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HomeMy WebLinkAbout09-20-11 PTRCChair: Steve Scott (exp. 2011) Committee Members: Cindy Garretson (exp. 2011) Phil Kramlinger (exp. 2012) Don Messerly (exp. 2012) Chuck Michaelson (exp. 2011) Nancy O'Malley (exp. 2011) John Peck (exp. 2013) Harold Petersen (exp. 2013) Rich Straumann (exp. 2013) Council Liaison: Ed Werner 2kRzEN HILLS Parks, Trails, and Recreation Committee September 20, 2011 6:30 p.m. Arden Hills City Hall 1245 W. Highway 96 Arden Hills, MN 55112 651.792.7800 www.ci.arden-hills.mn.us City Vision A strong community that values our unique environment, our fiscal soundness, and our tradition as a desirable city in which to live, work, and play. Agenda Call to Order 1. APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA 2. MINUTES A. August 16, 2011 Regular Meeting 3. REPORTS A. City Council Report B. Public Works /Parks and Recreation Report 4. UNFINISHED BUSINESS A. Park Tour Evaluation Results B. Newsletter Articles C. Other Unfinished Business 5. NEW BUSINESS A. Floral Park No Parking Discussion B. Park Buckthorn Removal Discussion C. Other New Business 6. NEXT MEETING A. Tuesday, October 18, 2011 A quorum of the City Council may be present at this meeting. Agenda Item 2A: Minutes for Approval: August 16, 2011 ARE.,,1 HILLS CITY OF ARDEN HILLS PARKS, TRAILS AND RECREATION COMMITTEE MEETING — TRAIL WALK TUESDAY, AUGUST 16, 2011— 5:00 p.m. ARDEN HILLS CITY HALL CALL MEETING TO ORDER Chair Scott called the August 16, 2011, meeting of the Parks, Trails, and Recreation Committee to order at 5:20 p.m. MEMBERS PRESENT: Chair Steve Scott, John Peck, Nancy O'Malley, Harold Petersen, and Chuck Michaelson. OTHERS PRESENT: Park and Recreation Manager Michelle Olson. ABSENT: Committee Members Cindy Garretson, Phil Kramlinger, Don Messerly, Rich Straumann (All excused), and Council Liaison Ed Werner (excused). 1. APPROVAL OF AGENDA Parks and Recreation Manager added under 3.A. - Evaluation explanation. MOTION: Committee Member Peck motioned to approve the agenda as amended, seconded by Committee Member O'Malley. The motion carried unanimously (5 -0). 2. APPROVAL OF MINUTES — June 21, 2011 MOTION: Committee Member Petersen motioned to approve the June 21, 2011 minutes, seconded by Committee Member O'Malley. The motion carried unanimously (5 -0). 3. NEW BUSINESS A. Trail Walk Parks and Recreation Manager Olson explained the evaluation forms and the spreadsheet of trail segments. The official business meeting adjourned to go on a City trail walk. B. Other New Business None ADJOURNMENT MOTION: Committee Member Michaelson motioned to adjourn to a trail walk at 5:35 p.m., seconded by Committee Member O'Malley. The motion carried unanimously (5 -0) NEXT MEETING Tuesday, September 20, 2011 at 6:30 p.m. Agenda Item 4A: Park Tour Evaluation Results EN HILLS MEMORANDUM DATE: September 20, 2011 TO: Parks Trails and Recreation Committee FROM: Michelle Olson, Parks and Recreation Manager /11°9 SUBJECT: PTRC Park Tour Background The park tour on June 21, 2011 went well. We had good attendance and those members that missed the tour, were able to do the tour on their own and turn evaluations in at a later date. We were able to visit all fourteen parks. The park evaluation forms were collected from each committee member for each park and the results were compiled. Attached is an overall summary of the scores compared to last year and the individual evaluation scores and comments for each park. Discussion The park tour evaluation results are provided for the PTRC to review and discuss. 09202011 Park Tour Evaluation Results. doc PARK EVALUATION RESULTS OVERALL PARK RANKINGS Rankings: (1 -5) 1 - Poor, 2 - Below Average 3 - Average 4 - Above Average 5 - Outstanding 2011 2009 Variety of Park Amenities: Variety of Park Amenities: 1. Hazelnut Park - 4.6 Avg 1. Hazelnut Park - 4.5 Avg 2. Cummings Park - 4.5 Avg 2. Cummings Park - 4.3 Avg 3. Perry Park - 4.4 Avg 3. Perry Park - 4.2 Avg Condition of Amenities Condition of Amenities 1. Floral /Hazelnut Park - 4.3 Avg 1. 1. Perry Park - 4.5 Avg 2. Arden Oaks /Cummings Park- 4.2 Avg 2. 2. Hazelnut Park - 4.3 Avg 3. Perry Park - 4.1 Avg 3. 3.Cummings /Floral /Royal Hills Park - 4.2 Avg Park Upkeep Park Upkeep 1. Floral /Hazelnut/Royal Hills Park - 4.6 Avg 1. Perry Park - 4.6 Avg 2. Perry Park - 4.4 Avg 2. Arden Oaks Park - 4.0 Avg 3. Cummings Park - 4.3 Avg 3. Cummings /Floral /Royal Hills Park - 4.0 Avg Trails Trails 1. Perry Park - 4.4 Avg 1. 1.Crepeau Nature Preserve - 4.0 Avg 2. Cummings /Floral Park - 4.0 Avg 2. 2.Cummings Park - 3.8 Avg 3. Sampson Park - 3.8 Avg 3. 3.Hazelnut Park - 3.8 Avg Adequate Resting Benches /Resting Spots Adequate Resting Benches /Resting Spots 1. Cummings /Hazelnut/Perry Park - 4.4 Avg 1. Perry Park - 3.8 Avg 2. Floral Park - 4.3 Avg 2. Royal Hills Park - 3.8 Avg 3. Lindeys /Royal Hills Par - 4.0 Avg 3. Hazelnut Park - 3.8 Avg Park Signage Park Signage 1. Hazelnut - 4.5 Avg 1. Perry Park - 4.5 Avg 2. Royal Hills Park - 4.3 Avg 2. Floral Park - 4.3 Avg 3. Perry Park - 4.1 Avg 3. Hazelnut Park - 4.2 Avg Natural Beauty Natural Beauty 1. Floral Park - 4.9 Avg 1. Crepeau Nature Preserve - 4.8 Avg 2. Cummings Park - 4.7 Avg 2. Ingerson Park - 4.5 Avg 3. Crepeau Nature Preserve - 4.4 Avg 3. Floral Park - 4.2 Avg Overall Appearance Overall Appearance 1. Cummings Park - 4.8 Avg 1. Hazelnut Park - 4.5 Avg 2. Ingerson Park - 4.6 Avg 2. Cummings Park - 4.4 Avg 3. Floral /Hazelnut Park - 4.5 Avg 3. Floral Park - 4.3 Avg OVERALL AVG SCORE OVERALL AVG SCORE 1. Cummings /Floral /Hazelnut Park - 4.4 Avg 1. Hazelnut Park - 4.2 Avg 2. Perry Park - 4.3 Avg 2. Cummings Park - 4.1 Avg 3. Royal Hills Park - 4.1 Avg 3. Perry Park - 4.1 Avg PARK EVALUATION RESULTS ARDEN OAKS PARK Recent Improvements Playground mulch added July 2009. Park sign was repainted summer of 2009. Basketball court was resurfaced in 2011. Future Improvements Scheduled for Park Playground mulch will be replenished in 2012. Rankings 1. Variety of Park Amenities 3.6 avg 9 responses 2. Condition of Amenities 4.2 avg 9 responses 3. Park Upkeep 4.1 avg 9 responses 4. Trails N/A 5. Adequate Resting 3.8 avg 8 responses Benches /Resting Spots 6. Park Signage 3.8 avg 8 responses 7. Natural Beauty 4.0 avg 7 responses 8. Overall Appearance 4.3 avg 8 responses OVERALL AVERAGE 4.0 avg Final Comments — Suggestions for Improvements • nicely maintained • nice — looks well cared for • nice looking neighborhood park — ex+ • great neighborhood park • nice little neighborhood park • install small pavilion in open field • neighbor not in favor of improving basketball court — wonder why he lives there • barricade at trail entrance should be moved — don't quite understand why we cannot just do with signs • keep people from driving past parking area • for a small park well laid out • cute, well maintained neighborhood park • great play structure area • very pleasant setting — good condition and use for open space • lots of clover • could use new bench like green one nice basketball court • like recycling • great neighborhood park • could use