09-29-1998 PTRC Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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CITY OF ARDEN HILLS MEMORANDUM DATE: September 22, 1998 TO: Parks and Recreation Commission FROM: Brian Fritsinger, City Administrat SUBJECT: Bethel Colic e Park Development Pro osal Background The City has had several meetings with Bethel College representatives to discuss a possible joint development of a park. The location would be west of Old Highway 10, north of the railroad and east of Chatham. (See Exhibit A.) What May Be Part of the Possible Development? Bethel College has expressed a need for fast pitch softball diamonds, tennis courts and intermural fields. The City has identified the softball diamonds and soccer fields as its largest needs. Development Scenarios The City and Bethel have not yet held any serious conversations regarding how such a joint facility would be constructed and managed. Should the project be found feasible, City staff will need to investigate all options available and negotiate with Bethel. In concept, Bethel has discussed the following: Bethel donate the land to the City and work with the City on funding for the development; Bethel provide all maintenance for the park facilities; and Bethel/City need to agree on the elements to be developed, as well as the management of facilities. What is the Status of Discussions? Bethel has hired a consultant to complete a preliminary design to reflect agreed upon programming elements. This consultant is also developing a budget for the project. A traffic study and pedestrian crossing study is also being prepared. The City has completed a survey and wetland delineation of the site. Bethel representatives met with the City Council, at its September 21, 1998 Worksession, to have the first general conversation of the project with the Council. The City Council expressed interest in the proposal and directed City staff to continue discussions with Bethel. •