HomeMy WebLinkAbout12-11-2008 Planning Commission Meeting Packet FIDE
COPY
• CITY OF OAK PARK HEIGHTS
PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING AGENDA
Thursday, December 11, 2008
5:30 P.M — City Hall Council Chambers
I. Call to Order /Approval of Agenda:
II. Adjourn to Worksession — Planning Commission Vacancy Interviews:
III. Reconvene Regular Meeting:
A. Commission Appointment Recommendation Discuss and make
recommendation of appointment to Commission vacancy for a term
commencing January 2009 and culminating May 31, 2012 (Uncompleted Runk
term to 5 -31 -09 plus 3 -year term.)
IV. Approve Minutes of October 9, 2008: (1)
V. Department / Commission Liaison / Other Reports:
VI. Visitors /Public Comment: This is an opportunity for the public to address the Commission
. with questions or concerns regarding items not on the agenda.
Please limit comments to three minutes.
VII. Public Hearings:
A. Continued - Xcel Energy. Inc. to consider request for Conditional Use Permit
Amendment to allow vertical expansion of the A.S. King Fly Ash Disposal site,
known as the Moelter Fly Ash Site, located S. of Hwy. 36 and W. of Beach Rd. (2)
Note: Xcel Energy has withdrawn their application per their attached letter of
December 2, 2008.
B. 2008 Comprehensive Plan Update Consider approval of the updated
2008 City of Oak Park Heights Comprehensive Plan (3)
IX. New Business:
X. Old Business:
XI. Informational:
A. Upcoming Meetings
January 8, 2009: 7:00 p.m. - Regular Planning Commission Meeting
(Council Chambers)
• B. Council Representative December — Vice Chair Wasescha
January — Commissioner LeRoux
XII. Adjournment.
p l-
City of Oak Park Heights
Memo
To: Planning Commission
From: Julie A. Hultman, Planning & Code Enforcement Officer
Date: December 4, 2008
Re: Commission Applicant Interviews — December 11, 2008 @ 5:45 p.m.
We have received five applications for the vacancy created with the departure of Commissioner
Runk to the City Council. I have coordinated interviews to commence at 5:45 p.m. and run in 10
min. increments. Note that the Planning Commission meeting will actually begin at 5:30 p.m.
Chair Liljegren will open the meeting and immediately adjourn to the interview work session so that
you may conduct the interviews and make a recommendation at the December 11, 2008 meeting,
after you reconvene from the work session.
All applicants have been spoken with directly to confirm their interview time and have received the
December Planning Commission meeting packet.
Attached to this memo, you will find the applications for Jennifer Bye, Chuck Dougherty, Daniel
Eder, Martin Hauble and Guy Sederski.
If anyone is unable to attend this meeting and/or the interview session, please contact me or City
Administrator Johnson at 651.439.4439 as soon as absolutely possible.
Thanks!
Interview Schedule
5:45 p.m. Guy Sederski
5:55 p.m. Daniel Eder
6:05 p.m. Jennifer Bye
6:15 p.m. Martin Hauble
6:25 p.m. Chuck Dougherty
1
ENCLOSURE
CITY OF OAK PARK HEIGHTS
•
PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES
Thursday, October 9, 2008
Call to Order:
Chair Liljegren called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. Present: Vice -Chair Wasescha and
Commissioners LeRoux, Powell and Runk; City Administrator Johnson, City Planner Richards
and Commission Liaison Abrahamson.
Agenda Approval:
Commissioner Runk, seconded by Commissioner LeRoux, moved to approve the Agenda as
presented. Carried 5 — 0.
Approve Minutes of September 11, 2008:
Vice Chair Wasescha, seconded by Commissioner LeRoux, moved to approve the Minutes as
presented. Carried 5 — 0.
• Department /Commission Liaison & Other Reports:
Council Liaison Abrahamson and City Administrator Johnson informed the Commission of
Architect Randy Engle visiting the City Council meeting recently relating to the City Hall building
project and updated them as to the activities on this end to date. Rough dates for the process
were noted as having bids out in January, the opened in February and potentially occupancy at
the end of 2009. It was noted that once a concept building plan has been approved an open
house would be held.
Visitors /Public Comment: None.
Public Hearings:
A. Continued to September 11, 2008 - Xcel Energy, Inc. Conditional Use Permit
Amendment to allow vertical expansion of the A.S. King Fly Ash Disposal site, known as
the Moelter Fly Ash Site, located S. of Hwy. 36 and W. of Beach Rd.
City Planner Richards noted that no new information had been received from the applicant and
that information was anticipated for the public hearing to be continued at the November
Planning Commission meeting. It was noted that property owners will be notified by mail
• when it is known that the matter will be on the Agenda for hearing.
Planning Commission Minutes
October 9, 2008
Page 2 of 6
•
B. Stillwater Crossing : To consider request for Site Plan Review, Design Guidelines Review
and Planned Unit Development Amendment to allow a drive through Snyder's Drug
prescription window at the south side of the building, located west of Osgood Ave. N.
and within the Stillwater Crossing retail center.
City Planner Richards reviewed the Planning Report to the request, provided an issue analysis,
as well as recommend conditions for consideration as part of any approval the Commission
may recommend to the City Council
Chair Liljegren opened the hearing for public comment.
Dave Leonard, Vice President Real Estate /Store Development for Snyders Drug Stores introduced
himself and made addressed questions related to vehicle stacking at the drive - through window
and its location.
City Administrator Johnson discussed boulder placement, landscaping at the site and vehicle
barrier at the curb of the site.
Commissioner Runk, seconded by Chair Liljegren moved to close the public hearing. Carried 5 — 0.
Commissioner Runk, seconded by Commissioner Powell, moved to recommend City Council •
approve the request, subject to the following conditions:
1. A curb island be placed extending west from the building to allow for at least one stacking
space.
2. The use of outdoor lighting for parking lots serving commercial and industrial businesses
shall be turned off one hour after closing, except for approved security.lighting.
3. The pharmacy drive - through sign on the canopy is permissible but cannot be back lit.
4. Signs in the B -2 District may only be illuminated during business hours, or until 11:00 PM,
whichever is later.
5. The applicant shall provide a plan for landscaping and providing an effective barrier system
for vehicles that jump the curb at the shopping center entrance off of Osgood Avenue. The
plan shall be subject to review and approval of City staff.
Carried 5 — 0. f
i
Planning Commission Minutes
October 9, 2008
Page 3 of 6
•
C. M & I Bank To consider requests for Site Plan Review, Design Guidelines Review and
Signage Variance to allow a third wall sign for proposed M & I Bank construction located
at 60 St. N. and E. of Jerry's Auto Body.
City Planner Richards reviewed the October 3, 2008 Planning Report to the request, provided
an issue analysis, as well as recommend conditions for consideration as part of any approval
the Commission may recommend to the City Council
Chair Liljegren opened the hearing for public comment.
Sean Lathrop of KKE Architects, representing M & I Bank, introduced himself to the
Commission and addressed questions related to the signage and lighting for the site.
Jerry Schoenecker of Jerry's Auto Body and neighbor to the project site address the
Commission and inquired as to setbacks and the proposed retaining wall at the site, noting the
elevation differences between his property and the applicant's property.
Mark Anderson of MFRA, Civil Engineers for the project, introduced himself to the Commission
and discussed sites grading plan, retaining wall and drainage plan.
Chair Liljegren, seconded by Commissioner Powell, moved to close the public hearing. Carried 5
—0.
Discussion ensued as to the sites grading, signage, lighting and the recommended conditions
within the planning report.
Commissioner Runk, seconded by Commissioner LeRoux, moved to recommend City Council
approval of the request, subject to the amended conditions of the planning report, specifically:
1. The site plan (C- 3.01A) indicates the first drive -in unit has 174 feet of stacking, and the
second drive -in unit has 198 feet of stacking. There is no indication of the stacking space
for the third drive -in unit. Clarification should be made regarding the stacking space.
2. The stall depth and aisle width do not meet the minimum requirements for parking stalls
that are at a 60 degree angle and 9 feet, 6 inches wide. Adjustments shall be made to the
parking area in order to meet the Ordinance requirements.
3. The applicants shall provide a connection from the trail to the site /building.
4. A revised Photometric Plan shall be submitted that indicates the foot candle readings to
• the center line of 60 Street North to determine that the intensity requirements are met.
Planning Commission Minutes
October 9, 2008
Page 4 of 6
5. Outdoor lighting for the parking areas shall be turned off one hour after closing, except for •
approved security lighting.
6. The Landscape Plan shall be subject to the review and approval of the City Arborist.
7. The applicant shall provide additional information on the two non - cutoff decorative
fixtures, including light intensity, for City Council review.
8. The additional freestanding monument sign — "M & I Bank — Drive -Up Banking ATM" is not
allowed in that additional freestanding sign requirements are not met (i.e., the gross area
of the signs, when added together with all other freestanding and wall sign area, exceeds
the maximum allowable sign area established for the lot).
9. The Ordinance only allows two direction signs that do not count towards the maximum
allowable sign area as long as they do not exceed twelve square feet. Therefore only two
of the four proposed directional signs shall be allowed.
10. The Grading, Drainage, and Erosion Control Plan shall be subject to the review and
approval by the City Engineer.
11. The applicant shall bury the overhead distribution lines along 60 Street North. The timing •
of that improvement shall be coordinated with the burying of distribution lines in front of
Lowe's along 60 Street North. The applicant shall escrow sufficient funds, as specified by
the City Engineer, to complete the improvement or agree that the City will complete the
work and petition for the public improvement, waiving notice of public hearing and
assessments, as required under Minnesota Statute 429.
D. Special Event Signage To consider amendment to Zoning Ordinance 401.15.G. as it
relates to special event signage, including potential increase to number of events and
duration.
City Planner Richards reviewed the Planning Commission discussion from September 11, 2008
on the issue and noted the proposed revised language amendment is a result of that
discussion. Richards noted that the change essentially increased the number of events from
three to five and left the total duration of event days at 30 days per calendar year.
Noting there were no visitors to the meeting in the audience, Chair Liljegren opened the public
hearing and stated for the record that written comments had been received from D.J. Raduenz
of Stillwater Motors, Ann Whitcomb of Little Victories Child Care and Gloria WahrenBrock of
Massage Envy.
Administrator Johnson noted that notices of the hearing were mailed to every business within
the City. Discussion ensued as the intent of the amendment to allow greater flexibility for •
businesses, how the ordinance compares to those in other communities and the special event
permit requirement being for each event held.
Planning Commission Minutes
October 9, 2008
Page 5 of 6
• Commissioner LeRoux, seconded by Chair Liljegren, moved to recommend the City Council
approve amendment of Zoning Ordinance section 401.15.G.8, Special Events to allow more
flexibility in allowing special events, specifically to expand the number of special events
allowed in a calendar year, and specifically amending section 8.b or Zoning Ordinance
401.15.G. as follows:
Number of Events. The business or applicant in all business and industrial zoning districts,
as well as each public and institutional use in residential districts, shall be allowed five (5)
special events per calendar year. The total number of special event days in a calendar year
shall not exceed thirty (30) days for any applicant, business, or public and institutional use.
Once the time period has expired for a special event the applicant shall wait the same
number of days that the sign permit was issued to start a new special event.
Carried 5 — 0.
E. Accessory Buildings To consider amendment to Zoning Ordinance 401.15.D. as it relates
to accessory buildings, uses and equipment.
City Planner Richards reviewed the Planning Commission discussion from September 11, 2008
on the issue and noted the proposed revised language amendment is a result of that
• discussion. He noted that the amendment offers flexibility to the provisions related to
accessory buildings such as their location, setbacks, height, lot coverage and number through a
conditional use permit versus a variance.
At this time, he advised the Commission that if they found the language acceptable, they
would need to make a recommendation to the City Council for approval.
Chair Liljegren opened the hearing for public comment. There being no visitors, Commissioner
Runk, seconded by Commissioner LeRoux moved to close the public hearing. Carried 5 — 0.
Commissioner Runk, seconded by Commissioner LeRoux, moved to recommend the City
Council approve amendment of Zoning Ordinance section 401.15.D, Accessory Buildings, Uses
and Equipment to allow certain provisions of the section to be varied by conditional use permit
as presented by City Planner Richards.
Carried 5 — 0.
New Business: None.
Old Business: None.
•
Planning Commission Minutes
October 9, 2008
Page 6 of 6
Informational: •
A. Upcoming Meetings
November 13, 2008: 7:00 p.m. — Regular Planning Commission Meeting
(Council Chambers)
B. Council Representative October — Commissioner Powell
November —Chair Liljegren
Adjournment: Commissioner Powell, seconded by Commissioner LeRoux, moved to
adjourn the meeting at 8:10 p.m. Carried 5 — 0.
Respectfully submitted,
Julie A. Hultman
Planning & Code Enforcement Officer
I
•
i
I
l
I
Approved by the Planning Commission: • f`
® FNCL.OSURE 2
Xcel Ener
9'Y
f 414 Nicollet Mall
Mianeapolis, Minnesota 55401 -1993
e7
December 2, 2008
Eric A. Johnson
City Administrator
14168 Oak Park Blvd N.
Oak Park Heights
Re: Xcel Energy's King Ash Disposal Facility
Dear Mr Johnson:
Xcel Energy is formally withdrawing its application for an amended CUP which would allow for
the expansion of the A.S. King Ash Disposal Facility, commonly referred to as the Moelter Pit.