more benches PARK EVALUATION RESULTS CREPEAU NATURE PRESERVE Recent Improvements Two of the main trails were wood chipped in the spring of 2008. Park sign(s) was painted in the summer of 2009. Park benches were added in 2011 as part of an Eagle Scout project. Future Improvements Scheduled for Park The wood foot bridge will have the deck reconstructed as part of an Eagle Scout project. Rankings 1. Variety of Park Amenities 2.7 avg 3 responses 2. Condition of Amenities 2.3 avg 3 responses 3. Park Upkeep 2.2 avg 6 responses 4. Trails 2.7 avg 7 responses 5. Adequate Resting 3.6 avg 5 responses Benches /Resting Spots 6. Park Signage 3.8 avg 5 responses 7. Natural Beauty 4.4 avg 8 responses 8. Overall Appearance 3.9 avg 7 responses OVERALL AVERAGE 3.2 avg Final Comments — Suqqestions for Improvements • nature preserve • need trail trimming to access benches • weedy bench and #2 bench has loose footings • paths need a lot of brush trimming • post is undone • bench not available — covered with weeds • trail needs trimming • nice to have a nature preserve in Arden Hills • nice sign and day lilies • bench obliterated by burdocks • park bench foundation heaving up • trails need chips — trim back regrowth • greenery around benches • one bench obscured by overgrowth • cut vegetation from benches • consider adding bark on trail and trim along trail • could use more benches — watch how they are set • good sign but covered by foliage • needs sign at entrance showing where trails go as well as points of interest • leave as natural area • great asset for Arden Hills • wood overgrown over trail • cut back greenery that is overwhelming benches • as much as the prairie restorations by past volunteers, Don Messerly, et al, how realistic is it for Arden Hills to maintain or restore the purity it had (open areas) before — any $$ grants available for prairie restoration — Eagle Scouts • one new bench and one overgrown bench • park needs some work • grass around bench • benches need work • paths need new mulch for walking • brush infringing onto trail — needs more wood chips — very muddy • landscaping good in front of sign • very restful — pretty area • seems like there is no clear mission for Crepeau — decide on mission and then build -up and maintain to support mission • suggest value as nature and historical site with informational signs and maintained walking paths PARK EVALUATION RESULTS CUMMINGS PARK Recent Improvements Tennis court/basketball courts were reconstructed in 2008. Old warming house was moved to Hazelnut in summer of 2008. Mulch was added to play structure area in summer of 2009. Park signs were repainted in summer of 2009. Irrigation — 2010. Full fertilizer program started — 2011. New bathroom partitions — 2011. Future Improvements Scheduled for Park Playground mulch will be replenished in June /July 2011. Rankings 1. Variety of Park Amenities 4.5 avg 8 responses 2. Condition of Amenities 4.2 avg 9 responses 3. Park Upkeep 4.3 avg 9 responses 4. Trails 4.0 avg 8 responses 5. Adequate Resting 4.4 avg 8 responses Benches /Resting Spots 6. Park Signage 3.9 avg 7 responses 7. Natural Beauty 4.7 avg 9 responses 8. Overall Appearance 4.8 avg 8 responses OVERALL AVERAGE 4.4 avg Final Comments — Suggestions for Improvements • nice amenities • some recent vandalism • concrete pad in pavilion sinking • nice tables • very nice, great asset to Arden Hills • raise concrete around shelter • trail a little steep • looks very nice • tennis courts and basketball court are excellent • fields are very nice • concrete around shelter is sinking and should be replaced ASAP • park upkeep very nice • playground structure is very nice • need trail sign, particularly for Cummings /Floral connection • trail to Floral in poor shape • excellent multi - purpose • some trails need maintenance • best city park in town • great amenities • park upkeep is well done • poor signage from the west • great facility • meet a couple who have lived in Arden Hills a year- they love the park and trails • green areas look very nice • tennis courts look good • in general a complete park • amenities are very good • lawn and grassy areas look good • trails are generally good — didn't see any really bad spots • given the presence of the pavilion and picnic shelter near playground there are adequate resting spots • good job to maintenance crew • almost perfect variety of amenities • nice new tables • some cement heaving • grass look great • good layout of trails • keep the benches coming • excellent usage of space • east side concrete has settled • hard for people to find park off of County Road F and Lexington • very pretty spot, nice hills and woods • nice park overall • there are huge weeds (mostly burdocks) in front of the Cummings Park sign — maybe dig these out and put in grass or shrubs • we need pavement of some kind put in at entrance to park (where pedestrians walk in to "R" of gate) — it is muddy, hard to navigate for elderly and handicapped • the benches in place are fine — would like to see additional benches at play area and along soccer fields • excellent job of trimming and mowing and all trash in cans • trails need signs • need remote sign to help find park PARK EVALUATION RESULTS FLORAL PARK Recent Improvements Playground mulch was added in July of 2009. Park sign(s) was painted in summer of 2009. Future Improvements Scheduled for Park Basketball Court and Tennis Court are scheduled to be resurfaced in 2012. Playground mulch is scheduled for replenishment in 2012. Park bench added in 2011 as part of bench implementation plan. Rankings 1. Variety of Park Amenities 4.3 avg 9 responses 2. Condition of Amenities 4.3 avg 9 responses 3. Park Upkeep 4.6 avg 9 responses 4. Trails 4.0 avg 7 responses 5. Adequate Resting 4.3 avg 7 responses Benches /Resting Spots 6. Park Signage 4.0 avg 7 responses 7. Natural Beauty 4.9 avg 7 responses 8. Overall Appearance 4.5 avg 8 responses OVERALL AVERAGE 4.4 avg Final Comments — Suggestions for Improvements • wood timber entrance steps falling apart • replant flower garden by entrance steps • park just feels good • short on time — next year start tour here first • great park — lots of open space • trails are nice • steps from street to park need to be replaced • beautiful multi -use park • back trails need some work • care for the dwarf day lilies on the street front/boulevard • Boy Scouts masked trails — good project • needs more park benches • flowers (day lilies) are pretty where does one park — on the yellow on the south end? • many nature features • great trail connections in all directions PARK EVALUATION RESULTS FREEWAY PARK Recent Improvements Park sign was repainted in 2009. Basketball court was resurfaced in fall 2009 /spring 2010. Playground mulch was replenished. Future Improvements Scheduled for Park Park swing that was damaged was removed and replaced with regular park bench in 2011. One park bench was added as part of bench implementation in 2011. Rankings 1. Variety of Park Amenities 3.6 avg 7 responses 2. Condition of Amenities 3.9 avg 9 responses 3. Park Upkeep 4.0 avg 8 