02-18-14 Jt Meeting - Laserfiche WebLink

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ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION—FEBRUARY 18, 2014 8 prioritize trail segments and she understands that not all segments can be completed at once. She then discussed the trail connections with the highest priority. She reported that the PTRC was pleased with the information gathered from the community survey. It was noted that the results would be posted on the City's website and recommended that an article be drafted for an upcoming City newsletter. Councilmember McClung suggested that a member of the newsletter committee work with the PTRC to draft an article for the City newsletter. Mayor Grant recommended that the newsletter article be short and concise while directing residents to the City's website for additional information on the community survey. Ms. O'Malley thanked the Council for allowing the PTRC to complete the community survey. Councilmember McClung was pleased that 84 residents responded. He stated that the results will assist the City in prioritizing funding sources for future park improvements. Councilmember Holmes asked if the survey results pointed to any other park amenities that the Council should be aware of Parks and Recreation Manager Olson stated that pickle ball is growing in popularity, and a splash pad is also of interest to residents. Mr. Van Valkenburg explained that the PTRC created a subcommittee to address safety issues within the City's trail system. The subcommittee was focusing on the biggest needs, such as County Road E and Old Highway 10. He discussed the definition of a trail noting that this does not always entail an expensive paved surface. He commented that the PTRC wanted to improve connections throughout the City. Councilmember Holden stated that connectivity along New Brighton Road and County Road E are priorities, along with getting pedestrians/bicyclists to Perry Park. She indicated that the railroad crossing is a big concern. Mayor Grant suggested that the PTRC focus on public safety. He believed this is of the utmost concern. He recommended that the PTRC pursue grant opportunities as funding for new trail segments will be tight. Councilmember McClung agreed stating public safety should be the PTRC's first priority and bottlenecks are a second concern. A final concern would be major north/south or east/west connections to tie the neighborhoods within the City together. This would allow residents to get from one side of Arden Hills to the other. Councilmember Holden suggested that the PTRC investigate the worth that trails add to property value. This information would be important for residents to review if new trails are proposed in the future.