Xcel Energy will continue to operate the facility under the requirements specified in the existing
CUP and solid waste permits. Xcel Energy has repeatedly stated that the expansion served as
• a safety net while we explored alternatives. At this time, Xcel Energy is confident in projected
ash utilization projects to the extent we cannot justify expansion costs.
I believe the numerous discussions we have had with you, your staff and the public have been
beneficial. We will be incorporating several changes into our O &M plan to minimize our
impacts upon the community.
Please call me (612- 330 -6082) if you have questions.
Sincerely
-
Chuck Donkers
Env Analyst
I
cc Scott Richards NAC
Jeff Travis Washington Co
Bob Criswell MPCA
Mary Smith Xcel Energy
John Wertish Xcel Energy j
ES Rec Ctr Xcel Energy
•
K
NORTHWEST ASSOCIATED CONSULTANTS, INC.
• 4800 Olson Memorial Highway, Suite 202, Golden Valley, MN 55422
Telephone: 763.231.2555 Facsimile: 763.231.2561 planners @nacplanning.com
ENCLOSURE
MEMORANDUM
TO: Eric Johnson
FROM: Scott Richards
DATE: December 3, 2008
RE: Oak Park Heights Comprehensive Plan — December 11, 2008
Comprehensive Plan Public Hearing
FILE NO: 798.04 — 08.05
The Planning Commission will hold a Comprehensive Plan public hearing at 7:00 PM on
December 11, 2008. City staff will make a presentation, followed by public comments,
and finally discussion by the Planning Commission. It is expected that the Planning
• Commission will make a final recommendation on the Comprehensive Plan at this
meeting. The City Council will consider the plan at its December 23, 2008 meeting.
This is the second public hearing to be conducted by the Planning Commission. The
first was held on April 10, 2008. The City Council then authorized the plan to be sent to
adjoining jurisdictions, affected agencies, and to the Metropolitan Council for an initial
review. The jurisdictions and agencies were given six months to complete their review
and that timeline has now ended. Written comments were received from Baytown
Township, Metropolitan Council, Valley Branch Watershed District, and Washington
County. Copies of the letters are attached.
A summary of the changes, based upon the comments received from the jurisdictions
and agencies, is as follows. Please bring your Comprehensive Plan book to the
meeting and insert the revised pages and maps as attached.
Page 40 — References were added for ground water, surface water resources as
recommended by Washington County.
Page 66 — A policy was added related to ground water resources under Wetlands,
Lakes, Streams and Ground Water as recommended by Washington County.
Pages 67 and 68 — Two policies were added related to ground water monitoring under
• the heading Air Quality and Pollution as recommended by Washington County.
Page 78 — The Population, Households and Employment Projections table was updated •
with lower employment numbers recommended by the Metropolitan Council.
I. Pages 80 and 83 — The text under the heading to Annexation was updated to reflect the
map on page 81.
Page 85 — Language under the heading Livable Communities was updated to reflect
text recommended by the Metropolitan Council.
Pages 87 and 88 — A new section was added titled Projected Land Use Acreage and
Residential Density with a table detailing land use utilization to 2030. This is required
by the Metropolitan Council.
Page 91 — Clarification of the text in the Introduction was suggested by Washington
County.
Page 93 — Clarifications were made related to arterial roadways under the heading
Minor Arterials as suggested by Washington County.
Page 97 — The map was amended to add the category Minor Arterial Connection for
State Highway 95 as suggested by Washington County.
Page 99 — Under the heading Traffic Volumes, the language was changed to reflect that •
the forecasted numbers that take into account construction of the St. Croix River
Crossing and improvements to Highway 36.
Page 99 — Under the heading Improvement Plans — County, the planned trail
improvements for Osgood was added as suggested by Washington County.
Page 101 — The map on page 101 was corrected with the forecasted numbers reflecting
construction of the St. Croix River Crossing and improvements to Highway 36.
Page 112 — In Goal 3, Policy E, references to drivers, pedestrians and bicyclists was
added as suggested by Washington County.
Page 115 — The map was amended to add the category Minor Arterial Connections for
State Highway 95 as suggested by Washington County.
Page 117 — The table related to access spacing guidelines was changed to the
Washington County standards.
Page 122 — Under the heading Bus/Transit Service, clarification was made to transit
service as recommended by the Metropolitan Council.
Page 148 — Under Goal 2, Policy C, language was added that the City would work with •
Washington County and adjoining jurisdictions on providing trail connections.
2
• Page 153 — The map was clarified to indicate that Regional Trails represent both
existing and planned routes.
Page 183 — Appendix A was added that includes the City of Oak Park Heights x
Anticipated Capital Improvement Program.
Comments were also received on the Local Surface Water Management Plan, the
Water Supply and Distribution Plan, and the Comprehensive Sewer Plan. These plans
were completed by Bonestroo, the City Engineer. Changes to these plans will be made
to conform to Metropolitan Council comments.
•
•
3
Baurtown.
• L � J
4220 Osgood Avenue North, Stillwater, Minnesota 55082 f
Phone: (651) 430 -4992 . Fax: (651) 430 -4986
Email: baytowncf @comcast.net
September 15, 2008
Mr. Scott Richards, Planner
Northwest Associated Consultants, Inc.
c/o City of Oak Park Heights
4800 Olson Memorial Highway, Suite 202
Golden Valley, Minnesota 55422
Re: Response to Oak Park Heights (OPH) 2030 Comprehensive Plan Update
Dear Mr. Richards:
Baytown Township has received the City of Oak Park Heights' (OPH) 2030 Comprehensive Plan Update
for review and comment as a neighboring community and potentially affected jurisdiction. The Township
has reviewed this document and has several comments on the Plan.
Annexation. Baytown shares borders with the City of Bayport and the City of Oak Park Heights. The
• boundary with Bayport has been amended several times by agreement and in other instances both sewer
and water services have been extended into the Town through Joint Powers Agreements to allow urban
development of areas that remain in the Town. The Bayport border is a model of cooperation and good
will. The border with OPH has historically been a contentious issue. In the past, OPH has preferred to
litigate rather than cooperate. This attitude still appears in the Plan as found in the OPH policy that allows
extension of municipal services only to areas that are within the City. The Township would prefer to see
the relationship between the communities resemble that of the Bayport/Baytown border.
The OPH Plan identifies approximately 270 acres of Township land as potential areas of annexation. This
includes several private property owners and the State -owned DNR Wildlife Management Area. Planning
efforts have been in process for many years for development of the privately owned areas, such as the
Keefer property, and Baytown will oppose any attempts to annex land within Township borders.
DNR Land OPH has been coveting the DNR land since the land was first set aside in the 1970's. In 1982,
without discussion with the Town, OPH petitioned the Minnesota Municipal Board (MMB) for
Annexation of this DNR land to the City. On January 7, 1983, the MMB denied the Annexation by their
unanimous vote. The MMB concluded that if the property was to remain open and undeveloped it should
remain in the Town.
The City states that their interest in the property would be to "maintain it as open/natural area with limited
recreational and trail access." The City later contradicts this purpose by indicating that the WMA
"provides potential linkages between neighborhoods and existing City plans." Neighborhood connections
and excessive trail development within a WMA is inconsistent with the definition of a WMA and the
statutorily intended purpose of those state lands. By definition, WMAs are intended to preserve and
• enhance wildlife habitat, provide public hunting/recreation, and protect natural resources. It is apparent
An Employee Owned Company Promoting Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity
Mr. Scott Richards i
c/o City of Oak Park Heights
Response to Comprehensive Plan Update
September 15, 2008
Page 2 •
that the City desires the land for future development. As the MMB previously concluded, this property is
better suited to remain in Baytown Township to ensure that it remains undeveloped and continues to be
used as an important public resource. While the DNR land is clearly part of the City's annexation plans,
they have neglected to identify the DNR land as a potential annexation area on any of its maps.
Annexation Policy. If the Services Policy holds that services will only be extended to property within the
City, then the Services Policy sets the Annexation Policy. It is the source of strained relationships with the
Town, since on the one hand the City acknowledges that efforts should be made to improve the
relationship, and then several pages later states that no services will be extended to property within the
Town. OPH is saying that they would like to improve the relationship, but that the most stressful aspect of
the relationship will not be discussed.
Orderly Annexation is a viable option if the communities trust one another enough to negotiate an
agreement that benefits both. The relationship with OPH has historically been so strained that discussions
on the subject have never taken place. This simple fact stresses that the situation on the ground is in sharp
contrast to the statements regarding cooperation within the plan.
These comments summarize Baytown's review of Oak Park Heights Comprehensive Plan Update.
"dfi6 nard,
n Board Chair on behalf of the Baytown Township Board Members
Mike Amundsorf, Town Supervisor
Ron Fredkove, Town Supervisor
Robert Kroening, Town Supervisor
William Nelson, Town Supervisor
cc: Connie Fredkove, Town Clerk
Dave Magnuson, Town Attorney
Angela R. Torres, Town Planner
Ann Pung - Terwedo, Washington County
Dennis O'Donnell, Washington County
Gary Kriesel, Washington County Commissioner District 3 Representative
Mark Holsten, DNR Commissioner
LisaBeth Barajas, Metropolitan Council Sector Representative
Sherry Broecker, Metropolitan Council District 12 Representative
Julie Bunn, Minnesota State Representative
Kathy Saltzman, Minnesota State Senator
Valley Senior Services Alliance, Property Owners
William and Mary Keefer, Property Owners
Eric Johnson, OPH City Administrator
OPH Mayor and City Council Members
•
Page 1 of 1
Scott Richards
From: 'Barth, Robert R" <Bob.Barth @bonestroo.com>
To: <srichards @nacplanning.com>
Cc: "Postler, Dennis M" <Dennis.Postler @bonestroo.com>
Sent: Thursday, December 11, 2008 7:51 AM
Attach: Revised _Pages OPH_CSP_12- 12- 08.pdf
Subject: Revised sewer plan pages
Scott,
Attached you will find revised pages addressing comments on Oak Park Heights sewer plan.
In the packet of comments I have received there are a couple related to potential revisions in the LSWMP. I would like to offer
the following in regard to these:
Washington County
Page 4 and 5 of the Washington County letter offers 6 comments related to Water Resources and the Oak Park Heights
Comprehensive Plan. In actuality only the first three pertain to surface water resources (the subject of the separate Oak Park
Heights Local Surface Water Management Plan ( LSWMP)). Depending on how you would like to generally address these three I
would like to replicate your discussion in the revised LSWMP.
Metropolitan Council
Metropolitan Council has already reviewed the LSWMP and offered their comments to the watersheds. I have now received the
watershed comments and will begin addressing these over the next couple weeks. Consider the additional comments offered on
surface water management by Metropolitan Council to be exactly as they state them to be: recommendations. If a similar theme
comes out of the three sets of watershed comments we will address these items in response to the watersheds. In terms of
Metropolitan Council's continuing role in review of the LSWMP: they have had their statutorily required review and have found the
Oak Park Heights LSWMP in conformance with their own policy documents. All Oak Park Heights owes Metropolitan Council at
this point it to get watershed approval of the LSWMP, get the City Council to adopt the LSWMP, and then send a single, final copy
of the LSWMP to Metropolitan Council staff.
Bob Barth
Principal
Tel 651 - 6044740
Cell 651- 775 -5626
bob.barth @bonestroo.com
Bonestroo
2335 Highway 36 W
St. Paul, MN 55113
Tel 651- 636 -4600
Fax 651 -636 -1311
www.bwestrw.com
CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: The information contained in this e-mail communication and any attached documentation may be privileged, confidential or otherwise
protected from disclosure and is intended only for the use of the designated recipient(s). It is not intended for transmission to, or receipt by, any unauthorized
person. The use, distribution, transmittal or re- transmittal by an unintended recipient of this communication is strictly prohibited without our express approval in
writing or by e-mail. If you are not the intended recipient of this e-mail, please delete it from your system without copying It and notify the above sender so that
our e-mail address may be corrected. Receipt by anyone other than the intended recipient is not a waiver of any attorney- client or work - product privilege.
12/11/2008
Table 2.3 presents the City's own wastewater flow projections.
Table 2.3
Oak Park Heights Wastewater Flow Projection
Year: ++. 1 2010 2015 2020 20977n030
Sewered Population 4,831 5,500 5,550 5,49A 5,650 5,700 _ _ - J Deleted: 600
Sewered Employment 3,042 3,900 4,200 4,500 4,800 5,100
Average Annual Wastewater Flow (MGD) 0.60 0.69 0.70 0. 56A 0.73 0.75 _ - Deleted: 72
Peak Flow Factor 3.4 3.3 3.3 3.3 3.3 3.3
Peak Flow (MGD) 2.0 2.3 2.3 2.1 2.4 2.5 , - Deleted: 4
These are very similar to the Metropolitan Council's except that they show increasing flows with increasing
population and employment.
The Metropolitan Council requests that cities break their projected flow down by metershed and by major
connection points to the interceptor. Table 2.4 presents Oak Park Heights' flow at major connection points
to the interceptor.
