HomeMy WebLinkAbout2018-03-01 TPC Memorandum3601 Thurston Avenue N, Suite 100
Anoka. MN 55303
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MEMORANDUM
TO: Eric Johnson
FROM: Scott Richards
DATE: March 1, 2018
RE: Oak Park Heights — Comprehensive Plan 2018
TPC FILE: 226.10
At the March 8, 2018 meeting, the Planning Commission will review the following
related to the Comprehensive Plan 2018:
Introduction, Social Inventory, Issues identification, Mission Statement and
Goals, Land Use, Transportation, Administration, and Community Facilities
Sections
The revised Introduction, Social Inventory, Issues Identification, Mission Statement and
Goals, Land Use, Transportation, Administration, and Community Facilities sections of
the Comprehensive Plan are found as attached. These sections had been updated with
the comments from the Planning Commission and City Council members to date. If the
Planning Commission members have any additional comments or edits, please let staff
know. The final formatting of the Comprehensive Plan is in process.
Parks and Trails
The Parks Commission reviewed the draft Introduction, Issues, Physical Profile, Goals
and Policies, and Parks and Trails Plan sections at their January 29, 2018 and February
21, 2018 meetings. They provided input and updates to the draft park and trail
elements of the Comprehensive Plan and recommended the draft. The Planning
Commission should review this section and provide comments.
Implementation
Staff is currently working on the draft of this section and will make it available for the
Planning Commission at their March meeting.
Open House
The Planning Commission scheduled an open house for the Comprehensive Plan for
5:00 on April 12, 2018. The Open House will be advertised through the City Newsletter
that will be distributed to every household in the community in March.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The development of the Oak Park Heights Comprehensive Plan would not have been
possible without the hard work and dedication of the Comprehensive Plan Update
Committee. Their courtesy, cooperation, and contribution is greatly valued and
appreciated.
City Council:
Planning Commission:
Parks Commission:
Mary McComber, Mayor
Mike Liljegren
Chuck Dougherty
Mike Runk
Mark Swenson
Jim Kremer, Chair
David White
Jennifer Bye
Jennifer Giovinazzo
Jennifer VanDyke
Robin Anthony
Timothy Freeman
Aaron Bye, Chair
Anthony Weyer
David Johnson
Jimmy Norton
Judith Chirhart
Staff/Consultants: Eric Johnson, City Administrator
Scott Richards, City Planner, TPC, Inc.
Lee Mann, City Engineer, Stantec
Comprehensive Plan 2018
City of Oak Park Heights
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Mission Statement, Values and Community Goals .............................
LandUse ..................................................................................
PhysicalProfile ................... ..................................................
Goals and Policies .--...—......-........--.......--...---...—
[and Use Plan —.........—..—....—......--...-.....-..........,
Transportation ...—......—...—...—....---...--......—...—...—...—.
Physical Profile ......—...—...—...-.—.........—.-...—.......--.—....
Goals and Policies ..................................................................
Transportation Plan —..........--...---....—........—...---..—
Com0MUnNw Facilities .....—..—......—...-.—....-....—.....—...---.
PhysicalProfile ....................... ..............................................
Goals and Policies '.................................................................
Administration ......---...—...—.-...—.................—...—...—....
Goalsand Policies ............................................................
Parks and Trails ......-.---...—...-.—.........—......—......—..—.....
Physical Profile ...-.—...—...--...—.......--.--.—.-....-..—.....
Goals and Policies ..................................................................
Parks and Trails Plan ..............................................................
Neighborhood Planning Districts ....................................................
Planning District 1 —...—...—...—.--.—....-...—...--.--...—.—
Planning District 2 ...--...—....—....--...--.—......—...—...—...
Planning District 3 .....—.......-.—....--.-_...—.--.------.
Planning District .....-....-......--....--..--......—...----..
Planning District 5 ........—....--...—.-_....—..—.--...—...—....
Planning
District 6-.—........—.-...—...-....—...---...--.—....
-Comprehensive Plan 2018
Cif_ �ofK�ok Park
Heights
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
Implementation...........................................................................
Appendix A — Anticipated Capital Improvement Program
Appendix B — Draft Proposed Parks and Trails Map
List of Maps:
Oak Park Heights Base Map .........................................................
Land Use Issues Map..................................................................
Transportation Issues Map............................................................
Community Facilities Issues Map ...................................................
Parks and Trails Issues Map .........................................................
Natural Environmental Features Map ..............................................
Existing Land Use Map................................................................
ZoningMap...............................................................................
Future Annexation Plan Map .........................................................
Proposed Land Use Map..............................................................
Roadway Jurisdiction Map............................................................
Functional Classification Map ........................................................
Traffic Volumes Map....................................................................
St. Croix River Crossing and Highway 36 Alternative Map ...................
TransitMap...............................................................................
Transportation Plan Map..............................................................
Traffic Analysis Zones Map...........................................................
Community Facilities Map.............................................................
Existing Parks and Trails Map ................................................... --
Washington County Park and Trail Map ..........................................
Planning Districts — Proposed Land Use Map ...................................
Planning District 1 Map................................................................
PlanningDistrict 2 Map................................................................
Planning District 3 Map................................................................
Planning District 4 Map................................................................
Planning District 5 Map................................................................
Planning District 6 Map................................................................
Comprehensive Plan 2018
6
City of Oak Park Heights
tw,
F
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
List of Tables:
PopulationGrowth ......................................................................
1990-2004 Oak Park Heights Household Information .........................
Oak Park Heights 1990 and 2000 Household Type ............................
Oak Park Heights Population Growth by Age Group ...........................
1990 and 2000 Occupations ..........................................................
2005 Washington County Employment ...........................................
2000 Educational Attainment .........................................................
1989 and 1999 Income ................................................................
Oak Park Heights 1989 and 1999 Household Income .........................
ExistingLand Use .......................................................................
2007 Zoning Breakdown ...............................................................
Summary of Zoning District Classifications and Requirements .............
Household and Population Growth .................................................
Population, Households and Employment Projections ........................
Functional Classification of Streets .................................................
Minnesota Department of Transportation — Access Control ..................
Allocation of Forecasts to Traffic Analysis Zones ...............................
School District Enrollment .............................................................
Existing Park Components ............................................................
Comprehensive Plan 2018
City of Oak Park Heights
INTRODUC`T'ION AND COMMUNITY BACKGROUND
The City of Oak Park Heights is in Washington County, Minnesota, on the banks of the
lower St. Croix Scenic Riverway, which is the state border between Minnesota and
Wisconsin. Situated between the Cities of Stillwater and Bayport and 20 miles east of
the Minneapolis -St. Paul Metropolitan Area, the City's population has increased in the
last 10 years to almost 5,000 persons. The City is bordered by the City of Stillwater to
the north, the City of Bayport to the southeast, Baytown Township to the south and Lake
Elmo/Stillwater Township to the west. The area was first platted in the late 1800s. Oak
Park Heights was incorporated as a village in 1938 and became a City by State Statute
in 1972. The City has been designated as Suburban by the Metropolitan Council, the
regional planning agency in the area.
As a component of the St. Croix Valley, Oak Park Heights offers an attractive quality of
life with excellent educational, health care, and cultural facilities. Oak Park Heights is a
very diversified community, being home to a large commercial/retail area with many
national businesses and local enterprises, including the Highway 36 and County
Highway 15 commercial areas, Xcel Energy power generation plant, the Sunnyside
Marina, and the State of Minnesota Correctional Facility.
Housing in Oak Park Heights is both attractive and diverse and features starter homes,
bluff line river view homes, riverfront condominiums, and the Boutwells Landing senior
community. The City currently has over 100 acres of designated park space comprised
of five municipal park facilities. The parks consist of skating/hockey rinks and warming
houses, softball/baseball fields, picnic shelters, tennis courts, and general playground
equipment. The City has been awarded the "Tree City USA" award for the past 36
years.
The City operates under a "Plan A, Council -Administrator'' torm of government,
consisting of a Mayor and a four -member Council. The Mayor and Council are elected
at large on a non-partisan basis, the Mayor for a four-year term and the Council for four-
year staggered terms. The Council is responsible for adopting policies affecting City
affairs, approving the annual budget, enacting ordinances and resolutions, and
providing policy direction for City departments and activities. The City Council currently
serves as the Economic Development Authority. The City has a Planning Commission
and a Parks Commission.
The Comprehensive Plan was last updated in 2008. The Metropolitan Land Planning
Act requires communities to review and update their Comprehensive Plans every 10
years, with the next update for Oak Park Heights due in December 2018. The City will
also be updating its utility plans, Comprehensive Park and Trail System Plan, and
amend its Zoning Ordinance and map, as necessary.
5
ComiDrehensive Plan 2018
City of Oak Park Heights Page 1
f 1 r
INTRODUCTION AND COMMUNITY BACKGROUND
The City of Oak Park Heights Mayor, City Council, Planning Commission, and staff have
recognized the need for the update of the 2018 Comprehensive Plan as it is outdated
with the current growth and change over the past 10 years. The Planning Commission
and Parks Commission have been tasked with developing the draft Comprehensive
Plan and the Parks and Trails Plan.
The Comprehensive Plan document will be divided into specific sections, as found in
the Table of Contents, located in the beginning of this document. The process by which
the plan has been developed can be divided into five sections including issues
identification, inventory, policy planning, plan development, and implementation. Each
portion of the process will involve citizen participation and involvement of City officials.
Issues identification involves a Community Survey, and opinion gathering process to
determine a specific set of issues that must be addressed by the Comprehensive Pian.
The inventory consists of documenting the City's existing conditions at a point in time.
The results of gathering inventory information will provide a basis of text, charts, and
maps illustrating the most relevant collected information.
The next stage, policy planning, will determine future directives for Oak Park Heights
through the identification of goals and policies. The City will also develop its vision
statement. The policies that are created will promote direction for the subsequent
planning sections of the document. The stage that follows consists of development of
the physical plans and programs which will Jay out the City's proposed land use,
transportation, and community facilities plans. The final stage, implementation, will
involve a discussion on how the plan will be used and brought into action. It will also
provide the opportunity for the City to prioritize the plans and projects that result from
the planning efforts of the Comprehensive Plan.
On the following page, a base map of the City is represented. The map illustrates the
corporate boundaries of the City at the beginning of 2017. This will be used throughout
the plan as the basis for mapping the City of Oak Park Heights.
..t
Comprehensive Plan 2018
City of Oak Park Heights Page 2
a
SOCIAL INVENTORY
INTRODUCTION
The City of Oak Park Heights has recognized the need to develop a Comprehensive
Plan as a means of addressing and accommodating the community's future growth and
development. The purpose of the Social Inventory is to identify past trends, to
document the current conditions and to help identify issues for establishing a hierarchy
of planning policies. These policies will help the community address a broad base of
land use and development issues. With the help of a solid information and policy base,
decision makers can evaluate and prioritize proposals for the community while fulfilling
the City's long-term goals and objectives.
Additional inventory information will be included in each of the individual sections of this
plan. Population trends and projections will be included within the Land Use section.
Oak Park Heights as well as Washington County population projections will be
evaluated to show the overall growth, as well as detailing change by age groups.
POPULATION GROWTH
The statistics in the following table illustrate the trends in population within Oak Park
Heights, surrounding cities, and Washington County. Between 2000 and 2015, the City
grew at a rate of 19 percent, and Washington County grew at a 25 percent rate. The
populations of the surrounding communities of Stillwater and Lake Elmo have been
growing at a similar pace since 2000, while the City of Bayport has seen a slower rate of
population growth at 16 percent.
The population increases in the City have been attributed to job growth, and a continued
increase in senior residential development in Oak Park Heights. The 2015 estimate and
the projections of population reflected in the chart below is from the Metropolitan
Council. The Metropolitan Council numbers are generally regarded as being accurate
population estimates during non -census years.
2000,20 0, 2015 AND PROJECTED POPULATION
GROWTH
2000
2010
2015
2020
Projection
2030
Projection
2040
Projection
2000-2015
% Chan e
Oak Park
Heights
3,957
4,445
4,706
4,880
5,300
5,700
19%
Bayport
3,162
3,471
3,675
3,970
4,340
4,640
16%
Stillwater
15,323
18,277
19,754
20,600
21,800
22,800
29%
Lake Elmo
6,863
8,061
8,643
10,500
14,100
18,200
26%
Washington Co.
201,130 1
238,136
251,015
268,410
299,130
330,200
25%
Source: U.S. Census, Estimates from Metropolitan Council
L�
_ Comprehensive Plan 2018
City of Oak Park Heights Page 5
SOCIAL INVENTORY
HOUSEHOLD GROWTH AND TYPES
In looking at the data for Oak Park Heights since 2000, the number of households has
steadily increased, while the number of persons per household has slightly declined.
This is likely reflective of an increase in persons age 65 and over. It also reflects the
natural trend of people having fewer children and the dynamics of the modern family.
The 2015 estimate of population and households reflected below is from the
Metropolitan Council.
2000-2015 OAK PARK HEIGHTS HOUSEHOLD INFORMATION
Year
Population Households
Persons Per
Household
2000
3,957 1,528
2.26
2010
4,445 1,911
2.05
2015
4,706 2,178
1.93
Source: U.S. Census, Metropolitan Council
The 2000 and 2010 Census provides a demographic profile of the households in Oak
Park Heights as illustrated in the following table. As the table indicates, the households
of married families with children decreased significantly from 21.7 percent in 2000 to
14.4 percent in 2010. The number of unmarried families with children also decreased.
The percentage of households where people lived alone or where in non -family
households increased.
2000, 2010 OAK PARK HEIGHTS HOUSEHOLD TYPE
Household Type
_
Household
Percentage
2000
2010
Lived Alone
34.6%
43.4%
Families Without Children
28.7%
30.3%
Married Families with Children
21.7%
14.4%
Unmarried Families with Children
9.9%
4.04%
Non -Family Households
4.3%
8.08%
Source: U.S. Census
Comprehensive Plan 2018
4,- City of Oak Park Heights Page 6
SOCIAL INVENTORY
AGE CHARACTERISTICS
The following table illustrates Oak Park Heights' population by age group. The table
utilizes information from the 2000 and 2010 Census as well as a projection for 2015
from the Metropolitan Council. In 2000, the labor force (ages 20-59) represented the
largest age group, at 59.3 percent. In 2010, this age group was again the City's
largest, accounting for 52.1 percent of the total population. By 2015, that age group had
fallen to 49.9 percent of the population. At 24.2 percent in 2000, the next largest age
group for that Census year was school age children under the age of 19. By 2010, this
population group had fallen to 99.6 percent and 16.3 percent in 2015. Population
growth over these 15 years has been in the retired persons category with the persons
over 80 years old increasing from 4.0 percent in 2000, 12.3 percent in 2010, and 17.2
percent in 2015. Changes in the demographics of the City and surrounding area will
have significant planning implications for the future.
2000, 2010, 2015 OAK PARK HEIGHTS POPULATION GROWTH BY AGE GROUP
e Group 2000 2000% 1 2010 2010% 20152015%
SchoolAge
Under 19 960 24.2 1 852 19.6 775 16.3
Labor Force
20-39
1,277
32.2
1,008
23.2
1,097
23.1
40-59
1,076
27.1
1,255
28.9
1,270
26.8
60-64
136
3.4
225
5.2
141
2.9
Sub -Total
2,489
62.9
2,488
57.3
2,508
52.9
Retired
65-69
122
3.1
158
3.6
198
4.1
70-79
225
5.6
304
7.0
437
9.2
80+
161
4.0
537
12.3
819
17.2
Sub -Total
508
12.8
999
23.0
1,454
30.7
TOTAL
3,957
100%
4,339*
100%
4,737
100%
Source: U.S. Census, Metropolitan Council
*Population by age group not adjusted for corrected total population
Com rehensive Plan 201$
' City of Oak Park Heights Page 7
SOCIAL INVENTORY
OCCUPATION
Information from the 2010 and 2014 Census regarding employment demographics for
Oak Park Heights and Washington County are depicted in the table below. The majority
of those employed in the City both in 2000 and 2014 were in retail. The second largest
category was health care. Employment demographics for Washington County follow a
similar pattern with health care being the largest and retail second. The numbers
indicate the recovery of certain industries following the economic downturn.
2010 AND 2014 OCCUPATIONS
Oak Park Hei hts
Washingon
Coun
2010
%
2014
%
2010
%
2014
%
Accommodation and Food
Services
285
7
237
6
6,365
10
7,273
10
Administrative
32
-
24
-
3,183
5
2,697
4
Agricultural, Forestry,
Fishing and Hunting
1
-
1
-
500
1
529
1
Arts and Entertainment
41
1
34
1
1,257
2
1,329
2
Construction
184
5
311
7
2,700
4
3,450
5
Educational Services
278
7
255
6
7,647
12
8,076
11
Finance and Insurance
11
-
47
1
2,267
4
3,517
5
Health Care
775
19
790
19
9,363
15
10,950
15
Information
8
-
13
-
548
1
488
1
Management companies
and Enterprises
500
12
495
12
1,011
2
1,373
2
Manufacturing and Mining
65
2
55
1
6,938
10
7,314
10
Other services
219
5
171
4
2,409
4
3,035
4
Professional and Technical
65
2
77
2
2,642
4
3,229
4
Public Administration
352
9
353
9
3,384
5
3,676
5
Real Estate
47
1
44
1
678
1
701
1
Retail Trade
899
22
958
23
8,533
13
10,200
14
Transportation and
Warehousing
243
6
237
6
2,366
4
1,745
2
Utilities
0
-
1
-
29
-
8
4
Wholesale Trade
58
2
77
2
1,814
3
2,528
TOTAL
4,063
100
4,180
100 163,634
100
72,118
100
Source: U.S. Census
Comprehensive Plan 2018
City of Oak Park Heights Page 8
SOCIAL 1NVLNTORY
EMPLOYMENT
The following table represents the overall employment numbers for Oak Park Heights,
projections to 2040 and the percent of change from one year to the next. The City
regards the employment projects from the Metropolitan Council as optimistic with the
limited land available for future commercial development.
1990-2040 OAK PARK HEIGHTS EMPLOYMENT
Number
Percent
Change
1990
2,200
2000
2,713
23.3
2010
4,358
60.6
2015
4,524
3.8
2020
5,900
30.4
2030
6,800
15.2
2040
7,500
10.3
Source:
Council
U.S. Census, Estimates from Metropolitan
Comprehensive Plan 2018
City of Oak Park Heights Page 9
5 .._
SOCIAL INVENTORY
EDUCATION
The following table illustrates education levels for residents ages 25 and over in 2010
and 2015. As indicated for 2010, 93.1 percent of the population has attained a high
school diploma or higher degree, while 31.1 percent of the population has attained a
bachelor's degree or higher. For 2015, 94.8 percent of the population has obtained a
high school degree or higher and 33.5 percent have been awarded a bachelor's degree
or higher.
2010, 2015 OAK PARK HEIGHTS
EDUCATIONAL ATTAINMENT es 25 and over
Level Attained
2010
2010%
2015
2015%
Did Not Graduate High School
224
6.9
193
5.2
High School Graduate
966
29.7
1,018
27.1
Some College (no degree)
720
22.2
934
24.9
Associate and Vocational Degree
328
10.1
350
9.3
Bachelor's Degree
742
22.8
895
23.9
Graduate/Professional Degree
269
8.3
360
9.6
TOTAL
3,249
1 Oq%t
3,750
100%
% of High School Grad +
% of Bachelor's Degree +
93.1%
31.1%
94.9%
33.5%
Source: U.S. Census, Metropolitan Council
Corn ehensive Plan 2018
City of Oak Park Heights Page 10
4
SOCIAL INVENTORY
INCOME
The 1990, 2000, 2010, and 2015 data regarding income for Oak Park Heights and
Washington County is illustrated in the following tables. The first column indicates per
capita income; the second, median family income; third, percent below poverty level and
forth, individuals below poverty level. The per capita income and median family income
levels for the City are below that of Washington County. A higher percentage of people
are below the poverty level in Oak Park Heights than Washington County. Oak Park
Heights has experienced a decrease in median family income from 2010 to 2015.
1990, 2000, 2010, 2015 INCOME
Per Capita
Income
Median
Family
Income
Percent
Below
Pove Level
Individuals
Below Poverty
Level
1900
Oak Park Heights $15,200
$33,200
7.9%
275
Washington County $17,400
$44,100
4.4%
6,419
2000
Oak Park Heights
$23,300
$48,400
3.4%
128
Washington County
$28,100
$66,300
2.9%
5,833
2p'I.0
Oak Park Heights
$28,600
$50,400
11.0%
489
Washington County
$36,200
$79,100
5.2%
12,383
2076
Oak Park Heights
$30,600 $49,800
10.0%
470
Washington County
$38,500 $83,700
5.4%
13,555
Source: U.S. Census, Metropolitan Council
Comprehensive Plan 2018
-� City of Oak Park Heights Page 11
IMPLEMENTATION
Comprehensive Plan 2018
City of Oak Park Heights Page 13
ISSUES IDENTIFICATION
INTRODUCTION
The Planning Commission and City Council have each discussed community issues as
part of the planning process. The representation of these City leaders and officials has
provided the insight and initial direction for the process. The community involvement will
continue throughout the comprehensive planning process with public meetings at the end
of each stage. Additionally, as an initial means of shaping the Comprehensive Plan, a
Community Survey was developed to gain insight from residents of the community.
This report provides a summary of the issues and directions which community officials
and residents have identified. As such, it will be utilized in conjunction with the technical
data compiled in the data collection process to formulate the policies as well as physical
layout of the community. Throughout the issues identification process, it was realized
that there is agreement on most of the issues but also differences in the philosophy and
details of the approaches to be taken. An additional purpose of this report is therefore to
highlight these matters so that they can be addressed as part of the planning process.
