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06/13/2023 - City Council Special SPECIAL CITY COUNCIL MEETING TUESDAY JUNE 13, 2023 5:30 P.M. EAGAN ROOM – EAGAN MUNICIPAL CENTER AGENDA I. ROLL CALL AND ADOPTION OF THE AGENDA II. VISITORS TO BE HEARD III. PARK FACILITY / ECC STUDY UPDATE IV. NORTHWEST CENTRAL COMMONS SMALL AREA PLAN V. 2024–2025 BUDGET UPDATE VI. OTHER BUSINESS VII. ADJOURNMENT Agenda Information Memo June 13, 2023 Eagan Special City Council Workshop III. Recreation Facilities Planning Update and ECC Study Action For Consideration: To receive an update on the ECC services and financial sustainability study and updates on facility planning for the Eagan Art House and Goat Hill Rink Roof and Shelter Building projects. Facts: ➢ Recreation facilities planning has been a focus for the last four years as the community has grown and changed since our original construction of our major park and recreation assets. ➢ With a comprehensive study in 2019, several projects were analyzed for updating, or reconstructing across the city to provide for the next few decades of recreation programming. ➢ With COVID19 the planning process took a 2 year stall but came back online in 2022. ➢ Direction was given to staff at the Council Retreat on January 31, 2023, to start the official planning of Phase 1 projects, which included the Eagan Art House, the Goat Hill Rink Roof and Shelter Building, and the Eagan Community Center. ➢ To best identify ways to invest in the Community Center, staff was instructed t o study the ECC to help best identify the future of this marquee recreation facility for the next several decades. ➢ 110% was hired earlier this year as a consultant to help analyze the services and facility of the ECC, educate the team on cost recovery principles, and help identify net revenue producing, programmatic space to assist in future architecture and planning for the building. ➢ Tuesday night the consultant with 110% and staff will provide updates to City Council on progress to date, timelines, and plans for future work to be seen over the next few months with another check in at the September combined workshop with the APRC. In addition, Finance Director Josh Feldman will go over updated financial information for Council; and Communications and Engagement Director Joe Ellickson will go over the planned communications and engagement plan for these projects. Attachments: (2) III-1 Presentation by 110% on ECC Study III-2 Recreation Facilities Presentation Financial Sustainability Strategy S E R V I N G T H E PA R K S A N D R E C R E AT I O N I N D U S T R Y . Project overview Financial Sustainability Strategy Facility Utilization & Program Analysis Providers Inventory S E R V I N G T H E PA R K S A N D R E C R E AT I O N I N D U S T R Y . S E R V I N G T H E PA R K S A N D R E C R E AT I O N I N D U S T R Y . Our Project Team Parks &Reconomics How we manage our finite resources. S E R V I N G T H E PA R K S A N D R E C R E AT I O N I N D U S T R Y . S E R V I N G T H E PA R K S A N D R E C R E AT I O N I N D U S T R Y . Intersections of conditions which affect parks & recreation Inflation Dated processes Public health crisis Social unrest & chaos Increasing disparities/needs Lack of revenue diversification Limited financial literacy Maintenance backlogs Unreasonable expectations Staffing deficiencies Struggling competitors/partners… 20 1 3 – 20 1 8 F i n a n c i a l p e r f o r m a n c e Fiscal Realities S E R V I N G T H E PA R K S A N D R E C R E AT I O N I N D U S T R Y . REALITY POLICY Are you smart about managing money? S E R V I N G T H E PA R K S A N D R E C R E AT I O N I N D U S T R Y . Tax Investment/Revenue Enhancement Philosophy & Policy Service categories Beneficiary of service Cost of service Education - Data & Information Education - Realities S E R V I N G T H E PA R K S A N D R E C R E AT I O N I N D U S T R Y . © 2023 110% Inc. All rights reserved.Common Good Individualized Re q u i r e s S u b s i d y I n v e s t m e n t – Lo w C o s t R e c o v e r y Lo w t o N o S u b s i d y I n v e s t m e n t – Hi g h C o s t R e c o v e r y Fi n a n c i a l S u s t a i n a b i l i t y C o n t i n u u m Financial Sustainability Strategy © 2023 110% Inc. All rights reserved. COMMUNITY INVESTMENT STRATEGY example* *reduce reliance on the GF; re-investment in the organization; increase self reliance; emphasize how taxpayer dollars are spent Fi n a n c i a l S u s t a i n a b i l i t y C o n t i n u u m Re q u i r e s S u b s i d y I n v e s t m e n t – Lo w C o s t R e c o v e r y Lo w t o N o S u b s i d y I n v e s t m e n t – Hi g h C o s t R e c o v e r y Common Good Individualized © 2023 110% Inc. All rights reserved.Common Good Individualized Hi g h S u b s i d y – Lo w C o s t R e c o v e r y Lo w S u b s i d y – Hi g h C o s t R e c o v e r y Financial Sustainability Strategy Fi n a n c i a l S u s t a i n a b i l i t y C o n t i n u u m Service Categories Co s t R e c o v e r y / S u b s i d y I n v e s t m e n t G o a l s Competitive advantage – public sector Competitive advantage – NPO/private sector © 2023 110% Inc. All rights reserved. S E R V I N G T H E PA R K S A N D R E C R E AT I O N I N D U S T R Y . Tax Use & Revenue Enhancement Continuum for public & non-profit agencies Profit Center Subsidize Divest Tax Investment/Revenue Enhancement Philosophy & Policy Service categories Beneficiary of service S E R V I N G T H E PA R K S A N D R E C R E AT I O N I N D U S T R Y . Cost of service Complete Complete In Progress S E R V I N G T H E PA R K S A N D R E C R E AT I O N I N D U S T R Y . Financial Sustainability Strategy S E R V I N G T H E PA R K S A N D R E C