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HomeMy WebLinkAbout07-21-08 Parks Packet CITY OF OAK PARK HEIGHTS FILE COPY • PARKS COMMISSION MEETING AGENDA Monday, July 21, 2008 at 6:30 p.m. Autumn Hills Park Shelter (5697 Norwich Parkway) 1. Call to Order 11. Approval of Agenda III. Approve Parks Commission Minutes — June 16, 2008 (1) IV. Department / Commission Liaison Reports A. Arborist B. Public Works Director C. Other / Commission Liaison Report V. Visitors /Public Comment This is an opportunity for the public to address the Commission With questions or concerns not on the agenda. Please limit comments to three minutes. VI. Public Hearings • None V11. New Business A. Saint Croix Valley Athletic Association Use of Brekke Park Fields (2) B. Xeel Energy Fly Ash Site Expansion — h ?formation to be provided at the meeting VIII. Old Business A. Park and Trail Plan Update (3) IX. Informational A. Next Meeting: Monday, August 18, 2008, 6:30 p.m. at City Hall B. Council Representatives: Tuesday, July 22, 2008 — Commissioner Dougherty Tuesday, August 26, 2008 — Commissioner Estes X. Adjourn • Page 1 of 34 • This Page Is Left Intentionally Blank. 1 ,�.;, • • Page 2 of 34 CITY OF OAK PARK HEIGHTS • PARKS COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES Monday, June 16, 2008 1. Call to Order: Commissioner: Dougherty called the meeting to order at 6:34 p.m. present: COm111ISSloncrs Zeuli, Nelson and Wagner; City Administrator Johnson, Public Works Director Ozzello, Arborist Widin and Commission 1.1aison ;\-lcConlbcr. Absent. Conlrnissioner Estes. ii. Approval of Agenda: Commissioner Daugherty added "park Review" as New Business stern A. Commissioner %culi, seconded by Commissioner Nelson, tllm ?cd to approve the Agenda as amended. Carried 4 -0. Ill. Approve Parks Commission Minutes — - May 19. 2008,: Commissioner Zeuli, seconded b Commissioner Nelson, moved to approve the )\Minutes. Carried 4 -0. IV. I)epattrllent /C.ommisslon Liaison Retorts A. Arborist: Arborist Widin stated that there are a lot of grasses and wildflowers in the prairie restoration area. Widin stated that she will be checking; trails for risk trees as the sun progresses. She stated that she has received calls froth homeowners and has made site visits for insect and disease issues. Widin reminded residents to • contact her at City Hall if they notice any diseased trees. She stated that she will be putting together a tree planting list. Commissioner Nelson, seconded b }' Commissioner Zeuli, moved to approve the Arborist report. Carried 4 -0. B. Public Works Director:: Public Works Director Ozzello reported that the ball fields have been prepped and are in use. Ozzello stated that the park attendants have been out trinlnling. He stated that grass is growing well this sunnnler. Corrimissioner Nelson, seconded by Commissioner Zeuli, moved to approve the Public Works Director's Report. Carried 4 -0. C. Other: / Commission 1- iaison Reports: Commissioner Liaison I\1cComber read a letter that the City received front an individual who rented the shelter at Brekke Park connplinnenting staff, the park attendants, and the park system. V. Visitors /Public Cotnnlent: None VI. Public Hearings: None VI1. New Business: A. Park Review: Cornnnissioner Dougherty suggested exploring the idea of breaking up • the walkthrough by picking a park each month. Because it is difficult to find a time Page 3 of 34 Parks Commission Minutes June 16, 2008 Page 2 of i • when all commissioners can meet fora walkthrough, he suggested that the commissioners could walk through the park on their own prior to that month's meeting and the commission could discuss the park during the meeting. Dougherty also suggested that information about which park will be discussed at which meeting could be placed in the newsletter so that residents could submit concerns or attend a particular meeting to discuss the park the)' have concerns about. City Adoainistrator Johnson stated that another option is to hold the commission's regular meetings at a park. Commissioner Dougherty requested that the commissioners think about the suggestions and review at the next meeting. VIII. Old Business: A. Spring Parks Walkthrough List: Public Works Director ()zzcllo stated that he placed the list in the packet so commissioners would have a chance to review it before he put it into spreadsheet