PLANNING PROCESS
The community-based information and directives summarized in this section serve to set
the stage for completion of the Comprehensive Plan. Complementing the issues
identification stage of the process will be the technical inventory of the community that is
found in each of the subsections of the plan. This information will provide decision -
makers with a basis from which problems and issues can be identified, objectives
discussed and required changes made. The results of this effort will be goals and policies,
as well as plans that are developed on a City-wide basis and for specific neighborhoods.
It should be noted that the issues identification study is only an initial forum for community
input into the planning process. As draft material is prepared, meetings will be held with
the Planning Commission, which will be the primary group to hold public hearings and
discussions on the plan. The Mayor, City Council, staff, general citizenry and business
interests will also be provided ample opportunity for review and discussion through
meetings and public hearings. While such involvement will be demanding, it is essential
for completion of a Comprehensive Plan which is truly reflective of Oak Park Height's
goals and objectives.
A graphic at the end of this section illustrates the Comprehensive Plan Process.
' �4
_ C_Mp_rehensive Plan 2018
} . ' City of Oak Park Heights Page 1
ISSUES IDENTIFICATION
COMMUNITY SURVEY
As an initial means of shaping the Comprehensive Plan, a Community Surrey was
developed to gain insight from residents of the community. The Community Survey was
made available on the City website and distributed at the Party in the Park event on June
8, 2017. There were 96 respondents to the survey, 83 were residents of the community.
While the survey is recognized as not being statistically significant, the results provided
the basis for the discussion of issues for this section. The respondents to the survey
identified themselves into these general categories:
Resident of the City
86.5%
Business Owner
3.1%
Visitor
5.2%
Other
5.2%
TOTAL 100%
Most of the resident respondents (48.3 percent) have lived in Oak Park Heights more
than 10 years. Another 32.2 percent have lived in the City less than five years. The
respondents to the survey generally reflect the demographic makeup of the City, although
a majority (31.0 percent) were 55 years and over. Most of the respondents (43.7 percent)
did not have children currently living in the household. A summary of the key findings of
the survey are as follows:
Is Oak Park Heights a better place to live and work today than when they first moved here
or began to work here:
1. Yes — 55.9 percent
2. Unsure — 35.7 percent
3. No — 8.3 percent
The favorite things about Oak Park Heights included:
1. The City parks and trails
2. The St. Croix River
3. The location
4. The small-town atmosphere
5. Schools
6. Retail businesses
}� 'A
Comprehensive Plan 2018
tF r
.� City of Oak Park Heights Page 2
ISSUES IDENTIFICATION
The most important challenges facing the City:
1. Protecting the St. Croix River and other bodies of water
2. Tax rates
3. Maintaining and enhancing municipal services
4. Reducing crime and enhancing public safety
5. Capital investments in community facilities, parks
6. Improving pedestrian and bicycle access and safety
Respondents had the following opinion regarding City streets:
1. Excellent — 9.5 percent
2. Above Average — 42.8 percent
3. Average — 39.3 percent
Respondents had the following opinion regarding the condition of City parks and trails:
1. Excellent — 23.2 percent
2. Above Average — 56.9 percent
3. Average — 16.2 percent
Respondents utilization of a City Park or trail is as follows:
1. Every day —17.0 percent
2. A few times per week — 37.8 percent
3. On occasion — 26.8 percent
A copy of the complete results of this survey, including written opinions raised by the
survey respondents, is found in the Appendix of this plan. The Community Attitude
section, as follows was partially shaped by the results of the survey.
COMMUNITY ATTITUDE
The overriding attitude that was expressed by the residents of Oak Park Heights during
the issue gathering process was the positive attitude about the community and the long-
term prospects for continued growth and improvement. Residents cited the quality of life
in the area, the amenities of the nearby rivers, lakes, and wetlands, the City parks and
trails, the small-town feel, and the school systems and the retail businesses that
contribute to making Oak Park Heights an attractive place to live. Those persons who
took the survey and were involved in the opportunities and issues discussions as part of
Comprehensive Plan 2018
City of Oak Park Heights Page 3
ISSUES IDENTIFICATION
the Comprehensive Plan process listed the following as the positive aspects of the
community:
The City is situated in such a way that it is close to the St. Croix River Valley, rural
areas and open space.
2. Excellent access to the freeway system which provides connections to the entire
Minneapolis St. Paul area.
3. Positive small town/City atmosphere.
4. Excellent City park and trail system.
5. The community provides an adequate land use density with residential,
commercial, and industrial/business warehouse uses.
6. The community has several shopping, recreational and entertainment options for
its residents.
7. There are excellent housing options with two premier senior living complexs in the
City.
8. The school system is excellent and the high school is located within the City.
9. The City has a good government structure with a high level of long term
participation on City boards and commissions.
10. The taxes are relatively low in comparison to other area cities.
There were few negative comments made by residents and most dealt with issues related
to the Highway 36 transportation corridor and the intersections that access the Oak Park
Heights frontage roads and street network. Residents question what impact the St. Croix
River Crossing will have on the community related to traffic and development.
LAND USE ISSUES
The following land use issues are recognized:
• Preservation of the high quality of life in the City neighborhoods.
• A balance of housing types for all age groups.
• Buildings and property in the City kept in a good state of repair and maintenance.
L Comprehensive Plan 2018g
City of Oak Park Heights Page 4
ISSUES IDENTIFICATION
• Preservation of affordable housing, improvement of low income housing and
affordability of living.
• Diverse and high quality commercial development and redevelopment.
• impact of the St. Crossing River Crossing on the community and future
development.
• Creation of living wage jobs and job growth.
• Maximization of the amount of green space in developmentlredevelopment.
• Protecting the St. Croix River, wetlands, streams and other water bodies in the
area.
• Community support for application of sustainable development practices in all
public and private sector redevelopment.
TRANSPORTATION ISSUES
The following transportation issues are recognized:
• Continued roadway and sidewalk maintenance and repair.
• Traffic congestion throughout the City, but in particular at the Highway 36
frontage roads and Norell/Osgood Avenues.
• Commuter bus service improvements.
• Sidewalk and trail linkages and connections.
• Traffic speed.
Pedestrian/bicycle crossings throughout the community.
• Appearance of private/public parking lots.
COMMUNITY FACILITIES ISSUES
The following land community facilities issues are recognized:
• Continued maintenance and updates to the City Hall and public works facility.
Support for the Bayport Fire Department, their personnel, equipment and
facilities.
• Park and trail facility maintenance and upgrades.
r
Comprehensive Plan 2018
�� City of Oak Park Heights Page 5
ISSUES IDENTIFICATION
PARKS AND TRAILS ISSUES — GENERAL
The following parks and trail issues are recognized:
• Preservation of and maintenance of existing parks and park facilities.
• Repair and maintenance of trails.
• Trail connections within Oak Park Heights and to adjoining cities.
• Safety of the parks and pedestrian/bicycle paths.
• Landscaping and streetscaping of City streets and property.
• Connection of the distinct areas of Oak Park separated by Highways 36, and
County Road 15.
• Pedestrian/bicycle crosswalk improvements.
• Disability access for sidewalks and trails.
• Park and trail signage improvements.
• Continued and expanded park programming.
• Possible splash pad.
ADMINISTRATIVE ISSUES
Administrative issues include those matters under government control, regulations, or
initiatives. The following administrative issues are recognized:
Preservation of existing community character and quality.
• Protection of water resources and stormwater education for the general public.
• Drinking water safety and purity.
• Budgeting for street, water and sewer repairs.
• Enhancing the City with land scapinglplantings and welcoming entrances.
• Tree planting programs to increase diversity and tree cover.
• Tree management programs to prevent tree diseases.
• Preservation of the small-town atmosphere.
Improved traffic flow through City.
• Incorporating low impact development principles and practices into public and
private projects.
Continuation of good relations and cooperative efforts with Washington County
Stillwater Area Schools, and surrounding communities.
• As a follow up to the Comprehensive Plan, the need to review its Zoning
Ordinance and Design Guidelines.
lit
Comprehensive Plan 2018
I?- City of Oak Park Heights Page 6
ISSUES IDENTIFICATION
HEALTHY LIFESTYLE ISSUES
Active and healthy lifestyles issues identified from the community include the following:
Connectivity/Access:
• Promotion of safe and barrier -free access to healthy food supplies, pharmacies,
medical services, employment opportunities and schools.
• Increasing access to public transportation.
• Safety of walking and biking paths and crosswalks.
Environment and Housing:
• Housing quality and safety.
• Affordable housing options in the City.
• Promotion of sustainable development in the community.
• Reduce, reuse and recycle.
Children:
• Organized activity and recreational programs.
• Safe routes to schools as an alternative to busing.
Promoting and access to healthy food choices such as fruits and vegetables.
Encouraging less screen time and more active time.
Mental Health:
More trees, green space, landscaping and plants.
Stress reduction, less traffic and transportation conflict.
Social Capital:
• Preserving small town atmosphere.
• Encouraging community events.
• Walking clubs, biking clubs, block parties.
Water Quality:
• Treatment of stormwater prior to release into lakes rivers and streams.
• Use of rain gardens, green roofs, and other natural filtering systems.
• Use of natural landscapes to reduce runoff from yards and hard surfaces.
• Promotion of low impact development (LID) to promote environmental quality.
Comprehensive Plan 2018
City of Oak Park Heights Page 7
ISSUES IDENTIFICATION
COMPREHENSIVE PLANNING PROCESS
VISIONING / PLANNING TACTICS
PLANNING INVENTORY
Social - Physical - Economic - Financial
Profile
14 a
POLICY PLAN
Inv nioa yIssues c)als &
Analysis Summary Poncles
PLANS - PROGRAMS AM - PROJECTS
IMPLEMENTATION
ra�
9'
Comprehensive Plan 2018
City of Oak Park Heights Page 8
MISSION STATEMENT, VALUES AND
COMMUNITY GOALS
The City of Oak Park Heights has developed a mission statement and values. The
mission statement and values will guide the preparation of the Comprehensive Plan and
influence how the City will implement the policies and plans that result from this effort.
MISSION STATEMENT
The City shall strive to provide and promote a living environment with quality public
services and facilities while protecting the community's cultural, historical and natural
resources.
VALUES
• Vibrant and Diverse Culture: Our community thrives from being a welcoming and
creative place that values and respects the opinions and contributions of all people.
• Sustainability: We embrace public and private actions to preserve and enhance our
natural and built environments for all generations.
• Excellence and Quality in the Delivery of Services: We strive for excellence in
providing quality community service while maintaining fiscal responsibility with public
resources.
• Economic Vitality: Our community experiences economic prosperity through
diversity, interdependence and adaptability.
• Community Character: We strive to preserve the higher quality of life, smallness and
friendliness that this place offers.
• Healthy Community: We flourish as a community by caring about our residents needs
and supporting efforts to reach everyone's full potential.
COMMUNITY GOALS
The goals are designed to address and influence the quality of life through the physical
environment. The goal statements have guided the preparation of the Comprehensive
Plan and influence how the City will position itself in its actions and practices. The goals
are not listed in a priority ranking; all are regarded as equally important statements for the
City's direction.
Comprehensive Plan 2008
x.
City of Oak Park Heights Page 39
MISSION STATEMENT, VALUES AND
COMMUNITY GOALS
• Actively involve and serve all our residents. Celebrate the diversity and the well-
being of all residents. Respect individual rights, yet be guided by our concern for the
common good.
• Maintain and improve community health and vitality. The residents of the
community must provide and maintain those resources, community facilities,
accessibility and services essential for the protection of the health, safety and welfare
of individuals.
• Encourage continued but orderly and diverse growth and redevelopment in
Oak Park Heights. To maintain a strong economic and social base for Oak Park
Heights, development and redevelopment is viewed as positive. In that the amount
of vacant, developable land is limited to primarily commercial properties, the focus of
the City will be on infill of the remaining developable land and continued
redevelopment and improvements to commercial and industrial properties.
• Preserve Small Town Character. The features and amenities of this small town are
regarded as the greatest community asset. Preserve small town character while
accommodating redevelopment, renewal and revitalization.
• Establish and maintain a desirable community image within the Twin Cities
Metropolitan Area. Oak Park Heights' reputation within the region is that of an
established community with a range of housing options and an expanding commercial
sector. The Citywill need to maintain its quality neighborhoods and commercial areas
through continued redevelopment and investment. The City will need to ensure that
development regulations are kept current, code enforcement is continued, and public
improvements are of the highest quality.
• Protect Oak Park Heights' Natural Resources. The 5t. Croix River, as well as the
wetlands, ground water, surface water resources, and trees provide natural amenities
and add significant aesthetic recreational and economic value to the community.
Preserve and protect these resources by incorporating sustainable development
principles into public and private projects.
Maintain and improve a safe, viable, orderly, productive and enhanced
environment for all residents of the community. The community should provide
for planned and orderly land use and a functional transportation system to serve and
connect, but not disrupt, residential areas of the community. Moreover, the
community should provide and properly maintain those resources, community
facilities, and services essential for the protection of the health, safety and general
Comi3rehensive Plan 2008
+ V'
._ City of Oak Park Heights Page 40
MISSION STATEMENT, VALUES AND
COMMUNITY GOALS
welfare of individuals (schools, parks and trails) and necessary for the community
(water, sewer, streets, city administration, police, and fire protection).
• Plan for coordinated, orderly growth and limited extra -territorial expansion.
Growth patterns in Oak Park Heights will include infill development, redevelopment,
and potential outward growth beyond its current boundaries. Extra -territorial growth
will only occur at the request of the property owner and agreement by the adjoining
jurisdiction. A planned and orderly land use with a functional transportation system
that accommodates all residents is desired to provide continuity and connections
throughout the community.
• Promote a responsible fiscal balance (revenue versus service costs) on an
ongoing basis. The policies of the Comprehensive Plan are intended to outline the
community's desires and set forth guidelines for how these desires are to be
achieved. These issues must be continually assessed in terms of value compared to
costs incurred by the City for implementation. Indicators of value include, but are not
limited to, potential revenue, facility enhancement, and the common good of the Oak
Park Heights community.
d.r _ _ Comprehensive Plan 2008
r fir` N� City of Oak Park Heights Page 41
LAND USE - INTRODUCTION
The basic intent of the comprehensive planning process is to provide a well-founded
and coordinated decision-making framework to guide both public and private
development and community improvements. In this regard, this represents the
development framework to guide land use decisions for the City of Oak Park Heights.
The Land Use section is based upon the physical profile information, as well as the
community issues which have been identified in determining community goals and
policies.
The Land Use section assists policy makers in daily decision-making. Since the maps
and plans in the Comprehensive Plan may be quickly outdated, reliance on a land use
map for guidance on a specific issue may be difficult for decision -makers. However, the
relative consistency of community goals and policies ties the land use activities together
over the long term.
The Land Use Plan is the basic plan for growth and development in the community. It
establishes the general parameters, issues, and goals which are to be achieved. It
further defines and establishes direction for the basic elements of the development
regulations that will be updated after the planning process is completed.
The arrangement of this section includes the Physical Profile of the City to include the
Existing Land Use Map, Goals and Policies related to land use, and finally, the Land
Use Plan. In sum, the Land Use Plan provides the foundation for guiding and managing
land use expansion and redevelopment within Oak Park Heights. It determines
directives and means for specific assignments and accomplishments. Additionally, it
establishes the ground work and parameters for facilities planning.
Com rehensive Plan 2018
City of Oak Park Heights Page 1
LAND USE - PHYSICAL PROFILE
NATURAL ENVIRONMENT FEATURES
Topography
The terrain in Oak Park Heights can be characterized as gently rolling in the west and
increasing in slopes until a ridge of severe slope at the edge of the St. Croix River
Valley. The least significant topographic changes occur in the western portions of the
City. The most severe topography changes extend from the eastern portion of the State
of Minnesota Correctional Facility grounds north to the Highway 36. This topography
change is best described as a ridge separating the City's higher elevations from the
lower elevations of the river valley.
Solis
The soils found in an area often determine the type and extent of urban development
that can occur in the area. Factors such as soil strength, drainage and frost
characteristics may serve to limit the amount and type of urban development that can
be accommodated on the land.
The United States Department of Agriculture completed a detailed survey of soils within
Washington County, including the area of Oak Park Heights, in 1977. While it should be
recognized that any large-scale mapping of soils results in an extremely generalized
graphic statement, the information does serve to illustrate the relationship between soils
and the areas available for development.
Generally, the soils within Oak Park Heights belong to one of three soil associations.
These categories are as follows:
Santiago -Kingsley. This soil association is characterized by undulating to steep
slopes, are well drained with a moderately coarse texture. Soils within this association
are characterized as being good to fair for supporting urban development.
Antigo-Chetek-Mahtomedi. Soils in this association are generally formed in outward
areas with slopes ranging from nearly level to steep. These soils are typically well to
excessively drained with a medium to coarse texture. These soils are generally well
suited for supporting urban development.
Antigo-Comstock. These soils are generally level to moderately sloping and are
formed predominantly in underlying sandy outwash plains and glacial lake plains. The
main limitation of this series for urban development is susceptibility to frost heaving and
a high-water table in low lying areas.
Comprehensive Plan 2018
City of Oak Park Heights Page 3
LAND USE - PHYSICAL PROFILE
A more detailed description of the soils found within Oak Park Heights, in terms of
suitability for urban development, is provided on maps available at City Hall. Generally,
the soils along the river bluffs and on the State of Minnesota Correctional Facility
grounds on the southern area of the City are poor for urban development purposes. Of
greater importance, the Department of Agriculture has classified most of the soils in the
western portion of the City as moderate for urban development purposes. The
limitations of these soils are related mostly to the slopes of the soil types found in this
area.
WETLANDS
The City of Oak Park Heights contains wetlands which are generally widespread
throughout the community as shown on the following Natural Environmental Features
Map. Many of these wetlands are large and represent potential physical barriers to
development and street connections. Most of these wetlands are in the western areas
of the City. The largest of the wetlands in Oak Park Heights, Perro Pond, is in the
southeastern portion of the City. This wetland is located almost entirely within the
boundaries of the State of Minnesota Correctional Facility and Valley View Park.
These wetlands serve an important function as ponding areas for excess storm water
runoff. In addition, these areas are also valuable for flood water retention, ground water
recharge, nutrient assimilation, wildlife habitat and aesthetics. In 1991, the Wetlands
Conservation Act was passed requiring the preservation of all wetland areas unless
federal and state approvals are granted. The filling of designated wetlands requires that
the wetland be mitigated at a 2:1 ratio, that is, for every acre of wetland removed, two
acres would need to be replaced.
VEGETATION
Existing natural vegetation masses are found throughout Oak Park Heights. The largest
areas of vegetative cover are in the western areas of the City and around the large
wetland area which extends from the State of Minnesota Correctional Facility grounds
through Valley View Park.
IrAK Comprehensive Plan 2018
City of Oak Park Heights Page 4
LAND USE - PHYSICAL PROFILE
FLOODPLAIN
A small area on the extreme eastern portion of the City adjacent to the St. Croix River
Valley has been designated by the Federal Emergency Management Agency as being
within the 100 -year floodway. Due to the bluffs leading up from the St. Croix River
Valley, the remainder of the City is not affected by flooding during high water periods of
the St. Croix River. Those areas within the 100 -year floodway are identified on the
Natural Environment Features Map.
POLLUTION
Pollution has generally not been an issue in Oak Park Heights. The Minnesota Pollution
Control Agency provides information on past pollution problems which have been
reported. In addition to minor chemical leaks or spills, typically gasoline or oil
associated with businesses, one significant site was identified. The Xcel fly ash
disposal site, which is south of Highway 36 and east of Osgood Avenue, was used to
dispense of an ash by-product created at the Allen S. King power generating facility
located adjacent to the St. Croix River. The site has been capped and is now Oak Park
Crossing Park. The fly ash monitoring will continue under the management of Xcel but
the park is under the management of the City.
Another potential pollution issue is the Baytown Township groundwater contamination
site which is the result of the disposal or spillage of trichloroethylene (TCE) in the area
south of Highway 15 and west of Manning Avenue, and the use or spillage of carbon
tetrachloride at a nearby grain storage facility. The site consists of an area of
groundwater contamination that is more than six square miles and affects four major
groundwater aquifers. Although there has been no issue for the City of Oak Park
Heights' municipal water system, the City continues to monitor the spread of the
contamination and will consider the pollution impact with any new well or well
reconditioning. The area west of Osgood Avenue in the City is included in a Drinking
Water Supply Management area as identified by the Minnesota Pollution Control
Agency.
Commrehensive Pian 2018
City of Oak Park Heights Page 7
LAND USE - PHYSICAL PROFILE
DEVELOPMENT PATTERNS
The development patterns of land use in the City of Oak Park Heights are clearly
established by the influence of both man-made and natural environmental features.
The most significant influences have been Highway 36 and the power line
easement/lines from the Allen S. King power generating facility. Development pattems
in Oak Park Heights and other jurisdictions have also influenced the east -west
orientation of the community along Highway 36. The highways, in particular Highways
36, 15, and 95 functions as physical barriers, but also the primary connections for Oak
Park Heights to the region. The highways have also significantly influenced the location
of commercial development in the community.
The easterly portion of the community is almost completely developed. In coming
years, there will not be significant changes other than specific redevelopment in the
commercial areas. To the west of Oakgreen Avenue, there are undeveloped
commercial areas both for retail/office and bus inesslwarehouse uses. It is expected
that these areas will be completely developed in the next five to ten years. Other than
what is currently in development, there is no significant parcels of residential land
available for development in the City. There is one potential area for limited annexation,
south of Highway 36 to Manning Avenue. The City will not actively pursue annexation,
but work with property owners and adjoining jurisdictions when an owner requests
annexation to City services.
