for the treadway with turfed shoulders.
Crushed limestone could be used for the shoulders in locations where heavy pedestrian use
may occur along the trail edges.
Vertical Alignment:
Generally, longitudinal slopes should not exceed 5 percent (5400t rise over 100400t
distance). Where the trail traverses the river bluffs to connect with the regional trails along
the Mississippi River, longitudinal slopes of 10 percent for a distance of about one quarter
mile are necessary.
Flat rest stops should be provided about every 200 feet along segments with slopes exceeding
five percent. Approaches to trail and roadway intersections should have slopes under 2
percent.
Design Speed.
Maximum design speed for bicycles and roller blades on the trail is 15 mph. Adequate
curvature and sight distance should be provided in accordance with AASHTO criteria to
meet the design speed. Due to physical constraints exceptions to the design speed may be
necessary at specific locations. Design speed exceptions should be properly signed to warn
users.
Signing and Lighting:
For the safety and convenience of the trail users the trail corridor should have a uniform
system of signs and pavement markings. Guide signs sad route markers should be used to
give information and identify the trail. Traffic control signs and markings should be used to
alert users of intersections, design exceptions, and regulatory requirements. Traffic control
devices are also needed to alert motorists at trail crossings. Traffic control devices should
conform with the Minnesota Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices.
Lighting should be provided at trail/roadway intersections and trailhead parking lots.
Trailhead Facilities
Within the public park land along the trail corridor, trailhead facilities will be provided.
These facilities could include the following items:
• Rest Rooms
UI
® o 0
2' 8' (EXISTING TRAIL) 2'
SH. 10' MIN.(NEW TRAIL SH.
I I `" I ® - I
BITUMINOUS
1 �j�i
1 1 �/./
i
�� �
\�2 .
\ �M
q
1O 8' MINIMUM WIDTH IF EXISTING TRAIL IS USED.
10' MINIMUM WIDTH FOR NEW CONSTRUCTION.
12' OR WIDER MAY BE NEEDED TO ACCOMADATE
ALL USE.
O2 2' MINIMUM BOULEVARD WIDTH TO PROVIDE SPACE
FOR SIGNS AND POSTS. 5' MINIMUM WIDTH IS
DESIRABLE FOR NEW CONSTRUCTION AND CLEAR
ZONE TO FIXED OBJECTS. GENERALLY SHOULDER
IS TURF. CRUSHED ROCK MAY BE USED IF
HEAVY USE OF SHOULDER IS EXPERIENCED.
O3 6' MINIMUM BOULEVARD WIDTH IS DESIRABLE FOR
NEW CONSTRUCTION TO PROVIDE SPACE FOR SIGNS,
POLES AND SNOW STORAGE.
® LONGITUDINAL SLOPE SHOULD NOT EXCEED 5�,
IF FEASIBLE. TYPICAL CROSS SLOPE IS 2�.
NORTH URBAN REGIONAL TRAIL
DAKOTA COUNTY, MINNESOTA
DESIGN CRITERIA
Bartoa-Aschman Associates, Inc.
. i�� na,a .... t. sw. sso wM.w�.. �� awe
Po�aa
Figure 4
Development Plan:
• About 1,400 feet of new trail with rest stops must be constructed along the south and
east sides of Lilydale Road behind the guard rail. Retaining wall is necessary at some
locations.
• Trail signing and markings should be installed.
• Trail head facilities may be provided at Lilydale-Harriet Island regional park in
conjunction with the Big Rivers Trail.
10
Deout ipfion:
Valley Park is a city park adjacent to Interstate 35E. At Marie Avenue just east of I-35E,
Valley Park has a parking lot, picnic shelter, portable toilet, tennis courts, and playground.
An existing eight -foot wide bituminous trail exists in Valley Park. This trail runs from
Lilydale Road south to the intersection of TH 110 and Dodd Road. This trail was built by
and is currently maintained by the City of Mendota Heights, and could serve as the regional
trail.
Physical Features:
Topography of this segment is characterized by rolling Terrain with mixed hardwood forest
and wetlands in the low areas. The native landscape has been partially disturbed by I-35E,
Marie Avenue and adjacent neighborhood park facilities, and a high voltage power line
corridor that exists within the park.
Native soils identified in the "Survey of Dakota County" are generally characterized as loam
or sandy loam within the upland areas and silt loam or muck within the drainage ways and
upland depressions. The loam and sandy loam soils are moderately well drained to
excessively well drained. The silt loam and muck soils are poorly. drained. Soils disturbed by
development can not be generally characterized.
Land Use:
Area land use bordering Valley Park is generally residential. Along TH 110 at the south
edge of the park commercial uses exist. Commercial use at TH 110 and Dodd Road includes
fast food restaurants, convenience stores, and strip retail.
Opportunities and Constraints:
Valley Park facilities will be available to trail users, but may need to be expanded to
accommodate both trail users and city residents.
An underpass exists where the trail crosses Marie Avenue.
The existing trail has some short segments with longitudinal slopes exceeding five percent.
These segments should be reconstructed with flatter slopes.
The existing eight -foot trail needs to be widened in the future to accommodate all users.
Development Plan:
• About 1,600 feet of the existing trail should be reconstructed to provide flatter slopes
and repair cracked pavement..
• Trail signing and markings should be installed.
11
GMQment 3mmTH 110
Description:
This segment is located along the north side of TH 110 from Dodd Road to Charlton. From
Dodd Road to about one -quarter mile east, vacant land exists within the TH 110 right-of-
way. There should be adequate space to locate the trail along TH 110 east of Dodd Road if
Mn/DOT does not plan to use the right -of --way. Further east where the TH 110 frontage road
is located immediately north of TH 110, the trail may be located between the frontage road
and westbound TH 110 ,if a design acceptable to Mn/DOT can be developed.
An alternate location would be along the north side of the frontage road. Construction along
the north side of the frontage road would impact the front yards of approximately 13 homes.
Physical Features:
Topography of this segment is characterized by rolling terrain and suburban development.
The native landscape has been modified by construction of highways and buildings.
Native soils identified in the "Survey of Dakota County" are generally characterized as loam
or sandy loam within the upland areas and silt loam within the drainage ways and upland
depressions. The loam and sandy loam soils are moderately well drained to excessively well
drained. The silt loam is generally poorly drained. Most of the soils along this segment of
the corridor have been disturbed by development and can not be generally characterized.
Land Use:
Area land use along the north side of TH 110 is generally residential. Commercial use at
TH 110 and Dodd Road includes fast food restaurants, convenience stores, and strip retail.
Opportunities and Constraints:
The trail will cross Dodd Road on the north side of TH 110 at an existing signalized
intersections with cross walks.
The trail will provide improved access to Valley Park.
Construction of the trail along the south side of the TH 110 frontage road will require filling
the ditch and installation of storm sewer, construction of fence and Mn/DOT approval of the
design. Shifting the frontage slightly north and addition of curb along the south side should
be considered during design development.
Single-family residential homes exist along the north side of the TH 110 frontage road. If
located on the north side of the frontage road, the proposed trail corridor would impact the
front yards of 13 homes. About 35 feet of right-of4ay exists north of the edge of the frontage
road. This width is adequate for trail construction, but clearing of vegetation and grading is
necessary to construct the trail. Temporary easements may be needed, so driveways and yards
13
Development Plan:
• About 3,800 feet of new trail must be constructed within the Olivia I. Dodge Property.
• Acquire three -acre parcel adjacent to the Olivia I. Dodge Property. Acquire from the
Dodge Nature Center.
• Trail signing and markings should be installed. Additional regulatory signage may be
required within the Olivia I. Dodge Property to facilitate trail user activities within
this segment of the trail.