format. Commission Liaison McComber questioned 'whether the motion - sensor lights have been installed. Ozzello stated he will add that to the list. Commissioner Nelson suggested that the snore costly items be highlighted on the list. B. Disc C:,olf Coursc Proposal: City Administ:rator stated that he, Public Works Director Ozzello, and City Intern F conducted a walkthrough of the proposed course at Brekke Park. Johnson reported that Platon has raised approximately $5,500 • in sponsorships for the disc golf course. He stated that staff would be looking for a recommendation for the City Council to install the disc golf course with the general layout. Commissioner Geirli, seconded b) Commissioner Wagner, moved that the Parks Commission make a recommendation to the City Council to move forward with the plan as designated in the maps for the disc golf course, Carried 4 -0. C. 2008 Park and'frail Project Update: City Administrator Johnson stated that the Brekke Park trail bends south around the home instead of bending north to meet AD.A requirements and because there is a boulder: wall. The trail will terminate at that point and there will be picnic tables. He stated that the tree clearance has been con]pleted for that trail. He stated that the hockey rink work was to begin that week. He stated that the tennis court base has been remocred. He stated that the tennis court is the highest on the priority list because there is a 30 -day curing process for the final layer of the tennis court. IX. Informational: A. Next Meetina: Monday, July 21, 2008, 6:30 p.m. at City Hall D. Council Representatives: Tuesday, June 24, 2008 — Commissioner %euli "Tuesday, July 22, 2008 — Commissioner Dougherty • Page 4 of 34 Parks Commission Minutes • June 16, 2008 Page 3 of 3 X. ildiournment: Conirnissioner Nelson, secondcd by Commissioner %cull, moved to adjourn at 7 ;03 p.m. Carried 4 -0. Respectfully submitted, jcnnifer Thoen Administrative Secretary /Deputy Clerk • • Page 5 of 34 • This Page Is Left Intentionally Blank. • • Page 6 of 34 Saint Croix Valley Athletic Association P.O. Box 44 Stillwater, MN 55082 651 - 439 -9589 June 11, 2008 City of Oak Park Heights Attn: Parks Commission ` :( 14168 Oak Park Blvd. N. P.O. Box 2007 Oak Park Heights, MN 55082 To Whom It May Concern, The St. Croix Valley Athletic Association would like to reserve Brekke Park Fields Upper and Lower for our upcoming fall soccer season. We would need the fields reserved Monday - Thursday from 5:30 P.M. -8:30 P.M. and Saturday from 8:00 A.M. -2:30 P.M. from August 15 °i through October 11' 2008. Please confine with me that this is acceptable. The VAA has worked with the City of Oak Park Heights for a number of years and we greatly appreciate the opportunity to use your facilities. • Please respond to me in writing at the above address or by e -mail at colson(d,',, sm- livac.com with confirmation. Sincere Eric Olson VAA Soccer Commissioner • Page 7 of 34 • This Page Is Left Intentionally Blank. • Page 8 of 34 • �� NAM, NORTHWEST ASSOCIATED CONSULTANTS, INC. l 4800 Olson Memorial Highway, Suite 202, Golden Valley, MN 55422 ?" Telephone: 763.231.2555 Facsimile: 763.231.2561 planners @nacplanning.com "a MEMORANDUM TO: Eric Johnson FROM: Scott Richards DATE: July 15, 2008 RE: Oak Park Heights — Park and Trail Plan Update FILE NO: 798.16 Please find attached a proposed plan outline and a work program /timeline for completion of the Park and Trail Plan Update. The Parks Commission should review the outline and work program /timeline at their meeting on July 21, 2008 and indicate if • any changes should be made. As noted on the work program /timeline, the Parks Commission is to be assigned homework prior to the first meeting in August. The homework consists of the following: A. Review existing Park and Trail Plan. B. Review Park and Trail chapter from 2008 Comprehensive Plan Update (see attached). C. Distribute disposal cameras to Parks Commission. Group instructed to take photos of: 1. Park improvement needs /problem areas. 2. Best of the best of Oak Park Heights parks and trails. 