The Existing Land Use Map, as found on the following page, graphically illustrates the
distribution and variety of land use types in Oak Park Heights. The map was developed
in July 2017. An analysis of the breakdown by acreage of land use types follows the
Existing Land Use Map.
Comprehensive Plan 2018
page g
City of Oak Park Heights
,1
r
m
LAND USE - PHYSICAL PROFILE
EXISTING LAND USE ANALYSIS
The City of Oak Park Heights is 1,873 acres in size. The predominant land uses in the
City include low density residential (14 percent), commercial (11 percent), and
government (10 percent). The next largest land use category is industrial at 9 percent.
A relatively small percentage (3 percent) is vacant property, only some of which is
developable land. A detailed explanation of each land use category follows the existing
land use table.
2017 OAK PARK HEIGHTS EXISTING LAND USE
Category
Acres
Percent
of Total
Percent by
Resfdefitfal t i red. uses
..Category
Low Density
265
14%
21%
Medium Density 62 3%
High Densily 80 4%
Commer4O ah- d Industrial
Commercial
212
11%
11%
Highway Business/Warehouse 74
Industrial 170
4%
9%
13%
othar;arid Uses
School Facilities
Quasi-Public/Utility11
128
7%
1
8%
Government
192
10%
10%
Park Facilities/Open Space
140
8%
8%
Water
133 1
7%
7%
Vacant
56 1
3%
3%
Right -of -Way
349
19%
19%
TOTAL
1,872
100% 1
100%
Source: City of Oak Park Heights,
Stantec
RESIDENTIAL
As shown in the previous table, residential land use occupies 21 percent of the total
land area in the City. Low density family dwellings are scattered throughout the City.
The City's original single-family homes are in the eastern portion of the City. More
recent low-density development, however, has occurred in the western and central
portions of the City.
Medium density residential development is located primarily in four locations. First, the
development east of Osgood Avenue on Upper 56th 57th, and 58th Streets; second, on
Com rehensiye Plan 2018
City of Oak Park Heights Page 11
LAND USE - PHYSICAL PROFILE
Oxboro Avenue; third, south of Highway 36, west of Oakgreen Avenue; and within the
Boutwells Landing development.
High density residential development is primarily located in six locations. First, in the
northeast comer of the City on the St. Croix River, there is a large area of high density
residential apartments. Second, there are two high density developments south of
Highway 36 and east of Osgood Avenue, and finally, there are two locations north of
Highway 36 on both sides of Osgood Avenue and east of Osgood Avenue on Paris
Street North. Lastly, the Boutwells Landing development and the Oak Park Senior
Living development contain high density buildings.
COMMERCIAL
Existing commercial development presently accounts for 11 percent of the City's total
land use. Virtually all of the existing retail and service facilities are clustered along State
Highway 36. While there is a small scattering of vacant commercial property, the
majority of available land for commercial development is located just south of Highway
36 and Krueger Lane.
INDUSTRIAUBUSINESS WAREHOUSE
Industrial/business warehouse land uses in Oak Park Heights total 244 acres or 13
percent of the total land area in the City. Virtually all of this acreage is attributed to the
Xcel Power Plant located on the St. Croix River. Two smaller industrial areas or
business ware housinglhighway business areas are located on County Road 21 near the
southern border of the City, and the Kern Center west of County Highway 15. There are
no parcels available for future industrial development. The only area available for
additional business warehouse development is in the Kern Center at 58th Street and
County Highway 15.
GOVERNMENTAL FACILITIES
A significant amount of land within Oak Park Heights is devoted to governmental
facilities which encompass 192 acres or 10 percent of the City's total land area.
Govemmental facilities include the St. Croix Valley Sewage Treatment Plant, the State
of Minnesota Correctional Facility, City Hall, and the water tower site at Norell Avenue
and 58th Street North.
Comprehensive Plan 2018
City of Oak Park Heights Page 12
LAND USE - PHYSICAL PROFILE
SCHOOL FACILITIES
Oak Park Heights is the home to the Stillwater Area High School. The campus is 128
acres or 7 percent of the total land area.
PARKS/OPEN SPACE
The City parks are separately classified in the Land Use Table. These areas
encompass 140 acres or 8 percent of the City's total land area.
VACANT/UNDEVELOPED
The vacant/undeveloped land identified on the Existing Land Use Map and the Land
Use Table includes that which has not been developed, permanent open space, or that
which has been subdivided for development, but remains vacant. It totals 56 acres or 3
percent of the total land area in Oak Park Heights. The immediacy of the prospects for
development on these parcels varies considerably and are closely tied to the current
climate in the housing market, commercial development interest, and other variables.
PHYSICAL BARRIERS
Natural features such as lakes, streams, and wetlands, as well as constructed features
such as highways, utility lines, or existing development, often act to contain land use
and restrict access. From another perspective, many of the natural features such as
lakes, wetlands, trees, or topography can be used to positively enhance a community
and its housing and business areas. Physical barriers within Oak Park Heights include
the river, wetland areas, Highways 36 and 95, County Highway 15, and the utility line
connections.
The impact of physical barriers may be seen as having both positive and negative
aspects. On the positive side, barriers serve to define cohesive areas and to lend
structure to the arrangement of land uses, often separating uses which would otherwise
generate conflict. On the negative side, barriers may artificially constrain development,
and in separating developed areas, produce problems of access and circulation
between related land uses. The physical barriers within Oak Park Heights are seen
primarily as restricting access from north to south or east to west within the City. These
physical barriers can be overcome with improvements to the transportation system, both
by car, pedestrian and bicycle.
Comprehensive Plan 2018
City of Oak Park Heights Page 13
LAND USE - PHYSICAL PROFILE
LAND USE CONTROLS
Land uses within Oak Park Heights are presently governed by the City Zoning and
Subdivision Ordinances. Applications for development and associated plans are
reviewed by City staff and submitted to the Planning Commission and City Council for
review and approval.
The table below indicates the breakdown of existing zoning districts and the acreages
currently devoted to each within the City. Acreages for water and right-of-way have not
been included. On a following page, the Zoning Map illustrates the arrangement of
each zoning district in Oak Park Heights, showing only those districts currently within
the City.
2017 OAK PARK HEIGHTS TOTAL ZONING BREAKDOWN
Category
Acres
Percent
of Total
Percent by
Category
R-1, Single Family Residential
236
15%
R -1A, Single Family Residential
0
0%
25%
R-1 B, Single Family Residential 0 0%
RAC, Single Family Residential 0 0%
R-2, Low and Medium Density Residential 71 5%
R-3, Multiple Family Residential 50 3%
R -B, Residential Business Transitional 29 2%
B-1, Neighborhood Business
0
0%
B-2, General Business
161
11%
22%
B-3, Highway Business and Warehouse 88 6%
B-4, Limited Business
71
5%
B -W, Business/Warehousing
4
0%
1-1, Industrial
249
16%
16%
O, Open Space Conservation
392
26%
26%
P -I, Public/Institutional
0
0%
0%
PUD — Commercial
23
1%
4%
PUD - Residential 45 3%
Parks
104
7%
7%
TOTAL
1,526
100%
1000%
Source: City of Oak Park Heights, Stantec
Comprehensive Plan 2018
City of Oak Park Heights Page 14
LAND USE - PHYSICAL PROFILE
The following paragraphs summarize the districts of the Zoning Ordinance and how they
are applied in the City. The Zoning Map is found following these descriptions.
O, Open Space Conservation District
The O, Open Space Conservation District is intended to provide a district which will
allow suitable areas of the City to be retained and utilized for open space, agricultural
uses and provide a "holding" zone for newly annexed lands to ensure that development
will be staged to maintain reasonable economy in public expenditures for public utilities
and service. The district allows farming, nurseries, tree farms, green houses, and very
low density single family dwellings as a permitted use.
R-1, Single Family Residential District
The purpose of the R-1, Single Family District is to provide for low density single family
detached residential dwelling units and directly related, complementary uses. The
district is the primary single-family district in the community. The district allows single
family residential uses and recreational uses as permitted and schools, places of
worship, and bed and breakfast facilities as conditional.
R-1 A, R-113, R-1 C, Single Family Residential District
These districts allow for the same permitted and conditional uses as the R-1 District, but
at different densities. There are no areas in the community currently zoned R-1 A, R-1 B,
or R-1 C.
R-2, Low and Medium Density Residential District
The purpose of the R-2, Low and Medium Density Residential District is to provide for
low to moderate density residential dwellings and directly related, complementary uses.
Single and two-family units are allowed as permitted uses, townhomes, condominiums,
and multiple family dwelling structures with not more than four units are allowed as
conditional.
R-3, Multiple Family Residential District
The purpose of the R-3, Multiple Family Residential District is to provide for medium to
high density housing in multiple family structures and directly related, complementary
uses. Multiple family structures are a permitted use and private marina and boat
storage facilities, as well as other uses specified in previous districts, are conditional.
Comprehensive Plan 2018
' , City of Oak Park Heights Page 15
LAND USI+'. - PHYSICAL PROFILE
R -B, Residential Business Transitional District
The purpose of the R -B, Residential Business Transitional District is to provide for high
density residential use and for the transition in land use from residential to low intensity
business allowing for the intermixing of such uses. In the R -B District, multiple family
dwellings are listed as permitted uses and limited office use, nursing homes, elderly and
group housing, limited retail uses, and limited warehousing activities are conditional.
B-1, Neighborhood Business District
The purpose of the B-1, Neighborhood Business District is to provide for the
establishment of local centers for convenient, limited office, retail or service outlets
which deal directly with the customer for whom the goods or services are furnished.
These centers are to provide services and goods only for the surrounding
neighborhoods and are not intended to draw customers from the entire community.
Barber shops, beauty parlors, convenience grocery stores, and laundromats are limited
permitted uses. Conditional uses include governmental and public utility buildings, as
well as professional and commercial offices.
B-2, General Business District
The purpose of the B-2, General Business District is to provide for high intensity, retail
or service outlets which deal directly with the customer for whom the goods or services
are furnished. The uses allowed in this district are to provide goods and services on a
community market scale and located in areas which are well served by collector or
arterial street facilities. A significant portion of the commercial uses in Oak Park Heights
are zoned B-2 District. The district allows a full range of retail and commercial services
as permitted. Open and outdoor sales and service, drive throughs, automotive related
uses such as car washes, motor fuel stations and auto repair as listed conditional uses.
B-3, Highway Business and Warehousing District
The purpose of the B-3, Highway Business and Warehousing District is to provide for
the establishment of retail and wholesale sales, storage, warehousing and limited
manufacturing and production. The overall character of the B-3 District is intended to
be transitional in nature, thus uses allowed within this district shall be limited to those
which can compatibly exist adjacent to commercial and lower intensity activities. The B-
3 District allows a wide variety of commercial uses. Restaurants, auto service centers,
vehicle dealerships, mini storage, animal clinics, landscape sales and certain
educational facilities are allowed as conditional.
Comprehensive Plan 2018
City of Oak Park Heights Page 16
LAND USE - PHYSICAL PROFILE
B-4, Limited Business District
The purpose of the B-4, Limited Business District is to provide a district accommodating
retail sales, service and office functions in a highly planned and coordinated area. The
uses allowed in this district are similar to but not as extensive, especially as it relates to
automotive vehicle sales and service, as the B-2, General Business District. Retail and
commercial uses are permitted while drive in restaurants, minor auto repair, open and
outdoor storage, sales and service, and two family, townhomes and multiple family
dwellings are conditional.
B -W, Business/Warehousing District
The purpose of the B -W, Business/Warehousing District is to provide for the
establishment of wholesale and retail trade of large volume or bulk commercial items,
storage and warehousing. The overall character of the B-4 District is intended to be
transitional in nature, thus industrial uses allowed within this district shall be limited to
those which can compatibly exist adjacent to commercial and lower intensity activities.
Commercial and professional offices, printing establishments, conference centers,
indoor commercial recreation and wholesale showrooms are permitted, while open and
outdoor storage, services, sales and rental, and manufacturing are listed conditional
uses.
I, Industrial District
The purpose of the I, Industrial District is to provide for the establishment of
warehousing and light industrial development. General industrial uses such as storage
and warehousing, manufacturing power generation plants, and wholesale business and
office. establishments are listed permitted uses. Conditional uses include open and
outdoor storage as an accessory use.
P -I, Public -Institutional District
The P-1 District is intended to provide a specific zoning district for facilities directed to
serving the public and specialized government and semi-public uses. It is unique in that
the primary objective of uses within this district is the provision of services, frequently on
a non-profit basis, rather than the sale of goods or services. It is intended that uses
within such a district will be compatible with adjoining development and they will be
located on or in proximity to a collector street or arterial street. The district permitted
uses include government buildings, parks and recreational facilities while schools,
places of worship, hospitals, correctional facilities, nursing homes, cemeteries, and
Comprehensive Plan 2018
City of Oak Park Heights Page 17
LAND USE - PHYSICAL PROFILE
limited retail are conditional. The City has established the P-1 District in the Zoning
Ordinance but has not zoned property to this district.
PUD, Planned Unit Development District
The purpose of the PUD, Planned Unit Development District is to provide for the
integration and coordination of land parcels as well as the combination of varying types
of residential, commercial and industrial uses. The City has a limited number of areas
zoned PUD. Most development is zoned residential or commercial and is applied with a
PUD to allow for mixed use and multiple structures on one parcel.
River Impact District
The River Impact District is established to provide necessary protection to lands which
fall within the designated regional floodplain and Lower St. Croix National Scenic
Riverway area as defined by Minnesota Department of Natural Resources regulations.
This district shall include all lands lying riverward from the Chicago, Milwaukee, St. Paul
and Pacific Railroad right-of-way. Application of district regulations shall be imposed as
an overlay upon currently applied zoning use districts.
ZONING DISTRICT AREA WIDTH SETBACK AND BUILDING REGULATIONS
The specific requirements for each of the zoning districts is found on the following page.
The complete lot area and width, setbacks, building height and other zoning regulations
are found in the General Provisions section of the Zoning Ordinance. A copy of the
Zoning Ordinance is on file at City Hall.
The table, as follows, summarizes all of the established zoning districts along with their
minimum lot area, width, setbacks, lot coverage and other standards. It is intended as a
general reference source_
Com rehensive Plan 201$
- _ City of Oak Park Heights Page 18
LAND USE - PHYSICAL PROFILE
OAK PARK HEIGHTS SUMMARY OF ZONING DISTRICT CLASSIFICATIONS AND
REQUIREMENTS
Comprehensive Plan 2018
City of Oak Park Heights Page 19
Minimum
Setbacks
Principal
Zoning
Minimum
Lot Width
Building
District
District Classification
Lot Size
(interior)
F
S -I
S -C
R
Height
O
Open Space Conservation
5 acres
200 feet
50
30
30
50
35 feet
R-1
Single Famil Residential
10,300 sf
80 feet
30
10
30
30
35 feet
R -1A
Single Family Residential
12,500 sf
85 feet
30
10
30
30
35 feet
RAB
Single Family Residential
15,000 sf
90 feet
30
10
30
30
35 feet
R-1 C
Single Family Residential
20,000 sf
100 feet
30
10
30
30
35 feet
R-2
Low and Medium Density
10,400 sf
90 feet
30
10
30
30
35 feet
Residential
R-3
—7Transitional
Multiple Family Residential
15,000 sf
100 feet
30
20
20
30
35 feet
R-BResidential
Business
15,000 sf
100 feet
30
10
10
30
35 feet
B-1
Neighborhood Business
15,000 sf
100 feet
30
20
20
30
35 feet
B-2
General Business
15,000 sf
100 feet
40
10
20
20
35 feet
B-3
Highway Business and
15,000 sf
100 feet
40
10
20
20
35 feet
Warehousing
B-4
Limited Business
15,000 sf
100 feet
40
10
20
20
35 feet
B -W
Business/Warehousing
30,000 sf
100 feet
50
20
50
20
35 feet
I
Industrial
1 acre
100 feet
50 1
30
30
40
45 feet
P -I
-Public/institutional
varies
---
varies
45 feet
PUD
Planned Unit Development
---
---
___
___
___
___
------
River Impact District
---
---
--_
___
Source:
Ci of Oak Park Heights
F =
Front yard setback as measured from the property
line
S-1=
Side yard setback on interior lots
S -C =
Side yard setback on comer lots
R =
Rear yard setback
Comprehensive Plan 2018
City of Oak Park Heights Page 19
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LAND USE - GOALS AND POLICIES
INTRODUCTION
The value of a Comprehensive Plan for Oak Park Heights is only partially found in the
plans, maps, and data. Although such information is a critical element of any plan, the
changing nature of that information can give a community only a snapshot of its needs
or direction. A more comprehensive review of the community and its direction can be
found through its adopted goals and policies.
The goals and policies do not provide information on the timelines and priorities needed
for development or community improvements. Instead, it provides a series of criteria
which can be used to direct general actions. Furthermore, the policies are not absolute
directions for City staff, Planning Commission, or City Council members. Instead, they
are guides to assist in decision-making and goal achievement. Moreover, the policies
should be considered and utilized collectively. In some cases, a single policy may
define and outline a course of action. More frequently, however, a group of policies will
be applied to a given situation.
The flexibility and adoptability of the goals and policies is particularly useful when
unanticipated development decisions emerge. It complements the maps, ordinances
and City Code which are more static documents. In some instances, policies may not
address a new situation in the community. In this case, the goals and policies should be
updated or modified. This would give the Comprehensive Plan an up-to-date quality
which will withstand the test of time.
For purposes of definition, goals may be described as the ways in which we think about
the community — descriptive statements of the ultimate direction we would want to see
the City proceed. Policies may be described generally as positions the City will take on
a specific issue.
NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Natural resources are of prime importance to the community. In addition to serving as
aesthetic amenities which enhance the quality of life in the area, natural areas often
perform important ecological roles.
These natural features can serve as buffers or banners in determining the extent and
direction of development and growth. Therefore, it is necessary that special
consideration be given to natural features and systems in formulating Oak Park Heights'
Comprehensive Plan. Environmentally sensitive areas include those characterized by
waterbodies, floodplain, steep slopes, vegetation, soil limitations, and wetlands. The
_�' Comprehensive Plan 2018
City of Oak Park Heights Page 23
LAND USE - GOALS AND POLICIES
City has expressed an interest in the preservation and enhancement of these features
within the City limits.
WETLANDS, LAKES AND STREAMS AND GROUND WATER
Goal: Preserving the water resources of the St. Croix River and existing
wetlands and streams is recognized as a high priority in Oak Park Heights.
Policies:
A. Restrict or prohibit develop mentfredevelopment within Oak Park Heights'
drainageways, floodplains, wetlands, and other natural features which perform
important environmental functions in their natural state.
B. Require all development/redevelopment to manage its on-site storm water
generation to ensure no negative impact to downstream flooding or water quality.
C. Require grading and drainage plans as part of any new residential or commercial
developmenttredevelopment. These plans must illustrate proposed drainage
patterns, plans for on-site storm water retention and erosion control.
D. Maintain and update as necessary floodplain, shoreland and wetland regulations
to regulate development within these sensitive areas.
E. Incorporate low impact development (LID) principles and practices into design,
construction and operation of public projects as feasible.
F. Work with residential and commercial developers to incorporate low impact
development practices that protect native vegetation and soils and reduce
impervious surface.
TREES, LANDSCAPING AND STREETSCAPING
Goal: Provide continuing and enhanced streetscapes, landscaping as part of
developmentfredevelopment, and protection and preservation of the
community's vegetative resources.
Policies:
A. Continue to implement and expand the City's comprehensive streetscaping and
landscaping efforts through participation in Tree City USA and development
review.
B. As a high priority in the City, preserve and protect existing stands of mature
trees.
C. Promote programs designed to protect trees from disease.
_ Com rehensive Plan 2018
City of Oak Park Heights Page 24
LAND USE - GOALS AND POLICIES
D. Require all development/redevelopment proposals to indicate the location, type,
and condition of existing vegetation, and preserve existing trees wherever
feasible.
E. Require that development/redevelopment projects within the City plant new trees,
particularly in areas where existing vegetation is removed.
F. Provide City financial support to the ongoing tree protection, streetscape and
landscaping programs.
NATURAL FEATURES
Goal: Ensure preservation and enhancement of slopes and soils in Oak Park
Heights through careful development review and approvals.
Policies:
A. In areas of soils that have limitations for development/redevelopment, perform
soil testing to identify the soil correction measures necessary to insure safe and
quality construction.
B. Require erosion control plans for all site grading to prevent erosion, dust, and soil
sedimentation.
C. Restrict or prohibit development/redevelopment on steep slopes. In instances
where development on steep slopes is permitted, plans must be provided for
grading and erosion control which prevent erosion, dust, and soil sedimentation.
AIR QUALITY AND POLLUTION
Goal: Protection of air quality and ground water and soils, as well as efforts to
control noise and light pollution, are important to the community.
Policies:
A. Incorporate State and Federal pollution regulations into local policy as required.
B. Require a ground water monitoring plan or ground water protection plan as part
of a permit application for businesses that store, use or transport hazardous
materials and for properties formerly used as a waste disposal site or waste
transit facility. Where available, use well head protection plans to assist with this
process.
C. Assure coordination with other adjoining jurisdictions for ground water sensitive
areas, well head protection areas, water use contingency and allocation plans,
and other ground water issues where plans may affect other jurisdictions.
Comprehensive Plan 2018
City of Oak Park Heights Page 25
LAND USE - GOALS AND POLICIES
RECYCLING AND SOLID WASTE REDUCTION
Goal: Encourage recycling programs and solid waste reduction initiatives.
