THREE RIVERS PARK DISTRICT

Transcription

1 THREE RIVERS PARK DISTRICT INTERGOVERNMENTAL AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT COMMITTEE MEETING Administrative Center - Board Room 3000 Xenium Lane North, Plymouth, MN 1. CALL TO ORDER Thursday, November 6, 2014 Estimated Time: 11:15 a.m. 12:00 p.m. (noon) Committee Chair: Jennifer DeJournett AGENDA 2. APPROVAL OF AGENDA Board members who wish to delete or add any item(s) to the agenda shall do so at this time. Superintendent s Recommendation: MOTION TO APPROVE THE AGENDA OF THE NOVEMBER 6, 2014, INTERGOVERNMENTAL AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT COMMITTEE MEETING. 3. APPROVAL OF COMMITTEE REPORT OF OCTOBER 2, 2014 Superintendent s Recommendation: MOTION TO APPROVE THE REPORT OF THE OCTOBER 2, 2014, INTERGOVERNMENTAL AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT COMMITTEE MEETING. 4. BUSINESS ITEM(S) A. Little Long Lake Regional Trail Master Plan Release for Public Comments Superintendent s Recommendation: MOTION TO RECOMMEND THAT THE BOARD APPROVE THE DRAFT LITTLE LONG LAKE REGIONAL TRAIL MASTER PLAN AND AUTHORIZE THE SUPERINTENDENT TO: 1. RELEASE THE DRAFT MASTER PLAN FOR REVIEW AND COMMENT BEGINNING ON NOVEMBER 24, 2014; 2. SOLICIT MASTER PLAN APPROVAL AND RESOLUTION OF SUPPORT FROM CITIES AND TOWNSHIPS; AND 3. SOLICIT MASTER PLAN APPROVAL FROM THE METROPOLITAN COUNCIL. B. Update on External Projects with Park/Trail Impacts Superintendent s Recommendation: NO ACTION REQUIRED; THIS ITEM IS FOR INFORMATION AND DISCUSSION.

2 11/06/14 Intergovernmental and Community Engagement Committee: Agenda Page 2 4. BUSINESS ITEM(S) (continued) C. Community Outreach Initiatives Update Superintendent s Recommendation: NO ACTION REQUIRED; THIS ITEM IS FOR INFORMATION AND DISCUSSION. D. Joint Board Meeting with Scott County Superintendent s Recommendation: MOTION TO RECOMMEND THAT THE BOARD APPROVE CONDUCTING THREE RIVERS PARK DISTRICT COMMITTEE MEETINGS ON DECEMBER 4, 2014, STARTING AT 10:00 A.M. AT RICHARDSON NATURE CENTER LOCATED IN HYLAND LAKE PARK RESERVE FOLLOWED BY A JOINT BOARD MEETING BETWEEN THREE RIVERS PARK DISTRICT AND SCOTT COUNTY BOARDS AT 12:00 P.M. (NOON). E. Legislative Consultant Interviews Superintendent s Recommendation: NO ACTION REQUIRED; THIS ITEM IS FOR INFORMATION AND DISCUSSION. 5. ADJOURNMENT MOTION TO ADJOURN.

3 INTERGOVERNMENTAL AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT COMMITTEE MEETING REQUEST FOR ACTION Meeting Date: 11/06/14 Business Item: Report Item Number: 3 Department: Superintendent's Office Originating Source: Boe Carlson, Superintendent Agenda Item: October 2, 2014 Intergovernmental and Community Engagement Committee Report Superintendent s Recommendation: MOTION TO APPROVE THE REPORT OF THE OCTOBER 2, 2014, INTERGOVERNMENTAL AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT COMMITTEE MEETING. Background: Report attached.

4 THREE RIVERS PARK DISTRICT INTERGOVERNMENTAL AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT COMMITTEE MEETING October 2, 2014 Commissioners Present: Commissioners Absent: Jennifer DeJournett, Chair; Larry Blackstad, Daniel Freeman, John Gibbs, John Gunyou and Penny Steele Steven E. Antolak Staff Present: Boe Carlson, Superintendent; J. Brauchle, H. Koolick, K. Lynch, P. Maher, D. McCullough, J. McDowell, T. McDowell, J. Vlaming, B. Walker and L. Ziegler 1. CALL TO ORDER The Intergovernmental and Community Engagement Committee meeting was called to order by Chair Jennifer DeJournett at the Administrative Center, Board Room, 3000 Xenium Lane North, Plymouth, MN at 9:11 a.m. 2. APPROVAL OF AGENDA MOTION by Freeman, seconded by Steele, TO APPROVE THE AGENDA OF THE OCTOBER 2, 2014, INTERGOVERNMENTAL AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT COMMITTEE MEETING. MOTION CARRIED 3. APPROVAL OF COMMITTEE REPORT OF JULY 10, 2014 MOTION by Freeman, seconded by Gibbs, TO APPROVE THE REPORT OF THE JULY 10, 2014, INTERGOVERNMENTAL AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT COMMITTEE MEETING. 4. BUSINESS ITEM(S) A. Metropolitan Council Regional Parks Policy Plan Draft Comments MOTION CARRIED No action required; this item was prepared by Associate Superintendent Jonathan Vlaming for information and discussion. B. Legislative Consultant Services MOTION by Freeman, seconded by Steele, TO RECOMMEND THAT THE BOARD INTERVIEW THE FIRMS OF LARKIN HOFFMAN AND FAEGRE BAKER DANIELS, LLP TO PROVIDE LEGISLATIVE CONSULTANT SERVICES. After discussion, Commissioner Freeman withdrew the motion. MOTION WITHDRAWN

5 10/02/14 Intergovernmental and Community Engagement Committee Page 2 The following motion was proposed. MOTION by Blackstad, seconded by Steele, TO RECOMMEND THAT THE BOARD AUTHORIZE THE SUPERINTENDENT TO DEVELOP AND RELEASE A REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL (RFP) FOR LEGISLATIVE CONSULTANT SERVICES WITH A 15 DAY RESPONSE PERIOD. 5. ADJOURNMENT MOTION CARRIED MOTION by Steele, seconded by Freeman, TO ADJOURN THE OCTOBER 2, 2014, MEETING OF THE INTERGOVERNMENTAL AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT COMMITTEE. The meeting was adjourned at 10:05 a.m. MOTION CARRIED

6 INTERGOVERNMENTAL AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT COMMITTEE REQUEST FOR ACTION Meeting Date: 11/06/14 Business Item: Old Item Number: 4A Division: Planning, Design & Technology Originating Source: Jonathan Vlaming, Assoc. Supt. Agenda Item: Little Long Lake Regional Trail Master Plan Release for Public Comments Superintendent s Recommendation: MOTION TO RECOMMEND THAT THE BOARD APPROVE THE DRAFT LITTLE LONG LAKE REGIONAL TRAIL MASTER PLAN AND AUTHORIZE THE SUPERINTENDENT TO: 1. RELEASE THE DRAFT MASTER PLAN FOR REVIEW AND COMMENT BEGINNING ON NOVEMBER 24, 2014; 2. SOLICIT MASTER PLAN APPROVAL AND RESOLUTION OF SUPPORT FROM CITIES AND TOWNSHIPS; AND 3. SOLICIT MASTER PLAN APPROVAL FROM THE METROPOLITAN COUNCIL. The following information was prepared by Ann Rexine, Planner. Background: The master planning process for the future 17-mile Little Long Lake Regional Trail spanning the communities of Medina, Maple Plain, Independence, Minnetrista, Laketown Township, and Victoria is complete. Staff worked closely with the cities most directly affected by the regional trail (Maple Plain, Independence, and Minnetrista) to conduct a thorough planning and engineering analysis, solicit public feedback, and engage appointed and elected officials in the evaluation of several potential regional trail routes. The portions of the trail through Medina, Laketown Township and Victoria are located entirely within Baker and Carver Park Reserves, and as such, outreach has been limited but will increase as part of the planned public comment process. The draft master plan is based on the regional trail s primary intent to: Connect Baker Park Reserve, Lake Independence Regional Trail, Luce Line State Trail, Kingswood Park, Dakota Rail Regional Trail, Gale Woods Farm, Lake Minnetonka Regional Park, Carver Park Reserve, and Lake Minnetonka LRT Regional Trail. Provide opportunities for high-quality recreation. Upon Board approval, the Draft Master Plan (Reference 4A-1) will be available for review and comment from November 24, 2014 to December 31, 2014, and accessible to the public on the Park District web site, at the Administrative Center, local libraries, several Park District Visitor and Nature Centers, and other local governmental agencies. If there are no significant changes to the draft master plan as a result of the public comment period, the draft master plan will be forwarded to the City of Medina, City of Minnetrista, City of Maple Plain, City of Independence, Laketown Township, City of Victoria,

7 and Metropolitan Council for formal approval, followed by final review and approval by the Park District Board of Commissioners. Relationship to the Vision The Request for Action supports the following goals of the Vision Plan: Inspire people to recreate Connect people to nature Create vibrant places Work with local and regional partners to finalize the long-range regional trail network within Hennepin County Relationship to Policy Statement The Request for Action supports the following elements of the Policy Plan: Policy IV-c: Regional Trails Policy IX-b: General Interest Recreation Activities

8 Reference 4A-1 Unnamed Regional Trail master plan public review draft November 2014

9 the mission of Three Rivers Park District is to promote environmental stewardship through recreation and education in a natural resources-based park system. Three Rivers Park District was established in 1957 after legislation was enacted in 1955 allowing for the activation of park districts whose primary duties are acquisition, development and maintenance of large parks, wildlife sanctuaries, forest and other reservations, and means for public access to historic sites and to lakes, rivers and streams and to other natural phenomena (Minnesota State Statutes, Chapter ). There are more than 10 million annual visits to more than 26,500 acres of park reserves, regional parks and special-use areas in Hennepin and five adjoining counties and 120 miles of regional trails. Current outdoorrecreation activities in regional parks and trails include camping, hiking, cross-country and downhill skiing, tubing, bicycling, in-line skating, horseback riding, nature interpretation, golfing, fishing and swimming. Three Rivers Park District also operates a natural resources management program, which administers the restoration and perpetuation of both native wildlife and plants in order to provide park and trail visitors opportunities for high-quality recreational experiences. Board of Commissioners Penny Steele, District 1 Term Expires 12/31/16 Corcoran, Greenfield, Hanover, Independence, Long Lake, Loretto, Maple Plain, Medicine Lake, Medina, Minnetrista, Minnetonka Beach, Mound, New Hope, Orono (precincts 1, 3 & 4), Plymouth, Rockford, Rogers, Spring Park, St. Bonifacius, Wayzata Jennifer DeJournett, District 2 Term Expires 12/31/14 Brooklyn Park (all precincts except W1-0 & W1-R), Champlin, Dayton, Maple Grove, Osseo Daniel Freeman, Vice Chair, District 3 Term Expires 12/31/16 Brooklyn Center, Brooklyn Park (only precincts W1-0 & W1-R), Crystal, Golden Valley, Hopkins (precinct 2), Robbinsdale, St. Anthony, St. Louis Park John Gunyou, Chair, District 4 Term Expires 12/31/14 Deephaven, Edina, Excelsior, Greenwood, Hopkins (all precincts except 2), Minnetonka, Orono (precinct 2), Richfield (all precincts except 6 & 9), Shorewood, Tonka Bay, Woodland John Gibbs, District 5 Term Expires 12/31/16 Bloomington, Chanhassen, Eden Prairie, Fort Snelling, Richfield (precincts 6 & 9) Larry Blackstad, Hennepin County Appointee Term Expires 12/31/14 Serves at large Steven Antolak, Hennepin County Appointee Term Expires 12/31/16 Serves at large ii Three Rivers Park District

10 Acknowledgements Three Rivers Park District (Park District) gratefully acknowledges the staff, community members and other participants who contributed to the Insert Name Regional Trail Master Plan. The Park District extends a special thank you to the individuals listed below who provided guidance, time, questions, and critical insight throughout the process. City Representatives City of Minnetrista David Abel, Community Development Director City of Independence Toni Hirsch, City Administrator City of Maple Plain Tessia Melvin, City Administrator (present) Jason Ziemer, City Administrator (former) Park District Leadership Staff Boe R. Carlson, Superintendent and Secretary to the Board Thomas K. McDowell, Associate Superintendent Division of Recreation, Education & Natural Resources Jonathan Vlaming, Associate Superintendent Division of Planning, Design & Technology Park District Project Staff Ann Rexine, Planner Eric Nelson, Senior Manager of Engineering Heather Kuikka, Planning Administrative Specialist Kelly Grissman, Director of Planning Stephen Shurson, Landscape Architect Agency Representatives MN Department of Natural Resources Laura Preus, Natural Resources Program Manager Hennepin County Department of Transportation Bob Byers, P.E. Insert Name Regional Trail Master Plan, November 2014 iii

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12 Executive Summary The Insert Name Regional Trail will fill a gap in the regional park and trail system with a safe, accessible and enjoyable recreation and alternative transportation option. Currently, southwestern suburban Hennepin County residents do not have access to a convenient and attractive off-road regional trail that supports a north/south connection. The Insert Name Regional Trail will expand recreational access to park and trail facilities, residential neighborhoods, commercial nodes and downtown Maple Plain - which in turn supports bicycle and pedestrian mobility and economic development. When completed, the trail will measure approximately seventeen miles from the Lake Independence Regional Trail in Baker Park Reserve to the Lake Minnetonka LRT Regional Trail in Carver Park Reserve. The regional trail will connect the Hennepin County communities of Medina, Maple Plain, Independence and Minnetrista and the Carver County communities of Laketown Township and Victoria. Users will have the ability to effectively traverse the entire north/south length of western Hennepin County. The proposed regional trail will directly connect recreational destinations such as Carver and Baker Park Reserves, Gale Woods Farm, and Kingswood Park in addition to Lake Minnetonka LRT, Dakota Rail and Lake Independence Regional Trails - and the Luce Line State Trail, and will indirectly connect to Lake Minnetonka Regional Park. Some segments of the proposed trail already exist, or are planned for construction funding in the near future. Originally a city of Minnetrista initiative, Three Rivers Park District assumed responsibility of the Insert Name Regional Trail planning in The proposed regional trail search corridor was expanded beyond the initial Minnetrista planning to include connection to Baker Park Reserve through the communities of Independence, Maple Plain and Medina. Insert Name Regional Trail Alignment Source: Three Rivers Park District Insert Name Regional Trail Master Plan, November 2014 v

13 The Insert Name Regional Trail Master Plan is intended to reflect and expand upon the work done by Minnetrista and further incorporate the larger regional context and destinations. Active use of the Insert Name Regional Trail is expected to provide walking/hiking, bicycling, running/ jogging, in-line skating, and dog walking opportunities during the non-winter months. The Park District s seasonal-use data of existing regional trails indicates that significant use of the trail will occur in the spring, summer and fall seasons. Winter use of the Insert Name Regional Trail is dependent on weather conditions and independent winter use agreements with local communities to maintain and operate the trail during the winter season (defined as November 15 to March 31). When fully constructed, the Insert Name Regional Trail is projected to generate 183,000 annual visits. In summary, the Insert Name Regional Trail is estimated to require at minimum; 1) acquisition costs: $435,700, 2) construction costs: $10,300,000, 3) one-time costs (maintenance equipment or similar): $100,000 and 4) annual costs: $5,000 for natural resource management and $60,000 for maintenance. Segment A Downtown Maple Plain Lake Independence Regional Trail (Baker Park Reserve) to Luce Line State Trail Medina, Maple Plain and Independence Future Construction 2.25 miles Segment B Luce Line State Trail Luce Line State Trail Independence Constructed (unpaved) 2.16 miles Segment C Kingswood Luce Line State Trail to CR 15 (through Kingswood Park) Independence and Minnetrista Future Construction 3.26 miles Segment D Gale Woods Farm CR 15 to Dakota Rail Regional Trail (through Gale Woods Farm) Minnetrista Future Construction 0.9 miles Segment E Dakota Rail Regional Trail Dakota Rail Regional Trail Minnetrista Constructed 1.28 miles Segment F Six Mile Marsh Dakota Rail Regional Trail to Kings Point Road Minnetrista Future Construction 1.53 miles Segment G Woodland Cove Kings Point Road to TH 7 (through Woodland Cove) Minnetrista Anticipated Construction miles Segment H Carver Park Reserve I TH 7 to Lowry Nature Center (through Carver Park Reserve) Laketown Township Anticipated Construction miles Segment I Carver Park Reserve II Lowry Nature Center (through Carver Park Reserve) to Lake Minnetonka LRT Regional Trail Laketown Township and Victoria Constructed 2.25 miles Insert Name Regional Trail Segmentation Source: Three Rivers Park District Total: miles vi Three Rivers Park District