Table 2.4
Average Wastewater Flow Projections by Major Connection Point
GD)IM
Current 0.57 073 0.60
2010 0.66 0.033 0.69
2015 0.67 0.033 0.70
2020 0.61 0.05 0.6 - - Deleted: 7
2025 0.67 0.060 0.73 Deleted:5
2030 0.69 0.060 0.75 Deleted: 72
Currently, all wastewater collected in the City is conveyed to the St. Croix Valley Wastewater Treatment
Plant via the MCES Stillwater, Bayport, and Oak Park Heights Interceptors. The interceptors run north from
Bayport and south from Stillwater along State Highway 95 to the treatment plant, which is located on the
east side of State Highway 95 at approximately Upper 61 Street North. All wastewater generated by the
City enters the MCES Interceptor at a point near 59` Street North and State Highway 95 and flows north to
the treatment plant. The exceptions to this are Sub - Districts N -1 and N -0 where Sub - District N -1 discharges
into the MCES Interceptor north of the treatment plant and flows south and Sub - District N -0 is the MCES
Treatment Plant Site. The St. Croix River Bridge crossing will entail major utility construction and
reconstruction. As part of that project Sub - District N -5 will be rerouted to node N1.1, eliminating the
existing lift station located at N5LS.
The City's flow projections are based upon review of existing flow at meters M609 and M607 and the projected
new development in sewer Districts W -12 and W -4 as well as a general build out of areas within the existing
City limits. The sewer model spreadsheet contained in Appendices A through D is used for evaluating trunk
conveyance capacities only and is not used directly to forecast flows to the wastewater treatment plant.
QvofOak Park Heights 4
Draft Comprehensive SewerP /an (CSP) 55- 05141 -0
3.5 INFILTRATION /INFLOW IN THE EXISTING SYSTEM
Oak Park Heights and Metropolitan Council Environmental Services have as a primary goal the limitation of
clear water inflow into their respective sanitary sewer systems. Metropolitan Council has adopted an Infiltration
and Inflow (1 /1) policy and implementation strategies to reduce excessive 1/1 from the regional sewer system.
Since 2004, Metropolitan Councl has been notifying municipalities with observed excessive 1 /I. Municipalities
with excessive 1/1 will be required to eliminate this excessive 1/1 over a reasonable time period. Oak Park Heights
has not been identified by Metropolitan Council as a municipality with excessive 1 /I. However, the City does
have an aggressive sewer maintenance program to limit 1/1 and preserve capacity within its system. This
program is described in section 4.2 below.
The City of Oak Park Heights own study has confirmed the absence of�s evere Nproblems within the existing _ _ _ _ - - Deleted: is absent any
sanitary system. The conclusion of the 2002 Wastewater Audit was: "Although 1/1 exists in the Oak Park Heights
sanitary sewer system, the volume is considered to be at an acceptable level." Jn designing Oak Park Height - Deleted: An 1/1 analysis commissioned by
sanitary sewer system, standard amounts of 1/1 can be expected and this is accounted for in the peak flow the City has confirmed this. However,
factors used in sewer pipe design.
As noted e City of Oak Park Heights is not among the communities with observed excess 1 /1. determined - Deleted: T
by the Metropolitan Council,4xcessive 1/1 is defined as 30 gallons per capita per day (gcpd) clear water into the Deleted: , a
sanitary sewer system. Typically, clear water inflow does not occur in the winter, so comparing winter and
Deleted:.
spring /summer average flows gives an indication as to whether clear water infiltration or inflow is an issue.
Table 3.4 compares Oak Park Heights average per capita winter and spring flows. Deleted: E
Table 3.4
Per Capita Flow
Milli •
January 2006 16.4 0.55 4,831 113
May 2006 16.0 0.53 4,831 110
In general, a sewage flow of 100 gcpd and clear water of 15 gpcd (for a total flow of 115 gpcd) is typical of
reasonably "tight" systems. The Oak Park Heights flows presented in Table 3.4 indicates that Oak Park Heights
does not have a significant 1/1 problem.
The City of Oak Park Heights has an aggressive maintenance program for its sanitary sewer. In 2006 over
39,000 of its 123,000 feet of pipe was televised and cleaned. The City has 4 more years to go on a contract to
televise and clean its entire pipe system. When televising or other inspections locate sources of infiltration or
inflow, the City takes steps to rehabilitate these parts of the system. Usually this takes the form of rehabilitating
manholes and sealing manhole covers.
The 1/1 goal established for the City of Oak Park Heights is the allowable peak hourly flow rate as shown in
Table 3.5 and varies based on annual average flow. Allowable peak hourly flows into the future are also
summarized in table 3.5, which derives from Metropolitan Council's Oak Park Height's statement.
City of Oak Park Heights 11
Draft Comprehensive Sewer Plan (CSP) 55- 05141 -0
TABLE 3.5
I AND I GOALS
Average Annual Wastewater
Flow MGD 0.69 0.69
Allowable Peak Hourly Flow
MGD 2.28 2.28 2.34
The table 4.1 flows are not allotments and can be modified by Oak Park Heights through its ular
Comprehensive Plan Updates (of which this Oak Park Heights Comprehensive Sewer Plan is a component) and
through Comprehensive Plan Amendments. Appendix C and D provide peak hourly flow rates for the design
and analysis of Oak Park Heights's trunk system. These design and analysis projections are not to be confused
with actual metered peak flows which will be the ultimate basis upon which attainment of the allowable flows
in table 4.1 are judged.
3.6 LARGE SEWER USERS
There are currently no large sewer users (greater than 50,000 gallons /day) discharging into the City's sanitary
sewer system.
3.7 HYDRAULICS AND PIPE MATERIAL
The trunk sewer system was designed to prevent surcharging and maintain a minimum flow velocity of 2 feet
per second at design flow. The existing and proposed pipe capacities were calculated based on inlet control and
outlet control and are presented in Appendix D.
The use of plastic pipe is recommended for all pipe sizes in normal soil conditions. In unsuitable soils, different
pipe material such as reinforced concrete pipe may be used. Plastic pipe is superior to concrete for the following
reasons:
• First, the joints require less care and form a better seal, reducing 1 /1.
• Second, plastic pipe comes in greater lengths, resulting in fewer joints and fewer opportunities for 1 /1.
• Finally, plastic pipe is lighter, easier to handle, and less expensive to install.
In Oak Park Heights, all pipes are modeled and designed assuming a mannings "n" of 0.013, regardless of the
pipe material. At the time of final design and construction, adjustments in the routing, choice of material, and
size of the trunk facilities can be expected as determined by the particular conditions at that time. In some
cases, the pipe size may be reduced if plastic pipe is chosen over concrete pipe.
Qv of Oak Pal* Heights 12
Draft Comprehensive Sewer Plan (CSP) 55- 05142 -0
• The staff shall evaluate existing data and new televising records to address excess inflow and
infiltration (M) discovered in the system in order to save excess treatment costs from clean water
entering the system for treatment. The City of Oak Park Heights shall implement a plan to address l &l,
if required by MCES.
The planned improvements and expansion are represented in Figure 3. They include the following:
• Extension of a line from Node W11.1 to allow development of sewer District W -12.
• Construction of lift station W4.1 and proposed forcemain connecting at W1.4 to allow development of
sewer District W -4.
• Abandonment of lift station N20LS and its forcemain for a gravity connection to the W4.1 lift station.
• Abandonment of lift station NSLS and its forcemain for a gravity connection to sewer within District N -1.
• Replacing the 8 -inch sewer from N8.3 to N8.2 with a 12 -inch sewer.
• Extension of a line from Node W1.31 to Node W1.4
No other planned upgrades or expansions are foreseen other than periodic replacement of facilities as age
and condition warrant.
Future Trunk Highway 36 improvements and St. Croix River Bridge (SCRB) crossing will significantly affect
the sanitary sewer system. When the projects proceed, plans will be drafted to eliminate lift station NSLS
(see Figure 3) and its forcemain and replace these with a gravity connection to Node N1.1. Other sanitary
sewer could be affected by the SCRB so more sanitary sewer replacements and realignments might occur
with the highway and bridge projects.
Appendix D has, as its final column, a ratio of the projected system design flow to the trunk pipe capacity.
Where these ratios are greater than one, the trunk is large enough to convey the system design flow
without surcharge. In all cases but one, Oak Park Heights system has capacity for the system design flows.
The one case where it does not is from Node N8.3 to N8.2 where the ratio is 0.43 indicating a system
design flow double the pipe's capacity. This pipe will be replaced as noted above. The cost for replacing this
pipe is not included in the overall cost estimate since it will be paid through renewal and replacement fees
and not development fees.
4.3 INTER - COMMUNITY FLOWS
There are no flows from Oak Park Heights into any other community's sanitary sewer system. Flows from a small
area of Stillwater enter the Oak Park Heights system at Nodes N1 8.1 and N 17.1. The average flow from
Stillwater into Oak Park Heights is estimated to be 0.003 MGD.
4.4 INDIVIDUAL SEWAGE TREATMENT SYSTEMS (ISTS)
Within the existing City limits, there are approximately six lots that currently have individual sewage treatment
systems. They are located on the eastern perimeter of Sub - District W -1 along Oakgreen Avenue. This area is
proposed to be served by a future phase of the Oakgreen Village Development. _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ - - - Deleted:
The City of Oak Park Heights is committed to the ongoing maintenance of ISTS within its muncipal limits. - - _ Formatted: space After: 12 pt,
Line spacing: Multiple 1.25 li,
Oak Park Heights has turned over administrative responsibility for septic systems to Washington County due Hyphenate, Don't adjust space
to the small number of systems. The transfer of authority was conducted under the premise that between Latin and Asian text, Tabs:
QV0f0akParkHe1ghts 15
Draft Comprehensive SewerP /an (CSP) 55- 05141 -0
Washington County is better equipped to keep abreast of evolving regulation regarding septic systems. An
electronic copy of the Washington County ordinance in regard to Individual Sewage Treatment Systems can be
found at the following URL: http: / /www.co.washington.mn.us /client files /documents / /ORD- 0128.0 f
4.5 SYSTEM DISCUSSION
NORTHERN SANITARY DISTRICT
The Northern District consists of the original core City of Oak Park Heights. The long -term land use is tabulated
below. A detailed breakdown is provided in Appendix A.
Table 4.1
Northern Sanitary District Land Use
Residential 288
Commercial /Industrial 279
Public/Institutional 225
Parks /Open Space 164
At present, Sub - District N -5 is serviced via lift station N5LS. The future realignment and reconstruction of the
Highway 36 corridor would allow the installation of a gravity sanitary trunk that would cross the corridor and
discharge into the Stillwater Interceptor just north of the MCES Treatment Plant (City trunk node N1.1).
The new gravity connection eliminates the need for lift station N5LS. Existing lift station N20LS serves Sub -
District N -20. When development occurs in Sub - District W -4, west of Sub - District N -20, lift station W4.1 LS will
be constructed. W4.1 will replace N20LS and a gravity trunk from the N20LS location will carry sewage to the
new lift station location.
WESTERN SANITARY DISTRICT
The Western District long -term land use is tabulated below. A detailed breakdown is provided in Appendix A.
Table 4.2
Western Sanitary District Land Use
Residential 172
Commercial /Industrial 347
Public /Institutional 136
Parks /Open Space 30
The majority of the wastewater generated in the Western District, with the exception of Sub - Districts W -1,
W -4, W -3 and approximately one half of W -2, is lifted via W7LS to the east some 2,800 feet and is
discharged into the existing gravity line. Currently, W7LS discharges into a 12" gravity line at Node W2.2.
Sub- Districts W -11 and W -12 are serviced via lift station W11 LS.
A lift station at Node W4.1 has been proposed to service Sub - District W -4 and N -20. This lift station will
pump through a forcemain to Node W1.4 (see Figure 3 Sanitary Sewer System Map). From there, a gravity
line will need to be installed along Oakgreen Avenue to the north to Node W1.31.
C'tyof Oak PaikHeights 16
Draft Comprehensive SewerP /an (CSP) 55- 05142 -0
Metropolitan Council
ii
• July 14, 2008
Scott Richards h
Northwest Associated Consultants, Inc. RECEMI JUL
4800 Olson Memorial Highway, Suite 202 - - -
Golden Valley, MN 55422 --
RE: Informal Review of the Oak Park Heights Draft 2008 Comprehensive Plan Update
Dear Mr. Richards:
Metropolitan Council staff informally reviewed the June 2008 draft of the City of Oak Park Heights 2008
Comprehensive Plan (Update), received on June 6, 2008. In the informal review, staff focused on whether
the draft Update appeared to be complete and to identify any major system issues or policy conflicts.
Time did not permit as thorough a review of all sections of the plan as will occur when the Update is
officially submitted for Council review. Staff offers the following informal review comments. If you have
questions about the staff comments, please contact the individual reviewers as identified.
The informal review process found the following sections complete. for review and did not identify any
system issues or policy conflicts: Aviation, Historic Preservation, Solar Access Protection, and Water
Supply.
Aggregate Resources Protection (Jim Larsen, 651 -602 -1159)
• The Update does not address the presence or absence of aggregate resources in the community. The
Council's aggregate resources inventory does not indicate the presence of aggregate resources
available for mining within the. community. No further response in this area is necessary from the
community.
Aviation (Chauncey Case, 651- 602 - 1.724)
The Update is complete for review and includes an aviation element that is consistent with the
aviation system plan.
Historic Preservation (Lisa Barajas, 651- 602 -1895)
The Metropolitan Land Planning Act (Minn. Stat. 473.859, Subd. 2fbl requires that local land use
plans contain a historic preservation element. The Update appropriately addresses this requirement in
the historic preservation element on page 84 and in the Implementation Section of the Update.