Policies:
A. Recycling programs which conserve natural resources shall be continued and
promoted.
B. Oak Park Heights shall encourage enhanced waste red uctionlseparation
practices to improve solid waste management.
C. Residential and commercial generators of solid waste shall be encouraged to act
voluntarily to evaluate their use of energy and raw materials and to reduce
consumption where technically and economically feasible.
SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT
Goal 1: Create a sustainable community that provides balance between a growing
economy, protection for the environment and social responsibility to
enhance the quality of life while preserving the same for future
generations.
Policies:
A. Promote the use of sustainable design practices during all phases of
development including design, deconstruction, construction, and building
operation and maintenance.
B. Promote national, regional and state sustainable building design programs
including utility -sponsored renewable energy and conservation programs.
Goal 2: Create a livable community where development incorporates sustainable
design elements such as resource and energy conservation and use of
renewable energy.
Policies:
A. Encourage energy and resource conservation strategies to limit the effects of
climate change, including decreased use of fossil fuels and shift to renewable
energy resources.
B. Promote the use of renewable energy, including solar energy, in new residential
and commercial developments.
C. Review the potential for use of renewable energy, including solar energy, in all
new public buildings.
Comprehensive Plan 2018
i_ City of Oak Park Heights Page 26
LAND USE - GOALS AND POLICIES
D. Consider varying setback requirements within PUD's in all residential and
commercial zoning districts as a means of protecting solar access.
E. Implement alternative energy regulations including solar, wind energy,
geothermal and biomass requirements in the Zoning Ordinance.
Goal 3: Protect and enhance air quality and reduce the emission of greenhouse
gases and control of climate change locally and globally.
Policies:
A. Encourage alternative transportation by providing trails and encouraging transit
opportunities. Continue expanding the trail system by implementing the Park and
Trail System Plan.
B. Educate and inform businesses and residents about opportunities and incentives
to increase the utilization of renewable energy sources such as solar, wind,
geothermal, and biomass.
C. Improve the City's environmental performance by setting targets, using
innovative approaches, encouraging employees to conserve resources and
improving on the existing recycling program as an example to residents and
business owners.
D. Support and encourage community efforts in environmental awareness and
education through the use of the City web site, programs, newsletters and the
media.
Goal 4: Reduce waste stream toxicity and amount; minimize generation of
hazardous waste and increase reuse, recycling, composting and
purchasing of environmentally preferred products with minimal or no
packaging.
Policies:
A. Support and encourage community efforts in environmental awareness and
education.
B. Support waste reduction activities including recycling, reuse, and composting
through policies and educational outreach opportunities for citizens and
businesses.
C. Emphasize the importance of directing waste that cannot be reused, recycled, or
composted to facilities that recover some of the energy value in garbage with use
of landfills as the last alternative.
Comprehensive Plan 2018
:,� City of Oak Park Heights Page 27
LAND USE - GOALS AND POLICIES
D. Continue to provide and encourage curbside recycling of reusable waste
materials through educational events, promotional materials and volunteer
efforts.
LAND USE
Land use goals create a vehicle by which the community can determine, organize and
define the character and intensity of development and redevelopment in Oak Park
Heights. The policies will guide proposed land use through the stages of growth and
change planned for the community. Related to land use, the protection of the natural
environment is of major importance to Oak Park Heights and the surrounding area. The
focus for land use in the City will be the continual development infill of residential,
commercial and industrial areas. Redevelopment, especially in commercial areas along
the Highway 36 corridor, will also be a priority in the next 20 years.
GENERAL LAND USE
Goal 1: Provide for responsible and orderly expansion of the City's land area as
requested by property owners and agreed to by the affected jurisdiction.
Policies:
A. The City, in planning for future land use, transportation/community facilities or
utility extensions, may include areas not within its municipal boundaries. This
planning is done in anticipation of demand for services to accommodate future
urban growth.
B. The City shall extend utility service to only those areas that are within the City,
annexed to the City or part of an orderly annexation agreement.
C. The City should consider annexation only if requested by the property owner and
agreed to by the affected jurisdiction.
D. The City shall plan its utility, service and street extensions to accommodate long
term growth and expansion in the community.
E. The City will work to achieve cooperation in annexation requests by discussing
annexation issues with adjacent townships and municipalities.
F. Orderly annexation will be considered in order to identify boundaries and target
years for areas eligible for orderly annexation.
Goal 2: A cohesive land use pattern which ensures compatibility and strong
functional relationships among activities is to be implemented.
Comprehensive Plan 2018
City of Oak Park Heights Page 28
LAND USE - GOALS AND POLICIES
Policies:
A. Prevent over -intensification of land use development, that is, development which
is not accompanied by a sufficient level of supportive services and facilities
(utilities, parking, access, etc.).
B. Examine requested land use changes in relation to adjoining land uses, site
accessibility, utility availability, and consistency with the Oak Park Heights
Comprehensive Plan and policies.
C. Attempt to make transitions between distinctly differing types of land uses in an
orderly fashion which does not create a negative (economic, social or physical)
impact on adjoining developments.
D. Infill development of compatible land uses shall be strongly encouraged.
E. Where practical, conflicting and non -complementary uses shall be eliminated
through removal and relocation.
F. Encourage the development and redevelopment of under-utilized and
substandard property throughout the City.
Goal 3: The preservation, protection and continued use of areas, buildings, and
structures that have historic, aesthetic or community values is of benefit to
Oak Park Heights.
Policies:
A. Where practical, safeguard the heritage of the City by preserving sites and
structures that reflect elements of the City's cultural, political, economic, visual or
architectural history.
B. Foster community identity and civic pride by promoting the preservation and
continued use of historic sites and structures for the education and general
welfare of the people of Oak Park Heights.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION
Goal: The preservation, protection and continued use of areas, buildings,
structures and other objects that have historic, aesthetic or community
values is a benefit to the welfare and education of the City of Oak Park
Heights.
u Comprehensive Plan 2018
City of Oak Park Heights Page 29
LAND USE - GOALS AND POLICIES
Policies:
A. Safeguard the heritage of the City by preserving sites and structures that reflect
elements of the City's cultural, political, economic, visual or architectural history;
evaluate and establish historic districts.
B. Promote the preservation and continued use of historic sites and structures for
the education and general welfare of the people of Oak Park Heights.
C. Foster community identity and civic pride by protecting historical area, structures
or accomplishments of the past.
RESIDENTIAL LAND USE
Goal 1: Provide a variety of housing types, styles and values to meet the needs of
the community and the changing demographics of the City and region
through new development and redevelopment.
Policies:
A. Encourage design and planning innovations in housing units and land
development.
B. Recognize the development of townhouses, condominiums and non-traditional
home types to supplement existing conventional single-family homes, and
apartments, giving due consideration to local market demands.
C. Attempt to provide housing opportunities which attract persons of all ages and
income levels and which allow them the ability to maintain residence within Oak
Park Heights throughout the various stages of their lives.
D. Allow the development of additional owner and renter occupied affordable
housing units on a case-by-case basis to achieve established housing goals.
E. Encourage development of housing options to meet the needs of all segments of
the population, including the disabled, and senior living options through life cycle
housing.
F. Housing units identified as substandard for safe occupancy shall be rehabilitated,
replaced, or developed with an appropriate guided land use, wherever possible.
Goal 2: Maintain and enhance the strong character of Oak Park Heights' single
family residential neighborhoods.
Policies:
A. Promote private reinvestment in the City's single-family housing stock.
B. Pursue the redevelopment of substandard single-family homes when it is judged
not economically feasible to correct the deficiencies.
C. Encourage single family home rehabilitation programs through the City.
Comprehensive Plan 2018
City of Oak Park Heights Page 30
LAND USE - GOALS AND POLICIES
Goal 3: Promote multiple family housing alternatives as an alternative life cycle
housing option.
Policies:
A. Consider the redevelopment of substandard multiple family properties that
display deteriorated building conditions, no site amenities, poor site design, or
incompatible land use patterns.
B. Encourage developers of medium and high-density developments to provide
adequate accessory amenities such as garages, parking, open space,
landscaping, and recreational facilities to ensure a safe, functional, and desirable
living environment.
C. Consider mixed land uses as an altemative land use option in planning and
redevelopment of obsolete commercial, industrial, or residential areas.
D. Avoid concentrations of multiple family dwellings and apartments in the City.
Locate such housing within appropriately designated zoning districts and in
proximity to areas which offer a wide range of existing supportive services,
commercial and recreational facilities.
COMMERCIAL LAND USE
Goal 1: Maintain and improve Oak Park Heights' commercial areas as vital retail
and service locations.
Policies:
A. Encourage communication with local business people to gain an understanding
of the changing needs of the business environment.
B. Promote a full and broad range of office, service, retail, and entertainment uses
within the commercial areas of Oak Park Heights.
C. Attract new businesses to Oak Park Heights that will contribute to the customer
attraction and business interchange of the local commercial areas.
D. Promote the redevelopment and expansion of existing businesses within the City
to obtain a higher level of sales and business attraction.
Goal 2. Promote continued development, investment and enhancements in the
commercial areas.
Com rel ive Plan 2018
City of Oak Park Heights Page 31
LAND USE - GOALS AND POLICIES
Policies:
A. Promote a mixed-use environment within the commercial areas consisting of
retail, office, and service land uses.
B. Encourage a combination of public and private investment in the commercial
areas for public improvements and building redevelopment.
C. Address parking issues and review supply and demand, signage and education
programs for better parking -utilization.
D. Update architectural design guidelines as necessary to guide the commercial
areas' development and redevelopment.
E. Substandard residential and commercial properties shall be rehabilitated,
replaced or redeveloped in conformance with the land use plan.
Goal 3: Encourage continued development and redevelopment activities along the
City's highway corridors.
Policies:
A. Encourage private and continued City investment in the Highway 36 corridor.
B. Encourage investment in rehabilitation and redevelopment of substandard
properties along the highway corridors.
C. Ensure that all service and commercial uses are adequately screened or buffered
from any adjacent residential development.
D. Commercial and service areas should provide safe and convenient pedestrian
movement, including access for persons with disabilities.
BUSINESS/WAREHOUSE/INDUSTRIAL LAND USE
Goal 1: Retain Oak Park Heights' existing businesstwarehouse and industrial land
uses to ensure a diverse tax base and local employment opportunities.
Policies:
A. The City will continue its efforts in retaining and attracting new businesses for
new development and redevelopment.
B. The City will work with Xcel Energy on issues related to the Allan S. King Power
Plant, transmission lines and substations within Oak Park Heights.
Goal 2: Maintain a high standard of businesstwarehouse and industrial
development including appearance of sites, buildings and outside storage
areas.
Comprehensive Plan 2018
f City of Oak Park Heights Page 32
;,
LAND USE - GOALS AND POLICIES
Policies:
A. Encourage site upkeep and maintenance to promote a positive business)
warehouse and industrial and commercial image for Oak Park Heights.
B. Promote high quality businesslwarehouse and industrial construction to ensure
building durability and an aesthetically attractive appearance.
C. Existing and new business/warehouse and industrial development shall not
cause pollutants or contaminants to be emitted into the surrounding environment
(including air, soils, ground water, drainageways, sanitary sewer and storm
sewer) in excess of state and federal regulations.
INSTITUTIONAL LAND USE
Goal 1. Cooperate with existing and expanding institutional facilities to ensure
compatibility and a high level of design.
Policies:
A. Transitions between differing types of land uses must be done in an orderly
fashion while minimizing impacts on adjoining development.
B. All institutional development proposals must be analyzed to determine the most
appropriate land uses within a neighborhood and the community as a whole.
C. Adequately screen, landscape and buffer institutional facilities to minimize the
impact on surrounding uses and enhance the neighborhood and community in
which they are located.
Com rehensive Plan 2018
City of Oak Park Heights Page 33
LAND USE - LAND USE PLAN
INTRODUCTION
Based upon the foundation established by the Physical Profile and the Goals and
Policies, this section provides the framework to guide community growth and
improvements. The Land Use Plan is a narrative and graphic description that provides
the background and rationale for land use designations as represented on the Proposed
Land Use Map. The plan has an educational and decision-making function, helping to
improve the general understanding of how physical development in the City of Oak Park
Heights should take place. Although the emphasis of this section is on land
development, other areas such as transportation, community service and facility needs
are also addressed.
The Land Use Plan is divided into two main categories. The first section describes the
basis for Oak Park Heights' community plan, including population projections as well as
how the natural features of the area will be protected. The second section describes
general land use plan elements, including a discussion of the Proposed Land Use Map
and review of residential, commercial, industrial, and institutional development.
BASIS OF THE COMMUNITY PLAN
The major planning objective of Oak Park Heights is to establish and maintain attractive,
high quality living and working environments for community residents. In providing for
these environments, the City recognizes the necessity of providing utilities and services
that are demanded with urban development. Through the comprehensive planning
process, the City has the ability to direct and focus development in a pattern that
maximizes the utilization of existing utilities and services. This type of land use
management assists the community in regulating and budgeting for investment in future
public utilities, streets, and service needs.
With limited vacant land, it is likely that the City will be almost completely developed by
2025. Small parcels of residential property scattered throughout the community will be
infilled with single family and townhome development. Commercial areas along
Highways 36 and 15, west of Oakgreen Avenue, will also be completely filled in.
Redevelopment activities will likely focus on commercial areas east of Oakgreen along
the Highway 36 corridor. Based upon this premise, the focus of the land use,
transportation, community facilities/administrative sections of this Comprehensive Plan
will be on redevelopment, infill and maintenance of the community.
Comprehensive Plan 2018
City of Oak Park Heights Page 35
� 'a
LAND USE -LAND USE PLAN
PROJECTED GROWTH
Population and Households
The City of Oak Park Heights has had steady population growth since 1980. The
expanding residential and commercial sectors as well as the attractiveness of the
community in its location in the St. Croix River Valley has resulted in a steady
population growth. Household and population growth of the community from 1980 to
2015 is found in the following table.
OAK PARK HEIGHTS HOUSEHOLD AND POPULATION GROWTH
1980 1990
2,000
2010
2015
Population 2,591 3,486
3,957
4,445
4,706
Households 955 1,322
1,528
1,911
2,178
Household Size 2.71 2.63
2.25
2.05
1.93
Source: U.S. Census, Metropolitan Council
The numbers above reflect the national and state trends of smaller household size.
With limited residential available, the expected population will continue to grow but at a
much slower rate.
Population, Household and Employment Projections
The Metropolitan Council, in its Thrive MSP 2040 Plan, has projected population,
household and employment forecasts. These forecasts are accepted by the City as the
basis for growth through 2040, with the exception of the employment numbers, which
the City projects will be less than what is provided by the Metropolitan Council.
OAK PARK HEIGHTS POPULATION, HOUSEHOLDS AND
EMPLOYMENT PROJECTIONS
2010
Census 2020 2030
2040
Population 4,445 4,880 5,300
5,700
Households 1,911 2,200 2,420
2,600—
,600Em
Employment
to ment 4,358 1 5,900 6,800
7,500
Source: U.S. Census, Metropolitan Council
As indicated above, the Metropolitan Council projects that the population of the City will
exceed 5,000 persons between 2020 and 2030. With recent senior housing
developments, Oak Park Heights projects that the City will reach 5,000 persons before
Com rehensive Plan 2018
City of Oak Park Heights Page 36
LAND USE -LAND USE PLAN
2020. Once the City nears 5,500 to 5,700 people, the population will likely level off.
With no additional residential land available, it is expected the City's population will
likely stabilize between 5,500 and 5,700 people. The household projections show a
steady increase to 2,600 by the year 2040. The increase in households versus the
stable population levels is due to the ongoing trend of lower household size. The City
will experience limited infill development which will increase the number of households
but likely not to the extent projected by the Metropolitan Council.
Employment numbers are also projected to increase to a total of 7,500 by 2030. This
again may be optimistic with the limited land available for future commercial
development.
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AND SUSTAINABILITY
Environment
A variety of benefits are associated with environmental protection in Oak Park Heights.
Environmentally sensitive development will create a more aesthetic living and working
environment and prevent future public investment needed for clean up or reclamation.
The purpose of the City's environmental regulations and the Zoning Ordinance is to
protect the public health, safety, and welfare of the community. The City has adopted
floodplain and wetland and stormwater regulations to provide the levels of protection to
preserve natural resources.
Environmental awareness and protection should generally address the following in Oak
Park Heights:
1. Implement and update, as necessary, environmental regulations such as
floodplain, wetland, stormwater, tree preservation regulations for the protection of
rivers, natural features, lakes, wetlands, and trees.
2. Direct development throughout the City that is compatible with environmentally
sensitive areas.
3. Address stormwater issues in all areas of the City through development and
appropriate facilities to hold and treat runoff. Utilize existing wetlands and low
areas to the extent possible for stormwater retention.
_ Comprehensive Plan 2018
f-. City of Oak Park Heights Page 37
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LAND USE -LAND USE PLAN
4. Work with Washington County and the Watershed Districts with ongoing
stormwater projects and recycling programs.
5. Utilize Best Management Practices for addressing stormwater runoff and
retention.
6. Encourage alternative energy sources such as solar and wind energy in
appropriate areas of the City.
7. Extend utilities, as necessary, with annexation to address environmental issues
associated with development outside of the City boundaries.
Sustainability
The City of Oak Park Heights has recognized the importance of the conservation and
preservation of water, air, energy and other natural resources in order to achieve a
more sustainable community. It is recognized that there are four areas in which the City
can preserve natural resources and ensure that development recognizes the value of
environmental protection. An effective implementation program includes the work of
commissions, ordinance updates, permitting and other regulatory mechanisms; design
guidelines and performance standards; public education and involvement; and
intergovernmental cooperation.
The following implementation items are to be pursed:
Implement sustainable development practices into the design, construction and
operation of City facilities as feasible.
2. Work with developers to apply sustainable building practices in private sector
development and redevelopment. Utilize utility -sponsored renewable energy and
conservation programs where possible in development projects.
3. Continue to expand and promote the City sidewalk and trail system to encourage
an alternate form of transportation not dependent upon motorized vehicle use.
4. Work with the Metropolitan Council on expanding the transit service to Oak Park
Heights and the St Croix Valley area.
5. Work on the development of an environmental awareness program that is
designed to educate and inform residents and developers on energy efficiency
and utilization of renewable energy sources.
Iry�Com rehensive Plan 2018
F- Y
City of Oak Park Heights Page 38
LAND USE -LAND USE PLAN
6. Develop a City policy on conservation of energy, to be used at all City facilities
and by all employees that can be used as a model for the rest of the community.
7. Continue developing programs for recycling, reuse and composting as well as
the education of citizens and businesses on waste reduction.
8. Work with the contracted waste hauler on alternatives to reducing the amount of
material that will be land filled.
Solar Access Protection and Alternative Energy Systems
Ensuring that all properties have equal access to sunlight is a priority not only for
potential solar energy systems, but for the protection of property and aesthetic values
as well. Solar access protection is provided for by the uniform implementation of lot and
building performance standards adopted as part of the Oak Park Heights Zoning
Ordinance. Requirements such as maximum building height and yard setback
standards have been implemented for creating separation between structures and
allowing equal sunlight access such that a property is not in the shadow of an adjacent
building. Additionally, the City adopted alternative energy system regulations in 2010 to
promote and encourage ground source heat pump, wind and solar energy systems.
The map on the following page indicates the gross solar potential for Oak Park Heights
in watts per year. Note that the greatest solar potential is in those commercial area that
have less tree cover.
ANNEXATION
The City's policy toward annexation is consistent with the 2008 Comprehensive Plan. It
is recognized, just as it was in 2008, that the City will not aggressively pursue areas of
annexation from the Townships or because of detachment/annexation from one of the
adjoining cities.
As part of the planning process, the City has identified one area that potentially could
become part of the City in the next 20 years. The property is identified in the Future
Annexation Plan, found on a following page. The City would consider this area for
annexation if petitioned by the property owners and if the affected jurisdiction was
willing to detach the property. The area is at the intersection of Highway 36 and
Manning Avenue. The property is recognized as having value for commercial
development if utility and street infrastructure are extended by Oak Park Heights but
paid for by the developers.
�= Cornprehensive Plan 2018
-} City of Oak Park Heights Page 39
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LAND USE - LAND USE PLAN
ALLEN S. KING PLANT
The Xcel Energy - Allen S. King Plant is a 511 mega -watt coal-fired facility that was
constructed in 1968 along the St. Croix River on approximately 60 acres. The King Plant
underwent a major retrofit in 2004 to reduce emissions. However, like many power
plant facilities, the repair and maintenance become expensive for Xcel Energy
compared to alternative investment in new technology and facilities to generate the
same power at a lesser cost.
This reality is also likely true for the King Plant as coal facilities are beginning to fall
behind other opportunities for generating the same energy capacity. Representative of
this is Xcel Energy's installation of over 1,200 Megawatts (three times the capacity of
the King Plant) of wind facilities in the upper mid -west alone and over 3,330 megawatts
nationwide; the advancement of solar energy with the rapid deployment of "solar
gardens" around the State; and finally, a conversion of coal facilities to natural gas such
as the Xcel's Sherco facility in Becker, Minnesota.
Therefore, the City expects that the King Plant will close if the shift away from coal as
an energy source continues. The timing of this closure may depend on a number of
factors but is reasonable to predict that in the next twenty years the King Plant will be
decommissioned. This closure would be a complex decision of both Xcel Energy and
the Public Utility Commission as rates and energy demand will be closely monitored to
ensure the utility grid remains stable.
Why is this important to the City?
