7B, Resolution 2011-017 Local Trail Connections Program Grant

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Financial Implications Funding for the 2011 Local Trail Connection Program has not yet been determined. Approximately $655,000 was available in 2010 through the “In Lieu Of” lottery proceeds. This funding is divided between the Local Trail Connections Program and the Regional Trail Program. Grant awards will be announced in July of 2011. The minimum grant request is $5,000 and the maximum award is $100,000. These grants are 50/50 “cash match” reimbursement grants. The grantee must complete the project and fully pay for it, produce documentation that shows actual expenditures and then they will receive half of what was spent up to their grant award. The grant award and match cannot be used for in- house labor services and/or to meet existing payroll. Only contract services, materials, and supplies are reimbursable. Other state funds or grants, or Metropolitan Council grants cannot match these grants. All projects awarded through this grant round must be completed by June 30, 2013. All facilities that are funded through this program also require a commitment from the applicant that the trail will be in place and maintained for no less than twenty years. The resolution before you tonight is a requirement of the grant application (Attachment B). The amount of the Lexington Avenue Pathway Project is estimated at $666,993.60 for construction and project administration. Both of these costs are eligible for reimbursement. The maximum grant award is $100,000 and therefore, the City match would be $566,993.60. This estimate takes into account the wetlands that exist in this area. Recognizing the importance of protecting the wetlands, the design will reflect minimal environmental impacts. Adjacent to wetland areas, the trail is being designed to include retaining walls to minimize or eliminate encroachments. In addition, approximately 425 feet of the proposed trail will cross over the east side of the Catholic United Financial property at 3499 Lexington Avenue North. The right of way in this area does not appear to be sufficient for the proposed pathway. The estimate accounts for possible acquisition of right of way. However, the City does not need to solidify an easement/right of way acquisition at this time. Those discussions can take place if the City is successful in securing funding for this pathway. Catholic United Financial was contacted and they are strongly in support of a pathway and provided a letter of support for the project. City Council Action Requested A motion to adopt Resolution No. 2011-017: Supporting the Local Trail Connections Program grant application made to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources for the creation of an off street shared use pathway on Lexington Avenue. 22 Page of P:\PR&PW\Parks\Memos\Council Memos\032811 Resolution 2011-017 Supporting DNR Local Trail Connections Program.doc