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Home My WebLink About10-06-2001 PTRC Special Worksession (2) --A EN HILLS AGENDA PARKS, TRAILS, & RECREATION COMMITTEE SPECIAL PARK COMP PLAN WORKSESSION SATURDAY, OCTOBER 6, 2001 ** 9:00 A.M. — 12 NOON ** ARDEN HILLS CITY HALL 4364 WEST ROUND LAKE ROAD 1. The Vision for the Community 2. Review of the Draft (75% completed) 3. Individual Park Review 4. Individual Trail Review 5. Prioritization (if time available) 6. Adjourn ** Please call Tom: (651) 634-5133 or Jim: (651) 628-9406 if you are unable to attend this meeting** Arden Hills Park, Recreation and Trail Commission Workshop Session Saturday, October, 6, 2001 9AM—Noon Arden Hills City Hall—City Council Chambers Note: Please read the attached draft review copy of the Arden Hills Park, Trail and Open Space Plan prior to the Oct. 6th meeting. Redline any changes or additions on your plan copy and bring your notated copy to the meeting. Draft Agenda 1. General discussion of draft plan content and format 2. Review of plan maps (handout item at meeting) 3. Prepare plan vision statement 4. Determine plan priorities 5. Other items 6. Hand in redlined/notated plan copies and maps 7. Set next meeting date 8. Adjourn • • Arden Hills Park, Trail and Open Space Plan 750 tent Draft 10-1-01 tAo��"MA" Staff Review Copy C VE 'Not U.S.Army Reserve Center JZ v Highway 96 � � c w > �° a' ¢ Cummings Park 3 Round °� E Lake = Royal Wyncrest City Hills Floral Court Hall Park Park v a • o 5. c 694 d'� 1 W.Floral 'o Drive !a� o County Rd.F P T 35wVII h Sehoolw Ra Valentine High Lake 694 Valentine Park County Rd.E2 aP p Valentine E N Hills = ¢ Perry School ° Park `- 3 z Arden Arden Oaks Park Oaks Dr, Lindy's Triangle County Rd.E awe Johanna Blvd. u, Freeway Park Harriet Ave. v Sampson Park c > rn ¢ v Lake E Lane lake Johanna = Crepeau Nature Preserve Ingerson Park Hazelnut Park Lake Josephine • Title credits page a e PTRC CC Staff Consultants Contact information For further information about this plan contact: Arden Hills Parks and Recreation • Arden Hills Park, Trail and Open Space Plan DRAFT October 1, 2001 Page 1 Plan Summary — The Arden Hills Park Trail and Open Space Plan is a guide to the future use, improvement and expansion of the Arden Hills recreation system. Parks, trails and open space are essential components of community quality of life and are highly valued by city residents. This plan is intended to act as a guide to decision-making regarding recreation facilities. Key elements and recommendations are: 1. Trail Improvement and Connections Arden Hills is divided by many major roads, highways and railroads. These transportation corridors provide excellent regional access and mobility, but they separate neighborhoods and separate people from parks. Trails connection across, over or under the major highways and railroads are needed to tie the city together, create a true system of parks and trails and to enhance the feeling of community. Residents also want trail improvements to existing trails, the addition of new trail segments and internal loop trails within parks. A variety of trail functions and surfaces are desired. The trails master plan illustrates the city's vision for a comprehensive trail network. Building this network requires assistance from other agencies (such as MNDOT and Ramsey County) and the commitment from the city to improve and create trails on an annual basis. 2. Park Improvements Overall, residents are satisfied with Arden Hills parks. However, improvements are desired which will improve function and usability of existing parks. These improvements range from adding a bench and shade trees near a children's play area to a reconfiguration of a park access road, parking lot and shelter building to increase safety and assure long term use of the park land. A systematic long-term approach to these improvements is proposed. • 3. Open Space and Park Acquisition Arden Hills Park, Trail and Open Space Plan DRAFT October 1, 2001 Page 2 • In general, the existing developed portion of Arden Hills is well served by parks. There key acquisitions needed to improve function and safety (parking and driveway changes at Perry Park) and to assure long-term use (such as access and parking for Cummings and Hazelnut Parks). Use of major portions of the TCAAP lands for recreation and open space is important as TCAAP transitions from the former munitions plant use to a mixed-use development area. Dedication of parks, open space and trails in accordance with the TCAAP Plan will assure an adequate supply of recreation and open space for new residents and employees and enhanced recreation opportunities for existing Arden Hills residents. Park land acquisitions are discussed further on page_. 4. Funding The Park, Trail and Open Space Plan establishes a need for approximately $ million in park and trail improvements and acquisition over the next 20 years. A long-term commitment of funding and personnel is needed to achieve the plans vision. A combination of annual city capital improvement funds, Federal and State grants, cooperative funding of State and County trails, private sector support and park and trail dedication from new development and additional set asides of open space land at TCAAP are needed, along with continued community and political support for park and recreation. A draft funding plan is attached on page_. • Arden Hills Park, Trail and Open Space Plan DRAFT October 1, 2001 Page 3 Mission and Vision - Department Mission Statement - The Arden Hills Park and Recreation Department is dedicated to serving the people of Arden Hills by providing a comprehensive, well maintained system of parks, trails and open spaces and a balanced program of affordable recreation activities. Plan Vision Statement - TBD by PTRC and staff Arden Hills Park, Trail and Open Space Plan DRAFT October 1, 2001 Page 4 • Table