• Privacy fencing or landscaping may be required along the utility easement section to
buffer the trail from the adjacent homes.
• Drainage swales within the Olivia L Dodge Property may require installation of
culverts under the trail to facilitate drainage requirements.
megment 5--Charlton Street
Description:
This segment involves construction of a new trail along Charlton Street in West St. Paul.
This segment would connect the Olivia I. Dodge segment to Garlough Park. The trail would
cross Charlton Street and Marie Avenue.
Physical Features:
Topography of this segment is characterized by gently rolling terrain aad suburban
development. The native landscape has been modified by construction of roads and buildings.
The Dodge Nature Center property along the north side, of Marie Avenue is a large
undeveloped parcel that previously was farmed and has been converted to open space for
interpretive use.
Native soils identified in the "Survey of Dakota County" are generally characterized sandy
loam within the upland areas. The sandy loam soils are well drained. Most of the soils
along this segment of the corridor have been disturbed by development and can not be
generally characterized.
Land Use:
Area land use along the south side of Marie Avenue is residential. Open space exists within
the private Dodge Nature Center along the north side of Marie Avenue. Garlough Park is
located along the east side of Charlton Street north of Marie Avenue in West St. Paul.
Opportunities and Constraints:
The privately owned Dodge Nature Center is located along much of the north side of Marie
Avenue.
The proposed trail would not cross any driveways along Chariton Street.
The trail would cross Charlton Street, and Marie Avenue at intersections controlled by stop
signs.
Existing six-foot walk along Charlton Street north to Garlough Elementary School would
need to be widened or replaced to function as the trail. At the back of the existing sidewalk,
there is a steep embankment that would require clearing and a wall to widen the walk away
from the street.
17
Description:
This segment consists of existing walk and trail that connects the Charlton Street segment
with Marthaler Park near the West St. Paul City Hall on Wentworth Avenue. Within
Garlough and Marthaler city parks there is existing trail segments.
Physical Features:
Topography of this segment is characterized by rolling terrain and suburban development.
Native landscape exists within Garlough and Marthaler Parks, and consists of mixed
hardwood forest wetlands in low areas and park open space.
Native soils identified in the "Survey of Dakota County" are generally characterized as sandy
loam within the upland areas and silt loam within the upland depressions. The sandy loam
soils are well drained. The silt loam is poorly drained. A large area of Garlough Park
consists of poorly drained soils. Soils disturbed by development can not be generally
characterized.
Land Use:
Area land use along bordering Garlough and Marthaler Park is generally residential. Open
space exists within the parks. The intersection of Wentworth Avenue and Humboldt Avenue
is located at the northeast comer of Marthaler Park. Land use along Wentworth Avenue is
mixed commercial and residential.
Opportunities and Constraints:
From Garlough Elementary School, there is an existing eight -foot trail that passes through a
wooded area of Garlough Park, and connects w Kraft Road.
The existing trail crosses Kraft Road at a mid -block location and connects witha trail
through Marthaler Park. The existing eight -foot trail passes through a wooded area of
Marthaler Park and connects with the parking lot and picnic shelter in Marthaler Park.
Existing facilities in Marthaler Park will be available to trail users. New facilities maybe
requires to meet the needs of trail users.
A new trail
needs to be developed from the
Marthaler Park
parking lot to the intersection of
Wentworth
Avenue and Humboldt Avenue
at the northeast
comer of the park.
19
Development Plan:
• Existing eight -foot wide trail in Garlough and Marthaler Park needs to be widened in
the future to accommodate all users.
• Some short segments of existing trail should be reconstructed to flatten slopes.
• Trail signing and markings should be installed.
• About 1,000 feet of new trail must be constructed in Marthaler Park to connect with
Wentworth Avenue.
• Trail head facilities in Marthaler Park may need to be improved.
Seffm+ent 7»Wentworth Avenue (CR 8)
Description:
This segment consists of existing eight -foot trail along the north side of Wentworth Avenue
from Humboldt Avenue east to Oakdale Avenue.
Physical Features:
Topography of this segment is characterized by rolling terrain and suburban commercial
development. The native landscape has been modified by construction of roadways and
buildings.
Native soils identified in the "Survey of Dakota County" are generally characterized as sandy
loam within the upland areas and silt loam within the upland depressions and drainage
ways. The sandy loam soils are well drained. The silt loam is generally poorly drained.
Most of the soils along this segment of the corridor have been disturbed by development and
can not be generally characterized.
Land Use:
Area land use along Wentworth Avenue consists of a mix of commercial uses. West St. Paul
City Ball and the Dakota County Northern Service Center are located at Humboldt Avenue.
A variety of retail businesses exist near the Robert Street intersection including auto
services, restaurants, strip retail, and discount department stores. The Dakota County
Wentworth Library is located east of Robert Street along with a single family residences,
medical offices, and a photo business.
Opportunities and Constraints:
There is existing eight -foot wide trail along the north side of Wentworth Avenue.
This trail segment provides access to the Dakota County Northern Service Center, the
Robert Street commercial area, the Wentworth Library, and the West St. Paul Sports
Center.
Development Plan:
• In the future, existing eight -foot trail along Oakdale Avenue may need to be widened
to accommodate all users.
• About 1,200 feet of the existing six-foot trail along the east side of Oakdale must be
widened to eight feet. This may require right -of --way acquisition from some
properties.
• Trail signing and markings should be installed.
• Screening may be required along residential yards (vegetation and/or low walls).
23
Opportunities and Constraints:
The route along the bottom of Simon's Ravine requires moderate grading, drainage
considerations, and stabilization embankment requirements.
A portion of the route along the ravine may require a grade of about.10 percent. Flat rest
stops should be provided along this segment at about 200400t intervals. This segment will
not be suitable for wheel chairs or skaters. The route within the ravine will require the need
for a trail crossing at 19th Avenue. Opportunities exist for trail users to experience a unique
natural setting.
At the location where Simon's Ravine crosses Concord Street, homes were removed due to
flooding concerns. A large open space exists that could be used to construct trailhead
facilities.
A connection to the Northern Dakota County Regional Trail along the riverfront could be
provided by crossing Concord Street and the railroad tracks. Concord Street has average
daily traffic of about 9,000 to 10,000 vehicles and good sight distance, so a mid -block cross-
walk could be considered. The railroad crossing is not part of this plan and will be included
with the riverfront regional trail.
Development Plan:
• About 5,200 feet of new trail must to be constructed.
• The segment near the bottom of Simon's Ravine will require some retaining walls and
a culvert or bridge to cross under 19th Avenue.
• Culvert(s) or pedestrian bridge(s) may be required along segments of the ravine
depending upon the trail alignment.
4 A pedestrian crossing of TH 56 should be provided.
Q
6. IMPLEMENTATION ISSUES
Major issues resulting from development of the trail and possible solutions are summarized
below:
• Rugged topography at each end of the trail presents challenging conditions for trail
construction and trail users. Long and relatively steep grades are necessary to
connect with the regional trails along the Mississippi River.
Proper signing should be used to warn trail users of steep grades. Signs should limit
the use of these segments to bicycles and pedestrians. Flat rest stops will be
provided at approximately 200-foot intervals. Trailhead facilities should be provided
at each end of these segments.
• Minimal impacts to private property will result from construction of the trail. The
preferred corridor was selected because it minimizes the number of front yards
disturbed by the trail. For yards that are impacted vegetative screening and low
retaining walls will be provided to reduce impacts.
• Trail operation and maintenance will require efforts from both the cities and Dakota
County. Cooperative agreements will be developed to clearly define operation and
maintenance responsibilities.