14 Table of Contents Page Section I Planning Framework Overview... 1 Metropolitan Regional Parks System Three Rivers Park District... 3 Regional Trail Planning Guidelines... 3 Section II Planning & Public Process Background Dissemination of Information Feedback Received Future Public Engagement... 9 Related Projects & Plans... 9 Section III Demand Forecast Overview Recreation Use Trends Existing Three Rivers Park District User Data Demographics Projected Trail Use Section IV Trail Route Description & Development Concept Overview Trail Segmentation Section V Design Guidance Overview Permitted Regional Trail Use Access to All Design Guidelines Additional Trail Elements Insert Name Regional Trail Master Plan, November 2014 vii

15 Section VI Operations & Maintenance Plan Public Safety Natural & Cultural Resources Maintenance General Operations & Considerations Section VII Implementation, Estimated Costs, & Funding Acquisition Plan and Costs Development Plan and Costs Acquisition and Development Funding Potential Funding Sources Appendix A Resolution of Support Appendix B Visitation Estimate Methodology Appendix C Regional Trail Segmentation Maps Appendix D Minnesota Land Cover Classification System (MLCCS) Map Appendix E Property Acquisition Map Appendix F Cost Estimate viii Three Rivers Park District

16 Section I Planning Framework The Insert Name Regional Trail will fill a gap in the regional park and trail system with a safe, accessible and enjoyable recreation and alternative transportation option. Currently, southwestern suburban Hennepin County residents do not have access to a convenient and attractive off-road regional trail that supports a north/south connection. The Insert Name Regional Trail will expand recreational access to park and trail facilities, residential neighborhoods, commercial nodes and downtown Maple Plain - which in turn supports bicycle and pedestrian mobility and economic development. When completed, the trail will measure approximately seventeen miles from the Lake Independence Regional Trail in Baker Park Reserve (City of Medina) to the Lake Minnetonka LRT Regional Trail in Carver Park Reserve, through the cities of Maple Plain, Independence, and Minnetrista in Hennepin County and Laketown Township and the City of Victoria in Carver County. As the regional trail connects to the existing Lake Independence Regional Trail, users can continue on the Lake Independence Regional Trail to reach Crow- Hassan Park Reserve, another ten miles - effectively traversing the entire north/south length of western Hennepin County and creating a desirable recreation opportunity which also serves as an alternative transportation option (Figure 1). Figure 1 Insert Name Regional Trail County Context Source: Three Rivers Park District Insert Name Regional Trail Master Plan, November

17 Specifically, the proposed regional trail will directly connect recreational destinations such as Carver and Baker Park Reserves, Gale Woods Farm, and Kingswood Park in addition to Lake Minnetonka LRT, Dakota Rail and Lake Independence Regional Trails - and the Luce Line State Trail, and will indirectly connect to Lake Minnetonka Regional Park. Some segments of the proposed trail already exist, or are planned for construction funding in the near future (explained further in Section VII). These portions include sections through Carver Park Reserve, the crossing of Highway 7 and the two shared segments along the Dakota Rail Regional Trail and Luce Line State Trail (Figure 2). Metropolitan Regional Parks System The Twin Cities nationally renowned Metropolitan Regional Parks System significantly contributes to the area s high quality of life. Establishing green space for recreation and resource protection enhances the region s livability and economic strength. The Metropolitan Regional Parks System includes 51 regional parks and park reserves, 38 regional trails with 231 miles open to the public, seven special recreation features and is still growing (Figure 3). Currently, there are 54,633 acres of protected land open for public use, with planned acquisition of an additional 15,000 acres over the next 20 years. The Metropolitan Regional Parks System is made up of 10 park implementing agencies consisting of six county park departments, three city park departments, and the Park District. Figure 2 Insert Name Regional Trail Alignment & Status Source: Three Rivers Park District The Metropolitan Council is the regional planning agency that oversees and provides partial funding of the acquisition, development, and operation of the regional parks and trail system. The Metropolitan Council and implementing agencies also develop regional park policies to protect the region s water quality; promote best management practices; and help integrate the parks system with housing, transportation, and other regional priorities. The Metropolitan Council provides guidance in the development of regional park and trail master plans. The Insert Name Regional Trail Master Plan reflects that guidance. Each regional park or trail must have a master plan approved by the Metropolitan Council prior to receiving Metropolitan Figure 3 Metropolitan Regional Parks System Update Insert Name Regional Trail is identified by the black circle. Source: Metropolitan Council Regional Policy Plan 2 Three Rivers Park District

18 Council funding. The master plan must address boundaries and acquisition, demand, development concept, implementation schedule, development and operational costs, and natural resources. Public input is encouraged throughout the master planning process. The Metropolitan Council s planning requirements help ensure consistency between the implementing agencies and their own regional plans. Three Rivers Park District The Park District is an independent, special park district charged with the responsibilities of acquisition, development, and maintenance of regional park reserves, parks, special recreation features, and trails for the benefit and use of the citizens of suburban Hennepin County, the sevencounty Twin Cities metropolitan area, and the State of Minnesota. The Park District works cooperatively with local communities, counties, public agencies, the Metropolitan Council, and the State Legislature. The Park District s mission is to promote environmental stewardship through recreation and education in a natural resources-based park system. The Park District was established in 1957 by the Minnesota State Legislature when prominent members of the community promoted the benefits of parks in the outlying areas of Hennepin County. Since its inception, the Park District has grown to serve more than 10 million annual visitors through access to 26,500 acres of park reserves, regional parks, special recreation features, and 120 miles of regional trails. Regional Trail Planning Guidelines The Park District manages its lands under four categories of regional open space: regional park reserves, regional parks, regional special recreation features, and regional trail corridors. Regional trail corridors are carefully selected to follow natural or cultural linear features with scenic appeal and/or historical, architectural and developmental interest, connect people with places, help create a sense of place amongst the greater community, intersect with local trail, sidewalk, and bicycle networks, provide access to mass transit, and link components of the regional park system together. Regional trails may function as a destination or linking regional trail or both: Destination regional trails are developed as greenways or linear parks, and are distinct in that the trail itself is a destination. This type of regional trail typically is an independent facility and includes a wide corridor providing opportunities for improving wildlife habitat, protecting natural/cultural resources, and providing recreational opportunities. Linking regional trails serve a greater transportation function and act as the backbone to the regional trail system by connecting the regional park system to itself and the people it serves in a logical and efficient manner. For either regional trail type, adjacent land with significant natural or cultural resources may be acquired as part of the trail corridor. Insert Name Regional Trail will serve as both a destination and linking function; however, its primary function is that of a destination trail as the Insert Name Regional Trail is routed and intended to be developed in a manner to integrate natural resources, expansive viewsheds, and open space within the trail corridor. Regional trail corridors, such as the Insert Name Regional Trail, are intended to provide recreational travel along linear pathways that transcend multiple jurisdictions and may or may not also serve a transportation component. In addition, regional trails follow criteria established by the Metropolitan Council and Park District: Insert Name Regional Trail Master Plan, November

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20 Section II Planning & Public Process Planning for the Insert Name Regional Trail began in 2010 as a City of Minnetrista initiative. Minnetrista city staff began discussions with the Park District on the possibility of a north/south regional trail connection between Carver Park Reserve, Lake Minnetonka Regional Park, Dakota Rail Regional Trail, Gale Woods Farm and the Luce Line State Trail. When the Park District assumed planning responsibilities for the regional trail in 2012, further connections were extended to include Lake Minnetonka LRT Regional Trail, Kingswood Park, Baker Park Reserve, and the Lake Independence Regional Trail. The Insert Name Regional Trail Master Plan is intended to reflect and expound upon the work done by Minnetrista and further incorporate the larger aforementioned regional context and destinations. Background Initial discussions regarding the Insert Name Regional Trail began with the Woodland Cove residential development, a 500-acre subdivision located on the southern shore of Halsted Bay (Lake Minnetonka) and adjacent to the western boundary of Lake Minnetonka Regional Park. The Woodland Cove development is expected to generate over 1,000 new housing units and double Minnetrista s population base. It was realized that a significant portion of a regional trail alignment could be achieved through collaboration among the developer, Minnetrista and the Park District, as the trail and natural open space are also desirable amenities to residential development (Figure 4). Preservation of the regional trail corridor also provides an opportunity for the developer to achieve park dedication requirements. During the Woodland Cove discussions, the regional trail concept was not yet part of the Metropolitan Council s Figure 4 Woodland Cove Development - conceptual 2010 trail route Source: City of Minnetrista & Carlson Real Estate Co. Insert Name Regional Trail Master Plan, November

21 2030 Regional Parks Policy Plan and was not identified on Park District long-range regional trail planning maps. As such, Minnetrista led the initial planning with the agreement that the Park District would assume the planning initiative after the City identified a preferred trail route from Carver Park Reserve to the Luce Line State Trail. Minnetrista s planning for the Insert Name Regional Trail eventually spanned two years, as the City secured the resources of a consultant to manage the regional trail route planning and conducted an extensive public process including community meetings, individual resident meetings, and focused stakeholder engagement with the Minnehaha Creek Watershed District and Park District. Several trail alignments through Minnetrista were considered, analyzed and evaluated - with a decisive route selected south of the Dakota Rail Regional Trail and a generalized route selected north of the Dakota Rail Regional Trail to the Luce Line State Trail. The tangible result of the city s planning was a series of presentation boards entitled Minnetrista Regional Trail Master Plan (Figure 5). Figure 5 Minnetrista Regional Trail Master Plan Excerpts (2012) Source: City of Minnetrista (Schoenbauer Consulting, LLC) Beginning 2009/10 Insert Name Regional Trail conceived via Woodland Cove residential development in Minnetrista. Park District included as stakeholder throughout Minnetrista s planning. Jan. - Mar Minnetrista receives Parks Commission and City Council direction regarding preferred trail route at public meetings. Jan. - Mar Minnetrista City Council approves preferred trail route through their jurisdiction and transfers further planning efforts to the Park District July 19, 2013 Joint Independence and Maple Plain meeting with mayors, Park District and city staff and Park District Board of Commissioners district representative to discuss general support and proposed route alternatives. August 15, 2013 Park District staff attend Maple Plain Days with display booth depicting proposed trail information and opportunity for the public to provide written comments Aug. & Nov Minnetrista hosts community meetings to gain input from residents. Jan. - April 2012 Minnetrista meets with individual residents regarding concerns. July 2012 Park District requests an amendment to Met Council 2030 Regional Parks Policy Plan to include Insert Name Regional Trail search corridor. August 12, 2013 Park District staff present proposed regional trail to Maple Plain and Independence City Councils at separate meetings. September 14, 2013 Park District staff attend Independence Heritage Fest with display booth depicting proposed trail information and opportunity for the public to provide written comments. Figure 6 Insert Name Regional Trail Planning Timeline: Source: Three Rivers Park District 6 Three Rivers Park District

22 Upon assumption of the regional trail planning effort in 2012, the Park District requested, and was granted, an amendment to the Metropolitan Council s 2030 Regional Parks Policy Plan to include the new regional trail search corridor as part of the regional parks and trail system plan. During this time, Park District planning staff also explored the extension of the Insert Name Regional Trail search corridor to include regional connections to the Lake Minnetonka LRT Regional Trail, Kingswood Park, and Baker and Crow-Hassan Park Reserves. This action further expands the regional importance of the north/south connection in western Hennepin County. As such, the Cities of Independence and Maple Plain were included in subsequent trail alignment discussions and efforts to engage the public. The Park District subsequently requested that the Metropolitan Council include the northerly extension from the Luce Line Regional Trail to Baker Park Reserve/Lake Independence Regional Trail as part of the Metropolitan Council s 2040 Regional Parks Policy s System Plan. A detailed planning timeline provides an overview of actions required to take the Insert Name Regional Trail from inception through public and municipal input, Metropolitan Council review and finally Park District adoption (Figure 6). The Insert Name Regional Trail Master Plan is intended to reflect and expound upon the work done by Minnetrista and further incorporate the larger regional context and recreational destinations, support alternative transportation options and provide an ancillary resource for economic development to neighboring jurisdictions. As part of the planning process, the Park District built upon the success of many existing planning efforts, collaborated closely with stakeholders, and utilized a variety of public outreach and engagement techniques. Dissemination of Information A concerted effort was made to ensure that information regarding the proposed regional trail planning was broadcast in multiple formats. The Park District started a project website where the general public could receive background information, maps, notices of public meetings and links to submit electronic and written comments (Figure 7). October 29, 2013 Open House Boards Examples Open house held to solicit public feedback about proposed routes regarding the Insert Name Regional Trail through Independence and Maple Plain. January 31, Joint Independence and Maple Plain meeting with mayors, Park District and city staff and Park District Board of Commissioners representative to discuss public comments received and direction for next steps. March 2014 Planning Timeline Independence and Maple Plain City Council meetings to consider preferred trail route. A joint resolution of support is provided. December 2014 Insert Name Regional Trail Master Plan submitted to Park District Board of Commissioners for review and release for public comment. Winter 2015 Park District Board of Commissioners adopts Insert Name Regional Trail Master Plan. Oct Dec. 31, 2013 Formal public comments taken via comment card distributed at open house and electronically through Park District website. February 25, 2014 Joint City of Independence and Maple Plain workshop to discuss preferred regional trail route from Luce Line State Trail to Baker Park Reserve - including members of both City Councils, Planning Commissioners and Park District Board of Commissioners. May 2014 Park District requests Metropolitan Council 2040 Regional Parks Policy Plan s System Plan include the northerly extension from Luce Line State Trail to Baker Park Reserve/ Lake Independence Regional Trail. December 2014 Insert Name Regional Trail Master Plan submitted to Metropolitan Council for review and approval. Insert Name Regional Trail Master Plan, November

23 The October 29, 2013 open house was advertised through a number of avenues. Letters to adjacent trail route properties in Independence and Maple Plain were mailed by the Park District, inviting property owners to the open house and to share their thoughts. Outdoor signage advertising the open house was placed at key locations: at Independence and Maple Plain City Halls and the Baker Park Reserve trailhead parking lot, and along the Lake Independence Regional Trail. A press release was issued by the Park District providing key details to open house prospective attendees. Figure 7 Insert Name Regional Trail Project Website A planning website was maintained to disseminate information to the public, available 24/7. Source: Three Rivers Park District Figure 8 Public Comment Summary & Preliminary Cost Estimate Document Excerpts Separate document Source: Three Rivers Park District Local newspapers also published the planning process in both print and on their own websites. The Laker & Pioneer newspaper ran an article entitled, Park district proposing new regional trail in August 2013 and the Lakeshore Weekly News ran an article entitled, Public is invited to comment on future trail in December Maple Plain further advertised the Insert Name Regional Trail in its newsletter, the Maple Plain Insider in December inviting the public to learn more about the regional trail initiative and submit written pubic comments. Feedback Received Public comments received during the planning process were generally supportive - with Minnetrista s comments documented as an openended supportive/non-supportive solicitation (referenced and included in the Minnetrista Regional Trail Master Plan). Public comments received by the Park District after its assumption of the master planning process included residents from Independence, Maple Plain and the greater region (separate document). Participants were asked if they were supportive of the regional trail, which alternative route they preferred from the Luce Line State Trail to Baker Park Reserve (the segment not included in Minnetrista s planning), and finally if they had any concerns or special considerations. Overall, 84 percent (45 respondents reporting) were supportive of the regional trail; however, a clear, preferred public choice regional trail route was not apparent from the polling. To gather consensus between jurisdictions, the Park District provided 8 Three Rivers Park District