of Contents - Arden Hills Park, Trail and Open Space Plan DRAFT October 1, 2001 Page 5 • Introduction - The intent of this park, trail and open space plan is to act as a guide to park, trail and open space decision-making and improvements. The Plan is designed to address recreation needs between 2001 and 2020. The city recognizes that demographic, recreation and environmental trends will change over the next twenty years and those changes will affect park, trail and open space needs. However, the Plan will help set the framework for funding, operations and improvements and will increase efficiency by establishing a long-term vision and priorities. The plan includes a park and trail system map, a review of recommendations, renovation recommendations for existing parks, land and easement acquisition recommendations and a funding strategy. • Arden Hills Park, Trail and Open Space Plan DRAFT October 1, 2001 Page 6 Figure A- City Location Ma • Arden Hills Park, Trail and Open Space Plan DRAFT October 1, 2001 Page 7 i ure B - Existing Park and Trail Ma • Arden Hills Park, Trail and Open Space Plan DRAFT October 1, 2001 Page 8 • Planning Process Summary - The City of Arden Hills wanted the Park, Trail and Open Space Plan to accurately reflect community desires and needs. A public opinion survey was conducted and a series of public open house meeting and Park, Trail and Recreation Commission meetings and workshop sessions were held to gather input and to prepare the Plan. Public Opinion Survey In February 2001 a detailed public opinion survey was sent to each Arden Hills household. Approximately 15% of the households completed the survey. The survey results are summarized on page_ and a full copy of the survey and responses is contained in Appendix A. Open House Meetings: Four public open house meetings were held in August 2001 to gather information about city-wide and neighborhood park, trail and open space needs. The meetings were held in four different location throughout the city. A summary of the meeting results is included in • Appendix B. A community open house was held in , 2001 to review the draft plan and recommendations. Commission Meetings and Work Sessions: The Arden Hills Parks Trails and Recreation Commission or PTRC oversaw preparation of the plan and provided detailed guidance and input into the process working with the consulting planners, city staff and the community. Review of Existing Plans and Coordination with Other Jurisdictions: A number of existing plans were reviewed to help prepare this plan. The Arden Hills Comprehensive Plan, the TCAAP (Twin City Army Ammunition Plant) Plan, Ramsey County Parks and Trails plans, year 2000 Census data, adjacent community parks and trail plans, and the Arden Hills Gateways plan were all helpful resources. Site Analysis and Staff Input: City staff and the planning consultants visited each park and many trail corridors to map and document existing conditions and to plan for future improvements. City park management, programming, maintenance, legal and finance staff all participated in the plan preparation or review. Arden Hills Park, Trail and Open Space Plan DRAFT October 1, 2001 Page 9 It is hoped that the depth of participation in the planning process will pay dividends by creating ownership in the plan and political support for the resource allocations needed to implement the plan recommendations. Arden Hills Park, Trail and Open Space Plan DRAFT October 1, 2001 Page 10 Demographic and Recreational Trends - Demographics— The City of Arden Hills is a mature largely developed community. It's residents, on average are: • Older than the average Minnesotan and Twin Cities area residents. • There are fewer children and more senior citizens. • There are a higher proportion of"baby boomers". • There is more owner occupied and less rental housing. • There is a high proportion of two wage earner households. • The City is more affluent than most. Arden Hills Minnesota Median age (yrs.) 36.2 35.4 Under 18 yrs old 20.0% 26.2% 65 yrs and over 13.9% 12.1% 45-59 yrs old 21.7% 18.1% Housing Own/Rent 88%/12% 75%/25% Implications: Over the next 10-20 years a significant proportion of Arden Hills residents will retire. Some will move out of the community, some may move to a smaller home and some will stay in their current home. This probably means some degree of change in neighborhood and community demographics. The higher median home values in Arden Hills may result in a higher proportion of established families and fewer first time homebuyers. Some new residents are likely to be younger and have more children than existing residents. The City should continue to monitor changes and to work with the school district to track demographic and student population changes. If the change is significant the city can restructure recreation programs and may need to re- evaluate facility supply. Discretionary time is likely to remain at a premium. Many senior citizens are active park and trail users. Recreation Trends— Recreation interests and participation are influenced by many factors. Age, access to facilities, amount of leisure time, interest in the environment, new recreation technology, and . social trends all influence recreation participation. In general people are looking for quality recreation close to home, but Arden Hills Park, Trail and Open Space Plan DRAFT October 1, 2001 Page 11 are willing to travel to obtain better quality or more specialized activities. Current trends—The following recreation trends have been observed in the Twin Cities over the last ten years: - Trail use has boomed (walking running, biking and skating). -Non-contact recreation activities are growing. - Interest in arts and natural areas is growing. - Most team sports participation has plateaued or in some cases declined. - More youth are specializing in one sport and training