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1996-04-09 Parks and Rec Comm Agenda Packet CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS • DAKOTA COUNTY,NIINNESOTA AGENDA PARKS AND RECREATION CONMUSSION April 9, 1996 6:30 p.m.-City Council Chambers 1. Call to Order 2. Roll Call 3. Approval of February 13, 1996 Minutes 4. 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 8. Fort Snelling State Park 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 are 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 r 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, 1996 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 considered a feasibility study for lights at the Mendakota Park balifields 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 $11,000. 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 Unnell expressed a concern that a 16' x 16' shelter might be too small for Wentworth Park. Unnell stated that both Valley Park and Roger'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, WI Interim City Admi ' for C TY OF NMMTA TMGxHTS TO: Parks and Recreation Commissioners FROM: Chris Esser, Recreation Programmer RE: Mendota Heights Athletic Association T-Ball Update DATE: April 3, 1996 DiSCiTs.q 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 Gellmman, 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. AWN REQIIIRR Discuss Mendota Heights Athletic Association T-Ball program and its policies. i • C:TI'Y OF M6:NnOTA IEEIGHTS TO: Parks and Recreation Commissioners FROM: Chris Esser, Recreation Programmer RE: Bethel Baptist Church Mendakota Fields Request DATE. April 3, 1996 DISCUSSii7N Pastor Don Delich of Bethel Baptist Church has requested the use of all four Mendakota Fields for Fridays, May 3rd to August 16th. 11he 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 resent his raga p league information to the Commission, and will attend April 9th. ACTION RF.()iTiRF,n c Resident or non-resident fee recommendation for Bethel Baptist Church softball league. CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS DAKOTA COUNTY, hI NNESOTA RESOLUTION NO. 95- A RESOLUTION ESTABLISB3NG RULES AND RENTAL FEES FOR USE OF CITY PARKS AND PROPERTY WHEREAS, the City of Mendota Heights has a need to establish a rules and rental fees schedule for use of City parks and facilities. NOW THEREFORE BE IT HEREBY RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Mendota Heights, that Resolution No 93-67 be amended in its entirety; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the following policy of the City of Mendota Heights, as set forth below, shall be adopted: I. SHELTER/BUIIAING RENTAL A. The fee to reserve space in the picnic areas, or picnic shelters of city parrs shall be: Resident-Private no charge $25.00 for groups of 50 or larger Non-Resident-Private $25.00 per day Resident- Corporate/business $50.00 per day Non-Resident- Corporatwbusiness $100.00 per day B. Churches, synagogues and other religious congregations in Mendota Heights or adjacent communities whose membership consists of Mendota Heights residents will be considered Resident-Private Groups. C. All shelters are available for reservation including Mendakota Park, Rogers Lake Park, Kensington Park and Valley Park. Parks classified as "Neighborhood Parks" can be reserved for picnics by their respective neighborhood groups at no charge. D. Park Permits shall be submitted for park reservations and shall contain the following information: 1. Name of the park 2. Date 3. Time 4. Event (such as family picnic, softball game) 5. Number of people attending 6. Name of person/contact responsible for event. I. SHELTERBUILDING RENTAL (continued) E. ReservaUons 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 mops 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 wiIl be notified of all reservations. H. Groups wishing to reserve shelters shall abide by the attached Hiles 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. J. 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. II. KOUII'MENT RENTALS 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. i III. SOFTBALL TOURNAMENTS A. Fees for a two day weekend tournament: Mendota Heights team currently participating in a Mendota Heights adult softball league: $200.00 For all others a flat rate of: $350.00 For any additional days: $25.00 per frld B. All adult softball tournaments will be governed by ASA rules and regulations. All tournaments will also adhere to Mendota Heights rules and regulations governing park facilities. C. A damage deposit of$200.00 will be required and mustbe submitted along with the tournament fee two weeks prior to the schedduled event. An additional damage deposit may be required for extraordinary circumstances, as determined by the City of Mendota Heights. D. All City recreation sponsored tournaments will be exempt from all fees and deposits- E. No more than three tournaments per month will be allowed without approval of the Recreation Programmer. F. Each tournament and sponsor shall abide by the attached rules and regulations and . a written confirmation of the reservation shall be executed between the sponsor and the City setting forth the fee and terms for the use of the park. The attached rules and regulations are identified as "EXHI WT B". G. The refund policy for canceled reservations shall be: Cancellation 14 days in advance 100% refund Cancellation 1 to 13 days in advance 50% refund IV. FIELD/SITE RESERVATIONS A. Softball fields: Adult Standard Fields $25.00 per field for non-residents (Mendakota, Civic Center) Neighborhood park fields First come, first served except for authorized seasonal reservations Field preparation $25.00 per field (this excludes weekday (For all user groups except prep for Mendota Heights youth City sponsored programs) organizations) 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 continued 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, first served basis. All requests for field reservations for the fall season (August 16 through October 31) will be made in writing between nine 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. VL FIELD/SITE RESERVATIONS (continued) H. The Parks and Recreation Commission, with City Council approval, reserves the right to waive fees or to limit or deny reservation requests at their discretion. ADOPTED by the City Council of the City of Mendota Heights this? 1995. day of CITY COUNCIL CITY OF M]ENDOTA HEIGHTS By Charles B. Mertensotto, Mayor ATTEST: Kathleen M. Swanson, City Clerk R�*D RF.Gi7rn�.rS FOR aSE OF CITY P Rental picnics. s • use only those arm designated lxties such fcxzrts and ball fields s � aorseshoe y lley rved basis less specxfxca va�ble on a first come , ?• Rental erved. debris In will be theme area 3- r bleeiactivity.cleanup e a up of trash andxy fore%xmSr Faciliti • es sucb as Pes win ZV2mLj.3jicnicCables, benches and Of any facilities win -in Meir reTAIM Pzreseur 1 other Park 4. g Permission. moving Of said- grou in olations toeCityyconts''°]13n9 all 5. 9� will berenumW 'Of the VrcVft*g All for vehiUnless cles will be prior beingarrP9.�� Parked in designate catered,a r �t Xf�5 �" gemenCs in ors on ent Park staff , for specific 6• only egg �e n9', etc. consfcyere8 �is�g Of 200 ' i rental of d e4nated a °r less Will be T. ��9', yeas. excessive use of P� ctemus' pm or coholic beyezages, or abusive, Park 10 Prohibited. �guage, or conduct" in any 8. $ City parks. CUS32320= and/or RW gWM axe Prohibited in The 9. P•m. City Of Mendota fieights park houXV are 6:00 a.ar. to IO 1.0• Fires are allowed ted be letely beef re leav3 the Mptacl ear Fires =st II. City of Mendota Hei area. City to be leashed. Thigsh °�an� zequire all Owe exu are also regu s atloso Per.-tains to Park dogs in the ants clean up any dr°PPinregs Property. yeft Pet by EXMIT "B" RULES AND REGULATIONS FOR LEAGUE AND NON LEAGUE SOFTBALL TOURNAMENTS 1. The City of Mendota Heights will provide four ball fields, bases, trash removal, chalking equipment and bathroom materials. 2. The sponsoring organization will be responsible for picking up all trash at the end of Saturday's and Sunday's games. Trash is to be placed in containers provided by the City. Failure to properly clean up will cause forfeit of deposit. 3. The sponsoring organization will be responsible for traffic and parking comroL Only city vehicles used for maintenance will be allowed past the parking lot. All other vehicles will be restricted to the parking lot. 4. All park facilities such as picnic tables, playground equipmentand bleachers shall • remain in their present locations. The moving of any facilities will require additional permission. 5. It is required that the sponsoring organization purchase a ASA liability policy to properly protect themselves from possible suit as a result of the tournament. A certificate of insurance must be furnished to the City. 6. The sale of beer or any other alcoholic beverages is prohibited. Excessive use of alcoholic beverages in any public park is also prohibited. 7. A formal letter of request must be submitted to the Recreation Programmer, City of Mendota Heights that will include the following information: a. Name of sponsoring organization and contact person that is responsible for the tournament. b. Dates of the tournament. C. Number of fields and approximate times they will be used. EXMIT "Cu. PRIORITIES FOR FEU DlRDM RESERVATIONS 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/Private Groups. 6. Sixth priority will be given to non-resident youth or adult programs. CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS MEMO April 4, 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. MAR-19-19% 11:30 612 454 4570 P.02/02 Saint Thomas Develepment/M mni (612)04.0090 Administrative OWIM (612)4544570 March 19, 1996 Mr. Jim Danielson City of Mendota Heights 1101 victoria Curve Mendota Heights, Mu 55118 Dear Mr. Danielson, I am writing to again request the use of the Tennis courts by Rogers Lake and also the valley Park Courte for use by the Saint Thomas Academy Tennis team. we would like to use the courts Monday - Friday from April 1- June 1- from 3:15 - 15:15 PM. I am making this request since we no longer have courts at St. Thomas Academy. we are hoping to rectify this condition but as . Of now, Z am not certain when we will do this. we will be using the courts at visitation High School but are in need of additional courts. Thank you for considering this request. Please notify me of Your decision. Sincerely, Wes' LC��,.` Jack zahr Athletic Director Jivz/j a 949 Mendota Hsi is Road . Mendota$ei is . Minnesota . 55120 Sainc Thomas Acadcmy-piepadag young=n to succeed in college and in life. TOTAL P.02 MY OF hMMOTA HEIGIM, MMORANDIUM 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, curnent 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. RICHAR13 G.SPICER CARVER,DAKOTA,GOODHUE,LESUEUR JUDGE OF DISTRICT COURT i��P�i MCLEOD,SCOTT AND SISLEY COUNTIES DAKOTA COUNTY JUDICIAL CENTER _-k �tnrl (6121 438-4328 1860 WEST HIGHWAY SS FAX 46121 438-8182 HASTINGS,MINNESOTA 68033 STATE OF MINNESOM& FIIIST JUDICIAL DISTIRICT � urj w w•w . March 26, 1996 Kevin Batchelder City of Mendota Heights 1101 Victoria Curve Mendota Heights, MN 55118 Dear Kevin: I received the enclosed information from Dakota County Parks and Recreation Council Committee. I am unable to attend since I have a baseball game to coach that night but you may want to put this on • our agenda for May so that somebody can attend on behalf of the City of Mendota Heights, if anybody has such an interest. If you have any questions, please feel free to let me know. Vi ly yours, cer RGS/ko Enc. DAKOTA COUNTY PARKS DEPARTMENT (612)436- M 8500127TH STREET EAST—HASTINGS,MINNESOTA 55033 FAX(612)437-4660 March 22, 1996 Dear City Park Director: 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 Park 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 park 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 nmissionbision statement to: Dakota County Parks Department,8500 127th Street East,Hastings,MN 55033. Our fax number is 4374560. Enclosed you will find a copy of Dakota County Parks 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 4384665 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 e:pujoint r� Printed on recycled paper.20%poat�mer 4rl$ AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER AGENDA DAKOTA COUNTY JOINT PARK AGENCY MEETING MAY 18,19W 4:30 PM-8*30 PM SPRING LAKE PARK YOUTH LODGE 4:30 PM WELCOME AND INTRODUCTIONS CHAIR ROBERT DOFFING,DAKOTA COUNTY PARKS AND RECREATION ADVISORY COMMITTEE 4:40 PM MN VALLEY REFUGE AND RECREATION AREA PRESENTATIONIDISCUSSION - RICK SCHULTZ,REFUGE MANAGER 4:55 PM MN STATE PARKS PRESENTATIONIDISCUSSION - FORT SNELLING STATE PARK MANAGEMENT PLAN GRANT SCHOLEN,PARKS PLANNER 5:10 PM DAKOTA COUNTY PARKS PRESENTATIONIDISCUSSION - REGIONAL TRAILS LYNN MORATZKA,PLANNER - REGIONAL PARKS STEVE SULLIVAN,MANAGER OF PARK PLANNING AND MAINTENANCE 5:30 PM CITY PARKS PRESENTATIONIDISCUSSION 6:15 PM DINNER BREAK 8:45 PM CITY PARKS PRESENTA710NIDISCUSSION(CONTINUED) 7:30 PM INFORMAL INTER-AGENCY DISCUSSION 6:30 PM ADJOURNMENT The'Mission / theDalicota / SystemPark I priovide Ir the' - protection an/ preservation of land in its natural-state, while providing, for outdoor / o '/ ' 0 C 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 committed 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. N State 56 U.S. 52 Pike Intl Tail ARCHERY TRAIL YOUTH GROUP CAMPGROUND 42 state Fahey 55 Ave. To Rosemount To Hastings • CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS MEMO April 4, 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 April4, 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. • DA KOTA COUNTY OFFICE OF PLANNING (612)891-7030 DIVISION OF PHYSICAL DEVELOPMENT FAX(612)891-7031 14955 GALAXIE AVENUE APPLE VALLEY,MINNESOTA 55124-957 �I. March 15, 1996 18 c raaa►aaaaasaarra�aarIr�I� Mr.Kevin Batchelder, Interim City Administrator City of Mendota Heights 1101 Victoria Curve Mendota Heights,MN 55118 Dear Mr.�3att . er: e Vitt/: Enclosed is a copy of the revised draft development plan for the North Urban Regional Trail along with a copy of the notice for the public meeting Open House. The Open House is scheduled to be held on April 4, 1996 at the Wentworth Library. Since revised draft development plan does not contain any trail alignment changes or other substantial revisions within your city limits,we did not notify contact individual property owners about the scheduled Open House. However, individual property owners within the city limits of West St.Paul were contacted, as this is where the significant trail route revisions occur. You are welcome to invite any officials or citizens from your community that you feel needs to be personally notified of the Open House. Thank you for your cooperation and we look forward to working with you on this important project. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact me in the Office of Planning at 891-7027. Sincerely, Kam/ Johnnie Forrest,Program Manager OFFICE of PLANNING Enclosures cc: Commissioner Donald J. Maher,District 2 Commissioner Patrice Bataglia,District 3 Brandt Richardson, County Administrator 49 Louis J.Breimhurst,Director,Physical Development Division P:INURTtPNTGCI'Y Printed on recycled paper,20%post-consumer Cif, AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER NORTH URBAN TRAIL OPEN HOUSE PUBLIC NOTICE for PUBLIC COhOdEE N'TS on the REVISED DRAFT MASTER.PLAN An Open House for public comments on the Revised Draft Master Plan 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 15, 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 HURT Comments 14955 Galaxie Avenue Apple Valley,MN 55124-8579 TO BE PUBLISHED in next TWO ISSUES of the SOUTHWEST REVIEW and LILLIE NEWS P:1l UrXNTC.PPR • DAHOTA COUNTY REGIONAL TRAIL DEVELOPMENT PLAN FOR THE NORTH URBAN REGIONAL TRAIL DRAFT Dakota County Division of Physical Development 14955 Galaue 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 • DAKOTA COUNTY REGIONAL TRAIL DEVELOPMENT PLAN FOR THE NORTH URBAN REGIONAL TRAIL TABLE OF CONTENTS EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 1. NORTH URBAN REGIONAL TRAIL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Purpose of Plan. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Scopeof Plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Preferred Corridor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 2. NEED AND JUSTIFICATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Regional Trail Service Area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Recreation Trends . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Local Park and Trail System Access . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 TransportationFunctions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 S. PROJECT AREA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 4. FACILITY PLAN. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Users . . 6 DesignCriteria . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Trailhead Facilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 5. PREFERRED TRAIL CORRIDOR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Segment 1—LRydale Road(CSAH 45) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Segment 2-Valley Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Segment 3—TH 110 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Segment 4--Olivia L Dodge Property . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Segment 5--Charlton Street . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Segment&-Garlough ParkWarthar Park. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Segment7—Wentworth Avenue . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Segment 8—Oakdale Avenue(CSAH 73) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Segment 9—Thompson County Park. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Segment 10—Baposia ParklSim=n 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 8. PUBLIC AGENCY INVOLVEMENT/PUBLIC SERVICES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Cities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Dakota County . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Mn/DOT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Metropolitan Council . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 9. CITIZEN PARTICIPATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 10. PUBLIC AWARENESS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 APPENDIX 1. NORTH URBAN REGIONAL TRAM. DegerilWon Dakota County is evaluating development of a regional trail across northern Dakota County. Existing 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 Council'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.Open 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 is 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. Purpose of Plan This plan identifies a preferred regional trail corridor for northern Dakota County. An 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 segment of the Big Rivers Regional Trail at Lilydale Regional Park and the South St.Paul riverfront 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 implementation/master plan for the trail. 1 31• n .K. r(�1• •+ see. JIL rV 1•ew NN •w.•,+� ♦t:': d'. 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L•'r't• ��J ✓T. �~F� EAGAN :' to r d® Kemp P: r ® ® .•:,rim Ile `b, f't` I.steel O reI•,ay- 'L♦tla �+ SS ` REY-*.»,•tt : h"A Fah lImmm tt' `p1'`O :• sawa Maser Afat fYl i safe a � `.: r n M`h. r �`� d Lake s •� �..1,, saes � • . ° �� CLOUD': • f A" '•: T4ar+a, ca I'" "OURla low Q r W Iss ' � a; I:1ver• e. . r a L® �t , 1'�AsL?D . ?+:. � '... Haunt L � 9 ••• r• f � 'h �p :. n �� f PL•1j EJ p .' �t 4.S 1 Batwn 4��.• '::l•. .�i: t::i<.' .•.r_�7 .r' •.i:si.rai i«;ri r._.: - ..-.. mom NORTH URBAN REGIONAL TRAIL PROJECT LOCATION DAKOTA COUNTY, MINNESOTA EBarton-Aschman Associates. Inc. 'is Tt♦t.•. "Iles 3W W...r.aa mile""I Parse" Figure 1 • Scone of Plan 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. Preferred Corridor 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 tram,passes through five different public parks and is intended to minimize impacts to private property Figure 8 shows the preferred corridor. 2. NEED AND J U37'IFICATION Introduction The need and,justification for a regional tram 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 • e Linkages to other regional open space systems 0 Transportation functions 2 A summary of this justification and supporting information follows. i R•vioni 1 Trail Service Are Dakota County's North Urban Regional Trail's primary service area.are those communities in which it is aligned including Mendota heights,West St.Paul,and South St. Paul. However, substantial portions of northern Dakota County and Ramsey County will also benefit. Its secondary service area will likely include the Cities of St.Paul,Eagan, Inver Grove Heights,Lilydale,Sunfish Lake, and Mendota. As shown in Table 2.1,the 1990 population of the primary service area was about 50,000, and the secondary service area amounted to about 345,000 including St.Paul. According to Metropolitan Council year 2010 population projections,the primary service area will be about 55,000 and the secondary service area about 380,000. The geographic area and population potentially served by the North Urban Regional Trail is substantial. Benefitting communities represent urban,mature suburban,and developing suburban areas. Demographics of these communities also vary representing younger families,young adults,and senior citizens. These characteristics suggest a wide variety of likely trail users ranging from bicyclists to in-line skating to pedestrians. Recreation TremAR National and regional recreation trends continue to suggest increased trail use and strong future interest. A 1988 Department of Natural Resources(DNR)survey conducted as a part of the State Outdoor Recreation Facility Adequacy Survey identified walking paths and bicycle paths and trams ranking third and fourth as desired recreation facilities in the metropolitan area. These same facilities ranked third and eighth,respectively,on a statewide basis. That same survey suggested continuing increases in interest regarding walking,hildng,and bicycling through the year 2000. The vast majority of this recreation participation occurs within one-half mile of home. Therefore,the dense and increasing population represented within the primary and secondary service areas suggest extensive use of the North Urban Trail upon development.Use figures will likely be moderate during initial phases of development,however,increasing use will occur as the trail becomes frilly developed and interconnected with other existing and planned trail corridors. Local community park,open space,and trail planning also suggest interest in trail use. For example,trails were cited as the most desired facility in a survey of community residents conducted during the Mendota Heights Park and Open Space System Plan completed in 1985. Similar community interest has been documented in both West St.Paul and South St. Paul. Park, open space,and trail planning within each of these communities has aggressively pursued trail development and endorses the concept of a regional trail connecting the communities. Regional Facilities Development of the North Urban Regional Trail will provide an important component to interiinking regional facilities within the area. 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'I. �!'5�j1, `!,I►�-��i� 'p I, -, ,J ,�- Ira � `\ `r�i�►- �� 1. 6 I I ,� ,�r`_� I = � � - � ` _ --��,' a v .••.r � �.�. \�/7�s�\i��:�, -\ ,. �, .r '' ,.', �-��:��'•'9'F��l�L\��i��i rJ��`�_.� ;.�'I�!/�j', w� ��` _ ,. \i -I r M►J�i�3 �-tJ�- r 'Ili/ / - -- 1 � 11 ill • • . . . . � . . � � . TABLE 2.1 NORTH URBAN REGION TRAIL SERVICE AREA POPULATION Community Population 1990 2000 2010 2020 Primary Service Area Mendota Heights 9,431 100800 120150 13,300 West St. Paul 19,248 209200 219000 21,600 South St. Paul 20,197 21,000 219700 22,500 Total 1 489876 520000 54,850 579400 Secondary Service Area Eagan 47,409 63,500 68,500 71,000 Inver Grove Heights 22,477 27,500 33,000 40,500 Lilydale 506 540 570 590 Sunfish Lake 413 510 550 560 Mendota 164 170 180 190 Subtotal 70,969 92,220 102,800 112,840 ..................................................................................................... .............................................. .................................................... St. Paul 272,235 1 275,000 280,000 285,500 TOTAL 343,204 367,220 382,800 398 340 SOURCE: Metropolitan Council, Barton-Aschman corridor. Each river corridor contains important regional resources existing and planned by federal, state,and regional government. Specific regional open space elements that the North Urban Regional trail will occur in close proximity to: • Hidden Falls/Crosby Farm • Lilydale/Harriet Island • Fort Snelling State Park • Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge The North Urban Regional Trail will also become an integral part of an extensive regional trail system as other existing and planned corridors are linked. Other regional trails or systems that the North Urban Trail will contribute to include: • Minnesota River valley Trail Corridor • Big Rivers Trail Corridor(along the Mississippi River at Lilydale) • Northern Dakota County Regional Trail(along the South St. Paul riveff=t) • St.Paul Parkway and Boulevard System • Minneapolis Parkway System(via improved Mendota Bridge) • Future"rails to trails" corridors extending south into Eagan and Inver Grove Heights Imcal Park and Tyafl System Access System planning completed for community park and trail elements verify the importance of the North Urban Trail as an intercommunity corridor. The trail will interconnect local neighborhood, community,and recreational facilities. These connections are strengthened by access from existing local trails servicing residential areas. The resulting system recognizes the hierarchy between regional and local park recreation elements and the system's contribution to adjacent communities and the region. Transgu=jation Functions Transportation benefits will also result from development of the North Urban Regional Trail. This benefit will result from improved access to schools, parks, shopping areas,and other community facilities for area residents. Specific benefits and opportunities include: • Six schools occur in close proximity of the corridor • Residential linkages to the area s county hbrary,city halls, and churches would occur • Improved access would exist to commercial corridors such as Robert Street as well as neighborhood convenience centers • 4 • 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. S. 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 S. 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) • Baposia Park(South St.Paul) The corridor provides direct access to the following public facilities: ' Garlough Elementary School • West St.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 5 The proposed trail corridor must cross Robert Street and Lafayette Freeway. Robert Street is a busy commercial corridor through West St.Paul with average daily traffic of about • 29,000 vehicles. Lafayette freeway is a major arterial roadway with controlled access. Currently,Dakota County is planning to develop regional trails along the Mississippi River. The proposed trail corridor connects with these regional trails. 4. FACILITY PLAN Users Expected users of the North Urban Regional Trail include pedestrians,bicycles,and skaters. Where physically feasible,the trail will meet accessibility requirements for people with disabilities. Trail users will typically be from the residential areas surrounding the tram.Typical use will be for access to area facilities and shorter recreational experiences. It is unlikely that this tram will receive heavy use from people intending to traverse the entire length of the trail. Other trails in the metropolitan area provide a longer continuous trail experience with fewer interruptions. Design Criteria Currently,there are no specific design standards for regional trails published or adopted by Dakota County,the Metropolitan Council,MnDNR, or MnMOT.The Metropolitan Council and Mn/DOT are currently developing trail design guidelines.The trail will be developed in conformance with can-ant AAS13TO,MnDNR,MuIDOT,and Metropolitan Council guidelines. The requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act will be met where physically feasible. Width and Clearances Generally,regional trails are being constructed in the metropolitan area with a minimum treadway width of eight feet and two-foot shoulders.Tea feet is a desirable minimum width for new construction. When physical constraints do not limit the width along the corridor, additional trail width should be provided if heavy two-way use by different user types is expected or experienced. Trail width should be consistent within a given area Segments of the proposed trail will be located in fully developed areas with limited space available for trail construction. In some areas,the existing eight-foot wide trails will be used. In areas with adequate space,new trail will have a tan-foot vaini*ium width and existing trails will eventually be widened to at least tea feet.Additional width may be necessary if heavy multipurpose use is experienced. Generally,the trail should be separated from existing roadways by at least six feet to allow space for signs,mail boxes,and snow storage.Two-foot turfed shoulders and a three-foot clear zone to fixed objects should be provided along the trail edges. La area with limited i 6 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(5-foot rise over 100-foot 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• Maamum design speed for bicycles and roller blades on the trail is 15 mph.Adequate curvature and sight distance should be provided in accordance with AASHrO 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 and 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 Tragic Control Devices. Lighting should be provided at traiUroadway intersections and trailhead parking lots. Trailhead Facilities Within the public park land along the trail corridor,trmlhead facilities will be provided. These facilities could include the following items: 0 Parking Lots . • Rest Rooms 7 0 Drinking Water . 