24 the public comments, cost estimates and a pros/ cons matrix to the Independence and Maple Plain elected officials to collectively discuss a preferred regional trail route (Figure 8). The result of this discussion was a mutually agreed upon preferred trail route that included a direct connection to downtown Maple Plain. In 2012, a Minnetrista City Council resolution included the Insert Name Regional Trail in its Parks, Trails and Open Space Plan and a joint resolution of support was provided to the Park District by Maple Plain and Independence City Councils in 2014 (Appendix A). Future Public Engagement The Park District will continue to engage the public through the design and construction phases of Insert Name Regional Trail. While the public engagement process for these phases has not yet been defined, the intent is to engage the public early and often and to balance engagement efforts between those most affected by the trail with the greater community and trail users. Related Projects & Plans The following plans and concurrent efforts were referenced during the planning process to ensure consistency and minimize duplication. Within each of the projects and plans listed below, the intent of the regional trail is apparent; however, the identified route may be slightly different than what is designated as part of this master plan in response to the detailed analysis and public engagement effort. Minnetrista Parks, Trails, and Open Space Plan (2005) and subsequent amendment (2011) to include planning for the Insert Name Regional Trail 2030 Comprehensive Plan (2009) Woodland Cove development ( present) Independence Comprehensive Park, Trail and Open Space Plan (1992) Comprehensive Park, Trail and Open Space Plan Update ( , draft) 2030 Comprehensive Plan Update (2010) Maple Plain City of Maple Plain Walking and Biking Plan (2012) 2030 Comprehensive Plan (2008) Redevelopment Implementation Plan (2009) Hennepin County Hennepin County Bicycle Transportation Plan (1997 and 2014 draft update) Three Rivers Park District Kingswood Special Recreation Feature Acquisition Master Plan (2013) Minnehaha Creek Watershed District Six Mile Creek Diagnostic Study (2013) Along the Lake Independence Regional Trail near Baker Park Reserve trailhead parking lot. Along Highway 12, adjacent to Maple Plain City Hall. Outdoor signage advertising the open house was placed at key locations. Source: Three Rivers Park District Insert Name Regional Trail Master Plan, November

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26 Section III Demand Forecast Insert Name Regional Trail is anticipated to become a significant regional trail destination due to its connectivity with recreational amenities including existing and proposed regional trails, regional parks and park reserves, in addition to downtown Maple Plain s retail and commercial nodes. The proposed regional trail will help fill a significant north-south gap in the regional trail system - adding 17 miles, and providing trail users a recreation-based multi-modal, alternative transportation option across the entire stretch of western Hennepin County. Recreational Use Trends National, state, regional, and Park District recreational use trend studies support continued expansion, improvement, and implementation of trails. Recreational studies also indicate that of the wide varieties of recreation activities, trails appear to be the common thread across most demographics groups. National Trends National recreation trends compiled within the Outdoor Recreation Participation Report: Topline 2013 by the Outdoor Foundation indicate a clear increase in participation since 2006 in several regional trail activities for persons over 6 years old: biking (road/paved surface) 2 percent increase; day hiking 16 percent increase; running/jogging 35 percent increase; and trail running 32 percent increase. This same study found that running, jogging, and trail running is the second most popular adult activity with 14.9 percent of adults participating (30.8 million participants); bicycling is the third most popular adult activity with 12 percent of adults participating (24.8 million participants); and hiking is the fourth most popular adult activity with 11.7 percent adults participating (24.2 million participants). The Outdoor Foundation found that accessibility is a key factor to getting Americans outside. Not surprisingly, their study found that people with walking (56 percent participation) and biking (58 percent participation) routes close to their home get outside at significantly higher rates than those without (47 percent participation for walking and biking). Statewide Trends The State Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP), published by Minnesota DNR, denotes that of Minnesota adults, 54 percent participate in walking and 29 percent in biking as recreation activities (Figure 9). Insert Name Regional Trail Master Plan, November

27 TOP 10 Top 10 outdoor recreation activities Some of Minnesota s popular activities, like walking, are within a 30-minute drive of many participants homes. Others, like driving and camping, are popular tourist activities. Minnesota has more boating and fishing participation than any other state. Figure 9 How Minnesota Adults Recreate Outdoors Source: MnDNR SCORP The SCORP identified the following key trends and issues that are also relevant to regional recreational activities and facilities such as the Insert Name Regional Trail area: Two-thirds of all recreation use occurs within a half-hour drive from home; creating the need for outdoor recreation lands near areas of higher population density and growth. Sustaining existing outdoor recreation facilities for future generations remains a key issue. Obesity rates rose 132 percent in Minnesotans between 1990 and 2006; creating the need to improve opportunities for a healthier lifestyle through outdoor recreation. The Last Child in the Woods phenomenon extends to adults; access to nearby nature and frequent unstructured play and exploration is vital. The population is aging, more culturally and ethnically diverse, and more concentrated in urban and urbanizing areas; changes in who participates, what activities they participate in, where they participate, why they participate, and when they participate are all changing. The primary goal of the SCORP is to increase participation in outdoor recreation by all Minnesotans and visitors. By increasing recreation facilities and increasing them in or near populated areas and populated areas with increasing diverse populations, the Insert Name Regional Trail will help meet this goal and start to respond to some of the trends and issues identified in the SCORP. Regional Trends The Metropolitan Council s 2030 Regional Parks Policy Plan notes that, according to the SCORP, trail recreation is becoming increasingly important as the interest and demand for more trails is being felt at all levels of government. This increased interest in trail recreation reflects the fact that it is a healthful form of exercise for people of all age groups; is suitable for all levels of physical conditioning; can be carried out by families, groups, or individuals; and is often available close to home. Park District Trends Visitation to the Park District s regional trails has increased 400 percent from and is now estimated at approximately 4.1 million visits per year (2013). About half of this phenomenal growth in visitation is explained by the growth of the trail network itself, with the number of miles approximately doubling from 56 miles to 120 miles. Use patterns within the Park District s system of parks and trails have also changed in the last 12 years. The Baby Boomers who used to bring their children to Park District parks are now empty-nesters, and they have flocked to the regional trails to get exercise and to get outdoors. Biking, as an alternative form of transportation, has gained traction over the past five years throughout the metro region and more users are now bike commuting. The Park District s work with local communities and Hennepin County has resulted in a regional trail network that is better connected to the local 12 Three Rivers Park District

28 feeder trail, sidewalk, and bike lane networks, making the system more accessible to a larger portion of the population. In 2011, the Cedar Lake LRT Regional Trail surpassed 500,000 visits (followed closely by the North Cedar Lake Regional Trail at 496,000 annual visits) - marking the first time in the Park District s history that a regional trail received a half million visits and making visitation comparable to French Regional Park. Of the 14 Park District regional trails open in 2013, six received 300,000 or more visits. For comparison purposes, seven of the 20 parks and reserves received 300,000 or more visits. As of 2014, regional trail visits accounted for over 40 percent of all visits to the Park District s facilities. Trail visitation is expected to continue to increase at a rate greater than the expected increase in population, and to increase at a rate faster than expected visitation increases to the Park District s park units. Demographic Trends Aging Baby Boomer Generation. The Baby Boomer generation is one of the Park District s primary user groups. The U.S. Census Bureau considers a Baby Boomer to be someone born during the demographic birth boom between 1946 and 1964 following World War II. The recreational preferences and habits for this group are well established and demand for their preferred activities will continue to be strong. However, as this group ages, physical limitations will require some park and trail visitors to change their recreational activities from higher intensity activities such as running, in-line skating, and biking to lower-impact recreational activities such as walking, nature observation, and educational opportunities. Many of these activities are accommodated by the regional trail system. As this generation ages, trail use over time may initially decrease and then increase when the housing stock turns over to younger families with children. Immigrant Groups. Metropolitan Council demographers have identified that about half of the total increase in population for the region from 1990 to 2000 was due to immigration of first-generation U.S. citizens and the births of their children. This trend was expected to continue through 2010, if not longer. Within the region, there are several prevalent immigrant groups: Hmong/Southeast Asian, Hispanic/ Latino, Somali, and West Africans. To date, this influx of new immigrant groups are generally not participating in regional trail use at the same rates as non-immigrant populations. The Park District is committed to better understanding this phenomenon and will continue to study this further with the ultimate goal of attracting regional trail users which mirror the demographics of the region. Park District Regional Trail User Data Regional trails are most heavily visited during the spring, summer, and fall seasons with summer receiving 40 percent of annual visits, spring and fall each receiving 25 percent of annual visits, and winter receiving 10 percent of annual visits. Winter has seen more seasonal growth, in part due to warmer winters, the increased use of trails for commuting, and the use of trails for year-round exercise regimens. The trend continues to indicate that biking is, and will remain, the predominant regional trail activity at 76 percent, followed by walking (15 percent), and running (six percent). In-line skating, mobilitydevice users and other miscellaneous uses make up the balance of trail users. The vast majority of regional trail visitors use trails for recreation and exercise. However, 12 percent of all regional trail visits are now for commuting purposes, up from about 1 percent in Regional trails that are paved, with few stop conditions, limited interactions with vehicles, and with seamless connections to employment, retail, and commercial centers have a greater percentage of regional trail visits attributed to commuting (19-28 percent) than regional trails without these three attributes. While these certainly are not the only Insert Name Regional Trail Master Plan, November

29 factors in determining the desirability of a regional trail corridor for commuting purposes, they appear to play an important role. The 2009 regional trail survey data indicates that regional trail users are predominantly white (96 percent), male (60 percent), highly educated (76 percent have a bachelor s degree or higher), married/partnered (77 percent), middle-aged (41 percent are in the age group), and uppermiddle class (43 percent have household incomes over $100,000). With the exception of premier destination trails such as the Dakota Rail Regional Trail, the majority of use comes from people living within three miles of the trail corridor. Consequently, the American Community Survey ( ) demographics analyzed for the Insert Name Regional Trail are reflective of Park District trail user demographics as aforementioned. Several regional trails within the more diverse firsttier communities (Richfield, Bloomington, Edina, New Hope, Crystal, Robbinsdale, Brooklyn Center) are planned for development in the next three years, and the overall trail visitor profile is expected to diversify once those trails are open for use. Trail Visitor Preferences Bicycle and pedestrian studies from across the country, and over the last twenty-five years, have come to the same general conclusions regarding user preferences - regardless of user type. Trails with these characteristics will attract visitors from greater distances, will have greater annual use, and will produce more enjoyable experiences for trail users: Natural settings (scenic, leafy vegetation, limited evidence of the built environment, etc. A diversity of natural settings (woodlands, wetlands, prairies, etc.) Visual and physical separation from vehicles A continuous and contiguous route with limited stop conditions A smooth surface (either paved or aggregate) Connectivity with destinations and other bicycle/pedestrian facilities Opportunities for loops Trail amenities - drinking water, mileage markers, restrooms, and wayfinding Some bicycle and pedestrian studies also indicate that participants are willing to spend more money and travel longer distances to utilize facilities that incorporate these preferences. In recognition of user preferences, the Insert Name Regional Trail route was selected to provide linkages to regional recreation destinations; balance recreation and natural resources; minimize stop conditions, provide a safe, off-road, multi-modal transportation option, and ultimately, increase the desirability of the regional trail. As such, it is reasonable to expect that a regional trail, such as Insert Name Regional Trail, that incorporates these preferences, will be used more and provide a more enjoyable experience than a regional trail that does not. Projected Trail Use & Visitation The percentage breakdown by activity of Insert Name Regional Trail will generally mirror Park District regional trail activity trends (Table 1). Bicycling will be the primary regional trail use, with ancillary uses such as walking, running and inline skating capturing a smaller percentage of the total use. These expected uses remain consistent throughout the trail corridor with the exception of where the regional trail passes through the Maple Plain downtown commercial area. In this location, it is anticipated that the regional trail will receive an increased percentage of pedestrian activity associated with the sidewalk network. Seasonal use percentages for the Insert Name Regional Trail are expected to be consistent with regional trail seasonal use with 90 percent of visitation occurring in the spring, summer, and fall seasons (Table 2). Winter use of the Insert Name Regional Trail is dependent on weather conditions, available budget, and the assistance of local communities to maintain the trail. At the time this master plan was written, it is anticipated that the local communities will maintain the regional trail during the winter months as resources allow and demand warrants it. 14 Three Rivers Park District

30 When fully constructed, the Insert Name Regional Trail is projected to generate 183,000 annual visits. This visitation estimate is calculated based on the following cumulative methodology: 1) connectivity to existing regional recreational amenities, 2) destination aesthetic qualities along the trail corridor and, 3) connection to Maple Plain s downtown (Appendix B). Metropolitan Council studies indicate that 50 percent of regional trail users live within 0.75 miles from the trail (core service area) and 75 percent of users live within 3 miles of the trail (primary service area). The core service area includes the communities of Medina, Independence, Maple Plain, Minnetrista, Laketown Township, and Victoria (via Carver Park Reserve). The primary service area includes the core service area and extends further into Medina, Orono, Mound, Shorewood, and St. Bonifacius (Figure 10). Table 1 Regional Trail Use by Activity Trail Activity Percent of Expected Use Bicycling 76% Walking/Hiking 15% Running/Jogging 6% In-line Skating 2% Other 1% Source: Three Rivers Park District Table 2 Regional Trail Use by Season Spring Summer Fall Winter Percent of annual visitation Projected annual visitation Source: Three Rivers Park District 25% 40% 25% 10% 45,750 73,200 45,750 18,300 In addition, due to the regional trail s destination qualities, it can be expected that the regional trail will draw users from a larger Twin Cities service area. This is reemphasized by the regional trail s proximity to Lake Minnetonka and looping opportunities to adjacent trail networks. Figure 10 Regional Trail Service Area Two service area categories exemplify core service area (0.75-mile radius indicated in blue) and primary service area (3-mile radius indicated in black). Source: Metropolitan Council & Three Rivers Park District Insert Name Regional Trail Master Plan, November

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32 Section IV Trail Route Description & Development Concept The 17-mile Insert Name Regional Trail is planned through the Cities of Medina, Independence, Maple Plain and Minnetrista in Hennepin County and Laketown Township and City of Victoria in Carver County. The regional trail will fill a critical north-south gap in the regional trail system while providing a highly desirable recreation amenity to adjacent communities as well as the greater region. The regional trail will also incorporate safe crossings of significant pedestrian and bicycle barriers including Highways 7 and 12. The regional trail is planned as a destination regional trail spanning some of the most scenic landscapes within the western Twin Cities metropolitan area. The incorporation and routing of the regional trail through Baker Park Reserve, Kingswood Park, Gale Woods Farm and Carver Park Reserve will preserve the opportunity for regional trail users to enjoy and experience some of the region s most scenic landscapes and areas of high quality natural resources in perpetuity. The primary intended use of the regional trail is recreation. However, the regional trail also will serve a commuting or transportation function to those users using the trail corridor to access one or more of the places of interest along the regional trail corridor including several existing regional and state recreational amenities: Lake Independence Regional Trail, Baker Park Reserve, Luce Line State Trail, Kingswood Park, Gale Woods Farm, Dakota Rail Regional Trail, Lake Minnetonka Regional Park (indirect connection), Carver Park Reserve and Lake Minnetonka LRT Regional Trail. The Insert Name Regional Trail will traverse some of the most scenic landscapes within western Hennepin County. Top: Carver Park Reserve, Bottom: Gale Woods Farm Source: Three Rivers Park District Insert Name Regional Trail Master Plan, November

33 Segment A Downtown Maple Plain Lake Independence Regional Trail (Baker Park Reserve) to Luce Line State Trail Medina, Maple Plain and Independence Future Construction 2.25 miles Segment B Luce Line State Trail Luce Line State Trail Independence Constructed (unpaved) 2.16 miles Segment C Kingswood Luce Line State Trail to CR 15 (through Kingswood Park) Independence and Minnetrista Future Construction 3.26 miles Segment D Gale Woods Farm CR 15 to Dakota Rail Regional Trail (through Gale Woods Farm) Minnetrista Future Construction 0.9 miles Segment E Dakota Rail Regional Trail Dakota Rail Regional Trail Minnetrista Constructed 1.28 miles Segment F Six Mile Marsh Dakota Rail Regional Trail to Kings Point Road Minnetrista Future Construction 1.53 miles Segment G Woodland Cove Kings Point Road to TH 7 (through Woodland Cove) Minnetrista Anticipated Construction miles Segment H Carver Park Reserve I TH 7 to Lowry Nature Center (through Carver Park Reserve) Laketown Township Anticipated Construction miles Segment I Carver Park Reserve II Lowry Nature Center (through Carver Park Reserve) to Lake Minnetonka LRT Regional Trail Laketown Township and Victoria Constructed 2.25 miles Figure 11 Insert Name Regional Trail Segmentation Source: Three Rivers Park District Total Miles Trail Segmentation For purposes of further describing the regional trail corridor and associated land acquisition and development plans, the regional trail is divided into nine segments (Figure 11). Each trail segment documents its particular location and status, context and destinations, natural resources, Minnesota Land Cover Classification System (MLCCS), species of special concern, acquisition needs and design and construction assessment. Larger regional trail segment, MLCCS and acquisition maps can be found in Appendices C, D & E.F Upon adoption of the Insert Name Regional Trail Master Plan, communities with jurisdictional control of their street network are encouraged to coordinate with the Park District to realize the regional trail through road reconstruction and ancillary construction projects. In addition, the Park District will continue to coordinate with Hennepin County transportation projects to ensure construction of the regional trail when road reconstruction is slated along the selected route. 18 Three Rivers Park District