3. Good examples of park and trail elements frorn other areas that could guide further development of Oak Park Heights park and trail system. A copy of the Park and Trail chapter of the 2008 Comprehensive Plan update is attached. Also please find enclosed a camera for you to take photos of parks and trails as directed above. We look forward to working with the Parks Commission on this project with the first meeting on August 18, 2008. • Page 9 of 34 • Oak Park Heights Park and Trail Plan Update Proposed plan outline 1. Inventory of existing plans, programs and facilities a. Other Jurisdictions (focus is on opportunities for trail connections and shared facilities (pool, YMCA, etc.) that meet city needs. i. Stillwater ii. Lake Elmo iii. Bayport iv. County /regional V. Schools vi. State Agencies vii. Private entities b. City of Oak Park Heights i. I3xisting Parks 1. Description of each park /site a. Text description b. Class type(frorn standard park classification system) • c. Aerial photo d. On- the - ground photos e. Physical Issues /needs assessment for each park (here or below in Issues Chapter ?) 2. Matrix of existing features /amenities for all parks (see IrNM page 24) ii. Existing Trails (maior sections /segments) 1. Description of each section /segment a. Text description b. Class type c. On -the- ground photo d. Physical issues /needs assessment for each segment (here or below in issues chapter ?) 2. Planning Issues a. Overall planning issues b. Individual Park issues (here or above ?) c. Individual Trail issues (here or above ?) d. Programming e. Design- development f Maintenance g. Acquisition • h. other Page 10 of 34 • 3. Goals & Policies a. Planning b. Programming c. Design /development d. Maintenance c. Acquisition f. Other 4. Park and Trail Plan a. Vision & Guiding Principles b. Parks — Classification and Standards (by park type) i. Description & purpose ii. Location and service area iii. Size & location iv. Facilities and amenities v. Suggested improvements for each park c. "Trails — Classification and Standards (by trail type) i. Description & purpose ii. Route selection criteria iii. Facilities and amenities iv. Suggested new links and other improvements • 5. Implementation a. Implementation strategies i. Acquisition ii. Dedication fees iii. Other funding options iv. Capital improvement process v. Community education vi. Slgnage b. Priority action steps with time frame. • Page 11 of 34 • Proposed Planning Work Process Underlined dates represent an estimate of a Completion date. July 18 1. NAC to snap facilities /trails from other jurisdictions (if something other than maps on page 145 and 153 of 2008 CP update needed. July 21 2. Assign homework to Parks Commission prior to fast meeting a. Review existing Park and Trail Plan b. Review Park and frail chapter from 2008 CP update c. Distribute disposable cameras to Parks Commission. Group instructed to take photos of: i. Park improvement needs /problem areas ii. Best of the best of OPl1 parks and trails iii. Good examples of park and trail elements from other areas that could guide further development of OPH's park and trail system. Aup,ust 18 3. first meeting with Parks Commission • a. Conduct needs assessment/improvements needed for individual parks and trails (segments to be completed, other improvements). To be completed through use of maps and sketches from existing plans and aerial photos and photos taken by Parks Commission. b. Update goals and policies through review of: i. Existing plan ii. Park and "Frail chapter of 2008 CP update. e. Identify major design /development issues (to prioritize NAC work and future meeting; agendas). Could include: i. Completing trail connections ii. Xcel ash disposal site iii. Integration of trails with Hwy 36 reconstruction and connections with Stillwater, Lake l"l►no, and Baytown Township. iv. Trail opportunities in addressing neighborhood /commercial transitions (from CP update) v. hnproving river access (from CP update) Page 12 of 34 • Am-wst 29 4. NAC to prepare /revise chapters after results of I" meeting: a. Inventory text, maps & sketches. b. Development Issues and needs c. Goals and Policies d. Sketches of parks showing improvements completed and others still needed. e. Vision and Guiding principles Seotember 15 5. Second meeting with Parks Commission. a. Review and comment on NAC revisions to plan chapters (item 5 above) b. Focus on priority design /development issues. (See 4.e above) NAC could help prepare Parks Commission for this discussion through organization and presentation of: • Photos taken by Parks Commission • Sample cross sections (design standards) of trail types • Photos /site plans of existing parks /trails that could support envisioning development of similar facilities in OPH (i.e. NSP site, Hwy 36) . • Maps with Contours • Aerial photos Seotember 26 6. NAC to draft and sketch design standards responding to output of 2 " meeting. October 10 7. NAC to draft all plan chapters October 20 S. Third meeting with Parks Commission a. Review text and sketches of design standards. b. Review and comment on plan draft c. Prioritize action steps for implementation chapter. November 7 9. NAC to make revisions to plan November 17 • 10. Fourth meeting with Parks Commission to finalize plan. Page 13 of 34 • This Page Is Left Intentionally Blank. 1 s.. • • Page 14 of 34 • • Parks and Trails Comprehensive Plan 2008 Page 15 of 34 • PARKS AND TRAILS - INTRODUCTION INTRODUCTION The issues identification process identified a strong desire by community leaders and residents to continue improving the existing park and trail system. Park improvements, additional park land, and trail connections were all discussed by the public and City officials. The goals and policies, as well as the plan, address the issues identified as part of the comprehensive planning process. The City recognizes that the community is almost completely built out and new park land will not be created as a result of land subdivision. Three areas, the Xcel Ash Disposal Facility, the newly acquired property adjacent to Brekke Park, and a possible boat landing next to the St. Croix River would serve as new park areas within the City. The continuing emphasis in coming years will be on improvements within the existing parks and trail connections within the City and with surrounding communities and regional trails. The following section is only a summary of the issues, goals, policies, and plans of the Park and Trail Plan. That plan, which updates the 1999 Comprehensive Park and Trail System Plan, will be completed in early 2008. • Comprehensive Plan 2008 f ,'t `r: • City of Oak Park Heights Page 141 . t •i• Page 16 of 34 • PARKS AND TRAILS - PHYSICAL PROFILE EXISTING PARKS AND TRAILS The Oak Park Heights park system offers numerous City parks distributed throughout the City and a trail system that nearly connects all parts of the community. The park facilities offer a full range of recreational activities. A list of the existing parks is as follows. A map of the existing park and trail locations is found on a following page. The City of Oak Park Heights contains five established parks. The parks vary in size, location, and service. Parks play an important role, not only in their overall recreational benefit to the residents of Oak Park Heights but as a crucial destination point directly related to the establishment of trails. All are interrelated and each portion from the park land itself, all the way down to a single picnic table or foot of trail, plays an important role in completing a recreational link, therefore adding to the comprehensive system. Valley View Park is the largest park within the City and is intended as a City -wide passive park for hikers, picnics and nature. It is viewed by the City as a very unique and positive amenity in the community given its dense vegetation, variation in topography, wetlands, and array of existing and potential uses. The park is an important link between the east portion of the City and Osgood Avenue (via its entrance • drive, and /or through Brekke Heights or Valley View Estates residential subdivisions). Adjacent to the Valley View Park is the Allen S. King Plant ash disposal facility. Xcel Energy has closed portions of the disposal facility and created a trail system within the site. The City will continue to work with Xcel Energy to create a possible recreational facility when the disposal site is closed by 2010. Brekke Park is a high quality, intensively utilized City park intended as an active area for field games and a playground area for toddler age and older. It is located adjacent to State of Minnesota land controlled by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and serves as a community playfield for residents in the south central portion of the City, primarily between Osgood and Oakgreen Avenues. The City will continue to work with the DNR to allow utilization of the property for open space, limited recreation and trails. In 2007, the City purchased