0 Orientation Map or Kiosk • Picnic Shelter • Picnic Tables 0 Benches • Bike Racks 0 Trash Receptacle 0 Public Telephone • S 0 0 0 2' 8' (EXISTING TRAIL) 2' SH. 10' MIN.(NEW TRAIL) SH. G) N-- 7 BITUMINOUS O 8' MINIMUM WIDTH IF EXISTING TRAIL IS USED. 10' MINIMUM WIDTH FOR NEW CONSTRUCTION. 12' OR WIDER MAY BE •NEEDED TO ACCOMADATE ALL USE. 2O 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. 3O 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 DESIGN CRITERIA DAKOTA COUNTY, MINNESOTA rip Barton-Aschm Associates. Inc. . �i, rww ww. t,'sww sso ww.r.`..rN Ssa �. Figure 4 b. PRF 71 RED TRALL CORRIDOR Segment 1,111yda_le Road (CSAH 45) Description: This-segment connects to the proposed Dakota County Regional Trail—Big Rivers Segment along the Mississippi River at Lilydale and the Lilydale-Harriet Island Regional Park. The trail could be located along Lilydale Road. Physical Features: Topography of this segment is characterized by the Mississippi River bluff that rises about 90 feet above the floodplain.Above the bluffs the native landscape consists of rolling terrain with mized hardwood forest and a variety of wetlands in the low areas. Native soils identified by the Soil Conservation Service in the"Soil Survey of Dakota County"include silt loam and sandy loam within the river floodplain,sandy loam on the slopes above the floodplain and Copaston loam on the flatter upland area above the river bluffs.All of these soils are moderately well drained with some being excessively 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 consists of a mix of residential, commercial,and industrial uses.The Lilydale Yacht Club is located between the Chicago Northwestern railroad tracks and the Mississippi River.Trunk Highway 13 passes over Ldydale Road.Development along TH 13 includes the Ulydale Tennis Club, an office building,an NSP natural gas facility,and retail businesses. Opportunities and Constraints.- This segment provides a trail link from Mendota Heights to the proposed Big Rivers Trail and Harriet-Island regional park. A long steep grade is required to traverse the river bluff Slopes of about 10 percent for a distance of about one-quarter mile are necessary• Plat rest stops should be provided along this segment at about 200-foot intervals. Retaining wall will be necessary in some locations to create the trail bench along Uydale Road. This segment will not be suitable for wheel chairs or skaters. Constructing a fully accessible trail that traverses the Mississippi River Bluffs is not feasible. 9 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 PROPOSED TRAIL EXISTING TRAIL a �y DALE H RRIET i GION L � r � LIL A • Y CHT LUB 4 10% SLOF E KO AR D FOR ® LI YDA E )ISTAN R auE r A E U1R D C UB ap 00008�E000000000 000000 O�OOOOOG�O EXISTI LLEY • PROPOSED I RIV PARK REGIONAL R L VALLEY P pal NORTH URBAN REGIONAL TRAIL DAKOTA COUNTY, MINNESOTA NORTH URBAN REGIONAL A SEGMENT 1 - LILYDALE ROAD Batton-Aschman Associates. Inc. 111 W"ha 11-iwb 356 .YY IL{WI ■ Person Figure 6 Seg rent 2 Valley Park Description: 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 Lilydals 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. Sails 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 • Trail head facilities in Valley Park at Marie Avenue may need to be improved. • The existing eight-foot wide trail needs to be widened in the future to accommodate all users. • 12 PE 041 II M _2 its - - *,� one r �,� _, • . I It own -vti6RTH URBAN REGIONAL TRAIL � . ► DAKOTA COUNTY, • SE00ENT (NORTH L�■� ��-� r,-4 r�ri G am .�. . NORTH • DAKOTA COUNTY, MINNESOTA NORTH URBAN REGIONAL TRAIL ISEGMENT • I Segment 3—TH 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 impart 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. Opportrsnities 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-of-way 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 could be regraded to match the trail. Vegetative screening and low modular block retaining walls may be needed to reduce impacts to front yards.A ditch located along the north side of the TH 110 frontage road would need to be filled and replaced by a storm sewer as part of the • trail construction. Development Plan.• • About 6,500 feet of new trail with fence and drainage provisions must be constructed. • Trail signing and markings should be installed. • • 14 i��■��•� Ems• ;-- .� . �03, - �► 10 RhA •rr/ �- _. �"A/ WE J� MEN 'piDO g �;% fit' ``}.Jy�'f: i' 'r' II`d t - a M161 No P�lawl rim Nunn lalmp -in" _�_,,._,_�� ..�NORTH URBAN REGIONAL TRAIL • • • URBAN SEGMMT Seement 4--Olivia L Dodge Progeny Description: • This segment connects from TH 110 to Charlton Street. The trail would cross Mendota Road,be aligned through the western and northern portions of the Olivia L Dodge Properly, and would connect to Charlton Street south of Marie Avenue. An alternate route mould be on the west edge of the Henry-Sibley High School property from TH 110 north along the east side of Warrior Road to the existing city trail. Then is no existing trail along this route. Physical Features: Topography of this segment is characterized by rolling terrain and suburban development. The native landscape has been modified by construction of roadways and buildings. The right-of-way area north of TH 110 is characterized by moderately steep slopes adjacent the roadway, drainage swales, small detention areas, tall grasses, and a powerline corridor. 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 is generally residential,both single family and multi-family. The area north of TH 110 and west of Delaware Road is Henry Sibley High School. The Olivia L Dodge Property is currently private undeveloped wetlands and open space with rolling terrain. Opporftnities and Constraints: Objections to the route being located along Marie Avenue have been expressed by numerous residents along the south side of Marie Avenue. The trail is proposed to connect to Charlton Street by utilizing an existing utility easement south of the three houses in the southwest quadrant of the Marie Avenue intersection. This alignment would avoid crossing any driveway along Marie Avenue. The trail will provide an opportunity for trail users to experience the natural setting and wildlife existing within the Olivia L Dodge Property. There is a segment of existing eight-foot wide trail from Marie Avenue 800 feet south to Warrior Road and on the north side of the school property along Marie Avenue. The alternate route trail could connect with this existing segment. The alternate trail could provide a link to Henry Sibley High School for the community. is 15 Development Plan.• • About 3,800 feet of new trail must be constructed within the Olivia L Dodge Property. • Acquire three-acre parcel adjacent to the Olivia L Dodge Property. Acquire from the Dodge Nature Center. • Trail signing and markings should be installed. Additional regulatory signage may be required within the Olivia L 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. • 16 �' � � li.'�1�JFo Ili► PRIANTIM Mom MAN)"M .. •� _ � -_ ' ' JIB �o4-4 MUM Its ITO - PROPOSED TRAIL FINN laid - • - • . EXISTING � ' r• r,• I • Segment 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 L 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 and suburban development. The native landscape has been modified by construction of roads and bindings. 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 Comity"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 Charlton 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 walkaway from the street. 17 Development Plan: e • About 1,000 feet of new trail must be constructed along Charlton Street to Garlough Elementary School. Trail BMPUng and markings should be installed. Screening may be required along any residential yards(vegetation and/or low walls). • Eristing concrete sidewalk needs to be replaced and widened in the future to accommodate all users. A retaining wall is likely needed to provide boulevard width from new trail. • 18 • Segment 6--Garlough Park/Marthaler Park 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 area 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 corner of Marthaler Park.band 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 to Kraft Road. The existing trail crosses Kraft Road at a mid-block location and connects with a 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 may be 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 corner of the park. • 19 III�I it-ifl I ,� �, :. • �- •J EXISTING TRAIL . . . _ _ .� PERSON- AR ;- � • • MAUI • I� • 1 •IC 1912• Development Plan: a Existing eight-foot wide trail in Garlough and Marthaler Park needs to be widened in the future to accommodate all users. a Some short segments of existing trail should be reconstructed to flatten slopes. a Trail signing and markings should be installed. a About 1,000 feet of new trail must be constructed in Marthaler Park to connect with Wentworth Avenue. a Trail head facilities in Marthaler Park may need to be unproved. Segment 7-Wentworth Avenue(CR 81 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 sons 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 Hall 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 tram 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. 20 This segment of Wentworth Avenue has commercial development along most of the frontage. • The trail crosses driveways for businesses along Wentworth Avenue. The trail crosses South Robert Street at the signalized intersection with Wentworth Avenue. The Average Daily Traffic(ADT)is about 29,000 on South Robert Street and 8,000 to 9,000 on Wentworth Avenue. Consideration should be given to developing a walk or trail along the south side of Wentworth Avenue from Humboldt Avenue east to Oakdale Avenue. This walk or trail would provide additional capacity for trail users and pedestrians along Wentworth Avenue near South Robert Street. Right-of-way acquisition is necessary to construct new trail or walk along the south side of Wentworth Avenue. Development Plan.• • In the future, existing trail along Wentworth Avenue may need to be widened or a new trail or walk may need to be constructed along the south side of Wentworth Avenue to accommodate all users. • Trail signing and markings should be installed. 21 (ill - - - i:n,- - . , � ��-.�. �1 r Ir NOW �� J I� � JI u�� ii■ r� ii-RIMA 0frTm F'NORTH Chi AL TRAIL . . ,. PARK SEGMENT .- Segment B-- dale Avenue (CSAH 73) Description: This segment consists of exudng eight-foot tram along the west side of Oakdale Avenue from Wentworth north to Thompson Avenue, and existing six-foot trail along the east side of Oakdale Avenue from Thompson Avenue north to Emerson Avenue. The segment along the west side of Oakdale Avenue crosses driveways for two single-family residences located just north of Wentworth Avenue. North of these residences,the trail is located along open space owned by West St.Paul that is the proposed site for a municipal golf course. 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 Oakdale Avenue is generally single family residential. The West St. Paul Sports Center a ball field complex and proposed city golf course site are located along Oakdale Avenue. Opportunities and Constraints: Existing eight-foot trail along the west side of Oakdale Avenue south of Thompson Avenue can be used. The trail crosses Oakdale Avenue and Thompson Avenue at an intersection controlled by stop signs. The segment north of Thompson Avenue along the east side of Oakdale impacts the front yards of seven homes. The trail crosses five driveways for these homes. The existing six-foot trail needs to be widened to at least eight feet. The space between the trail and curb is about L5 feet and is less than the minimum desirable width. The right-of-way behind the curb varies,so it is likely right-of-way acquisition is necessary at some properties to permit trail construction. Widening the existing trail along the east side of Oakdale Avenue would require temporary easements. Vegetative screening and low retaining walls may be necessary to reduce impacts to front yards. 22 iDevelopment 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 he 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 ,figment 9—Thompson County Park Description: This segment of the trail will pass through the southern edge of Thompson County Park. Thompson County Park is a large open space with parking,portable rest rooms, and picnic facilities around Thompson Lake. The trail will enter the park's southwest corner and connect to a new pedestrian bridge over the Lafayette Freeway(TH 3). The proposed pedestrian bridge would link Thompson County Park with F.aposia Park in South St.Paul. Physical Features: Topography of this segment is characterized by native landscape within Thompson County Park,and consists of mixed hardwood forest,wetlands,grasslands, and open areas at Thompson Lake. 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 poorly drained. Soils disturbed by development can not be generally characterized. Land Use; Area land use bordering Thompson County Park is generally residential. Lafayette Freeway • borders the east side of the park. Open space exists within the park. Opportunities and Constrainta.- The trail will provide access to Thompson County Park,and park facilities will be available for trail users. A new pedestrian bridge over Lafayette Freeway is required. Development Plan.• • About 1,400 feet of new trail along with a pedestrian bridge over the Lafayette Freeway must be constructed. • Trails connecting to park facilities should be constructed. • Trail signing and markings should be installed. • Trail head facilities in Thompson County Park may need to be improved. 