4E, Resolution 2008-15 Supporting the MN DNR Trail

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Comprehensive Plan and Strategies address trail segments that are needed to connect the community to parks, schools, libraries, and recreation. The proposed trail from Perry Park to the existing trails leading to Tony Schmidt Regional Park is listed as a top priority (trail #2 of Strategies) within those strategies. Ramsey County Parks and Recreation recently completed the trail from Tony Schmidt Regional Park under the railroad tracks (underpass), connecting to an existing lift station road (proposed segment B) that leads to the proposed Perry Park trail to the southwest and to County Road E2 to the north. As part of the Tony Schmidt Master Plan, the County has proposed to extend this trail from County Road E2 into Ramsey County Open Space, past the Arden Hills Library to Mounds View High School (see attachment G: Tony Schmidt Development Map), once again connecting parks, schools, libraries, and recreation within our community. Completion ofthis trail connection will demonstate the City's and County's commitment to providing safe links for biking and walking opportunities in our communities. 43. Impact on Adjoining Landowners in the Vicinity of the Project: The City park land and open space in this area provides a beautiful recreational experience for all trail users. The proposed trail will have no negative or adverse impact on adjoining landowners, since it will be constructed entirely on City Park land and Ramsey County Open Space. The neighbors surrounding Perry Park will be positively impacted with the addition of this trail. Segment A of the proposed trail will improve an already existing unofficial foot path that is hazardous and not maintained. This will positively impact the City and regional area by providing a safe, maintained, and accessible link to Tony Schmidt Regional Park as well as recreational opportunities to residents and visitors. The Parks, Trails, and Recreation Committee, which is comprised of Arden Hills residents, is strongly in favor of this trail link. The Committee has listed this trail link within the City's Strategies for Parks, Trails, Recreation Community Building as a top priority to be completed as soon as possible. 44. Attention to the Potential Environmental Impact of the Project and Efforts to Avoid or Mitigate Adverse Effects: To determine the location ofthis trail, we considered the following information: I. Obstructions within the area. 2. Topography of the area. 3. Purpose ofthe trail. 4. Impacts to residents and wildlife. As a result of this analysis, staff recommends that the pathway navigate through both City park land and Ramsey County Open Space. Initially, staff considered an alternate location for this trail, which was the most direct route leading up to Perry Park. However, constructing the trail in this location would have included extensive removal of significant trees and disruption to wildlife. The project would have also required numerous retaining walls, stairs, switchbacks, alternate additional routes for ADA accessibility, and significant grading and excavation. Due to these significant impacts, the currently selected location would be preferrable. Page 9