the property at 5502 Osgood Avenue, adjacent to Brekke Park. The City will include plans for the new park land in its complete update of the Park and Trail Plan in 2008. Swager Park serves as a neighborhood playground along the linear park system. The park is fairly centralized within the community and is located within a Xcel Energy easement. A trail has been constructed within the easement from just east of Swager Park, through the City to Highway 5. • - Comprehensive Plan 2008, City of Oak Park Heights Page 142 Page 17 of 34 • PARKS AND TRAILS - PHYSICAL PROFILE Cover Park is the oldest and smallest park in the City and provides an active area for residents in the Village of Oak Park Heights neighborhoods who are otherwise somewhat segregated from the north and western portions of the City. Autumn Hills Park and Haase Recreational Area serves as a neighborhood park and is surrounded by the Boutwells Landing senior community. The park serves as a focal point for residents from all areas of the City with the large play equipment area and the new park shelter with restrooms constructed in 2007. The recreational area features trails, utilities and natural areas adjacent to the Autumn Hills neighborhood and the Environment Living Center of the Stillwater Area High School. On the following page is a list of the existing park components for each of the five City parks. The map on a following page indicates the existing park and trail system. Efforts in recent years have been to complete the connections between parks and throughout the community. Additionally, as part of all residential and commercial development, new sidewalk and trail connections have been added. • Comurehensive Plan 2008, City of Oak Park Heights Page 143 • Page 18 of 34 • PARKS AND 'TRAILS - PHYSICAL PROFILE EXISTING PARK COMPONENTS Valley Brekke Swager Cover Autumn View Park Park Park Hills Park Park Size 65 acres 13 acres 1.4 acres 1 acre 24 acres Picnic Shelter witthath , with bath with bath ADA access ADA access Baseball /Softball V Hockey Rink frees ate free / skate Warming House with shelter ADA access with bath with shelter 1 Basketball Court" Tennis Courts • Soccer /Open Field youton Fall Play Set .j,�'� v Swing Set Spring Animal' Horseshoe Pit ,f Grills Picnic Tables y r Bench /Seat , Bike Rack /Stand 'we , Trail /Path Connection V Trees /Shrubs Signage Source City of Oak Park Heights M1 p Comprehensive Plan 2008, • "`' ' City of Oak Park Heights Page 144 Page 19 of 34 N_ it �1 ! i J/ (?'���•, WWI : �\ " " : I ' If' I ILIJ e r W'J �. 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City Limits 0 0.25 0.5 F.W Ass°oa cd COns uganls Pa a 145 Fcbruarv. 20Q6 Q -T W • • • • 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. Comwreliensive Plan 2008 •' _ r` City of Oak Park Heights Page 147 ' T L Page 21 of 34 • 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. 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. r Comprehensive Plan 2008 City of Oak Park Heights Page 148 • Page 22 of 34 • PARKS AND TRAILS PLAN PARK FACILITIES AND TRAILS The residents of Oak Park Heights are rightfully proud of their extensive system of City parks and recreational facilities, While most of the existing areas and neighborhoods are served with park facilities, the Issues Identification process indicated that certain needs were not being met. When the full Park and Trail Plan is updated in 2008, additional input will be sought by the public and City officials in potential park needs. Within the Issues Identification section of the Comprehensive Plan, a list of potential projects was identified. 1. Extension of Brekke Park into adjacent single family property. In 2007, the City purchased the property at 5502 Osgood Avenue for park use. The three acre parcel is located adjacent to Brekke Park and across Osgood Avenue from the entrance area to Valley View Park. The Park Commission will be considering potential uses for this area and ways to provide connections between the two parks as part of the Park and Trail Plan update in 2008. 2. Park /trail development on the Xcel Ash Facility. • The City will continue to work with Xcel Energy for development of the area for open space and recreational areas. The facility will be completely capped by 2010, allowing a number of passive and active uses on the property. 