Solar Access Protection (Lisa Barajas, 651- 602 -1895)
The Metropolitan Land Planning Act (Minn. Stat. 473.859, Subd. 2) requires that local
comprehensive plans contain an element for protection and development of access to direct sunlight
for solar energy systems. The Update is complete for review regarding the solar access protection
element and is consistent with Council policy.
Water Supply (Sara Bertelsen, 651- 602 -1035)
The Update appears complete for review and staff has no additional comments at this time.
The following sections of the Update are considered complete, but staff has identified issues that may
require changes. Staff offers the following advisory comments with the sections listed in alphabetical
• order.,
www.metrocouncil.org
390 Robert Street North St. Paul, MN 55101 -1805 • (651) 602 -1000 • Fax (651) 602 -1550 • TTY (651) 291 -0904
An Equal Opportunity Employer
Scott Richards
July 14, 2008
Page 2
Forecasts (Todd Graham, 651- 602 -1322) •
The Update is complete for review, but will need minor revisions to correct internal inconsistencies
regarding the population forecasts and the employment forecasts.
Population Forecasts
The Metropolitan Council has forecasted population to be 5,500 in 2010; 5,400 in 2020; and 5,700 in
2030. The Update uses a different 2020 population forecast (5,600 population in 2020) in the local
surface water plan (Table 2. 1), the water supply plan (Tables 1 and 2), and the sewer plan (Table 2.3).
The inconsistency can be easily corrected by using the Council's System Statement forecasts
throughout, or, by agreement to revise the population forecast and using the revised forecast
throughout the Update.
While there are inconsistencies in the population forecasts, the household forecasts are consistent
with the Council's System Statement forecasts throughout the Update. Council staff recognizes that
the recent growth in Oak Park Heights has been concentrated in senior households and other smaller
size households. As a result, the City is likely to fall short of the forecasted 5,500 people in 2010. The
City can request a downward revision to the population forecast, reducing the population forecasts to
5,100 in 2010; 5,400 in 2020; and 5,700 in 2030. Council staff would support such a request.
Employment Forecasts
According to employment tracking performed by the Minnesota Department of Employment and
Economic Development (DEED), the City's employment was 3,177 jobs in the 2nd Quarter of 2007.
Council staff expects that the 2010 employment will significantly short of the forecast for the City.
The City can request a downward revision of the employment forecast, perhaps reducing the 2010,
2020, and 2030 employment numbers by a few hundreds at each decennial milestone. Council staff
would support such a request. is
Parks (Jan Youngquist, 651- 602 -1029)
The Update appears complete for review purposes and conforms to the Metropolitan Council's 2030
Regional Parks Policy Plan. Council staff suggests the following minor revisions to enhance the
clarity of the Update.
The Washington County Parks, Trails and Open Space Map (page 153) shows the regional and State
parks and trails, as well as bikeways. The regional trail system in Washington County consists of
existing and planned trails. Council staff recommends that the map either make a distinction between
existing and planned regional trails or change the labeling for these trails in the legend to "Regional
Trails (Existing and Planned)."
Transportation (Ann Braden, 651- 602 -1705)
The Update appears to be complete for review, but Council staff offers some advisory comments for
consideration.
Transit (Scott Thompson, 612 -349 -7774)
The Transit section of the Update is complete for review, is in conformance with regional systems,
and is consistent with the Council's transit policies. Council staff offers one minor clarification: On
page 122, under the Bus/Transit Service section, the first paragraph refers to "a potential new park
and ride facility at Highway 36 and Highway 5." As the Comprehensive Plan Transit Map shows, a
park and ride facility currently exists near this intersection at the St. Croix Recreation Center at
Highway 5 and Curve Crest. This park and ride facility is shown in the 2030 Transportation Policy •
Plan as an active park and ride. Metro Transit would prefer to expand this existing park and ride
Scott Richards
July 14, 2008
Page 3
• facility, but a new facility would be acceptable if it cannot be expanded.
TAZ and Functional Classification (Bob Paddock, 651- 602 -1340)
The traffic analysis zone (TAZ) tabulations and the map included in the Plan are consistent with the
2030 Regional Development Framework. The Update designates Highway 95 as an "A Minor
Augmentor," both in the text and on the map (p. 115), while the Council's system classified the
highway as an "A Minor Connector." The Update should be corrected, or the community may request
the change through the TAC- Planning Committee.
A minor item to clarify: On page 93 of the Plan, the text states that "Mn /DOT has specified four
levels of "A" minor arterials," when it is actually the Technical Advisory Committee / Transportation
Advisory Board (TAC/TAB), acting on behalf of the region, which designates the functional
classifications of the roads.
Forecasts (Ann Braden, 651 -1705)
The transportation section should include a statement that briefly describes how the 2030 traffic
forecasts were made. Council staff notes that on page 99, the Update indicates that the forecasted
traffic numbers for 2020 and 2030 indicate a no -build for the St. Croix River Crossing and no major
improvements to the Highway 36 corridor. However, elsewhere the Update acknowledges that the
new river bridge and improvements to TH 36 are included in the 2030 Transportation Policy Plan by
2030. This being the case, the forecasts should be based on a model that is consistent with the
regional 2030 travel demand model, which does include the assumed construction of these projects.
The following sections of the Update are considered incomplete. Changes in the Update are needed
before the Update is submitted to the Council for formal review.
Environment (Jim Larsen, 651- 602 -1159)
One minor addition will render the submission complete in addressing the City's Individual Sewage
Treatment System (ISTS) program. The submission is complete for review regarding the Local
Surface Water Management Plan component.
Individual Sewage Treatment System (ISTS) Program
The Update indicates that there are approximately six (6) households in the City that continue to be
served by ISTS. The City has adopted the Washington County ISTS Code for regulation of
specifications, installation, and maintenance of ISTS. The Washington County ISTS Development
Code Chapter Four is consistent with MPCA Chapter 7080 Rules and with Council policies_
However, it is unclear from the Update whether Washington County carries out inspection and
permitting services for the City. To render the Update complete for review, the City needs to briefly
discuss how its ISTS maintenance management system notifies homeowners about necessary system
maintenance and how their response actions are tracked.
Surface Water Managemen
The City lies within the Middle St. Croix, Valley Branch, and Browns Creek watersheds. The Middle
St. Croix Watershed Management Organization and the Valley Branch Watershed District watershed
management plans were approved by the Board of Water and Soil Resources (BWSR) in 2005. The
Browns Creek Watershed District `third - generation' watershed plan was approved by BWSR in 2007.
• Council staff recently reviewed the City's May 2008 draft Local Surface Water Management Plan
(LSWMP) and found the plan generally consistent with the Council's 2030 Water Resources
Scott Richards
July 14, 2008
Page 4 y
Management Policy Plan, but offers the following two recommendations for incorporation into the •
final LWSMP:
• To better manage surface water runoff as the City redevelops, the City should consider
adopting a standard of retaining and infiltrating the first inch of runoff on -site from new
impervious surfaces.
• Due to the number of total maximum daily load (TMDL) studies underway that could
potentially impact the City, Council staff recommends adoption of updated ordinances to be
able to meet stricter water quality goals through adoption of a local goal of removing twenty
(20) percent of the current phosphorus load to the St. Croix River.
Housing (Linda Milashius, 651- 602 -1541)
The Update is incomplete for review regarding the housing element. The Update needs to
acknowledge the City's share of the region's affordable housing need for the time period from 2011
to 2020, which is 24 affordable units. The following is sample language that the City could use:
The Metropolitan Council has forecasted affordable housing needs for all cities and
townships within the Twin Cities Metropolitan Area for the period from 2011 to 2020.
The housing plan element of the local comprehensive plan is required to reflect the
allocated portion of the forecasted demand for affordable housing. The City share of this
allocation is 24 affordable housing units.
The Update also needs to provide the allowable density ranges for the residential land use categories
indicated on the Proposed Land Use Map. These ranges are needed to confirm that the City has •
designated sufficient developable land (either through vacant land or redevelopment sites) at
appropriate densities to aide in meeting their affordable housing needs number of 24 units.
The City is a participant in the Livable Communities Local Housing Incentives Program, and, as
such, is eligible to apply for funding from the three grant programs created through the Livable
Communities Act. The Update could include the City's participation in the Program as an
implementation tool that will assist the community in financing potential affordable housing
opportunities.
Land Use (Lisa Barajas, 651- 602 -1895)
The Land Use section of the Update is incomplete for review. The 2030 Regional Development
Framework (RDF) designates the City as Developing, which calls for a focus on accommodating
growth, supporting centers along corridors, encouraging connected land use patterns for new
development, and encouraging the development of communities where shopping, jobs, and a variety
of housing choices co -exist by design. The RDF sets an overall density minimum of 3 to 5 units per
acre for Developing communities, with higher densities in locations with convenient access to
transportation corridors and with adequate sewer capacity.
The Update needs to include descriptions of each of the land use categories shown on the Proposed
Land Use Map (page 89) that includes the allowable density range for each of the residential land use
categories. In addition, the Update needs to include a table identifying the acreage of each land use
category in 2010, 2020, and 2030. A template for the City to use can be found online at:
http•// www. metrocouncil .orgiplanning/LPH/forms.htm
•
Scott Richards
July 14, 2008
Page 5
• The Update also needs to show that the City's plan conforms to the region's system plans. To do so,
the land use plan must demonstrate that residential development will occur at appropriate densities to
accommodate the forecasted growth and to be consistent with the density policy for the City's
planning area designation. The Council's Net Density Worksheet can be found online at
http://www.ilietrocouncil.org/planning/LPH/foims.htm and can be used as an example in the City's
preparation of this portion of the Update. Because the City is largely developed and has proposed in
its draft Update to significantly reduce the amount of land for future annexation to the City, the City
may consider reviewing net densities for properties that are currently vacant or are changing land use
guiding from the previous comprehensive plan adopted in 1999.
Plan Implementation (Lisa Barajas, 651- 602 -1895)
The Update is incomplete for review. While the Implementation section details the steps that the City
proposes to take to implement a variety of plan elements, this section does not contain adequate
information to address the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) requirement. To meet statutory
requirements (Minn. Stat. 473.852 Subd. 4), the Update must include the City's five -year CIP, which
must include budgets and expenditure schedules for transportation, sewers, water supply, and parks
and open space facilities.
Sewers (Kyle Colvin, 651- 602 -1151)
The Update is incomplete for review and the following items need to be addressed or provided before
further review can be made:
1. The System Statement requires that the community include a description of its I/I program
and that it address a number of questions related to the I/I program. See page W -4 of the
• City's System Statement under the heading "Specific Requirements for the Sewer Element of
the City's Comprehensive Plan."
2. The Update needs to include a larger version of Figure 3, Sanitary Sewer System Map in the
Comprehensive Sanitary Sewer Plan. The larger size of the map will allow Council staff to
more accurately review and assess the City's sewer plan.
In summary, the submitted draft Update has missing items and may require revision. If you have any
questions or need further information, please contact the technical reviewer listed, or Lisa Barajas, Sector
Representative, at 651- 602 -1895.
Si ely,
yleManager
LocAssistance
CC: Eric Johnson, Oak Park Heights City Administrator
Sherry Broecker, Metropolitan Council District 12
Lisa Barajas, Sector Representative
Cheryl Olson, Referrals Coordinator
• October 24, 2008
_ 1
Mr. Scott Richards
Northwest Associated Consultants
4800 Olson Memorial Highway, Suite 202
Golden Valley, MN 55422
RE: City of Oak Park Heights 2008 - 2030 Comprehensive Plan
Dear Scott:
Thank you for submitting a copy of the review draft of the City of Oak Park Height's 2008 -2030
Comprehensive Plan. On behalf of the Valley Branch Watershed District (VBWD) Board of
Managers, I have reviewed the Comprehensive Plan for consistency with the VBWD 2005 -2015
Watershed Management Plan's goals and policies (adopted November 10, 2005). The VBWD
Managers reviewed and approved these comments at their October 23, 2008 meeting.
Overall, the Comprehensive Plan lays out suitable goals and policies for managing the future of the
community through development and redevelopment. The City is to be commended for integrating
policies protecting natural drainage ways throughout the plan. The remainder of this letter includes
our comments on. how the plan could be further strengthened to protect surface and ground waters
within the VBWD. Many of these comments encourage the integration of other water related
policies throughout the plan,. especially, into the land use components. The comments are organized
according to the chapter, goal and policies of the Comprehensive Plan.
• Land Use Goals and Policies
General Land Use, Policy B (page 70)
This policy directed towards preventing overly intensive land uses is laudable in that it could result
in minimizing impervious surfaces. However, the stated means of managing intensity is through
provision of adequate facilities such as parking. While adequate parking is important, parking
standards are often excessive and result in large amounts of unused impervious surface. We
encourage the City to balance its methods of managing development intensity by also including
impacts on water quality.
Commercial Land Use, Policy D & E page 73)
Since Oak Park Heights is nearly fully developed, opportunities to improve water quality will occur
primarily through redevelopment. These policies (or a new one) present an opportunity to state that
the City will pursue water quality improvements through redevelopment activity. Water quality
treatment facilities also present opportunities to enhance the aesthetic transition between commercial
and residential uses.
Land Use :Plan .
