04-29-2026 Special JDA Agenda Packet

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recollection on why the TRC was set at 12 feet instead of eight feet. She reported the end discussion was to conform to the 10 foot trail width. Commissioner McGuire recalled there was an extended conversation on this topic, noting she was not able to attend this meeting. She discussed how there could be a lot of walkers and bikers on this trail, which may have led to the 12 foot width. She inquired if the trail could be striped if 10 feet wide. Mr. Fosmo indicated he does not typically see multi-use trails striped separate for bikes and pedestrians. Commissioner Weber noted no final action was being taken on this item rather, the JDA would be recommending that Ramsey County and the Arden Hills City Council review the TRC amendments. Commissioner McGuire asked if it would be difficult to make the multi-use trail 12 feet wide. Chair Wicklund stated Ramsey County’s standard for trails was 10 feet. Mr. Fosmo indicated a 12 foot trail would require stormwater treatment for the entire trail from the Rice Creek Watershed District, while this would not be required with a 10 foot trail. John Mazzitello, Ramsey County Public Works Director, commented the County’s standard was to construct 10 foot wide trails. He noted this was done for maintenance purposes because they could be plowed with one pass while a 12 foot wide trail would require two passes. He stated there would be a bigger maintenance burden for the City of Arden Hills if the trail were 12 feet wide. He explained staff was not able to track down in the minutes why a 12 foot trail was proposed. He commented further on the differences between a right of way trail and a regional trail. Director Mitchell reported this was the case, noting she was not able to find a reason for the 12 foot wide trail. Commissioner Jebens-Singh explained at Ramsey County’s recent workshop meeting the commissioners discussed building tax capacity. She indicated the completion of the Rice Creek Commons project would build tax capacity for both the County and City. She recommended the JDA not require and oversized right of way as this land would not be generating tax capacity. Commissioner McGuire concurred and recommended the JDA also not overpark the site because parking lots do not generate tax capacity either. Motion by Commissioner Jebens-Singh seconded by Commissioner Weber to recommend staff bring forward the TCAAP Redevelopment Code (TRC) amendment changing the trail width from 12 feet to 10 feet to the City of Arden Hills and Ramsey County for their consideration. Motion carried.