06-05-2023 JDA Agenda Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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Scott Yonke, Planning and Development Director for Ramsey County Parks and Recreation, presented the JDA with information on the Building 189 project schedule and commented on the proposed Rice Creek Commons regional trails. He commented further on the location of the Rice Creek Regional trail corridor. The long term improvements that were proposed for the trail corridor were reviewed. The evolution of the central segment of the Rice Creek North Regional Trail Corridor from 1998 to 2020 was discussed. He then commented on the future improvements within the Central Segment noting connectivity was the focus. It was noted Building 189 would be removed this spring and a large trailhead would be created in this area. Commissioner Reinhardt asked if the new trails would be ADA accessible. Mr. Yonke reported the new trails would be ADA accessible. Commissioner Fabel questioned how the trail crossed over the freeway. Mr. Yonke indicated the crossing occurred over the County Road H bridge. Commissioner Fabel inquired if there would be an ability for the trail to cross at Highway 96. Mr. Yonke stated there was a plan to cross Highway 96. He reported this matter was being addressed within the County’s master plan. Commissioner Fabel asked if the trailhead could have a community center. Mr. Yonke commented at this point, he was unsure what would be installed at the trailhead. He stated the County would be engaging the public to see what they would like to see in this area. Commissioner Frethem questioned if there would be County trails south of Highway 96 for TCAAP to connect to. Mr. Yonke reported Highway 96 was a regional trail and noted there were connections to Long Lake Regional Park and Vadnais Snail Regional Park. Commissioner Frethem thanked the County for the update on Building 189. She stated she was pleased this building would be coming down. Mr. Yonke explained the County had a webpage for this project if the public was interested in learning more. Commissioner Monson thanked the County for the presentation. She explained she appreciated the County’s vision for the trail corridor. She inquired when future improvements would be completed. Mr. Yonke stated the improvements were to be determined at this time. He noted Building 189 would be removed by the end of July. He indicated all future projects would move forward based on funding. He estimated it would take $15 to $30 million to construct the trails and anticipated it would take at least five years to complete. Chair Wicklund thanked Mr. Yonke for his presentation. b. Receive Presentation from Ramsey County Community & Economic Development (Economic Competitiveness & Inclusion Plan/Equitable Development Framework)