responses 4. Trails N/A 0 responses 5. Adequate Resting 3.6 avg 7 responses Benches /Resting Spots 6. Park Signage 3.9 avg 7 responses 7. Natural Beauty 3.6 avg 7 responses 8. Overall Appearance 3.7 avg 9 responses OVERALL AVERAGE 3.8 avg Final Comments — Suggestions for Improvements • rain garden being installed • 2 new benches to be installed • lower park looks great • rain garden needs help • amentities are good for a neighborhood park • nicely mowed • new potty enclosure • playground entrance sign is overgrown with brush • sign shows a teeter totter — need proper signage • low spots on south end need to be filled • do the rain garden • condition of amenities — medium • weeds coming up in playground mulch — looks bad • busy during winter — nice neighborhood park • nice neighborhood park • what about using hockey rink for dogs in summer • need more benches • two benches coming • one of the few parks used more during winter (hockey) than summer • the "curb appeal" on County Road E isn't very appealing • if we can't make the hockey rink (boards) look better, what about some tree foliage around entry — I understand that accessibility is important but something "green" would look nice • need new street entrance sign — trim around it • what about two new benches • would get rid of sand box — not appealing or sanitary — otherwise is a great neighborhood park and skating site • signage is okay • need more benches PARK EVALUATION RESULTS HAZELNUT PARK Recent Improvements Tennis and Basketball Courts resurfaced in 2008. PTRC buckthorn removal projects in 2010. Ball field fence tops installed in summer 2009. Playground mulch replenished in July of 2010. Park signs repainted in summer of 2009. Future Improvements Scheduled for Park The church property adjacent to the park is being purchased by the City in 2011. Irrigation is proposed for all fields and landscaped areas in 2012. Rankings 1. Variety of Park Amenities 4.6 avg 8 responses 2. Condition of Amenities 4.3 avg 9 responses 3. Park Upkeep 4.6 avg 9 responses 4. Trails 3.7 avg 7 responses 5. Adequate Resting 4.4 avg 8 responses Benches /Resting Spots 6. Park Signage 4.5 avg 8 responses 7. Natural Beauty 4.5 avg 8 responses 8. Overall Appearance 4.5 avg 8 responses OVERALL AVERAGE 4.4 avg Final Comments — Suggestions for Improvements • very nice space utilization • could use hockey area for unleashed dog park • lot needs seal coating and crack filling • walking paths need resurfacing • great layout — room for many activities without feeling crowded • trails look good • not sure if enough benches regarding tennis • good access from neighborhood to Elmer L. Anderson trail • great variety of settings like Cummings • looks well cared for • entrance from parking lot spruced up • neighbor stopped by on his bike — had nice compliments about the park • great park — gets Tots of use • great multi -use park • connects to Elmer L. Anderson trail • dual face sign • irrigates newer soccer field • great ball field • miss playground, tennis courts • a pleasant surprise • graffiti on trash container • fabulous park • trails need a lot of work PARK EVALUATION RESULTS INGERSON PARK Recent Improvements Park sign was painted the summer of 2009. Basketball Court was reconstructed and resurfaced in 2010. Outdoor bathroom was added to the park. Future Improvements Scheduled for Park Playground mulch is scheduled to be added in 2012. Rankings 1. Variety of Park Amenities 3.3 avg 8 responses 2. Condition of Amenities 3.7 avg 7 responses 3. Park Upkeep 4.0 avg 9 responses 4. Trails N/A 0 responses 5. Adequate Resting 3.6 avg 8 responses Benches /Resting Spots 6. Park Signage 3.8 avg 8 responses 7. Natural Beauty 4.2 avg 9 responses 8. Overall Appearance 4.6 avg 7 responses OVERALL AVERAGE 3.9 avg Final Comments — Suggestions for Improvements • good use of limited potential of terrain • small but nice park • nice shelter • one of our favorites • great play structure • graffiti on shelter is roof • picnic table by Y2 court is in tough shape • the slope of land minimizes summer use • should use weed killer application • very nice basketball court • lots of clover • a few weeds in big toy mulch • amenities are okay for park size and use • park upkeep - parking lot? • need better trail access from neighborhood • like the winging bench • pleasant — lots of shade • only one main bench — high sitting height • has a biffy • nice landscaping in front of it • beautiful grassy hill • benches could be scattered • consider use for natural beauty by adding trees — but this would disrupt winter sledding • best park so far in southeast Arden Hills • nice snow sliding hills • no benches • park signage is okay • redo APD • convert southeast part of park to a "natural" area • we spend too much on mowing in an area with no foot traffic • not good access to park from neighborhood • has limited neighborhood access — really only approachable from Lexington Avenue — consider trail through park and connections to neighborhood to north and west of park PARK EVALUATION RESULTS JOHANNA MARSH Recent Improvements Park sign was installed in spring of 2009. Tennis court was resurfaced in summer of 2008 -- trees were removed all around tennis court. Future Improvements Scheduled for Park Rankings 1. Variety of Park Amenities 1.8 avg 6 responses 2. Condition of Amenities 2.7 avg 6 responses 3. Park Upkeep 2.9 avg 7 responses 4. Trails N/A 0 responses 5. Adequate Resting 3.7 avg 6 responses Benches /Resting Spots 6. Park Signage 3.4 avg 7 responses 7. Natural Beauty 4.1 avg 7 responses 8. Overall Appearance 3.6 avg 6 responses OVERALL AVERAGE 3.2 avg Final Comments — Suggestions for Improvements • a lot of overgrowth • It is what it is • court in poor condition • it has a tennis court • tree roots buckle tennis court • didn't even know it was there • tennis court in needy condition but agree with what you said regarding it's not a true public park • brush needs to be cut around perimeter, sticking thru fence onto court — court looks okay • nice new bench by tennis court • tennis court has a number of cracks — looks good but needs better base and resurface • new bench • didn't tour this last year • need landscaping by sign • it is good as a neighborhood tennis court and does not have any other potential other than improving court surface • park signage okay • small area • not much to it • PARK EVALUATION RESULTS LINDEY'S PARK Recent Improvements 4 park benches were added in 2009 as part of an Eagle Scout Project. Bocce Gold Course was removed in 2010 with the PMP project. Future Improvements Scheduled for Park Rankings 1. Variety of Park Amenities 3.3 avg 3 responses 2. Condition of Amenities 4.0 avg 3 responses 3. Park Upkeep 4.1 avg 7 responses 4. Trails N/A 5. Adequate Resting 4.0 avg 6 responses Benches /Resting Spots 6. Park Signage 4.0 avg 6 responses 7. Natural Beauty 4.1 avg 7 responses 8. Overall Appearance 4.3 avg 7 responses OVERALL AVERAGE 4.0 avg Final Comments — Suggestions for Improvements • garden needs work • beautiful pond area . nice rain gardens • nice neighborhood park . garden