01-22-2022 PTRC Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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Plan Summary - The Arden Hills Park Trail and Open Space Plan is a guide to the future use, improvement and expan- sion of the Arden Hills ourdoor recreation system. Parks, trails and open space are essential compo- nents of community quality of life and are highly valued by city residents. This plan is intended to act as a guide to decision-making regarding recreation facilities and is based on public input gathered through a public opinion survey and a series of community meetings. Key elements and recommendations are: Trail Improvement and Connections Arden Hills is divided by many major roads, highways and railroads. These transportation corridors provide excellent regional access and mobility, but they separate neighborhoods and separate people from parks. Trail connections across, over or under the major highways and railroads are needed to tie the city together, create a comprehensive system of parks and trails, improve safety and enhance the feeling of community. Residents want trail improvements to existing trails, new trail segments and internal loop trails within parks. A variety of trail functions and surfaces are needed to meet varying recreation needs (walking, bikes, strollers, in-line skates, cross country skis, nature walks, running, etc.) and residents' desires. The trails master plan illustrates the city's vision for a comprehensive trail network. Building this network requires assistance from other agencies (such as MNDOT and Ramsey County) and the commitment from the city to improve and create trails. Park Renovation Overall, residents are satisfied with Arden Hills parks. However, improvements are desired which will increase the function and usability of existing parks. These improvements range from adding a bench and shade trees near a children's play area to reconfiguration of a park access road, parking lot and shelter building to increase safety and assure long term use of the park land. A systematic long- term approach to these park improvements is proposed. Open Space and Park Acquisition In general, the existing developed portion of Arden Hills is well served by parks. There are key acquisitions and enhancements needed to improve function and safety (such as parking and driveway changes at Perry Park) and to assure long-term use (such as access and parking for Cummings Park). Use of major portions of the TCAAP, Twin Cities Army Arsenal Property, for recreation and open space is important as TCAAP transitions from the former ammunition plant use to a mixed-use development area. Dedication of parks, open space and trails in accordance with the TCAAP Vento • Re-Use Master Plan will help assure an adequate supply of recreation and open space for new resi- dents and employees and enhanced recreation opportunities for existing Arden Hills residents. 3