01-14-14 PTRC Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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Parks, Trails & Recreation Committee Meeting Minutes January 14, 2014 Page 4 4. NEW BUSINESS A. Crosswalk Discussion Committee Member Petersen recapped that residents at Fox Ridge expressed concern about the access to Royal Hills Park. He received an email explaining the concerns which he ultimately forwarded on to Ms. Olson. He indicated the residents walk down the east side and cross at the corner by his home and there is no curb cut to get into the park with strollers and wheelchairs. The only other option is to use the crosswalk at Royal Hills Drive and put the strollers on the grass. He indicated the residents would like a crosswalk at the corner by his house so they can cross there. Discussion ensued regarding the issue and Public Works Director Maurer indicated that studies indicate that striped crosswalks at uncontrolled intersections are actually less safe than if nothing were there. Reports indicate that the number of people that make full stops at a stop sign is less than 12% and this is the same as with a crosswalk. He indicated there is no way to make people cross at a crosswalk as they are going to cross wherever they feel safe. Mr. Maurer indicated he feels at this time the road is striped where residents feel most safe crossing and adding another crosswalk would be of no benefit. He suggested the committee do something similar to what was done with Valentine Hills, and engage the neighborhood to find out what the residents want. It was felt the playstructure could be put on a list of enhancements for the park and at that point in time the location of the playstructure could be looked at in conjunction with the pathway. B. Other New Business None. 5. REPORTS A.City Council Report Council Liaison McClung also recapped that there will be two Public Hearings regarding franchise fees, one on February 10th and the other on February 24th. Mr. McClung indicated that there will be a TCAAP Open House on Wednesday, January nd 22, at 5:30 p.m. in the Marsden Room. At the Open House consultants will be presenting the first draft of the Master Plan which also includes potential trails and green space. Council Liaison McClung indicated he highly recommends that all attend and would be interested in the committees feedback and guidance regarding the green space that is being provided and the types of parks that are included in the Master Plan. application for the Federal Tap Funding which would provide money for trails. He indicated Council is fully aware that this is an important segment and they give their full support.