R E AT I O N I N D U S T R Y . Facility Utilization & Program Analysis S E R V I N G T H E PA R K S A N D R E C R E AT I O N I N D U S T R Y . The ROI of Facility Space Facility sq ft. = 80,000 Programmable sq ft. = 53,000 Facility sq ft. = 42,000 Programmable sq ft. = 36,000 S E R V I N G T H E PA R K S A N D R E C R E AT I O N I N D U S T R Y . financial viability market position alignment with purpose competitive landscape strong weak In v e s t In v e s t Ex i t S t r a t e g y Su b s i d i z e Ex i t S t r a t e g y Co l l a b o r a t i o n or Ex i t S t r a t e g y Co l l a b o r a t i o n or Ex i t S t r a t e g y Co l l a b o r a t i o n or In v e s t Ex i t S t r a t e g y or or or or strong weak strong weak strong weak strong weakor strong weakor strong weakor strong weakor S E R V I N G T H E PA R K S A N D R E C R E AT I O N I N D U S T R Y . Providers Inventory/Workshop NEXT STEPS: ❑Begin program analysis ❑Cost of service analysis continues ❑Plan providers inventory workshop S E R V I N G T H E PA R K S A N D R E C R E AT I O N I N D U S T R Y . Thank you! Farrell Buller Ethics * Leadership * Financial Sustainability FIELDHOUSE:Rigid Structure ART HOUSE CIVIC ARENA COMMUNITY CENTER FIELDHOUSE:Inflated Dome RECREATION FACILITIES CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLAN CASCADE BAY Presentation Preview June 13, 2023 Council Workshop ECC Update: 110% Art House Update: Tanya Mozingo Goat Hill Update:Chris Fleck Financial Update:Josh Feldman C&E Update:Joe Ellickson Council Feedback:Andrew Pimental 2023 ECC Study Design for adaptation over time and flexibility/adjustment through all seasons.. Design a durable & Maintainable facility that feels equally warm and inviting. Design for an inclusive identity –welcoming and inviting for all to gather – regardless of their association with art. Design for universal access with comfort and ease of use for all people, ages, and abilities. Design for indoor –outdoor connection of spaces and activities. Design for high performance including water, energy, & Materials (operational and embodied carbon reductions). Design to reduce our waste streams including the high use of water and electricity in pottery. 2023 ECC Study Art House Project 2023 ECC Study Art House Project Goat Hill Project Primary Financial Tool Tax Abatement Impact to Residents Debt Issuance Timing Abatement Process Bonding Process 2023 ECC Study Art House Project Goat Hill Project Financial Planning Finance Plan Parks Facilities Planning Communications and Engagement Plan Joe Ellickson and Sara Horwath 2023 ECC Study Art House Project Goat Hill Project Financial Planning Public Education Connect residents with information about our recreation facilities improvements and share the value of each of these projects to the community in a manner that highlights the long-term improvements of our park system and the livability of Eagan. Opportunity Recreation Facilities Communications and Engagement Plan Educate, build buy-in, and explain why our parks are essential Use language and materials that engage, include, and inform Inform the community about our park system, the balance we create, and why we invest in parks Share how these facilities are the next chapter in essential park updates Engage community and stakeholders by informing, consulting, and involving. Goals External •Residents •Businesses •Advocates •Media •Associations •County •Commissions •Other agencies Internal •Council •City staff •City leadership •Project stakeholders/project team Audiences Mayor Mike Maguire & City Council City Administrator Dianne Miller Parks & Recreation leaders Project spokespeople •Eagan Art House •Goat Hill Park •Eagan Community Center •Campaign City spokespeople •Communications & Engagement •Finance External •Users Messengers Key Message / Tagline •Eagan is planning/ building/ visioning our future fun, connections, and spaces, so we all can thrive. Messages Themes •Vision and balance •Park system •Inclusion •Community values •Investing in parks Messages (cont’d) Project-specific communications strategyProject-Specific Communications Strategy What we are doing Facilities included Who is impacted Key stats / numbers Price and bonding information Messages (cont’d) History Impact in Eagan Project information Engagement opportunities Project Messages Phase 1: Set stage / Public Education Phase 2: Intro and socialize campaign and projects Phase 3: Project specific communications Phase 4: Ongoing project communications Phase 5: Recap and value sharing Phases Themes •Eagan’s parks have places for everyone – balance, inclusive, connecting •Eagan invests in our public spaces •Parks, recreation, and facilities are a priority and community value •Why these facilities are important to the community •Facts about the facilities •Stories that highlight use of facilities •Facility study facts Tactics •Experience Eagan •Social •Email •Press Release •Website •Engagement (Goat Hill happened) Phase 1: set stage and public education Phase 1 collateral Phase 1 collateral Experience Eagan insert (or mail or postcard options) Videos will be used High quality images Consistent messaging, graphics, and language throughout the campaign and projects Digital presence Additional considerations Questions on Process? 2023 ECC Study Art House Project Goat Hill Project Financial Planning Public Education Andrew Pimental –Project Updates Director of Parks & Recreation Josh Feldman –Tax Abatement & Timing Director of Finance Joe Ellickson –Communications & Engagement Plan Director of Communications & Engagement Agenda Information Memo June 13, 2023, Special City Council Workshop IV. Northwest Central Commons Small Area Plan Direction for Consideration: Provide direction to staff regarding the Northwest Central Commons Small Area Plan Background  The City Council approved a Request for Proposals for the Northwest Central Commons Small Area Plan on August 16, 2022.  