by sign and rain gardens look very good • crab apple trees very pretty in spring • nice tree placement . nice triangle garden • good park benches • nice open area • rain garden looks authentic • nice buffer for homeowners nearby • benches are great PARK EVALUATION RESULTS PERRY PARK Recent Improvements New picnic tables in 2010 and 2011. Caps for ball field fence tops installed in 2009. Park sign was repainted in 2009. Trail down to the Tony Schmidt Elmer L. Anderson Memorial Trail completed in 2010. Future Improvements Scheduled for Park Would like to add outfield and /or sideline fencing on Perry #3. It is not in budget or C I P at this time. Rankings 1. Variety of Park Amenities 4.4 avg 9 responses 2. Condition of Amenities 4.1 avg 9 responses 3. Park Upkeep 4.4 avg 9 responses 4. Trails 4.4 avg 9 responses 5. Adequate Resting 4.4 avg 8 responses Benches /Resting Spots 6. Park Signage 4.1 avg 9 responses 7. Natural Beauty 4.2 avg 9 responses 8. Overall Appearance 4.4 avg 9 responses OVERALL AVERAGE 4.3 avg Final Comments — Suggestions for Improvements • drainage very poor — probably needs cut out clay base • primarily basketball and softball — but something for everyone • ball fields drain poorly • special ball park — great picnic shelter • field problems — all else good handicap porta potties — super • outstanding new pavilion • excellent amenities • drainage /erosion issue at turn below ballfield • sign is hard to see from the road • impressive park • saw deer in field • add sideline fencing on Perry #3 • very nice shelter • outstanding natural beauty • fields all wet — poor elevation design • a great park to support basketball and skating /hockey • obvious problems with field drainage and drive over path between warming house and rinks • nice park • erosion problem by trail • very poor drainage in all ball fields • grading was never done properly when ball fields were designed • need mulch in playground area • many trail connections now • dual face sign • great views • many things to do PARK EVALUATION RESULTS ROYAL HILLS PARK Recent Improvements Park sign was painted in 2009. Bathroom enclosure built in 2011 — Eagle Scout Project. Playground mulch was replenished in 2010. Garden above retaining wall is being transitioned to wild area. Ball field benches replaced in 2011. Future Improvements Scheduled for Park Bench repair for bench above tennis court on hill. Added bench (2011) near play structure as part of the bench implementation program. Rankings 1. Variety of Park Amenities 4.1 avg 7 responses 2. Condition of Amenities 4.1 avg 8 responses 3. Park Upkeep 4.6 avg 7 responses . 4. Trails 3.5 avg 2 responses 5. Adequate Resting 4.0 avg 9 responses Benches/Resting Spots 6. Park Signage 4.3 avg 9 responses 7. Natural Beauty 4.0 avg 9 responses 8. Overall Appearance 4.2 avg 9 responses OVERALL AVERAGE 4.1 avg Final Comments — Suggestions for Improvements • garden by sign weedy (1 huge burdock) • needs mulch • just fine as neighborhood park • hate the new natural grass garden — loved the old flower garden • poison ivy • a very nice park • good — nice job by the Boy Scouts • plenty of sitting capacity • nice tennis courts • cute little park • very visible • great neighborhood park • could raise side fences on tennis court • tennis court and basketball court are nice • upkeep very nice • nice neighborhood area PARK EVALUATION RESULTS SAMPSON PARK Recent Improvements Park sign was painted in 2009. Future Improvements Scheduled for Park Basketball court will be reconstructed and resurfaced June, 2011. Playground mulch will be replenished in 2011 or 2012.6.4 +3.9 + / Rankings 1. Variety of Park Amenities 2.9 avg 8 responses 2. Condition of Amenities 3.1 avg 8 responses 3. Park Upkeep 3.9 avg 8 responses 4. Trails 3.8 avg 6 responses 5. Adequate Resting 3.8 avg 8 responses Benches /Resting Spots 6. Park Signage 3.0 avg 9 responses 7. Natural Beauty 3.4 avg 8 responses 8. Overall Appearance 3.9 avg 9 responses OVERALL AVERAGE 3.5 avg Final Comments — Suggestions for Improvements • for a small park well laid out • need new picnic table • needs mulch in play area • small but cute • old wood picnic table • move metal dead end street barrier from Freeway to Sampson • need to take out the clump of brush in northwest corner • park upkeep is okay • some amenities • basketball court • good neighborhood park • '/2 basketball court • resident commented about wintertime access to Elmer Anderson trail (remove snow for a path) • quaint, private, but connected to trail system and neighborhood for good access • resident stopped by to ask if path to Elmer L. Anderson trail can get plowed in winter • very nice trees • need landscaping around sign • very poor first impression of park • chain and stop sign look tacky — should put up a nice locked gate that cars can't go thru but walkers can get by • road pavement • could use another bench by play structure • remove barrier at basketball court/trail • tree varieties could be highlighted with signage • connects with Elmer L. Anderson trail • another "nice" neighborhood park • small trail in nice condition • nice trees • stop sign near basketball court looks goofy • cute little park PARK EVALUATION RESULTS VALENTINE PARK Recent Improvements Park sign was painted in 2009. Future Improvements Scheduled for Park City is in process to work with residents to design park improvements in 2011 or spring of 2012. Rankings 1. Variety of Park Amenities 2.2 avg 5 responses 2. Condition of Amenities 2.0 avg 7 responses 3. Park Upkeep 3.1 avg 7 responses 4. Trails N/A 0 responses 5. Adequate Resting 2.3 avg 6 responses Benches /Resting Spots 6. Park Signage 3.5 avg 6 responses 7. Natural Beauty 3.0 avg 6 responses 8. Overall Appearance 2.7 avg 7 responses OVERALL AVERAGE 2.7 avg Final Comments — Suggestions for Improvements • wet, wet, wet • enough amenities for size of park • parking lot is sad looking • crew does great in spite of the wet area • redo park • playground apparatus swings • sand all in poor condition • good as on a park — due to flooding difficult to maintain • a gem in progress • redo it • park signage okay • to be totally reconstructed • defer comments until major improvements are made • glad to have little garden by sign • great potential with trees and the lake view — will be lovely when redone • nice garden on opposite side of road — looks good • miss having a bench that swings • play structures due for care • understand pending improvements are being considered • obviously drainage biggest issue — what comes after that doesn't matter if we can't get it right PARK EVALUATION RESULTS ARDEN MANOR Recent Improvements Park sign painted in 2009. Playground mulch added in July of 2010. Future Improvements Scheduled for Park Basketball court resurface in progress.2.7 +6+ Rankings 1. Variety of Park Amenities 3.1 avg 8 responses 2. Condition of Amenities 3.7 avg 7 responses 3. Park Upkeep 3.5 avg 8 responses 4. Trails N/A 0 responses 5. Adequate Resting 2.3 avg 8 responses Benches /Resting Spots 6. Park Signage 2.7 avg 7 responses 7. Natural Beauty 3.0 