• Project phasing is an important consideration. Segments of the trail and trailhead
facilities will be developed as funding becomes available. Segments should first be
developed to link the existing trail segments.
Initial development will consist of link ezasting eight -foot wide trail segments.
Depending on the amount and type of use experienced, the trail may need to be
widened in the future to safely accommodate all users.
Generally, the trail will be located within public parks and public right -of --way, with the
exception of the Olivia I. Dodge Property segment. Ownership of the land where the trail is
located could remain with the public agency that currently controls the right -of --way or
property. An agreement and acquisition of property will be necessary for the Olivia I. Dodge
Property segment. Agreements between Dakota County and the municipalities will also be
needed to create an understanding of the trail's ownership, maintenance, and operation
responsibilities.
27
Municipalities where the trail is located will enter into.cooperative agreements regarding
construction, operation and maintenance of the trail. To the extent identified within the
cooperative agreements, public services will be required to operate and maintain the trail.
The trail is located along and crosses public roadways controlled by the municipalities.
Dakota County
Dakota County will enter into cooperative agreements regarding construction, operation and
maintenance of the trail. To the extent identified within the cooperative agreements, public
services will be required to operate and maintain the trail.
Dakota County Highway Department is responsible for segments of roadway along which the
trail is located and crosses.
MnLl2QT
The proposed trail corridor is located along Trunk Highway 110 within Mn/DOT right-of-
way, and will cross TH 56. Mn/DOT approval is required for these portions of the trail.
MetroWlitan Council
The Metropolitan Council is responsible for administering the major funding source for the
proposed trail. The master development plan must conform with Metropolitan Council
requirements, and must be approved by the Council.
9. CITIZEN PARTICIPATION
Public participation is development of this plan occurs through a variety of public meetings
held to provide information and hear comments on the proposed North Urban Regional Trail.
Anticipated public meetings are listed below:
• Lilydale City Council Meeting
• Mendota Heights City Council Meeting
• West St. Paul City Council Meeting
• South St. Paul City Council Meeting
• Dakota County Board Meeting
• Public Information Meeting on this document
10. PUBLIC AWARENESS
Consistent with other Dakota County Regional Parks, the County will promote public
awazeness of the North Urban Regional Trail through various forms of media information
29
SEGMENT 1
LILYDALE ROAD
PRELIMINARY
CONSTRUCTION
JUNE 17,1994
COST ESTIMATE
QUANTITY
NEW 10'
TRAIL 1
L.F.
1, 400
30.00
42,060
RETAINING WALL
<10' w FENCE
L.F.
300
100,00
30,000
SIGNING k MARKINGS •
L.S.
1
2000.00
2,000
S
IMATING CONTINGENCY - 2
2ff
14, 800
TOTAL ESTIMATED CONSTRUCTION
COST
$880800
$22,200
R
SEGMENT 2
VALLEY PARK
PRELIMINARY
CONSTRUCTION
JUNE 17,1994
COST ESTIMATE
i
NEW 10' TRAIL
1
L.F.
1, 600
30.00
48,000
SIGNING h MARKINGS
L.S.
1
2000400
2, 000
ES
IMATING CONTINGENCY - 207.
2
10000
TOTAL ESTIMATED
CONSTRUCTION
COST
11
$60 r 000
O
$15,000
Eslimale bored on conceptual pMn.
Prajetl Adminisfrolion, design fees, engineering dr lestinq services, permits, elc.
am by 9snao cc man Asacc: as. Ine.
1
SEGMENT 6
GARLOUGH PARK / MARTHALER
PARK
PRELIMINARY CONSTRUCTION COST
JUNE 17, 1"4
REVISED FEBRUARY 22,1996
ESTIMATE
NEW 10'TRAIL (1)
L.F.
1100
$30
$33.000
SIGNING & MARKINGS
L.S.
1
$2.000
$2.000
RETAINING WALL p1(T)
L.F.
200
$200
$40.000
ESTIMATING CONTINGENCY - 20% (2)
$15.000
TOTAL ESTIMATED CONSTRUCTION COST
$909000
NON -CONSTRUCTION COSTS - 25% (3)
SY2400
S112S00
1 ngaumed typical trail construction cost with minor grading. DOES NOT INCLUDE TRAIL HEAD FACII
2) Estimele basal on conceptual plan.
3) Project Adminislralion, design tees, engineering 8lesting aervkes, permits, ate • esaumed to ha 25X
SEGMENT 9
THOMPSON COUNTY PARK
PRELIMINARY
CONSTRUCTION COST
JUNE17,1994
ESTIMATE
:..... .
y.
NEW
10'TRAIL
(1)
L.F.
1400
$30
WOOD
TH3-PEDESTRIAN BRIDGE
S.F.
3000
$120
$360,000
SIGNING
& MARKINGS
LS.
1
$2.000
I52
000
ESTIMATING
CONTINGENCY - 20% (2)
Ste•
TOTAL
ESTIMATED
CONSTRUCTION
COST
$48000
NON
-CONSTRUCTION COSTS
- 25% (3)
$121.200
SEGMENT 10
KAPOSIA PARK / SIMON'S RAVINE
PRELIMINARY CONSTRUCTION COST ESTIMATE
JUNE17,1994
REVISED FEBRUARY 1.1996
3 sqqq r "55 ^F'F. s,
UNM
R
.
MAT
"WIIF
s K
4diP+MITYz
al
k 3 f�°�%'
PRtC��4 ...
`"5,�5 �yH H
NO .<.T.
NEW
19TRAIL
(1)
L.F.
6200
$30
$156.ODO
SIGNING
& MARKINGS
L.S.
1
$2.000
S2,DOO
STORM
SEWER
L.F.
500
S30
S15.ODD
RETAINING WALL (d0')
L.F.
1000
$100
$1000000
PED. BRIDGE
S.F.
120D
$120
$144,OD0
ESTIMATING
CONTINGENCY
- 20% (2)
S148.1100
TOTAL
ESTIMATED
CONSTRUCTION COST
$496,400
NON -CONSTRUCTION
COSTS IF 25% (3)
$124.600
s:..
5623,000
1) Assumed rypiw hail comlruetion cod with minor grading. DOES NOT INCLUDE TRAIL HEAD FACILITIES OR R.O.W.
2) Fslimda bawd on concapluel pion.
3) Project Administration, design loos, apinwrinp & tasting sW*8$, permits, do - assumed to be 25%
PeeEared bx Barton-Aschmon Assadatm In&
5.3
DAKOTA COUNTY
PHYSICAL DEVELOPMENT CObII�ITITEE OF THE WHOLE
REQUEST FOR COMIKTITEE REVIEW
DIVISION: PHYSICAL DEVELOPMENT
DEPARTMENT: Office of Planning
Contact Person: Jack Ditmore
Telephone Number: 891-7030
Prepared By: John Forrest\Chaatell
Public Comment:
ITEM: NORTH URBAN TRAIL UPDATE
MEETING DATE:
EXPENDITURE:
Budgeted:
Non -Budgeted:
Kadin Other Funding:
N/A.
Informational: X
X
At the June 23, 1993 meeting, the Physical Development Board Committee
recommended that 'the County Board direct staff to begin the development
of plans for an east -west connection between the Northwest (Soo Line
Corridor) and the Northeast (Mississippi Riverfront) Regional Trail
segments in Dakota County. The master plan for this connection is to be
completed in June 1994.
County staff has been meeting with the consultant retained for this
roject (Barton-Aschman, Associates) and staff members from the affected
local units of government to discuss optional approaches to an east -west
trail connection. The potential trail has been divided into four
segments -- Lilydale to Charlton Street, Charlton to Livingston Street,
Livingston to Trunk Highway 3, and Trunk Highway 3 to Concord Street --
for analysis. From three to six options for routing a trail in each
segment are under study. (See Attachment l.)