Beyond the environmental discussions or base -load capacity elements, it is important to
understand that when this power plant was originally constructed in Oak Park Heights,
there was a commitment to the local community from Xcel Energy that there would be a
significant tax benefit to its residents in exchange for having this facility in the
community. While there have been annual fluctuations, this tax benefit remains.
Currently, the City receives 33 percent of its annual property tax revenue from the King
Plant or approximately 1.7 million dollars.
If the King Plant closes and no longer remains a viable source of tax revenue, the City
will have a significant gap in its ability to fund municipal services. Accordingly, the City,
like many other communities that host power plants (being coal, nuclear or natural gas)
must begin to contemplate about how it would respond when such closure happens.
Comprehensive Plan 2018
City of Oak Park Heights Page 41
LAND USE -LAND USE PLAN
More specifically, what would happen to the Allen S. King Plant site? How or could the
budget gap be addressed without a passage of such costs to others? Will the site have
ongoing environmental issues?
1. At this time there are no clear answers to these questions, no plans or reuse
contemplated for the current site along the St. Croix River, or how such a closure
would unfold.
2. There are significant questions that the City and greater community must begin
to consider as this closure will likely have a broad impact in the St. Croix River
Valley.
I The City plans to engage with Xcel Energy, community members, and State and
local government partners to begin to explore the issues and opportunities that a
potential closure of the King Plant will present.
r"
Comprehensive Plan 2018
City of Oak Park Heights Page 42
0
LAND USE -LAND USE PLAN
LAND USE COMPATIBILITY
Land use compatibility concerns exist, primarily in the older sections of the community,
within the Village area, in the area near the St. Croix Mall, and along 58th Street. High
density residential or commercial development adjacent to single family neighborhoods
can intensify unwanted activity in the area and impose impacts on parking, traffic and
noise that may be uncharacteristic of single family neighborhoods.
To respond to these land use compatibility concerns, the Comprehensive Plan
establishes a policy of screening, landscaping and buffering commercial establishments
near or within residential areas to minimize the impact on surrounding uses and
enhance the neighborhood and community. The City, through its Comprehensive Plan,
may determine that certain businesses should be relocated out of a neighborhood, or a
collection of homes no longer functions as a neighborhood and the area would be better
suited for higher intensity uses. Such redevelopment efforts are costly and, in most
cases, may need to be accomplished with the assistance of the City or its Economic
Development Authority. Additionally, the Comprehensive Plan calls for the proper
transition between high and low density residential development. The City, through its
plan and Zoning Ordinance, shall transition residential development so as not to create
negative living environments. Concentration of one type of housing style or density can
also create issues for the proper development of neighborhoods.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION
The City has identified two sites deemed historic within the physical profile section of
the Land Use Plan. These sites, Phil's Tara Hideaway and the Stillwater Overlook have
been recognized as historic in the community. The City will continue to work with the
Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnIDOT) on preservation and maintenance of
the overlook on Lookout Trail North. Phil's Tara Hideaway is in use today as a
restaurant and bar. The City will work with the property owners to ensure that the
original log cabin look is preserved.
Due to the limited number of historic structures and sites, the City does not anticipate
the need for a preservation ordinance or establishment of a historic preservation
commission.
Com_ rehensive Plan 2018
City of Oak Park Heights Page 45
LAND USE -LAND USE PLAN
HOUSING
Residential
The Policy Plan promotes the development of a diversified housing stock which is
affordable to a wide range of incomes. The plan also establishes guidelines to protect
residential neighborhoods from encroachment or intrusion of incompatible, higher
intensity uses through the use of buffers and appropriate land use transitions.
For the most part, Oak Park Heights has followed a traditional residential growth pattern
with growth emanating outward from the St. Croix River and Highway 36. As previously
indicated, the community is almost completely built out in terms of residential
development. The addition of housing units will be through small infill projects.
The table on the following page indicates the total housing units from 1990 to 2016.
The number of single family homes has increased from 1990 and 2016, but as a
percentage of the total numbers of units, it has decreased from 47.3 percent to 34.4
percent in 2016. The number of multiple family units has increased significantly, and as
a percentage of the total housing units has gone from 38.2 percent to 48.3 percent.
This rise in multiple family units has resulted from the development of Boutwells
Landing and Oak Park Senior Living that has provided needed housing in the area at all
price ranges.
OAK PARK HEIGHTS TOTAL HOUSING UNITS
4AM Comprehensive Plan 2018
City of Oak Park Heights Page 47
_�' '45
1990
Percent
2000
Percent
2010
1 Percent
2016
Percent
of Total
of Total
of Total
of Total
Single Family
663
47.3
790
49.8
805
38.1
802
34.4
Detached
Townhomes Single
64
4.5
134
8.5
2-6-47--12
—5
268
11.5
Family Detached
Duplex, Triplex, Quad
126
9.0
138
8.7
134
6.3
134
5.8
Multiple Family (5 units
535
38.2
525
33.0
912
43.1
1,124
48.3
or more
Other
10
1.0
Total -
1,3981100%
1,587
100%
2,115
100%
2,328
100%
Source: U.S. Census, Metropolitan Council
4AM Comprehensive Plan 2018
City of Oak Park Heights Page 47
_�' '45
LAND USE -LAND USE PLAN
The table as follows indicates the owner occupied, renter occupied and vacant housing.
In 1990, the percent of owner occupied housing was 59.2 percent versus 35.3 percent
rental occupied. With the significant increase in senior rental housing, the owner -
occupied housing declined to 44.6 percent and the renter occupied housing increased
to 46.0 percent of the total. The amount of vacant housing has remained relatively
consistent over the past 25 years.
The table below indicates the change in median housing value and median gross rent
from 1990 to 2015.
OAK PARK HEIGHTS MEDIAN HOUSING VALUE AND MEDIAN GROSS
RENT
1990 2000 2010 1 2015
Median Housing Value $85,300$148,400 $226,900 $201,700
Median Gross Rent $482 $614 $950 $1,398
Source: U.S. Census, Metropolitan Council
As follows, please find a 2017 inventory of multiple family, condominium, townhouse
and duplex units in Oak Park Heights.
Com rehensive Plan 2018
f.. City of Oak Park Heights Page 48
LAND USE -LAND USE PLAN
Livable Communities
In 1996, the City adopted a Livable Communities Action Plan in conformance with the
Metropolitan Livable Communities Act to address housing issues. The housing plan
encourages the development and maintenance of affordable and life cycle housing in
the City of Oak Park Heights. Additionally, the plan establishes housing goals and
policies that are to be implemented by specific programs, initiatives, and actions. Those
initiatives are directed specifically to provisions of additional affordable units, housing
demand and housing maintenance/rehabilitation. The issues of housing demand and
maintenance are addressed below.
Housing cost burden from 1990 to 2015, as reflected by numbers of households
spending more than 30 percent of income on housing, is reflected below for
homeowners and renters. As of 2015, there were eight publicly subsidized units in Oak
Park Heights.
Comprehensive Plan 2018
City of Oak Park Heights Page 49
LAND USE -LAND USE PLAN
OAK PARK HEIGHTS HOUSING
COST BURDEN
30 percent or
below
1990
2000
2010
2015
Homeowners Spending
143
206
428
208
30 Percent or more on
Housing Households
Renters Spending 30
170
197
468
689
percent of more on
Housing Households
Source: U.S. Census, Metropolitan Council
The Average Median Income (AMI) is the midpoint of a regions income. Half of
households in a region earn more than the median and half earn less than the median.
The Metropolitan Council uses these income levels as a way to assess affordability.
For example, a housing unit is affordable if a household income is at or below 80
percent of AMI, then the persons of the household can live there without spending more
than 30 percent of their income on housing costs. The table below indicates the current
affordability levels.
OAK PARK HEIGHTS HOUSING UNITS AFFORDABLE TO HOUSEHOLDS WITH
INCOME AT OR BELOW AREA MEDIAN INCOME AMI
30 percent or
below
31 percent to 50
percent
51 percent
to 80 percent
Oak Park Heights
95
477
836
Source: Metropolitan Council
The Metropolitan Council has forecasted affordable housing needs for all cities and
townships within the Twin Cities Metropolitan Area for the period from 2021 to 2030.
The housing plan element of the local comprehensive plan is required to reflect the
allocated portion of the forecasted demand for affordable housing. Oak Park Heights'
share of this allocation is 74 affordable housing units. The table below indicates the
affordable housing need allocation at or below 30 percent Area Median Income (AMI),
from 31 percent to 50 percent AMI, and from 51 percent to 80 percent AMI.
The City of Oak Park Heights remains committed to reaching this initiative. With the
continued development of affordable senior housing, it is expected that this goal will be
reached.
Comprehensive Plan 2018
City of Oak Park Heights Page 50
LAND USE -LAND USE PLAN
OAK PARK HEIGHTS AFFORDABLE
HOUSING NEED ALLOCATION
At or Below 30 Percent AMI 33
From 31 Percent to 50 Percent AMI 11
From 51 Percent to 80 Percent AMI 30
Total Units 74
Note: AMI = Area Median Income
Source: Metropolitan Council
Housing Demand
With ongoing commercial development and job growth in the St. Croix Valley, the
demand for housing will remain strong. This demand will promote the infill development
and possible redevelopment expected in the community. Much of the existing housing
stock in Oak Park Heights is assessed at less than the market value of new housing in
the area. As a result, the community provides a wide range of rental and ownership
options for affordable housing. Newer residential construction over the past decade has
been moderate to higher value housing resulting in a community with a wide range of
housing options.
The City of Oak Park Heights has a role in development of a housing program for the
community. The City's basic roles of providing adequate/appropriately zoned land and
services is critical. The City must also be supportive of the Washington County Housing
and Redevelopment Authority (HRA) and its housing programs and funding sources to
bring about new construction, redevelopment, and rehabilitation where it will do the
most good to improve existing neighborhoods. Redevelopment of substandard
properties, creation of lots for affordable housing or working with local financial
institutions on programs for first time homebuyers are continuing programs for the
Washington County HRA with the City's support.
Housing Maintenance/Rehabilitation
Generally, Oak Park Height's housing stock appears to be in good condition, but there
are areas in the community where some homes show signs of deterioration.
Additionally, problems have been noted with regard to unsightly appearance and
outdoor storage on some residential lots in the City. To insure quality neighborhoods
and to maintain property values, the City continues to take steps to improve residential
areas exhibiting signs of neglect. The City should consider the formulation and
enforcement of housing and ground maintenance regulations with specific attention to
:..�: Comprehensive Plan 2018
4 ._� City of Oak Park Heights Page 51
LAND USE -LAND USE PLAN
building conditions, outdoor storage, and accessory uses. Effective enforcement of
these regulations is necessary and an ongoing responsibility of the City.
The community has been and continues to be supportive of rehabilitation programs for
existing dwelling units. Rehabilitation programs have been available through the
Washington County HRA. The City should continue to promote these programs,
consider establishing a local revolving fund for rehabilitation loans emphasizing low
interest loans to qualifying households, and to continue enforcement of existing codes
and regulations related to home and site maintenance and upkeep.
PROPOSED LAND USE MAP
The City of Oak Park Heights is designated as a "Suburban" in the Thrive MSP 2040
regional planning document adopted by the Metropolitan Council in 2014. Under that
classification, the overall density expectation is five units per acre. Previously, the City
had been designated as a "Developing Community" as part of the 2008 Comprehensive
Plan Update.
The Proposed Land Use Map on the following page illustrates the 2040 land use for
areas within the current boundaries of the City. The map does not vary significantly
from the Existing Land Use Map in that the City is almost completely developed. A
detailed discussion of the neighborhoods and commercial areas of the community is
found in detail within the Neighborhood Planning Districts section of this plan.
PROJECTED LAND USE ACREAGE AND RESIDENTIAL DENSITY
Based upon the Proposed Land Use Map, the City has calculated the projected acreage
of land use from 2017 to 2040 in five-year increments. The existing vacant,
undeveloped land area in the City as of 2017 is 56 acres. Most of the projected
development is expected for commercial, highway business, low density residential,
medium density residential, and high density residential land uses. It is projected that
this development will occur prior to 2025. The table on the following page provides the
projected land use by category.
As of 2017, there were 265 acres of low density residential, 62 acres of medium density
residential, and 80 acres of high density residential land use. These acreages include
only the land area devoted strictly to that use. All of the areas of waterbodies, wetlands,
parks and open space, right-of-way, and other undeveloped land has been removed
from these totals.
r Comahensive Plan 2018
City of Oak Park Heights Page 52
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LAND USE -LAND USE PLAN
The resulting density in 2017 for each of these land use is as follows: the low density
residential density is 1-3 units per acre; the medium density residential density is 4-8
units per acre; and the high density residential density is 8-12 units per acre.
LAND USE TABLE IN FIVE YEAR STAGES
Existing
Acrea e Proposed Acreage Change
2017-
ategory 2017 2020 1 2025 1 2030 1 2035 2040 2040
Low Density 1-3 units/acre)
265
269
272
272
272
272
7
Medium Density 4-8 units/acre)
62
62
67
67
67
67
5
High Density 8-12 units/acre)
80
80
85
85
85
85
5
Commercial and Industrial:
Commercial
212
223
231
231
231
231
19
Highway Business
74
83
91
91
91
91
17
Industrial
170
170
170
170
170
170
0
Other Land Uses:
School Facilities
128
128
128
128
128
128
0
Quasi-Public/Utility
11
11
11
11
11
11
0
Government
192
192
192
192
192
192
0
Park Facilities/Open Space
140
140
140
140
140
140
0
Water
133
133
133
133 1
133
133
0
Vacant
56
32
3
3
3
3
53
Right of Way
3491
349
349
� 349
349
349
0
TOTAL LAND I WATER AREA
1,8721
1,872
1,872
1,872
1,872
1,872
0
Source: The Planning Company,
Inc.
w�
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im- ML Comprehensive Plan 2018
City of Oak Park Heights Page 54
IMPLEMENTATION
.r
r
Com rehensive Plan 2018
M City of Oak Park Heights Page 55
TRANSPORTATION - INTRODUCTION
INTRODUCTION
The Transportation Plan is based on a total transportation system and how it relates to
and serves the land use patterns of the community. The transportation system
encompasses several users such as automobiles, pedestrians, bicycles, mass transit and
trucks.
The transportation system serves to tie together, and in some cases separate, the various
land use activities in the community. The Transportation Plan will present the basis for
programming and planning the extension of the community transportation system and
undeveloped areas of the City and surrounding areas.
The effect of growth and expansion of the community on the existing roadway systems,
especially those limited by existing rail, highway, or river crossings, is also part of the
Transportation Plan. Development of all alternative or additional routes in existing and
developing areas will also serve to lessen the impacts on the existing systems.
An integral part of the Transportation Plan will be the Comprehensive Park and Trail
System Plan. The plan was last updated in 2008. The Comprehensive Plan includes a
section entitled Park and Trail Plan that will update the 2008 plan.
Com rehensive Plan 2018
+ City of Oak Park Heights Page 96
V.
TRANSPORTATION - PHYSICAL PROFILE
ROADWAY AND HIGHWAY NETWORK
The City of Oak Park Heights is connected to and contains a number of transportation
modes, all of which contribute to the movement of goods and people throughout the City
and region. The significance of these existing and developing networks in terms of
economic, social and recreational considerations makes them a central concern for
comprehensive planning. The map on the following page indicates the existing network
of Township, County, and State highways as they relate to the City of Oak Park Heights.
FUNCTIONAL CLASSIFICATION
The functional classification system for the City's streets and highways is based on the
usage of the roadways. The map on a following page indicates the existing functional
classification of the various roadways within the City. A description of the functional
classification system and identification of the roadways under each of the categories is
as follows. The Transportation Plan Map, found in a later section of this chapter, identifies
the future functional classification of roadways.
Principal Arterials
Principal arterials include all interstate freeways and other roadways which connect the
region with other areas in the state and other states. The emphasis of a principal arterial
is on mobility as opposed to local access. They connect with other principal arterials and
select minor arterials and collectors. Spacing of principal arterials will vary from two to
three miles in a fully developed area. The principal arterial in the City is Highway 36,
which currently has four lanes for traffic flow in each direction with signalized left-hand
tum lanes at all intersections through the community. Highway 36 is connected to State
Highway 64 in Wisconsin via the St. Croix River Crossing that opened in August of 2017.
Minor Arterials
Minor arterials connect the urban service area to cities and towns inside and outside the
region. They also provide supplementary connections between metro cities and regional
business concentrations. The emphasis of minor arterials is on mobility as opposed to
access in the urban areas. Minor arterials should connect to principal arterials, other
minor arterials, and collectors. The spacing of minor arterials in the metro centers and
regional business concentrations will vary from one-fourth to three-fourths mile. The
Functional Classification map on a following page shows the minor arterials in the City.
Comkrehensiye Plan 2018
rl ,F City of Oak Park Heights Page 97
F�
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TRANSPORTATION - PHYSICAL PROFILE
Collectors
The collector system provides connection between neighborhoods and from
neighborhoods to business concentrations. Mobility and land access are equally
important but direct land use should predominantly be to development concentrations.
Collectors typically serve short trips of one to four miles. Spacing in the metro centers
and regional business concentrations may vary between one-eighth to one-half mile.
Collectors are divided into two categories: major and minor. The Functional
Classification map on a following page shows the major and minor collectors in the City.
Local Streets
All other roadways that do not fall into the functional classifications discussed above are
designated as local roadways. These streets are primarily designed to provide property
access.
TRAFFIC VOLUMES
The growth of the population within the St. Croix Valley and the opening of the St. Croix
River crossing in Oak Park Heights is indicated in the traffic volumes map on the following
page. Average daily traffic (ADT) volumes for the years 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015 and
2016 are shown. On the major roadways, the ADT volumes have been increasing. With
the opening of the St. Croix River Crossing traffic volumes are expected to increase along
the Highway 36 corridor. The 2016 volume reflects a range of 26,500 ADT to 38,000 ADT
on the highway corridor through the City. The projected 2030 traffic volume on Highway
36 is expected to reach 55,000 ADT in that area between Oakgreen and Osgood
Avenues.
IMPROVEMENT PLANS — COUNTY
The Washington County Highway Department has developed a Five -Year Transportation
Capital Improvement Plan for the years 2017 and 2021. One Washington County
roadway, CSAH 24 (Osgood Avenue) is programmed for intersection, safety, capacity,
and pedestrian/bicycle improvements in 2018. Although not in Oak Park Heights,
Washington County has programed in 2021 the Highway 36 and CSAH 15 (Manning
Avenue interchange study to provide an overpass at this location.
Comprehensive Plan 2018
City of Oak Park Heights Page 100
TRANSPORTATION - PHYSICAL PROFILE
IMPROVEMENT PLANS — STATE
With the completion of the St. Croix River Crossing and the Highway 36 improvements in
2017, there are no other planned State projects in or near Oak Park Heights included
within the Long -Range Highway Capital Projects 2015-2024 of the 2040 Transportation
Policy Plan.
The Highway 36 intersections at Norell Avenue and the south west frontage road access
at Osgood Avenues will need to be improved and made safer in the very near future. With
increasing traffic levels, the intersections will become even more substandard and
dangerous. The City sees this as a transportation priority for the community.
STREET RECONSTRUCTIONIMAINTENANCE PROGRAM
Since 1983, the City has planned and accomplished many sections of street
reconstruction. In 2014, the City developed a street reconstruction plan through 2036 as
represented in the map on the following page. Additionally, the City has done budget
planning to ensure adequate funds are reserved to accomplish the plan.
The City has also developed a maintenance plan for the ongoing mill and overlay of
streets. As with the reconstruction project, budget planning has been done to provide
funding for the maintenance program.
RAIL FACILITIES
Oak Park Heights contains one railroad line, which is utilized by Union Pacific. This line
serves the Allen S. King Power Plant. North of Oak Park Heights, this line turns into the
Minnesota Transportation Museum Line, which previously was utilized by the Minnesota
Zephyr and offered short trip dining rides along the St. Croix River.
There was a rail -water intermodal facility at the Allen S. King Plant. Intermodal facilities
function as a transfer point between road to ports or rail terminals. This facility was used
for coal deliveries to the power plant but was removed as part of the St Croix River
Crossing project.
There are no light rail corridors identified in the 2040 Transportation Policy Plan that would
access Oak Park Heights and the immediate area.
—_ Comprehensive Plan 2018
City of Oak Park Heights Page 102
t
TRANSPORTATION - PHYSICAL PROFILE
AIRPORTS 1 AIR SPACE
Oak Park Heights lies proximate to a number of airport facilities. Minneapolis/St. Paul
International Airport serves as the region's major airport by providing residents with
access to national and international markets. Three smaller airports and runways are
located throughout the region. The St. Paul Downtown Airport (Holman Field) is a major
corporate flight facility in the east metro area. The Lake Elmo Airport is owned and
operated by the Metropolitan Airports Commission (MAC), and the Forest Lake Airport is
a municipal airport. These three facilities relieve the major airport by accommodating
corporate and small aircraft as well as the recreational air transportation needs of area
residents. The City is not within the airport influence area of any of these airports.
The City of Oak Park Heights has taken the necessary steps to protect navigable air
space. All municipalities must protect air space from potential electric interference and
obstacles to air navigation. The Zoning Ordinance limits heights of structures within the
City to less than 45 feet.
TRANSIT SERVICE
Oak Park Heights is served by Metro Transit. As shown on the following map, Metro
Transit provides an express route (294) that serves Downtown St. Paul, Maplewood, 3M,
Oakdale, Imation, Lake Elmo, Stillwater, and Oak Park Heights. The bus runs at rush
hours during the weekdays from 5:30 AM to 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM with a
frequency of less than 30 minutes between trips. The route has stops in Oak Park Heights
on Osgood Avenue and County Road 15. There is one park and ride location in the area
at the St. Croix Valley Recreation Center which is located in Stillwater on Market Drive,
between Orleans Street and Curve Crest Boulevard.