3. Development of a dog park. The City will consider this as part of the Park and Trail Plan update in 2008. 4. Development of a skate park. The City would consider this as part of the Park and Trail Plan update in 2008. 5. Possible construction of a community swimming pool /regional recreational facility. A swimming pool would be a significant monetary investment, both in terms of construction costs and long term maintenance. The City is working with nearby jurisdictions on development of a regional recreational facility that would likely be located in Lake Elmo and include swimming facilities. M1� 5c Comprehensive Plan 2008. City of Oak Park Heights Page 149 Page 23 of 34 • PARKS AND TRAILS PLAN 6. Identify and close gaps in the trail system. The City will continue to work toward completion of the trail system and closing off existing gaps. In 2007, the City completed significant segments of the trail system as reflected in the Existing Park and Trail Systems Map. The Proposed Park and Trail Plan identifies those segments that are yet to be completed. 7. Develop traits along Oakgreen Avenue. In the Fall of 2007, the City authorized the construction of a trail segment between 55 and 56 Street North on the west side of Oakgreen Avenue. The City had already completed the segment between the linear trail and 56 Street North earlier in the year. The City will make a priority of completing trail segments and connections north of 58 Street on Oakgreen Avenue. 8. Provide a trail connection to Manning Avenue and to regional trail connections. The trail connection from 58 Street to Manning Avenue will occur only if the properties are annexed to the City or there is cooperation with Lake Elmo to • complete this connection. Right -of -way within Oak Park Heights should be secured to assure this access. Regional trail connections will be addressed in the Park and Trail Plan update. 9. Provide trail connections into the DNR property along and across Osgood Avenue. The City will continue to work with the DNR on possible trail development into and within the DNR property. The City will also work on providing a crosswalk on Osgood Avenue to connect Brekke and Valley View Parks. Development of a tunnel under Osgood is also in the long range plans. 10. Develop recreational programs within the City park system. Provide programs for older children. The City has not pursued recreational programs for its parks in the past. This should be discussed by the Park Commission. Cooperation with the School District and other organizations in the community that provide existing programs may be the preferred method of providing recreational programs. ' Comprehensive Plan 2008 City of Oak Park Heights Page 150 • Page 24 of 34 • PARKS AND TRAILS PLAN REGIONAL PARKS AND TRAILS The map on the following page indicates the regional park and trail systems in the St. Croix Valley near Oak Park Heights. The City will work with Washington County and Mn /DOT in providing trail connections from the City's system of trails. The City will also look to provide trail connections and encourage the development of the Minnesota Zephyr rail line into a trail that would connect Oak Park Heights to Stillwater. TRAILS The Proposed Parks and Trails Map will be created as part of the update to the Comprehensive Park and Trail System Plan. The Issues Identification process indicated that there is a strong desire to continue the interconnection of neighborhoods, schools, commercial areas, public facilities, and parks. City staff has indicated that trails will be added as part of any City street projects, where possible, and as part of new and redeveloped commercial projects. The City will also work with Mn /DOT and Washington County on roadway upgrade projects, especially as it relates to the St. Croix River Crossing and Highway 36 improvements for trail development. . The trail plan will provide for the interconnection of neighborhoods, parks, schools and commercial areas. Emphasis shall be placed on a trail system that connects all areas of the community and interconnects to regional trail systems. The City will develop a more comprehensive trail plan that provides details on trail development, including specifications and an implementation plan for programming development of the system. Development of a comprehensive bicycle and pedestrian trail system plan as part of a park and trail system plan for the community should incorporate the following: 1. Include trail routes within and interconnections to the areas planned for annexation. 