year- round. - Golf has increased in popularity. - Women's sports have increased. - Off-leash dog parks are popular. Implications and Future Trends - The following are likely trends based on Arden Hills demographics and the public opinion survey: 1) Trail use will remain strong and interest in trail expansion will continue. (Trails expansion and connections) 2) Individual activities will continue to be more popular than team or group activities. (multi-use trails, and open space) 3) Interest in natural resources and open space will remain strong. (TCAAP area and other resource areas) 4) Recreation facility development and operation partnerships between government agencies, schools, organizations and corporations will be more frequent. (Local partnerships) 5) Demand for youth activities and facilities may increase. (Retain park space and flexibility to meet future needs) Arden Hills Park, Trail and Open Space Plan DRAFT October 1, 2001 Page 12 • Public Input Summary — P Y Arden Hills Parks, Recreation and Open Space Public Opinion Survey Summary Introduction In February 2001 the City of Arden Hills, Minnesota conducted a public opinion survey of residents. The survey was designed to determine resident's attitudes about park, recreation and open space issues and to help guide preparation of a park, trail and open space plan for the city. The written survey was sent to 3,897 households and businesses in the city. A total of 593 completed surveys were returned for a response rate of 15%. This is a higher than normal response rate for a mail-back survey and indicates a high level of interest in city parks, trails and open spaces. This high response gives the survey results a relatively high degree of accuracy. The margin of error of the survey is plus or minus 4%. A copy of the survey is attached. The following is a summary of the findings, implications for the park and trail plan and the results for each question. Survey Findings l. Arden Hills residents are passionate about parks, trails and open space. 2. They are frequent users of the parks and trails. 3. They are satisfied with the existing parks, trails, maintenance and programs. The overall satisfaction level is 70% to 80%. 4. They want more TRAILS! 5. They also want existing parks to be renovated, passive parks areas to be improved and more land acquired for passive parks and natural areas. 6. There is interest in an indoor recreation facility. • 7. There is some support for fee increases and tax increases for park purposes. Arden Hills Park, Trail and Open Space Plan DRAFT October 1, 2001 Page 13 • 8. There is very little difference in attitudes among different geographic areas of the city. Recommendations based on the survey results - 1. The Arden Hills trail plan identifies needed trail connections, pedestrianibike bridges and new trail opportunities. 2. Loop trails are proposed in many existing parks. . 3. Park renovation and revitalization recommendations for existing parks are summarized starting on page_and shown on maps in Appendix C. 4. Significant open space and trails are planned for the TCAP area. 5. Partnerships to acquire land/easements and construct recreation improvements are a key to long-term success. . 6. Existing natural areas such as Crepeau Nature Center should be enhanced. 7. Given the proximity to existing recreation centers and the population base, the costs of an indoor recreation facility are likely to outweigh the benefits. 8. A variety of funding sources are needed for desired park, recreation and open space improvements. Arden Hills Park, Trail and Open Space Plan DRAFT October 1, 2001 Page 14 • Goals and Key Issues - Park, Trail and Open Space Plan Goals: 1. Complete trail connections and expand trail use opportunities. 2. Revitalize underutilized parks. 3. Advocate for dedication of public lands in TCAAP. 4. Ensure permanent access and parking for major parks with no access and parking easements. 5. Enhance natural areas and opportunities for passive uses. 6. Secure funding to ensure that the vision is achievable. 7. Enhance partnerships with businesses, institutions and agencies. 8. Increase visibility and access to parks and trails. 9. Continue to evaluate and respond to changing demographic and recreation needs. • Arden Hills Park, Trail and Open Space Plan DRAFT October 1, 2001 Page 15 Recommendations — Grade Separated Trail Connections— Constructing grade separated trail crossings of major roads and railroads is one of the most important actions the City can take to improve the trail network, enhance access to parks and tie the community together. Federal T-21 grants are available for many of these trail crossing improvements. The following are priority trail crossings: County Road E over Highway 51/14amline Ave. —The existing bridge is very narrow and unsafe for pedestrians or bicyclists. This location is a key connection between the east and west portions of the city. The City should work with Ramsey County and MnDOT to either expand the bridge width to create adequate pedestrian/bike crossings or build a freestanding bike/walk bridge next to the vehicle bridge. Highway 96 - Trail underpasses should be installed at selected locations between Highway 10 and Lexington Avenue, when Highway 96 is rebuilt. These grade-separated connections will provide access to City Hall and the TCAAP area. A trail crossing of Highway 10 should also be incorporated into the Highway 96/10 intersection, when it is rebuilt. Highway 10—Two grade-separated trail crossings are proposed. One,just south of Royal Hills Park and another within TCAAP, north of Highway 96. I-35W—Convert the existing railroad bridge located just north of I-694 to a pedestrian/bike trail crossing. This trail would connect the Round Lake area to the City of New Brighton trails. A second trail bridge is proposed to be located north of Highway 96 to connect the TCAAP