The City Council approved a Professional Services Agreement with Bolton & Menk for the Small Area Plan (the “Plan”) on December 6, 2022.  At the February 14, 2023, City Council work session meeting, the consultant provided an update on initial progress, and the City Council provided direction on policy questions.  Since the February work session meeting, work on the Plan has included: o Meetings with representatives of property owners. o Site research and analysis of existing conditions, opportunities, and constraints. o The first phase of public engagement including print and social media outreach, a digital survey, two pop-up events at the Eagan Community Center, and an event with 132 fourth and fifth graders at Pilot Knob Stem Elementary School. o Preparation of three concept plans. o Preliminary financial analysis of three concepts.  Andrew Dresdner (Project Manager) and Mike Thompson (Planner) will attend the June 13, 2023, City Council work session on behalf of the consultant.  The consultants will present the concept plans to the City Council and ask for feedback on elements of each concept. The concept plans are intended to assist policy discussions on the City’s vision for the site. Policymakers will not be asked to choose between the concept plans, but to provide direction on which elements of individual concepts are worthy of further consideration.  Following City Council direction, concept plans will be revised for presentation during the next phase of public engagement in July and August 2023.  Staff and consultants will collaborate on a final draft plan to be presented to the City Council in fall 2023.  The draft final plan will incorporate City Council direction, feedback from public engagement, and a detailed financial analysis of tax revenue, infrastructure costs, development phasing, and possible financial tools. Policy Questions 1) For each concept, which elements are appealing, which should not be carried forward, and what should be changed prior to the next phase of public engagement? 2) What is the City Council’s appetite to make changes to the following? a) The Unisys bluff b) Parking c) Trail connections d) The rugby fields e) Fireworks f) Access to the north Attachments (4): IV-1 Presentation, Bolton & Menk-Eagan Council Work Session, June 2023 IV-2 Memo, Bolton & Menk-Eagan Council Work Session, June 2023 IV-3 Communications & Engagement Summary-Spring 2023 IV-4 Public comments – survey and email-Spring 2023 1June 13, 2023Eagan, MinnesotaNORTHWEST COMMONS SMALL AREA PLAN 1 AGENDA 1. AREA VISION - GOALS & OUTCOMES 2. SITE STRENGTHS, CHALLENGES, OPPORTUNITIES 3. CONCEPTS, OUTCOMES, DISCUSSION 4. FINANCIAL ANALYSIS 5. POLICY QUESTIONS 6. NEXT STEPS 2June 13, 2023Eagan, MinnesotaNORTHWEST COMMONS SMALL AREA PLAN 2 1 ENGAGEMENT 3 CONCEPT PLANS & IMPACTS REVIEW 2 CONDITIONS ANALYSIS 4 DRAFT AREA PLAN PROJECT TIMELINE JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEPT Northwest Central Commons Small Area Plan Schedule 3June 13, 2023Eagan, MinnesotaNORTHWEST COMMONS SMALL AREA PLAN 3 PROJECT GOAL & PRINCIPLES Project Goal Project Principles Balance demands for public service with positive outcomes for Eagan. Create a land use vision that maximizes benefits for Eagan, leverages the City’s marquee park and natural aesthetics, and fosters positive “rippling” effects on the surrounding area. Area land use vision is market-driven, and offers long term development stability. Public investment is driven by, and supportive of, the land use vision. 4June 13, 2023Eagan, MinnesotaNORTHWEST COMMONS SMALL AREA PLAN 4 Through public and private coordination, the Northwest Commons Area will deliver the following broadly shared public outcomes: • The creation of well-paying jobs. • Growth to city tax revenue; and high land productivity. • A more active and better connected park for more users throughout the day, week, and year. • Housing options / choices for existing and new Eagan residents. • Preservation (and enhancement) of existing area ecology, tree canopy, hydrology, and topography. • Land uses that are complementary to the park and to each other. • Land uses and patterns that are “transit ready.” • Complete neighborhoods that encourage walking and biking, and reduce vehicle trips. AREA VISION; PRIMARY PUBLIC OUTCOMES 5June 13, 2023Eagan, MinnesotaNORTHWEST COMMONS SMALL AREA PLAN 5 SITE STRENGTHS Ma p D o c u m e n t : \ \ a r c s e r v e r 1 \ G I S \ E A G A \ _ P r o p o s a l s \ 0 P P P 0 2 9 3 4 \ E S R I \ M a p s \ E A G A _ G r a p h i c B a s e m a p _ 1 1 X 1 7 L . m x d | D a t e S a v e d : 9 / 6 / 2 0 2 2 1 1 : 4 8 : 5 6 A M NW Central Commons Small Area PlanCity of Eagan, MN BasemapSeptember 2022LegendTaxParcelsBuilding_FootprintsNWI Parks 01,000 Feet Source: MnGeo, Dakota County !I 1. Existing high-quality natural green / open space with unique topographical features. 2. Strong history of community programming and investment. 3. Large land area provides flexibility for infrastructure and land use mix. 4. Near-proximity to I-35E and I-494 1 3 3 4 4 2 6June 13, 2023Eagan, MinnesotaNORTHWEST COMMONS SMALL AREA PLAN 6 SITE CHALLENGES 1. Parking needs for large public events. 2. Fireworks clear zone. 3. Pipeline easement. 4. Rugby fields (city-wide demand for additional field space). 5. Lack of pedestrian or vehicle access from north and west. 6. No public right of way access to Delta site. 7. Market shift away from corporate office. 