The alternatives were shared with City staff on Wednesday, March 9. City
staff will be taking the alternative trail routes to their city parks
commissions for further discussion and advice to the County and its
consultant. These comments will be considered in the draft plan.
A draft of the "Master Plan for the North Urban Trail" is expected to be
complete in late May. After County Board approval, the draft plan can be
released for public review in a June or July timeframe.
Ne action is recuired on this item.
Louis J. Breimhurst, Director
PHYSICAL DEVELOPMENT DIVISION
Jack Ditmore, Deputy Director
PHYSICAL DEVELOPMENT DIVISION
$randt
COUNTY
n:jfa3-22
ou000s
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
DAKOTA COUNTY, MINNESOTA
Motion by Commissioner Maher
RESOLUTION NO. 93-579
Seconded by Commissioner_._ Turner
WHEREAS, an east -west trail connection in northern Dakota County is
identified on Metropolitan Council Concept Maps and in the Master Plan for
South St. Paul Riverfront and Regional Trail Concept; and
WHEREAS, an east -west
trail
linkage
between the two established regional
trail corridor segments
is an
important
and necessary connection; and
WHEREAS, the Dakota County Board of Commissioners finds that planning for 'the
development of an east -west connection between the Northwest (Soo Line
Cooridor) and the Northeast (Mississippi Riverfront) regional trail segments
in Dakota County should begin immediately; and
WHEREAS, the immediate development of an east -west connection between the
regional trail segments in Dakota County was not anticipated in the 1993
budget of the Physical Development Division/Office of Planning and budgeted
resources are fully allocated in 1993.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Dakota County Board of Commissioners
directs that staff immediately begin_ development of a plan for zn east -west
trail connection between the Northwest (Soo Line Cooridor) and the Northeast
C' ,sissippi Riverfront) Trails in Dakota County, with completion of the plan
1993; and
3E IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That a budget amendment to the 1993 Physical
development Division/Office of Planning budget be authorized in the amount of
a25,000, with the funds to come from the Parks Reserve Fund balance; and
YES
Harris
X
Maher
X
8ataglia
X
Richards
X
Turner
Z
Jensen
Z
Loeding
State of
Minnesota
County
of Dakota
Harris
Maher
8ataglia
Richards
turner
Jensen
Loeding
NO
1. Joan L. Kendall. Clerk to the Board of the County of Dakou. Stan of \Lnnesota. do hrreoc ceni;'y thaz 1 have compared toe
foregoing copy of a resolution with the original minutes of the proceedings of the Board of Countc Commissioners. Dakota County.
Minnesota, at char session held on the 29th
day of June 15 now on 61e in the Count:
Administration Department, and have found the same to be a true
and correct copy thereof.
Witness my hand and official seal of Dakota Countv this v day of ���
September 9, 1994
Dakota County Office of Planning
NORT Comments
14955 Galaxie AVe.
Apple Valley, MN 55124-8579
To Whom It May Concern:
The Dakota County Board has apparently gone off the deep end once again
in believing we taxpayers must have and pay for another boondoggle, aka
"North Urban Regional Trail".
I
have some
questions
that
should
be
read aloud
at
the
hearing on September
222
1994 with
request
that
answers
be
given to
each
at
the meeting.
r 1 - Who on the Board proposed this trail?
r 2 - How much did you pay the consultants for this plan?
3 - Why do you hire consultants when you have Director,
Deputy Director and numerous others in the planning
department? Are they not capable?
;i 4 - Why does the description and notice of hearing containing
well over 1000 words describing the project but only 11
words relating to costs to build?
'• 5 - What" will be the annual cost in maintaining this blacktop
path, i.e.- snow plowing, weeding, sweeping, patrolling,
patching, etc.? Black top deter orates from extremes in
weather alone and requires regu;ar sealing and re -surfacing.
# 6 - What are the "estimated" usage of such a path which meanders
in and out of extremely high density automobile traffic? "
7 - Where will the monies come from to pay for this fiasco? Please
do not answer "...federal or state grants, etc." since those
"grants" are our tax dollars.
Each Commissioner who pushed this idea should be made to walk the entire "trail"
in order to actually see the stupidity of the project.The Commission should kno�•:
country is 4 trillion dollars in debt, much of it caused by politicians and
bureaucrates who spend monies that do not exist on unnecessary, unplanned and
just plain dumb projects.
Taxpayers are
no concept of
fed up
fiscal
with wacky
responsibilities.
ideas from politicians
"Politicians
and
are the
bureaucrztes who hat:e
san2a11 over.
They promise
to build
a bridge
where there is no river."
(N.
Khrushchev)
Ms. Chantell Kadin
August 2, 1994
Page two
In addition to the discussion that evening, the staff memorandum
prepared for the City Council meeting included a number of issues
that the Parks and Recreation Commission discussed at their meeting
on July 12, 1994 or are the results of staff meetings. This
includes:
1. A review of a fence or concrete barrier between the trail and
Highway 110.
2. The possibility of a safer, more adequate, landing approach for
the Valley Park trail as it approaches Dodd Road.
3. Maintenance agreements following construction and costs for
lighting, telephones and trail widening.
4. Upgrading the Marie Avenue underpass and the possibility of an
overpass for Highway 110 near its intersection with TH149.
Again, thank you for the presentation to City Council on the draft
plan. Your cooperation and assistance have enabled the City to
focus on the issues that may arise with this project and our City
Council is generally supportive. It is our understanding that the
Dakota County Board of Commissioners will consider the draft plan
and possibly schedule public hearings in September.
-Please keep us informed of any progress on the Draft Plan for the
North IIrban Trail. In the meantime, if you desire any
clarification, or further information, please contact me as soon as
possible.
Sincerely,
Kevin Batchelder
Administrative Assistant
CC:
John Forrest, Dakota County
Tcu. ;, «ell, %i�y'Adnunistrator
Guy Kullander, Engineering Technician
CITY OF WEST ST. PAUL
1616 HUMBOIDT AVE., WEST ST. PAUL, MN 551183972
ADMINISTRATION 552-0100
POLICE AND FIRE 552-0200
EMERGENCY 911 � TDDJt 552.4222
June 30, t994
Mr. John Forrest
Division of Physical Development
Dakota County
14955 Galaxie Avenue
Apple Valley, MN 55124
Dear Mr. Forrest,
Thank you for the opportunity to review the proposed plans for the North Urban Re��ional
Trail. Our written comments essentially echo our verbal ones: 1�'e would suggest that the
existing trails be�accepted into the system at their current widths. Our citizens would not favor
any tree removals along our park trails; we doubt that the volume of travel will require such
work. Likewise, the residents along Oakdale were extremely sensitive about the width of the
trail on that narrow ritht-of-way.
That said, the proposed trail links should be very beneficial for our citizens, and the
County staff is to be commended to the Board for their active effort to obtain re��ional fundin��
for the proposed work.
WPC:dkm
Yours very truly,
William P. Craia!
City Manaecr
AN EOUAL OPPORTUNITYlAFFIRMATIVE ACTION EMPLOYER
Ms. Chantell Kadin
Page Two
April 21, 1994
The City of Mendota Heights appreciates the opportunity to provide
input and desires to be kept informed on any .:decisions or
directions that the County is taking with the North. Urban Trail and
its location. We would especially appreciate an opportunity to
review and comment on the draft plan that is being prepared. Thank
you for your time and consideration. .