34 Segment A Downtown Maple Plain then along the north side of CR 6 and west side of CR 110 to the Luce Line State Trail. The Insert Name Regional Trail provides access to Baker Park Reserve and the Lake Independence Regional Trail via the trailhead parking lot on the southwestern edge of the park reserve adjacent to CR 19. Baker Park Reserve offers 2,700 acres of natural landscape and offers a range of recreational activities including camping, water-based recreation, picnicking, play areas, golfing, horseback riding trails, and cross-country skiing, sledding, snowmobiling, snowshoeing and skijoring and dog sledding during the winter months. Baker Park Reserve is also home to Baker Near-Wilderness Settlement, an environmental learning center offering guests the opportunity to connect with nature and explore the outdoors overnight. Segment A Map Location and Status Segment A begins in Baker Park Reserve - linking to the Lake Independence Regional Trail - and traverses through Maple Plain downtown and surrounding residential ares of both Maple Plain and Independence before connecting to the Luce Line State Trail. This trail segment is 2.25 miles in length and is not yet constructed. Context and Destinations Extensive evaluation and community input was collected to select the trail alignment for Segment A (see Section II and Appendix A). Collective guidance was received from the Maple Plain and Independence public and decision-makers to route the trail. The recommended route alignment from the Baker Park Reserve trailhead parking lot follows the north side of Main Street, across Highway 12 at the existing High-Intensity Activated crosswalk (HAWK) signal, along the east side of CR 19 and Home to nearly 2,000 residents, Maple Plain offers trail users and adjacent residents direct and indirect access to restaurants and businesses, a Hennepin County Library branch, city hall, churches, post office, and the Orono Discover Center. With effective dissemination of informational material, it is surmised that Maple Plain could see an uptick in visitors using the trail from the Baker Park Reserve - especially overnight campground users. Depending on their needs, park users and campers may visit Maple Plain seeking camping supplies/groceries/sundries, local restaurants, coffee, WiFi and other associated necessities. Natural Resources The natural resources assessment of Segment A is best described by the following; 1) adjacency to Baker Park Reserve, 2) rural/urban environment of Maple Plain, and 3) adjacency to rural county roads leading to the Luce Line State Trail. Baker Park Reserve offers access to a diverse glacial landscape of gently undulating landscape dotted with wetlands and moderately-sized forest patches (Big Woods and tamarack bogs). As the trail traverses through Maple Plain and Independence, the landscape becomes a matrix of tree lined residential streets, road crossings Insert Name Regional Trail Master Plan, November

35 and county road right-of-way with vast vistas of adjacent large-lot residential lawns dotted with forested patches. The trail crosses Painters Creek along CR 6 (the creek has been culverted under the roadway). MLCCS The Minnesota Land Cover Classification System defines the area immediately adjacent to Segment A as mostly artificial surfaces and planted and cultivated vegetation. There are also pockets of herbaceous plant communities with a noteworthy wetland complex on the southern leg of Segment A. There are also a small handful of small forest pockets near the trail corridor, but not immediately adjacent to it. Species of Special Concern The Minnesota Department of Natural Heritage Inventory System includes the following species of special concern/plant communities within onemile of Segment A. Common Name Scientific Name Classification American Ginseng Panex quinquefolius Species of Special Concern Sugar Maple Forest (Big Woods) --- Not Classified Trumpeter Swan Cygnus buccinator Threatened Acquisition Needs Segment A is intended to be realized within available road right-of-way. Select easement areas adjacent to the road right-of-way may exist along portions of Main Street in Maple Plain and CR 6 and 110 in Independence. Further details regarding necessary easements will be defined in future design development phases. Design and Construction Assessment A detailed planning level design and construction assessment was conducted as part of the route selection process. Segment A requires the typical base trail construction with additional considerations for embankment work, curb and gutter conversion/reconstruction along rural roads, retaining walls, wetland impact mitigation, power pole relocations, major tree impacts and a railroad crossing. Wayfinding signage is proposed at the Baker Park Reserve trailhead and at three county road intersection locations along Segment A. Two rest stops are also proposed as right-ofway allows. Segment B Luce Line State Trail Segment B Map Location and Status Segment B utilizes the existing Luce Line State Trail from Highway 110 to Game Farm Road through Independence, a distance of 2.16 miles. Owned and operated by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, the Luce Line State Trail stretches 63 miles from Plymouth to the small town of Cosmos in west-central Minnesota. The Park District operates and maintains the Luce Line Regional Trail from the state trail s terminus in Plymouth - connecting eastward 8.8 miles to the Minneapolis park and trail system at Theodore Wirth Regional Park. A noteworthy recommendation for future consideration eliminates the Luce Line State Trail alignment in favor of continuing north/south along Highway 110 and then east/west along Highway 26 to Game Farm Road. At the time of the master plan, this alignment s additional cost to maintain a continuous bituminous trail (without the limestone interruption of the Luce Line State Trail) did not outweigh the benefits. This alternative alignment could be reviewed again in the future should circumstances or user preference change. Context and Destinations This portion of the Luce Line State Trail is limestone, and will continue to be limestone under MnDNR guidance. This portion of the state trail allows biking, hiking, running, jogging, walking, dog walking, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing. Additionally, an adjacent horse trail also parallels this portion of the Luce Line State Trail. The Park District respects the existing uses and 20 Three Rivers Park District

36 does not propose any changes in existing uses or pavement conditions. Segment C Kingswood Natural Resources The Luce Line State Trail is an abandoned rail corridor. As with similar converted rail corridors, a linear forested vegetative pattern has developed adjacent to the trail, offering glimpses to the rural landscape of large-lot residential properties and farm fields. MLCCS The Minnesota Land Cover Classification System defines the area immediately adjacent to Segment B as predominately planted or cultivated vegetation with a large herbaceaous wetland node centrally located along the southern boundary of the corridor. Small patches of forests, woodlots, shrublands, and artificial surfaces and associated areas are also scattered along Segment B. Species of Special Concern The Minnesota Department of Natural Heritage Inventory System includes the following species of special concern/plant communities within onemile of Segment B. Common Name Scientific Name Classification Sugar Maple Forest (Big Woods) --- Not Classified Acquisition Needs As this segment of the Insert Name Regional Trail is proposed to utilize the existing Luce Line State Trail, no land is required by the Park District for Segment B. Design and Construction Assessment As aforementioned, if the MnDNR determines that trail user demand warrants consideration to pave portions of the Luce Line State Trail, the Park District respects the underlying property owner s decsion-making authority. At this time, the Park District does not propose any pavement changes to Segment B. Wayfinding signage is proposed at the start and terminus of the shared route with a rest stop, to be coordinated in conjunction with the MnDNR. Segment C Map Location and Status Measuring 3.26 miles, Segment C begins at the junction of the Luce Line State Trail and Game Farm Road. Here it traverses in a north/south orientation through Kingswood Park, eventually connecting to Gale Woods Farm by way of property owned and operated by the Boys and Girls Club. Part of Minnetrista s early planning that identified this area as a trail search corridor (Section II), this regional trail route segment was solidified with the acquisition of Kingswood Park by the Park District in Segment C is currently unconstructed. Context and Destinations Kingswood Park, consisting of 106 acres on Little Long Lake, includes 70 percent of the lake s shoreline as well as a tamarack bog and unique glacial landscape. Little Long Lake and the surrounding uplands are considered some of the most pristine, high-quality natural resources in Insert Name Regional Trail Master Plan, November

37 the area. Until fully operational, the park will be open on a limited/interim basis - offering passive recreational hiking trails to experience the park. The Boys and Girls Club operates Voyager Environmental Center at the southern terminus of Segment C. The environmental center operates as a residential camp in the summer and on weekends during the school year. During the school year, the environmental center offers environmental education and recreational camp activities to schools. Safe trail access between the environmental center, Kingswood Park and Gale Woods Farm to the south may provide additional opportunities to coordinate programming between the organizations. Natural Resources The natural resources adjacent to Game Farm Road exist as a dotted forest patch edge condition with sporadic open areas of fenced pasture. As previously mentioned, Kingswood Park offers trail users a unique opportunity to visit a glacial landscape with an array of natural resources. The relatively undeveloped shoreline of Little Long Lake, maple-basswood forest covering a glacial esker along the western shore, oak woodland along the eastern shore and a 25-acre managed prairies and tamarack bog are symbolic of landscape and plant communities found throughout the region prior to European settlement. Eighty six percent (86%) of Kingswood Park resides under conservation easement, providing further environmental protection of the park s significant natural resource inventory. MLCCS The Minnesota Land Cover Classification System defines the area immediately adjacent to Segment C as a diversity of land covers with a larger presence of planted or cultivated vegetation concentrated along the western boundary of the northern half of Segment C complemented with patches of artificial surfaces and herbaceous plant communities. The eastern boundary of the northern half of Segment C is a diverse complex with generally equal parts artificial surfaces, herbaceous cover, forests, woodlands, shrublands, and planted and cultivated vegetation. The southern half of Segment C is more ecologically significant and includes larger woodland areas through Kingswood Park with areas of herbaceous cover, shrubland, and artificial surfaces in near proximity to the trail corridor. Species of Special Concern The Minnesota Department of Natural Heritage Inventory System includes the following species of special concern/plant communities within onemile of Segment C. Common Name Scientific Name Classification Sugar Maple Forest (Big Woods) --- Not Classified Humped Bladderwort Utricularia gibba Non-Threatened Trumpeter Swan Cygnus buccinator Threatened Least Darter Etheostoma microperca Species of Special Concern Acquisition Needs The preliminary planning assessment indicates that the regional trail can generally be accommodated within the road right-of-way adjacent to Game Farm Road and CR 15 with minimal easement requirements. An easement for the Boys and Girls Club will be required from the southern end of Kingswood Park to CR 15. It is anticipated that this easement may be obtained through a larger land exchange in conjunction with the acquisition needs of Segment D. Design and Construction Assessment Trail design and construction assumes significant embankment work to address erosion along the glacial esker ridgeline within Kingswood Park and conversion of a rural road to curb and gutter section in addition to base trail construction. Wayfinding signage is proposed along Game Farm Road, at the Kingswood parking lot, at the south end of Kingswood, and at the CR 15 road crossing. Four rest stops are proposed approximately every mile, where reasonably feasible. 22 Three Rivers Park District

38 Segment D Gale Woods Farm Gale Woods Farm service access road located immediately west of the privately held properties. Several potential regional trail alignments were evaluated through Gale Woods Farm. A route through the eastern portion of the property was selected as it utilizes an existing utility easement through a wooded area and skirts around the western edge of an existing hay field - minimizing potential negative impacts to the farming operations and associated programming components by introducing a new, semi-conflicting use. Although direct access to the Gale Woods Farm core activity center from Segment D is not planned as it would create a conflict between regional trail users, program participants, and the operations of a working farm, direct access to the core activity center of the farm is provided along Segment E through a local trail connection. Segment D Map Location and Status Segment D, measuring approximately 0.9 miles, is located entirely within Gale Woods Farm with the exception of a small segment located on the northern end along CR 15 and through private property owned by the Boys and Girls Club. Segment D is not yet constructed. Gale Woods Farm is a living, working farm with farm and folk educational programing, reservation pavilion, hiking and cross country running trails, fishing, and picnic areas. Context and Destinations At the northern terminus, Segment D is proposed over two privately-held parcels along the south side of CR 15. These parcels are fragments of larger parcels located on the north side of CR 15 and remain undeveloped. The regional trail is proposed to cross CR 15 at the existing Natural Resources The Minnesota Land Trust holds a conservation easement over the entire Gale Woods Farm property. The conservation easement s purpose is to, preserve and protect the conservation values of the protected land the working farm, general park activities, and future regional trail corridor are consistent with this intent. MLCCS The Minnesota Land Cover Classification System classifies the area immediately adjacent to Segment D as planted or cultivated vegetation, forest, woodland, and herbaceous plant communities. Species of Special Concern The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Natural Heritage Inventory System includes the following species of special concern/plant communities within 1-mile of Segment D. Common Name Scientific Name Classification Prairie Rich Fen Class --- Not Classified Native Plant Community - Undetermined Class --- Not Classified Acquisition Needs Almost the entire Segment D is located within Gale Woods Farm; however, a short 100 foot segment is planned either within CR 15 right-of-way or - Insert Name Regional Trail Master Plan, November

39 more preferably as it provides for more feasible construction and safer alignment - through a small portion of two parcels that are each tied to a larger parcel primarily located on the opposite (north) side of the road and owned by the Boys and Girls Club. During preliminary discussions between the Park District and Boys and Girls Club, the Boys and Girls Club expressed an interest in a larger land exchange arrangement. As currently proposed the Park District will convey the property it owns north of CR 15 to the Boys and Girls Club and the Boys and Girls Club will convey the property it owns south of CR 15 to the Park District. In addition, the Boys and Girls Club will convey the required regional trail easement (Segment C) between CR 15 and Kingswood Park. The details of this arrangement are not yet finalized and may include a financial transaction if the land values associated with the proposed transaction do not balance. Design and Construction Assessment New base trail construction is required for Segment D with one rest stop at an undetermined location. Segment E Dakota Rail Regional Trail Segment E Map Location and Status Segment E utilizes the existing Dakota Rail Regional Trail for 1.28 miles from Gale Woods Farm to Westonka Recreational Park. Context and Destinations This existing segment, which is shared with the Dakota Rail Regional Trail, is located on an abandoned railroad corridor currently owned by the Hennepin County Regional Rail Authority (HCRRA) and leased to the Park District for regional trail purposes. The corridor width is approximately 100 allowing for the establishment of narrow vegetative buffers along portions of Segment E. Within Gale Woods Farm, there is a paved trail connecting Segment E with an existing trailhead complete with parking, signage, benches, waste receptacle, and bathrooms at the main farm education building. Westonka Recreational Park, which offers 5 baseball fields, a playground, swings, and picnic areas, is located immediately adjacent to the south side of Segment E. A private mini golf course that incorporates art and natural elements into each hole is also located on the south side of the regional trail. Trail users can also access via the Dakota Rail Regional Trail downtown St. Bonifacius, located approximately 2 miles west, or downtown Mound, located approximately 1.5 miles east. St. Bonifacius offers access to local parks, churches, restaurants, bank, and gas station/ convenience store. Mound offers access to restaurants, churches, medical clinics, seasonal farmers market, transit, hardware store, library, pharmacy, bank, grocery store, post office, and other retail. Natural Resources The area adjacent to the regional trail is rural in nature offering scenic views over open grassy land, patches of woodlots and forest, and adjacent parks. There are no significant natural resources within the trail corridor itself; however, trail users can still observe many wildlife species that thrive in edge conditions as well as large open spaces. Common songs birds and waterfowl, whitetail deer, turkey, and osprey can be observed from Segment E. MLCCS The Minnesota Land Cover Classification System classifies the area immediately adjacent to Segment E as a generally equally balanced mix of artificial surfaces, planted or cultivated 24 Three Rivers Park District

40 vegetation, forests, woodland, and herbaceous cover. Species of Special Concern The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Natural Heritage Inventory System does not include any species of special concern/plant communities within one mile of Segment E. Acquisition Needs No additional acquisition needs are foreseen for this segment in the immediate future as the Park District has a permit from HCRRA for regional trail purposes along Segment E. Design and Construction Assessment At this time, no significant upgrades or reconstruction to the existing shared Dakota Rail Regional Trail segment are proposed. Trail parking, bathrooms and drinking water are accessible via Gale Woods Farm facilities. An upgrade is proposed to the existing wayfinding signage and two additional directional signs are proposed at the start and terminus of the shared trail segment. One rest stop is proposed along Segment E. Segment F Six Mile Marsh Segment F Map Location and Status Segment F is located southeast of the Dakota Rail Regional Trail and connects to the Woodland Cove residential development portion of the Insert Name Regional Trail - through the Six Mile Marsh. Segment F measures approximately 1.53 miles and is unconstructed. Segment F s general route is the result of significant planning and public input conducted by Minnetrista (see Section II). Previously referred to in Minnetrista planning documents as the Farmhill Route, this trail alignment was the preferred crossing of Six Mile Marsh. As stated in the Minnetrista Regional Trail Master Plan, area residents have a high concern for potential impacts to the natural environment, especially along Six Mile Marsh. Several options were considered and ultimately rejected due to the potential for impacts to wetlands. The alignment depicted crosses the marsh at the narrowest point in an effort to avoid these wetland impacts. Context and Destinations Segment F serves as a critical link between the Dakota Rail Regional Trail and crossing the Six Mile Marsh and associated creek. As the trail leaves the Dakota Rail Regional Trail, the route provides vistas across farmland, small hobby farms and wetlands. As the trail route passes along Farmhill Road, the landscape becomes large lot single family homes. The Insert Name Regional Trail crosses Six Mile Creek, which outlets into Halsted Bay, one of Lake Minnetonka s many inlets. Natural Resources The Six Mile Marsh wetland and creek complex drains a large area south and west of Halsted Bay. It runs through agriculture and residential development and has a very low gradient which often results in stagnant backwater conditions. According to the Minnehaha Creek Watershed District (Watershed District), Halsted Bay water quality is among the worst in the Watershed District due in part to excessive nutrients. The watershed district continues to actively pursue opportunities to improve water quality in this vicinity. Insert Name Regional Trail Master Plan, November