8. No public control over future use / preservation of the bluff. 1 4 2 5 5 6 8 7 3 7June 13, 2023Eagan, MinnesotaNORTHWEST COMMONS SMALL AREA PLAN 7 SITE OPPORTUNITIES 1. Improve land uses to be more complementary to surrounding areas, and the park, while helping further activate the park 2. Improve access to Delta, Unisys, and Park properties via public roadway • Improves marketability and value of Delta site • Improves accessibility to north half of park 3. Views and vistas across the park and from the bluff 4. Reimagine park space, relating to large community events • Reposition rugby fields for improved useability/accessible space • Connections between existing parks - an "emerald string of pearls" 5. Enhanced site hydrology while reconnecting and preserving natural systems 4 4 1 4 3 5 2 1 2 2 8June 13, 2023Eagan, MinnesotaNORTHWEST COMMONS SMALL AREA PLAN 8 THREE CONCEPTS CONCEPT 1 Jobs on the Park CONCEPT 2 Central Park Village CONCEPT 3 A Park Runs Through it Common elements across each concept: 1. A mix of jobs and housing (range) 2. Preserving the core of the park 3. Trail connections between existing adjacent parks 4. New public street(s) 9June 13, 2023Eagan, MinnesotaNORTHWEST COMMONS SMALL AREA PLAN 9 JOBS ON THE PARK A D B B C A D C Key Elements: • Park boundary and programming unchanged • Jobs and commercial uses are primary uses. • Large single-tenant corporate campus. • Vehicular access layout largely unchanged. • Trail-only connection between parks. • Bluff is preserved under private ownership. PI L O T K N O B R D PI L O T K N O B R D CENTRAL PK W Y CENTRAL PK W Y TOWERVIEW RDTOWERVIEW RD RED CEDAR RDRED CEDAR RD CORP. CAMPUSCORP. CAMPUS HOUSINGHOUSING HOUSINGHOUSING OFFICE / OFFICE / MEDICAL OFFICEMEDICAL OFFICE OFFICEOFFICE RESTAURANT/ RESTAURANT/ RETAILRETAIL JURDY RD JURDY RD 10June 13, 2023Eagan, MinnesotaNORTHWEST COMMONS SMALL AREA PLAN 10 CENTRAL PARK VILLAGE A C B B D A D C Key Elements: • Developed Bluff • Highest range of residential densities / choices • Limited mixed-use development • Relocated rugby fields • Structured public parking adjacent to community center HOUSINGHOUSING HOUSINGHOUSING HOUSINGHOUSING OFFICE / OFFICE / MEDICAL OFFICEMEDICAL OFFICE OFFICEOFFICE RESTAURANT/ RESTAURANT/ RETAILRETAIL PI L O T K N O B R D PI L O T K N O B R D CENTRAL PK W Y CENTRAL PK W Y TOWERVIEW RDTOWERVIEW RD RED CEDAR RDRED CEDAR RD JURDY RD JURDY RD 11June 13, 2023Eagan, MinnesotaNORTHWEST COMMONS SMALL AREA PLAN 11 B A PARK RUNS THROUGH IT AA D C B D Key Elements: • Rugby fields relocated to Pilot Knob Park. • Bluff is preserved through public ownership. • Expanded housing options. • Park sale / acquisition. • Additional park programming / activities. C HOUSINGHOUSING HOUSINGHOUSING HOUSINGHOUSING OFFICE / OFFICE / MEDICAL OFFICEMEDICAL OFFICE OFFICEOFFICE RESTAURANT/ RESTAURANT/ RETAILRETAIL PI L O T K N O B R D PI L O T K N O B R D CENTRAL PK W Y CENTRAL PK W Y TOWERVIEW RDTOWERVIEW RD RED CEDAR RDRED CEDAR RD JURDY RD JURDY RD 12June 13, 2023Eagan, MinnesotaNORTHWEST COMMONS SMALL AREA PLAN 12 COMMERCIAL SQ FT TAX REVENUE . ACTIVE AND CONNECTED PARK HOUSING OPTIONS / CHOICES NATURAL FEATURE PRESERVATION / ENHANCEMENT COMPLEMENTARY LAND USES TRANSIT READY LAND USES, PATTERNS COMPLETE NEIGHBORHOODS CONCEPT 1 Jobs on the Park CONCEPT 3 A Park Runs Through it CONCEPT 2 Central Park VillagePUBLIC OUTCOMES ANALYSIS 13June 13, 2023Eagan, MinnesotaNORTHWEST COMMONS SMALL AREA PLAN 13 ABSORPTION ASSUMPTIONS JOBS ON THE PARK PARK RUNS THROUGH IT CENTRAL PARK VILLAGE 1-5 YEARS 6-10 YEARS 16-20 YEARS11-15 YEARS TOTAL RES. UNITS: 750 UNITS = 50,000 SF COMMERCIAL SPACE = 150 RESIDENTIAL UNITS TOTAL RES. UNITS: 2,500 UNITS TOTAL RES. UNITS: 1,400 UNITS TOTAL COMMERCIAL Sq Ft: 625,000 *A corporate campus may develop alongside other commercial projects during the 20-year absorption period. TOTAL COMMERCIAL Sq Ft: 325,000 TOTAL COMMERCIAL Sq Ft: 310,000 * 14June 13, 2023Eagan, MinnesotaNORTHWEST COMMONS SMALL AREA PLAN 14 PRELIMINARY FISCAL ANALYSIS TOTAL TAX REVENUE (all jurisdictions) TOTAL CITY TAX REVENUE PRIMARY ROAD IN F R A S T R U C T U R E SC E N A R I O Y I E L D S SC E N A R I O SECONDARY ROAD RUGBY FIELDS, PARKING PARKING STRUCTURE TRAIL ROUNDABOUT TOTAL JOBS ON THE PARKTODAY RES.RES.RES. CITY TAX *commercial square feet COMM. (COMM. ONLY) COMM.COMM. $1.1M $2,100,000 $6,400,000 $3,900,000$1,700,000$870,000 $140,000 $900,000 $800,000 $6.5M X X X X X X X X X $.2M X X $6.7M $2.8M $5.8M $5.2M $5.5M $.2M $11M $1.5M $29.2M TOTAL RES. UNITS TOTAL COMMERCIAL SF TOTAL PARK AREA 750 units0 625,000 sq ft870,000 sf 64 ac64 ac 2500 units 325,000 sq ft 64 ac 1400 units 310,000 sq ft 76 ac $1.7M $6.5M $2.6M $5.5M $.3M X X $14.9M CENTRAL PARK VILLAGE PARK RUNS THROUGH IT UNITS UNITS UNITSSQ FT*SQ FT*SQ FT*CITY TAX CITY TAX CITY TAX DELTA UNISYS ARGOSY PARK (current park land) 350 1300 800300,000 10,000 0 $0 $42,000 $55,000 $40,000 $600,000 0 400 0 265,000 60,000 0 $100,000 $400,000 $0 600 600 180 250,000 65,000 0 $700,000 $600,000 Incl. w/ Delta Incl. w/ Delta 0 400 200 250,000 60,000 0 $100,000 $400,000 $1,500,000 $1,200,000 15June 13, 2023Eagan, MinnesotaNORTHWEST COMMONS SMALL AREA PLAN 15 POLICY QUESTIONS What is the City's appetite for making changes to: 1. The bluff? 2. Parking? 3. Trail connections? 4. The rugby fields? 5. Fireworks? 6. Access to north? 