Washington County Transit Link Service is a dial up service which is available within Oak
Park Heights. The service is provided by the Metropolitan Council and is available
Monday through Friday between 6:00 AM and 7:00 PM. The City is also served by Metro
Mobility/ADA service which provides rides for those persons needing additional
assistance. Riders must be certified in advance to qualify for ADA service. The service
is available from 5:15 AM to 6:45 PM Monday through Friday and 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Saturday and Sunday.
. Comprehensive Plan 2018
, ' City of Oak Park Heights Page 104
m
TRANSPORTATION - GOALS AND POLICIES
INTRODUCTION
Transportation systems are comprised of various modes which respond to the access
needs of the community. All of the transportation modes must be considered in the
planning process to ensure a balanced operation as well as a system that responds to all
of its users. Factors affecting transportation are the placement of land uses and activities
which generate demand on the system. The following goals and policies are provided for
transportation planning and development.
GENERAL GOALS AND POLICIES
Goal 1: Approach transportation in a comprehensive manner, giving attention to all
modes while providing safe and convenient movement of all persons and
vehicles.
Policies:
A. Consider all modes of transportation and related facilities as a system to be
coordinated and related on a comprehensive basis.
B. Plan transportation facilities to function in a manner compatible with adjacent land
use.
C. Consider the mobility needs of all persons in the planning and development of the
transportation system.
Goal 2: Coordinate transportation planning and implementation with state, county,
and other local jurisdictions.
Policies:
A. Work with Washington County and the Minnesota Department of Transportation
(Mn/DOT) and the Metropolitan Council to discuss the ways and means by which
their long-term transportation planning goals can be met to satisfy both regional
and local needs.
B. Work with Mn/DOT on issues related to Highway 36 and Highway 95 and
Washington County related to the county roadway system on continuing roadway
improvements and maintenance; intersections and frontage roads; bicycle and
pedestrian access; lighting; signage; landscaping; and other issues concerning the
City.
C. Monitor the projected increase in traffic volumes on the Highway 36 corridor and
work with Mn/Dot on traffic flow and intersection improvements.
Comprehensive Plan 2018
�� City of Oak Park Heights Page 106
T]kAN SPORTATION PLAN
D. Pian for a highway and local road system that compliments and facilitates local
movement provided by local streets, as well as bicycle and pedestrian facilities.
Goal 3: Develop a system of priorities for improving the various elements of the
transportation network emphasizing the highest possible standards of safety
and efficiency.
Policies:
A. Continue to update the Capital Improvement Plan for transportation facilities.
B. Maintain a functional classification system for the street system in Oak Park
Heights using the classification system developed by Mn/DOT as found in the table
below.
C. Eliminate and prevent any on -street parking which conflicts with moving traffic or
creates hazards.
D. Relate street improvements to area land development in order to minimize
interrupted or inadequate access.
E. Require design and control of all intersections to promote proper visibility and
safety for drivers, pedestrians, and bicyclists.
F. Develop a uniform system and policy regarding public signage which eliminates
unnecessary signs and replaces outdated, inappropriate and confusing public
signs.
G. Correct traffic safety hazards within the community as these are identified.
H. Reserve required rights-of-way as part of the City's platting process.
I. Where feasible and practical, consider establishing pedestrian and bicycle trails in
conjunction with development subdivision and street and highway improvements.
J. Continue the street reconstruction programs to update and improve the City's utility
and transportation systems.
FUNCTIONAL CLASSIFICATION OF STREETS
Class
Function
Provide Access To
Principal
Service to major centers of activity, provides
Principal arterials
Arterial
continuity to rural arterials stem
Minor arterials
Minor Arterial
Service of an intra -community nature, urban
Principal arterials
concentrations to rural collector roads
Collector streets
Land
Collector Street
Local collection and distribution between collector
Land
streets and arterials, land access to minor generators
Minor arterials
Local streets
Local Streets
Service to abutting land
Land
Higher orders #ems
Source: Minnesota Department of Transportation
Comprehensive Plan 2018
City of Oak Park Heights Page 107
i ',
TRANSPORTATION - GOALS AND POLICIES
TRANSIT
Goal 1: Provide enhanced mass transit options for the residents of Oak Park
Heights and the St. Croix Valley area.
Policies:
A. Work with the Metropolitan Council and State representatives on development of
enhanced transit systems for Oak Park Heights and the St. Croix Valley area.
B. Encourage options for increased ride share programs and expand park and ride
facilities in Oak Park Heights.
C. Continue participation in ongoing feasibility studies for mass transit and rail options
for Highway 36 and 94.
Comprehensive Plan 2018
City of Oak Park Heights Page 108
TRANSPORTATION PLAN
INTRODUCTION
Based upon the information established by the Physical Profile and the foundation
provided by the Goals and Policies, this section provides the framework for a
Transportation Plan. A functional classification system is established for roadways,
guidelines for access management outline are provided, and the capital improvement
program is highlighted. The other transportation routes are also discussed, but trails and
sidewalks are addressed in a separate heading with parks as found in a following chapter
of the plan.
FUNCTIONAL CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM 1 TRANSPORTATION PLAN
The functional classification system for the City's streets and highways is illustrated by
the criteria developed by the Minnesota Department of Transportation (Mn/DOT). The
Transportation Plan Map, found on the following page, illustrates the functional classes
for those roadways within Oak Park Heights. The functional classification system is
based on anticipated usage for five to ten years in the future. This classification of
roadways for Oak Park Heights will be used to determine access points on major
roadways and the design relationship of local roads to other township, community, and
state highways.
The Transportation Plan incorporates the information from the Existing Functional
Classification Map and identifies roadway improvements and extensions discussed as
part of the planning process. The transit facilities and plans are also featured on the map.
The functional classification system for roadways, as identified within the Physical Profile
section for Oak Park Heights, is further defined through the access management systems
table on a following page.
ACCESS MANAGEMENT
In an effort to maintain effective traffic flow and safety, while accommodating the access
needs of land development, access management techniques are utilized. For Oak Park
Heights, access to adjacent roadways is overseen by three primary jurisdictions: Mn/DOT
along the State highways, Washington County along County roads, and Oak Park Heights
along local streets.
Comprehensive Plan 2018
City of Oak Park Heights _ Page 109
TRANSPORTATION PLAN
The table as follows provides guidelines for access control based upon Washington
County guidelines. The land use categories apply to existing and future development in
Oak Park Heights. The term rural should be applied to those roadway segments not
planned for immediate urbanization, including agricultural or sparsely developed areas.
Urban refers to those areas that are commonly urbanized or planned for development in
the short term, including most suburban -type development. The urban use should be
applied to the area of the City that is fully developed.
The access guidelines should be used for all plat and site plan reviews. In that these
guidelines are used as part of a plan and not an ordinance, reasonable discretion could
be applied to each site. Washington County and Mn/DOT will give approvals for access
to all of the roadways under their respective jurisdictions.
WASHINGTON COUNTY
ACCESS SPACING GUIDELINES
Type of Access
yp
Principal
Minor Arterial
Collector
Local
> 7,500 ADT
< 7,500 ADT
Arterial
Private residential driveways
No direct
No direct
(1)
{1)
{1)
access
access
Commercial driveways or non-
No direct
No direct
"/ mile
% mile
(1)
continuous commercial streets
access
access
Non -continuous residential
No direct
% mile with no
Y mile
% mile
(1)
streets
access
median opening
Continuous local streets
Y2 mile
% mile
"/ mile
% mile
"/ mile
and collector streets
Minor arterials
"/2 mile
Y2 mile
"/2 mile
%2 mile
mile
(1) Determination based on other criteria (sight distance, speed, traffic volume, etc.)
Notes:
• Traffic volumes refer to 20 year forecasts.
• Distances shown are minimums.
• "Non -continuous" streets refer to cul -desacs or short length streets (less than "/2 mile) which do not
cross the County highway in question.
The type of traffic control, turn lanes and bypass lanes required will be determined based upon the
projected traffic volumes on the type of access requested.
• County reserves the right to increase the minimums based on other criteria (sight distance, speed, traffic
volume, etc.).
Source: Washington County
Comprehensive Plan 2018
City of Oak Park Heights Page 111
TRANSPORTATION PLAN
TRAFFIC ANALYSIS ZONES
The Transportation Plan must include the allocation of the Metropolitan Council's 2030
population, household and employment forecasts separated into Traffic Analysis Zones
(TAZ). The Metropolitan Council has provided the City a TAZ map with the zones
indicated. The boundaries of these zones extend beyond the City limits and into adjacent
jurisdictions. A map of the zones is found on the following page.
The allocation of population, household and employment numbers and forecasts for the
years 2010, 2020, 2030, and 2040 is found below:
TRAFFIC VOLUMES/PROJECTIONS
As indicated in the Physical Profile section, the traffic volumes on Highway 36 are
projected to almost double by 2030. It is anticipated that the St. Croix River Crossing and
Highway 36 will have a dramatic impact on the residents of Oak Park Heights in that the
community is separated by this roadway. While the bridge has been open for a few
months, there is a perception that the traffic at Norell Avenue, Oakgreen Avenue and
Osgood Avenue has increased. Currently, the only projection for the increase in traffic
was found in the EIS for the bridge project. The City will continue to work with Mn1DOT
and with Washington County on issues related to frontage roads and critical Highway 36
intersections within the City. The at -grade crossings at Norell Avenue, and the south
frontage road of Osgood Avenue will need to be monitored and improved to ensure
adequate traffic flow levels and to assure the safety of drivers and pedestrians at these
locations.
—Ty Commehe_n_ sive Plan 2018
City of Oak Park Heights Page 112
•x i
y
1 {
ALLOCATION
OF FORECASTS
TO TRAFFIC ANALYSIS ZONES AZ
2010
2020
2030
2040
TAZ
Pop
HH
Emp
Pop
HH I
Emp
Pop
HH
Emp
Pop
HH
Em
2372
345
150
0
350
150
0
375
160
0
400
175
0
2373
400
175
450
450
200
500
475
215
525
500
225
650
2374
200
80
200
200
80
450
225
90
5001
250
100
550
2377
1,500
600
1,558
1,730
825
2,150
1,850
955
2,250
2,000
1,000
2,450
2379
1,000
450
1,100
1,050
475
1,150
1,200
520
1,875
1,300
580
2,00 0
2380
700
326
300
800
330
350
875
340
400
950
380
450
2382
300
130
500
300
140
600
300
140
650
300
140
700
2355
0
0
250
0
0 1
400
0
0
600
0
0
700
Total
1 4,445
11,911
4,358
14,880
2,200 1
5,900
5,300
2,420
6,800
5,700 12,600
7,500
Source. Metropolitan Council
Pop = Population Forecasts
HH
= Households Forecasts
Emp =
Employment Forecasts
TRAFFIC VOLUMES/PROJECTIONS
As indicated in the Physical Profile section, the traffic volumes on Highway 36 are
projected to almost double by 2030. It is anticipated that the St. Croix River Crossing and
Highway 36 will have a dramatic impact on the residents of Oak Park Heights in that the
community is separated by this roadway. While the bridge has been open for a few
months, there is a perception that the traffic at Norell Avenue, Oakgreen Avenue and
Osgood Avenue has increased. Currently, the only projection for the increase in traffic
was found in the EIS for the bridge project. The City will continue to work with Mn1DOT
and with Washington County on issues related to frontage roads and critical Highway 36
intersections within the City. The at -grade crossings at Norell Avenue, and the south
frontage road of Osgood Avenue will need to be monitored and improved to ensure
adequate traffic flow levels and to assure the safety of drivers and pedestrians at these
locations.
—Ty Commehe_n_ sive Plan 2018
City of Oak Park Heights Page 112
•x i
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1 {
TRANSPORTATION PLAN
SYSTEM IMPROVEMENTS 1 EXTENSIONS
The Land Use Plan indicates possible annexation of the area south of Highway 36 at
Manning Avenue. If the annexation occurs, the City would consider the extension of 58th
Street to Manning to complete this east/west corridor. The extension would also include
bicycle and pedestrian trails to Manning. Acquisition of right-of-way as part of
development within the existing City limits at will be necessary for future completion of
this corridor.
STREET RECONSTRUCTION/MAINTENANCE PROGRAM
One of the transportation policies indicates a continuation of the street reconstruction and
mill and overlay programs to maintain the local utility and street network. The City Council
and City staff will need to continue to monitor the condition of the City streets. The City
has created a timeline to complete the necessary sections of the network and has a
program to set aside funds to implement this expensive rehabilitation program.
RAIL FACILITIES
The City of Oak Park Heights will work with representatives of Union Pacific on any rail
transportation issues that arise. It is expected that the Allen S. King Plant will continue to
receive all the coal shipments via this rail line.
The 2040 Transportation Plan does not indicate any light rail corridors that would access
Oak Park Heights or neighboring communities in the St. Croix Valley.
AIRPORTS
There is no impact to Oak Park Heights resulting from the Lake Elmo Airport and the City
is not within the airport influence area. The City regulates building and structure height
as it relates to navigable air space.
= - Comprehensive Plan 2018
��. City of Oak Park Heights Page 114
TRANSPORTATION PLAN
BUS 1 TRANSIT SERVICE
One of the issues often raised by officials and residents is the lack of mass transit options
for people in Oak Park Heights and the St. Croix Valley. The commuter service is only
available on weekends but Metro Mobility/ADA provides weekend service. The 2040
Transportation Policy Plan does not call for any significant changes to the level of service
to Oak Park Heights.
The City will continue to work with Metro Transit officials on continuing and expanding the
fixed route transit service for Oak Park Heights to both St. Paul and Minneapolis.
Additionally, the City continues to support the local transit service provided by Washington
County Transit Link Service and Metro Mobility/ADA. This service is especially important
for elderly residents and those that are less independently mobile. Expansion of this
service may be necessary as the population of the St. Croix Valley grows older and less
mobile. The Transportation Plan on a previous page includes the transit plans included
in the 2040 Transportation Policy Plan.
PEDESTRIAN 1 BICYCLE FACILITIES
The pedestrian and bicycle plan for the City is found in a separate section of this
Comprehensive Plan document.
Comprehensive Plan 2018_
City of Oak Park Heights Page 115
COMMUNITY FACILITIES - PHYSICAL PROFILE
INTRODUCTION
Community facilities include those lands, buildings, or services and systems which are
provided on a public or semi-public basis in the interest of or the benefit to the residents
of the community. Their importance should not be under -estimated in that they are
offered as a necessity for sustaining life within the community and are therefore, a major
contributor to the quality and safety of living in the City.
To enhance the quality of life within Oak Park Heights, it is fundamental that adequate
community facilities include parks, open space, administrative offices, essential
community buildings and public utilities.
Public utilities are an important factor in regulating development of particular areas of the
City and areas planned for future annexation. Fair and equitable assessment policies for
landowners and developers are also a necessary element of utility extension.
Government buildings and facilities, such as parks and trails, play a major role in providing
necessary community amenities and in projecting a positive image for the City. These
facilities reflect Oak Park Heights' commitment and dedication to provide its residents
with a quality living environment.
Coag rehensive Plan 2008
City of Oak Park Heights Page 119
COMMUNITY FACILITIES - PHYSICAL PROFILE
FACILITIES AND SERVICES
The City of Oak Park Heights offers a wide range of City services and facilities for its
residents and people who visit the community. In addition to the usual public works,
recreation and governing features of the City, there are excellent education, social service
providers and facilities in the community. A map of the community facilities is found on
the following page. A review of the services and facilities is as follows.
ADMINISTRATION
The operation of the City is governed by a five -member City Council, which includes the
Mayor, elected to staggered four-year terms. Day-to-day operations of the City are the
responsibility of a full-time City Administrator.
PUBLIC BUILDINGS AND FACILITIES
The City of Oak Park Heights City Hall facility is located in the central area of the City,
south of Highway 36 and east of Oakgreen Avenue at 14168 Oak Park Boulevard North,
as identified on the Community Facilities Map. This building, constructed in 2009, houses
the City Council Chambers, City Administration, Police Department and Public Works
office. Adjacent to the City Hall is a Public Works garage.
POLICE PROTECTION
The City of Oak Park Heights provides police protection to the community through its own
Police Department. The Police Department is headquartered in the City Hall building.
The Police Department provides for public safety protection 24 hours a day, seven days
a week to Oak Park Heights in compliance with all City Ordinances and State and Federal
laws.
FIRE PROTECTION
Oak Park Heights is provided fire protection through contract with the City of Bayport Fire
Department. The Bayport Fire Department is a volunteer department that is located at
1012 5t' Avenue North, Bayport in a new facility completed in 2016. The department also
serves the cities of Bayport, Baytown Township and West Lakeland Township.
J:
Comprehensive Plan 2008
k, T
. +r City of Oak Park Heights Page 120
��
t� i � 4 , J� o��t � ��fa � =E� =r
COMMUNITY FACILITIES - PHYSICAL PROFILE
HOS PITALIAMBULANCE SERVICE
The nearest hospital for the Oak Park Heights community is provided through Lakeview
Hospital at 927 Churchill Street in Stillwater. The hospital also provides full emergency
medical service and an all paramedic ambulance squad.
PUBLIC WORKS
The City of Oak Park Heights has its own Public Works Department, employing four full-
time individuals. The responsibilities of the Public Works Department are primarily
maintenance and repair of the City's streets and facilities. In addition, street maintenance
and snow removal from City streets is handled partly by a private contractor. Public
Works offices and equipment is located at the City Hall site.
SCHOOLS
The City of Oak Park Heights is entirely within Independent School District 834. The
current and projected enrollments for the Stillwater Area School District are illustrated in
the table below:
The 2017 enrollment numbers are based upon an actual count taken in that year. The
2018-2020 estimates indicate a decline in the numbers of students for the Stillwater Area
High School and the District. Oak Park Elementary, which is in Stillwater, but adjacent to
Oak Park Heights was closed for elementary enrollment at the end of the 2016/2017
school year. The facility is now used for special education staffing and instruction for
transition disabled students.
The Stillwater Area High School is located within the City of Oak Park Heights at 5701
Stillwater Boulevard North. The high school facility includes outdoor athletic fields and a
Comprehensive Plan 2008
fy City of Oak Park Heights Page 123
i
SCHOOL DISTRICT 834
ENROLLMENT
Oak Park Stillwater Area
Elementary Hi h School
District
Total
2017
48 2,839
8,468
2018
Estimate
50 2,801
8,324
2019
Estimate
50 2,744
8,185
2020
Estimate
50 2,712
8,072
Source: Stillwater Area School District 834
The 2017 enrollment numbers are based upon an actual count taken in that year. The
2018-2020 estimates indicate a decline in the numbers of students for the Stillwater Area
High School and the District. Oak Park Elementary, which is in Stillwater, but adjacent to
Oak Park Heights was closed for elementary enrollment at the end of the 2016/2017
school year. The facility is now used for special education staffing and instruction for
transition disabled students.
The Stillwater Area High School is located within the City of Oak Park Heights at 5701
Stillwater Boulevard North. The high school facility includes outdoor athletic fields and a
Comprehensive Plan 2008
fy City of Oak Park Heights Page 123
i
COMMUNITY FACILITIES - PHYSICAL PROFILE
significant amount of open space on its site in west Oak Park Heights. Oak Park
Elementary, which is located in Stillwater at 6355 Osman Avenue North, also has a
recreation area on its site located in northeast Oak Park Heights. This area includes sand
areas and playground equipment for use by younger children.
PARKS AND TRAILS
The Oak Park Heights parks and trail system is highlighted in detail in the Parks and Trails
chapter of the Comprehensive Plan. A separate Parks and Trails Plan will also be
completed as a separate document to the Comprehensive Plan.
WATER SERVICE
Property within Oak Park Heights is served by a municipal water system. The existing
system draws water from two wells, which have a peak production capacity of 2.4 million
gallons per day (MGD). The water is treated and fluoride added. The water distribution
system consists of two elevated storage facilities which provide total storage of 750,000
gallons.
The City's Engineer, Stantec, has completed a Water System Plan that provides for
background information and water system planning. A copy of the Water System Plan is
found in the Appendix section of this plan.
SANITARY SEWER SERVICE
Public sanitary sewer service is provided to almost every residence, business and
property in the community. The City's Engineer, Stantec, has completed a Sanitary
Sewer System Plan that provides the background information and sewer plans. A copy
of the Sanitary Sewer System Plan is found in the Appendix section of this plan.
LOCAL WATER PLAN
The City's Engineer, Stantec, has completed a Local Water Plan for the City that provides
the background and plan for storm sewer planning. A copy of the Local Water Plan is
found in the Appendix section of this plan.
F Cam rehensive Plan. 2008
. City of Oak Park Heights Page 124
COMMUNITY FACILITIES - GOALS AND POLICIES
INTRODUCTION
Community facilities include those lands, buildings, services and systems that are
provided to the public in the interest of, or benefit to, the residents of the community.
Their importance should not be under -estimated in that they are a necessity for sustaining
an urban environment and are a major determinant of the quality and safety of urban
living. The following goals and policies are to serve as guides for the planning,
implementation and maintenance of community facilities.
GENERAL GOALS AND POLICIES
Goal 1: Maintain and improve existing services, facilities and infrastructure to meet
the needs and interests of the community.
Policies:
A. Continue to implement a Capital Improvement Program that addresses the repair
and improvement of community facilities including streets, utilities, storm water
management, community buildings, and parks.
B. Periodically evaluate the space needs of governmental and public service
buildings.