41 MLCCS The Minnesota Land Cover Classification System defines the area immediately adjacent to Segment F as generally equal parts artificial surfaces, herbaceous cover, and planted or cultivated vegetation with a pocket or two of woodland and forest plant communities. The plant communities along Segment F are not anticipated to change in the near future as the human impacted plant communities (artificial surfaces and planted and cultivated vegetation) are not planned for restoration and the herbaceous areas are associated with the Six Mile Marsh complex which are protected by existing wetland and water body laws and regulations. Species of Special Concern The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Natural Heritage Inventory System does not include any species of special concern/plant communities within one mile of Segment F. Acquisition Needs The proposed trail route requires significant acquisition/easement coordination to achieve a contiguous trail segment. Several Segment F properties require negotiations, of which the Park District is committed to a willing seller approach, again as defined by the Minnetrista Regional Trail Master Plan. An easement across one private property is required to achieve connection from the Dakota Rail Regional Trail to Farmhill Drive. Road rightof-way is proposed for the remaining length of Farmhill Drive, with acknowledgement that in select areas, easements may be required to achieve the typical trail section. Crossing Six Mile Marsh is proposed at the Farmhill Drive cul-de-sac. Minnetrista owns a small property at the Farmhill Drive cul-de-sac for purposes of routing a trail. The property is narrow, located directly on the wetland edge and does not extend all the way to Six Mile Creek. Additional property rights likely in the form of an easement or fee title are required in this location. Due to the shape, configuration and similar ownership of the affected and adjacent parcels, it is possible that a creative approach to land acquisition will be needed in this location. Preliminary conversations with the current affected property owner indicate that multiple parcels may require acquisition to secure the regional trail corridor as several of the parcels are landlocked and have little to no value without the association of the buildable parcel(s) located off of Farmhill Drive. In this situation, the Park District would likely resell the surplus property with a regional trail easement over it. The south side of Six Mile Creek will also require additional property rights acquisition. Several easements will be needed from three to five private property owners depending on the final trail design and success of land acquisition negotiation. Several of the easements are anticipated to be relatively minor, one to two located right at Six Mile Creek and away from the private residences and possibly one to two along Kings Point Road. There is one significant easement need that essentially spans the distance from Six Mile Creek to Kings Point Road. In this instance, the Park District is exploring the complete acquisition of the property with the intent to place a regional trail easement on the property and then resell the property. This approach is being explored as the current property owner has indicated a willingness to sell the entire property, but not sell an easement. Design and Construction Assessment Trail construction for Segment F will include typical base trail construction for the northern portion and more specialized construction as the trail crosses Six Mile Marsh including a series of boardwalks and a pedestrian bridge to cross Six Mile Creek. While cursory review by the Watershed District has been conducted, design details will need to consider the Watershed District s rules and requirements associated with crossing the marsh. Wayfinding signage is proposed near the crossing of Six Mile Creek with two rest stops proposed along the route. 26 Three Rivers Park District

42 Segment G Woodland Cove provide access from Woodland Cove residents to the regional trail. Context and Destinations Most of Alternative Route G1 will be located within a new local open space network through the Woodland Cove development and a 40 acre wooded lot owned by the Park District. The open space network, which will ultimately be owned by Minnetrista, is a composition of a series of outlots with a minimum width of approximately 160. The adjacent open space network will be a mix of 11 housing types catering to a variety of price points and ranging from custom homes to row townhouse to multi-family homes. The open space network is planned to be restored to a more natural aesthetic with wetlands, prairies, and some wooded areas. A major destination within this segment is a direct connection to Lake Minnetonka Regional Park offering hiking, biking, swimming, boating, fishing, geocaching, picnicking, and a creative play area. There will also be a combination of private (homeowners association owned/operated) and public parks within Woodland Cove which will be accessible via the connecting local trails. Segment G Map Location and Status Segment G is located between Kings Point Road and the existing grade-separated crossing of TH 7. There are currently two alternatives for this segment: Alternative Route G1 which is located through the heart of the new Woodland Cove residential development and a 40-acre parcel owned by the Park District and Alternative Route G2 which is located adjacent to Kings Point Road. At the time the master plan was written, there was local support to move forward with Alternative Route G1, and as such, the master plan is written to reflect that this route is the most likely to be implemented. An alternative route (G2) is still identified in the event an agreement cannot be reached to utilize the planned local trail system through Woodland Cove as part of the greater regional trail corridor. In the event Alternative Route G2 is implemented, local connections would Natural Resources The existing natural resources along Alternative Route G1 are limited to the portion of the trail which will traverse the 40 acre parcel owned by the Park District. The Park District s property is a high-quality maple-basswood forest protected by a conservation easement. The remainder of Alternative Route G1 is heavily impacted by the development of Woodland Cove. The longterm plans of the open space network within the Woodland Cove development calls for the recreation of wetlands, prairies, and some wooded areas that will provide for an aesthetically pleasing - but not necessarily a natural resource significant corridor - given the corridor width and surrounding residential development. MLCCS The Minnesota Land Cover Classification System classifies the area immediately adjacent to Alternative Route G1 as forested and planted or cultivated. A significant portion of this route Insert Name Regional Trail Master Plan, November

43 will be heavily impacted by the Woodland Cove development; however, the development plans call for the reestablishment of a more natural landscape such as prairies and wetlands. As such, in the long term some of this corridor may be redesignated to a more natural classification such as herbaceous, shrubland, or woodlands. Since the 40-acre parcel owned by the Park District is classified as forest and since this is within a conservation easement it is intended to remain this way well in perpetuity. Segment H Carver Park Reserve I Species of Special Concern The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Natural Heritage Inventory System does not include any species of special concern/plant communities within one mile of Segment G. Acquisition Needs A 20 wide regional trail corridor through the Woodland Cove open space network is required from the City of Minnetrista. The City and Park District are seeking creative ways to transfer the property rights to the Park District. The ultimate solution will account for the City s use of park dedication authority to secure the land and may account for potential future Park District parkland impacts due to proposed City improvements. Design and Construction Assessment Alternative Route G1 is planned for construction to the local standard of 8 wide. The Park District will upgrade to typical regional trail standards at which time adjacent trail segments are complete and after the pavement s useful life. Four road crossings and several boardwalks are anticipated and require additional design considerations. Wayfinding signage is proposed at the Kings Point Road crossing into the Woodland Cove development and one rest stop is proposed as space availability allows. Segment H Map Location and Status Segment H is located between the existing grade separated crossing of TH 7 and the Lowry Nature Center, completely within Carver Park Reserve. This segment is not yet built but is anticipated to be constructed approximately in Context and Destinations Segment H passes through a more open area of Carver Park Reserve with vistas over open fields, prairies, and other managed open areas to the surrounding forests, woodlots, and wetlands. The topography of Segment H is similar to Segment I - gently rolling. Segment H trail users have access to a wide variety of recreation opportunities such as picnicking, archery, the Grimm Farm Historic Site, geocaching, cross country skiing, birding and other wildlife viewing, hiking, and the Lowry Nature Center complex (the first public environmental education center of its kind in the state) via the existing interior trail network. Many of these recreational offerings are on the west side of CR 11 (the opposite side of the road as the regional trail). The next Carver Park Reserve Master Plan update is expected to review and evaluate a grade- 28 Three Rivers Park District

44 separated crossing of CR 11 in the northern half of the park reserve to complement the existing grade-separated crossing in the southern half of the park reserve. Such a crossing would offer improved safety and ease of crossing CR 11 and connectivity of the park as well as connectivity of the park with the regional trail. Trail users can also access other recreation opportunities such as fishing, camping, swimming, and a dog-off leash area; however, these areas are best accessed via Segment I. Natural Resources Carver Park Reserve is a system of interconnected lakes, marshes, and sloughs. Many of the wetlands are rich in biological diversity and classified as sanctuaries the highest level of protection within the Park District s internal land use guidance. On upland sites, the dominant plant community is oak forest, but there are good stands of maplebasswood as well. Similar to natural areas across the region, state, and nation, there is an ongoing battle to minimize the establishment and spreading of many invasive species including a few noteworthy examples of buckthorn, Eurasian water milfoil, poison ivy, wild parsnip, and leafy spurge. The wildlife in Carver Park Reserve may be more diverse than any other Park District park reserve. There are open field species like bobolinks and meadowlarks, species that require large open areas or wooded areas near water bodies such as ospreys and barred owls, and wide variety of other wildlife species like Trumpeter Swans, mink, white-tailed deer, otters, as well as common and more rare waterfowl and songbirds. MLCCS The Minnesota Land Cover Classification System classifies the area immediately adjacent to Segment H as planted or cultivated vegetation and forests with a scattering of woodlands, shrublands, and herbaceous plant communities. Especially noteworthy along the east side of the northern half of Segment H is the 7-11 Woods which is a forest comprised of lowland hardwood forests, maple-basswood forest, and oak forest. The quality and integrity of this forest is exceptional and is designated as a sanctuary within the Park District s internal land use guidance classification system. Species of Special Concern The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Natural Heritage Inventory System includes the following species of special concern/plant communities within one mile of Segment H. Common Name Scientific Name Classification Bald Eagle Haliaeetus leucocephalus Species of Special Concern Cerulean Warbler Setophaga cerulea Species of Special Concern Tamarack Swamp Not Classified Halberd-leaved Tearthumb Polygonum arifolium Non-threatened Trumpeter Swan Cygnus buccinator Threatened Acquisition Needs No additional land is required for Segment H. Design and Construction Assessment The proposed design and construction for Segment H include typical base trail assumptions through Carver Park Reserve. Wayfinding signage is proposed on the south side of Highway 7 and within the park reserve. Two additional rest stops are proposed at locations to be determined. Natural resource management of the adjacent land will occur as part of the natural resources management of Carver Park Reserve and not the Insert Name Regional Trail. Insert Name Regional Trail Master Plan, November

45 Segment I Carver Park Reserve II access to a community center, grocery store, post office, churches, restaurants, and other commercial and retail destinations. Natural Resources Please see Segment H narrative for more information regarding natural resources associated with Carver Park Reserve. Since both segments are completely within Carver Park Reserve, the general natural resource assessment and description are the same. Segment I Map Location and Status Segment I is located between the Lowry Nature Center and Lake Minnetonka LRT Regional Trail, completely within Carver Park Reserve. This segment is already constructed and open for public use. Context and Destinations Segment I passes through a complex of woods, wetlands, and open prairie and a landscape best described as ground moraine comprised of gently rolling relief within the southeast quadrant of Carver Park Reserve. There are vistas to Steiger Lake and the southern lobe of Lake Zumbra and existing resting nodes to take in the landscape and more personally connect with nature. Segment I trail users have access to a wide variety of recreation opportunities such as fishing, camping, swimming, a dog-off leash area, geocaching, birding and other wildlife viewing, hiking, and the Lowry Nature Center complex (the first public environmental education center of its kind in the state) via the existing interior trail network. Trail users can also access other recreation opportunities such as picnicking, archery, cross-country skiing, and the Grimm Farm Historic Site within Carver Park Reserve; however, these areas are best accessed via Segment H. MLCCS The Minnesota Land Cover Classification System classifies the area immediately adjacent to Segment I as primarily woodland, shrubland, and herbaceous plant communities with a scattering of planted or cultivated vegetation and forests. Species of Special Concern The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Natural Heritage Inventory System includes the following species of special concern/plant communities within one mile of Segment I. Common Name Scientific Name Classification Maple Basswood Forest --- Not classified Least Darter Etheostoma microperca Species of Special Concern Acquisition Needs No additional land is required for Segment I. Design and Construction Assessment This segment of the Insert Name Regional Trail exists and is in use. No redesign or reconstruction is anticipated. Wayfinding signage is anticipated near the parking lot on Park Drive, near the Lowry Nature Center, with an additional directional sign placed at the Lake Minnetonka LRT Regional Trail terminus. Future improvements to parking may be considered if demand warrants. Downtown Victoria, located within.8 miles of the southern terminus of Segment I via the Lake Minnetonka LRT Regional Trail, offers trail users 30 Three Rivers Park District

46 Section V Design Guidance The Insert Name Regional Trail is intended to safely accommodate 183,000 annual visits, an array of non-motorized uses, a variety of skill levels, and persons with special needs. In addition, the regional trail is intended to support both recreation and commuting uses and incorporate trail amenities that enhance trail users experiences. Similar to many regional trail corridors, the Insert Name Regional Trail corridor includes several challenges associated with constructing a regional trail where trail right-of-way doesn t exist, providing access to and across natural resources areas, and balancing safety, public expectations, natural resource protection, and potential private property impacts. One of the key elements to constructing the Insert Name Regional Trail is to design and construct it in a manner that meets users expectations and needs, meets industry standards and best management practices, and is financially responsible. As such, the Park District utilizes a series of District-wide regional trail practices and guidelines in respect to trail design and support amenities. These practices and guidelines are summarized in this chapter and will serve as the basis for design and construction of the Insert Name Regional Trail. Various images along the Insert Name Regional Trail route exemplify rural characteristics and adjacent landscape imagery. Insert Name Regional Trail Master Plan, November

47 Permitted Regional Trail Uses The regional trail will be open to the general public. Its intended uses include walking, jogging, in-line skating, bicycling, and other uses mandated by state law including, but not limited to, non-motorized electric personal assisted devices. Motorized vehicle and equestrian uses will be prohibited, except for motorized vehicles used by the Park District and partner cities for maintenance or law enforcement activities or otherwise permitted for ADA access. Equestrian uses are allowed on the Luce Line State Trail Segment B per MnDNR rules. Access to All The Park District is committed to providing access and recreational opportunities to all people, including persons with disabilities, minorities, and other special-population groups. The Park District meets this commitment through appropriate facility design, programming considerations, and by actively addressing potential barriers to participation. All regional trail facilities, including associated trailheads and trail amenities, will be designed to accommodate individuals with disabilities and developed in accordance with Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards and guidelines. Specific design guidelines are discussed on the following pages of this section. The Park District pursues promotional outreach activities and works with special-interest organizations such as the Courage Kenny Rehabilitation Institute and Wilderness Inquiry to further encourage participation in activities and use of park facilities by persons with special needs. If arrangements are made in advance, interpreters and alternative forms of printed material are available at programmed events. In addition to accommodating individuals with disabilities, the trail corridor passes through rural underdeveloped areas to small towns, providing access to people with different social and cultural backgrounds and connecting those persons with important local community destinations such as parks, commercial areas, community facilities, cultural destinations, and transit facilities. On a broader scale, communities adjacent to the trail will not only have access to the Insert Name Regional Trail, but also gain direct access to several existing park reserves, regional parks, and regional and state trails. To improve local access, neighborhood trail connections are anticipated at regular intervals. The Park District does not charge entrance fees for its regional trails; therefore, the regional trail is available for all users to enjoy regardless of financial status. Design Guidelines In accordance with its regional designation and associated anticipated use, the Insert Name Regional Trail will be designed as an off-road 10-foot-wide, non-motorized paved multi-use trail (Figure 11), with the exception of Segment B owned and operated by the MnDNR and maintained as aggregate in this vicinity. A bituminous trail surface is preferred because it is cost-effective, less prone to erosion than aggregate surfaces, provides a desirable trail user experience, and is more appropriate given the anticipated visitation and connections to other paved facilities. In consideration of the wetlands associated with this regional trail, boardwalks and bridges are anticipated in a few isolated locations along the regional trail corridor. Curb ramps will be used at all roadway crossings. The preferred maximum trail grade is 5 percent with a 2 percent cross slope for drainage. Much of the Insert Name Regional Trail is anticipated to be an independent trail corridor separate from roadways. However, in areas where the trail will be located adjacent to a roadway, the following design considerations apply. Where right-of-way allows, final trail design will attempt to maximize the boulevard width to account for sign placement, snow storage, and possibly trees or other complementary enhancements. In circumstances with limited rightof-way, the trail is still planned to be located offroad, but with less boulevard between the trail edge and back of the curb. In these locations, the trail will be separated from the road by a minimum paved two-foot-wide clear zone. This paved clear 32 Three Rivers Park District