24 E-- m �I&i V -I l.J THOMPSON COUNTY luun PARK ■ � ` � '� A�i':' Imo--- �t Fol I Frill Ir min ELMO PROPOSED L7 ■-. m OJ GOLF COURSE m am] lei -- ,ISTING TRAIL, Jim OPOSED TRAIL i� OA MA PA ma a=wm -mR4ORTH URBAN REGIONAL TRAIL NORTH URBAN REGIONAL TRAIL Barton-Aschman Associates, Inc. SEGMENT 9 - THOMPSON COUNTY P Figure gqei+ment 10-Xanesia Park Donis Ravine Description: • This segment will provide a route through Kaposia Park,a large open space consisting of mixed hardwood forest and open areas with park facilities and Simon's Ravine. Parking, rest rooms,and picnic facilities exist within the park. This segment could connect to the Northern Dakota County Regional Trail along the Mississippi riverfront if crossings of Concord Street(TH 56)and the Chicago Northwestern railroad tracks are provided. The trail route could be located along the bottom portion of Simon's Ravine through Kaposia Park and continuing east of 19th Avenue along the ravine to the proposed trailhead along Concord Street. The route near the channel along the bottom of the ravine provides a gradual slope. However,bank movement and erosion may be significant issues for trail construction and maintenance. Nineteenth Avenue crosses Simon's Ravine on a 50-foot high embankment. This embankment presents a significant obstacle. A temporary solution for the trail would be to provide steps or a steep ramp with switch backs for bikers to walk to the top or bottom of the embankment. A permanent solution for a trail crossing of the 19th Avenue embankment may be provided if a bridge is constructed for 19th Avenue over Simon's Ravine or a large culvert is constructed through the embankment. The permanent solution requires cooperative agreements between the agencies responsible for Simon's Ravine.The permanent trail route under 19th . Avenue near the bottom of Simon's Ravine provides a gradually sloped route to access the proposed trailhead at Concord Street near the ravine. Physical Peaftmm- Topography of this segment is characterized by the native landscape of Kaposia Park, and consists of rolling and steep terrain with mixed hardwood forest,wetlands in low areas,and open areas near Lafayette freeway. Simon's Ravine is a major drainageway that passes through Kaposia Park. The ravine has steep hillsides and an active channel along its length. Native soils identified in the "Survey of Dakota County" are generally characterized as sandy loam within the upland areas and within the drainage ways. The sandy loam soils are well drained. Soils disturbed by development can not be generally characterized. Land Use: Area land use bordering Kaposia Park is generally residential.Lafayette Freeway borders the west side of the park. Open space exists within the park. Single family residential development exists south of the Ravine east of 19th Avenue. Industrial and commercial development exist to the south along Concord Street. 25 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 200-foot 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 when 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 riverf ont 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. 0 Culvert(s)or pedestrian bridge(s)may be required along segments of the ravine depending upon the trail alignment. a A pedestrian crossing of TH 56 should be provided. 26 • 'T.1 �I�I� 1�lip :Ir+'r% J� II~ ��• +J • ,� I Ole 11 iY•:r (■ ■r� V■■!WIN ■r A•I I■�• I �� 1 I�IllrltI 1 1 21 M WE AM Mal ZEN • • - • •�■• j �■■ •�� a7■�. Imo•. �� __�.�� --' •�iC`ii �� I '� I�I lug 1� ■ ONI��!L� �WO C� • +� IANOJT , IN i Imo. .,! �. .� • r h ■ _ _ ;- - �■I �� i. �' -�: _l^i i�1: � ' 7 �\ /��` fiiil* f Yip '�I _-� lmff 6. IMPLEMENTATION ISSUES Major issues resulting from development of the trail and possible solutions are summarized below: A 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. T railhead 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 mi*+imizes 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 existing 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. 7. OPERATION AND MANAGEMENT Trail OVMM shin Generally,the trail will be located within public parks and public right-of-way,with the exception of the Olivia L 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 L 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 Pub is Safety and Security To provide public safety the trail will be monitored by Dakota County Park Patrol staff and local law enforcement stafL An agreement between Dakota County and the municipalities should be reached regarding provisions for law enforcement along the trail and at trail head facilities. The trail will be constructed in accordance with current design guidelines.Appropriate traffic control devices will be used at all necessary locations along the trail.Lighting and public telephones should be provided at key locations along the trail. sty�w ra�hin Land ownership along the trail corridor will remain with the public agencies that currently own the land. These agencies are responsible for the general care of the land under their ownership. The trail corridor will be maintained in accordance with the agreements established between Dakota County and the municipalities. Site specific reforestation will be necessary to restore areas disturbed by trail construction,provide privacy for adjacent private property,and enhance the park environment along the trail. Trail and Rigbt-of-WavMaintenance Maintenance of the trail will require on agency efforts. Agreements between Dakota County and the municipalities will be necessary to define Ynai tenan a responsibilities. Anticipated maintenance activities include the following items: • • Mowing along trail shoulders and trimming around sign posts. • Clearing of brush and debris along tram. • Trash pick-up at trail heads. ' Servicing portable toilets,lighting,and other trail head facilities. • Replacing signs and pavement markings. • Repairing pavement cracks. • Repairing damage to trail. • Snow plowing. • Trail resurfacing. L PUBLIC AGENCY IlWOLVEMEW/PUBLIC SERVICES Cities Municipalities along the trail corridor participated in the review of this development plan and provided comments. Approval by the City is required in those rases where the regional trail traverses City park land. 28 • Municipalities where the trail is located will enter into.cooperative agreements regarding construction, operation and maintenance of the tram.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. MnM The proposed trail corridor is located along Trunk Highway 110 within MulIM right-of- way,and will cross TH 56. Mn/DOT approval is required for these portions of the trail. MetcaRWitan 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. 8. CITIZEN PARTICIPATION Public participation in 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 0 Public Information Meeting on this document 10. PUBLIC AWARENESS Consistent with other Dakota County Regional Parks,the County will promote public awareness of the North Urban Regional Trail through various forms of media information 29 and materials. Park services and programs will be advertised and promoted in brochures, flyers,newsletters, and news releases. In addition,the County will provide information directly to local park and recreation agencies and school districts. Special exhibits and demonstrations promoting park use may be held at the Dakota County Fair and other major events. Dakota County will distribute park information to local Chambers of Commerce and other organizations that could benefit from trail facilities use. Regionwide awareness of Dakota County Regional Trails will be coordinated with the Metropolitan Council. Information on the North Urban Regional Trail would become part of the Council's Regional Parks map and other Council publications. Tours for the Council, Metropolitan Parks,and Open Space Commission and staff will be conducted on a timely basis to observe progress and create awareness of the regional trail. • 30 APPENDIX � ��h` �s�h� �f A.Y. .�`� % -..~., �..`•„ 4 t�.i " n°ik i c i'il.. �'3•,: Jl. ::y`:.:?C;?: , §: 1.i..i a �• },LD:;iV•':,, Y.. v.k.<:y�b.%y�::v95h:•a:k •i!h.�k�..y'x.+`.i6hrif:eY<5',:":n:.`2n.�•$'y h@ .. h ,,: $'�L� �'b'•c' :.,•� :�`:�?".w::.,i`.Yi:�:'., '4:"..'si�`��:a?�??E�L'im:r�:<�.. r• SUMMARY OF COST ESTIMATES FOR PREFERRED CORRIDOR JUNE 17, 1994 REVISED FBRUARY 22, 19% REVISED MARCH 4, 19% 1-ULYDALE ROAD 1400 $111A00 2-VALLEY PARK 8000 $76.000 3-TH 110 65M $518A00 4-OUVIA L DODGE PROPERTY 38M $354.000 5-CHARLTON STREET 1000 $54A00 6-GARLOUGI+PARK/MARTHALER PARK 4300 1 $113= 7-WEMWORTH AVENUE 3500 S3 000 8-OAKDALE AVENUE mm $57.000 9-THOMPSON COUNN PARK 1200 S606A00 10-KAPOSIA PARK/SpV M RAVINE 5200 S62 = i •� 52.514Q00 1)Awmrod typical trdl=mbuWm Wd veb minor vjad DOES NOT INCLUDETRAIL HEAD FACILMES OR R.O.W. Edbuto bawd on anaptwl pim. 3) ftJ d Admbibdttr . ;do*baw,wowatbp 4 tmW9 fib.pw",Kc-aavm*d to bs 26% byloWnAubmw ML "DOES NOT INCLUDE TRAIL HEAD FACILITIES, RIGHT-OFWAY,OR 10TH AVENUE BRIDGEICULVERT. 1 C +`.; h5.. yf. ..•.t;..M..,.. hY r� ;,:3y'�rS: \Y:..; Ti0'�'i Ygi..V3<�,J,F� .4£•.>n 'v;�'7�n:;v$+'.;bi4 ,�1:�.;i.pa. }•v' i :>jy�; 'F•'i .;Av�^�i�t•e:v °,i`f.4... .,p: .. '�'y�4'•3:c�4+ .i3: .a::%:r•...:•'.'.t�.Y•.'iy:?:i.+C .'_.o�.�+'':'&��,y;y�.�;..,,�vr� '4X,.,.�':,^`„C;:.`�n�,.v"',��,x,.:��.".d/.' rc;;•i,;i; ' ✓ `Vb pa�' �.�'rg'�+;•��,•�:" Y! :� i�♦(�}��}�{��3�••.� �.p:.:,cs' '.,,;�ar;o... '9ew::Cx F:`'`':s�.. •.�';°�`�` •� r:5.., x4:'•,::4y :�£ �5�� .��ff,R1.�1,.T.!!ii.• �.es�. �!tt '4< •.xJ+�+`� :,+v +`�i i � ` .%� ,�i3.:�2`•i 6t' i � " y e,+.. .?o-;'�.,w:p�`�;•V.�<.3�`q ,r.�:�.:.�."F,`•�. i?�as5�4,•�;.Y''�'�.''�i.N.u•,ttti[[v�":��y";<.;4 q'>;'^S:x��:. d A''�'�",,1;• ip $g4:4.<,..�ry1x�'(ry �wx /► s j ems•. .Y.tr tiY +� ro �4°Y''£ki7:7VR 1rRk3� fi�l,��Y��•''•��'s •��•, '�'�'t°b�:o;,: ,?c.�i�'J'a' :o;X� ,k:$,r'�.'x�,4s`�•��.%t,�.::.4....�.: iy: ,Ap, Yfi:;;Y••s;'.at:Y .3xR'4•..•.oi:..,y•. .i:.o,,:,R�o: ra :•.£° � "•4;a:; 4•,�ifi : p� .::a2��.:,63:c„ y ;3; k+ .: viY,`.3:;:�'�+3'^S�`ctf�:,��C,'A.o...g.;�b�ra�;n`�,....'3, `°'.Y�`/.,dr s::.�., .•.�::. •�:�, rF:h. . :',t,+, ;., :e:'+:vx;t.; r:'.?� ��.',cef,3.it:v: .ar•Ec:iob.: f.•CuJ.,o.::.J':.'••'x,`u.Y < '.tti;;4:3s�,3,•+x ;:o. '$,'C:p,,:: _C;: .. r .��•.,x.k:.:n.......,::rtp_!9;'s,.,�"r . .3 :.,_:.;:.:. ,4v 9.sS.:::....: . .. . ...:...tr•::;:::•�:....`.. a::..,.:+.:;a:.a.a.:;;::<..:::..::.:..f+.:�:;:,^.;•,:::"�..:..:a A,a}..;s SEGMENT 1 UILYDAUE ROAD PRELIMINARY CONSTRUCTION COST ESTIMATE JUNE 17,1994 ��,�e4�•. :4 vq UN ,.}3c `.,P� :,:• .:y. gk:>Y'.'.i£ +,' '�; i:x;.33 ,.4:::.,.:Z.::• 3"4+$Y>. •rtL: ;'i•.;o5;c .'i $. ..'y= `.:r'.. >; ti' v'sbt r�} y :. Y^p'b F+ 9:5•iC „4# + S. w`•);C)F 7 ' Sai Jt:;.>:�� Y�V�IV 1Il.I�;Mama +. ..'�y.'i=;o„ „ T�,,•}.`b�:!rwtca t:,•... 4 .,;snY.,ux.:y; .. .. ... ti;n5;i:tt,:f:;•Gio::K•r'i:R `...; ..v.::w:,, ti: W 1 ' RAIL 1 l 1,400 30.00 42,000 R AININ WALL< 0' N L. . 300 100.00 30,000 SIGNING k KINGS• L. r 1 2000.00 2,000 ESWATING CONTINGENCY— 20z 14,800 TOTAL ESTIMATED CONSTRUCTION CO $88,800 $22,200 000,;:.;:.:.,.• ;.... • ^.,.::. :'.:3....:. ,...£.y�,t,•w;sdb.�:.fA�:c, .. •; �.;o;"risay..tp':.3`3.3g2: y`:`•:.' � SEGMENT 2 VALLEY PARK PRELIMINARY CONSTRUCTION COST ESTIMATE JUNE 17,1994 , �� {�.,N. .. `b:) 4'o(�y ¢ �`C;it::, ��.■4.v:C}t^w.!i,.v'i'•v::'tS.:?uwv. .4r.:."•4 t3,:0.. y,Q+.( .:,: ''�+:j�c ��QF.4�F�:::opY:36: 5•:.j;�i�i,,�,,ie; rt.• :i•SAIY��• 'ti�`3::i,;'y:ir.;a:,o2�s:rS�9.Na.��+,E ,.: NEW 10' TRAIL 1 l. . 1,600 30.00 48,000 IGNING k 11ARKWG5 1 2000.00 2,000 WAN N IN NCY — 0$ 10,000 TO AL ESTIMATED CONSTRUCTION COST $60,000 15,000 PROJECT,MATED ... ::i,�<i<.•t.,,;•.^..'M�:C,v�i:;;4:t.:;F'ii.Y}•4�:i;;^.:}I:i4;::4':i'�3.:. 5,OOO 1 Assumed typical trait construction cost with tumor grading.DOES NO]21QLOE IPA WAO FAgU1iES. 1)Estimale based an conceptual plan. 3)Project Administration.design lees.engineering h testing ser*es,permits.etc. .wa by Bunn-A■ im m As*wW**.hre n2 r;yt. . c:`.. :k� 5.�c,: : Q 3i' a. }`Q`.}.' "!```b\�,„.,.7-Ri.:t�}tpi .�� '- .F+�.:.�,�:.•.'`.y� ,�,o�y.:... i W-2. t,04011,�n--. .Am I ftrmll: J N+' �•+S :t,¢•;`�5}', •p n?:.R�:k�. , :��;f v, �':. ny�.:^:x�S.:itjj�,RLatd`:".`J.:�Q.....°`.S?,?<FY.ni�`i:}'£w � �.'<4.:. SEGMENT 3 TH 110 PRELIMINARY CONSTRUCTION COST ESTIMATE JUNE 17,1"4 REVISED FEBROARY 1,1"6 i q NEW 10'TRAIL(1) LF. 65M $30 $196= FENCE(ALONG TH 110 SHLDJ I.F. 4400 $20 $86= SIGNING&MARKINGS L S 1 S2AM S2A00 STORM SEWER R TH 110 W00 L F. 20M $30 $60A00 ESTIMATING CONTINGENCY-20%(2) $69= LTOTAL ESTIMATED CONSTRUCTION COST $414 000 NON-CONMWC1fON COSTS-25%(3) $103AW SEGMENT 4 • SIBLEY HIGH SCHOOL/DODGE FAMILY PROPERTY PRELIMINARY CONSTRUCTION COST ESTIMATE JUNE 17.1994 REVISED FBRUARY 22,1996 REVISED MARCH A.1996 n.,'i':M�N, ' R ��55yy NEW la TRAIL(1) LF. 35M $30 $114A00 LAND ACQUISITION AC 3 $DA00 $120A00 SIGNING 8:MARKINGS LS. 1 $2.OM $2 000 ESTIMATING CONTINGENCY-20%(2) a$70AW TOTAL ESTIMATED CONSTRUCTION COST NON-CONSTRUCTION COSTS-26%P� I umedty M hag wouctim cal wlh minor padinp. DOES NOT INCLUDETRAIL HEAD FACLLRiESOR R.O.W. ft&baoad on conoaptud Pln.od A WdmloN dWpn fw,w4h@ ft dtaotbg aarvkaw,pamdb,ate-nr madto ba 2S% b llutan-Asclamm Aaodstm Ioc 0 :'C+'p`:tk.Cuc f,`t•::> :>c:tb�}:;;:•.v�G.:.�;£fw?t?":�;,+"c�...R :•?;x t:?.,�r..+tiN.xa�d3�:.:`r: ,Y,c:<#`in': k',�k;a'3::;::.<;,, .::n^e:siG Gt W9,i' �;\v .,*•• 1;:.<:;R,`�,:J.; s �,•:•"K .yn,:•# s y,»v. >><..i�:''.y?r.. �: .vv.?}.�rd;;♦�.,.t.:.`>ry•ri,":,s\•:y -. f '"y:2 :!S`"n` Y Er>`�S#: C•'y� xc ., rY n5'. "`',•',+��"';.. : "s:'v''sa3}i�:}"c?/.+; ♦•, :u9.�- � „�"`• ^ `a..:}eL�•:} Y .�:. ,x. `. �6'+S � x:"`+�p�q.kq:K�,,:. .KV;� '`wv�,"n�.. •" CK" A+"` f�•'yi'#n`�",3? , <r,a ,;:?G. n^�'iCy/s`tkr.P).�,*SS+x\ "•`�?°�,'v.>`,9f`:,M 9\• r �.: `•"Y. �\ 'A' 'v. \::''C. Sv:`., �.LCG,�,Ili�k��'�,��'. N "+" rs`i�'�♦:'�'.�,;`•°,. .. ''Tsi�•+"'�:?7£'.c�:;.'fJ,i'ok"+:l �' '•v' "�k'^'�v .�fi :;y;�:. `. .c•%s'. ♦ a:'fcy2cv,:;. vbx •r4; ::3'}t�.•• k,�,�?;G .xJ;.S,+'.i#s}y>?... 9�?}.£.a.,?i.' io..3.?c:.�i6?T.:rid+•'"r?�;":R'`,'C.;�c♦m5». ;;..•.:��.,.�5'��h..k.st,:?4,'S:i •$"::`"��',am3��k�i,:�7`:'tE."$?°:32c:1•+�;. :;:��+:''kf:�..a Y'�?.x��f�p•,�,+,. + SEGMENT 5 CHML70N STREET PRELIMINARY CONSTRUCTION COST ESTIMATE JUNE 17.1"4 REVISED FERRUARY 22,I"d t :o..+'cT`.jux: NEW 117TRAL(1) LF. 1000 $30 $30A00 SCREENING I F. 200 $20 $4A00 SIGNING&MARIONGS LS. 1 $2A00 52.000 ESTIMATING CONTINGENCY-20%(2) $7.200 TOTAL ESTNMTED CONMWCnON COST $43200 NON-CONSTRUCTION COSTS-25%(3) $101100 sk. SEGMENT 6 GARLOUGH PARK J MARTHALER PARK PRELIMINARY CONSTRUCTION COST ESTIMATE JUNE 17, 1"4 REVISED FEBRUARY22, 1"6 `', : ?�CP> .. .y �Z G� •' v'SAY: :•d•J>. ". •r4+""ti♦.v" ...♦ Kew+ RYSR#r.`"'".r. � .. ,:.... .l.. :...`. a :cca T.::.:,..+:.:. •.s. ??;£ ..:riq x" ,G..:.::.;:r i...•..+,. ` .r�:.n. ..425;wni:.. 'S�:'✓r ,.�.