C. Update street, water, storm sewer and sanitary sewer plans by the City Engineer
on an as needed basis or as required by other jurisdictions.
D. Promote and encourage cooperation and coordination between governmental
units to avoid duplication of public service facilities and services.
Goal 2: Plan and provide public facilities and services in a coordinated and
economic manner on a basis that is consistent with the nature of existing
and proposed development within the community.
Policies:
A. Prohibit extension of service to properties outside the corporate limits without an
agreement as to the annexation of that property.
B. Discourage the expansion of public sewer and water services into areas:
1. Not contiguous to existing development or service areas.
2. Areas not within the current limits of the service boundary.
3. When a burden is placed upon the City to expand the urban service area
prematurely.
C. Minimize the impact of required utility facilities and services upon surrounding land
uses.
Corn rehensive Plan 2008
'I.,
City of Oak Park Heights Page 12105
I
COMMUNITY FACILITIES - GOALS AND POLICIES
D. Encourage and promote underground installation of all new utility services and
require, when feasible, the conversion of existing overhead systems to
underground.
E. Encourage the protection of ground water recharge areas.
F. Preserve natural drainage to the extent possible.
Goal 3: Utilize public improvements as a means for continuing civic beautification
and an impetus for stimulating investment in private property.
Policies:
A. Work to enhance residential and commercial areas through public improvements
to contribute to the areas' identity.
B. Keep all public buildings and grounds well maintained.
C. Adequately screen, landscape and buffer public facilities in order to minimize their
impact on surrounding uses and enhance the community and area in which they
are located.
Goal 4: Maintain, update, and improve public buildings and support regional
facilities that benefit the community.
Policies:
A. Continue to maintain, update and improve public buildings as needed.
Comprehensive Plan 2008
_ City of Oak Park Heights Page 126
COMMUNITY FACILITIES PLANT
INTRODUCTION
The Physical Profile and the Goals and Policies provide the background and foundation
for the Community Facilities Plan. This section will address the public facilities and
services that the City of Oak Park Heights now maintains and will provide as the City
completes its infill and redevelopment.
PUBLIC BUILDINGS AND FACILITIES
With the completion of the City Hall building in 2009 and the remodel and expansion of
the public works building, the City/Police facilities and the maintenance garage will serve
the community well for years to come. There are no other major facility replacement or
improvements planned now other than upkeep and maintenance of existing.
POLICE AND FIRE
The City's police and fire services adequately serve the emergency protection needs of
the community at this time. The contract with the Bayport Fire Department has served
the community well and will be continued into the future. The City will need to continue
to monitor its needs for fire and ambulance service, especially as the elderly population
of the community grows. The new Bayport Fire Department facility, completed in 2016,
will also serve the member communities well for years to come.
Additional study will be necessary to determine if the Bayport Fire Department could serve
the development of the annexation area to the west of the City. If an annexation proposal
is presented to the City, a study would be necessary.
PARKS AND TRAILS
The Parks and Trails chapter of the Comprehensive Plan provides a summary of the
background, policies and plans. A separate Parks and Trails Plan will be completed as
a separate document to the Comprehensive Plan.
WATER SERVICE
The Water System Plan, prepared by the City Engineer, Stantec, is found as attached in
the Appendix of this document.
Comprehensive Plan 2008
}Y . City of Oak Park Heights Page 127
COMMUNITY FACILITIES PLANT
SANITARY SEWER SERVICE
The Sanitary Sewer Service Plan, prepared by the City Engineer, Stantec, is found as
attached in the Appendix of this document.
The City has a limited number of properties on individual sewage disposal systems. The
City has adopted the Washington County model for regulating the specifications,
installation and maintenance of on-site individual sewage treatment systems in Oak Park
Heights.
LOCAL WATER PLAN
The Local Water Plan, prepared by the City Engineer, Stantec, is found as attached in
the Appendix of this document.
The City has adopted a stormwater drainage ordinance to establish standards for
regulating development procedures as it affects erosion and sediment control.
Additionally, the City has adopted an ordinance to regulate the development on
restorative soils.
CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM
On a yearly basis, the City Council develops a Five Year Capital Improvement Plan. The
program for the years 2018-2022 is found in the Appendix of this document.
Comrehensive Plan 2048
City of Oak Park Heights Page 128
_f =�
ADMINISTRATION — INTRODUCTION
INTRODUCTION
Administration and implementation of the Comprehensive Plan are an important aspect
of the development of the plan. In essence, unless the plan and related development
tools are constantly referenced and utilized in combination with long range community
decision-making, the efforts spent on their development become waste.
The administrative function of the City is to provide an efficient level of public service,
assure that there is an adequate tax base and funding sources, and provide current and
effective plans, programs, codes and ordinances. The City must provide a high level and
quality of services while not placing an undue tax burden on property owners.
Additionally, elected and appointed officials must be able to communicate with citizens
and facilitate the level of public participation and input to provide an effective system of
government.
Staffing, community identity, public relations, zoning and subdivision regulations, capital
improvement planning, and economic development are issues that must be addressed
as a result of the comprehensive planning process. The issues listed below are seen as
the most critical element of an administrative planning program and should receive priority
in implementation. Annexation and jurisdictional issues must also be discussed as it
relates to cooperation with the Cities of Lake Elmo and Bayport, and with Baytown and
Stillwater Townships.
�� 1
`° Comprehensive Plan 2008
City of Oak Park Heights Page 128
fr
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ADMINISTRATION - GOALS AND POLICIES
INTRODUCTION
Implementation of the Comprehensive Plan will require the City to take specific
administrative and operations actions. Goals and policies to guide these actions are
established here for general administration, codes and ordinances, public safety, finance
and public participation. The following text provides statements of the administrative
goals and policies.
Goal 1: Maintain and enhance Oak Park Heights' positive identity.
Policies:
A. Establish a cohesive image for the entire community through the uniform
application of community promotion, design and service.
B. Build on community strengths such as strong residential neighborhoods, quality
local government, quality municipal infrastructure, and excellent school and park
amenities in defining the City's identity.
C. Remain proactive in addressing outstanding City issues or concerns that may
detract from the City's identity.
Goal 2: Encourage planning on a regional level and promote cooperation among
neighboring jurisdictions.
Policies:
A. The City will continue to work with neighboring Cities of Stillwater, Lake Elmo and
Bayport, Baytown Township, Stillwater Township, and Washington County on
issues of regional importance.
B. The City will continue to work with neighboring cities and the township for sharing
of necessary services and City boundary issues.
Goal 3: Respond to the concerns and issues of Oak Park Heights residents.
Policies:
A. Maintain good communication with City residents and businesses through direcl
contact, open meetings, television, radio, the City website, newsletters, outreach
programs, and project bulletins.
B. Remain proactive in addressing planning issues, code enforcement, and nuisance
complaints raised by the citizens and local businesses.
Comprehensive Plan 2008
City of Oak Park Heights Page 129
ADMINISTRATION - GOALS AND POLICIES
C. Continue support for police and fire programs and activities that maintain peace,
order, and safety.
D. Maintain communication between the City, County and the School District to
address ongoing community, regional and school issues.
Goal 4: Continue to operate the City within a fiscally sound philosophy
Policies:
A. Maintain and enhance the City's local tax base.
B. Annually review and update the City's Capital Improvement Program for the
management, programming, and budgeting of improvement needs.
C. Utilize special assessments and/or special taxing districts in assigned costs for
public improvements to benefiting parties.
D. Utilize cooperative agreements to share facilities and take advantage of inter-
governmental shared services to avoid duplication and expense.
E. Annually review and analyze the City's financial position and debt service to ensure
proper fiscal programming and management.
Goal 5: Protect property values and maintain a strong and diverse tax base.
Policies:
A. Promote private reinvestment in Oak Park Heights properties through building
renovation, expansion, maintenance, and redevelopment.
B. Provide assistance and information with regard to available programs that may
assist local property owners in building renovation and expansion.
C. Enhance local tax base within the City by encouraging new, high quality
commercial buildings and expansions.
Goal fi: Address issues related to the changing demographics of the community
including specific demands on housing, transportation services, education and
recreational needs.
Policies:
A. The City will continue to monitor population changes or influx of age groups within
the community.
B. The City will cooperate with other governmental agencies, social service providers,
and educational leaders to provide the transportation, education, service and
recreational needs of the community.
Comprehensive Plan 2008
City of Oak Park Heights Page 130
ADMINISTRATION - GOALS AND POLICIES
C. The City will continue to implement housing programs addressing community
housing needs as a whole, but also working to provide adequate levels of housing
for those growing population groups including students, working individuals and
families, and the elderly.
Goal 7: Improve substandard and/or distressed properties.
Policies:
A. Inform local property owners of the regulations, programs or incentives that may
assist them in the maintenance or renovation of their properties.
B. Encourage the private redevelopment of substandard or obsolete properties.
Public assistance may be applicable where the redevelopment is consistent with
the goals of the Oak Park Heights Comprehensive Plan and within the financial
capabilities of the City.
C. Redevelop select, commercial/industrial properties which display deteriorated
building conditions, obsolete site design, incompatible land use arrangements and
high vacancy levels.
Goal 8: Review, update, and establish new plans, codes and ordinances, as
needed, to respond to the changing needs of the City and for community improvement.
Policies:
A. Periodically review the provisions of the Zoning and Subdivision Ordinance, and
Design Guidelines to respond to the changing needs of development and
redevelopment areas.
B. Periodically review the Comprehensive Plan on a formal basis to ensure that it is
current and reflective of the community's interest and changing needs.
Goal 9: Maintain the current programs and strategies to provide incentives to new
development in the community, as well as the retention and growth of existing area
businesses.
Policies:
A. Development incentives will be applied to projects that either enhance the tax
base, land use, or provide job opportunities.
B. Within economic capabilities, provide those public services and facilities to existing
businesses to help ensure their satisfaction with locating in the community.
C. Utilize tax increment financing, tax abatement, and other financing programs for
projects which meet the objectives of the City.
A) Comprehensive Plan 2008
City of Oak Park Heights Page 131
ADMINISTRATION - GOALS AND POLICIES
D. On projects of a magnitude which warrant it, involve state and regional incentive
programs to leverage local economic development resources.
E. Work with businesses presently existing in the City on plans and programs for
expansion and enhancement.
F. Identify and promote economic development which takes advantage of market
opportunities afforded by the major transportation corridors such as Highways 36,
15, and 95.
G. Identify and promote economic development which makes use of recreational
market opportunities which result from the area's natural amenities.
H. Work with the Greater Stillwater Chamber of Commerce on issues related to the
promotion of tourism and local business.
Goal 10: Continue investment in programs to maintain and enhance the public safety
of residents and visitors to Oak Park Heights.
Policies:
A. Continue support for police and fire programs and activities that maintain peace,
order and safety.
4.Com rehensive Plan 2008
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14, City of Oak Park Heights Page 132
ADMINISTRATION PLAN
INTRODUCTION
The administrative and governing function of the City is to provide an efficient level of
public service, assure that there is an adequate tax base and funding sources, and
provide current and effective plans, programs, codes and ordinances. The City must
provide a high level and quality of services while not placing an undue tax burden on
property owners. Additionally, elected and appointed officials and staff must be able to
communicate with citizens and facilitate the level of public participation and input to
provide an effective system of government.
The Mayor and four Council members comprise the governing body for the City. They
are elected on an at -large basis and serve a four year term. The City Council meetings
are held in the Council Chambers of City Hall the second and fourth Tuesdays of each
month.
Day-to-day operations of the City are the responsibility of the City Administrator and staff.
STAFFING
As the City continues to grow, staffing levels will need to be evaluated. The City will need
to monitor staffing levels carefully and make adjustments as necessary.
COMMUNITY IDENTITY
Community identity has been identified as a significant issue for the City of Oak Park
Heights. Stillwater, being the larger community with its historic downtown, is seen as the
only city in the area. City of Oak Park Heights continues with its efforts to promote
recognition and identification. Use of the City name and logos on water towers and other
public structures has helped the City to be recognized as another jurisdiction.
Construction of welcome signs at the primary entrances to the community is one way of
further promoting recognition. Continued use of the area newspapers, cable TV, the City
website, and the City newsletter are all ways to assist in promoting and identifying Oak
Park Heights in the St. Croix Valley. Promotion of the City parks, and its lineal trail system
that will provide access to other adjacent cities' trail systems and the regional trail system,
is seen as a significant way of introducing people to Oak Park Heights. The City will
continue to work on ways to promote the community, its residential neighborhoods, and
its business and industrial sites through the use of the media and internet.
Comprehensive Plan 2008
City of Oak Park Heights Page 133
ADMINISTRATION PLAN
PUBLIC RELATIONS
Oak Park Heights has an ongoing policy of providing effective public education regarding
City activities. Such programs have numerous benefits, including greater public
accountability and an increased awareness of City functions. Additionally, good
communication with the other municipalities, area townships, the County and regional
levels of government will be vital in this growing, diverse metropolitan area.
To continue and improve the lines of communication between the City government and
its citizens, Oak Park Heights should continue to use announcements, newspapers, and
other forms of public media such as the internet and cable access. Public support on
projects or expansion will only be possible if the public is informed of various area plans
and an open forum of opinions and comments is coordinated. The City will also continue
to develop and enhance its relationship with other jurisdictions in the area and region.
The City will work with the Cities of Bayport, Stillwater, Lake Elmo and other jurisdictions
to continue promoting joint provision of services and coordination of activities. The quality
of life of the overall area can only be enhanced if all the governments and public/private
organizations work together to promote and develop the metropolitan area.
ZONING AND SUBDIVISION REGULATIONS
Obviously, a community's plans, programs, codes and ordinances are of value only if they
are implemented and kept current. When such plans and ordinances become outdated,
the City's ability to respond to community goals is hampered. To ensure that such plans
are kept up to date, the City should regularly update its plans and codes as necessary.
The City has consistently kept its zoning and subdivision regulations current with the
changing face of the community. In 1995, the City completed a major update of its Zoning
Ordinance. There are a number of areas within the ordinance that could be reviewed and
updated after the completion of the Comprehensive Plan. Additionally, the City will re-
examine the Design Guidelines and update the standards to encourage more variety in
building styles and architecture.
i
Comprehensive Plan 2008
City of Oak Park Heights Page 134
ADMINISTRATION PLAN
CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLANNING
The City of Oak Park Heights has an effective system of capital improvement planning
that is scheduled or updated on a yearly basis. The Capital Improvement Plan is
essentially a long range spending plan used to guide the community's expenditures
according to need and the community's ability to pay. The program forces the City to look
toward the future to anticipate its needs before it becomes evident. In order to fund such
items as physical improvement or extensions of roadway and utilities to the City, the
Capital Improvements Plan can be used as a planning tool. The Citywill update the Five -
Year Capital Improvement Program in 2018 that will be attached as an appendix to this
Comprehensive Plan.
Comurehensive Plan 2008
I City of Oak Park Heights Page 135
PARKS AND TRAILS -INTRODUCTION
INTRODUCTION
The Parks and Trail section of the Oak Park Heights Comprehensive Plan is built on the
foundation created with the first Comprehensive Bicycle and Pedestrian Trail System
Plan of 1995, the 1999 Comprehensive Park and Trail System Plan and the 2008
Comprehensive Park and Trail System Plan. The 2018 Comprehensive Plan
acknowledges that the community is almost completely developed and anticipates that
there will be little, if any, expansion of the City limits in coming years. The population
growth and number of households is expected to grow slightly, to over 5,000 persons,
and remain stable. It is expected that the City's population will continue to age,
especially with the large numbers of elderly housing units. In 2000, 12.8 percent of the
city's population was 65 years and over, by 2010 that climbed to 23.0 percent and in
2015 it was 30.7 percent. In recognition of the demographics of the community,
especially the aging of the population, this plan seeks to provide opportunities for
recreation for all ages.
The 2017 Community Survey asked residents about the current park and trail system
and they stated that it was one of their favorite aspects of living in Oak Park Heights.
Respondents had the following opinion regarding the condition of City parks and trails:
1. Excellent — 23.2 percent
2. Above Average — 56.9 percent
3. Average —16.2 percent
Respondents utilization of a City Park or trail is as follows:
1. Every day —17.0 percent
2. A few times per week — 37.8 percent
3. On occasion — 26.8 percent
The City recognizes that the community is almost completely built out and new park
land will not be created as a result of land subdivision. The continuing emphasis in
coming years will be on improvements within the existing parks, trail connections within
the community, and addressing the park and recreation needs of an aging population.
i
Comprehensive Plan 2018
?- City of Oak Park Heights Page 145
y'
PARKS AND TRAILS -PHYSICAL PROFILE
EXISTING PARKS AND TRAILS
The Oak Park Heights park system offers numerous City parks distributed throughout
the City and a trail system that nearly connects all parts of the community. The park
facilities offer a full range of recreational activities. A list of the existing parks is as
follows. A map of the existing park and trail locations is found on a following page.
The City of Oak Park Heights contains six established parks. The parks vary in size,
location, and service. Parks play an important role, not only in their overall recreational
benefit to the residents of Oak Park Heights but as a crucial destination point directly
related to the establishment of trails. All are interrelated and each portion from the park
land itself, all the way down to a single picnic table or foot of trail, plays an important
role in completing a recreational link, therefore adding to the comprehensive system.
Valley View Park is the largest park within the City and is intended as a City-wide
passive park for hikers, picnics and nature. It is viewed by the City as a very unique
and positive amenity in the community given its dense vegetation, variation in
topography, wetlands, and array of existing and potential uses. The park is an
important link between the east portion of the City and Osgood Avenue (via its entrance
drive, and/or through Brekke Heights or Valley View Estates residential subdivisions).
Adjacent to the Valley View Park is Oak Park Crossings Park.
Brekke Park is a high quality, intensively utilized City park intended as an active area
for field games and a playground area for toddler age and older. It is located adjacent
to State of Minnesota land controlled by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR)
and serves as a community playfield for residents in the south-central portion of the
City, primarily between Osgood and Oakgreen Avenues. The City will continue to work
with the DNR to allow utilization of the property for open space, limited recreation and
trails. In 2007, the City purchased the property at 5502 Osgood Avenue, adjacent to
Brekke Park and created a disc golf course.
Swager Park serves as a neighborhood playground along the linear park system. The
park is fairly centralized within the community and is located within an Xcel Energy
easement. A trail has been constructed within the easement from just east of Swager
Park, through the City to Highway 5.
Com ehensive Plan 2018
City of Oak Park Heights Page 146
PARKS AND 1 RAILS -PHYSICAL PROFILE
Cover Park is the oldest and smallest park in the City and provides an active area for
residents in the Village of Oak Park Heights neighborhoods who are otherwise
somewhat segregated from the north and western portions of the City. A year-round
park building, and parking lot was added in 2017.
Autumn Hills Park and Haase Recreational Area serves as a neighborhood park and
is surrounded by the Boutwells Landing senior community. The park serves as a focal
point for residents from all areas of the City with the large play equipment area and a
park shelter with restrooms. The recreational area features trails, utilities and natural
areas adjacent to the Autumn Hills neighborhood and the Environment Living Center of
the Stillwater Area High School.
Oak Park Crossing Park is the City's newest park. It has a playground, park shelter,
walking trails, and prairie grass plantings. It was developed on the former Allan S King
ask disposal facility and is adjacent to Valley View Park.
On the following page is a list of the existing park components for each of the six City
parks.
Trail connections have been constructed over the past two decades to provide
important linkages between neighborhoods, commercial areas, and parks. In 1995,
when the Comprehensive Bicycle and Pedestrian Trail System Plan was completed, the
only trail routes available were a few sidewalks located in the area adjacent to the City
of Stillwater and limited trail connections to existing parks. In the last 23 years, the City
has developed an off -and on -street trail system that enables the pedestrian or bicyclist
to move safely throughout the City. There are many linkages and crossings that must
still be addressed.
Currently, the trail system in Oak Park Heights includes 10.5 miles of municipal
separated, off-street trails; 4.0 miles of municipal on -street trail routes; 5.8 miles of State
trails; and .3 miles of private trails.
The City will continue to focus on making linkages, especially with development and
redevelopment projects. North/south connections, especially along Oakgreen and
Osgood Avenues, as well as crosswalks on or under these roadways, will continue to be
a priority.
The Existing Parks and Trails Map on a following page indicates the system current as
of 2018.
�J
Comprehensive Plan 2018
=' City of Oak Park Heights Page 147
PARKS AND TRAILS -PHYSICAL PROFILE
EXISTING PARK COMPONENTS
Source: City of Oak Park Heights
Com ehensive Plan 2018
City of Oak Park Heights Page 148
Valley
View
Park
Brekke
Park
Swager
Park
Cover
Park
Autumn
Hills
Park
Oak Park
Crossing
Park
Size
57 acres
13 acres
1.4 acres
1 acre
24 acres
35 acres
Picnic Shelter
✓
with bath
with
ADA
access
✓
✓
witth
ADA access
moor
Baseball/Softball
Warming House
with shelter
ADA
access
with bath
with shelter
Basketball Court
M/
M/
✓
Tennis Courts
✓
Soccer/Open
Soccer/0 en Field
youth only,
Fall
Play Set
�/
�%
�/
✓
✓
✓
Swing Set
✓
✓
✓
✓
✓
Spring Animal
✓
Horseshoe Pit
Grills
✓
�/
✓
✓
✓
✓
Picnic Tables
�/
�/
`/
✓
✓
✓
Bench/Seat
�/
�/
✓
✓
✓
Bike Rack/Stand
�/
�/
✓
✓
Trail/Path Connection
�/
`/
✓
✓
✓
✓
Disc Golf Course
Signage
�/
�%
, f
�/
✓
✓
Source: City of Oak Park Heights
Com ehensive Plan 2018
City of Oak Park Heights Page 148
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PARKS AND TRAILS PLAN
PARK ISSUES - INTRODUCTION
The Parks Commission discussed issues relating to existing parks and trails in meetings
on January 29, 2018 and February 21, 2018. The following is a summary of issues
raised by the Parks Commission and staff.