avg 9 responses 8. Overall Appearance 3.0 avg 9 responses OVERALL AVERAGE 3.0 avg Final Comments — Suggestions for Improvements • very poor drainage • tennis court nice • basketball court is beautifully • graffiti in shelter • weeds in mulch problem needs to be solved • full basketball court looks very nice • too bad kids do the graffiti • repaint picnic tables and pavilion inside roof • tons of graffiti on concrete floor • weedy playground • picnic shelter vandalized • good neighborhood park • good service to community • no benches but picnic tables suffice • obviously a park for Arden Manor • nice cattails • great basketball court now • no benches now • closed in neighborhood park • benches in terrible shape • 3 bolts missing from roof support post • needs benches • the wetland and surrounding greenery is pretty • very nice except for the abuse of the picnic shelter area and tables • would it be useful to have a resident or a few be "park watchers" • Don Messerly is great to go around and help keep things clean - if a resident would do this maybe ownership of /or pride would kick in — just a thought • needs a sign • needs a few benches • too much vandalism • trash all over • needs a sign • need to get users to respect this area and treat it with care • park generally clean — a few plastic bottles around • graffiti on tables and shelter • very good considering • pond to be dredged • lots of graffiti • no sign PARK EVALUATION RESULTS ROYAL HILLS PARK Recent Improvements Park sign was painted in 2009. Bathroom enclosure built in 2011 — Eagle Scout Project. Playground mulch was replenished in 2010. Garden above retaining wall is being transitioned to wild area. Ball field benches replaced in 2011. Future Improvements Scheduled for Park Bench repair for bench above tennis court on hill. Added bench (2011) near play structure as part of the bench implementation program. Rankings 1. Variety of Park Amenities 4.1 avg 7 responses 2. Condition of Amenities 4.1 avg 8 responses 3. Park Upkeep 4.6 avg 7 responses 4. Trails 3.5 avg 2 responses 5. Adequate Resting 4.0 avg 9 responses Benches /Resting Spots 6. Park Signage 4.3 avg 9 responses 7. Natural Beauty 4.0 avg 9 responses 8. Overall Appearance 4.2 avg 9 responses OVERALL AVERAGE 4.1 avg Final Comments — Suggestions for Improvements • garden by sign weedy (1 huge burdock) • needs mulch • just fine as neighborhood park • hate the new natural grass garden — loved the old flower garden • poison ivy • a very nice park • good — nice job by the Boy Scouts • plenty of sitting capacity • nice tennis courts Agenda Item 4B: Newsletter Articles '-28\IRT HILLS MEMORANDUM DATE: September 20, 2011 TO: Parks Trails and Recreation Committee FROM: Michelle Olson, Parks and Recreation Manager 10 SUBJECT: Newsletter Articles Background At the May 17, 2011 PTRC meeting, the committee consensus was to provide regular articles for the City Newsletter. Since that time, three articles have been submitted for the July, August and September issues. Staff has included a schedule of the remaining 2011 newsletter schedule for the PTRC to review. The Committee may want to discuss how to proceed with scheduling newsletter writing assignments for the remaining months in 2011 and into 2012. Discussion Staff is looking for direction from the PTRC on how or if to assign the writing of newsletter articles to individual members for the remaining months in 2011 and into 2012. 09202011 City Newsletter Articles. doc Arden� Notes DRAFT 2011 Publication Calendar Article Deadline a 0 CO 0 Meeting Date LL February 14, 2011 January 25, 2011 January 14, 2011 Wednesday, February 23, 2011 March 22, 2011 Councilmember Holmes April 26, 2011 August 15, 2011 Councilmember Werner V- G G CD G C.) CV (NI (N CV CV N---- N--- LC) C6 i6 .,-- ,-- ,--- ,--- _c --c >, >, ' co cu co a. -5 2 co < -) la 2 (0 LL a) 12 : pus) E R-- co 1-- L_ a) f2 E .(1) E E 0 -5 -0 c < 0 — cu 2 0 0 2 September 12, 2011 August 23, 2011 August 12, 2011 4.4 En s.. 43 0) October 17, 2011 September 27, 2011 September 16, 2011 0 .c < = 0 = 0 0 En C s- L >11r C a, .0 Eti 4 O cO = -) - ) CO 0 0 r November 14, 2011 October 25, 2011 October 14, 2011 November December 12, 2011 November 22.2O11 November 11, 2011 E Ct Note on letters: :15 _c co .4- 0 (1) C ,:t -th' , 0 >, _o c) a) cu :E- ED o D 4-- c) -,.= c a) D Ca () (0 - — C CI c (I) 0 E- (5 . a) 0) SD c 0(0 0_ 0 0 al _C ca (i) 2 >< a) a) >, 0_ a) _c IP_ 2: E , ,0 . `-` E u) 7.--- P (1) o (Du) co 0 6 0- cr) o c 4:7. D n3 0 w al p En 0 0 C L: . CU _C(I) (a ...ca) .... ._ E ...Y -T- a) cu o0 n) ti) E cC 0 ›.... 0 (D 3 .c 0 6 -I) H 16 (>a) ) c a) - >, E a) (1) 0 CI Ct_ U) U) () a) (1) 1-....- T..= (D -- 0 (5 (0 0E 6 E, w a.) EP_ :21 Ha _)112 0 ( ' ° — IT) a) a) ._ :Ei c a) o to E -5 _ a, ii= 0) V. -E .1:3 cn S_D D a) ---7 E E u) .0 < alEcLiiT_E c (x) ?..._,-. ..c cn c,„ (1)- 0 4.. s_ s_ C 0 .(1)..-C4 ...al Lft- (f) c a) ED (1.) <in Si -.--.(0 .......a) 0 --C __I __I __I C i- Agenda Item SA: Floral Park No Parking Discussion EN HILLS MEMORANDUM DATE: September 20, 2011 TO: Parks Trails and Recreation Committee FROM: Michelle Olson, Parks and Recreation Manager 09 SUBJECT: Floral Park No Parking Discussion Background Earlier this summer, staff received a request from Rick Morphew, an Arden Hills resident who lives at 1514 Arden Vista Court to change the No Parking on Royal Lane from the north side of the road to the south side of the road. Mr. Morphew provided a letter stating his concerns and a drawing illustrating the sight lines on Royal Lane (Attachment A). He indicates that he is concerned for the safety of pedestrians walking from parked cars to Floral Park due to the curve of the road and limited visibility for vehicles. Staff researched the history of the No Parking at this park. Public Works staff indicated that it was their recollection that the No Parking was placed on the north side in order to prevent the hazard of children running down the hill and going between parked cars. After researching the park files, staff was able to locate correspondence between a neighbor and the City in 1994 that explains how the No Parking restriction began (Attachment B). A letter was written on May 19, 1994 by Sarah Rhude, who lived in the neighborhood at that time. The letter requested a reduction in organized baseball games and the addition of parking restrictions on Royal Drive and Floral Drive to alleviate safety concerns. Originally, parking was allowed on both sides of the road along Royal Drive. This resident stated in her letter that this caused safety issues for both pedestrians and vehicles due to the limited visibility on Royal Lane. Ms. Rhude met with the Parks and Recreation Director to discuss her concerns. The Director brought a recommendation to the May 27, 1994 City Council meeting for approval (Attachment C). The recommendation was to limit parking to only the south side of the road on Royal Lane and Floral Drive and posting No Parking restrictions along the north side of the road (park frontage). The reasoning for this choice was to keep the entrance of the park visible