area with Long Lake Regional Park and New Brighton. Mpls. St. Paul& Sault St. Marie Railroad—Ramsey County proposes to construct a north- south trail crossing under the railroad tracks between the south section of Tony Schmidt Park and Charles Perry Park/north section of Tony Schmidt Park. This north-south trail link is very important as Arden Hills Park, Trail and Open Space Plan DRAFT October 1, 2001 Page 16 the railroad acts a significant barrier between neighborhoods and park use. Trail Connections— Additional trails are needed to provide a comprehensive network of walk/bike ways and to connect the community together. These trails will function for recreation and as a non-motorized transportation alternative. A. Snelling/Highway 10 corridor from the Arden Hills/Roseville border to Highway 96. B. County Road E between Snelling and Hamline Avenues. C. County Road E between Lake Johanna Blvd. and Sampson/Hazelnut trail corridor. D. Cleveland Avenue south of the Sampson/Hazelnut trail corridor to the Roseville border. • E. Along County Road F from Old Highway 10 to Mounds View High School. F. South of Round Lake between I-35W and Old Highway 10. G. County Road F between Hamline and Lexington Avenues. H. Along Highway 96 from I-35W to Lexington Avenue. I. Within Tony Schmidt Park. J. Within Bethel and Northwestern Colleges. K. Within TCAAP and along Rice Creek. Park and Trail Identification- None of the trails in the City have names. Individual trails within the City should be given names and mile markers to help users find their way and assist with directions. This may . also help the City with maintenance and response to emergency situations. Arden Hills Park, Trail and Open Space Plan DRAFT October 1, 2001 Page 17 New park signage is also needed. Existing parks signs are too small or non-existent. A common sign design should be developed and consistent park and trail identification signs should be placed in the parks and along trail corridors. A park and trail system map was developed as part of the planning process. This map should be reproduced on weather resistant materials (i.e. ) and displayed in the City parks and at major trails entrances. An overall park and trail map will help residents find parks and trails and connect neighborhoods. Many residents are unaware of the existing park and trails in Arden Hills. This map could also be copied as a handout guide for interested citizens. Park Renovation— The City of Arden Hills should continue to upgrade and renovate existing parks based upon a year capitol improvement plan and in an effort to meet changing . demographics, public safety and the desires of the community. Maps indicating individual park improvement recommendations have been prepared based upon input received from the community through four public meetings, from service organizations and from the PTRC. The individual park maps are attached as Appendix_. The recommendations are intended to improve public safety, aesthetics, function and efficiency of individual parks. Future park improvements should be based upon these recommendations and funding supply. The individual park renovation recommendations are summarized below. List park name and summarize revitalization recommendations. Park and Open Space Acquisitions - To improve the function of existing parks and to provide better service to certain neighborhoods, park and openspace acquisitions have been recommended for two parks and parking easements or acquisition is recommended for two other parks. Dedication of park, trail and open space on Arden Hills Park, Trail and Open Space Plan DRAFT October 1, 2001 Page 18 • TCAAP is recommended in accordance with the City Comprehensive Plan. Charles Perry Park- The residential property adjacent to Charles Perry should be acquired to minimize the potential conflict caused by reflected light, noise and trespassing while providing an opportunity to expand the recreational offerings in the park and to provide better park access. Round Lake Park - The open land west of Round Lake Park should be acquired to provide adequate space for community soccer fields. The amount of property to acquire should be determined by the number and size of the fields needed. This land should be obtained by park dedication and acquisition as possible. Hazelnut Park - Parking for Hazelnut Park currently occurs on Church property. The City has no agreement with the Church for continued use of that parking area. The church is contemplating expansion. The City should either enter into a long term lease and shared use agreement for parking or attempt to acquire land from the church for park parking and potentially lease back use of that parking for peak church parking needs. The parking situation should be addressed prior to or as part of the church's overall site development plan. Cummings Park- Parking for Cummings Park currently occurs on Fair Issac's company parking lot. The city does not have a long-term agreement for continued use of that parking. A long-term use agreement should be obtained or the city should acquire other adjoining land to provide parking for Cummings Park. TCAAP—Describe acquisition recommendations. Finance — Funding for the recommended improvement must come form a variety of sources, but the City of Arden Hills must take and aggressive and pro-active approach to park and trail improvement. Approximately $_million in city funds are • needed over the next 20 years. In addition to city funds the following potential sources of funding are needed to achieve Arden Hills Park, Trail and Open Space Plan DRAFT October 1, 2001 Page 19 . the vision established by the community and reflect in this plan: List funding sources and potential partners City Capital Funding— Appendix D contains a summary of park, trail and open space recommendations and their estimated cost. The following is a recommended