Environmental Protection, Item 3 (page 79),
Existing: wetlands should not be used as the primary means of managing stormwater from. developed
• areas. Wetlands will be degraded from both pollutants and from fluctuating water levels resulting
LINCOLN FETCHER DAVID BUCHECK DONALD SCHEEL • DALE BORASH RAY LUCKSINGER
VALLEY BRANCH WATERSHED DISTRICT P.O. BOX 838 LAKE ELMO, MINNESOTA 55042 -0538
www.vbwd.org
Mr. Scott Richards
October 24, 2008
Page 2
from impervious surface runoff. Runoff must be treated through best management practices prior to
discharge to wetlands. Discharge to wetlands also must be managed to minimize impact on wetland
function and habitat.
Transportation Goals & Policies •
Goals 3, Policy C (page 112)
While on- street parking is generally incompatible with high volume roadways, we encourage the City
to explore the reasonable use of on- street parking and the redesign of roadways that can
accommodate on- street parking. Use of the existing street networks reduces the need for on -site
parking and hence the amount of impervious surface devoted to parking.
Transportation infrastructure has a significant impact on surface water quality. In general, the
transportation chapter could discuss the relationship between transportation and water quality and
include goals and policies that reduce the negative impact of roads on water quality.
Other Comments
The Comprehensive Plan is a more "accessible" document than the Surface Water Management Plan
for the average person. We encourage the City to summarize the Surface Water Management plan
and include the goals from that plan in the Comprehensive Plan. Public education is one of the goals
of the Surface Water Management Plan and the Comprehensive Plan is a strong communication tool.
Thank you for the opportunity to comment on this plan. If you have any questions about these
comments, please contact me at 952- 832 -2846.
Sincerely,
Dan Petrik
Barr Engineering Company
Engineers for the Valley Branch Watershed District
c: VBWD Managers
Amy Carolan, Middle St. Croix WMO, c/o Washington Conservation District
Karen Kill, BCWD, c/o Washington Conservation District
Amanda Strommer, Washington County Public Health & Environment
Judy Sventek, Metropolitan Council Watershed Coordinator
•
CroN Office of Administration
e �
3
WasWng
s R. Schu
Jame g
Co � n County Administrator
v �j- 1 � �S1Mf•MO�
• Molly F. O'Rourke
Deputy Administrator
November 4, 2008 9M
RECEIVED NOV 6 z
Eric Johnson, City Administrator
City of Oak Park Heights
P O Box 2007
Oak Park Heights, MN 55082
Draft Comprehensive Plan Update
Dear Mr. Johnson:
Washington County has reviewed the City of Oak Park Heights's Draft Comprehensive
Plan Update.
Enclosed is a memorandum containing comments from our staff reviewers. These
comments have been reviewed and approved by our Washington County Board of
Commissioners. Please consider these as you finalize your plan.
• Washington County commends the City of Oak Park Heights for its efforts and foresight
in developing this plan. We look forward to continued cooperation with.the City of Oak
Park Heights as we work together to update our comprehensive plans to implement our
shared vision.
If there are questions on these comments, please contact Ann Pung - Terwedo at 651-
430 -4362; e -mail: ann puncl terwedo(cD-co.washington.mn.us
Sinc rely,
James R. Schug
County Administrator
Enc.
c: Don Theisen, Washington County Director /County Engineer
hard
"tio' s C onsulting Planner
eandl enard, Baytown.Town Chair
• OAComprehensive Plan \Community Comp Plans \County Board Correspondence \City of Oak Park Heights Letter.doc
Government Center - 14949 62nd Street North — P.O. Box 6, Stillwater, Minnesota 55082 -0006
Phone: 651 -430 -6001 • Fax: 651 - 439 -6017 • TTY: 651 - 430 -6246
www.co.washington.mn.us
Equal Employment Opportunity / Affirmative Action
ONQ Office of Administration -
Washington 3
Opp---.00 �`i James R. Schug
County ��4`r County Administrator
Molly F. O'Rourke
Deputy Administrator •
MEMORANDUM
TO: Scott Richards, Consulting Planner, Northwest Associated Consultants
FROM: Washington County Comprehensive Plan Review Staff
DATE: October 2008
RE: Oak Park Heights Draft Comprehensive Plan
Compiled below are staff comments on Oak Park Heights Comprehensive Plan Update. If you
have questions on these comments, please contact Ann Pung - Terwedo at 651- 430 -4362; e-
mail: ann. pung- trwedo @co.washington.mn.us.
Land Use:
The Land Use Chapter provides policies, consistent with orderly growth within the current
jurisdictional boundaries of Oak Park Heights - during the planning' period to 2030. The county •
encourages that land uses within the MUSA, especially along the Highway 36 corridor, be
allowed for mixed use developments with densities that support transit opportunities. The county
is encouraged on the policies that support private reinvestment in the community.
The county has concerns regarding the two areas currently within the current jurisdictional
boundaries of Baytown Township identified on the future Annexation Plan Map. Specifically
these areas are:
1. Page 80 -81, Annexation and Future Annexation Plan Map: The map indentifies
an area approximately 71 acres.. in size, located south and east of Boutwells
Landing for future annexation to the City of Oak Park Heights for expansion of
the Boutwells Landing campus. The annexation would occur by a petition from
the property owners and if the affected jurisdiction was willing to detach the
property. The Baytown Township Draft Comprehensive Plan identifies
approximately 13 acres of this area for expansion of the Boutwells Landing
campus with the remainder post 2030 urban development. The Baytown
Township Draft Comprehensive Plan states" The Metropolitan Council has
directed Baytown .Township, to designate areas within the. Township to be
reserved for future sewer services'.
Government Center • 14949 62nd Street North — P.O. Box 6, Stillwater, Minnesota 55082 -0006 •
Phone: 651 -430 -6001 • Fax: 651 - 430 -6017 • TTY: 651 - 430 -6246
www.co.washington.mn.us
Equal Employment Opportunity / Affirmative Action
2. Page 81 -82, Annexation and Future Annexation Plan Map: The DNR property
• along Osgood Avenue will continue to be a public, wildlife management area so it
is not necessary to annex into the City of Oak Park Heights for the same
purpose. Based on the Baytown Township Draft Comprehensive Plan, this area
will continue to be post 2030 public land.
The Oak Park Heights draft plan discusses in great detail the processes in place for annexation
of land but does not discuss how communities can cooperate in order to implement a common
land use vision regardless of municipal boundaries. It fails to discuss joint powers agreements
for extension of municipal water and sewer services, police and fire services, maintenance
agreements and other services. These joint powers agreements are common and they can
prevent hostile and costly annexation battles between communities. Such agreements have
occurred between Baytown Township and Bayport for the east area of Baytown along CSAH 21.
These appear to have been successful.
Transportation: The following are specific comments on Transportation:
1. Page 91, Transportation Introduction: The description of the four modes of
transportation encompassing, "the automobile, pedestrian, bicycle, and
roadways", seems to be a bit of a mixed metaphor. The county would ordinarily
divide road users into different users, such as automobiles, pedestrians, bicycles,
mass transit, and trucks, or divide the system into modes such as roadways,
commuter rail, light rail, heavy rail, and air travel, but this mixed modes of travel
with users.
• 2. Page 93, Minor Arterials: The text omits CSAH 21, on the east border of the City,
which is a Class A Minor Arterial, Expander, and misidentifies Trunk Highway 95
as an Augmenter. Trunk Highway 95 is a Connector; Augmenters exist only
inside of the 1- 494/694 ring. These are also noted on the maps on pages 97, 98,
and 115.
3. Page 99, Improvement Plans- County: It may be worth noting that the County CIP
now includes trail improvements on Osgood Avenue, CSAH 24, from 50` Street
North to 62 Street North, as well as a pedestrian underpass at 50 Street for
construction in 2010.
4. Page 101, Traffic Volumes and Forecasts: The volumes shown on this map do
not correspond exactly with the County's 2030 Traffic Model, nor do the volumes
for 2006 correspond with the figures used in the model. Data from the County
model is available to the City's consultant. Contact Joe Lux at 651- 430 -4312 or
by e-mail at In addition to the "base" 2030 model,
an iteration was run without a new St. Croix River crossing. In this scenario,
traffic volumes on Trunk Highway 36 were significantly lower.
5. Page 103, Improvement Plans- State: The county supports the city's statements
regarding the intersections on Trunk Highway 36 and looks forward to working
with the city and state on improvements that facilitate the safe and efficient
operation of the intersections.
•
City of Oak Park Heights Comprehensive Plan Update Page 2
r
6. Page 117, the Minnesota Department of Transportation Access control table:
This table is correct, but omits the critical "Access Category" column, which •
defines the type of facility the standards are being applied to. This table is very
similar to, -but differs, slightly, from Washington_CQurity's standards as. tabulated
below:
WASHINGTON COUNTY
ACCESS SPACING GUIDELINES
FUNCTIONAL CLASSIFICATION OF COUNTY HIGHWAY
PRINCIPAL MINOR ARTERIAL
TYPE OF ACCESS ARTERIAL >7,500 ADT < 7,500 ADT COLLECTOR LOCAL
A. Private residential driveways No direct No direct access (3) (
(3)
access
B. Commercial driveways or non No direct No direct access 1!8 mile 118 mile
continuous commercial streets access
C. Non- continuous residential No direct 118 mile with no 1/8 mile 118 mile (
streets access median openin
+ 1!8 mile 1l8 mile
D. Continuous local streets and '/z mile + / a mile /. mile
collector streets
E. Minor arterials '/z mile '/z mile '/z mile '/z mile +/: mile
1. See Figure T -11 for functional class function of each County highway.
2. Traffic volumes refer to 20 year forecasts.
3. Determination based on other criteria (sight distance, speed, traffic volume, etc.)
4. Distances shown are minimums.
5. "Non - continuous" streets refer to cul de sacs or short length streets (less than % mile) which do not cross the
County highway in question.
g. 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.
7. County reserves the right to increase the minimums based on other criteria (sight distance, speed, traffic volume,
etc.) •
CMR:\WORDWISC4A.1— Syncing Guiddm s 0
Transit: The following are specific comments on Transit:
1. Page 107: There is good overview of the existing transit service provided.
2. Page 111, Transportation, Goal 1: It references that a transportation system needs to
include all modes.
3. Page 111, Transportation, Goal 2: Washington County looks forward to coordinating with
the city on transportation projects.
4. Page 113, Transit, Goal 1: The county looks forward to coordinating with the city on
transit improvements, including feasibility and Alternatives Analysis studies for both the
TH 36 and 1 -94 transitway corridors.
5. Page 122: it may be appropriate to discuss the work completed by the Metropolitan
Council in the 2030 Transit. Master -Study for:;th: a TH. 36; a:nd,l -94. Corridors. Both were
identified as transitways with future analysis. needed .: The: Metropolitan. Council is in the
process of identifying funding to move these corridors into either a feasibility study, or an
Alternatives Analysis. Improvements to one or both of these corridors could provide
•
City of Oak Park Heights Comprehensive Plan Update Page 3
significant benefit to Oak Park Heights residents. Improvements along TH 36 could
• have a direct impact to OPH given TH 36's location within OPH.
6. Page 122: It is good to see the discussion on the need to maintain and expand the Bial-
a -ride service. This was also identified as a need as part of the Washington County
Transit Plan. The Transit Plan also identifies a potential transit center in Oak Park
Heights /Stillwater that could serve as a hub for this service and additional fixed route
service.
7. Page` 122: There may be more discussion on the need for more fixed route transit
service: The current text says the 2030 TPP maintains the existing level of service,
however, the text does not say if this is adequate to serve the needs of OPH residents.
The county would assume that additional service downtown St. Paul and new service
to' Minneapolis would be a plus for OPH and something that they would support, but
neither is discussed in this plan.
Parks and Trails:
The City of Oak Park Heights has taken initiatives in the last ten years to provide new parks,
sidewalks and trails to meet the needs of the residents. The Parks and Trails Chapter provides
detailed guidance on the development of new park facilities. However, the plan does not provide
a policy on collaborative efforts with Washington County to provide a pedestrian crossing across
county roads or to connect to the county system. The plan does identify that development of a
tunnel under Osgood Avenue is also in the long range plans. As noted in the transportation
comments, the county has included the tunnel under Osgood Avenue in the 5 year CIP for
• construction in 2010.
The current Washington County Linear Park Plan also identifies Osgood Avenue Potential
Linear Park Corridor.
Water Resources:
Washington County commends the City of Oak Park Heights for recognizing the importance of
protecting natural resources within the city's Vision Statement, Values, and Community Goals
section. The county would like to offer the following comments and recommendations to the city
regarding groundwater:
1. Page 40, Protect Oak Park Heights' Natural Resources: The county suggests adding the
protection of groundwater and surface water resources to this section.
2. Page 45, Natural Environmental Features: The county suggests adding a description of
the geology and hydrogeology of Oak Park Heights within this section. The county also
recommends referencing and supporting the Washington County Groundwater Plan,
using sample language provided below:
"The Washington County Groundwater Plan provides a county -wide framework
for the protection and, conservation of groundwater resources. The Groundwater
Plan "ownership" and implementation falls to every community, watershed
organization and state agency with a vested interest in protecting Washington
• County's groundwater resources."