48 zone between the back of the curb and the trail edge provides a buffer between the trail users and motorists and will be striped to delineate the edge of the trail. In the event there are instances where the trail will not initially meet the preferred design, trail designers will evaluate a wide variety of design tools to determine the best fit for the unique situation. Unless the alternative trail design is an acceptable long range solution, it is anticipated that noncompliant trail segments would be improved as funding, right-of-way, or other opportunities present themselves. A number of factors will be considered during the design phase, such as: Right-of-way width/acquisition needs Topography and drainage impacts Existing vegetation Driveway/road crossings Overhead and subsurface utilities Proximity to adjacent buildings, homes, businesses, and industrial facilities Wetlands/floodplain locations, potential impacts, and rules Wildlife (species, nesting/breeding areas and times, concentrations) Existing infrastructure Connectivity with other trail/sidewalk/bicycle facilities Safety Cost Obstructions Trail user preferences/desired trail user experience Opportunities to coordinate with other projects/agencies In addition to the discussed design considerations, regional trail segments will be designed in accordance with all applicable federal, state, and Figure 11 Regional Trail Typical Section Source: Three Rivers Park District local codes. More specifically, the following sources will be referred and adhered to when preparing the design and construction plans as appropriate: Guide for the Development of Bicycle Facilities, prepared by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO), Selecting Roadway Design Treatments to Accommodate Bicycles, Federal Highway Administration, January MnDOT Bikeway Facility Design Manual, Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT), March State Aid Rule Minimum Bicycle Path Standards, State Aid for Local Transportation. Trail Planning, Design, and Development Guidelines, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (MnDNR). Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD), MnDOT, May Insert Name Regional Trail Master Plan, November

49 Public Right-of-way Access Guidelines (PROWAG). Best Practices for Traffic Control at Regional Trail Crossings, A collaborative effort of Twin Cities road and trail managing agencies, July Bicycle and Pedestrian Wayfinding, Metropolitan Council, October Designing Sidewalks and Trails for Access, Part I and II: Best Practices Design Guide (FHWA); ADA Accessibility Guidelines for Outdoor Developed Areas (United States Access Board); and ADA and ABA Accessibility Guidelines for Buildings and Facilities (U.S. Access Board). Guidance for Three Rivers Park District Trail Crossings, Determining Effective Trail Crossing Practices in TRPD Parks and Public Rights-of- Way, SRF Consulting Group, Inc., December Throughout the design process of Insert Name Regional Trail, the Park District will work closely with the local community to design the trail in a manner that has the greatest public benefit and least amount of private property impacts. Additional Trail Elements Trail identity, crossings, wayfinding, traffic signage and devices, rest stops, drainage, and trailheads are important elements of regional trails. Their proper design and placement add both aesthetic and functional value to the trail. Unifying, Desirable Corridor As a destination regional trail, a primary design goal is to create a sense of place along the regional trail and an enjoyable trail user experience. Designing the trail with unifying elements and incorporating local parks and adjacent natural resources will help achieve this goal. Unifying elements may include distinctive trail design, wayfinding signage, rest stops, and trail crossings. Where it is not possible to utilize parkland or acquire a wider corridor width, it is desirable to incorporate other enhancements that help evoke a sense of place such as wide treelined boulevards and buffers from adjacent land uses. Trail/Road Crossings There are several locations where the regional trail crosses roadways and in which careful attention to detail is required to provide a safe and user friendly crossing. The types of trail crossing treatments will be designed in accordance with industry best standards to ensure conflicts between trail users and roadway traffic are minimal. In all cases, existing roadway configuration, infrastructure elements, vegetation, and other potential visual obstructions will be evaluated so sight lines can be maintained. Special provisions, such as mirrors, may be added to improve trail visibility from driveways if deemed appropriate. As vehicular traffic fluctuates, there may be a need for additional traffic signals or modifications to existing signalized intersections. These type of design considerations and trail enhancements will be addressed during the trail design phase. Wetland and Floodplain Crossing There are portions of the regional trail that will traverse wetlands and floodplains. In these instances, the regional trail design may incorporate bridges, boardwalks, and other creative solutions to minimize potential natural resources impacts while maintaining a contiguous and continuous trail corridor. Design and implementation of bridges and boardwalks will be coordinated with the appropriate regulatory agencies to ensure all requirements are met and any potential impacts are minimized. Wayfinding Regional trail wayfinding signage provides trail users with orientation and location information for amenities and services. Wayfinding signage typically provides: An overview map of the Park District s regional trail system and the specific regional trail. Directions and distances to major destinations and points of interest along the regional trail. 34 Three Rivers Park District

50 Directions for long-term detours or interim routes when there are gaps within the regional trail. Location information for nearby amenities such as local parks and local trails. Location information for nearby services, such as drinking water, public restrooms, and public parking. Visual identification of the regional trail network through physical kiosk/signage structures. The Park District employs three types of wayfinding signage structures: system kiosks, regional trail kiosks, and directional signage. System Kiosks. A free-standing, roofed structure that provides trail users with a map of Three Rivers Regional Park and Trail System, the regional trail rules, and general information about the Park District. Regional Trail Kiosks. A free-standing, roofed structure that provides trail users with an aerial map, a description of trail highlights, and a map of the entire regional trail that depicts local trails, amenities, and services near the regional trail. Directional Sign. A post structure with description blades attached, depicting the direction, the name, and the distance to major destinations and points of interest on the trail. Each post structure has the capability of holding up to 12 description blades. Placement of wayfinding signage structures along regional trails typically follows one of three configurations listed as Level A, B or C (Table 3). The Park District wayfinding is intended to complement and work in collaboration with local and regional wayfinding efforts as well as adjacent land uses and development initiatives. There may be conditions along the regional trail corridor where the wayfinding signage is altered or otherwise enhanced to better serve the trail user and appropriately fit the surrounding environment. One example of where flexibility may be appropriate is at the Luce Line State Trail, as this segment of the regional trail is owned/operated by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and a modification to the Table 3 Wayfinding Signage Configurations (2014 dollars) Level A Location Components Estimated Cost Beginning/end of regional trail and at halfway point if regional trail is greater than 10 miles.* System kiosk Regional trail kiosk Directional signage $45,000 Includes all signage and concrete pad. Level B Location Components Estimated Cost Approximately every two miles along regional trail. For new Level B locations, consider establishing on trail s north side.* Regional trail kiosk Directional signage $28,500 Includes all signage and concrete pad. Level C Location Components Estimated Cost Approximately every mile along regional trail. For new Level C locations, consider establishing at intersections with other regional trails or comprehensive trail systems (not trail spurs).* Directional signage $9,000 *Exact location and content determined in conjunction with local community input. Insert Name Regional Trail Master Plan, November

51 kiosk recognizing both agencies interests may be appropriate. The wayfinding plan for the Insert Name Regional Trail includes signage at strategic delineated points (Figure 12). The exact location and content of wayfinding signage will be determined in conjunction with local community input and is often dictated by available public right-of-way. Traffic Signage & Devices In addition to wayfinding signage, the regional trail will incorporate traffic control signs and devices, such as trail stop signs and center line pavement markings. These signs and devices will reflect the physical characteristics and usability of individual trail segments and the system as a whole. The cost to add traffic control signs and devices, including striping, to a regional trail is approximately $1 per linear foot (2014 dollars). Rest Stops Rest stops are generally located every mile and provide places for trail users to stop and rest along the trail and an area for amenities such as trash receptacles, benches, and bicycle racks. These simple but important amenities can serve to reinforce the identity of the regional trail route and better support trail users with mobility challenges. General locations for rest stops are listed in Section IV, Trail Route Description and Development Concept and will be further evaluated during the design phase. The rest stop design may be modified to best meet the available right-of-way, adjacent land use, and complimentary facilities such as a bus stop. The cost per rest stop is approximately $5,600 each (2014 dollars). Drainage In locations where the regional trail is adjacent to a roadway, the drainage of the regional trail is similar to that of a typical sidewalk. Stormwater sheet flows over the trail pavement and onto adjacent urban roadways, where it is collected and conveyed by the roadway stormwater drainage system. In areas where the regional trail is on an independent route, such as through parks or other green spaces, or adjacent to rural road segments, alternative stormwater best management practices, such as rain gardens and infiltration swales, may be explored during the design phase of the regional trail. Stormwater must shed rapidly from the surface of the trail and not pool on the trail surface to prevent hazardous situations for the users. Design of stormwater management practices will be coordinated with regulatory and other affected parties to ensure all requirements are met and any potential impacts are minimized. Trailheads Large regional and community parks, as well as public facilities along the regional trail corridor that are easy to locate, will function as de facto trailheads simply by the nature of their existence and their offerings (i.e. water, parking, restrooms, benches, rest facilities, and picnic areas). While no specific improvements are planned to any of the possible Insert Name Regional Trail trailhead locations as a part of the Master Plan, this will be furthered evaluated as a part of the design phase as there may be scenarios where additional trailhead improvements are necessary to adequately support the regional trail while not negatively affecting the existing function of facilities. This will be further evaluated if warranted by demand. The Park District will collaborate with local communities where trailhead improvements are necessary. It is anticipated that the following existing public facilities will serve as key trailheads to the Insert Name Regional Trail: City of Victoria and Laketown Township: Carver Park Reserve City of Minnetrista: Gale Woods Farm and Kingswood Park City of Independence: Luce Line State Trail at CR 110 (currently only parking) City of Maple Plain: Currently no designated facilities City of Medina: Baker Park Reserve 36 Three Rivers Park District

52 Figure 12 Wayfinding Locations Source: Three Rivers Park District Insert Name Regional Trail Master Plan, November

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54 Section VI Operations & Maintenance Plan Three Rivers Park District will operate the Insert Name Regional Trail using a wide variety of professional staff and in accordance with Park District policies, guidelines, and ordinances. The ordinances define the rules and regulations to provide for the safe and peaceful use of the parks and corresponding facilities; for the educational and recreational benefits and enjoyment of the public; for the protection and preservation of the property, facilities and natural resources; and for the safety and general welfare of the public. The current Park District ordinances define regional trail hours as 5 AM to 10 PM. The Park District s present policy provides for the operation and maintenance of regional trails from April 1 to November 14. As such, the Park District is not anticipating plowing or otherwise maintaining the Insert Name Regional Trail during the winter season. Local communities may elect to operate and maintain the regional trail segment during winter months with a winter use permit. The Park District may revise this policy at a future date and elect to operate and maintain the trail year-round. Regional trail staffing levels fluctuate to account for seasonal use patterns, maintenance requirements, and available funding. Public Safety Three Rivers Park District Public Safety Department is the law enforcement agency responsible for providing a safe environment for regional trail users. Public Safety officers strive to provide an excellent experience for our visitors by protecting the facilities, trails, and natural resources of the Park District. The main goal of Public Safety is to educate park guests on the use of the parks and the Three Rivers Park District Ordinances and state statutes. The Public Safety Department is a full-service POST-recognized law enforcement agency comprised of command staff, administrative staff, Park Police Officers, and campground and large event security. The Public Safety Section is further supported by a volunteer Trail Patrol program and the statewide mutual aid program which facilitates the sharing of public safety resources in times of emergency or other unusual conditions. This program serves to facilitate assistance from surrounding police agencies. Insert Name Regional Trail Master Plan, November

55 Patrol Plan Public Safety Officers and volunteers will patrol the Insert Name Regional Trail utilizing a variety of specialized patrol methods. Patrol frequencies will be adjusted as necessary to account for trail use, incident level, other concerns which may arise, and available funding. In addition to routine patrol, Park District Public Safety Officers may be dispatched through the Hennepin County Dispatch System to respond to incidences as they occur. Public Safety Staffing Due to the creative deployment of existing Park Police Officers, utilization of seasonal staff, statewide mutual aid program, and a successful Trail Patrol volunteer program, no additional fulltime Public Safety positions are anticipated to serve the Insert Name Regional Trail. As such, no additional operational funds are needed to provide public safety services along the Regional Trail. Natural & Cultural Resources The Natural Resource Department is responsible for restoring and protecting natural resources such as native plant communities, wildlife diversity and water quality on Park District property. The Natural Resources Department is comprised of Forestry Management, Wildlife Management and Water Resources Management. The Cultural Resource Section is responsible for identification, evaluation, protection, restoration, and interpretation of cultural resources on Park District property. Resource Protection Plan Insert Name Regional Trail is routed in a manner to maximize the access and enjoyment of remaining natural resources corridors and areas of cultural significance through western Hennepin County. The Park District will operate and maintain the regional trail corridor to highlight and not negatively affect the adjacent natural and cultural resources. In recognition of the natural and culturally interesting areas that the regional trail passes through or adjacent to, the Park District will utilize best management practices to minimize any potential impacts on those resources, work with adjacent property owners on how to best protect and manage significant resources, and incorporate opportunities to enjoy and interpret the resources. In the event the Park District acquires additional property along the regional trail which encompasses significant natural or cultural resources, the Park District will develop a stewardship plan specific to that resource and in accordance with other Park District natural and cultural resource management plans. Potential natural or cultural resource impacts as a result of trail design and construction are addressed in Section IV, Trail Route Description and Development Concept and Section V, Design Guidance. Resource Staffing Approximately a third of the Insert Name Regional Trail is routed through existing parkland that is currently already receiving natural and cultural resource management. The width of the remaining trail corridor will vary from as little as 16 feet wide to possibly several hundred feet wide; however, it is anticipated that the majority of the trail corridor will be narrower with limited natural and cultural resources. Areas of significant width will be more of the exception than the rule and directly relate to the resource value, direct and indirect costs, recreation benefit, willingness of the property owner, and support of the local municipality. To account for minimal resource management along the trail corridor, additional seasonal or contract staffing such as Conservation Corps Minnesota is anticipated at an annual expense of $5,000 (2014 dollars). Maintenance The Park District Maintenance Department is responsible to maintain parks and trails in a safe, clean, and usable manner. The Maintenance Department provides both typical, routine maintenance such as mowing, sweeping, and trash clean-up as well as specialized maintenance such as small building construction, non-paved trail repair, and grooming. 40 Three Rivers Park District

56 The Maintenance Department is comprised of a wide variety of highly skilled and trained maintenance professionals including carpenters, mechanics, park workers, and electricians complemented by seasonal staff. Maintenance Plan Maintenance operations will include seasonal condition assessments and periodic inspections, followed by necessary maintenance actions. Inspections will address possible safety issues, vandalism and non-routine maintenance concerns. The Park District will also respond to maintenance issues identified by the public on a timely basis as funding permits. Extraordinary maintenance occurs in response to storm damage, vandalism or other unplanned circumstances. Routine maintenance is outlined below. April and May: Sign inventory and replacement, spring cleanup, minor bridge and underpass repair, as needed. June, July, August and September: Erosion repair, fence repair, sign and post replacement, trash pickup, bridge and boardwalk repair (as needed). October and November: Bituminous patching and striping replacement, as needed. Throughout the season and/or in response to storm-related damage: Mowing, periodic trail sweeping, trash pick-up, general clean-up, and similar tasks. Maintenance of regional trail segments with limited property rights or segments that do not meet standard regional trail characteristics may require atypical maintenance. The majority of the equipment necessary to provide routine maintenance of the Insert Name Regional Trail will be shared with the Baker and Carver Work Clusters. Some tools and equipment specific to this regional trail may be needed to adequately and efficiently maintain the regional trail. A onetime expense of $100,000 (2014 dollars) is anticipated to cover the cost of additional maintenance equipment which may include an additional vehicle, mower, trailer, electric utility cart, tool cat and implements, and miscellaneous hand and power tools. Specialized maintenance is outlined below. Preventative Surface Treatment: Insert Name Regional Trail will receive scheduled striping, seal coating and redevelopment under the Park District s pavement management program and in accordance with Park District standards and as funding permits. Pavement management is a systematic method for tracking and addressing pavement conditions at a District-wide level. The Park District will also seek opportunities to work with Hennepin County and local cities in conjunction with road projects to improve trail design and surfacing. Trail/Bridge Inspection and Maintenance: Trails are inspected annually in the spring as part of the pre-season maintenance program and are then inspected periodically by Park District maintenance staff as part of ongoing operations. Minor trail repair is handled on a timely basis, and probable major repair needs are evaluated and recommended to Park District management for planning or engineering review. Major trail rehabilitation projects are submitted to the Park District Board of Commissioners for funding as part of the annual operating budget, preservation and rehabilitation program, or capital improvement program. The ownership and maintenance responsibilities associated with new pedestrian bridges constructed as part of the Insert Name Regional Trail will be determined when the bridges move into the design development phase. Bridges owned by MnDOT are the responsibility of MnDOT. The Park District only maintains the trail use of said bridges and underpasses. Maintenance includes sweeping, cleaning and painting as necessary. Insert Name Regional Trail Master Plan, November