five year Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) for park, trail and open space improvement in 2002-2006. Insert S year CIP Grants— List grant opportunities Partnerships—Within the City of Arden Hills, there are great opportunities for public private partnerships for shared use of parkland and private or corporate properties or partnerships with Bethel and Northwestern Colleges. In particular, it may be possible to improve upon the relationship between MSI Insurance and Crepeau Park to share parking and signage and to expand the facilities for both. Similar opportunities may exist with other large corporations such as ( company). Similarly, partnerships with Bethel and Northwestern College should be made or improved to provide community use of trails and athletic facilities. Other partnerships include working with the Rice Creek Watershed District, Ramsey County and the U.S. Army to complete missing sections of the Rice Creek Park and Trails and to hasten the release of TCAAP land. Furthermore, the City, MnDOT and Ramsey County should coordinate efforts to improve trails along County and State roads and within County Parks to better respond to the community's desires. Arden Hills Park, Trail and Open Space Plan DRAFT October 1, 2001 Page 20 • Park and Recreation Facility Recommendations — Park System— Park and Trail Ma —Issues and Opportunitie Add text description of plan. Indoor Facilities— Although the was some interest in having indoor recreational facilities, community input determined that the facilities in surrounding communities and those provided by the Mounds View School District and Bethel and Northwestern Colleges were adequate and within the community there was little support for spending tax dollars for a separate facility. Shoreview's community center and indoor swimming pool is located less that 3/4 mile to the east of Arden Hills and New Brighton's Community Center (gyms, exercise area and indoor children's play area) is located 1/3`d mile to the west of Arden Hills. Individual Park Recommendations- Individual site plans were prepared identifying physical park changes. Additional recommendations are as follows: Arden Manor Arden Oaks Brighton Way Chatham Crepeau Cummings Floral Freeway Hazelnut Ingerson Lindey's Triangle Kenna Perry Round Lake Royal Hills Sampson 0 Shehey Valentine Arden Hills Park, Trail and Open Space Plan DRAFT October 1, 2001 Page 21 Implementation and Priority Recommendations - Grade Separated Trail Connections Trail Extensions Park System Recommendations Park and Open Space Acquisition and Easements Individual Park Renovation Recommendations Draft Capital Improvement Plan • Arden Hills Park, Trail and Open Space Plan DRAFT October 1, 2001 Page 22 APPENDICES - A. Arden Hills Park, Trail and Open Space Survey Results B. Public Meeting Summaries C. Trail Segment Analysis D. Individual Park Maps and Renovation Recommendations A. Arden Hills Park, Trail and Open Space Survey Results Introduction In February 2001 the City of Arden Hills, Minnesota conducted a public opinion survey of residents. The survey was designed to determine resident's attitudes about park, recreation and open space issues and to help guide preparation of a park, trail and open space plan for the city. The written survey was sent to 3,897 households and businesses in the city. A total of 593 completed surveys were returned for a response rate of 15%. This is a higher than normal response rate for a mail-back survey and indicates a high level of interest in city parks, trails and open spaces. This high response gives the survey results a relatively high degree of accuracy. The margin of error of the survey is plus or minus • 4%. A copy of the survey is attached. The following is a summary of the fmdings, implications for the park and trail plan and the results for each question. 1) Visitation Of the 593 returned surveys, 45% of the participants used Arden Hills' parks and trails on a weekly basis, 21% on a monthly basis and 26% on a yearly basis. These percents remained mostly constant when broken into the four demographic areas, north, central, southeast and southwest. The frequency of park use among survey respondents is likely to be higher than the average resident's use of parks and trails. This is due to the possibility that park users were more likely to complete and return the survey than non- park users. 2) Barriers to participation. Only 8% of those surveyed said they had never used the park and trail system. Of this 8%, the two most frequent explanations as to why the respondent had never used a park or trail were: 1) The respondent was unaware of parks and trails or 2) The respondent was new to the community, which might also explain why they are unaware of the existing park and trail system. Overall, few barriers exist to participation. Barriers to participation(# of responses): • Not aware of parks 16 Arden Hills Park, Trail and Open Space Plan DRAFT October 1, 2001 Page 23 • Prefer other parks 7 Not interested 7 Parks hard to find 5 Inadequate transportation 1 3) Park& Trail Use Tony Schmidt Park is the most frequently visited park in Arden Hills. The survey results indicate that residents from all areas of Arden Hills use Tony Schmidt Park equally. Residents from all areas of the city also frequently use Cummings, Floral, Valentine Hazelnut and Perry. As expected,the frequency of use for each park seems to be based on their specific amenities, size and location. A smaller park such as Sampson, is frequented more often by residents who live close to the park. Trail usage ranked high among those surveyed. However, many of those surveyed commented on the need to expand or improve the current park and trail network. Several respondents said that at times, trail users are forced to walk along busy or unsafe roadways to navigate the trail system. Park Use (# of responses