CCP 04-10-2006 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Arden HiJls PTRC Members ~2 . February 9, 2006 4. Arden Hills' trail system is currently disjointed and not conducive to walking or cycling. Further, significant safety issues are posed by the use of increasingly busy city streets as connectors between trails or between residences and natural areas/trails. 5. Arden Hills is at the hub of several significant trails that extend for miles throughout the metropolitan region. However, the fragmented nature of Arden Hills' trails severely restricts access to these regional resources. 6. Approaches to developing or improving Arden Hills' parks and trails have been ad hoc. With a real vision for those resources there is greater likelihood of effective planning and efficient use of resources. 7. It is important that there be a unified vision for parks and trails that applies across all areas of the city. Development plans for Arden Hills north of Highway 96 - both TCAAP and AHATS - will include specific park and trail elements. The city should engage in discussions with the county, developers, national Guard representatives and others to assess and pursue collaborative opportunities for public recreation. 8. The experience of other municipalities in the region that have developed systems of parks and trails can inform decisions about the future of Arden Hills' parks and trails. 9. The city's financial support for its parks and trails has been limited. Clear policies are needed to identifY how future park and trail developments will be funded. 10. Developing the financial resources necessary to continually develop, improve and maintain Arden Hills' parks and trails will require a new level of political will in the city. A clear . vision for parks and trails that has the support ofthe City Council is essential to developing that will. VISION Parks and trails in Arden HiDs enbance tbe health and well-being of citizens, improve tbe value of citizens' property, and increase tbe desirability oftbe city as a place to live or work. The city's parks and trails compose a coherent network that: * Provides land- and water-based recreation, as well as convenient and safe access to parks, trails and recreation facilities in tbe region. Encourages non-motorized transportation and commuting. Supports and encourages access to lakes, marshes and wooded areas, aud seeks wise management ofthe city's natural resources. Provides connection between the portions of Arden HiDs south of Highway 96 and new development to the nortb, as well as among other neighborhoods otherwise separated by roads. Provides important resources to schools, colleges, employers and other organizations in the region. Strengthens community among citizens. * * * * * .