`s'?c'> NEw1aTRAILc1) LF. 1100 $30 $33= SIGNING&MARKWA LS. 1 $2.000 $2A00 RETAINING WALL(a10) L.F. 200 $200 $40,000 ESTIMATING CONTWGENCY-20%(2) A$l TOTAL ESTIh4ATED CONSIRUCTION COST NONCONSTRUCTION COSTS-26%(3) 1)ANWTW 1YPb'W troll cmdnxbm uR with mtna pmft. DOES NOT INCLUDE TRAIL HEAD FACILITIES OR R.O.W. Edmdo bow on=wspA Plan. 3) Pmod Admh * don,daaO Ua,NO"tlD i twdng mim,PwMb.do-m=W to be 26% )6utm-Aadmm Anodatm Lac. :: .,..;.:,•: >s•a• nk':;�i. v:-.-iv••taS:'-: .ar- +F;f-+v %�.. vf.,%�..�•�ryi:'^^„$%`F'.at+% "..'';o,'ii%�C..,2.Q:.-,..'..YCy¢�ht�;•i.:?h.+ 'gro.•.:.,;r3:.,. '?':;,`"'�''`i:£'�'?4h'�':i:5"k%X,:<G.SY-:.�.:tiS,-t. +:.�qr'?`;k•+:y'O`:"o'.::si'rr; :k k,aV`-'•$f�+-':wF•�g�•:: 'i�ti{�+.k'ft-'O v�`S�a<�,.i�:b."��"?;;:':i t•i?`vNLal.v, `A�i.:f^:..r`:.A.��. �.lY; ��.;5• �}•`�iGa'.`�:X i-... .��`%��-��t"��i3 f.•,.�,,�«5:_f''-•a�r.':�.t :"e+�':o,.:}: .:�.;F>,� y��/� /� .>::�kn �`y ,:;i�,oia ::.�.)�'� '>'^:<2Y�ktax`''a�v.:. fA.g�i�;!"'2�:`�4`�'•:^i3'�`�; ;S: 9'i>'%av��3.>:��,.o,�"E�Oi,,:,.ty�.f�a;Y�•F�1/....:. `i•t lT -rf`,``•F ,<• xi�~b}'"::'72 �� -aik3 $+: f..:.. •%- v,,: .a. x R �<:..;2.a'L'r5i;•� pF?. 'ttn>?vk.. n'. 7i.,?:�>,{ ' S'i.°rit >R.• o .rf. o.� Lt,'\•k:. ,� .� ., •� :�,<.�:rEa.`..,� ,�::ikY\A+i:.v'irv.k �: r ,��. a��.k:��:.,,k:. a`.'.'k if�$...5 w+}- 'Q.S'S'Y• Ys a €: .. +!.r?cZ.,•. '\+ +: rj,,•.p� .5-:- t ��•sg o:.o..,ri;,.' . x.:t x+•:i•\11��•F�f4Ai �! f�R ��•�i.` .� .°Q�,R•'<+��.t,,•^'ct Y�C.•.ti:,�,&'x,R•yA .�.••r::F/r •.: ,. ivy. -.. +. .u;;.:...•: y,.�,-::.,,yssy : � .oii2::; "''b.`s; s�o''.u",`.`£.,'�1...��?t�: > �'Y"�'b-t:9.:^Ifr.-.ti: _' �::: = ,<.:ka-�As• +.f.:�..in� Af.. a3'£,> Y:�so •',xs:..;;?i §•:. U.t;":. �.•gs-+.7>'• o��h:,'Ff;;r,;';.,. ,,.hri.::,4:'n.;i;•>...............j• 'e:�e`��A. ......... . =E•`• ^x+o�A•• o •k:. Q££, ?„+gffitt`.i4,Sjuo.xbasJ•.nc::or-;rYY2::dit:+sf:;A>`s: Sy,K`CF%,' iFy:^'Ce:>:.+r:.baa+�s>�3z�•-�.'i..2.+F•:+:clr"x<•Fi:aa+.;,.o.�x,,.;:za•.:S.:a�....t.: :.;. „- •q•^..-:..: .:.v:'S SEGMENT 7 WENTWORTH AVENUE PRELIMINARY CONSTRUCTION COST ESTIMATE, JUNE 17,1994 „y. xM1 :>',:.••' 3C' "o \-a6,; .�� .:i.Ss.. .a pEr:, .t;. ,:Y g ¢ v ' U A.T.'x$^i. f iK,r +7✓`--Yd,Q, ,•;£FF ;y':k'- '•,i's,.!2Y.. U .1lAa '4:. kJ4 ':v.::e•:c - 4 NEW 1 ' 1 LF. 0 30.00 0 SCRLLMG L . 0 20.00 0 SIGNING & NARKING$ L . 1 2000.00 2,000 $INATING CONTINGENCY — 20x 2 400 TOTAL ESTIMATED CONSTRUCTION COST u $2,400 600 00 • SEGMENT 8 OAWALE AVENUE PRELIMINARY CONSTRUCTION COST ESTIMATE JUNE 17,1994 F-,. ^s.kq:..,F.:f,,.t+,�3,-'>;ko.-:•oSB:cif?:;r•, r;:<ie+:k. +ii Y.'+ .:•L:.: 3• <' GM:�,, .SF a :>v'+ L Vi. 'ii:• F'n0. <.t:•F A:.:y'�:+i'•.�;..wiat• ✓�-'?t�^>' <A. afro' : 4; ?7 �.¢■r.. '.: . -� ., :+;�, £':'•%. Y.-i•`4� x:p`-' ".^`3• ii>•lr'fY,•a-A2x ?, :'..' A 4' �Jn:+•... .:..:. ...W.sC•.k6'�bei:Y v.7KY�y.;,��•,.'- .` � ,� :rf',M'x- N•.v- Fvi. w 8' RAIE i L . 1,200 10.00 12,000 %NING & WKINGSLS. 1 2000.00 2,000 SCREENING l. . 1,200 20.00 24,000 ESTDA71NG CONTMENCY — 2 1 1 7,600 TOTAL ESTIMATED CONSTRUCTION COST 545,600 S11,400 ..... ... >,':>hvk»A.no.v.>..y^3 A?.:'. 4.i->.ryv 1 Assumed lotcal troll cortstrackn cog wRb miow grading.DOES NOi DaUDE TRAIT"FAMRES. 2)Eslcrwle based an cat teal plan. 3)Project Adndnislrotion,design fees.ngmwmq&tmimq servm perndl9,etc. • m..r..ry e+rtoe•Aselanm A.aodme.hm. ' C - '.I ••.v.v. 'v off` :• "h: l; `. .'.�.',Y". .�}, 4,X n}J'•,:.:..ti:;:.,:,Y.;.,.:,.. � � : :'•. 1. :.. }••'�,,..�/�•{�,tyF,. ,a' •�:�Q"�Si+ ,'�;r""C$S��?,•'4��ti `N.:,ye: .. G: '•�2:AY„� :w. ... �Vi1,KL4:?' - } �@>,r .N-^• w7 v-"Ae�;n SEGMENT 9 THOMPSON COUNTY PARK PRELIMINARY CONSTRUCTION COST ESTIMATE JUNE 17,1994 :3.-•:.Jo: <r +. 'v�'x.:iC�.�?�;. .a�v ;,•-a. �a,J: }.w - ;::; .x:;.'..::,>w.v:ts,J3�:� NEW 1(r TRAIL(1) LF. IA= $30 S42.000 TH3-PEDESMMBRIDGE S.F. 30M $120 $360.000 SIGNING&MARWNGS L.S. 1 S2A00 S2A00 B7W7NGC NINGE4CY-20%C2) SsoAm TOTAL ESTIMATED CONSTRUCTION COST $464J= NON CONSTRUCTION COSTS-26%0) $121.200 SEGMENT 10 KAPOSIA PARK/SIMON'S RAVINE PRELIMINARY CONSTRUCTION COST ESTIMATE JUNE 17,IM REVISED FDRUARY 1.1996 ».afi+.e':StStA'��'.i`4'•J .•>''.;.`6;'�.•`u:a�#2c'6•a:`C+f':�EV.:n z::-, ,J)i' :'., ,S¢¢..if`l.S•n"};": S s{: - .�,�.'.: � '�„a � �.h.;. Yg:.�.aF. �• „r�� •. x n ,`,'h'.'C:,:sv x:<s:'u-. 4:sai:%:.� Y`r { � eva""' fp.".ti; RAJ � �'S-�•o .�eY��a`+Ya4L• ;<:a F: :,}"a•r..�%caad• ;LV;' :✓"'��,4: •Jh,`-~'�9}G'"a:4':`-7 : .. ,ue. CRY }v.C,. .,...:: an,«.`;.WikR�uR?:.?b,'.�.�....b! 8 ?3�'Eko;.:�W'�...�...�..'.: ...:.. �:. 3: :'.%S,•a,F:q i5zwc.m:•'.',.:x:r.'::,;k:- NEW 101TRAIL(1) L.F. 5200 $30 $156A00 SIGNNG&MARKINGS L.S. 1 S2.000 $2A00 STORM SEWER L.F. 500 $30 S15A00 RETANNG WALL(<l07 LF. 1000 $100 $Im c D PED.BRIDGE S.F. 12M $120 $144A00 ESRMATNG CONiNGENCY-20%pJ $146J 00 TOTAL ESIVAMED CONSTRUCTION COST 9 $495A00 NON CONSTRUCTION COSTS-257E(3) $124.600 J 1f Aw mad WbW tail maimcbm NO w1h mkw Waft DOES NOT INCLUDE TRAIL HEAD FACILITIES OR RA.W. Es kwo boo an sonceptuW piss. s► Pmod Admi i 11i dWp Ism.wigbmim A t@OD enr1, pw ts.sta-&wand to bs 25% by Marton-Asdumm Arod"lim BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS DAKOTA COUNTY, MINNESOTA DATE September 6 , 1994 RESOLUTION NO. 94-667 Motion by Commissioner Maher Seconded by Commissioner Richards WHEREAS, an east-west trail connection in northern Dakota County, between the two regional trail corridor segments, Big Rivers Regional Trail and Northern Dakota County Regional Trail is an important and necessary connection; and WHEREAS, Barton-Ashman,Associates, under contract with Dakota County has identified a trail corridor, and WHEREAS, Dakota County,with Barton-Ashhman,Associates, has been working with staff from Lilydale, Mendota Heights, West St. Paul, South St. Paul and the Metropolitan Council; and WHEREAS, a draft Master Plan has been prepared for said corridor, and WHEREAS,the review of the draft Master Plan by the staff of the Metropolitan Council is necessary prior to designation of a regional trail. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Dakota County Board of Commissioners does hereby accept the Draft North Urban Regional Trail Master Plan for purposes of review by the general public and by the Metropolitan Council, and does hereby establish that a public information meeting on said Plan shalt be held on Thursday. September 22, 1994 at 6 p.m. in the Wentworth Library in West St. Paul;and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That a public notice of said meeting be published in local newspapers and that copies of said Plan be made available for public viewing at the Wentworth Library and a copy be sent to the Metropolitan Council for review, and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That the Cities of Lilydale, Mendota Heights, West St. Paul, and South St. Paul and the adjoining landowners to the proposed trail corridor be notified by mail of the September 22, 1994 public information meeting. YES NO Harris X Harris Maher x Maher astaglia X tiataglia Richards x Richards Turner ABSENT Turner Jensen x Jensen Loading 1 Loading State of Rlinnesota County of Dakota I.Joan L. Kendall, C:erk sa the Board of the County of Dakota, State of Mmnesoza. do herchr certify that I have compared the • foregoing copy of a resolution with the original minutes of the proceedmgs of the Board of County Commissioners. Dakota County. Minnesota,at their session held on the 6th day of September 1994. now on file in the County Admtntstramn Department,and have found the same to be a true and correct copy thereof p (/ Witness my nano and official seal of Dakota County this day of 7 T _ 5.3 DAKOTA COUNTY PHYSICAL DEVELOPMENT COIVAZ = OF THE WHOLE REQUEST FOR COMMITTEE REVIEW DIVISION: PHYSICAL DEVELOPMENT MEETING DATE: DEPARTMENT: Office of Planning EXPENDITURE: Contact Person: Jack Ditmore Budgeted: I Telephone Number: 891-7030 Non-Budgeted: Prepared By: John Forrest\Chantell Kadin Other Funding: N/A: X Public Comment: Informational: x ITEM: NORTH URBAN TRAIL UPDATE BACKGROUND 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 oject (Barton-Aschman, Associates) and staff members from the affected ocal 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 1. ) 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 drafi� plan can be released for public review in a June or July timeframe. No action is required on this item. xr, Louis J. Breimhurst, Director Jack Ditmore, Deputy Director PHYSICAL DEVELOPMENT DIVISION PHYSICAL DEVELOPMENT DIVISION Tandt Richardson COUNTY ADMINIST n:jfa3-22 000009 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That the Development Plan be incorporated into the. 'aunty Regional Trail Plan, County Park Policy Plan and County Bikeway System Ian that are in the process of being prepared by staff. • i BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS DAKOTA COUNTY. MINNESOTA . DATE June 29 1993 RESOLUTION NO. __ 93-579 Motion by Commissioner Maher 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 plar. for -an-mast=w-est trail connection between the Northwest (Soo Line Cooridor) and the Northeast (4ksissippi Riverfront) Trails in Dakota County, with completion of the plan 993; 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 325,000, with the funds to come from the Parks Reserve Fund balance; and YES NO Harris X Hams Maher X Maher sataglia Y sataglia Richards x Richards Turner ,x Turner Jensen 1 Jensen toeding { toeding State of Minnesota County of Dakota 1.Joan L Kendall.Clark to the Board of the County of Dakota. State of Nftnuesota,do hereov certify that 1 have compared tae �oregoing copy of a resolution with the original minutes of the proceedings of the Board of Count•Commissioners. Dakota County. >hnnesow at their session held an the 29th day of June 14 now on file to the Cuunty Administration DeparunenL and have found the same to be a true and correct copy thereof. / Witness my hand and official seal of Dakota Co ue�Conti, this v day of Clerk to the Rn.rA 4,��1_1S i�/r Rohland & Linda WiltfangSf; m O:OT,� 190,, ISSO Oakdale Avenue pHr�1 4 o West St. Paul. MN 55114 c, 401 nV September 13, 1994 Dakota County Office of Planning NURT Comments 14955 Galaxie Avenue Apple Valley, MN 55124-8579 This letter is in response to your recent public hearing notice regarding the proposed North Urban Regional Trail. Because of another meeting we will not be able to attend the hearing. We appreciate the opportunity to comment by letter. We have used and enjoyed trail systems in other areas and welcome the news and support the proposed trail plan. Vie strongly believe that a avail. such as this,is an asset to our County and the communities. The trail that passes through our neighborhood has brought life back into our area. I now see people out walking, biking, etc. as I have never seen before because we can now • enjoy these activities safely. It is also good news that the trail will be open and usable during the winter. Sincerely, Linda Wiltfang i S E P i - - 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 22, 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? z 3 - Why do you hire consultants when you have Director, Deputy Director and numerous others in the planning department? Are they not capable? A 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? Q 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 regular sealing and re-surfacing. r 6 - What are the "estimated" usage of such a path which meanders in and out of extremely high density automobile traffic? " r 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 know 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 fed up with wacky ideas from politicians and bureaucrates who have no concept of fiscal responsibilities. "Politicians are the sameall over. They promise to build a bridge where there is no river." (N. Y.hrushchev) City o� [kA WAAA Mendota Heights • August 2, 1994 Ms. Chantell Kadin, Planning Associate Dakota County Western Service Center Environmental Management Department 14955 Galaxie Avenue Apple Valley, MN 55124-8579 Dear Ms. Kadin: I am writing to thank John Forrest and yourself for attending our July 191 1994 City Council meeting and providing a presentation on the Draft Plan for the North Urban Trail. I would also like to use this opportunity to restate the comments and observations of our City Council regarding this proposed trail. The City Council is generally supportive of the Draft Plan and it appears to address our earlier comments. However, the City Council expressed some concerns regarding Valley Park and its use for the North Urban Trail. . These --concerns are focused on the potential increase in bicycle traffic 1$rough Valley Park and the widening of the trail to provide saferl.bicycle passage. on one hand, the Council is concerned:about the trail'being wide enough to be safe, while also - expressing- a concern ,about :the'. Impact 'that trail widening and trail construction may have on Valley Park. As discussed at the meeting, the criteria that would be used for prompting the widening of the trail has yet to be worked out. If trail improvements to Valley Park are not made with the initial North Urban Trail project, what would trigger the improvements and who would pay for them are concerns of City Council. Maintenance obligations also need to be clarified. In discussing safety factors .for Valley Park trail, several suggestions were considered such as the widening of trails, the flattening of slopes, separated trails for bikers and walkers, improving sight lines, etc. one Council member expressed a concern about flattening trails in the park. We would like to know the impact of these potential improvements and how that would affect the terrain and vegetation in Valley Park. The City Council requested information on projected volumes of traffic and use for the various segments of the trail, in particular, Valley Park and the Warrior Drive to Marie Avenue segment. I have attached a copy of the July 19, 1994 meeting minutes that detail the discussion with our City Council. • 1101 Victoria Curve -Mendota Heights, MN - 55118 452.1850 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•a.t their meeting on July 7.2, 1994 or are the results of staff meetings. This includes: I. A review of a fence or concrete barrier between the trail and Highway lio. 