Sincerely,
bit000tt bat.,
Revin Batchelder
Administrative Assistant
cc: Bill Craig, City of west St. Paul
Randee Nelson, City of South St. Paul
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CITY OF
SOUTH ST. PAU1
December2l, 1993
Mr. lack Ditmore
Deputy Director
PhyscalDevelopment Division
14955 Galaxie A venue
App/ Valley, MN 5312448579
Dear Mr. Ditmore.
125 THIRD AVENUE NORTH
SOUTH ST, PAUI, MN 55075-2097
L „q �
YSi0A! n E 11 ADhL
On behalfoftheCityofSouth St. Paul, please accept thisletterasoursupport oftheDakota
County Board's commitment to develop a east -west trail connection to adjoin the South St.
PaulsegmentoflheNorthernDakota CountyRegionalTmil. WetrulyapnrwatetheDakota
County Board of Commissioners' decision in designating this project as a priority for !be
citizens of the northeast section ofDakota County.
Wecontinue to appreciate the efforts oftheDakota CountyBoardandilsstall'in assistingour
City to acquire and develop a regional trail along the Mississippi River in South St. Paul.
Sincerely,
Randee L. Nelson
Director ofParks and Recreation
RLN.LTR:dj
cc
: Mayor Kathleen Gaylord
Doug Reeder, City Adminis[rator
Don Maher, Dakota County Commissioner
City of
.,..., Mendota Heights
October 239 1995
Mr. Brandt Richardson, County Administrator
Dakota County Administration
1590 West Highway 55
Hastings, MN 55033-2372
Dear Mr. Richardson:
On October 17, 1995, the City Council of Mendota Heights adopted Resolution No. 95-56, A
RESOLUTION OF RM NT REGARDING THE MASTER PLAN FOR THE NORTH
URBAN REGIONAL TRAIL. The City Council has asked me to forward a copy of this
resolution to your office so that the Dakota County Board of Commissioners can be made
aware of the intent of the City of Mendota Heights, especially in regards to the use of Valley
Park as part of the North Urban Regional Trail. (Please see enclosed resolution.)
]n February of 1995, the City of Mendota Heights had adopted Resolution No. 95-10 in
general support of the North Urban Regional Trail, with the condition that no physical changes
or improvements be made to the existing trail in Valley Park. However, the Master Plan
adopted by the Dakota County Board of Commissioners indicated that a possible parallel trail
and other improvements were planned for Valley Park. Therefore, the City of Mendota
Heights has gone on record stating its intent for the future of the Valley Park trail in the
enclosed resolution.
Would you please see that your Board is made aware of our City Council's resolution
regarding the North Urban Regional Trail. Should you have any questions, or wncerns,
please contact me at 4524850.
Sincerely,
Kevin Batchelder
Administrative Assistant
ce: Patrice Bataglia, County Commissioner
Tom Lawell, City Administrator
1101 Victoria Curve •hiendota Heights, MN • 55118 452.1850
• I 1 • :I
Air 4
RESOLUTION NO. 95- to
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Mendota Heights and its Parks and
Recreation Commission have assisted the Dakota County Physical Development Division in its
planning process for the North Urban Regional Trail; and
of h- North Urban Regional Trail; and
WHEREAS, Dakota County has requested the official position of the City of Mendota
Heights with respect to the North Urban Regional Trail Master Plan.
NOW THEREFORE BE TT HEREBY RESOLVID by the City Council of the City
of Mendota Heights that there is general support of the North Urban Regional Trail Master Plan
provided that there are no physical changes or improvements to Valley Park Trail and provided
that the location of the trail along Highway 110 Frontage Road be on the south side of the
Frontage Road.
Adopted by the City Council of the City of Mendota Heights this 21st day of February, 1995.
ATTEST:
thlcen M. Swanson, City Clerk
• i
Charles E. Mertensotto, Mayor
United States Department of the Interior�r ,
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE
Mississippi National River and Recreation Area (
175 Fifth Street East, Suite 418, Box 41 I MAR 1�ry
79�
St. Paul, Minnesota 55101-2901
IN REPLY REFER TO:
March 15, 1996
Dear River Enthusiast,
We appreciate your participation in preparing the attached Proposal for Partnership
between the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area and the Science Museum
of Minnesota. The Mississippi River Coordinating Commission will consider this
proposal at their meeting on April 1 at 6:30 p.m, in the Metropolitan Council Chambers.
We invite you to attend.
The Metropolitan Council building is located at 230 East 5th Street in St. Paul. You
should use the entrance on the south side of the building. Parking is provided in the
ramp south of the building.
Sincerely,
(i JoAnn Kyral
Superintendent
Science Museum of Minnesota Mississippi National River and Recreation Area
National Park Service
Proposal of Partnership
15 March91996
1 Vision
To bring together the Science Museum of Minnesota (SMM) and the Mississippi
National River and Recreation Area (MNRRA) in a partnership that enhances the power
A both to interpret the entire Mississippi River and its watershed, particularly the stretch
in the Twin Cities metropolitan area.
The Science Museum of Minnesota brings:
• a great city location;
• a large established general audience;
• a research focus on riverine systems;
• first -quality exhibit development skills;
• a rich array of camps and classes serving schools and families; and
• the ability to raise funds from private sources.
The Mississippi National River and Recreation Area brings:
• a great river -side location adjacent to the Lilydale flood plain forest;
• standing connections to interpretive sites along 72 miles of the river plus three other
units of the National Park System along the Mississippi (Effigy Mounds National
Monument, Jefferson National Expansion Memorial and National Historic Site, Jean
Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve);
• the ability to raise funding from park service sources;
• a potential audience of adults and families interested in natural and cultural history
and outdoor recreation; and
• its connection to the National Park Service with its world-wide reputation for quality
educational programs & visitor experiences.
These two organizations propose to form a partnership to create for the public a unique
facility focusing on the Mississippi River featuring:
• the only national center dedicated to interpreting the Mississippi River;
• a one -stop information center for planning trips to places of interest along the
Mississippi, to national parks, and to related sites world-wide;
• a rich and wonderful exhibition gallery on the history, ecology, and economics of the
Mississippi River and Watershed;
• a shared, in -town, riverside, group programming center and trailhead;
• connections with organizations and individuals throughout the United states that
focus on the Mississippi River and its watershed;
• increased political and financial potential for developing outdoor exhibits and
programming along the river (for instance, River Park); and
• enhanced programming to serve families and other diverse audiences.
Science Museum of Minnesota Mississippi National River & Recreation Area
Proposal of Partnership page 3
Visitors will be able to choose from these resources within the Center to gather
information about the Mississippi River and National Parks:
Orientation This will be the starting point for visitors who want to learn about the
Mississippi River. The range of experiences inside the Science Museum —the
Mississippi River Exhibition Gallery, special programs and performances, and the Center
itself —will be promoted. Also highlighted will be an orientation to MNRRA and
educational experiences about the river. Models will show the three rivers in the metro
area and the entire Mississippi River watershed. Interactive stations will provide
information about Mississippi River attractions and programs and about National Park
areas. Educational experiences will be highlighted.
Trip Planning A full range of materials will provide information for those planning a
trip through the watershed, to one or several units of the National Park System, or to other
areas with a similar focus world-wide. Visitors will be able to send an electronic inquiry
to hundreds of sources of information. National Park Rangers will help visitors gather
the resources they need to plan exciting adventures. Students can collect resources in this
area to prepare reports on the Mississippi and National Parks.
Take-home Materials Books will reveal the many aspects of the Mississippi and the
diversity of the National Park System. Maps will guide the adventurer by foot,
automobile, or watercraft. Videos and software will bring possibilities to life. Brochures
from National Park areas, attractions, and river towns will provide site -specific details.
Many of these materials will be provided free of charge; others will be available for
purchase.