2 3 4 5 6 1 Northwest Commons Small Area Plan Delta / Unisys/former Argosy University Sites City of Eagan, MN Council Worksession June 2023 2June 2023 City of Eagan, MN NORTHWEST COMMONS SMALL AREA PLAN 2 A B C A B C Delta Delta Central Park Central ParkCentral Park Quarry Quarry ParkPark Unisys Unisys Argosy Argosy PI L O T K N O B R D TOWERVIEW ROAD LONE OAK RD YANKEE DOODLE RD Study Area Pilot Knob Pilot Knob ParkPark 3June 2023 City of Eagan, MN NORTHWEST COMMONS SMALL AREA PLAN 3 Small Area Plan Process: This worksession marks the midway point of the Small Area Plan. To date, we have conducted background research, site analysis, market analysis, public engagement, and exploration of alternatives. The purpose of this worksession is to share with you the main findings of our analysis, how they impact the future of the site, and to review three concept plans. The concept plans describe different design approaches and decision points - which lead to different outcomes. The purpose of the concept plans is to better understand what appeals to you and what concerns you as it relates to the long-term future of the site. Following this worksession we will make revisions, as necessary, and conduct public engagement later in the summer. In the fall we anticipate coming back to you with a draft plan. The draft concept plan may resemble one of the concept plans, it also may be a hybrid. Small Area Plan Purpose: The redevelopment of three large sites surrounding the City’s marquee park and Community Center is a generational opportunity for Eagan to redirect the future of a large portion of the City and to accomplish broad public goals that would otherwise be unachievable. Each of the three sites could redevelop independently, under current zoning and without public involvement. However, doing so would likely happen very slowly, and without significant public benefits. The purpose of the Small Area Plan is to coordinate the redevelopment of the sites with each other, with the surrounding context, and with future public investments. By doing so, a Small Area Plan can help the City achieve important and highly valued public outcomes. Background Project Goal: To create a land use vision that maximizes benefits for Eagan, leverages the City’s marquee park, and creates a positive ripple effect throughout the surrounding area. Project Principles : • Balance the demands for public services with the ability to develop revenues from private development. • A Vision that is market driven and offers long term stability. • Public investment that is driven by and supported by the land use vision. Public Outcomes: Through public / private coordination the Northwest Commons Area will deliver the following broadly shared public outcomes • The creation of well-paying jobs. • Growth of city tax revenue; and high land productivity. • A more active and better-connected park for more users throughout the day, week, and year. • Housing options / choices for existing and new Eagan residents. • Preservation (and enhancement) of existing area ecology, tree canopy, hydrology, and topography. • Land Uses that are complementary to the park and to each other. • Land uses and patterns that are “transit ready.” • Complete neighborhoods that encourage walking and biking and reduce traffic congestion. 4June 2023 City of Eagan, MN NORTHWEST COMMONS SMALL AREA PLAN 4 Ma p D o c u m e n t : \ \ a r c s e r v e r 1 \ G I S \ E A G A \ _ P r o p o s a l s \ 0 P P P 0 2 9 3 4 \ E S R I \ M a p s \ E A G A _ G r a p h i c B a s e m a p _ 1 1 X 1 7 L . m x d | D a t e S a v e d : 9 / 6 / 2 0 2 2 1 1 : 4 8 : 5 6 A M NW Central Commons Small Area PlanCity of Eagan, MN BasemapSeptember 2022LegendTaxParcelsBuilding_FootprintsNWI Parks 01,000 Feet Source: MnGeo, Dakota County !I Primary Features and Strengths of the Site • A Park and Community Center located in the center of the community • Within walking distance of retail and services • Well located along an arterial roadway • Natural Amenities – slope, wetlands, legacy oaks • Developable land – largely flat and served with utilities Primary Opportunities • Land uses that are more conducive to the surrounding area and have a better relationship with Central Park. • Improve access to both Delta, Unisys and Park properties with a public roadway »Improve marketability/valuation of Delta site »Improve accessibility to north half of park property • Improve the relationship of Central Park to surrounding properties with complimentary land uses that help activate the park. • Create views and vistas across the park and from the bluff • Re-imagine park space relating to large community events »Repositioning rugby fields for more useable/accessible space) »Connective trail opportunities in each direction • Improve the site’s hydrology, reconnect natural systems, preserve its assets Pi l o t K n o b R o a d Central Park 5June 2023 City of Eagan, MN NORTHWEST COMMONS SMALL AREA PLAN 5 Site Analysis How the Park Came to be In 2000 the City purchased the park from Duke Realty, for the purpose of building a community center and securing space for large public gatherings. The transaction was an “arms length” transaction in which all parties acted independently. The surrounding employers; Lockheed Martin, Delta (Northwest) and Unisys each submitted letters of support to the City as they viewed the park as an asset and positive/beneficial neighbor. In recognition of the purpose of the park for large gatherings, the three adjacent employers allowed weekend parking to support use of the park. While no agreement was formally signed, the lots have been used over the years for parking and pedestrian connections, without objection from the property owners. While the City purchased the full 60 acres, it did so more out of convenience than out of need. Discussion at the time suggested that only 45 acres was needed for the park and community center, and that excess land could be sold. The shape, size, orientation, and