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ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION – MARCH 21, 2016 7 PTRC Committee Member Scott stated the purpose of the PTRC was to advise the City Council on matters related to parks, walking trails, and community education planning programs. PTRC Chair Straumann summarized projects completed in 2015 that included trail segment improvements, a TCAAP park amenities study, and creation of a maintenance program. PTRC Committee Member Van Valkenburg reviewed the completed 2015 projects that pertained to the various City parks and included a new basketball system and net replacements, garden enhancements, new benches, a pickleball court, a push light system, and the Bark and Rec Day event. He indicated the 2016 Work Plan included a second dog park at Perry Park (in addition to the dog park at Hazelnut Park), parking lot improvements at Ingerson Park, a new sign at Arden Manor Park, and addressed trail connection gaps. Councilmember Holden asked for clarification as to why a dog park would be added at Perry Park. Recreation Coordinator Grant stated that in 2015, Perry Park was utilized for storing construction equipment related to the nearby road reconstruction project. She also said that due to declining softball enrollment, the additional parking spaces that were once necessary for softball are no longer needed. In 2016, it was recommended to add a dog park at Perry Park due to ease of access, availability of parking, and to provide a second option in addition to Hazelnut Park, which can be difficult for some people to access due to a large hill. Resident Volunteer Bob Mullen discussed his past and future planned contributions to Floral Park which included increasing the types of plant and floral species. PTRC Chair Straumann summarized the ongoing parks and trails maintenance and improvements priorities that included County Road F (sidewalk gap), County Road H bridge (trail), County Road E2 (trail) and New Brighton Road (underpass/standalone trail study in conjunction with the City of New Brighton and the Railroad). Councilmember Holden stated that regarding New Brighton Road, the Railroad would dictate where the trail could be located. She said that based on the most recent communication received from the Railroad, there are no plans to replace the bridge on New Brighton Road. She agreed the City of New Brighton should be consulted if the Committee decided to pursue this. Mayor Grant stated that the Railroad is using the rail line much heavier than in the past and that cost would be a factor. Recreation Programmer Grant stated this was a high safety concern area and the Council agreed. PTRC Committee Member Van Valkenburg stated the Committee continued to pursue grant opportunities, sponsorships, and partnerships with the Arden Hills Foundation as well as the local universities and businesses, and said that donations were received for special events.