Guest Appearances Each week, the spotlight shines on a different river attraction,
educational program, park, or resource. Experts on the subject give programs in the
Center, the Mississippi River Exhibition Gallery, or elsewhere in the museum. Associated
with these programs are special exhibits, audiovisual presentations, and collections of
resource materials. This area will tap expertise from across the country and, occasionally,
from elsewhere in the world.
Twenty-first Century Library This resource area will focus on providing access to
information about current river and park issues using the best technology available. It
will highlight information for citizens wishing to become involved in caring for the river.
Much of this information will also be placed on the World Wide Web. Students will be
able to collect specific, up-to-the-minute data for in-depth study of the Mississippi and
National Park System sites. They will also be able to communicate electronically with
professionals managing these resources.
Resource Science Update This area will highlight current river and park research and
provide a listing of opportunities for youth and adult science learning.
In summary, the Mississippi River National Center will be a dynamic place that provides
up-to-date information using technology designed to serve the individual needs of
visitors. As compared to more traditional National Park Service visitor centers, the
Center will provide a more integrated, service -oriented approach. Up to date information
technology will serve visitors' individual needs. Each visit to the Center will be an
immersion in the sights and sounds of the magnificent Mississippi River and our
cherished National Parks.
Science Museum of Minnesota Mississippi National River & Recreation Area
Proposal of Partnership page 5
• The character of the Mississippi River in the future largely will be the result of human
decision making.
Exhibition Location and Character
The exhibition will be located in the 5,000 square foot gallery that forms the entrance to
the fee area of the Science Museum of Minnesota. This gallery connects to a large
outdoor terrace that overlooks the river and river valley. A few exhibit components will
be located in free areas such as on the Kellogg Boulevard River Overlook and within
River Park, a new public area located on the river bank in front of the new Science
Museum building.
The exhibition is planned to combine a high percentage of interactive components (that
encourage visitors to learn actively through demonstration of phenomena and testing
theories) within a rich environment of objects, photographs, and human stories. Over the
ten-year lifespan of the exhibition, MNRRA and the Science Museum will implement
regular changes to keep the exhibition content current with ongoing research on the
Mississippi River and to provide new experiences for returning visitors.
Key Concepts and Questions
The key concepts and questions will expand on the project themes. They will be used to
identify and delineate the particular exhibit components and programs that will comprise
the Mississippi River Exhibition Gallery.
1. What Is The Mississippi River?
— Where Did the River Come From? How long has the Mississippi River existed?
What were the geologic processes that brought it and its watershed about? How do
Native Americans explain the origins and existence of the river? How has the river
changed from pre -glacial to glacial to post -glacial times? Will there always be a
Mississippi River?
Peoples of the Great River Archaeologists have found evidence of human occupancy
along the Mississippi River going back at least 12,000 years. What is it about the
Mississippi that has made it an attraction for human endeavors since people first set foot
in North America? From Cahokia of 1100 AD to Minneapolis/Saint Paul of today, why
do major cities tend to be found adjacent to waterways? How did peoples of the past use
the Mississippi River and how do these activities contrast and compare to how we use the
river today?
Mississippi River in Our Hearts and Minds The Mississippi River is the subject of a
remarkable quantity of music, literature, art, and crafts. It is also an international icon.
Why is the Mississippi River known around the world? Why does this river exert such a
strong effect on the human imagination? What do these outpourings of human creativity
reveal about what we think and feel about the river?
The Working River The present-day Mississippi River is a significant locus for human
enterprise in the Upper Midwest. From Minneapolis to St Louis, thousands of barge tows
every year ply their way along the nine -foot navigation channel. How does the river work
as an artery for commerce? How do locks and dams work? What are the "rules of the
road" on the Mississippi River? What are the commodities that move up and down the
river and why is water the preferred way of transporting such commodities rather than
highways, railways, or the air? In what ways does the Mississippi River connect the
center of the United States to the rest of the world?
Drinking the River
The Mississippi
River
is central to our lives not only for
its
commercial role but
because for many
of us
it serves an absolutely vital need
— a source
Science Museum of Minnesota Mississippi National River & Recreation Area
Proposal of Partnership page 7
because of human alterations of the river and its watershed? now significant are these
changes to the continued ability of the river to sustain its complex ecosystem and
maintain those qualities that make the river so appealing to people? What does it mean to
say that the river is dying? Can a river really die?
What is the Future of the Mississippi? Humans are the most significant agent of
change on the globe, and this is no less true in the watershed of the Mississippi River.
The Mississippi River of the future will be a river largely shaped by human activity,
either inadvertently or by design. What kind of river do we want? The river is home to
otters and eagles and is an international superhighway for agricultural commodities. How
do we reconcile the diversity of visions for the river? How is society's ever-increasing
scientific knowledge and technological prowess shaping the ways in which we envision
the river's future?
MNRRA and the Science Museum of Minnesota will join with the City of Saint Paul to
plan and to raise funds over the next ten years for the development of expanded outdoor
exhibits, outdoor classrooms, and outdoor programs about the Mississippi River and the
Mississippi Watershed for pedestrians and park users. The exhibits will be concentrated
in three areas: on the Kellogg Boulevard River Overlook near the new Science Museum
Building and MNRRA's Mississippi National Center; within River Park, the parcel of
land lying between the relocated Shepherd Road and the Mississippi River stretching
from Head House down river and to the South of the Science Museum; and within Harriet
Island/Lilydale Regional Park. The outdoor classrooms will be concentrated within
Crosby Farm Park and Harriet Island/Lilydale Regional Park. The outdoor programs will
be concentrated within River Park and within Harriet Island/Lilydale Regional Park.
Kellogg Boulevard River Overlook
Exhibits located off Kellogg Boulevard near the new Science Museum building will
orient pedestrians to the river scene they see spread out before them and introduce them
to some of the natural and human activity going on there. For instance, a three-
dimensional map of the river valley might be used to help users identify both landforms
and landmarks. An illustration might show the site when the channel of the great River
Warren covered much of the land between the river bluffs. A large windmill/weather
vane might identify prevailing wind patterns in the river valley and along the bluffs.
River Park
Occupying a large wedge-shaped piece of land bounded by the relocated Shepard Road
and the bank of the Mississippi, River Park is the terminus of a public causeway leading
down from the city center, linked by bicycle and walking paths to Crosby Farm Park and
Minneapolis upstream and Pigs Eye Lake and the metro waste water treatment plant
downstream.
The goal of River Park will be to provide linkages —new connections between the City
of Saint Paul and the river that is its reason for existence, between the historical industries
that lined the river's edge and the neighborhoods that grew up around them, between park
visitors and the full meaning of the place that they are exploring.
River Park will bring visitors almost to the point of getting their feet wet in the river; a
series of scale maps and reliefs might help visitors see that they are standing on the river's
Science Museum of Minnesota Mississippi National River & Recreation Area
Proposal of Partnership page 9
The Education Center will be built and operated by the Mississippi National River and
Recreation Area. A professional staff of National Park Service educators will provide
programming at the Center. The Science Museum of Minnesota will provide registration
and booking services. The Science Museum and Saint Paul Parks and Recreation will be
major programming partners. Other possible partners include commercial boat operators,
educational institutions, and not -for -profit neighborhood groups. Programs will be
offered individually by these groups or by two or more in partnership. The programs
offered will all be educational programs relating to the Mississippi River and MNRRA's
interpretive themes. Many programs will charge a fee; others will not. Another major
use of the center will be for community meetings, workshops, conferences, and seminars
related to the river.