relationship to surrounding properties was, therefore, more a result of convenience and coincidence, than of strategy. Access to the Park When the site was acquired, the northern edge was defined by two large employers. As a result, the only public access to the 60-acre site is from the south – from Central Parkway. The 60-acre site is served (primarily) with a 400 car parking lot that occupies 8 acres – 13 percent of the 60-acre site. Additional parking was acquired by a cross parking easement with the the Argosy site. Over time, informal walking and bike connections to the park have been developed through private properties. But, notably there is no formal public pedestrian or vehicular access to the Park from its north, west, or east edge. Design of Park and Community Center Converting the 60 acres into a usable park and community center significantly altered the topography, hydrology and ecology of the site. While the eastern slope up to the pavilion was relatively untouched, the community center, parking area and rugby fields required significant earthwork. The Community Center is nestled into a gentle slope, stepping down to a former wetland (current pond). The soils that were removed from the site to create space for the community center were deposited on what Site Analysis Access and Parking for Central Park Central Park and Surrounding Properties in the Small Area Plan Ma p D o c u m e n t : \ \ a r c s e r v e r 1 \ G I S \ E A G A \ _ P r o p o s a l s \ 0 P P P 0 2 9 3 4 \ E S R I \ M a p s \ E A G A _ G r a p h i c B a s e m a p _ 1 1 X 1 7 L . m x d | D a t e S a v e d : 9 / 6 / 2 0 2 2 1 1 : 4 8 : 5 6 A M NW Central Commons Small Area Plan City of Eagan, MN Basemap September 2022 Legend TaxParcels Building_Footprints NWI Parks 0 1,000 Feet Source: MnGeo, Dakota County !I Ma p D o c u m e n t : \ \ a r c s e r v e r 1 \ G I S \ E A G A \ _ P r o p o s a l s \ 0 P P P 0 2 9 3 4 \ E S R I \ M a p s \ E A G A _ G r a p h i c B a s e m a p _ 1 1 X 1 7 L . m x d | D a t e S a v e d : 9 / 6 / 2 0 2 2 1 1 : 4 8 : 5 6 A M NW Central Commons Small Area PlanCity of Eagan, MN BasemapSeptember 2022LegendTaxParcels Building_Footprints NWI Parks 0 1,000 Feet Source: MnGeo, Dakota County !I Parking oval bandshell ECC Delta Unisys Pilot Knob Park Central Park and ECC Argosy Quarry Park Tower 6June 2023 City of Eagan, MN NORTHWEST COMMONS SMALL AREA PLAN 6 Site Analysis became the rugby fields – which is why the rugby fields are elevated (and ADA inaccessible). These alterations interrupted the natural hydrology through the site – specifically the connection to the wetlands at Quarry Park to the southwest. Access to Surrounding Properties The 30-acre Delta Site has access to one public road that dead ends at the site’s northeast corner. The Delta Site has a secondary access (from the south) however it is via a park drive along the west edge of the rugby fields. This park drive is “public” but it is not a platted road. And while the park drive connects up to the dead end at Towerview, this is not a public road through the Delta Site. Unisys has access to Pilot Knob Road and to Towerview Road. Signalization, if warranted, would not meet spacing requirements at Towerview. Signalization, if warranted, would meet the County’s spacing requirements at Quarry drive. However, doing so would require removal of the Unisys building, regrading, and utility realignment. It is unknown at this time whether site redevelopment would warrant signalization. Site redevelopment may lead to Dakota County limiting turning maneuvers and access at Pilot Knob Road. Developability of Delta and Unisys If the access issue to Delta can be solved with a public road connecting from Pilot Knob Road to the west edge of the park, the Delta site is relatively developable– that is, it is not significantly encumbered with slopes, wetlands, setbacks, or other common constraints. Consideration should be given to how the site transitions to existing neighborhoods, and to preservation of some large trees, but in general, the Delta site is relatively straightforward. The Unisys Site, on the other hand, has features that will complicate its redevelopment. Approximately two-thirds of the site is flat and unencumbered. Development is constrained by the 59-foot height limit defined by the Sperry tower. The remaining one-third of the site has a hillside and slope with large oaks and meadow. The slope is part of a ravine that divides the two sites, leading down to the wetlands and pond adjacent to the ECC. The hillside on Unisys is visible from all parts of the Park, serves as a backdrop to park activities, and a foreground to the Sperry Tower. It is important to note, that the slope is not public, and therefore it is neither protected nor utilized as a part of the park. Developability: Topography, Wetlands, Tree Cover Access to Unisys and Delta Ma p D o c u m e n t : \ \ a r c s e r v e r 1 \ G I S \ E A G A \ _ P r o p o s a l s \ 0 P P P 0 2 9 3 4 \ E S R I \ M a p s \ E A G A _ G r a p h i c B a s e m a p _ 1 1 X 1 7 L . m x d | D a t e S a v e d : 9 / 6 / 2 0 2 2 1 1 : 4 8 : 5 6 A M NW Central Commons Small Area Plan City of Eagan, MN Basemap September 2022 Legend TaxParcels Building_Footprints NWI Parks 0 1,000 Feet Source: MnGeo, Dakota County !I Ma p D o c u m e n t : \ \ a r c s e r v e r 1 \ G I S \ E A G A \ _ P r o p o s a l s \ 0 P P P 0 2 9 3 4 \ E S R I \ M a p s \ E A G A _ G r a p h i c B a s e m a p _ 1 1 X 1 7 L . m x d | D a t e S a v e d : 9 / 6 / 2 0 2 2 1 1 : 4 8 : 5 6 A M NW Central Commons Small Area PlanCity of Eagan, MN BasemapSeptember 2022LegendTaxParcels Building_Footprints NWI Parks 0 1,000 Feet Source: MnGeo, Dakota County !I Towerview Road Potential Potential SignalSignal park drive park drive accessaccess 7June 2023 City of Eagan, MN NORTHWEST COMMONS SMALL AREA PLAN 7 Site Analysis Fireworks and Clear Zone Use of the Park The park and community center are popular and well- maintained. The oval hosts multiple events, the splashpad is a favorite destination for young families, the bandshell is well used, and the rugby fields are busy. Notably, the Park is home to Fun Fest – the annual July 4 Celebration. The event relies, in part, on free and adjacent parking at Delta, Argosy, and Unisys sites – via the informal agreements and parking easement at the Argosy site. Fireworks for the event require a “clear zone” that is based on shell size. Today, that clear zone extends beyond the park and into the portions of the Unisys and Delta Sites. This was done without objection from the adjacent property owners as it did not impact their regular operations. This is important because as Delta and Unisys are developed, it will impact the City’s ability to operate Fun Fest in the same manner as it has in the past. Free parking may be unavailable, the clear zone may have to move, and some viewing areas may be eliminated. Market Changes The Delta and Unisys buildings have likely outlived their useful lives. With changes in the economy and in workplace real estate, the likelihood of reusing the building or developing a substantial amount of new office space is low. For the foreseeable future we anticipate most corporate tenants in the region to consolidate and reduce their footprint and need for office space. This is not to say that there will never be a demand for new workplaces. But with the uncertainties in the market and the post-covid economy still evolving, it is impossible to predict, and probably not wise to rely on large corporate relocations as an economic development strategy. Instead, we recommend establishing land use patterns that mix uses, encourage walkability, promote a prominent and connected public realm, and celebrate civic identity. Such patterns have proven to be resilient, flexible, and attractive to a variety of development types. The housing market remains strong. Eagan has added 250 new units per year over the past 10 years. As the City runs out of greenfields, its housing stock ages, and households shrink in size, it is important to replenish the City’s housing stock. Doing so will help maintain the City’s population numbers, provide choices for people as they move through different stages of life, and attract new young residents. The concept plans offer a range of housing types and tenures, ranging from “cottage clusters” to “mixed use housing” as well as a range of rental and homeownership opportunities. It is assumed that approximately 150 units of housing would be absorbed annually. The Concept Plans include a base level of commercial development that can be absorbed in 15 years: approximately 300,000 square feet (this includes the 80,000 square foot Argosy building). The majority of the base level commercial development is in three office/clinic buildings located on the Unisys site due to superior access and visibility. An additional approximately 40,000 square feet of restaurant/retail/service uses are included in each of the plans. The demand for this retail/restaurant/service uses will come, primarily, from development of units on site, activity at the park, and employees on site, and immediately adjacent neighborhoods, if well connected. In addition to the base level of commercial development, the Jobs on the Park Concept holds an approximately 13- acre site on Delta for a future corporate campus or cluster of office buildings which, depending on how parking is handled, may yield up to 300,000 square feet of office/ research/medical use. Because of the current office environment, when and whether a corporate user will commit to the site is uncertain. Ma p D o c u m e n t : \ \ a r c s e r v e r 1 \ G I S \ E A G A \ _ P r o p o s a l s \ 0 P P P 0 2 9 3 4 \ E S R I \ M a p s \ E A G A _ G r a p h i c B a s e m a p _ 1 1 X 1 7 L . m x d | D a t e S a v e d : 9 / 6 / 2 0 2 2 1 1 : 4 8 : 5 6 A M NW Central Commons Small Area PlanCity of Eagan, MN BasemapSeptember 2022LegendTaxParcels Building_Footprints NWI Parks 0 1,000 Feet Source: MnGeo, Dakota County !I Fireworks Fireworks Clear Zone Clear Zone 6”shells6”shells informal parking informal parking agreementagreement informal parking informal parking agreementagreement Viewing field Viewing field and FunFestand FunFest BACKGROUND Eagan is working with the owners of three private properties (Argosy, Delta, and Unisys) in the Central Commons area and community members to help create a plan to potentially re-envision the space for both private and public benefits and value. ABOUT THE SURVEY We surveyed the local community on how the area surrounding Eagan Central Park could be redeveloped. Common themes and trends will help in preparing concept designs for city officials and the buildings’ owners. The survey was online survey and handed out at public events. EAGAN CENTRAL COMMONS SMALL AREA PLAN SPRING ENGAGEMENT SUMMARY GOAL Gather information from the community regarding the Small Area Plan to help create a plan to potentially re-envision the space for both private and public benefits and value. OPPORTUNITY • Find common themes and trends to help prepare concept designs for city officials and the property owners. • Learn how the community and different users use the space, and gather input on future uses and opportunities. STRATEGY In coordination, City of Eagan staff including Community Development, Communications and Engagement, and the consultant, Bolton & Menk worked to create an engagement plan that would provide opportunities to engage with the broader community, and those who live, work, play, or go to school in the area. A plan was built to encompass digital and in-person engagement, along with public education, and specifically a partnership with a local STEM school to not only hear from students, but to teach them about planning processes and city functions including public works. 