and also to keep pedestrians from walking into the road from between cars. The Council approved the recommendation on the consent calendar with no discussion. The No Parking restriction has been in place on the north side since that time. A cursory review of staff indicates no known problems with the current restrictions since they were implemented in 1994. One concern that has been noted by park staff has been that pedestrians and bicyclists 09202011 Floral No Parking Request Discussion. doc utilizing the park walk down the hill and steps to leave the park. If vehicles park on the north side of the road, pedestrians would walk between parked cars to leave the park, causing visibility issues. Mr. Morphew will be in attendance at tonight's meeting to discuss his concerns. Requested Action Staff is asking for the PTRC to review, analyze and provide a recommendation to the City Council regarding a request from a resident to change the No Parking restriction on Royal Lane (road in front of the entrance of the park) from the north side (park frontage) of the road to the south side of the road. 09202011 Floral No Parking Request Discussion. doc Attachment A: Letter from Rick Morphew —1514 Arden Vista Court Drawing of No Parking Area for Floral Park Michelle Olson Parks & Recreation Manager City of Arden Hills 1245 West Highway 96 Arden Hills, MN 55112 -7848 Re: Parking on Royal Lane by Floral Park Dear Michelle, Our family has lived in Arden Hills since 1987 at 1514 Arden Vista Court. We access our home using several routes, one of which is Hamline Avenue past Floral Park. Floral Park is well used for its baseball field, playground equipment and hiking trails. People who use Floral Park park their cars on Royal Lane in front of the Park. We have driven by the Park many times when there are twenty or more cars parked on Royal Lane. Parking is limited by signage and yellow curb to the side of Royal Lane across the street from the Park. As a result, people must cross the street to access the Park which is a safety issue that could easily be corrected. Vehicles that approach Floral Park from either Norma Avenue or West Floral Drive, when cars are parked on Royal Lane, have severally restricted sight lines, limiting their ability to see people /children crossing the street to access the Park. This is caused by the fact that Royal Lane curves from both directions and drivers cannot see around the corners. The solution is simple, inexpensive and intuitive... move parking to the Park side of Royal Lane. Attached to this letter is a drawing that illustrates the problem. By studying the drawing one can easily see the benefits of moving parking across the street. They are: • Increased safety for children and adults who park on Royal Lane and use Floral Park • Increased safety for automobiles that use Royal Lane • Additional space for parking due to longer curb line on the Park side of Royal Lane • A more user friendly Park in Arden Hills Please consider my request to move parking to the Park side of Royal Lane adjacent to Floral Park and restrict parking on the opposite side. Thank you. Resp ly, ick Morphe 1514 Arden Vista Court Arden Hills, MN 55112 (651) 636 -2241 Map Locating Floral Park and Royal Lane Maps Royal Ln, St Paul, MN 55112 Map locating Floral Park, Royal Lane and access to Royal Lane from W Floral Drive and Norma Avenue. FREE! Use Bing 411 to find movies, businesses fti more 800-BING-411 a r Mounds Page 1 of 1 Vadn Heigl imia 1!2010.,Nav Cofleen Ave - fa» 1,3-4 iore Dr Ln :11 indian_ Oiks Trail c,„ i 51 2010 Nav 9/9/2011 U) Z m J ELI CZ, amino LO f- 2 1 0 . 42i UU��� r � z, 0. IL J Q 0 M. CON z Zi _ G,vno of c� 40 Q O . . . .l a•aon+) . . _ (•73a•aow) a&no , W Z W N W('73 8Mn0 Oz, ) j , Q Attachment B: Letter from Sarah Rhude dated 5/19/94 y' (9LJ �y,AN te' May 19, 1994 • Cindy L. Severson Director ofParhs & Recreation City ofArden Hills s 1450 West Highway 96 Arden Hills, MN 55112-5794 Dear Cindy, Thank you for meeting with me at Floral park on Friday, May 13, 1994 to discuss my concerns regards parking during baseball games. I atn writing this letter to formally state my concerns to the city council. 1 will propose a two-tiered solution; 1 will west parking restrictions for this summer, as well as serest ways to decrease traffic and disruption to the neighborhood in future seasons. The problem has its basis in the fiict that Floral Park is intended to be strictly a neighborhood park There is no parking lot, nor is there any alternative to parking on the adjacent residential streets, Royal Lane and West Floral Drive. My fly has resided at 1467 Royal Lane, next to Floral Park, for over ten years so f am acutely aware of how the parking problem has escalated steadily to its present level. It has become a clear and present danger as well as great nuisance. . No other park in Arden Hills causes this level �' p of neighbor hood impact. For example, although Cummings Park has no parking lot, parking is banned on Wyncrest Court -- users must park in the Control Data lot. Royal Hills Park also has no parking lot but does have designated parking on Old Snellin& in an area separated from homes. Unfortunately, there are no similar alternatives for Floral Park. Therefore, f would like to propose a two- tiered solution; mediate changes in parking restrictions to alleviate the current dangerous situation ag well as alternative scheduling procedures (effective beginning in 1995) to alleviate the disruption to the area residents. A description ofthe problem will clarit the proposed solutions. As stated, there are Iwo concerns: the safety factor and the nuisance factor. The safety factor needs to be addressed immediately, as the situation is dangerous for walkers, those entering and leaving the part (especially children), bicyclists, as well as those driving cars. Royal Lane has two curves which severely limit visibility in both directions. The street was not designed for four car widths; in area where cars are parked on both sides ofthe street it is difficult for cars to pass in opposite directions and hazardous as they approach the curve. It is an accident waiting to happen! It is also extremely serous for anyone Ong or bikin& 2 I do not feel it is safe for my children to ride their bikes on their own street for at least four evenings of the week! Frequently, people park along the yellow -lined no parking zone, further exacerbating the problem. For instance, or the evening ofMay 18, 1994, four cars Were ills #. ly parked along the yellow line on the north Bide of Royal Lane, making the curve particularly hazakdous. During a baseball game, it would be difficult,, if not hnpossible, for an emergency vehicle or fire truck to get around the curve into the neighborhood. It is imperative that changes be made! I propose that parking be allowed on only one side of the street, on both Royal Lane and West Floral Drive, to allow for improved visibility and clear passage. Parking would be allowed only on the south side of Royal Lane, keeping the park entrance open. This would prevent a child darting out