Programs at the Education Center are generally aimed at combining indoor instruction
with use of "classrooms" located outdoors along the river and in the parks. Since the
focus is on the river, almost all of these programs will originate in the open water season
between April and November. To enhance its identity as a site for Mississippi River
education, the Education Center should be connected to the greatest extent possible by
proximity and line -of -sight with the river. MNRRA education staff will be housed within
the Mississippi River Education Center but the Administrative headquarters for MNRRA
will continue in leased space.
Listed below are sample programs that could be offered at the Education Center.
Guided Programs on the Mississippi River Participants in these programs would
explore different aspects of the river. Trips ranging from one hour to day -long would
begin with orientation and instruction in the Education Center followed by on -river
experiences from the Harriet Island/Lilydale Regional Park Dock. Transportation would
be provided by commercial boat operators and other private boat owners.
Program hosts: MNRRA, SMM, & other partners.
Guided Programs to Lilydale, an urban wilderness At the Education Center, these
programs would start with orientation and indoor instruction. They would then move to
outdoor classrooms at the quarry, flood plain forest, and reclaimed residential area.
Program hosts: MNRRA, Saint Paul Parks, & other partners.
Mississippi River Science These two hour boat trips offer hands-on-leaming
experiences that will foster in student participants a sense of awareness of river
ecosystems and connectedness with the river environment. Through interactive learning
stations, students organized into cooperative groups will learn first hand about the
geological origins of the Mississippi River, learn to identify the principal riverine
ecosystems and some of the plants and animals that live in them, monitor the river's
health, and learn about current issues related to the river and its watersheds and what we
can do about them. Structured learning experiences in the Education Center complement
the time on the river. For grades 4.8.
Program hosts: MNRRA, SMM, commercial boat operator, & other partners.
National Parks Educational Sampler A few of the best education programs from 369
National Park Areas would be offered at the Education Center. These programs would be
related to the MNRRA themes and would change yearly. This would offer participants a
chance to learn about other National Park areas.
Program host: MNRRA.
Eye on the Mississippi The Education Center would be a staging area for this program
that is connected to exhibits in the Mississippi River Gallery. Volunteers would take
daily research trips on the river. The Education Center would be used as a place to
process data collected, prepare samples, and store equipment.
Program host: SMM.
Science Museum of Minnesota Mississippi National River & Recreation Area
Proposal of Partnership page 11
Weekend Youth and Family Workshops/Field Trips Each weekend, special family
programs would be offered at the Education Center that would incorporate the broad
range of river topics of interest to the general public. Sample programs include "Fossil
Findings for Families," "Mississippi River Tales," and "Ancient Peoples of the
Mississippi — An Archaeological Field Trip." These would be fee -based programs.
Program hosts: SMM & MNRRA.
Mississippi River Institute for Teachers This two -week, graduate level, institute
would bring together environmental educators, university researchers, and
elementary/middle school teachers for a summer institute to explore river -based
curricular materials, current environmental/ecological research and issues impacting the
Mississippi and other river systems, as well as river studies drawn from literature and the
arts. The River Institute would be based at the education facility with field trips to
research sites and other educational/laboratory facilities as needed. National funding
would be sought for this project.
Program hosts: SMM, MNRRA, & one or more institutional partners, including
Hamlin University's Center for Global Environmental Education and the University of
St Thomas.
Tri-Rivers Leadership Development Camp This three-week youth camp would enable
young people in Minnesota to learn about and develop educational projects focusing on
the ecological and environmental issues and concerns regarding the St Croix, the
Mississippi, and the Minnesota rivers. The camp would foster increased and active youth
stewardship of Minnesota river systems through involving its participants in experiential
environmental education activities related to these three river systems. For three weeks
each summer, up to 30 high school students from throughout Minnesota (perhaps the
region) would camp and learn together in various locations around the state using the
three rivers as "outdoor laboratories." Camp participants would study the natural and
current physical conditions of these three water resources and would be trained in water
monitoring techniques. Rural and urban site visits to industries (agriculture, business,
and recreation) that are dependent upon and influence each of the three watersheds would
also be at the core of the daily programming. The camp would use the Mississippi River
Education Center for its base and would spend approximately one of the three weeks
around or at the education center. The camp would be developed and offered initially
through a grant, but would be structured to become a self-supporting camp.
Program hosts: SMM, MNRRA, & other partners.
Riverboat Rendezvous This summer event aims to reveal the economics and lifestyle
of river commerce. Towboats, barges, paddlewheelers, and other boats would converge
on Harriet Island/Lilydale Regional Park. The public would get a chance to meet and talk
with pilots and deckhands during a visit. Many of the boats would be open for a tour;
exhibits would link the boat to the economy of the river. Programs of river music, skills,
and stories would be provided. The Education Center would be open to the public with
special exhibits and programs.
Program hosts: MNRRA, SMM, Saint Paul Parks, commercial boat operators, &
other partners and sponsors.
Summer River Fest Each summer SMM and MNRRA would plan and host a major
river festival that would span both sides of the Mississippi. The Celebration Plaza at the
riverfront museum would be one performing stage with the Education Center offering a
variety of drop -in mini classes, lectures, demonstrations, and exhibits.
Program hosts: SMM, MNRRA, City of Saint Paul, & other partners and sponsors.
0 0 0
Science Museum of Minnesota Mississippi National River & Recreation Area
Proposal of Partnership page 13
Comparison of MNRRA Costs and Attendance
Table 1 summarizes estimated construction, staffing, operating costs, and attendance for
the interpretive center concept as described in the MNRRA Comprehensive Management
Plan and three other possible scenarios involving a partnership with the Science
Museum. Cost estimates were made by comparing the size and functions of the facilities
in each scenario with the Interpretive Center proposed in the plan and with other facilities
built by the National Park Service (NPS). These are rough estimates developed by the
NPS that will need to be revised after additional design work is completed. The
attendance estimates for the Mississippi River Education Center were made by comparing
it to similar facilities in the Twin Cities and in other NPS areas. Attendance estimates for
the Mississippi River National Center and for the Mississippi River Exhibition Gallery
were provided by the Science Museum based on past attendance at SMM. Detail on the
scenarios in Table 1 is provided in Tables 2 — 5.
In all scenarios, the following two components would be located in the new Science
Museum of Minnesota (SMM).
• Mississippi River National Center
• Mississippi River Exhibition Gallery
The location and design of the two major components described below varies with each
of the scenarios.
• Mississippi River Education Center
• MNRRA Headquarters
Scenario #1: MNRRA Headquarters and 3500 gross square foot Mississippi River
Education Center combined into one facility.
Scenario #2: A 3500 gross square foot Mississippi River Education Center located
within Harriet Island/Lilydale Regional Park. MNRRA Headquarters would remain in
leased space in Saint Paul.
Scenario #3: A 6700 gross square foot Mississippi River Education Center located
within Harriet Island/Lilydale Regional Park. The expanded education center includes a
large room for community -related meetings, programs, and drop4n visitors; a room for
resource access through the World-wide Web; and a room in which MNRRA, SMM,
Saint Paul Parks, and other partners' staff and volunteers can prepare for their programs.
Science Museum of Minnesota Mississippi National River & Recreation Area
Proposal of Partnership page 15
Table 2: Cost of MNRRA components in the new Science Museum of Minnesota
Component
Size
Construction
Operating
Notes
Cost
Cost/year
Mississippi River
2,000 sf
$300,000
$65,000
Leased from SMM with
National Center
NPS completing the
interior construction and
furnishing the space.
Mississippi River
2,500 sf
$1,000,000 (to
$54,000
Exhibits funded by NPS
Exhibition
build exhibits in
will be integrated with an
Gallery exhibits
cooperation
additional 2500 square feet
with the SMM)
of Mississippi River
exhibits funded by the
SMM. Total of 5,000
square feet of Mississippi
River exhibits at SMM.