2. Connections to and linking neighborhoods with the commercial and industrial/ business park areas of the City. 3. Trail routes along major streets that have the most direct access to primary pedestrian destinations. 4. Where trails will connect neighborhoods to schools. 5. Where trails will serve commuter destinations. 6. Where trails lead to parks, playfields and other recreational facilities. 7. Where trails will link together separate portions of the sidewalks and trail systems with each other. 8. Where trails provide access to future regional trails. •r , >: Comprehensive flan 2008 City of Oak Park Heights Page 151 Page 25 of 34 • PARKS AND TRAILS PLAN • Comprehensive flan 2008, City of Oak Park Heights Pale 152 • "k 'P �J Page 26 of 34 i Y N L y , - IL CD " ", " `mil • , \ 0 ZE AL ffi : f' , i E' 3 3 ,. E E Was hington Existing Parks & Open Space Bikeways & Regional Trails City of Oak Park Heights county 10 Regional Parks Regional Trails Comprehensive Plan <_? State Parks State Trails Washington County City of Oak Park Heights W _ _ Z Parks, Trails, & Open Space v Private Non - Profit Parks — Bikeways c� n.:.... <o..n,...., r Miles O I 2.5 S • 1 ii10 nor. es: A:so •rtl CnxJ;on: : "i -- O FeErlry, 2CCE Paoe }55 W Jhl • PARKS AN]) 'TRAILS PLAN PARK CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM The future park lands within Oak Park Heights should be planned under a park classification system as part of a proposed Park and Trail System Plan. Using the identification system to program the level of development for each of the eventual parks will assist the City in planning for and scheduling the funding for completion of the facilities. Also, planning for types of park facilities and open space will maximize the use of park dedication funds. A park classification system is intended to serve as a guide to planning, not as a blueprint. Sometimes more than one component may occur within the same site, particularly with regard to a specialized use within a larger park. Based upon national standards, a park system, at minimum, should be comprised of a core system of park lands with a total of approximately 10 acres of open space for 1,000 population. The City of Oak Park Heights offers more than 22 acres of park land for 1,000 population, a major benefit to the residents of the community. A listing and short description of park classifications is as follows: Neigh>a _--- -- 'Rlayg u� >.... , __ -- _ • Use ^ Designed to provide mainly passive activities with some active short -term activities Service Area Neighborhood size of 1,000 to 5,000 persons, within 1 /4 to % mile Population Served Ages 5 to 15, with informal recreation for groups of all ages j D esirable Size 1 to 5 acres Acres /1,000 Population 1.0 — 2.0 acres Site Characteristics Open space for spontaneous play, play areas for both pre - school and school age children, multiple -use paved areas, limited field games, small court games, ice rinks, within easy walking /biking distance Existing Playgrounds Swager and Cover P arks Comprehensive Plan 2008 City of Oak Park Heights Pate 155 • Page 28 of 34 • PARKS AND TRAILS PLAN Neighbor -Parks Use Area for designated active and passive recreation areas Service Area '/2 to 1 mile radius to serve a population of up to 5,000 persons (a large neighborhood) Population Served Focus upon ages 5 through 39 with emphasis upon ages 5 through 18 Desirable Size 5 to 10 acres Acres /1,000 Population 1 — 2.0 ac res Site Characteristics Suited for multi -use recreation development, easily accessible to neighborhood population, geographically centered with safe walking and bike access, may include school facilities Existing Parks Autum Hills Par • ` Community Playfields.: Use A large recreation area with primarily athletic facilities designed to serve older children and adults Service Area 1 to 1' /z miles for urban areas /unlimited for rural communities, a minimum of one per community up to 30,000 maximum population Population Served All persons with focus upon ages 20 to 39 ;Desirable Size 10 to 25 acres Acres /1,000 Population 2.0-- 5.0 acres j Site Characteristics Athletic complex including lighting court and field games, community center or indoor recreation