12-18-2001 PTRC Meeting Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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I Arden Hills Park and Recreation Committee Meeting December 18,2001 4 Committee Member Crassweller suggested removing the trail and using the dollars to install benches. Mr. Ingraham stated that there is a Committee consensus in not replacing the backstop and to remove the trail. Chair Messerly stated that he has observed the area and noted that the backstop is used a lot. Committee Member Thompson noted that if it were a baseball field they would need to install bases. Chair Messerly stated that they did not need to install bases that this park would be used for pick up games. Committee Member Crassweller stated that if they are going to leave this as an open space for people to use for games that they should still replace the backstop for safety purposes. He agreed with Chair Messerly adding that he sees a lot of kids playing pickup games. Committee Member Zilmer noted that it would not be worth it unless the backstop they install is large enough to prevent the balls from rolling into the street. Chair Messerly asked the Committee for their feedback. The Committee agreed,by consensus, to remove the entire trail and the backstop. Mr. Ingraham stated that there has been a lot of feedback regarding the underpass and suggested lobbying with the Ramsey County Commissioners. He referenced the loop trail around Lake Johanna stating that due to the large amount of private property everyone thought the trail would be a great idea. Council Liaison Larson stated that this Committee proposed the loop trail improvements and that the segments are broken down in such a way that it is difficult to see the circle route around Lake Johanna. He stated that people do walk this area frequently. Mr. Ingraham suggested clarifying and then reinforcing the route of the trail. Ms. Olson referenced page 19 stating that the shack identified should be Freeway. Mr. Ingraham stated that he would like to add more about the context of the Regional Parks and talk more about them noting that the Metropolitan Council would be interested in this. He suggested adding a couple of paragraphs and expanding on the natural resources. He stated that he feels very good about the document and that if they are comfortable with the changes discussed they can make it final. Mr. Moore stated that this is a very important document and suggested that Staff and the City Administrator review the final draft to be sure they are on track. Mr. Ingraham stated that he is • willing to do whatever the Committee prefers.