City of Oak Park Heights Comprehensive Plan Update Page 4
3. Page 66, Wetlands, Lakes, and Streams: The county suggests adding "Groundwater" to Y
this heading. The city could then incorporate the implementation action below as an •
additional policy within this section:
Washington County 'GroundwaterPlan, Chapter 7, Policy. 2, Implementation Action 1:
Groundwater Recharge Area Management
Develop Land use "regulations to protect groundwater resources based on
completed studies and rankings of groundwater recharge areas:
4. Page 67, Air Quality and Pollution: The county commends the city for including
groundwater within this goal. The city could also incorporate the implementation action
below as an additional policy within this section:
Chapter 8 Policy 3 Implementation Action 2:
- Washington County Groundwater Plan, p Y
Groundwater planning and monitoring as part of building permitor.conditional use permit
process: -
• Require a groundwater monitoring plan or groundwater 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 transfer facility. Where available, use wellhead protection plans to
assist with this process.
5. Page 69, General Land Use: The county recommends incorporating the implementation
actions below within this section:
Washington County Groundwater Plan, Chapter 2, Policy 3, Implementation Action 2:
Land Use - Integrating Groundwater Protection into Comprehensive Plans, Zoning
Ordinances and Decisions •
• Assure coordination with other LGUs for groundwater sensitive areas,
wellhead protection areas, water use contingency and allocation plans, and
other groundwater issues where the plans may affect other jurisdictions.
6. Page 128, Water Service: Since the city has completed Phase I and II of the Wellhead
Protection Plan (WHPP), in accordance with Minnesota Rules Chapter 4720, the county
suggests including details of the WHPP. The county also suggests adding the city's
Wellhead Protection Plan delineation map(s). This information could also be included in
the city's Water Supply Plan.
The county additionally suggests incorporating all of the above into the Implementation section
of the Plan.
Sustainability:
The county is encouraged by the City of Oak Park Heights polices in Land Use chapter under
Solar Access to encourage developers and builders to allow for and offer active and /or passive
solar energy systems in new developments, in addition to the city's goal under Recycling and
Solid Waste Reduction to encourage recycling programs and solid waste reduction initiatives.
We look forward to partnering with you where and when opportunities arise to create a more
sustainable region.
•
Page 5
City of Oak Park Heights Comprehensive Plan Update
i
i
• Healthy Communities:
The county encourages planning that promotes sustainability, safety, access and healthy
lifestyles. The following are specific comments regarding healthy. communities:
1. Page 71, Land Use, Goals and Policies, Goal 1: Policy G: The county is encouraged by
Oak Park Heights' goal to develop housing options that will meet the continued demand
for senior housing.
2. Page 112, Transportation, .Goals and Policies, Goal 3, Policy E: The county
recommends that the following wording in bold is added to Policy E:
"Require design and control of.all intersections to promote proper visibility and
safety for drivers, pedestrians, and bicyclists."
3. Page 113, Transportation, Transit, Goal 1, Policies A & B: The county commends the
city of Oak Park Heights for working with partners on efforts to enhance transit systems,
ride -share programs, and the expansion of park and ride facilities.
4. Page 148, Parks and Trails, Goals and Policies, Goal 2: The county is encouraged by
Oak Park Heights' goal to provide connectedness within the city, neighboring
communities and regional systems by a safe and convenient multi -use trail /sidewalk
system.
IC I
i
•
City of Oak Park Heights Comprehensive Plan Update
Page 6
• TABLE OF CONTENTS
Paqe
Implementation............................................ ............................... 175
Appendix A — Anticipated Capital Improvement Program
List of Maps:
Oak Park Heights Base Map .......................... ............................... 3
Land Use Issues Map ................................... ............................... 19
Transportation Issues Map ............................. ............................... 25
Community Facilities Issues Map .................... ............................... 29
Parks and Trails Issues Map .......................... ............................... 33
Natural Environmental Features Map ............... ............................... 47
Existing Land Use Map ................................. ............................... 51
ZoningMap ................................................ ............................... 63
Future Annexation Plan Map .......................... ............................... 81
Proposed Land Use Map ............................... ............................... 89
Roadway Jurisdiction Map ............................. ............................... 95
• Functional Classification Map ......................... ............................... 97
Traffic Volumes Map ..................................... ............................... 101
St. Croix River Crossing and Highway 36 Alternative Map ................... 105
TransitMap ................................................ ............................... 109
Transportation Plan Map ............................... ............................... 115
Traffic Analysis Zones Map ............................ ............................... 119
Community Facilities Map .............................. ............................... 125
Existing Parks and Trails Map ........................ ............................... 145
Washington County Park and Trail Map ........... ............................... 153
Planning Districts — Proposed Land Use Map .... ............................... 160
Planning District 1 Map ................................. ............................... 161
Planning District 2 Map ................................. ............................... 163
Planning District 3 Map ................................. ............................... 165
Planning District 4 Map ................................. ............................... 167
PlanningDistrict 5 Map ................................. ............................... 170
Planning District 6 Map ................................. ............................... 172
Comprehensive Plan 2008
City of Oak Park Heights
TABLE OF CONTENTS •
Page
List of Tables:
Population Growth ....................................... ............................... 5
1990 -2004 Oak Park Heights Household Information ......................... 6
Oak Park Heights 1990 and 2000 Household Type ............................ 6
Oak Park Heights Population Growth by Age Group ........................... 7
1990 and 2000 Occupations ........................... ............................... 8
2005 Washington County Employment ............ ............................... 9
2000 Educational Attainment .......................... ............................... 10
1989 and 1999 Income ................................. ............................... 11
Oak Park Heights 1989 and 1999 Household Income ......................... 11
Existing Land Use ........................................ ............................... 53
2007 Zoning Breakdown ................................ ............................... 56
Summary of Zoning District Classifications and Requirements ............. 61
Household and Population Growth .................. ............................... 78
Population, Households and Employment Projections ........................ 78
Functional Classification of Streets .................. ............................... 112
Minnesota Department of Transportation — Access Control .................. 117 •
Allocation of Forecasts to Traffic Analysis Zones ............................... 118
School District Enrollment .............................. ............................... 127
Existing Park Components ............................. ............................... 144
Comprehensive Plan 2008 .
City of Oak Park Heights
• 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
• Excellence and Quality in the Delivery of Services
• Fiscal Responsibility
• Ethics and Integrity
• Treating Citizens with Respect as our Customers
• • Positive Relations with the Community
• Responsiveness
• Visionary Leadership and Planning
COMMUNITY GOALS
The 1998 Comprehensive Plan included a list of goals that directed the development of
policies and plans for that document. The goals have been revised and updated to
reflect the changes over the past ten years and to set the direction of the community for
the next 20 years. 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
City of Oak Park Heights Page 39
MISSION STATEMENT, VALUES AND •
COMMUNITY GOALS
• Encourage continued but orderly and diverse growth and redevelopment in
Oak Park Heights.
In order 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. This development must be
accomplished in an orderly, organized and coordinated fashion.
• 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 City will 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 to further strengthen the image of the community.
• Work toward the resolution of the St. Croix River Crossing and Highway 36
improvements.
The most significant issue facing the City of Oak Park Heights has been and continues
to be the resolution of issues related to the St. Croix River Crossing and Highway 36
improvements. The City will continue to work with the Minnesota Department of
Transportation in resolution of issues such as the costs of utility reconstruction and
impacts on residents and businesses on the Highway 36 corridor during the time of
construction.
• Protect Oak Park Heights' natural resources.
The St. Croix River, as well as the wetlands, ground water, surface water resources,
and significant tree massings scattered throughout the community, provide natural
amenities and add significant aesthetic recreational and economic value to the
community. The City should continue to take measures to preserve and protect these
resources, as well as maintaining and protecting existing street trees and the health of
Comprehensive Plan 2008 •
City of Oak Park Heights Page 40
• MISSION STATEMENT, VALUES AND
COMMUNITY GOALS
all of the tree resources in the community. Providing access to and preservation of the
views of the river and wetlands are necessary to make these unique and valuable
assets available to all residents of the community.
• 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 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.
This goal suggests active cooperation with surrounding cities and townships as well as
Washington County to assure that the City and rural areas will not have land use
conflict. Long range joint land use and annexation planning would be in the interest of
the City and its neighboring communities.
• Ensure that the Comprehensive Plan promotes 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,
image and enhancement, and the common good of the Oak Park Heights community.
• r. Comprehensive Plan 2008
City of Oak Park Heights Page 41
• 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. Without this direction, the plans and
programs which are presented are visionless attempts to improve the community.
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 barriers 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 2008
City of Oak Park Heights Page 65
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. Relate development/redevelopment to the natural characteristics of the land to
enhance the development through the preservation of attractive natural amenities
(i.e., wetlands, creeks, wooded areas, slopes, etc.).
B. Restrict or prohibit development/redevelopment within Oak Park Heights'
drainageways, floodplains, wetlands, and other natural features which perform
important environmental functions in their natural state.
C. Preserve natural drainage patterns wherever feasible.
D. Require all development/redevelopment to manage its on -site storm water
generation to ensure no negative impact to downstream flooding or water quality.
E. Require grading and drainage plans as part of any new residential or commercial
development/redevelopment. These plans must illustrate proposed drainage •
patterns, plans for on -site storm water retention and erosion control.
F. Maintain and update as necessary floodplain, shoreland and wetland regulations
to regulate development within these sensitive areas.
G. Develop land use regulations to protect ground water resources based on
completed studies and rankings of ground water recharge areas.
TREES, LANDSCAPING AND STREETSCAPING
Goal: Provide continuing and enhanced streetscapes, landscaping as part of
development/redevelopment, 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.
Comprehensive Plan 2008 •
City of Oak Park Heights Page 66
• 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. Plan enhanced entrances to the City to include signage, landscaping and other
appropriate features.
G. Encourage a coordinated effort in comprehensive streetscaping, landscaping and
entrance planning implementation to tie areas of Oak Park Heights together
visually.
H. Provide City financial support to the ongoing tree protection, streetscape and
landscaping programs.
NATURAL FEATURES
Goal: Ensure preservation and enhancement of views, 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.
D. Protect and preserve soil types associated with drainageways in order to channel
flowage, control erosion, and prevent flooding.
E. Review development/redevelopment plans to evaluate the effect of development/
redevelopment on significant views for other surrounding properties.
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.
• Comprehensive Plan 2008
City of Oak Park Heights Page 67
LAND USE - GOALS AND POLICIES •
B. In areas of potential noise, air, or light pollution, implement design approaches to
reduce possible problems.
C. Initiate, promote, update, and support programs which are aimed at monitoring
and reducing air, noise, light, ground water, and soil pollution and contamination.
D. 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.
E. 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.
SOLAR ACCESS
Goal 1: Protect reasonable access to direct sunlight for solar energy systems.
Policies:
A. Consider modification of existing ordinances to protect access of direct sunlight •
to roof tops of all principal structures.
B. Encourage developers to establish covenants that do not restrict the
development and use of active and /or passive solar energy systems.
C. Encourage builders and developers to offer solar energy system options, to the
extent practical, for space heating and cooling and hot water heating in new
residential, commercial and industrial developments.
RECYCLING AND SOLID WASTE REDUCTION
Goal 1: 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 reduction /separation
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.
Comprehensive Plan 2008 •
City of Oak Park Heights Page 68
• 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
Oak Park Heights has taken a progressive planning attitude in regards to its
Comprehensive Plan and the current planning process in order to direct land developed
in a manner that results in compatible land use patterns and efficient utilization of City
services and utilities. The City's major planning objective 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 completely developed by 2010.
Small parcels of residential property scattered throughout the community will be infilled
with single family and townhome development. Commercial areas along Highways 36
and 5, 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 2008
I O N
City of Oak Park Heights Page 77
LAND USE -LAND USE PLAN •
PROJECTED GROWTH
Population and Households
The City of Oak Park Heights has had steady population growth since 1970. 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. By 2010, the community will be over 5,000 people with modest
growth projected hereafter. Household and population growth of the community from
1970 to 2006 is found in the following table.
HOUSEHOLD AND POPULATION GROWTH
OAK PARK HEIGHTS
1970 1980 1990 2000 2006
Population 1,238 2,591 3,486 3,957 4,676
Households 372 955 1,322 1,528 2,008
Household Size 3.33 2.71 2.63 2.25 2.06
Source: U.S. Census 1970, 1980, 1990, 2000, 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
In the past as part of a comprehensive planning process, the City has completed its own
population projections. With the community almost completely developed, it has been
determined that a City generated projection is not necessary. The Metropolitan Council,
in its 2030 Regional Development Framework, has projected population, household and
employment forecasts. These forecasts are accepted by the City as the basis for
growth through 2030, with the exception of the employment numbers, in which the City
projections will be less than what is provided by the Metropolitan Council.
POPULATION, HOUSEHOLDS AND EMPLOYMENT PROJECTIONS
OAK PARK HEIGHTS
2000
Census 2010 2020 2030
- Population 3,957 5,500 5,400 5,700
Households 1,528 2,180 2,300 2,500
Employment 2,713 3,600 4,100 4,600
Source: U.S. Census 2000, Metropolitan Council
Comprehensive Plan 2008 •
City of Oak Park Heights Page 78
• LAND USE -LAND USE PLAN
As indicated above, the City will exceed 5,000 persons at the end of the decade. Once
the City nears approximately 5,500 people, the population will likely level off. The 2020
population projection is expected to drop slightly and then increase to 5,700 by 2030.
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 2,500 by the year 2030. 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 4,600 by 2030. This
again may be optimistic with the limited land available for future commercial
development.
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION
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.
4. Work with Washington County and the Watershed Districts with ongoing
stormwater projects and recycling programs.
• Comprehensive Plan 2008
City of Oak Park Heights Page 79
LAND USE -LAND USE PLAN •
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.