in order of most to least frequented) City trails 235 1 Tony Schmidt 214 2 Cummings 174 3 Valentine 121 3 Floral 121 4 Hazelnut 117 4 Perry 117 5 Crepeau 71 6 Royal Hills 61 7 Ingerson 40 8 Freeway 35 9 Arden Oaks 29 10 Lindeys 23 10 Sampson 23 11 Arden Manor 11 4) Recreation Participation (in order of most frequented activities) Walking and biking are by far the most the most popular recreation activities. Use of children's playgrounds, nature areas, and picnicking and bird watching are popular activities. Popular active recreation includes swimming, running/jogging skating and hockey and team and informal sports. Arden Hills residents seem to prefer trail and passive park use. 1 Walk/hike 482 Arden Hills Park, Trail and Open Space Plan DRAFT October 1, 2001 Page 24 • 2 Bike 313 3 Children's playgrounds 253 4 Nature areas 199 5 Picnic 188 6 Swim 167 7 Jog/run 165 8 Ice skate/hockey 152 9 Bird watch 143 10 Organized sports 141 11 Informal sports 140 12 Tennis 123 13 Golf 122 14 Cross country ski 117 15 Inline skate 103 16 Outdoor court sports 91 17 Indoor court sports 64 18 Alternative sports 45 5) Desired Outdoor Recreation Elements (in order of respondents requests) The most frequently requested recreation facilities are trails and passive parks. • 1 Bike/walk trails 196 2 Natural areas 112 3 Ski trails 106 4 Golf course 82 5 Interpretive/historic areas 78 6 Swimming 64 7 Soccer fields 46 8 Picnic areas 36 8 Children's play areas 36 9 Baseball/softball fields 21 6) Satisfaction/Future Priorities (sorted by priority for the future) Survey respondents are very satisfied with trails, parks, recreation programs, communications, and park maintenance. They are less satisfied with the availability of indoor recreation facilities and special events. Recommended priorities for the future are trails, park maintenance, and passive parks. Current Rating Future Priority Satisfied Unsatisfied High Low Trails 379 (73%) 143 27% 419 (89%) 54 (11% • Park maintenance 414 (90%) 46 (10%) 297 (80%) 75 (20% Passive parks 355 77% 102 (23%) 313 (78%) 89 (22% Arden Hills Park, Trail and Open Space Plan DRAFT October 1, 2001 Page 25 Indoor recreation 209 (58%) 152 (42%) 224 (59%) 153 (41%) Communications 341 (92%) 29 (8%) 183 (56%) 145 (44%) Active parks 327 (82%) 70 (18%) 191 (53%) 172 (47%) Rec. programs 6-12 260 (90%) 28 (10%) 123 (41%) 179 (59%) Special events 209 (63%) 121 (27%) 120 (36%) 209 (64%) Rec. programs U6 264 (89%) 34 (11%) 98 (33%) 203 (67%) Rec. programs 19-64 223 (78%) 62 (22%) 101 (33%) 205 (67%) Rec. programs 13-18 225 (85% 39 (15%) 91 (31%) 200 (69%) Rec. programs 65+ 227 (83%) 46 (17%) 82 (28%) 213 (72%) Average (20%) (49%) (51%) 80%) 7) Indoor Recreation Facility Needs Respondents are interested in a fitness center, indoor track, and swimming pool. Fitness center 264 Run/walk track 223 Swimming 194 Golf practice 117 • Gyms 109 Aerobics 108 Tennis 85 Climbing wall 83 Racquetball 79 Play equipment 77 Soccer 43 Auditorium 36 Skateboard 21 8) Support for Improvements (from highest to lowest amount of support -Great and Marginal support totaled) There is community support for bike and walk trail additions, renovation of existing parks, improvements to passive parks and for acquisition of passive parks and open space lands. There is little support for acquisition of land for new athletic parks or for alternative forms of recreation. Great Marginal None Bike/walk trail additions 298 (58%) 134 (26%) 78 (15%) Renovate existin parks 134 (28%) 266 (55%) 87 (18%) Improve exist. passive parks 183 (37%) 213 (43%) 100 (20% • Acquire land for passive parks 154 32%) 170 (35%) 162 (33%) Arden Hills Park, Trail and Open Space Plan DRAFT October 1, 2001 Page 26 • Improve exist. athletic complexes 76 (16%) 208 (45%) 180 (39%) Acquire land for athletic parks 73 (15%) 158 (33%) 241 (51%) More alternative recreation 15602%) 131 (28%) 288 (61%) 9) Household Age Distribution (# of persons) 0-5 122 6-11 167 12-19 252 20-29 101 30-39 158 40-49 332 50-64 390 65+ 160 10) Types of Trail Surface Preferred Paved trails are the most popular trail surface. More natural surfaces (woodchip and grass) may be acceptable in certain locations. Paved 401 • Woodchip 159 Mowed grass 115 Crushed Rock 77 11) Neighborhood Location of Respondents Southwest 32% North 31% Southeast 16% Central 21% 12) a. Concentrate on existing facilities Survey respondents feel that the city should concentrate its efforts on improvement of existing recreation facilities vs. adding new parks. Strongly Agree Agree Not sure Disagree StronglyDisa ree 159 1 236 96 51 1 (71% Strongly Agree and Agree) (9% Disagree and Strongly Disagree) b. Satisfied with rec. service and facilities for tax $ • Most residents are satisfied with the recreation value they receive for their tax dollar. Arden Hills Park, Trail and Open Space Plan DRAFT October 1, 2001 Page 27 • Strongly Agree Agree Not sure Disagree StronglyDisa ree 87 305 94 62 12 (70% Strongly Agree and Agree) (14% Disagree and Strongly Disagree) bl. Satisfied with service if fee increase Fee increases would slightly diminish people's opinion of recreation value for their tax dollars. Strongly Agree Agree Not sure Disagree tStronglyree Disa 56 204 205 59 1 (48% Strongly Agree and Agree) (15% Disagree and Strongly Disagree) W. Satisfied with service if tax increase A property tax increase would further diminish people's opinion of recreation value for their tax dollar. However, more people would still be satisfied than unsatisfied if a tax increase occurred for park and reaction purposes. There may be sufficient support for a future bond referendum for select trail and recreation improvements. Strongly Agree Agree Not sure Disagree Strongly Disa ree 57 1 143 185 102 58 (37% Strongly Agree and Agree) (29% Disagree and Strongly Disagree) • Arden Hills Park, Trail and Open Space Plan DRAFT October 1, 2001 Page 28 • Community