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 unde2pass 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 Urban 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 Tom Lawell, CiLy Administrator Guy Kullander, Engineering Technician City of M"A', Mendota Heights • July 7, 1994 i D;k 1994 a� Hfl;� p ' Mr. Jack Ditmore, Deputy Director M fl ao Division of Physical Development 14955 Galaxie Avenue Apple Valley, MN 55124-8579 Dear Mr. Ditmore: Thank you for the presentation and update on the draft Master Plan for the North Urban Regional Trail at the meeting on June 29, 19-44 at Wentworth Library. The City of Mendota Heights appreciates the efforts by Dakota County staff and consultants to keep us informed of the progress of the trail's design and to provide us another opportunity for input. The City of Mendota Heights recognizes that the draft Master Plan incorporates some of the suggestions we made during previous discussions. As discussed at the meeting, we would like to invite Dakota County to appear at our City Council meeting on July 19, 1994 to make a presentation on the draft Master Plan for the North Urban Regional Trail. The meeting begins at 7:30 p.m. and will be in the City Council Chambers at City Hall, located at 1101 Victoria Curve. We appreciate your cooperation in presenting the details of the draft Master Plan and look forward to seeing you and your staff on July 19, 1994. If you have any questions, or desire to_ discuss your presentation plans, please contact me at 452-1850. Sincerely, Kevin Batchelder Administrative Assistant CC: Tom Lawell, City Administrator Patrice Bataglia, Dakota County Commissioner Bob Doffing, PARAC Representative Barb Schmidt, Parks Director Lynn Moratzka, Dakota County John Forrest, Dakota County Chantell Kadin, Dakota County • 1101 Victoria Curve .Mendota Heights, MN - 55118 452.1850 CITY OF WEST ST. PAUL 1616 HUMBOLDT AVE.,WEST ST.PAUL,MN 55118-3972 ADMINISTRATION 552-4100 POLICE AND FIRE 552-4200 EMERGENCY 911 TDD#552-4222 June 30, 1994 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 Regional Trail. Our«linen comments essentially echo our verbal ones: We 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 right-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 regional funding for the proposed work. Yours very truly, L�l i cam. William P. Craig City Manager WPC:dkm • AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY/AFFIRMATIVE ACTION EMPLOYER APR 2 5 1994 City of- MAAAA Mendota Heights April 21, 1994 Ms. Chantell Kadin, Planning Associate Dakota County Western Service Center Environmental Management Department 14955 Galaxie Avenue Apple Valley, MN 55124-8579 Dear Ms. Kadin: As requested in your March 14, 1994 letter, the City of Mendota Heights has reviewed the trail route alternatives for the North Urban Trail, 4s presented in the Location Alternatives document on March 9. 1994 by your consultant at the Wentworth Library. Both our Parks and Recreation Commission and our City Council have reviewed these alternatives. While our official bodies agree with staff that the Highway 110 Frontage Road route appears to be the most favorable route, their agreement to this alternative is from the perspective that this is the least negative route of the three alternatives that have been explored. Both the City Council and the Parks and Recreation Commission strongly expressed the concern that any disruption of front yards for County regional trails would be unacceptable and would be something that they could not support. They suggested, that should this trail be located along front yards, that significant plantings and landscaping would be necessary to minimize the impacts. Our City Council suggested that locating the trail between the frontage road and Trunk Highway 110 should be re-explored as a possible trail location in order to avoid going through the front yards of residents along the frontage road. The City Council is also concerned about the level of bicycle traffic that would be routed through Valley Park as the City has already received numerous complaints of bicyclists traveling too fast in this area and frightening pedestrians. As previously conveyed, our City Council is unable to offer conceptual support for the North Urban Trail until such time as more details are known about the specific locations and connections of the trail and what impacts these choices may have. 1101 Victoria Curve -Mendota Heights, MN - 55118 452.1850 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, Kevin Batchelder Administrative Assistant cc: Bill Craig, City of West St. Paul Randee Nelson, City of South St. Paul . - L.Oh+^7 :.t. -.•`i...Y.v.L�r:': gib } Aii= �s -..e,..t:•.� '�:K•�•j�••�I•M�✓•:: :.• •. - _� ' _ w• •r. w -y } I : -:3.:T'i•I "I •"iJ.w�i{t::na`i..t•'•• , -1 •tF' ...i r.y. «+...1r+Y.•r Ft •-.•;.,.•. \ �a -.••� i••a.J..t•:. r• •- .. - •- ''. +' ..-_..u�. .�y�,o-•.. ,:�;t t-s .w�� :;l y,tk..y7�y3_,�•i.�l.:f. �.�.r..�. - r� '• {�i ^�`'. F.+,• :k'h•• •'?n'r !l'• i�>�•�`*��'�.t_`•'i4r r• f1Ytf}`.�.,� -•'.,:r , NS -.•LV_:;j: ..:w t•:-"Ltr'�'..;o-•3i{,j.�'.11S:fa.� :t.t:•��-"..'eI'3f� e�.�•�=Y1f�N`j��y4M �►•��,�^�.�wp, •St•':• - ♦ •`r: :ry .. .. i �_- r •, is J:a t• � j•:�.,•�.•�� '.:�1 •r , ♦a- : il1;Jr -ram ae,.•� i•• ,t. . , '. . .� ("Pw; L ::• '.'� y 9../.� •i'.' �f• :� +•J:t. i•• S,i:t. .. . .•••:t�•N•x Y••: ••-'1„J.::t'. .•. . X. i••t�• 'i t~+'•}a''F•t•n i`�.!,`,:...� • . • • •i, `•� 1'` !J !�j:J, , • ,•�.�• k.. •.. •4 � •' • G1C• • iijJ 3 :� e to F�s•, .may{ . i L.T «f.}y, n•. :i :rah a� ,V..,f+'r, • #s '�{•,.yi�• to{t,= •'...J y -!•• L^�T,, •fin•- `'-e L n .'_Y♦ •... .y,. .. 1 3• ��.?7�,� k"�.•e�••�Ms�y:.rf•; .. ••n•!± n "�:t�i.�.�'."�••�`�J� ,di`.itL:."... :a?�• !• �Ti►3 �•4 y�l��.:+, �. ..F �!:`j��Cw� r ..Srj, r M• :'y.T-�...•� ��vr•:, n.+' •; City of .,,, A Mendota Heights January 24, 1994 Ms. Chantell Kadin Dakota County Western Service Center Environmental Management Department 14955 Galaxie Avenue Apple Valley, MN 55124-8579 Dear Ms. Kadin: I am writing this letter to inform you that the City Council of Mendota Heights is not able to offer conceptual support of the North Urban Trail, until such time as more details are known about locations, routes, connections and standards. Our City Council recognizes the potential of impacting the front yards of residential properties in Mendota Heights with new trails, or upgraded trails, and desires more specifics before they will endorse this concept. The City Council, at their January 18th meeting, specifically requested that I inquire if Ken Horns, of Barton-Aschman, is aware • of the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area (MNRRA) plan prepared by the National Park Service and their plans for regional trails in this area. MNRRA trail.plans. should be coordinated with the County's regional system. The City of Mendota Heights has appreciated the opportunity to work with Dakota County in exploring additional recreational trail facilities to serve the residents of our area. We look forward to continuing our cooperative efforts in this regard. We hope to provide further input as Dakota County begins to determine more specific designs for the various routes and connection points. Sincerely, Kevin Batchelder Administrative Assistant cc: Bill Craig, City of West St. Paul Randee Nelson, City of South St. Paul 1101 Victoria Curve -Mendota Heights, MN - 55118 452.1850 CITY OF f' SOUTH ST. PAUL `�" "''-' 125 THIRD AVENUE NORTH SOUTH ST. PAUL. MN 55075-2097 s` Da rmber 2l, 199.? an Mr.Jack Ditmore _ 'YS:t' D_1�ADU. 1 Deputy Director Phy,sJ l Development Division 149SS Galaxie A venue Apple Valley, MN SS12¢9579 DearMr. Ditmore: On behalfofthe City ofSouth St.Paul,please accept thisletteras oursupport of the Dakota County Board's commitment to develop a east-west trail connection to adjoin the South St. PaulsegmentoftheNorthem Dakota CountyRegionalTrail WetrulyapDrecJatetheDakota County Board of Commissioners'decision in designating this project as a priority for the citizens ofthe northeast section ofDakota County. We continue to appreciate the a0brtsoftheDakota CountyBoardanditsstaffin assisting o ur 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 Administrator Don Maher, Dakota County Commissioner CITY OF WEST ST. PAUL 1616 HUMBOLDT AVE.,WEST ST.PAUL,MN 55116-3972 ADMINISTRATION 552-4100 POLICE AND FIRE 552-4200 EMERGENCY 911 TDDs 5524222 December 8, 1993 Mr. John Forrest Division of Physical Development Dakota County 14955 Galaxie Avenue Apple Valley, MN 55124 Dear Mr. Forrest, In response to Jack Ditmore's letter of December 3rd, I am sending this letter to express once again this city's interest in the proposed trail you now-term the North Urban Trail. We believe the trail that Dakota County constructed this year (the first new County trail in our city) was a fine improvement, and that additional trail links -are a good idea. Please note our support of the North Urban Trail, in particular the segment that we previously sent a letter of support for, in Thompson Lake Park, and our continued willingness to work with you regarding additional segments. Yours very truly, 0 William P. Craig ✓ City Manager WPC:dkm AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITYIAFFIRMATIVE ACTION EMPLOYER City of A A A L AMA Mendota Heights October 23, 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 RMW 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.) • In February of 1995, the City of Mendota Heights had adapted Resolution No. 95-10 in general support of the North Urban Regional Tmil, 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 fiidu+e 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 concerns, please contact me at 452-1850. Sincerely, Kevin Batchelder Administrative Assistant cc: Patrice Bataglia, County Commissioner Tom Lawell, City Administrator 1101 Victoria Curve -Mendota Heights, MN • 55118 452.1850 CITY OF NIENDOTA HEIGHTS • DAKOTA COUNTY, MINNESOTA RESOLUTION NO. 95- 56 A RESOLUTION OF INTENT REGARDING THE MASTER PLAN FOR THE NORTH URBAN REGIONAL TRAIL 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 WE,ERRFEAS, the City of Mendota Heights adopted Resolution No. 95-10 offering general support of the North Urban Regional Trail provided that there are no physical changes or improvements to Valley Park In&and provided that the location of the trail along Highway 110 Frontage Road be on the south side of the Frontage Road; and WHIHtEAS, a Master Plan has been approved by Dakota County for the implementation of the North Urban Regional Trail that proposes significant physical changes and improvements to the Valley Park Trail. NOW THEREFORE BE IT HEREBY RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of i Mendota Heights that Valley Park is intended to serve as a natural, wooded, open space park and that any significant physical changes and improvements to Valley Park Trail would change the character of the park in a manner not desired by the City of Mendota Heights. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Mendota Heights that any physical changes or improvements to Valley Park Trail shall be minimal and consistent with the current use and character of Valley Park. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that any proposed changes or upgrades to Valley Park Trail as proposed in the North Urban Regional Trail Master Plan will require prior approval of the City of Mendota Height's Parks and Recreation Commission and the City Council. Adopted by the City Council of the City of Mendota Heights this 17th day of October, 1995. ATTEST: CTTY COUNCIL CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS Kathleen M. Swanson/s/ By. Charles E. Mertensotto/s/ Kathleen M. Swanson, City Clerk Charles& Mertensotto, Mayor • CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS DAKOTA COUNTY,MINNF,SOTA RESOLUTION No. 95- 10 A RESOLUTION OF GENERAL SUPPORT FOR THE NORTH URBAN REGIONAL TRAIL 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 yPHERTAS, a Master Plan has been prepared by Dakota County for the implementation of the 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 IT HEREBY RESOLVED 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: CITY COUNCIL CITY OF ME5WTA HEIGHTS By Ao--%4 If thleen M. Swanson, City Clerk Charles E. Mertensotto, Mayor 1 United States Department of the Interior NATIONAL PARR SERVICE Mississippi National River and Recreation Area MAR p �. 175 Fifth Street Fast,Suite 418,Baal 41 i t AR p/ 1996 + �q 3 �� St.Paul,Minnesota 55101-2901 IN RZKY 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, J JoAnn Kyral G Superintendent r Science Museum of Minnesota Mississippi National River and Recreation Area National Park Service Proposal of Partnership 15 March, 1996 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 of 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 i 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 2 II Proposal Introduction The Science Museum and MNRRA,part of the National Park Service,propose to collaborate: First,to develop a 2,000 square foot Mississippi River National Center located within the new Science Museum building to be built on a river bluff in downtown Saint Paul. Open to the public without charge,the Center will serve people interested in finding out about: • the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area; • regional and national organizations and programs that interpret the Mississippi River and its watershed; • ongoing and recently completed scientific and environmental research on the watershed; and • national parks and selected local,regional,and national public recreation areas. Second,to develop a 5,000 square foot Mississippi River Exhibition Gallery located within the fee area of the planned new Science Museum building to interpret the Mississippi River Watershed with an emphasis on the area defined by the confluence of the Minnesota,the Mississippi,and the St Croix rivers. Third,to enter into partnership with the City of Saint Paul to plan,to raise funds for,and to develop expanded outdoor exhibits,classrooms, and programs on both sides of the Mississippi River,focusing on River Park and the Kellogg Boulevard River Overlook near the new Science Museum building on the east side and on Harriet Island/Lilydale • Regional Park on the West Side. Fourth,to develop a 6,700 square foot Mississippi River Education Center located on Harriet Island within Harriet Island/Lilydale Regional Park that will support MNRRA,the Science Museum,Saint Paul Parks and Recreation,and other organizations in their delivery of river-related and environmental programming to groups of school children, families,and adults. A. MISSISSIPPI RIVER NATIONAL CENTER Located on the lobby of the new Science Museum of Minnesota,the Mississippi River National Center,operated by the National Park Service and identified by its arrowhead logo,will provide a unique introduction and starting point for visitors interested in learning about and exploring the Mississippi River. The Center will feature a wide range of experiences and materials that cover the entire river and its watershed,especially highlighting the section of the river flowing through the Twin Cities metropolitan area that was designated in 1988 as the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area (MNRRA). Most information and materials will be provided free of charge;books, maps,software,and other park-and river-related materials will be offered for sale. Along with information about MNRRA,visitors will be able to collect materials and to learn about all of the units of the National Park System(there are now 369). This unique opportunity will be offered nowhere else in the world! Uniformed National Park Rangers will assist visitors as they use the Center. The latest technology will provide access to an incredible wealth of information about these resources. 