from between parked cars as well as lessen. the impact on the homes on the block (the south side has a long stretch without residences). Parking would be banned on the north side of Royal Lane. Conversely, parking would be allowed only on the north side ofWest Floral Drive (which has a stretch of open space along the park). Parking would be banned on the south side ofWest Floral Drive. Letters should be sent to coaches ofLittle League teams infonning them of these pealcing changes. Additionally, NO PARKING THIS SIDE OF THE STREET signs should be posted in the affected areas. These charges should be implemented as soon as possible to prevent a serious accident. These proposed changes will definitely move the situation. However, making scheduling cis (beginning in 1995) will more electively a vent safety problems as well as decrease disruption to the neighborhood residents. As stated earlier, Floral Park is not designed, nor is it equipped to handle the present volume oftraffic. Currently, we have cars parked in front of our home minimally four titres a week (often six, due to . ractices p ) A is difficult to mow our lawn, and as people walk on our lawn getting in and out of their cars, they frequently leave trash behind. My children cannot play in our front yard without many strangers walking trough. As stated before, cannot think of another neighborhood that suffers this much negative impact 1 believe that the Floral Park neighborhood should not have to either! The proposed parking changes will alleviate the nuisance problem somewhat However, I propose that, beginning in 1 995, Floral Park be designated a practice park. Five or six cars parking on the street during practices would be a vast improvement. 1 realize that there is a ball Meld shortage, but Floral Park should be given the lightest possible schedule of games, only alter other fields are exhausted. For example, on the evening ofMay 5, 1994, one ofile fields at Island Lake was open while Floral had a scheduled game, and on the evening ofMay 12, 1994, both fields at Island Lake were open while Floral had a scheduled game. Alternatively, Fall fields are saturated, Floral could be designated for T -ball, which has a shorter season. oral's field does not drain well after rya;, TTball games would not need to be rescheduled as is often a problem for Little League games scheduled at Floral. Even with the ball field shortage, believe that some combination of these proposals could be implemented. 3 In conclusion, the dangerous situation surrounding Floral Park should be alleviated by immediately restricting park* to the south side ofRoyal Lane (north side parking banned), and the- north side ofWest Floral Drive (south side parking banned). The traffic and disruption to the neighborhood residents should be alleviated, beginning in 1995, by designating Floral Park for the lighted possible usage. Thank you twin, Cindy, for your efficient and courteous handling ofthis problem. appreciate your promptly bringing this to the council's attention. Sincerely, ---,A4Aa4L:"14/L1(A8LL-, Sara M. nude Attachment C: Council Memo dated 5/27/94 ern. OF .ARDEN KELLS MEMORANDUM STBJECT: May 27, 1994 Dorothy Person., City Administrator Cindy Severtsaa, Parks and Recreation Director Letter from a resident regarding parking issues at Floral Pak 1 received a call from a resident, Sarah Rhude, regarding parking around Floral Park. I met with this individual on-site in an attempt to care up with alternatives/solutions. The letter attached suggests extending the "no parking areas;" which after meeting, we both agreed would help. Sarah Rhude and her family live in the first house adjoining Floral Park. Her concern is that the park is used on a regular basis by Little Lake Little League. Floral Park does not have a parking lot. Cbnsequently, cars park along both sides of the street throughout the neighborhood. This creates somewhat of a safety hazard. Sarah Rhude refers to Floral Park as a neighborhood park, which it is. However, all of the parks in Arden. Hills are techni ly neighborhood parks. Actually, Floral Park is tied with Cunnings k for the largest park acreage. Since the city does not have a carmunity park, the neighborhood parks are used for a number of city recreation programs as well as youth association games and practices. Floral Park is predominantly used as a Little Lakes Little League field. As an organization, Little Lakes has contributed money to install sideline fencing at Floral Park in an attempt to make the playing field safer. There are 220 kids playing little league baseball from Arden Rills in 1994. All youth associations receive fields according to the number of participants from Arden Hills. As you are aware, there are always an insufficient number of fields in Arden Hilis to -accomodate -all parties. The parks Little Lakes can use are limited by what fields are needed by the City's recreational adult and youth leagues and Moundsviewr s Girls Fastpitch Association, Given the current demand on our softball fields, if Little Lakes didn't use Floral Park, some other activity would be planned there. It is not possible to use Floral Park entirely as a practice facility. Floral Park Parking Page 2 05/27/94 As expressed in the letter by Sarah Rhude, there are some valid safety concerns with parking in the neighborhood. 1 met with Sarah, and believe the safety concerns can be alleviated by designating parking on one side of the street only along park property. I recommend that the entire curb on the east side of Royal lane be painted yellow and no parking signs be posted and enforced. This would extend the current no parking to cover the entire road frontage of the park. Also, no parking signs could be posted along the north side of Floral Drive. Thus , parking would be allowed on only 1 side of the street. This would provide a safer environment for children entering and leaving the park. As it is now, parking is allowed on both sides. It is very difficult for cars to see children as they run through the parked cars. The Ramsey County Sheriff is Department should be made aware of this parking change and encouraged to enforce it. Letters can be sent to the Little Lakes Little League Association to notify parents and coaches of the parking restrictions as well as asking them to not walk across residents lawns. In future years, there is a possibility of moving little league one or tvx) nights a week to another field, however, another activity similar in nature would replace them on those evenings. Unfortunately, there are not enough baseball/softball fields in Arden Hills to allow that neighborhood parks be left unoccupied or as practice fields only. As for the reference Ms. Rhude makes to Island Lake q School fields being open, Shoreview programs that facility. I contacted them to inquire about usage and was informed that little league uses the east field and the Shoreview recreation programs use the west field. The Shoreview recreation softball program begins in June. Both fields will be in use every evening June through August. Staff recommends that the above referenced no parking changes be made and enforced in an attempt to alleviate the safety concerns. Little . Lakes should be notified of these parking changes and encouraged to carpool. CS : to Agenda Item 5B: Park Buckthorn Removal Discussion EN HILLS MEMORANDUM DATE: September 20, 2011 TO: Parks Trails and Recreation Committee FROM: Michelle Olson, Parks and Recreation Manager '1' l SUBJECT: Buckthorn Removal Day Background For the past twelve years, the PTRC has sponsored an annual fall Buckthorn Removal Day. Traditionally, the committee chooses one park and spends 3-4 hours on a Saturday in October. Discussion Staff is looking for direction from the PTRC on whether to hold a Buckthorn Removal Day this fall. If the committee is interested, staff would like input on the date and location of the event. 