57 Noxious Weed Management: The Park District mechanically or chemically removes noxious weeds within the defined trail corridor at the request of cities. Edge/Trail Shoulder Vegetation Management: The Park District will maintain vegetative clearances so as not to negatively affect trail use on any sections where trail shoulder vegetation exists. Regional Trail Maintenance Staffing The Insert Name Regional Trail will be primarily maintained by the Baker and Carver Work Clusters which provide maintenance services to four park reserves, two regional parks (one undeveloped), three special recreation facilities (one undeveloped), three regional trails, and the Lake Minnetonka Islands. The inclusion of the regional trail will add an additional miles (5.69 miles already existing/maintained) of regional trail maintenance responsibilities. These Work Clusters will be further impacted by the future development of Lake Sarah Regional Park and Kingswood Special Recreation Feature. In consideration of the future increased responsibilities within these Work Clusters, an additional 0.5 FTE maintenance position is needed to provide regional trail maintenance in accordance with current Park District regional trail maintenance practices and procedures. At the time the Insert Name Regional Trail is complete, routine maintenance operation costs including additional staffing are estimated to increase by $26,500/year in 2014 dollars. Additional costs for trail surface preservation and rehabilitation (trail surface repairs, striping requirements, and pavement requirements) are anticipated to increase by $33,000/year assuming a 30-year pavement life. The combined annual maintenance operation estimated cost for both route and trail surface preventative maintenance is $59,500/year. This equates to an estimated $0.37/trail visit. These costs will be included in the Park District s annual Asset Management Program. In the event, the development of rain gardens, best management practices, or other mitigation requirements require ongoing maintenance, additional seasonal staffing may be required to complete the work. If necessary, seasonal staffing budgets will be developed and evaluated during the design development phase. General Operation Considerations Sustainability The Park District s 2012 Sustainability Plan guides the Park District s efforts toward achieving established sustainability goals and targets by outlining broad strategies for organizational implementation. The following goals provide broad guidance and intent to Park District sustainability efforts: Manage and operate District parklands and facilities in a manner that ensures ecologic, financial and social integrity of the park system in perpetuity. Reduce dependence on fossil fuels to minimize green house gas (GHG) emissions and reduce public expenditures. Reduce the amount of waste sent to the incinerator and landfill to minimize costs and GHG emissions. Preserve groundwater supplies in the Twin Cities metropolitan area to ensure that current and future water needs can be met. Reduce Park District environmental impacts to demonstrate (or model) organizational commitment to environmental stewardship. Provide opportunities for public education and involvement in Park District sustainability initiatives. Design parks and trails that maximize the ability of the public to use non-motorized transportation. To move towards sustainability targets for GHG emissions, waste, and groundwater consumption reduction for the years 2015, 2025, and 2050, the Park District will focus on the following areas of implementation: facility systems, vehicles/ equipment and fuel use, waste management, groundwater conservation, sustainable work 42 Three Rivers Park District

58 practices, public education and advocacy and system planning and development. The Park District strives to utilize appropriate sustainable best management practices and guidelines such as the Minnesota Sustainable Building Guidelines (B3 Project) and Leadership in Energy and Environmental Development (LEED) Rating System on construction projects. Public Awareness The Park District s Marketing Communications Department manages a centralized marketing communications function that oversees public relations, marketing, media relations, the website, brand management, event planning and promotion. A number of effective marketing and outreach tools are used to promote the Park District, including but not limited to an annual distribution of Districtwide map, the website, direct mail, press releases, centralized reservation system, feedback phone line, brochures, ads and on-site promotion. The Park District collaborates with a wide array of community, business and government organizations to promote its facilities, programs and services, and to educate the public about its resources. The Park District also works with the Metropolitan Council Regional Parks System and the State Office of Tourism to leverage shared opportunities for creating awareness and visibility and works with the county agencies to provide information about scholarship programs available to individuals receiving economic assistance. Insert Name Regional Trail Master Plan, November

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60 Section VII Implementation, Estimated Costs, & Funding Construction of a new 17-mile regional trail spanning six communities will occur as opportunities present themselves and as resources allow. The timing of implementation is also dependent on the acquisition of the corridor which, under a willing seller approach, may take decades to realize. Implementation will be phased as available land and financial resources prohibit the entire corridor from being constructed as one project in the near future. A phased approach allows for trail segments to be constructed in a logical manner and respond to the demand and support from the local community, collaboration with other projects, and maximizing internal and external funding opportunities. In addition, implementation will occur at the discretion of the Park District Board of Commissioners and only when the Park District is financially prepared to assume the operation and maintenance responsibilities and costs of the regional trail. Acquisition Plan and Costs Property rights are already in place for over 9.5 miles of the 17-mile corridor and held by the Park District, Hennepin County Regional Rail Authority (Dakota Rail Regional Trail corridor), and/or Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (Luce Line State Trail). The acquisition requirements to create a continuous and contiguous corridor include the acquisition of an additional 7.5 miles. At minimum, there are 4.82 miles in which an additional one to ten feet of regional trail right-of-way are needed along existing road corridors (assuming for planning and cost estimating purposes only, an average acquisition width of 5 feet, this equates to 2.92 acres) and 2.1 miles in which an additional 20 feet of regional trail right-of-way are needed to create an independent trail corridor (5.1 acres). There may be additional acquisition opportunities to acquire a wider trail corridor and ultimately create a more desirable trail corridor by buffering the trail from surrounding development and by incorporating areas of natural or cultural resource significance directly into the corridor. As such, the acquisition needs presented in the master plan are the minimal acquisition requirements to achieve a continuous and contiguous corridor. The acquisition of the required land will follow a willing seller approach. As such, acquisition will occur when land-owners are ready and interested in selling their property or are considering development of their property - providing an opportunity to negotiate the designation of the regional trail corridor as part of development. The Park District will work with property owners and Insert Name Regional Trail Master Plan, November

61 the local municipality to explore creative acquisition strategies such as easements, lot splits, resale of surplus property, transfer of development rights, and similar to best meet the needs and expectations of all involved parties. Due to the willing seller approach, the acquisition phase may take decades to fully realize. The minimum estimated property rights acquisition cost is $435,700 (2014 dollars) for the Insert Name Regional Trail. Development Plan and Costs Approximately 5.7 miles of the Insert Name Regional Trail are already constructed and open to the public. The development costs for the remaining 11.3 miles include all foreseeable costs to construct the trail to regional trail standards including site preparation, reconfiguration and upgrade of rural to urban roadways (addition of curb and gutter), modification of drainage patterns, storm water treatment, bridges and boardwalks, wetland mitigation, utility relocation, and installation of signage, striping, kiosks, rest stops, landscaping, and similar support elements (Appendix F). Table 5 Implementation & Funding Plan (2014 dollars) Segment A Downtown Maple Plain Anticipated Implementation 10+ yrs. - Following completion of acquisition. Desirable to coordinate with future road work. Potential Funding Sources Future Park District GO Bonds Met Council CIP Grant Hennepin County Bikeway Grant Federal Recreation Trail Program Grant Federal Transportation Grant Segment B Luce Line State Trail Segment C Kingswood Trail construction complete. Wayfinding/rest stops: TBD - When significant continuous/ contiguous segment is established. 15+ yrs. - Following completion of acquisition. Desirable to coordinate with future road work for road based segments and/or future development of Kingswood Park. Future Park District GO Bonds Future Park District GO Bonds Met Council CIP Grant Hennepin County Bikeway Grant Federal Recreation Trail Program Grant Segment D Gale Woods Farm 15+ yrs. - simultaneously or following completion of connection to Kingswood Park. Future Park District GO Bonds Met Council CIP Grant Hennepin County Bikeway Grant Federal Recreation Trail Program Grant Segment E Dakota Rail Regional Trail Segment F Six Mile Marsh Segment G Woodland Cove Segment H Carver Park Reserve I Segment I Carver Park Reserve II Source: Three Rivers Park District Trail construction complete. Wayfinding/rest stops: TBD - When significant continuous/ contiguous segment is established. 10+ yrs. - Following completion of acquisition. Desirable to coordinate with future road work for road-based segments. Reconstruction at end of local trail s useful life and/or completion of adjacent trail segments. 2019/ Following construction of Woodland Cove Development and increased demand as a result of ~1,100 new residential units. Trail construction complete or later for wayfinding signage- when significant continuous/ contiguous segment is established. Future Park District GO Bonds Future Park District GO Bonds Met Council CIP Grant Hennepin County Bikeway Grant Federal Recreation Trail Program Grant Future Park District GO Bonds Future Park District GO Bonds Met Council CIP Grant Federal Recreation Trail Program Grant Future Park District GO Bonds 46 Three Rivers Park District

62 In recognition of the anticipated acquisition phase duration and amount of resources and coordination necessary to construct the remaining 11.3 miles of regional trail, it is anticipated that this trail will not be fully constructed and opened for public use for another 20 to 30 years. Regional trail development will be phased and significantly tied to opportunities that take advantage of external funding sources, road reconstruction projects, development initiatives, and local and regional political will. A very preliminary implementation and funding plan is summarized in Table 5. The estimated master planning level construction cost estimate for the unbuilt trail sections is $10.3 million (2014 dollars). Acquisition and Development Funding Acquisition and development funding will likely come from a variety of sources. A summary of potential funding sources follows: Federal Transportation Grants (Map 21) Metropolitan Council/State of Minnesota: Regional Parks Capital Improvement Program, Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund Acquisition Account, Parks and Trails Legacy Fund Acquisition Account Federal Recreation Trail Grant Program Hennepin County Bikeway Grant Program Park District General Obligation Bonds Local Municipality, Watershed District, and other Agency Contributions Table 6 Operations & Maintenance Cost Summary (2014 dollars) Public Safety Natural & Cultural Resources Maintenance One-time Expense (equipment or similar) N/A N/A $100,000 Summary/Total $100,000 Staffing No new FTE Expansion of Volunteer Patrol No new FTE Seasonal/Contract Staffing Varies 0.5 FTE Seasonal/Contract Staffing Varies 0.5 FTE Seasonal/Contract Staffing Various Depending on Need Expansion of Volunteer Patrol Annual Operation & Maintenance Costs N/A $5,000 $60,000 ($26,500 for routine maintenance Operation Budget and $33,000 for pavement management program Asset Management Program) $65,000 Potential Funding Sources Operation costs for the Insert Name Regional Trail will be primarily funded through the Park District Operating Budget. The Operating Budget s primary source of funds is local property taxes with some revenue from the State of Minnesota as part of the Operations and Maintenance Fund allocations from the Metropolitan Council. Additional costs associated with pavement maintenance will be funded from the Park District s Asset Management Program, which includes revenue allocated to the Park District from the State of Minnesota as well as the Park District general obligation bonds. All operation and maintenance costs are subject to the annual operating budget preparation process approved by the Park District Board of Commissioners. Fundraising/Donations Operations & Maintenance Cost Summary The Operations and Maintenance Plan is included in Section VI, Operations and Maintenance. A summary of staffing needs and one-time and annual expenses necessary to operate and maintain the regional trail to current Park District standards and practices as well as potential funding sources is provided (Table 6). Source: Three Rivers Park District Insert Name Regional Trail Master Plan, November

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64 Appendix A Resolutions of Support Insert Name Regional Trail Master Plan, November

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70 Appendix B Visitation Estimate Methodology Insert Name Regional Trail Master Plan, November

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72 Research & Evaluation Section Visitation Estimate Methodology September 11, 2014 Projected Visits to Proposed Regional Trail Connecting Baker Park Reserve with Carver Park Reserve = 183,000 According to the Met Council, Lake Independence Regional Trail attracted 57,400 visits during The proposed regional trail should generate at least this many visits due to the following similarities: Both trails connect to the Luce Line State Trail. Both trails connect to Baker Park Reserve, which contains a 200 site campground and many miles of paved multi-use trails. Both trails travel through rural areas of western Hennepin County. The proposed regional trail should attract an additional 40,000 visits at minimum due to the following unique features: Proposed regional trail will provide connection to a wide variety or recreation opportunities by offering direct access to Carver Park Reserve, Lake Minnetonka Regional Park, Gale Woods Farm, and Camp Kingswood. Portions of proposed regional trail will not be immediately adjacent to roadways and be within a larger green corridor making it more aesthetically pleasing than the Lake Independence Regional Trail. Proposed regional trail will pass through the city of Maple Plain, which has a population 1,800 people. An additional 85,909 visits are projected for the proposed regional trail due to its connection with the Dakota Rail Regional Trail and Lake Minnetonka LRT Regional Trail: The Dakota Rail Regional Trail attracted 464,800 visits during 2013 and based on a 2009 visitor study conducted by Three Rivers Park District, 62 percent of Dakota Rail Regional Trail visits passed through the area where the proposed regional trail intersects the Dakota Rail Regional Trail. This calculates to 288,176 visits (0.62 x 464,800). If the proposed regional trail is accessed by a conservative estimate of 20 percent of these visits, 57,635 visits will be added. The Lake Minnetonka LRT Regional Trail attracted 415,800 visits during 2013 and based on a 2009 visitor study conducted by Three Rivers Park District, 34 percent of Lake Minnetonka LRT Regional Trail visits passed through the area where the proposed regional trail intersects the Lake Minnetonka LRT Regional Trail. This calculates to 141,372 visits (0.34 x 415,800). If the proposed regional trail is again accessed by a conservative estimate of 20 percent of these visits, 28,274 visits will be added. Insert Name Regional Trail Master Plan, November

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74 Appendix C Regional Trail Segmentation Maps Insert Name Regional Trail Master Plan, November

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86 Appendix D Minnesota Land Cover Classification System (MLCCS) Map Insert Name Regional Trail Master Plan, November

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90 Appendix E Property Acquisition Map Insert Name Regional Trail Master Plan, November

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94 Appendix F Cost Estimate Insert Name Regional Trail Master Plan, November