4 � Science Museum of Minnesota Mississippi National River&Recreation Area Proposal of Partnership page 3 iVisitors 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. • • • i _ s Science Museum of Minnesota Mississippi National River&Recreation Area Proposal of Partnership page 4 B. Nfis ISSIPPI RIVER E7CTilBmm GALLERY • It is easy to rely on superlatives to describe the Mississippi River. It is such a long,large, wide,deep river! But impressive statistics can just as readily obscure as illuminate the river that is the heart of the North American continent. The Mississippi River is an amazing mix of complexities and subtleties. The Mississippi River is both an ancient and a young river. It has changed enormously over long lengths of geologic time,but change has never been so dramatic nor so abrupt as over the past 150 years. It has been a locus for human settlements and a conduit for human commerce for at least 12,000 years and now is part of a vast commercial network of global proportions. Reflecting its vast and varied watershed,it is home to a wealth of biological diversity and fecundity which presently suffers from the actions of the highly industrialized society that has greatly altered both the river and its basin. The Mississippi River Exhibition Gallery is an'exhibition designed to provide visitors with an intimate appreciation of this waterway. The subject matter is the whole river,but it will focus most on the Upper Mississippi River(above St Louis)and especially on the stretch of river directly outside the windows of the Gallery and within the Win Cities metropolitan area. The exhibition will take advantage of its location between two major tributaries of the Upper Mississippi(the Minnesota and St Croix Rivers)to explore the concept of watersheds. Visitors will not only learn about the Mississippi River,but also use the river to explore the scientific techniques we use to study rivers everywhere. A river seems a magic thing.A magic, moving, living part of the very earth itself—for it is from the soi4 both from its depth and from its surface, that a river has its beginning. lama Gilpin.The Rio Grande 1949. • Project Mission The Mississippi River Exhibition Gallery will connect visitors to the Mississippi River through the telling of its stories and through the use of the river to explore the science of rivers and watersheds. Through the integration of these two approaches,visitors will come to appreciate how people shape the river and how the river influences people's lives. Project Themes The Gallery will address two overarching questions—"What is the Mississippi River?" and"What is the future of the Mississippi River?" The first question will explore the many intricate and intermingled physical and human attributes that collectively constitute the Mississippi River. The second question will build on the insights derived from the first in an effort to define some of the trends,both positive and negative,that are likely to shape the character of the river for years to come. What is the Mississippi River? • The Mississippi River and its watershed is a complex,changing,physical and biological system. • The Mississippi River has been and continues to be a catalyst for human economic, social,and cultural activity. What is the Future of the Mississippi River? • Humans have become the dominate agent of change for the Mississippi River and its watershed. 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 6 of drinking water. Millions of Americans rely on the river for bathing,washing,cooking, drinking,and many other household needs. Keeping the river clean is not just a nice thing for the environment but is essential for the health of all of us who count on this water supply. How is Mississippi River water treated to make it potable? What are the contamination threats to drinking water? What can be done to ameliorate them? How Do Rivers Behave? It is easy to think of rivers merely as channels filled with water flowing downhill because of the pull of gravity;conduits that collect water and sediment shed from surrounding lands and then carry them away. In reality,rivers are remarkably complex because they have their own discrete set of physical conditions that vary over both time and space. The quantity of water being carried by a river,its velocity and sediment load,the composition of the river bed and banks,and many other factors influence the behavior of rivers. What are the mechanics of how rivers and their watersheds work? What are the causes of great river floods,what changes do they make in river forms and dynamics,and how does life along the Mississippi change with them? A Biological Bounty Historical accounts tell of an incredible abundance of fish, mussels,waterfowl,and other animal life. What accounted for this astonishing productivity and diversity of life in the Mississippi River? The river was and continues to be a major route for the passage of animals north and south through the North American continent. Why and how does the river act as such a powerful ecological focal point? What are some of the ways in which the river and its watershed are linked to the ecological processes taking place hundreds and even thousands of miles away? How Do We Know What We Know? How do we develop scientific understandings of the complex and ever-changing biological and physical interactions that are a river? What are the tools and methodologies applied by scientists to the study of rivers? Using case studies from the Mississippi River and other rivers in Minnesota,what are some of the major scientific investigations currently ongoing and what are some of the big unanswered questions about how rivers behave that are still waiting to be investigated? 2. What is the Future of the Mississippi River? Can I Eat the Fish? Fishing is a very popular recreational activity along the entire length of the Mississippi River. In many locations,unfortunately,fish consumption advisories have been posted,warning people about the types and sizes of fish likely to contain elevated levels of contaminants,such as PCBs and mercury. Many of these contaminants are found in the water of the river itself in very small quantities. How can minute amounts of toxic substances become concentrated in the bodies of fish and other aquatic animals? What does this"bioaccumulation"reveal to us about how human contaminants migrate through ecosystems? What can be done to address this problem? The Long Reach of the River In the early 1970s,scientists discovered an area in the Gulf of Mexico with very low concentrations of dissolved oxygen in the water. The Dead Zone(virtually devoid of fish,shrimp,and other aquatic life),has in recent summers covered over 6,000 square miles,an area 1.5 times the size of the nine-county Twin Cities metropolitan area. Scientific research indicates that the Dead Zone is the result of an ecological chain reaction set in motion by excessive nutrients spilling into the Gulf from the Mississippi River,the majority of which enter the river in the Upper Midwest. How are the health of the Mississippi River and the Gulf of Mexico dependent on one another? What is the role of the Upper Midwest in helping to address an environmental problem over 1,000 miles away? Is the River Dying? Year by year,scientists are noting a steady decline in the biological diversity and productivity of the river, especially along portions of the Upper Mississippi 41 River. Are these natural fluctuations or is the river ecosystem in danger of collapse Science Museum of Minnesota Mississippi National River&Recreation Area • Proposal of Partnership page 7 because of human alterations of the river and its watershed? How 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 B 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? C. OuTwoR Exnili TS AND PROGRAMS 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 8 flood plain,on America's middle coast,on a northern bank of a river that unites Minnesota to the Gulf of Mexico, on a vast watershed that drains more than half of the land mass of the United States. An armillary sphere(a kind of celestial sun dial)could help them understand that they stand at 45°North,exactly midway between the equator and the-north pole, almost twice as far north as the spot where the sun pauses at the summer solstice and begins its journey south again. Interpretive gardens of native wetland,flood plain,prairie,and savannah species could help them see that they are part of an extended and varied web of life nourished by the river. Head House is an historic structure on the river bank that once weighed grain stored in a great array of elevators and discharged it into waiting barges.Head House could be renovated as a site for visitor experiments on the physics and biology of the river and presentations on the site's industrial history. The tower could become a high vantage point for Saint Paul visitors to observe the sweep of the river's course,the high bluffs that marked the edges of the prehistoric River Warren,and the commercial traffic that still moves along the river. Harriet Island/lAydale Regional Park and Crosby Farm Regional Park The regional parks on both sides of the Mississippi River in Saint Paul offer an exceedingly rich environment for the exploration of river dynamics,river ecology,and the ecology of the flood plain. They are full of natural outdoor"classrooms"in which groups may meet for investigation, study,and discussion. They are linked with a network of walking,hiking,and bicycle trails to important physical reminders of Saint Paul's past and present—from the Lilydale brick yard to the NSP High Bridge electricity plant to Pigs Eye sewage plant. They provide opportunities to learn through recreation and to enjoy a near wilderness within an urban setting. Saint Paul Parks, MNRRA, and the Science Museum will collaborate in developing exhibits and support facilities that help interpret this wealth. A series of trailhead kiosks can point out environmental features to be found on local walks. Markers can help interpret both the industrial archaeology along the river and the artifacts of current commerce. Supporting infrastructure can be developed to make the outdoor classrooms easier to use and more accessible to all visitors. And care can be taken to preserve the wildness of the natural environment while helping the curious experience its nature. • 0 • A MISSISSIPPI RIVER EDUCATION CENTER Located within Harriet Island/Lilydale Regional Park,the Education Center will offer a robust and varied collection of educational programs about the Mississippi River. Programs will be designed to combine indoor,structured learning with experiences on the river or in the many outdoor classrooms to be found in and around the park. The Education Center will include a water lab,wet room for water-oriented programming, computer stations,multipurpose program rooms,multipurpose auditorium,a multipurpose room for river-related community meetings and drop-in visitors,rest rooms, and storage and staff space. The Education Center will have access to docking space on the river. The primary audiences of the Education Center will be schools and other organized groups. Programs will also be offered for youth and for the general public. Most • programs will be offered by reservation only. The Education Center will be open to the general public on a drop-in basis during special events and during park high-use periods. 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: MNR LA,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-learning 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 fast 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 10 Urban Park Interpretation Program Urban students,particularly culturally diverse populations,have not traditionally had the opportunity to participate in environmental education,classes,and field trips. In this program,urban high school students would be trained to provide park-based environmental instruction for elementary school students in this park and in other parks in Saint Paul and Minneapolis. Besides receiving direct training on environmental issues,the high school students would be exposed to a variety of natural resource,horticulture,zoological,and other related professions often under represented within culturally diverse populations.Working with these professionals, students will participate actively in resource management and restoration programs within Harriet IslandUydale Regional Park and the other parks. Program host: Saint Paul Parks. Summer Science Day Camps One-week summer camps would be held at the Education Center as scheduling permits. Camps would have a strong environmental focus with river ecology and stewardship a principal theme. Each camp would accommodate a maximum of 45 participants who would pay a registration fee. Program hosts: SMM,MNRRA,Saint Paul Parks,&other partners. Overnight Mississippi Camp-ins A number of weekend evenings in the summer,fall and spring would be reserved for group or family camp-ins based at the Education Center. This fee-based program would focus on hands-on activities that introduce participants to a broad range of river topics,including riparian and riverme environmental and ecological issues,river stories and music, as well as geology of the river valley. Program hosts: SMM&MNRRA. School Group Tours With over 170,000 school children visiting SMM annually and over 200,000 projected once the new SMM is opened, it is highly probable that a portion of those school groups would be interested in spending up to several hours at the MNRRA education facility for a Mississippi River program. Fees could be charged. Program hosts: SMM,MNRRA, &Saint Paul Parks. Teacher Workshop Series An annual series of quarterly one-day workshops for elementary teachers would be offered that cover a wide range of river topics. These would be seasonal workshops that focus on specific themes that have broad application in the K-6 curriculum. This quartet of workshops would serve as a core set offered each year for a limited number of teachers(25-30 per workshop). Along with the workshop, SMM and MNRRA would develop some classroom materials and activities that teachers would incorporate in their ongoing curriculum. These workshops would be developed to stimulate a cadre of trained teachers to use the river as a theme throughout their classroom activities. The workshop series would be a fee-based program. Program hosts: SMM,MNRRA,Saint Paul Parks,&other partners. Week-long Science Residencies The Investigators'Club Program at the Science Museum offers academic-day enrichment programs to gifted and talented youth from area schools. Investigators'Club classes are 10 hours long with focused inquiry activities around a specific topic. Classes would be taught by museum teaching staff team teaching with National Park Service educators. A classroom facility on the river would offer a superb opportunity to explore the Mississippi River through laboratory and field exercises—an opportunity not offered in our metro area. A class would address the questions about river health,ecology,the source and impact of pollution,the river and the growth of the city,fish and their ability to thrive in the river. It would provide hands-on training in the use of equipment,techniques,and principles that are fundamental to both freshwater and marine ecology. The Investigators Club would be a fee-based program. Program hosts: SMM&MNRRA. 