Subtotal
4,500 sf
$1,300,000
$119,000
Design Costs
$260,000
Not
Design costs are 20% of
Applicable
exhibit cost and of interior
construction cost.
Total in SMM
4,500 sf
$1,560,000
$11%000
Science Museum of Minnesota Mississippi National River & Recreation Area
Proposal of Partnership page 17
Table 4: Cost for Scenario #2
Mississippi River Education Center at Harriet Island/Lilydale Regional Park, Headquarters
remains in leased space
Component
Size
Construction
Operating
Notes
Cost
Costs/year
Mississippi River
3,500 gross
$1,100,000
$33,100
Two classrooms.
Education
square feet
Multipurpose audit -
Center
orium space for
75. Wired for
connection to the
Internet.
Headquarters
7,000 sf
0
$115,000
7,000 sq. feet leased
at current rate.
Headquarters
Not
$ 75,000
Not
Very rough estimate
Furnishings
Applicable
Applicable
to outfit remaining
offices in leased
space.
Education Center
Not
$ 10%000
Not
Rough estimate.
Furnishings
Applicable
Applicable
Landscape
Not
$ 202,000
Not Available
Decreases as size of
development/
Applicable
building decreases.
site prep.
Utility connect.
Not
$ 14,000
Not
Same as in CMP.
Applicable
Applicable
Parking
33 car/bus
$ 126,000
Not
For education center
Applicable
only.
Subtotal
N.A.
$12617,000
$148,100
Survey/Design
$ 404,000
Not
Applicable
Totals
10,500 sf
$2,0212000
$1489100
Total in SMM
4,500 sf
$11560,000
$11%000
(from Table 2)
Grand Totals
15,000 sf
$31581,000
$267,100
Scenario #2
Science Museum of Minnesota Mississippi National River & Recreation Area
Proposal of Partnership page 19
Attendance Estimates
To assist in understanding now various partnership scenarios would affect attendance,
projections for various NPS facilities within Harriet Island/Lilydale Regional Park and within
the Science Museum were prepared. The attendance estimates for the Mississippi River
Education Center were made by comparing it to similar facilities in the Twin Cities and in
other NPS areas. Attendance estimates for the Mississippi River National Center and for the
Mississippi River Exhibition Gallery were provided by the Science Museum based on past
attendance at SMM. Table 6 summarizes attendance projections.
Interpretive Center/Ilead-
quarters on Harriet Island as
described in the Compre-
hensive Management Plan
Scenario 1: Mississippi River
Education Center and Head-
quarters on Harriet Island;
Mississippi River National
Center and Mississippi River
Exhibition Gallery in SMM
Scenario 2: Mississippi River
Education Center on Harriet
Island; Headquarters remains
in leased space; Mississippi
River National Center and
Mississippi River Exhibition
Gallery in SMM
Scenario 3: Mississippi River
Education Center with offices
for education staff on Harriet
Island; Headquarters remain
in leased space; Mississippi
River National Center and
Mississippi River Exhibition
Gallery in SMM
Interpretive
Mississippi
Mississippi
Mississippi
Total
Center &
River
River
River
Attendance
Head-
National
Exhibition
Education
quarters
Center
Gallery
Center
30,000-
50,000
X I X 30,000-
50,000
X
300,000 —
1,000,000
16,000 —
1,016,000 —
400,000
247000
1,024,000
X
30%000 —
1,0001000
16,000 —
11016,000 —
400,000
24,000
1,0249000
X 300,000 — 1,000,000 28,000 — 1,028,000 —
400,000 40,000 1,040,000
Science Museum of Minnesota Mississippi National River & Recreation Area
Proposal of Partnership page 21
of course someone has to operate the lock and dam. Do you all know enough about
river navigation to ensure safe and swift movement of boat traffic up and down the river?
Also around the pilot house are other boats. An old birch bark canoe helps tell the story
of the archaeological sites along the Upper Mississippi and what we have come to know
about the people who lived in this area as long 12,000 years ago. You rummage through
the beaver pelts and other items in the belly of a voyageur canoe and ponder the role of
the river in the fur trade that first brought Europeans to this part of the country. A
portion of a keelboat helps tell the story of European migration and displacement of
native peoples in this part of the country.
You see a large crowd gathering over at the River Lab and stroll over. A volunteer river
monitor has just arrived from her morning survey of the Mississippi River in downtown
Saint Paulin the Science Museum's lab boat, The River Eye. She begins to set out the
things she collected: A sample of beaver musk — she asks how many knew that beavers
swim the river here in downtown Saint Paul? Video footage of a Great Blue Heron flying
overhead— how many are aware of the large heron rookery only two miles away? A
water sample from a storm sewer outflow — how many realize what happens to the water
that runs down their streets after a rain? People crowd in to touch, smell, and see all that
she has to offer.
At another lab window, you try your hand at purifying Mississippi River water. Taking a
fresh sample of river water, you pass it through various filters and mix in appropriate
chemicals. The end product is a cup of clear water for you to drink. Is it safe to drink?
What contaminants are easy for conventional water treatment to remove, which are more
difficult? You take a sip as you contemplate all the millions of people that depend on this
river for all of their household water needs.
After your encounter with the River Lab, you decide to discover more about the forces
that shaped the Mississippi River. In particular, you are intrigued by a computer
simulation that allows you to move freely back and forth through the past 10,000 years in
Saint Paul to see how the river channel has responded to changing geologic and climatic
forces. Then you roll up your sleeves and try your hands at shaping a river in a stream
table. Increase or decrease the flow of water, raise or lower the slope of the topography,
install and/or remove dams and levees — under what circumstances do rivers meander,
what are flood plains, where is the fastest water in a river channel?
Near the stream table is an incredibly detailed large satellite image of the watershed of the
Upper Mississippi River. With the aid of an associated computer program, you get an
opportunity to really grapple with the concept of what is a watershed. With the click of a
mouse, you can fly over the entire watershed and visit particular points of interest. You
can make it rain over a portion of the watershed and watch the water run off the land and
begin its journey downstream. You realize that even though you live on land all your
actions eventually have an effect on the river.
After the stream table and watershed map, you realize that hydrology does not need to be
inscrutable and actually is fun, but now it is time to discover more about Mississippi
River ecology. Along the windows with their panoramic views of the river are several
luxuriant grow boxes. One grow box highlights native prairie plants as would have been
found on the bluff lands above the river. A series of grow boxes recreate the cyclical life
of a river backwater and the importance of varying water levels on riverine ecology. As
you stand over the grow boxes, you wonder what the area outside the windows once
looked like and turn your attention to a flip book in front of one of the windows. Maps,
oId photographs, historical first person accounts allows you to flip through time.
You hear the sound of bird songs and decide to investigate. Nearby under the canopy of
a flood plain forest in the spring, you look up and notice songbird species that move up
CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS
April 4, 1996
TO: Parks and Recreation Commission
FROM: Terry Blum, Parks Leadperson
SUBJECT: March Monthly Park Status Report
The following maintenance activities were completed by the Parks crew
during the month of March.
Finished trimming trees along our pedway system.
" Started trimming tree in parks.
* Work on spring startup of equipment. Prepare equipment for
summer. (Change over winter to summer)
* Clean out cul-de-sacs after snow storm.
TB: kkb
ACTIVITY REPORT - MENDOTA HGTS PARKS
Reporting Period: 03/01/96 to 03/31/96
INCIDENTS:
DATE TIME LOCATION
)3/13/96 20:29 KENSINGTON PARK
gESCRIPTION: OTHER PARKING COMPLAINTS