ANNEXATION
The City's policy toward annexation has changed since the 1998 Comprehensive Plan.
Previously the City recognized the low supply of vacant undeveloped land for residential
development and the ongoing demand for commercial and business development land
in the St. Croix Valley. The City had identified significant areas in Baytown Township
for continued growth. It is now recognized that the City will not aggressively pursue
areas of annexation from the Township or as a result of detachment/annexation from
one of the adjoining cities.
As part of the planning process, the City has identified two areas that potentially could •
become part of the City in the next 20 years. The properties are identified in the Future
Annexation Plan, found on the following page. The City would consider two areas for
annexation if petitioned by the property owners and of the affected jurisdiction was
willing to detach the property. The first area is at the intersection of Highway 36 and
Manning Avenue. Property owners in this area have previously petitioned Lake Elmo to
detach and Oak Park Heights to annex the property. The City of Oak Park Heights
would agree to such an annexation, but only with agreement by the City of Lake Elmo.
The property is recognized as having value for commercial development if utilities were
provided by Oak Park Heights. The City would be able to service the property with
sewer and water.
The second area is south and east of Boutwells Landing in Baytown Township. This
area is seen as a potential expansion area for additional senior housing as part of the
Boutwells Landing campus. Roadway access and utility extensions could easily be
accomplished. The City will continue to work with Valley Senior Services Alliance
representatives and Baytown Township to accommodate this possible expansion.
Comprehensive Plan 2008 •
City of Oak Park Heights Page 80
• LAND USE -LAND USE PLAN
If needed, the City will need to consider using the forms of annexation provided by State
law, including orderly annexation and detachment/annexation, if the Township and Lake
Elmo will cooperate. Orderly annexation is a process established in Minnesota Statutes
that allows a township and municipality to negotiate the terms for annexation of
designated land areas. The terms, which are finalized in a signed document and
approved by Minnesota Planning, can be structured to regulate the timing of growth,
provide for planning and land use regulations, and avoid costly and time consuming
annexation battles between the townships and the City. Joint agreements will also
allow the City to plan for roadway and utility extension in its periphery areas.
Minnesota Statutes also allows for annexation by ordinance with a property owner's
petition for a property of 60 acres or less. The land must be contiguous to the City limits
and the property owner cannot petition more than once a year to annex parcels of land
that are contiguous to previously annexed parcels. Additionally, parcels that are
completely surrounded by the City can be annexed by the City by approval of an
ordinance. While it is preferred that the City negotiate annexation with the Township
through orderly annexation agreements, for smaller developments or infill of parcels to
complete a contiguous boundary, these forms of annexation should be considered by
the City.
• Detachment/annexation is a process utilized between two cities to adjust municipal
boundaries. Property owners can petition for the adjustment which is then agreed to by
both jurisdictions.
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 58 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
• Y` Comprehensive Plan 2008
City of Oak Park Heights Page 83
LAND USE -LAND USE PLAN •
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 a handful of sites deemed historic within the physical profile
section of the Land Use Plan. These sites, the Moritz Bergstein house and shoddy mill,
Club Tara and the Stillwater Overlook have been recognized as historic in the
community. The City will continue to work with the Minnesota Department of
Transportation (Mn /DOT) on preservation and maintenance of the overlook on Lookout
Trail North. Club Tara 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.
The Bergstein house and mill is within the area that was purchased by Mn /DOT for
construction of the St. Croix River Bridge. With the expected location of the bridge, the
City will work with Mn /DOT on possible preservation or moving of the structures.
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 commission to oversee
historic resources.
SOLAR ACCESS PROTECTION
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 are implemented for the purpose of creating separation between structures
and allowing equal sunlight access such that a property is not in the shadow of an
adjacent building.
Comprehensive Plan 2008 •
City of Oak Park Heights Page 84
• 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 and the
possible expansion of Boutwells Landing into land currently within Baytown. Township.
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.
The Metropolitan Council has forecasted affordable housing needs for all cities and
townships within the Twin Cities Metropolitan Area for the period from 2011 to 2020.
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 24 affordable housing units. The City of Oak Park Heights
remains committed to expenditures of funds, and the use of property taxes to support
the Washington County HRA in reaching this initiative.
Comprehensive Plan 2008
• P
City of Oak Park Heights Page 85
LAND USE -LAND USE PLAN •
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 Heights' 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 can 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 building
conditions, outdoor storage, and accessory uses. Effective enforcement of these
regulations is necessary and an ongoing responsibility of the City.
Within the community, there appears to be continued support for 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.
Comprehensive Plan 2008
City of Oak Park Heights Page 86 •
• LAND USE -LAND USE PLAN
The Neighborhood
In order to enhance and reinforce the sense of community identity within the City, it is
essential that a sense of community and focus is established. Since the character of
Oak Park Heights is described as "small city ", individual neighborhoods should be
maintained. Each neighborhood should relate well within itself as well as to adjoining
neighborhoods and the entire community. Quality, low density residential development
within Oak Park Heights is expected to continue to be the predominant type of
residential land use. However, townhome, condominium, multiple family and other
housing types and styles that will provide price and style options for people throughout
their life cycle will also be promoted as infill development.
In that the community neighborhoods are the foundation of what makes Oak Park
Heights the desirable City that it is, investment and enhancement of many areas will be
essential in the future. In this regard, the development of new residential areas of the
community should be done in a manner which respects the integrity of existing
neighborhoods and creates new living environments that result in desirable living
environments.
• PROPOSED LAND USE MAP
The Proposed Land Use Map on the following page illustrates the 2030 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 2008 to 2030 in five year increments. The existing vacant,
undeveloped land area in the City as of 2008 is 149 acres. Most of the projected
development is expected for commercial, highway business, medium density
residential, and high density residential land uses. It is projected that this development
will occur prior to 2020. The table on the following page provides the projected land use
by category.
As of 2008, there were 343 acres of low density residential, 65 acres of medium density
residential, and 79 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,
Comprehensive Plan 2008
City of Oak Park Heights Page 87
LAND USE -LAND USE PLAN •
parks and open space, right -of -way, and other undeveloped land has been removed
from these totals.
The resulting density in 2008 for each of these land use is as follows: with 903 units,
the resulting low density residential density is 2.6 units per acre; with 258 units, the
medium density residential density is 3.9 units per acre; and with 986 units, the high
density residential density is 12.4 units per acre.
LAND USE TABLE IN FIVE YEAR STAGES
Existing Proposed Acreage Change
Acreage
2008-
Category 2008 2010 2015 2020 2025 2030 2030
Low Density 1 -3 units /acre 343 343 343 343 343 343 0
Medium Density 4 -8 units /acre 65 105 110 110 110 110 45
Hi h Density, (8-12 79 84 89 89 89 89 20
Commercial 264 284 313 333 333 333 69 V
Highway Business 82 92 97 97 97 97 15 •
Industrial 382 382 382 382 382 382 0
Institutional 363 363 363 363 363 363 0
Parks and Recreation 166 166 166 166 166 166 0
Open Space/Vacant 149 69 25 5 5 5 144
Rights-of-Way 299 304 304 304 304 304 5
utility 11 11 11 11 11 11 0
Water 26 26 26 26 26 26 0
TOTAL LAND / WATER AREA 2,229 2,229 2,229 t 2,229 2,229 2,229 0
Source: Northwest Associated Consultants, Inc.
Comprehensive Plan 2008 •
City of Oak Park Heights Page 88
• 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 April of 1999. The Comprehensive Plan
• includes a section entitled Park and Trail Plan that will provide a summary of the plan.
A separate document will be created as a complete update to the 1999 document.
• Comprehensive Plan 2008
City of Oak Park Heights Page 91
I
I
• 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 turn lanes at all intersections through the community.
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 Technical Advisory Committee/Transportation Advisory Board has
specified four levels of "A" minor arterials: relievers, augmenters, expanders, and
connectors. Highway 95 is designated a minor connector; Highway 5, County State Aid
Highway (CSAH) 24 (Osgood Avenue), and CSAH 21 and 23 (Beach Road) north of
Highway 36 are designated minor expanders.
Comprehensive Plan 2008
City of Oak Park Heights Page 93
••
co
cn
cn r-
oil 0
uj
.
1
�,► . .
�� .�r �a ♦ rror .an
11 111111 111111 11111 111■ 1111■ 11111 o CL
dlll IIh .111 III II!!2 1111 11111 ■111 ■Ili .■.■
1■ll ■� 1■/ 1!111 1 it ■111 111. 11111 IR 111■ a 1 •
• _ I ■1111111 : /Il 1.■ IGiI ills 11111 /■ Elms :.
i � ' IIIIIIIIIIU 111111 111.1 .H 111■ oil ■E1 LL
/111 sllll ��� ■1■ �` ■ss ■■
r,
I' ll /111111111 C ' ��•��
Milli iI ��!11111111 ■
O a -
41tR".TN .� I ■ IAl
� •+III ■. Illls 11111 111 111 • �
• , Ili ::■ 1 ■III .I■ . 11 1111 l'1 IIII 1� r�
111111111111 ■� ..■ 111 ■
IG■:�r� ■� a ■1 , �� 11 i �
�/ I II�.a...► X1111•...: •.,. i■ II, �
/� �Ilif :h�l.■'■■ Lnn X11 �■ ■■■ --
0 .I■ ■■n un.0 =p ■� == =� 1
111 11111
11111 111..1 .111.. 1111 ■a_... p. _
IIIt1. 1111111 .II ■C .II 1111 °� =IN �� p
1111111 1111111 ���...� -..7.
:In■n. u.I_In .nmu. _.11-�L �I��pl: � � � ��. ° - � , =
1 IIII. 1.11.1111 _1111111 i■:: C
n =■nu .■:.n ..ul.In::■■_�I' �! nil .-Gi►. -
1111111... ■II. 11111.1.E I � . ■ i.7 R , ���.. - � _
11■IIIIIL .■1.1a1 II ■IIII ■3i, ■ ■■ ■r ma y._ �� • f ,-\ -
i��l ii�li Obi %1t iliiiii�i::ni���'.::�• ,�� ` �� � �� � . ... .:'� i - � • — ■,1
1
m: "I =� ■_ �1� 1;/ ■
.11.n ■.■In. Hai � — �I■ a .
��111 /11 1!1.111111 IIIIloll ®■ /� -- -
1:1111111 .111111111 111111111 � _ � � ■i i�
MIME! �i ■ �� , •_ —
:111111.Ii 1ri►�1� -� w:� .
MW
.11 1111 ! 11 ®� �■ �� - :: � .
ICI) ■.l ■s ■� ��1�� �1 �I�■ � ■ �i��iO��i
�� it �� �■� \ �_ �.. :�...••�. ■.. / /►�� �� r
�� =1,� �b / ■1111 /111 /� ■.. �
■� - ��j� �I ° �Illliiil ■- - •� �
�� � IIIPI`I- ry i i � \� ��'� •11111. �
■■ �� �I :r`r ..�'trli il� x1111/
1111► \\ � - .� � ■� .11■
, .� ■r _ _ ��_ � 'L� 1 /.���• pry. ■■ ..
�I ■u�ii�' ■ ■' � _ .. _ � _ _ - lute' �ra�'lll. �.�
X1/1 .Ilq �.�� ■�■ ' . a
,I:� IIII 111 - w
ui
NO
�'.. ■ i� IIII. i � - •
III �,,�. ■ �.1� ,. ,
�� �' •
�.• �■
r :. . .
MME
LL
■ t
C -,RIF
_... ■rte r� �� ' � a
• 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. Major collectors include
Oakgreen Avenue from Highway 36 to 55 Street; CSAH 21 (Stagecoach Trail) and
CSAH 28; Pickett Avenue /58 Street and Beach Road south of Highway 36. Minor
collectors include two roadways, Oakgreen Avenue south of 55 Street and 58 Street
between Highway 5 and Oakgreen Avenue.
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 in Oak Park Heights is
indicated in the traffic volumes map on the following page. Average daily traffic (ADT)
volumes for the years 2000 and 2005 are included with projected forecasts for 2020 and
2030. In almost every area, the ADT volumes increase in actual numbers and with the
forecasted numbers.
The forecasted numbers for 2020 and 2030 indicate construction of the St. Croix River
Crossing and major improvements to the Highway 36 corridor. The numbers would vary
greatly on many of the roadways if the river crossing was not constructed.
IMPROVEMENT PLANS — COUNTY
The Washington County Highway Department has developed a Five Year
Transportation Capital Improvement Plan for the years 2007 -2011. None of the County
roadways within the City of Oak Park Heights are programmed for major roadway
improvements during this time period. The nearest improvement, programmed in 2008,
is the reconstruction of CSAH 15 to a four lane roadway from Highway 36 to one -half
mile north of CSAH 12. The Capital Improvement Program does include trail
•a
Comprehensive Plan 2008
City of Oak Park Heights Page 99
t,
TRANSPORTATION - PHYSICAL PROFILE •
improvements on Osgood Avenue from 50 Street to 62 Street North, as well as a
pedestrian underpass at 50 Street for construction in 2010.
•
Comprehensive Plan 2008 •
City of Oak Park Heights Page 100
_ %/: � p :� • latt %'oot 1:14J is
_ ♦ � ■11••• ,� • ttt e■ 1111 \t 111 \11 .+ ` i
_ `�/111N � ■111 ■OI 11111 111111 11111 111■ 1111■ 111 .