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/ecologichl 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 Hamline 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. Science Museum of Minnesota Mississippi National River&Recreation Area Proposal of Partnership page 12 D. SCIENCE MUSEUM LOBBY SPACE PLAN • Main Entrance R6roN� I X % % - to,►tS i 1MA% • Main Lobby ` � Mi�ippi River� National Center I Vs• I Yo?amen ` I S IMA7c h�`��• • \ • MissL�ipPi River • ErldMm+GaUery • • • • 1 • • Science Museum of Minnesota Mississippi National River&Recreation Area Proposal of Partnership page 13 III 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 drop-in 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 14 V" Estimated Estimated Estimated Estimated Construc- Operating Education Yearly tion Cost Cost/year` Staffing Attendance Cost/year Interpretive $9,947,000 $180,000 $4079666 35o000- Center/Headquarters on Harriet 502000 Island/Lilydale Regional Park as described in the Comprehensive Management Plan Scenario 1: 3500 gsf Mississippi $5,924,000 $218t400 $542,096 11016,000— River Education Center and 11024t000 Headquarters on Harriet Islandi1ilyciple Regional Park, Mississippi River National Center and Mississippi River Exhibition Gallery in SMM Scenario 2: 3500 gsf Mississippi $3,581,000 $267s100 $542o096 190169000— River Education Center on 19024,000 Harriet Island/Uydale Regional Park,Headquarters remains in leased space;Mississippi River National Center and Mississippi River Exhibition Gallery in SMM Scenario 3: 6700 gsf Mississippi $5,055,000 $2819000 $542,096 11028,000— River Education Center with 1,04%000 offices for education staff on Harriet Island/Uydale Regional Park, Headquarters remain in leased space;Mississippi River National Center and Mississippi River Exhibition Gallery in SMM Note Lane,utilities and maintenance . Science Museum of Minnesota Mississippi National River&Recreation Area Proposal of Partnership page 15 Table 2: Cost of M RRA 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 SW 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 iDesign 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 $119,000 • Science Museum of Minnesota Mississippi National River&Recreation Area ' Proposal of Partnership page 16 Table 3: Cost for Scenario#1 • Mississippi River Education Center and Headquarters on Harriet bland/lAydale Regional Park Component Size Construction Operating Notes Cost Cost/year Mississippi River 3,500 gsf $121009000 $33,100 Two classrooms. Education Multipurpose audit- Center orium space for 75. Wired for connection to the Internet Headquarters 7,000 sf $124212000 $66,300 Same as in CMP. Headquarters N.A. $ 20%000 Not Total for furnishings Furnishings Applicable less than 00; smaller building. Education Center N.A. $ 100,000 Not Rough estimate. Furnishings Applicable Landscape N.A. $ 485,000 Not Less than CMP due to . development/ Applicable somewhat smaller site prep. building. Utility connect N.A. $ 14,000 Not Same as in CMP. Applicable Parking 66 $ 250,000 Not For headquarters and car/bus Applicable education center. Subtotal $3,5709000 $49,400 Site Survey/ N.A. $ 794,000 Not 25% of net Design Cost Applicable construction cost(does not include furnishings) Totals 1Q500 sf $4,364,000 $99,400 Total in SMM 4,500 sf $1,560,000 $11%000 (from Table 2) Grand Totals 15,000 sf $5,924,000 $218,400 Scenario#1 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/lAydale Regional Park,Headquarters remains in leased space Component Size Construction Operating Notes Cost Costs/year Mississippi River 3,500 gross $191009000 $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 $ 1007000 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 $ 1269000 Not For education center Applicable only. Subtotal N.A. $17617,000 $148,100 Survey/Design $ 4042000 Not Applicable Totals 10,500 sf $2,0219000 $148,100 Total in SMM 4,500 sf $195601,000 $11%000 (from Table 2) Grand Totals 15,000 sf $3,5811000 $267,100 Scenario#2 Science Museum of Minnesota Mississippi National River&Recreation Area Proposal of Partnership page 18 Table 5: Cost for Scenario#3 Mississippi River Education Center at Harriet Island/lAydale Regional Park; Center includes offices for education staff, MNRRA Headquarters remains in leased space Component Size Construction Operating Notes Cost Costs/year Mississippi River 6,700 gross $2,1072000 $63,500 Program space Education square feet increased to provide Center space for partners. Flexibility &techno- logy emphasized. Headquarters 6,000 sf 0 $9%500 6,000 sq. feet leased at current rate. Headquarters Not $ 65,000 Not Very rough estimate Furnishings Applicable Applicable to outfit remaining offices in leased space. Education Center Not $ 110,000 Not Rough estimate. Furnishings Applicable Applicable Landscape Not $ 350,000 Not Available Decreases as size of development/ Applicable building decreases. site prep. Utility connect. Not $ 14,000 Not Same as in CUT. Applicable Applicable Parking 50 car/bus $ 150,000 Not For education center Applicable visitors and staff. Subtotal N.A. $2,796,000 $162,000 Survey/Design $ 45992000 Not Applicable Totals 12,700 sf $3,495,000 $162,000 Total in SMM 4,500 sf $1956%000 $119,000 (from Table 2) Grand Totals 17,200 sf $5,055,000 $2819000 Scenario#2 i Science Museum of Minnesota Mississippi National River&Recreation Area Proposal of Partnership page 19 Attendance Estimates To assist in understanding how various partnership scenarios would affect attendance, projections for various NPS facilities within Harriet Island/l lydale 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. ;E'-�L`i,f=j,.�yj,z ll•��F ``_yLv, .- - ��'.#,� ✓ .. i�"r •J-• ',.r 7, ,a' ,2 w:'P' ��T{.;:g ;L;,; ', -. ,pp;��„5i ;•, h,r. Interpretive Mississippi Mississippi Mississippi Total Center& River River River Attendance Head- National Exhibition Education quarters Center Gallery Center Interpretive Center/Head- 3%000- X X X 309000- quarters on Harriet Island as 50,000 5%000 described in the Compre- hensive Management Plan • Scenario 1:Mississippi River X 300,000— 19000,000 16,000— 10016,000— Education Center and Head- 400,000 24,000 19024,000 quarters on Harriet Island; Mississippi River National Center and Mississippi River Exhibition Gallery in SMM Scenario 2:Mississippi River X 3002000— 19000,000 16,000— 11016,000— Education Center on Harriet 400,000 249000 11024,000 Island; Headquarters remains in leased space;Mississippi River National Center and Mississippi River Exhibition Gallery in SMM Scenario 3:Mississippi River X 300,000— 1,000,000 28,000— 19028,000— Education Center with offices 4002000 40,000 1,0409000 for education staff on Harriet Island; Headquarters remain in leased space;Mississippi River National Center and Mississippi River Exhibition • Gallery in SMM Science Museum of Minnesota Mississippi National River&Recreation Area Proposal of Partnership page 20 IV Appendix A Walk through the Mississippi River Exhibition Gallery The face of the water, in time, became a wonderful book--a book that was a dead language to the uneducated passenger, but which told its mind to me without reserve, delivering its most cherished secrets as clearly as if it uttered them with a voice. And it was not a book to be read once and thrown aside,for it had a new story to tell every day. Mark Twain. Life on the Mississippi. 1883. The brief description below is intended to provide a sense of the experiences that you,the visitor,might enjoy while wandering through the future Mississippi River Exhibition Gallery. This hypothetical walk-through is not meant to describe the specific components'that will appear in the exhibit because these will change as planning for the hall advances. It is rather to provide an impression of the rich mix of learning opportunities that the new gallery will provide its estimated 1,000,000 annual visitors. The Mississippi River Gallery After visiting the Mississippi River National Center, you decide to learn more about the river by exploring the nearby Mississippi River Exhibition Gallery. As you walk toward the Gallery,you notice that this 5,000 square-foot hall holds the unique position of being the only exhibition space on the main floor of the new museum. This gallery dedicated to the Mississippi River is the first exhibit experience museum visitors have. At the entrance to the Gallery,you notice that its prime location is further enhanced by walls of windows on three sides that offer outstanding panoramic views of the Mississippi River as it winds past downtown Saint Paul. You take a moment to peruse a quick introduction that helps you grasp the overall organizing concepts of the hall before entering. Upon entering the Gallery, you are drawn to a large mask reminiscent of a Mardi Gras float. Stepping closer,you realize that it is a mask created to embody the"strong brown river god"from a T.S.Eliot poem. Near the poem is a large scroll. It is a recreated portion of Henry Lewis'continuous 1840 panoramic painting of the river from Fort Snelling to New Orleans. You turn a handle that allows you to scroll through the painting and then notice a video monitor to the side of the panorama. The video is a documentation of a revisiting of some of the sites that Lewis painted with a team of artists and scientists. Around this area are exhibit pieces the team created showing how selected sites along the river have changed in the 150 years since Lewis did his painting. You next enter the pilot house of a tug. Peering through the pilot house window,you take your best shot at piloting your full tow of barges utilizing virtual reality techniques. Watch out for that bridge! Next to the pilot house is a large capstan and rope used to tie up barges. Large piles of grain,fertilizer, and other products help tell the story of the huge role commerce plays on Mississippi River. Near the pilot house is the large lock and dam model where you and others get to do more . role playing. Someone needs to pilot the barge,someone must steer the houseboat, and 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 Paul in 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 cap 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, old 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 Science Museum of Minnesota Mississippi National River&Recreation Area Proposal of Partnership page 22 the Mississippi River Valley during their annual northward migration. Around this glen are other stories about animals that rely on the river. An aquarium holds an Atlantic eel and tell the story of how eels migrate all the way up the Mississippi River from their starting point in the distant Sargasso Sea. Another aquarium holds the endangered skipjack herring and reveals why it no longer is found in Minnesota. Tanks of freshwater mussels tell the story of how these unusual creatures are integral to the ecological well- being of the Mississippi River. You walk over to a nearby wall where a net is filled with enormous fish such as paddle fish,sturgeon, and catfish. You can have your picture taken next to a replica of one of the giants that was pulled from the river. You hear stories from fishers,see historic photos,and read about the life histories of these remarkable animals.You are dismayed to discover that certain species and sizes of fish are not recommended for human consumption along many stretches of the river. An exhibit component reveals to you how extremely small concentrations of toxic substances,such as PCBs and mercury,can accumulate they move through the food chain. A large wall of water in the shape of a question mark catches your attention. Upon walking over,you discover that this part of the gallery examines the future of the river and poses the question,Is the River Dying? Video clips allow you to see and hear people with varying experiences talking about their points of view on the health of the river. The story of the ecological collapse of the Illinois River is told and parallels are drawn between the Illinois and the Mississippi. Another component allows you manipulate a simulation model being developed by scientists to help them better understand the complex behavior of the Upper Mississippi River. You are drawn to a video monitor showing underwater views of the Dead Zone, an area in the Gulf of Mexico virtually devoid of fish,shrimp,and other sea animals because of pollution from the Mississippi River. You are surprised and dismayed to discover that pollutants from the Upper Midwest bear a significant responsibility for this situation. It is amazing that what happens to the river in Minnesota can matter 1,000 miles away in the Gulf of Mexico. You notice that in a number of places you are encouraged to record your opinions or vote electronically on various issues. It is interesting to compare your thoughts with the range of views entered by other visitors to the Gallery. There is still much to see in the Gallery,but the day is beautiful so it is difficult not to want to be outside. You decide to go through the door from the Gallery out onto the 2,000 square-foot plaza immediately adjacent to the hall. The view inside was great but the panorama outside is fantastic. The river in a great ribbon sweeps by in front of you. Telescopes,audio feed from riverboat radios, and a TV monitor with river traffic information allow you to identify vessels that ply the river,what companies they work for,and what commodities they are carrying. Binoculars,bird books,and other nature guides allow you to observe the birds flying overhead and feeding at nearby stations. You pull a chair up the railing. You realize that you can learn as much outdoors as in. • CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS MEMO 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 DESCRIPTION: OTHER PARKING COMPLAINTS