2A, Trail Maintenance Policy - Laserfiche WebLink

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• Mowing — Mowing is done on a periodic basis to prevent trails from becoming overgrown. Keeping the trail surface clean is one of the most important aspects of trail maintenance. Mud and other sediment should be removed when possible to ensure the safety of the users and to increase the life expectancy of the trail itself. Grass along trails will be mowed at least 2 feet from the trail. When possible, grass clippings should be directed away from the trail. • Tree and Brush Management — Trees and shrubs along the trails will be managed to keep them from interfering with trail use, eliminate hazards, prevent trail damage and ensure a healthy plant structure. Removal of woody vegetation at least 2 feet from the trail should minimize the need for frequent mechanical or hand pruning to maintain horizontal and vertical clearances. Selective removal or trimming of trees should help maintain or create desirable views from the trail. These types of activities will be performed on a scheduled basis annually, but may also be completed as needed. • Snow and Ice Removal—Arden Hills trail snow plowing begins as soon as possible after a significant snowfall. Sidewalks and trails that are maintained by the City during the winter months will be cleared of accumulated snow but will not be maintained to a"clean pavement" condition. The City of Arden Hills does not have a dry pavement policy so those using City maintained trails are expected to exercise careful judgment and caution during winter months. The following sidewalk and trail areas will not be maintained by the City's Public Works Department in the winter months due to steep grades or dangerous sidewalk conditions: • Arden View Drive to Colleen Avenue Trail • Cummings Park-Lexington Avenue to Cummings Ball Field • Cummings Park-North Water Tower to Hamline Avenue. The City of Arden Hills posts the aforementioned trail locations as "Minimal Maintenance Trails" during the winter months. Non- Routine Trail Tasks The Public Works Department performs a wide variety of non-routine maintenance tasks within the parks and trail system. The extent and frequency of maintenance schedules will vary greatly depending on the location and amount of use. These tasks are performed less frequently then the routine tasks but are important in extending the life expectancy of trails, providing the highest quality product to the residents and ensuring the safety of trail users. • Trail Inspection — Trails will be inspected as time permits. Inspections will include the trail surface, culverts and water crossings, all amenities, signs and surrounding vegetation. Potential safety problems will always take priority when scheduling maintenance. Vandalism left unattended encourages more of the same and will be a high priority for maintenance. Gang graffiti and "tagging art" should be documented with incident reports and police should be notified, then the graffiti removed or covered as soon as possible. Page 2 of 4