GENERAL PARK ISSUES
• Provide opportunities for all ages to participate in lifetime fitness through the use
of trails, park facilities, and other activities.
• With an aging population, assure that facilities and programs are designed to
accommodate people in this sector of the population.
• Develop recreational and environmental education programs to familiarize people
with the parks.
• Decide if and how coordination with the recreational needs of the County, athletic
associations, civic groups, etc. can be accomplished.
• Create Oak Park Heights monument signs with plantings welcoming visitors to
the City.
• Determine whether existing and proposed park areas are desired for year-round
or seasonal usage and what effect this will have on park facilities and design.
• Define the means by which park development can minimize impacts on adjacent
properties, i.e., off-street parking, screening, landscaping, setbacks, etc.
• Continue to work with Stillwater Area Schools to assure continued play area use
at Oak Park Elementary.
• Link all parks within the City through a system of trails.
VALLEY VIEW PARK
• Replace easement trail from Ozark Avenue.
Make building improvements to park shelter such as providing a deck on the east
side, extension to north side, installing gutters, and adding electrical outlets.
• Provide trail connections to the east of the park shelter.
• Provide trail connections to the north of the park shelter, across the ravine.
• Replace fencing
• Remove buckthorn from the easterly wooded area.
• Add picnic tables.
Comprehensive Plan 2018
ak
City of Oak Park Heights Page 151
PARKS AND TRAILS PLAN
OAK PARK CROSSING PARK
• Include exercise equipment along trail system.
Determine if water fountains can be added.
• Provide a trail connection along the eastern border of Perro Pond.
• Add a swing set near the playground area.
• Add picnic tables within picnic shelters.
BREKKE PARK
• Continued maintenance and improvements to the existing Brekke Park picnic
shelter.
• Replace hockey boards.
• Work with Washington County on construction of a tunnel under Osgood Avenue
to provide safe access from Brekke Park to the trail and park system to the east.
• Improve and update play equipment as needed.
• Provide a connecting trail behind the baseball fields through the wildlife
management area.
• Replace easement trail and fence off 55th Street.
• Consider a trail with an east/west orientation along the existing parking lot and
edge of the park to provide a connection to the upper playground.
• Consider purchase, if available for sale, of the DNR managed property to the
south of Brekke Park,
SWAGER PARK
• Consider the park as a linear park segment within the trail system, rather than a
destination.
• Include exercise equipment along trail system
• Provide benches, picnic tables within the park as needed.
• Work with Xcel on planting prairie grass in that area north of City Hall.
• Install a community garden area.
• Replacement of fence as needed along the south boundary of park with
neighborhood involvement.
• Add water service with water fountain and hydrant.
• The City shall take park land dedication for potential redevelopment area north of
Swager Park.
Comp ehensiVe Plan 2015
City of Oak Park Heights Page 152
PARKS AND TRAILS PLAN
COVER PARK
• Monitor maintenance and improvements to new park shelter including installing
gutters.
• Maintain/improve perennial planting slope.
AUTUMN HILLS PARK AND HAASE RECREATIONAL AREA
• Monitor condition of playground equipment and replace as necessary.
• Monitor condition of picnic tables and benches and replace as necessary.
• Provide additional tree plantings within the park and replace ash trees.
• Provide no smoking signs by playground.
• Add bike racks near the park shelter.
• Provide connections to the Boutwells Historic Village area to the south of the
park and explore programs and cross -utilization of both facilities.
GENERAL TRAIL ISSUES
• Restore prairie areas where possible along the trail system.
• Construct educational environmental kiosks and signs at Valley View Park, by
City Hall, at Oak Park Crossing Park, at Autumn Hills Park, and in other
appropriate locations along the east/west trail corridor.
• Provide benches, resting areas, picnic tables, water fountains, and exercise
courses along trails.
• Complete the striping of the southern edge of the Andersen Office Building
parking lot with a trail lane and stripe a crosswalk over Osgood with signage
between Osgood and Valley View Park.
• Improve trail signage where necessary to (1) denote the type of trail; (2) to give
direction as to where they lead; and (3) to wam vehicles of trail crossings, on -
street routes, etc. for safety purposes.
• Look at options and locations for lighting of trail corridors.
• Assure that all new trail construction is disability accessible.
• The size of trails involves two factors: width and length. The minimum
recommended width for multi -use trails is eight feet, although it is beneficial in
many situations to provide increased width depending upon the use and location.
The length of trails should be varied to provide choices for users.
• Explore options for signage and street marking for on street trails.
• The location of trails within the community may be constructed in one of three
general ways: 1) on street, separated by a painted line, 2) off-street, but parallel
to the road surface like a sidewalk, or 3) completely separated from the road and
not necessarily parallel to it.
r' City of Oak Park Heights
Comprehensive Plan 2018
Page 153
PARKS AND TRAILS PLAN
Work with the City Engineer to define the right-of-way widths that are necessary
to establish trails along designated roadways; for instances: an eight -foot trail
necessitates, at a minimum, a 20 -foot easement and 10 -foot level bench
(construction) area. Many times, additional temporary easement areas are
needed to grade surrounding areas.
• Consider developing cross-country trails throughout the City.
NORTHERN OAK PARK HEIGHTS TRAIL ISSUES
• Provide interconnections with the Stillwater trail system whenever possible.
• Link Sunnyside to Mn/DOT's trail.
• Link Sunnyside to the bluff area by way of Lookout Trail.
• Find a way to link Lookout Trail to the west.
• Provide a trail connection to the Scenic Overlook.
EASTERN OAK PARK HEIGHTS TRAIL ISSUES
• Work with Washington County to providing trails along Osgood Avenue.
• Provide access for those residents east of Osgood Avenue to safely cross
Osgood Avenue and access the parks and trails to the west.
• Provide interconnection with the Bayport trail system whenever possible.
WESTERN OAK PARK HEIGHTS TRAIL ISSUES
• Connect the Highway 36 frontage road to 58th Street on the west side of
Menard's.
• Complete interconnections between the commercial and residential areas to the
58th Street trail and the Xcel easements trail system.
• Link Baytown Township and Stillwater Township with the Oak Park Heights trail
system.
• Provide interconnection with the Lake Elmo trail system wherever possible.
• Provide trails on both sides of Oakgreen Avenue.
• Connect the Pondview Condominiums at the southwest corner of Highway 36
and Oakgreen Avenue to the rest of the trail system.
• Provide safe crossings on Oakgreen Avenue.
Comp ehensive Plan 2018
City of Oak Park Heights Page 154
PARKS AND TRAILS PLAN
GOALS AND POLICIES INTRODUCTION
Goals and policies reflect the community's direction as it relates to its recreation system
and provides more detailed guidance on park and trail development. Park and trail
goals and policies were developed through an analysis of the issues identified by the
Parks Commission.
As with any policy plan, it is important to read the statements together rather than as
disjointed declarations. Although conceptual development may leave the map out of
date, it is expected that policies are more enduring.
SYSTEM GOALS
• Protect, preserve and improve environmentally sensitive areas and natural
resources in all parks and trail corridor areas.
• Establish and maintain recreation facilities that maximize participation and
overcome physical or economic limitations which may prevent equal opportunity,
regardless of age, race, sex, religion, or place of residence.
• Plan and maintain an attractive and diverse system of parks that address the
park needs of all segments of the community.
• Provide linkages within Oak Park Heights as well as to neighboring communities
and regional systems by a safe and convenient multi -use trail/sidewalk system.
SYSTEM POLICIES
• Develop an ongoing planning process for the establishment of parks and trails
which responds to the Comprehensive Land Use Plan Policies as well as those
identified herein.
• Identify present and future park/trail needs with surveys of residents for
evaluation by the Park Commission and City Council.
• Review the established park/trail plans as needed to ensure that needs and
priorities are up to date.
• Prepare a master plan for each component of the park/trail system to be used as
the basis for development.
• Promote public participation in the planning process via the Park Commission
hosting forums for open discussion of issues, by newsletter, and the City's
website.
Comprehensive Plan 2018
sIR City of Oak Park Heights Page 155
,g
PARKS AND TRAILS PLAN
PROGRAM MINGIDEVELOPMENT POLICIES
• Create and maintain an attractive, diverse, and interesting system of urban
parks/trails.
• Create a City-wide park and trail system designed to minimize conflicts between
pedestrians and motor vehicles.
• Minimize park and trail construction costs by constructing trails in conjunction
with State, County, and City street improvements.
• Parks and trails are constructed on a priority basis, according to capital
improvement plan/available funds.
• Encourage the private sector to provide recreational opportunitiestfacilities.
• Provide support facilities in conjunction with trail development.
• Determine where the establishment of user fees is appropriate to lower
recreation costs for the City.
• Determine under what circumstances unsolicited gifts and donations will be
accepted if they are free of obligations or potential future impacts.
• Determine under what circumstances volunteer efforts will be utilized to expand
the City's recreational elements.
• Active use recreation areas should be designed for year-round use.
• Park and trail development should minimize impacts on adjacent properties
through provisions for, but not limited to:
o Adequate off-street parking.
o Appropriate orientation and location of buildings and activity areas.
o Screening, buffering, and landscaping.
o Adequate setbacks and physical separation.
• Preserve existing physical site amenities (natural or man-made) and encourage
the establishment of new site amenities when planning and developing park
areas.
FACILITY PURPOSE AND DESIGN POLICIES
• Establish park and trail facilities which provide recreational as well as functional
uses.
• Provide varying types of trails to be used as the basis of planning and
development for the multiple use trail system, defined as a comprehensive trail
system for the integration of a variety of compatible non -motorized trail uses
(pedestrian, bicycles, roller skating, cross country skiing, etc.).
• Grades of trails should not exceed five percent to ensure disability accessibility or
eight to ten percent for all others.
• Design and construct trails according to the standards established by the
National Park and Recreation Association, the State Department of
City of Oak Park Heights
CgMehensive Plan 2018
Page 156
PARKS AND TRAILS PLAN
Transportation, and Rails -to -Trails Conservancy (see Trail Design Standards
attached herein).
• The inclusion of environmental sensitive areas (river frontage, native prairie,
bluffs, unique vegetative associations, etc.) into park or trail facilities should be
considered to contribute to the overall recreation system.
Park facilities and buildings should be compatible with surrounding urban or rural
activities with regard to scale, design, color, setbacks, and materials.
• Potentially develop dual -use corridors incorporating bicycle and pedestrian
corridors with ski touring or sledding routes during the snow season.
• Maintain all trails in good repair and ensure that designated trail segments are
kept open and clear of snow throughout the year unless designated for winter
use.
• Consideration shall be given to safety, visibility, and emergency access into
parks when acquiring land or planning for their development.
• Bicycles shall only be allowed upon paved surfaces within the City as designated
by ordinance. Mountain biking is allowed on trails designated for this purpose.
• Develop, and update as needed, policies for mountain bike and in-line skate
usage.
MAINTENANCE AND OPERATION POLICIES
• Provide for the efficient maintenance and operation of clean, orderly, controlled,
safe, and attractive parks and trailways. Park maintenance and operation shall
safeguard the physical condition of trailways from deterioration or damage due to
weather, vandalism, or other natural or human causes.
• Develop a clear and concise system of park and trail graphics and signage that
direct people along trails and into parks to specific points of interest.
• Define specific park and trail safety rules.
PUBLIC RELATIONS AND COMMUNITY ISSUES POLICIES
• Develop ways in which to promote citizen interest and involvement in the City's
park and trail system.
• Continue to update and distribute the pamphlet that shows the trail routes, parks,
service and public facilities.
• Monitor characteristics of use, safety, and other factors periodically throughout
the park and trail system.
• Develop ways to organize community recreation programs and facilities to
maximize participation and overcome physical or economic limitations which may
prevent equal opportunity, regardless of age, race, sex, religion, or place of
residence.
JfW Comprehensive Plan 2018
f City of Oak Park Heights Page 157
PARKS AND TRAILS PLAN
PARK AND TRAILS PLAN INTRODUCTION
The Oak Park Heights Parks and Trails Plan is intended to provide guidance to the City
for continued development and improvements of the City's park, trail and walkway
system. The park facilities plan provides lists of improvements for the existing parks
and identifies recreational facilities that could be added throughout the community.
The trail portion of the plan indicates components that can be made to increase
connections with neighboring cities and provides an overall plan for off-street and on -
street trails that will connect all parts of the City. The trail system should not only
ensure public access to community amenities but will also provide recreational
opportunities for all age groups and safer access throughout the City. The trail system,
in connection with regional and local trail systems that are in place or planned, could be
used as a marketing tool for the community as well as to bring visitors to Oak Park
Heights.
The Parks and Trails Plan is based
Inventory, Issues Identification, and
following paragraphs detail the park,
pursue in the next 10 years.
PARK FACILITIES
Valley View
upon information gathered and analyzed in the
Goals and Policies sections of the Alan. The
trail and walkway plans for the community to
Valley View ParK is valued for its dense vegetation, variation in topography, and
wetlands. The plan proposes to maintain and enhance the natural aesthetics of the
park. Improvements to the park focus on making the park more visible in the
community and St. Croix Valley, more accessible, and as a continued resource for
environmental education.
The proposed improvements to the park will maintain and update the facilities that are
already present. Currently, many people are unaware of the lower portion of the park
due to lack of signage and the physical separation from the upper portion of the park.
A list of potential improvements to Valley View Park is as follows. A map of the
improvements is found on a following page.
1. Replace the easement trail from Ozark Avenue.
2. Make building improvements to park shelter such as providing a deck on the east
side, extension to north side, installing gutters, and adding electrical outlets.
3. Provide trail connections to the east of the park shelter.
4. Provide trail connections to the north of the park shelter, across the ravine.
Com ehensive Plan 2018
City of Oak Park Heights Page 158
PARKS AND TRAILS PLAN
5. Remove buckthorn from the easterly wooded area.
6. Work with Washington County on providing a pedestrian tunnel under Osgood
Avenue to provide access from Brekke Park to the entrance of Valley View Park.
7. Provide signage to create a better understanding of the amenities of the park,
especially the environmental features, and how to access them.
Brekke Park
Brekke Park is used extensively for field games and as a playground for toddler age and
older children. The proposed plan proposes maintenance and minor improvements to
the existing park. Previous park plans included proposals for expansion of passive and
active recreational uses on the DNR managed land south of the park. If the land
becomes available for purchase, the City would consider acquiring it for recreational
open space uses.
The map on a following page indicates the planned improvements. A summary of the
improvements is as follows:
1. Study potential improvements to the existing picnic shelter.
2. Replace hockey boards
3. Work with Washington County on construction of a pedestrian tunnel under Osgood
Avenue to provide safe access from Brekke Park to Valley View Park and the
neighborhoods to the east.
4. Improve and update play equipment as needed.
5. Provide a connecting trail behind the baseball fields through the wildlife
management area.
6. Replace easement trail and fence off 55th Street
7. Consider a trail with an east/west orientation along the existing parking lot and
edge of the park to provide a connection to the upper playground.
8. Consider purchase, if available for sale, of the DNR managed property to the south
of Brekke Park.
Swager Park
Swager Park serves as a linear neighborhood playground along a trail that is within an
Xcel power line easement. The trail is now completed from Oldfield Avenue to the
Anderson office building parking lot.
Overall the main objective for this park is to keep it well maintained and serve the
surrounding neighborhood. The City has considered a permanent restroom structure in
the park but will continue with placement of portable toilets for the foreseeable future.
Adding more trees, prairie grass plantings, and improved fencing/screening for the
adjacent neighborhoods is also a priority.
Comprehensive Plan 2018
City of Oak Park Heights Page 159
PARKS AND TRAILS PLAN
The map on a following page indicates the proposed improvements. A summary of
those improvements is found as follows:
1. Consider the park as a linear park segment within the trail system, rather than a
destination.
2. Provide more benches and picnic tables in the park.
3. Develop a landscape plan that provides additional trees and shrubs in the
developed park area.
4. Work with Xcel on planting prairie grass in that area north of City Hall.
5. Provide exercise stations along the trail.
6. Provide fence/landscaping as a screen along the northern boundary of the park.
7. Consider eventual removal and possible replacement of the fence as needed along
the south boundary of the park. The neighborhood shall be involved.
8. Provide lighting along the trail at the crosswalk at Oldfield Avenue.
9. Add water service with water fountain and hydrant.
10. The City would require park land dedication for the potential redevelopment area
north of Swager Park.
Cover Park
Cover Park is the smallest park in the City and provides an active area for residents in
the surrounding neighborhood. Improvements to the park were competed in 2017 that
included a year-round park shelter/warming house for the hockey rink and covered
picnic area. The parking was moved to the north side of the park adjacent to the new
park shelter. Due to the proximity of Oak Park Crossing Park, trail connections were
also provided to provide access between the two parks.
The map on a following page indicates the limited planned improvements considering
the recent upgrade of facilities. A listing of these improvements is as follows:
1. Monitor maintenance and improvements to new park shelter including installing
gutters.
2. Maintain/improve perennial planting slope.
Autumn Hills Park and Haase Recreational Area
Autumn Hills Park and Haase Recreational Area serve as a neighborhood park and
open space that is surrounded by the Boutwells Landing senior community. With
completion of the new park shelter and restrooms in 2007, much of the major
improvements are completed at this park. The City has identified additional projects to
complete the park and to provide recreational programs and cross utilization of the
facilities at Boutwells Landing.
Comprehensive Plan 2018
-' City of Oak Park Heights Page 160
PARKS AND TRAILS PLAN
The map on a following page indicates the planned improvements. A listing of these
improvements is as follows:
1. Monitor condition of playground equipment and replace as necessary.
2. Monitor condition of picnic tables and benches and replace as necessary.
3. Provide additional tree plantings within the park and replace ash trees.
4. Provide no smoking signs by playground.
5. Add bike racks near the park shelter.
6. Provide connections to the Boutwells Historic Village area to the south of the park
and explore programs and cross -utilization of both facilities.
Oak Park Crossing Park
The area directly to the north of Valley View ParK and south of Highway 36 contains
Oak Park Crossings Park. This park area was developed on the former Allan S. King
ash disposal facility. A parking lot has been constructed to provide access and the
park has been provided with a playground, park shelters, walking trails and prairie grass
plantings. The system of trails connects the open area with the neighborhoods to the
west, Valley View Park to the south, and to Cover Park and the neighborhoods to the
east. A major goal within this park is to provide a trail connection along the eastern
border of Perro Pond.
The map on a following page indicates the planned improvements. A listing of these
improvements is as follows
1. Include exercise equipment along trail system.
2. Determine if water fountains can be added.
3. Provide a trail connection along the eastern border of Perro Pond.
4. Add a swing set near the playground area.
5. Add picnic tables within picnic shelters.
REGIONAL PARKS AND TRAILS
The map on a following page indicates the regional park and trail systems in the St.
Croix Valley near Oak Park Heights. The City will work with Washington County,
adjoining cities and townships in providing an interconnected system.
The Loop Trail is a 4.7 -mile bicycle and pedestrian trail that is part of the St. Croix River
Crossing project. With the completion of the St. Croix Crossing Bridge in August 2017,
vehicle traffic was re-routed onto the new bridge and the existing Stillwater Lift Bridge
will be converted to a bicycle and pedestrian facility. The Loop Trail will cross the St.
Croix River at the Stillwater Lift Bridge and on the new St. Croix Crossing bridge. Trails
Comprehensive Plan 2018
` City of Oak Park Heights Page 161
PARKS AND TRAILS PLAN
in Minnesota and Wisconsin will complete the loop and will connect to regional and local
trail systems. The Lift Bridge will still accommodate boat navigation with lifts.
The Loop Trail consists of a number of segments that will be completed by 2019. The
main portion of the Minnesota and Wisconsin Loop Trail was constructed in 2015 and
2016. Construction of the remaining portions of the Loop Trail will occur in 2018 and
2019, with only the Lift Bridge portion remaining incomplete until 2019. By summer of
2019, the Loop Trail is expected to be fully operational.
TRAILS
The Proposed Parks and Trails Map has been created as part of the update to the
Comprehensive Park and Trail System Plan and is found on a following page. The
Issues Identification process indicated that there is a strong desire to continue the
interconnection of neighborhoods, schools, commercial areas, public facilities, and
parks. City staff has indicated that trails will be added as part of any City street projects,
where possible, and as part of new and redeveloped commercial projects. The City will
also work with Washington County on roadway upgrade projects, especially as it relates
to providing trail connections.
The trail plan will provide for the interconnection of neighborhoods, parks, schools and
commercial areas. Emphasis shall be placed on a trail system that connects all areas
of the community and interconnects to regional trail systems. The map on a following
page indicates the existing and proposed trail system that includes both on -street and
separated segments.
Development of a comprehensive bicycle and pedestrian trail system plan as part of a
park and trail system plan for the community should incorporate the following:
1. Include trail routes within and interconnections to the areas planned for
annexation.
2. Connections to and linking neighborhoods with the commercial and industrial/
business park areas of the City.
3. Trail routes along major streets that have the most direct access to primary
pedestrian destinations.
4. Where trails will connect neighborhoods to schools.
5. Where trails will serve commuter destinations.
6. Where trails lead to parks, playfields and other recreational facilities.
7. Where trails will link together separate portions of the sidewalks and trail systems
with each other.
8. Where trails provide access to future regional trails.
t,
Comprehensive Plan 2018
:� ' City of Oak Park Heights Page 162
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