facility, swimming pool, ice rink, capacity for special events, must include support elements such as rest rooms, j drinking water, parking and lighting Existing Playfields Brekke Park f • �* Comorehensive flan 2008 ,r City of Oak Park 1 !eights Page 156 r. Page 29 of 34 PARKS AND TRAILS PLAN • I Community Park Use Area of diverse environmental quality which may include areas suited to intense recreational facilities such as athletic complexes, as well as passive type areas, depends largely upon the site location, suitability and community need Service Area Several neighborhoods, 1 to 4 mile radius for urban areas /unlimited for rural communities Population Served All ages, toddler to retiree, entire community for cities up to 25,000 Desirable Size 20 to 35+ acres Acres /1,000 Population 5.0 -- 10.0 acres Site Characteristics Provides for a combination of intensive and non - intensive development ranging from play equipment to trails, may include natural features, such as water bodies or forested land, must include support elements such as rest rooms, drinking water, parking and lighting Existing Parks Valley View Park, Xcel site in conjunction with Valley • View will also be a community park Natural 1.Corisarvancy;Areas - - - - - -- - - -- -- - - _ - - -- --- - - - - -- - . - - Use Protection and management of the natural /cultural environment with recreational use as a secondary objective Service Area No applicable standard ) Desirable Size Sufficient to protect the resource and accommodate recreational uses Acres /1,000 Population Variable Site Characteristics Variable, depending upon the resource being protected Existing Parks Valley View (portions of this park are left in a natural state ) _ ?-s Comprehensive Plan 2008, City of Oak Park i leights Page 157 • ' r Page 30 of 34 • PARKS AND TRAILS PLAN 'Schoois Use Facilities developed in association with schools which are intended for children's educational and recreational instruction, which on a secondary basis, provide opportunities for community residents, this shared usage is positive in that it allows for daytime usage by students, evening, weekend, and su mmer usage by all Schools Oak Park Elementary (in Stillwater), Stillwater Area High School, and the Environmental Learning Center Facilities Oak Park Elementary has three small baseball fields, a field that is sometimes used for soccer, a small basketball court, and a playground. Stillwater Area High School has facilities for softball, baseball, football, soccer, tennis and track. i • The Environmental Learning Center provides edu cational tra ining regarding envi topi r' Comprehensive Plan 2008 • �, "" "• City of Oak I'ar1< Heights Page 158 �z k Page 31 of 34 • This Page Is Left intentionally Blank. • • Page 32 of 34 • Oak Park Heights Park & Trail Plan Update Park & Trail Assessment (Photo Exercise) The purpose of this exercise is to document physical improvements needed within the City's park and trail system and to help illustrate a vision for the system's future. The intent of this project is to help define what the future park and trail system should look like through pictures and descriptive words. Future planning meetings will use these pictures to structure discussion. Some photos will be included in the updated plan. Instructions: Each camera has 26 or 27 exposures. Take pictures that address the following three Topic Areas: 1. Park & trail improvement needs /problem areas. 2. Best of the best of OPH parks and trails. 3. Good examples of park and trail elements from other areas (outside of OPH) that could guide further development of OPH's park and trail system. • Take the camera with you in your car or as you walk or ride your bike. Please use the log sheet on the back side of this page to document your photos. Document each photo by Topic Area Number (i.e. 1, 2, or 3), as well as other comments to help explain the image. Deadline: Please turn in the camera and log sheet at City Hall by noon on Thursday July 31. Next Steps: The pictures will be organized and reviewed by NAC and presented back to the Parks Commission for discussion and evaluation at future meetings. • Page 33 of 34 Photo Log Name: Camera # Image # Topic Area Comments (Location, issue, other comments) • Number 1 2 l 3 4 5 6 7 l 8 9 10 i 11 1 f 12 13 14 • 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 ( • Page 34 of 34