09202011 Park Buckthorn project. doc Other Attachments: Ramsey County Parks and Recreation Committee Agenda — 9/7/2011 Ramsey County Parks and Recreation Committee Minutes — 6/8/2011 1) CALL TO ORDER 2) APPROVAL OF AGENDA 3) APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF JUNE 8, 2011 4) RECOMMENDATION REGARDING THE PROPOSED 2012 -2013 OPERATING BUDGET 5) RECOMMENDATION REGARDING THE AMENDED REGIONAL PARK CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM FOR 2011; 2012 -2013; 2014 -2015; 2016 -2017 6) RICE CREEK NORTH REGIONAL TRAIL GRANT APPLICATION 7) REVIEW OF PRELIMINARY TRAIL ALIGNMENTS WITHIN KELLER REGIONAL PARK 8) DIRECTOR'S REPORT 9) REPORT FROM CHAIR AND OTHER COMMISSION MEMBERS 10) ADJOURNMENT .............................. 1 The regular meeting of the Ramsey County Parks and Recreation Commission was called to order by Chair Pederson at 6:00 p.m., at Ramsey County Parks and Recreation Department, 2015 North Van Dyke Street, Maplewood, Minnesota. Members Present: Members Absent: Staff Present: Jack Ditmore, Deb Falkowski, Phil Jenni, Gale Pederson, Candy Petersen, Bryan Shirley, Richard Straumann Brian Tempas Greg Mack, Scott Yonke, Jody Yungers, Mehmet Berker APPROVAL OF AGENDA Ms. Petersen moved, seconded by Mr. Straumann, that the agenda of the Parks and Recreation Commission be approved as mailed. Motion carried. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Chair Pederson asked for a motion to approve the minutes of April 13, 2011. Mr. Straumann moved, seconded by Mr. Ditmore, that the minutes of the April 13, 2011 Parks and Recreation Commission meeting be approved as mailed. Motion carried,. REDEVELOPMENT PLAN FOR TURTLE LAKE COUNTY PARK The 2010 -2011 Ramsey County Capital Improvement Programs include funding for redevelopment of Turtle Lake County Park. Concept plans for redevelopment of the park were previously reviewed by the Parks and Recreation Commission. Mr. Yonke presented an overview of the redevelopment plan including the following: • • • • • • Refinement of parking lots Stormwater management elements Proposed trail Picnic shelter location and anticipated size Play area enhancements including introduction of natural features Delineation of the beach area using limestone seatwall Restroom /changing area 1 It is anticipated that the picnic shelter and restroom will be prefabricated structures with some architectural enhancements. The plan illustrates some subtle theming in the building layout and gathering areas that reflect a turtle shell. It is anticipated that construction of the project will begin in fall 2011. The Commission discussed various elements of the proposed redevelopment plan. Following that discussion, Mr. Jenni moved, seconded by Ms. Falkowski, that the Commission recommend approval of the redevelopment plan for Turtle Lake County Park. Motion carried. RAMSEY COUNTY MAPPING PORTAL Jody Yungers provided background on the electronic mapping portal system that has been prepared by Ramsey County in cooperation with the municipalities under a State Health Improvement Program (SHIP) grant administered by Active Living Ramsey Communities. The mapping portal is a GIS -based system that will enable users to locate recreational areas and facilities throughout the County. Mehmet Berker provided a demonstration of the system. He emphasized the navigational aspects and tools that were available for users. Throughout the demonstration, Commission members asked questions of system capability and saw firsthand how the system functions. UPDATE ON THE WAYFINDING SYSTEM At the April 13, 2011 meeting of the Parks and Recreation Commission, staff presented an overview of the draft Wayfinding Plan for the parks and recreation system. Based on input from the Commission, the draft system was refined and bids were solicited for fabrication of wayfinding signs for the Highway 96 Regional Trail, Vadnais -Snail Lakes Regional Park and Island Lake County Park. Mr. Yonke described the changes and the materials that are being used for various types of signs within the system. He noted that the number of sign locations has been reduced to minimize redundancy while maintaining an appropriate level of signing that will enable users to navigate through the system. Jody Yungers presented a sample of the map that will be used for the signs to be located within the three pilot locations. She solicited input from the Commission on various aspects of the proposed signs. It is anticipated that future funding for the Wayfinding Plan for the regional parks and trails will be provided through a Legacy Grant. COMMISSION SUMMER MEETING SCHEDULE /PARK TOUR Commission members indicated support for a park tour during its regular August 10, 2011 meeting. By consensus, the Commission members agreed that the July meeting could be cancelled unless staff requires a meeting in order to advance specific plans. DIRECTOR'S REPORT • Mr. Mack reminded the Commission of the Grand Opening events for the new Tamarack Nature Center Nature Play Area and Discovery Garden scheduled for Saturday, June 11, 2011. 2 • The Minnesota Department of Transportation has assembled a group of municipal, county and Metropolitan Council staff to begin to analyze non - motorized crossings of the 1 -694 corridor between 35 -W and 35 -E. An organizational meeting was held on June 6, 2011. Participants at the meeting agreed that representatives from Active Living Ramsey Communities, Friends of St. Paul and Ramsey County Parks and Trails, Transit for Livable Communities and perhaps the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources should be invited to participate in the study. • The Keller Golf Course Redevelopment project is proceeding into the design phase. The 2011 Capital Improvement Program included funding for architects and engineers to refine plans for redevelopment of the golf course, clubhouse and pro shop. Funding for the construction is planned for 2012. If funding is appropriated, construction would begin around October 1, 2012 and continue throughout 2013, with reopening of the golf course in the spring of 2014. ADJOURNMENT Upon appropriate motion, the meeting was adjourned at 8:00 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Gregory A. Mack 3