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96 Acquisition and Construction Cost Estimate Segment Segment A: Downtown Maple Plain (Independence, Maple Plain, and Medina) Segment B: Luce Line State Trail (Independence) Segment C: Kingswood (Minnetrista and Independence) From - To Lake Independence Regional Trail to Luce Line State Trail Acquisition Item Assessment/Proposed Location(s) Qty Unit Unit Price Total Assumes an average acquisition of 5' for portions of Segment A located outside of Baker Park Reserve 57,500 SQ FT $3 $143,750 Base Trail Construction 11,880 LN FT $100 $1,188,000 Specialized Construction Considerations Embankment work, convert/reconstruct rural road to curb and gutter section, retaining walls, wetland impacts, power pole relocation, major tree impacts, and railroad crossing Lump 1 Sum $750,000 $750,000 Boardwalk 0 LN FT $800 $0 Pedestrian Bridge 0 Each $300,000 $0 Level A Wayfinding Near existing trailhead off of CR 19 (Baker) 1 Each $45,000 $45,000 Level B Wayfinding 0 Each $28,500 $0 11,880 FT Level C Wayfinding At intersections of CR 6/CR 83, CR 6/CR 19, and CR 19/Budd Avenue. 3 Each $9,000 $27, Miles Rest Stops ~1/mile 2 Each $5,600 $11,200 CR 110 to Game Farm Road Subtotal $2,164,950 Anticipated Implementation Potential Funding Sources Acquisition MnDNR (landowner) owns property and will continue to own/operate. No additional acquisition needs are foreseen. 0 SQ FT $1 $0 Base Trail Construction Existing Aggregate Trail - May consider paving at a later date if demand warrants and DNR (landowner) supports 0 LN FT $100 $0 Specialized Construction Considerations Lump 0 Sum $0 TBD - When significant continuous/ Future Park District GO $0 contiguous segment is Bonds Boardwalk 0 LN FT $800 $0 established. Pedestrian Bridge 0 Each $300,000 $0 Level A Wayfinding 0 Each $45,000 $0 Level B Wayfinding At start/terminus of shared route with Luce Line State Trail 2 Each $28,500 $57,000 11,405 FT Level C Wayfinding At mid point along shared route with Luce Line State Trail 1 Each $9,000 $9, Miles Rest Stops ~1/mile 2 Each $5,600 $11,200 Luce Line State Trail to CR 15 Acquisition Subtotal $77,200 Assumes an average acquisition of 5' for road based portions and 20' for independent corridor portions of Segment C. 79,275 SQ FT $1 $79,275 Base Trail Construction 17,210 LN FT $100 $1,721,000 Embankment work and convert rural Specialized Construction Considerations road to curb and gutter section and significant slope stabilization in Kingswood Park. Lump 1 Sum $1,830,000 $1,830,000 Boardwalk 0 LN FT $800 $0 Pedestrian Bridge 0 Each $300,000 $0 Level A Wayfinding 0 Each $45,000 $0 Level B Wayfinding Near planned parking lot (Kingswood) 1 Each $28,500 $28,500 17,210 FT Level C Wayfinding At Crossing of CR 15, south end of Kingswood, and midpoint between Kingswood and Luce Line State Trail along Game Farm Road 3 Each $9,000 $27, Miles Rest Stops ~1/mile 4 Each $5,600 $22,400 Subtotal $3,708, yrs. - Following completion of acquisition. Desirable to coordinate with future road work. 15+ yrs. - Following completion of acquisition. Desirable to coordinate with future road work for road based segments and/or future development of Kingswood SRF. Future Park District GO Bonds Met Council CIP Grant (Not Secured) Hennepin County Bikeway Grant (Not Secured) Federal Recreation Trail Program Grant (Not Secured) Federal Transportation Grant (Not Secured) Future Park District GO Bonds Met Council CIP Grant (Not Secured) Hennepin County Bikeway Grant (Not Secured) Federal Recreation Trail Program Grant (Not Secured) Segment D: Gale Woods Farm (Minnetrista) CR 15 to Dakota Rail Regional Trail Acquisition Almost completely within Gale Woods Farm. Approximately 260' of easement required from Boys and Girls Club. This may be resolved through a greater land swap. 5,200 SQ FT $1 $5,200 Base Trail Construction New Trail Construction - Park Setting 4,750 LN FT $100 $475, yrs. - Specialized Construction Considerations Lump 0 Sum $0 simultaneously or following completion $0 of connection to Kingswood SRF. Boardwalk 0 LN FT $800 $0 Pedestrian Bridge 0 Each $300,000 $0 Level A Wayfinding 0 Each $45,000 $0 Level B Wayfinding 0 Each $28,500 $0 4,750 FT Level C Wayfinding 0 Each $9,000 $ Miles Rest Stops ~1/mile 1 Each $5,600 $5,600 Subtotal $485,800 Future Park District GO Bonds Met Council CIP Grant (Not Secured) Hennepin County Bikeway Grant (Not Secured) Federal Recreation Trail Program Grant (Not Secured)

97 Segment Summary Segment E: Dakota Rail Regional Trail (Minnetrista) Segment F: Six Mile Marsh (Minnetrista) Segment G: Woodland Cove (Minnetrista) Segment H: Carver Park Reserve I (Laketown Township) Segment I: Carver Park Reserve II (Victoria/Laketown Township) From - To Gale Woods Farm to ~700' West of West Tonka Recreation Area Item Assessment/Proposed Location(s) Qty Unit Unit Price Total Permit from HCRRA (landowner) already in place. No additional Acquisition acquisition needs are foreseen. 0 SQ FT $1 $0 Existing Trail - Base Trail Construction No Improvements Required 0 LN FT $100 $0 Specialized Construction Lump Considerations 0 Sum $0 $0 Boardwalk 0 LN FT $800 $0 Pedestrian Bridge 0 Each $300,000 $0 Level A Wayfinding Upgrade Existing Level B to Level A 1 Each $16,500 $16,500 Level B Wayfinding Each $28,500 $0 6,755 FT Level C Wayfinding At start/terminus of shared route with Dakota Rail Regional Trail 2 Each $9,000 $18, Miles Rest Stops ~1/mile 1 Each $5,600 $5,600 Dakota Rail Regional Trail to Kings Point Road Acquisition Subtotal $40,100 Assumes an average acquisition of 5' for road based portions and 20' for independent corridor portions of Segment F. 57,475 SQ FT $1 $57,475 Base Trail Construction 7,140 LN FT $100 $714,000 Specialized Construction Considerations Lump 0 Sum $0 $0 Boardwalk 940 LN FT $800 $752,000 Pedestrian Bridge 1 Each $300,000 $300,000 Level A Wayfinding 0 Each $45,000 $0 Level B Wayfinding Six Mile Marsh Area 1 Each $28,500 $28,500 8,080 FT Level C Wayfinding 0 Each $9,000 $ Miles Rest Stops ~1/mile 2 Each $5,600 $11,200 Kings Point Road to TH 7 Acquisition Subtotal $1,863,175 20' corridor through Woodland Cove Development. 150,000 SQ FT $1 $150,000 Base Trail Construction 8,600 LN FT $100 $860,000 Specialized Construction Considerations Costs are for upgrading a planned local trail to regional trail standards Lump Sum $0 $0 Boardwalk 380 LN FT $800 $304,000 Pedestrian Bridge Each $300,000 $0 Level A Wayfinding Each $45,000 $0 Level B Wayfinding Each $28,500 $0 8,980 FT Level C Wayfinding At road crossing within Woodland Cove 1 Each $9,000 $9, Miles Rest Stops ~1/mile 1 Each $5,600 $5,600 TH 7 to Nature Center Area Acquisition Subtotal $1,328,600 Completely within Carver Park Reserve. No additional acquisition needs are foreseen. 0 SQ FT $1 $0 Base Trail Construction New Trail Construction - Park Setting 9,015 LN FT $100 $901,500 Specialized Construction Considerations Lump 0 Sum $0 $0 Boardwalk 0 LN FT $800 $0 Pedestrian Bridge 0 Each $300,000 $0 Level A Wayfinding 0 Each $45,000 $0 Level B Wayfinding Southside of TH 7 (Carver) 1 Each $28,500 $28,500 9,015 FT Level C Wayfinding Location TBD (Carver) 1 Each $9,000 $9, Miles Rest Stops ~1/mile 2 Each $5,600 $11,200 Nature Center Area to Lake Minnetonka LRT Regional Trail Acquisition Base Trail Construction Subtotal $950,200 Completely within Carver Park Reserve. No additional acquisition needs are foreseen. 0 SQ FT $1 $0 Existing Trail - No Improvements Required 0 LN FT $100 $0 Anticipated Implementation Potential Funding Sources Specialized Construction Considerations Lump 0 Sum $0 $ or Later - When significant continuous/ Future Park District GO Boardwalk 0 LN FT $800 $0 contiguous segment is Bonds Pedestrian Bridge 0 Each $300,000 established. $0 Level A Wayfinding Near existing parking lot on Park Drive (Carver) 1 Each $45,000 $45,000 Level B Wayfinding Near Lowry Nature Center area (Carver) 1 Each $28,500 $28,500 11,855 FT Level C Wayfinding Location TBD (Carver) 1 Each $9,000 $9, Miles Rest Stops ~1/mile 3 Each $5,600 $16,800 Lake Independence Regional Trail (Baker) to Lake Minnetonka Regional Trail (Carver) Acquisition Minimum acquisition needs. Additional land may be acquired to increase desirability of trail corridor and/or incorporate areas of natural/cultural resource significance. Subtotal $99, ,450 SQ FT $1-3 $435,700 Base Trail Construction 58,595 LN FT $100 $5,859,500 Specialized Construction Considerations 2 Lump Sum Varies $2,580,000 Boardwalk 1,320 LN FT $800 $1,056,000 Pedestrian Bridge 1 Each $300,000 $300,000 Level A Wayfinding 3 Each $15,000- $106,500 $40,000 Level B Wayfinding 6 Each $25,000 $171,000 89,930 FT Level C Wayfinding 12 Each $9,000 $108, Miles Rest Stops 18 Each $5,600 $100,800 Total $10,717,500 Total Construction $10,281,800 Total Land Acquisition $435,700 Future Park District GO TBD - When Bonds significant continuous/ contiguous segment is established. 10+ yrs. - Following completion of acquisition. Desirable to coordinate with future road work for road based segments. Reconstruction at end of local trail's useful life and/or completion of adjacent trail segments 2019/ Following construction of Woodland Cove Development and increased demand as a result of ~1,100 new residential units. Future Park District GO Bonds Met Council CIP Grant (Not Secured) Hennepin County Bikeway Grant (Not Secured) Federal Recreation Trail Program Grant (Not Secured) Future Park District GO Bonds Future Park District GO Bonds Met Council CIP Grant (Not Secured) Federal Recreation Trail Program Grant (Not Secured)

98 INTERGOVERNMENTAL AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT COMMITTEE REQUEST FOR ACTION Meeting Date: 11/06/14 Business Item: New Item Number: 4B Division: Planning, Design & Technology Originating Source: Jonathan Vlaming, Assoc. Supt. Agenda Item: Update on External Projects with Park/Trail Impacts Superintendent s Recommendation: NO ACTION REQUIRED; THIS ITEM IS FOR INFORMATION AND DISCUSSION. The following information was prepared by Kelly Grissman, Director of Planning and John Barten, Director of Natural Resources. Background: There are several external projects in various levels of planning and design in which impacts to Park District land are anticipated. Staff works closely with external agencies to eliminate or minimize impacts to parkland. In some cases, impacts cannot be easily eliminated. Park District Policy XII - Diversions/Adjacent Land Use/Interim Uses/Divestment states that the Board strongly opposes diversion of Park District property by any individual, institution or organization, public or private, for any purpose other than those for which the lands were acquired. Where proposed diversions of park property appear to be in the best interest of the Park District and where all other alternatives have been exhausted, and where the diversion poses no threat to the Park District s natural or recreational resources, and only under these conditions, requests will be taken under consideration by the Board on an individual basis. In those instances where the Board determines that a proposed diversion upon Park District property may meet these conditions; easements, permits or conversions may be granted which include the following requirements: Restoration of any physical or natural property removed or damaged, or equivalent monetary compensation shall be provided. Compensation will reflect the impact of the intrusion on the aesthetic and recreational values of parkland as well as the market value of affected land measured by its highest and best use, and for associated administrative costs. In any case where conversion of Park District land to other uses is proposed, applicants must satisfy Metropolitan Council policies governing such conversions, including, but not limited to, the requirement that equally valuable land or facilities be exchanged. The intention of this Committee Action is to provide a brief overview of several proposed projects in which parkland impacts are anticipated. Staff will be available at the Committee meeting to answer questions; however, a formal presentation is not anticipated. Individual projects will be forwarded to the Board for further review, discussion, and approval at which time an external agency submits a formal request which satisfies the aforementioned Policy.

99 Great River Energy Transmission Line Upgrade Fish Lake Regional Park/Medicine Lake Regional Trail Maple Grove, Hennepin County Great River Energy (GRE) desires to upgrade an existing transmission line through Fish Lake Regional Park ( A on Reference 4B-1). GRE holds an easement through the park that allows this upgrade; however, GRE may be interested in shifting the easement area in the far west segment which is not on parkland onto parkland to reduce potential impacts to private parties. Staff s preference is to minimize impacts to parkland and the vegetation in this area as the vegetation provides a more desirable regional trail corridor by screening out adjacent development. However, GRE appears to hold a blanket easement over a significant portion of the eastern half of the park, which could negatively impact the park at a future date in the event GRE further expands/upgrades its infrastructure. Staff will evaluate the pros/cons of potentially swapping a new easement in the western portion of the park for limiting the easement area in the eastern portion of the park in the event GRE requests formal consideration of this proposal. City of Maple Grove - Weaver Lake Road Roundabout Medicine Lake Regional Trail Maple Grove, Hennepin County The City of Maple Grove is exploring the use of a roundabout at the intersection of Weaver Lake Road, Xene Lane, and the entrance to Weaver Lake Elementary School ( B on Reference 4B-1). The entrance is currently skewed and presents safety and traffic flow concerns. Medicine Lake Regional Trail is located immediately east of the intersection area and crosses Weaver Lake Road via an existing underpass. The City anticipates that the project will require approximately 10,000 sq ft (1/4 acre) of permanent easement. The City has addressed staff s preliminary request to eliminate potential impacts to the existing underpass structure and shift the roundabout as far west as possible. Staff are working with City representatives to review potential mitigation sites. Since there are both Land and Water Conservation Fund and Metropolitan Council deed restrictions on the affected property, the City will also need to fulfill the requirements of the National Park Service and Metropolitan Council in respect to conversion of parkland. Great River Energy Transmission Line Upgrade Murphy-Hanrehan Park Reserve and Clearly Lake Regional Park Savage/Credit River Township, Scott County GRE is updating a transmission line which runs along the western border of Murphy- Hanrehan Park Reserve and northern boundary of Clearly Lake Regional Park ( C on Reference 4B-1). While there is an easement in place, there is a small section of easement which does not allow for the line to be upgraded without revising the existing easement. Staff will work with GRE to identify appropriate mitigation measures.

100 Scott County CR 27 Improvements Clearly Lake Regional Park Credit River Township, Scott County Scott County is preparing for a future road improvement project for CR 27 which runs along the eastern border of Cleary Regional Park ( D on Reference 4B-1). The work will likely include expansion of CR 27 from two lane configuration north of CR 21 to four lanes south of CR 21 essentially the northeast corner of the park. The primary purpose of the project is to address documented safety concerns and existing and forecasted congestion. The transition from two to four lanes would occur immediately south of CR 27/CR 21 intersection and include impacts to Clearly Lake Regional Park. Impacts include additional right-of-way and realignment of an existing paved trail. Staff are looking at potential mitigation sites to offset the right-of-way needs. Since there are Metropolitan Council deed restrictions on the affected property, the County will also need to fulfill the requirements of the Metropolitan Council in respect to conversion of parkland. Metropolitan Council Environmental Services TH 7 Sewer Interceptor Reroute/Improvements Lake Minnetonka Regional Park Minnestrista, Hennepin County As was discussed with Board earlier this year, Metropolitan Council Environmental Services (MCES) is looking to upgrade existing sewer lines along the north side of TH 7 adjacent to Lake Minnetonka Regional Park ( E on Reference 4B-1). Replacing the pipe in this location and installing a second parallel line would have significant park impacts as this area has substantial topography making construction more difficult and with a greater footprint. Instead of replacing the pipe in its current location, staff have worked with MCES to identify an alternative location which would minimize park impacts. As currently proposed MCES will be moving forward with abandoning the existing corridor along TH 7 and rerouting the sewer interceptor within the Lotus Drive right-of-way and through existing easement areas through the eastern, more developed portion of the park. While there would be construction impacts and potential for a small amount of additional permanent easement, they would be limited and substantially less than the TH 7 route. MCES staff are also supportive of restricting work through the active park areas to account for peak recreation times. City of Minnetrista Water Treatment Project Dakota Rail Regional Trail and Gale Woods Farm Minnetrista, Hennepin County The City of Minnetrista is currently planning for a new water treatment project that requires new easements and pipes through most of the eastern half of the City ( F on Reference 4B-1). The proposal includes new water pipes and associated easements along Dakota Rail Regional Trail and the northeastern border of Gale Woods Farm. The City is proposing directional boring to install the pipe; however, the Dakota Rail Regional Trail would need to be closed during construction. Staff are currently reviewing the City s proposal which includes several creative mitigation strategies associated with securing right-of-way for the future regional trail in this area.

101 City of Champlin Flood Plain/Dyke Work Elm Creek Park Reserve Champlin, Hennepin County The City of Champlin is proposing construction of a dyke adjacent to and on Park District property in the northeast corner of Elm Creek Park Reserve ( G on Reference 4B-1). The project would modify the current floodplain resulting in the removal of approximately 25 homes from the floodplain. There would likely be minor impacts to the beginner/adaptive loop of the single track mountain bike loop which would be mitigated for as part of the project. Staff are currently reviewing the City s proposal to determine the extent of potential parkland impacts and appropriate mitigation measures. Relationship to the Vision Plan The Request for Action supports the following element(s) of the Vision Plan: Protect the region's water and natural resources Collaborate across boundaries Relationship to the Policy Statement The Request for Action supports the following element(s) of the Policy Statement: Policy XII-a: Diversions of Parkland

102 Reference 4B-1