Meeting Summary - Community Meeting Summaries - July 9-12, 2001 (#) indicates meeting number. Introduction - Four community meetings were held during the week of July 9-12, 2001 at various locations around the city. Approximately 80 attended the meetings. Meeting participants provided input regarding the overall city park, trail and open space system and individual parks and trails. The community input is summarized below. This input combined with the April, 2001 public opinion survey and interviews with stakeholders and affiliates will assist the Parks, Trails and Recreation Commission with preparation of the Arden Hills Parks, Trails and Open Space Plan. General Comments— Need Collaboration with Ramsey County Colleges and school Districts. (1,2,3,4) Picnic Facilities (3) - Add shelter, shade structures (3) • Save/conserve open space (4) Indoor Recreation needed for swimming and indoor track, art classes and history center (4) Nature Center(1,2,3,4) Keeping up the existing park system will be adequate (4) Hwy 96 barrier to movement (When will trails be ready?) (4) Finish Tony Schmidt system(trail connections to park along Lk. Johanna Blvd., etc) (2) Plow trails in winter(4) When will TCAAP be ready(4) Trail/Signage connections (4) Trail/road crossing possibility at Hamline and Snelling RR bridge (3) • Bridge over highway 10 (2) Arden Hills Park, Trail and Open Space Plan DRAFT October 1, 2001 Page 29 • Cooperation with the colleges (1,2,3,4) Park and Rec info pamphlets etc. out to community(3) Feeling of neighborhoods being landlocked? Focus on non-motorized trail connections (1) Make bridges usable for pedestrians and bikes and skaters/rollerbladers. (1,2&3) Loop bike route around Lake Josephine (1) Create gathering places for kids within neighborhood parks. (2) Lindeys should stay a park. (2) County removed softball backstop in Tony Schmidt. (2) Storm water pond maintenance is needed - i.e. pond by Tiller Lane and south end of Creapau Park. Siltation and debris. Need maintenance plan involving City, homeowners, County and Rice Creek Watershed. Runoff comes form Lexington Avenue. (1) Crepeau as a neighborhood park w/play structure (2) Lack of water supply at parks is not a priority issues for users.(1&2) Large roads are barriers which require people to drive to reach nearby parks. (1&2) People aren't aware of the City parks and trails. (1) Better park identification signs are needed& signs showing trail connections etc (1,2,3) Add "children playing" or "park - slow " traffic safety sign near the parks. (1) Need safe access from neighborhoods to parks (3) Ingraham& Assoc. to help facilitate county involvement in Arden hills park improvements (2) Explore trail options w/West Lake Johanna(2) -alleviate problems w/"danger trails" (i.e. auto traffic conflicts etc) -displacement of trail users to Old Snelling and New Brighton Blvd Loop trail needed to move trail users off streets (2&3) • Skating trail/canal?(3) Arden Hills Park, Trail and Open Space Plan DRAFT October 1, 2001 Page 30 • Site specific park amenities vs. generalized park amenities(3) Priority for a comprehensive trail system(w/ Ramsey Co. participation) Larger skating surfaces (3) Trail connections to North side of A.H. (and Vice versa) (2) Round Lake polluted, no access (2) Limit Truck traffic on Johanna Lake Rd (vehicle weight limit) (2) Trail option south of Presbyterian homes (2) Fifty/fifty split for paved/non-paved trails (2) -safety areas or specific use (ie biking) could be paved (2) -smaller/less traffic trails should be unpaved?(2) Emphasis on EASE OF USE (2) Emphasis on CONNECTIVITY (2) Off-leash dog park?(2) No railroad gravel on trails for biking use! (2) LOW DESIRE for A.H. indoor recreation facility "Tear drops"to signify"park entrances" and usages (2) -used as traffic calming strategy along pedestrian thoroughfares. Help from Shoreview with trail connection to Shoreview (ie funding) (2) Partnerships with neighbor communities utilizing resources (3) Site Specific Comments— Sampson Park- New playground structure is too small(2) -designed for tots? (2) Royal Hills Park- Trail connection to N Heights Church(4) • Dog Waste container (4) Arden Hills Park, Trail and Open Space Plan DRAFT October 1, 2001 Page 31 B Ball Field—T ball only(4) Parking no sufficient/check on why no parking signs exist (4) Valentine Park- Raise grade, effective drainage vs. incremental improvements (3) Park is integral to the community(3) Need path/entrance to park form neighborhood (3) Flooding of parking lot vs. infield/grade issues (3) Picnic tables with shade (3) Swings (3) Reconsider layout of park (parking orientation parallel to Valentine road , grading etc...) (3) Hazelnut Park- • Need better maintenance of park land (2) -dead tree removal -trimming of trees/ grasses Auto traffic on Pedestrian trails is major problem(2) Hazelnut trails do not accommodate biking/roller blading etc. (2) Wider Trails(2) Need benches/seating (2) Invasive species problems/"Chinese elms" (2) Delineate sides of trail for "walkers"/"bikers" (2) Fix dilapidated fencing (2) Hockey"dropoff' problem(2) -add lights from church parking to hockey rink -pave hockey rinks (3) Sledding skating conflict (2) • Arden Hills Park, Trail and Open Space Plan DRAFT October 1, 2001 Page 32 Round Lake Park- Relocate A.H. community gardens to Round Lake (3) Leave as open space? (3) Trail link to the west (3) -to RR bridge and long lake Charles Perry Park- Re-evaluate use of space during all seasons Off road dirt bike trails (3) Portable skate parks Bridge easement issues/ improve trails and access to park (2&3) Seating needed at new playground (2) Ages of play structures? (2) Water Fountain? (2) Shelter Shade structure?(2) Formal trail needed on south side?(2) Erosion problems (2) Road divides hockey rink and warming house (2&3) "No golfing" signage on west and south sides of park(2) '/2 court basketball w/backstop (2) Paved surface /courts inside hockey rinks for summer use (2&3) Park programming for Perry?