11M Fol
'• �� dlll 11= :111 ■11 1��1 1111 MINE ■Ili 1■ • • •
_ _ � ' ■ ■I ■ ■i, ■■ 11111 frill ■111 :111■ 11111 11 ■1111 •� •
_ •1 � I 1 ■11111111 :11■ 1 ■■ 1_ll 1 ■■ 11111 �■ �1 ■■
• - 1 i` 11111111111►
� (I�ii1p1 111111 11111 G11 ■ ■■ 111■
01■ �1
_ _ _ , ■ ■111 1111 ±1 ■■■ ,`■11 ■■
.1 11 11 ■■ r'� .11 \�•■ .
an
■ ■
" � •�• •. X01 11 /111111111 ■ � �� O
■`0L11� ■1■ �I
� •ill ■C_J■ �
�' WIFE
■1
11■I.� li ■■_ :Ei L1
LO
IA■ ■ ■111 11 � �� _ " _ \ _ , -
II�� 1111111■ ■ e ■�
mills
mills
NO
nm .:N � 1,
lion .0
ON
LO
�+ . • G !�_ •= � i=ce \t• •• • - �
1 ■1 ■1111 �IIIII • i -. 1 .- : _ �_ -
11 ■1:111 � ■11 ■NL. ��I I� �.. � �_• //• :� • -
■■ ■111 11111 ■1■ � �� ■ ""' :� • .■ =�\ .
■ ■� ■1 ■1111 ■IIII �� r.. - ��� ■���? •• - - f ■
11 ■■ ■ ■1 ■11 1 ■�^' 1T7.�.- Tm -�7T� °�eie ■ - - �j i
1■ ■111111 11111 ■11 � - � '� hT. � :: C:: ' -
I ■nnnm nnlun _ � ' ■ .. r .
� i'��III ■It ■11 ■I ISO N ��: •: � � 1 �: ■" ���p■
��' " I� /�` -',-' �i11111► /� ■111111111■ ■� �'� �■ ■
• ■ � �� - � �� it YI.iiYdi • . •
CN
� - �
I - _ �I � � .I 7► � • iii. X11111■
�� • _ \ ■■■� C�'N \■ ���r 1111/1
�� Tii Ir1 y�/� 11111P . - •
CD
LO
CD
CD x
111 �i _ = C:� -c� �■ .
1 ■ ■ � ■� � • f � ~• . : . ' , � - •
�1 I •
�;€ /��
•
Aoi
'
CD
oil C11)
ic LL
it � I �'•� . � �, � ��
t10
• 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.
D. Encourage citizen involvement in transportation planning and implementation
projects.
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. Cooperate with neighboring jurisdictions on coordination of street and roadway
extensions and improvements.
C. Plan for a highway and local road system that complements and facilitates local
movement provided by local streets, bicycle trails, and pedestrian facilities.
D. Continue to maintain a line of communication with county and state highway
officials in order to ensure that planned improvements are consistent with the
goals and objectives of the community.
Comprehensive Plan 2008
• r City of Oak Park Heights Page 111
TRANSPORTATION - GOALS AND POLICIES •
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
Hi her orders stems
Source: Minnesota Department of Transportation
Comprehensive Plan 2008
City of Oak Park Heights Page 112 •
....: 'n
r .� m a
Crl
w ••mo i w urLju >
=N
U • o j v 1�^ -s ��j^ L rn= o
Lu
o
>
0 !9 •� O ! w fHi i -' JJ 1J1111 �'J- i11 -- `! gyp ° in N
CL
■ O m x171 y
cn
•M .
0.2
r
j a
e
'<ake� Stag
E r
i pH
i T�
i 1.� T
cd mL�
r Li
1 r --
.
r —
_ innilnAW 1
1 1 E c
TT cu
C
N ! 1 M 0 0 N
O 1 O
c E 1 C o j iE y
�r ~ U
17 C °- ! � aci
>
I I i Y -
'° - T o
x a
w E
• 1 Z a 06 cn o
-o E C)
(n c
0O z > , an
J > —
ui ! 1 Q W U S
a� 0
! 1
j - - E
U
1 ! U) N
C
i � Q
- x O
O
-- M W U
m 1 1 U
�..� O O
1 to Q Q Q N N
cu
_ 1 (U o o U U
O O
Co
L y
- . •• a ' Iw Z �.
5 -
W 1
Z
o
y
L_I
8)
11
MIR f.%Wd
I ice O
V
pp
i ,tea ti
anuan 6uluu
E
C e
• 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 Principal Minor Arterial Collector Local
Arterial > 7,500 ADT < 7,500 ADT
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 % mile % mile (1)
streets access median openin
Continuous local streets '/ mile % mile % mile '/ mile %a mile
and collector streets
Minor arterials '/ mile % mile % mile '/ mile '/z 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 -de -sacs or short length streets (less than'/ 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 Count
• ;` Comprehensive Plan 2008
City of Oak Park Heights Page 117
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 2000, 2010, 2020, and 2030 is found below:
ALLOCATION OF FORECASTS TO TRAFFIC ANALYSIS ZONES TAZ
2000 2010 2020 2030
TAZ Pop HH Emp Pop I HH Emp Pop I HH Emp Pop HH Em
1130 1,707 690 1,025 3,200 1,280 1,500 3,300 1,400 1,825 3,575 1,550 2,150
1132 1,100 450 700 1,300 500 700 1,100 470 800 1,000 450 900
1134 770 308 850 750 300 950 700 300 1,0001 675 300 1,050
1135 1 200 80 175 250 100 200 200 90 225 200 90 250
1197 1 0 0 250 0 0 1 550 100 40 650 250 1 110 750
Total 1 3,777 1 1,528 1 3,000 1 5,500 2,180 1 3,900 1 5,400 1 2,300 4,500 5,700 1 2,500 5,100
Source: Metropolitan Council •
Pop = Population Forecasts HH = Households Forecasts Emp = Employment Forecasts
ST. CROIX RIVER CROSSING / HIGHWAY 36
The City will continue to work with Mn /DOT on plans and timing for the bridge and
improvements to Highway 36. The City recognizes the benefit of the bridge to the
residents of Oak Park Heights and the St. Croix Valley, but will not provide municipal
consent until such time as there is agreement between the two parties on remaining
issues. The most critical issue is moving City utility lines within the corridor and the
costs associated with that portion of the project.
Without construction of the bridge in the near future, the City will also need to work with
Mn /DOT on issues related to frontage roads and critical Highway 36 intersections within
the City. The at -grade crossings at Norell Avenue, Oakgreen Avenue, and 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.
Comprehensive Plan 2008 •
City of Oak Park Heights Page 118
• TRANSPORTATION PLAN
SYSTEM IMPROVEMENTS / EXTENSIONS
One of the most significant City issues within its roadway network is Oakgreen Avenue
and the need to rebuild the street to an urban section. A portion of the improvements
would be made by Mn /DOT as part of rebuilding the intersection of Oakgreen Avenue
and Highway 36. Recognizing that the Mn /DOT portion of the project may be a number
of years in the future, the City may elect to construct at least a portion of the roadway
earlier in conjunction with the residential development that continues in the area.
Intersection improvements at Norell and Osgood Avenues are also a priority that must
be resolved with Mn /DOT.
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
58 Street to Manning to complete this east/west corridor in the newer portion of the
City. The extension would also include bicycle and pedestrian trails to Manning.
Preservation of right -of -way within the existing City limits at this time will be necessary
for future completion of this corridor.
As part of the issues and opportunities discussion, residents and City officials noted that
• with increasing traffic volumes, the City and County would need to monitor traffic issues
on Osgood Avenue and Stagecoach Trail. Construction of the St. Croix River Crossing
would impact volumes but with increasing development to the south in Bayport and
Baytown Township, the City would need to work with the County in assuring adequate
and safe traffic flow on these roadways.
STREET RECONSTRUCTION PROGRAM
One of the transportation policies indicates a continuation of the street reconstruction
programs to maintain the local utility and street network. The City Council and City staff
will need to continue to maintain the condition of the City streets and determine a
timeline to complete the necessary sections of the network. As part of the budgeting
process, the City Council will also need to continue to set aside funds to eventually
complete this expensive rehabilitation program.
• 6 � . Comprehensive Plan 2008
City of Oak Park Heights Page 121
F'
TRANSPORTATION PLAN •
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 of the coal shipments via this rail line.
The 2030 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.
BUS / TRANSIT SERVICE
One of the issues raised by City officials and residents was the lack of mass transit •
options for people in Oak Park Heights and the St. Croix Valley. The service is only
designed to serve weekday commuters with no weekend trips. The 2030
Transportation Plan does not call for any significant changes to the level of service to
Oak Park Heights, but plans for a potential new park and ride facility at Highway 36 and
Highway 5, or expansion of the existing facility at the St. Croix Recreation Center in
Stillwater.
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 the St.
Croix Circulator. 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 2030 transit plans.
PEDESTRIAN / BICYCLE FACILITIES
The pedestrian and bicycle plan for the City is found in a separate section of this
Comprehensive Plan document.
Comprehensive Plan 2008 •
City of Oak Park Heights Page 122
• PARKS AND TRAILS -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 in the
Issues Identification phase of the process. Additionally, the policies were adopted to
reflect the community's direction in land use growth and the resulting need for additional
park land and facilities.
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.
GENERAL GOALS AND POLICIES
Goal 1: Plan and maintain an attractive and diverse system of parks that address
the park needs of all segments of the community.
• Policies:
A. Identify present and future park needs on a regular basis for evaluation by the
Parks Commission and City Council.
B. Prepare an overall parks and trail master plan that includes detailed plans for
each component of the park system.
C. Land for parks will be acquired, planned and developed according to a park
classification system which specifies the appropriate sizes, locations, service
areas and equipment to best serve the City.
D. Promote public participation in the park planning process.
E. Ensure that cash and land dedication is in compliance with the overall plan for
the City's park and trail system.
F. Utilize cash in lieu of park dedication in smaller subdivisions to be used for
development of larger City parks.
G. Coordinate park and trail planning and funding mechanisms to provide
pedestrian /bicycle access to and within parks.
H. Identify areas of the community lacking in park, recreational and trail facilities for
planning and programming of additional facilities and programs.
I. Identify sources of funds to be utilized for acquisition, i.e., park and trail
dedication fund, Capital Improvement Plan, bond issuance, grant programs, etc.
J. The inclusion of environmentally sensitive areas (river frontage, tree groupings,
native prairie, bluffs, unique vegetative associations, etc.) into park or trail
facilities should be considered.
Comprehensive Plan 2008
City of Oak Park Heights Page 147
PARKS AND TRAILS -GOALS AND POLICIES •
K. Consider acquiring land for parks /trails at an early date to meet long range needs
before development pressures render the property too expensive.
L. Encourage recreation programs and 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.
M. Coordinate facility development with the needs of community residents, athletic
associations, civic groups, etc.
N. Encourage year round use of park facilities.
O. Consider the long term costs of maintenance and operation in a facility's design
and development.
P. Provide for the efficient maintenance and operation of clean, orderly, controlled,
safe, and attractive parks and recreation areas.
Goal 2: Consider providing linkages within Oak Park Heights as well as to
neighboring communities and regional systems by a safe and convenient
multi -use trail /sidewalk system.
Policies:
A. Create a City -wide trail and sidewalk system designed to minimize conflicts
between pedestrians and motor vehicles.
B. Minimize park and trail /sidewalk construction costs by constructing trails in •
conjunction with State, County, and City street improvements.
C. Work with Mn /DOT on trail /sidewalk connections and construction as part of the
St. Croix River Crossing and Highway 36 improvements and with Washington
County and adjoining jurisdictions on providing trail connections.
D. Parks and trails /sidewalks shall be constructed on a priority basis, according to
Capital Improvement Plan /available funds with the following objectives:
1. Trails /sidewalks along major streets which focus on pedestrian and bicycle
safety and which provide direct access to City /regional destinations and
parks.
2. Trails /sidewalks that provide looping and interconnection within the City.
3. Trails /sidewalks that will serve the most intensely used areas.
4. Trail /sidewalk construction within existing parks and upon municipal
property.
5. Trail /sidewalk inclusion within new park/subdivision development.
6. Development of safe pedestrian trail /sidewalk crossings whether on grade,
below grade, or as overpasses.
E. Ensure that the proper right -of -way widths are dedicated for sidewalks and trails
during the subdivision process.
F. Develop an ongoing planning process for the establishment of trail /sidewalk
locations and maintenance of existing systems, and review the plans on a yearly
basis to ensure that the needs and priorities are up -to -date.
Comprehensive Plan 2008 •
City of Oak Park Heights Page 148
N �
� V
C
CL
e luadjeo a
(pauueld)
_ O Q.
ol puelsl pno��la�� a U
eL O
L
V
saunp c c p t /a� A co
VNS "OIJieJd 1.1.
sljn ;a!e';
X!010 _
I Guinea (Q L
Gnaq obello3 LL O CL
9L
O
U Y
lied 0 1e1S� 0 31V
ll
0 �
Lt o 6L U
co
n
s � cm
4 �g le Vajo alllea X
I.L I
od co
oW13 a )j
CY) a--
ueneS xiaO 'IS t L
cn m
e
214618H 9 a
lJBd Mel 9�
l
o Q
o p
q9 Cn
6 y�
cz
ss e 0 L—
_ Ile O
cz
L9 L
pleg VV��� L.L o