(2) Location of play structure / safety issues/relocate closer to warming house (3) Add recreational skating rink?(3) • Arden Hills Park, Trail and Open Space Plan DRAFT October 1, 2001 Page 33 Add bridge and trails across the swamp?(3) Crepeau Park- Add a children play area for the Hunters Park Neighborhood. (1) Add playground equip. by Benton way(1) The wood chip trails are nice. (1) Need Buckthorn(invasive species)removal and woodland management. (1&2) Boyscout project (1) -Bridge or stone crossing for wildlife (1) - add bird houses(1) -Re-plant prairie area(1) MSI restricts bike and inline trail use Water off Lexington-weeds(2) Water quality-erosion Management/maintenance of storm ponds • Add picnic tables and trash cans. (1) A trail map is needed. (1) Species Diversity(2) Ingerson Park- Can a"back way" (easement) trail to Ingerson Park be found?(1) Keep the sliding hill. (1) Frisbee golf might be a good use if it does not interfere with sliding. (1) Lindey's Triangle Park- Keep Lindey's as a park. Replace the backstop. (1) Keep it for flexible open play space. (1&2) Kites(2) Soccer(2) Parking issues(2) Lacrosse (2) Softball(2) • Add an exercise station. (1&2) Arden Hills Park, Trail and Open Space Plan DRAFT October 1, 2001 Page 34 Parking can be a problem on the street. (1) Need park sign. (2) Need traffic sign for park (2) Sitting benches on Hill overlooking Lindey's Triangle (in between crab trees) (4) Freeway Park- Parking is dangerous in the winter. Need a barrier between the rinks and the parking area. (1) Need security lighting in the lower area. (1) Need protective fencing around the hockey rink. (1) Add a tennis court and backboard. (1) The path to the ice rink is steep and icy. (1) • Pave the rink for summer use. (1) Have a full court basketball in the lower area. (1) Need guard rails between the TH51 southbound entrance ramp and the park. (1) Add park safety sign on Co. Rd. E. (1) Balance open skating and parking (1) Barriers/guard rail for ramp (1) Chatham Park- Trail surface unpaved but not dirt (3) Maintain mixed trail surfaces paved/unpaved(3) Trail to Venus Ave. (3) -priority for surface upgrade -currently used by many groups Ongoing community involvement/volunteering (3) LaCrosse/Soccer Field use (3) Arden Hills Park, Trail and Open Space Plan DRAFT October 1, 2001 Page 35 Cummings Park- No water in the park (4) Limited Parking /need more(4) Signage (4) Floral Park- Long walk to ball field (4) Parking (4) Water?(4) North/ West Trail Connection(4) Water problem/hwy rain(4) Drainage issue on Trails (4) More Tennis Courts (Royal Hills) (4) • Trail Segment Analysis— Individual trails within the City were rated by members of the PTRC based on a variety of criteria: (List them, or provide an example of a rating sheet) Lake Johanna Blvd—Lake Johanna Blvd is a paved shoulder trail on a County Road. The trail is well used and the traffic levels are high. The surface condition of the trail has been rated as below average. The City should work with the County to provide adequate maintenance of the trail and to provide a detached trail where possible, work to reroute truck traffic to other roads, and maintain lower speeds. This trail has great potential as Lake Johanna Blvd will need reconstructing in the near future. The City should partner and work with Ramsey County,Northwestern College and MnDOT to provide a looped trail around Lake Johanna. Sampson/Hazelnut Trail—The bituminous trail is well maintained with only a few cracks and damaged areas and is aesthetically pleasing. The trail terminates with a flower garden at Cleveland Avenue. The trail is broken up with two parks, Sampson and Hazelnut where there is adequate seating and facilities. A Trail Sign and map with is recommended at the trail ends with landscaping. Trails in Sampson/Hazelnut Trail—The bituminous trail received an above average rating. 10 The surface is rough for inline skating, but has adequate width and length. Maintenance Arden Hills Park, Trail and Open Space Plan DRAFT October 1, 2001 Page 36 I was rated as poor with erosion deposits in low areas. There are adequate resting places, however, the benches appear to be unused. Relocation of the benches should be considered. The aesthetic appearance of the trail corridor was poorly rated. Improved landscaping is recommended. Cummings to Floral Park- The bituminous trail is varied in topography, partially shaded with good views, wild in appearance with adequately spaced and located resting areas. The trail surface is cracked and the trail is slightly overgrown with vegetation. The crossing at Hamlin Avenue is difficult in spite of striped crosswalk. Maintenance is relatively good. Lexington Ave from County Road F to Tamarack The detached bituminous trail is in average condition with some cracks and settling. There are no planned resting areas except for bus stops along the route. Landscaping is recommended to provide screening, traffic separation, seating areas where appropriate. New Brighton Road to County Road E This trail is a narrow paved shoulder. The pavement narrows at the railroad railroad bridge and is dangerous. It is recommended that this trail be upgraded when New Brighton Road and the railroad bridge are reconstructed. Segments of this trail should be detached from the roadbed as possible. This project will require a working relationship • with the railroad and Ramsey County. Colleen Avenue to Highway 96 Roughly a mile of bituminous trail located in a valley between residential back yards. The trail has been rated well, although it is recommended that additional resting areas be considered and landscaping to provide some separation from back yards where appropriate. Arden Hills Park, Trail and Open Space Plan DRAFT October 1, 2001 Page 37