531 residents engaged 89% digtally 11% in-person 4 engagement events held at 2 locations 132 students engaged 17 student caregivers engaged Director of Community Development Jill Hutmacher explains to students how the City plans development BY THE NUMBERS Who do you spend time with at Eagan Central Park? What amenities do you value or use? What would make it easier for you to get to Eagan Central Park? #1 - Bike connections improvements #2 - Pedestrian connections improvements #3 - More bus stops and enhanced service #4 - Parking or vehicular improvements #5 - Closer proximity How do you get to Eagan Central Park? 13% by bike 73% by vehicle 14% by foot 18-34 years12% 35-44 years32% 45-54 years18% 55-64 years 17% 65-74 years15% 75+6% Respondents by age SURVEY RESPONDENT DEMOGRAPHICS Respondents by gender 66% women 30% men 4% did not answer Respondents by race 89% White 3% Asian 2% Black/African American 6% Other/Race Not Listed #1 - Eagan Market Fest #2 - Eagan Community Center #3 - Central Park Commons #4 - Trails #5 - Concerts #6 - Splash Pad #7 - Bandshell #8 - Fields #9 - Pickleball Courts #10 - Playground What activities would you like to do in/around Eagan Central Park in the future? 0 50 100 150 200 250 300 350 400 450 What types of private development do you believe are most appropriate for areas surrounding Eagan Central Park?* 27% dining 16% retail 13% housing *Types of private development with less than 7% of votes include healthcare, schools, offices, and light industrial. 9% childcare 11% personal services 8% jobs 4% coworkers 7% myself 1% dogs 36% friends 52% family Nature Maintain and/or expand green spaces, native plants, and trails Indoor sports complex Enhance indoor recreational space for affordable, year- round use and diversify recreation options Aquatic facility Indoor and/or outdoor pool to enhance access to aquatic classes and lessons Most common improvement suggestions See all public comments collected in the Central Commons Small Area Plan Engagement Report. The team gathered diverse voices from people who live near and use the space. New Voices • Adult surveys were available in Span- ish and Somali. • Multiple sessions were held at the ECC during afternoon and evening hours to capture a broader diversity of voices. Broad Distribution Engagement opportunities were distrib- uted through digital channels including email, social, website, local media, a fly- er, and a sign at the ECC. Opportunities were also shared with local media. Youth • School, children, and translated the survey into six languages for the stu- dents to take home to caretakers • Created a kids activity book that mir- rored the survey so we could gather and even join the information from the kids into the “adult” survey. Detail from one of the student visioning maps from the city planners’ visit to a local school Students creating their own plan for the area Surveys for kids and adults translated for inclusion INCLUSION AT THE CORE English version of the survey for kids PILOT KNOB ELEMENTARY SMALL AREA PLAN MAPS REPORT Aquatic features Water features were extremely popular with 73% of students including at least one on their map. 43% included splash pads, 33% included lakes or ponds, and 27% included a pool. Happy trails! 67% of students would like to see more trails throughout the park that could be used for biking, walking, and roller skating. Recently, third and fourth grade students at Pilot Knob Elementary got hands-on experience envisioning a space they would like to use in the future at Central Park. Check out a snapshot of their ideas! Most votes: dining options 80% of students would like to have dining options in the park. Suggestions include ice cream, food trucks, pizza, a cultural restaurant, and McDonald’s. Popular amenities Top Three Features 47% gyms and courts 33% parks 33% gazebos 53% shopping Kid’s choice Many students had additional ideas! Below are the most common: Dog park Bus stops Parking Library/ reading space Picnic area Bathrooms 6/6/23, 2:46 PM Polco https://polco.us/n/admin/content/f34ac66b-c638-4f67-a2e2-8a5ce6019988/report 1/33 Central Commons Small Area Plan Survey Survey Results FINAL 06/06/2023 6/6/23, 2:46 PM Polco https://polco.us/n/admin/content/f34ac66b-c638-4f67-a2e2-8a5ce6019988/report 2/33 Do you live or work in Eagan? Live 61% (332) Work 4% (20) Both 31% (169) Neither 4% (20) Which zip code do you live in? 55121 20% (108) 55122 35% (187) 55123 39% (211) Other: (please specify)6% (32) 6/6/23, 2:46 PM Polco https://polco.us/n/admin/content/f34ac66b-c638-4f67-a2e2-8a5ce6019988/report 3/33 If you answered "Other" in the previous question, please list your answer below. 55068 55077 55120 55068 55068 55068 55124 55077 55068 55118 55044 55077 55337 55124 55044 55306 55337 55068 55024 55424 55118 55120 55044 55107 55124 55124 55120 55077 55437 55077 55076 55124 6/6/23, 2:46 PM Polco https://polco.us/n/admin/content/f34ac66b-c638-4f67-a2e2-8a5ce6019988/report 4/33 If you live in Eagan, do you rent or own your home? Rent 9% (50) Own 84% (448) N/A 7% (35) Are you: Employed 74% (394) Retired 24% (126) Not Employed 2% (13) In what time of year do you use Eagan Central Park? (Circle all that apply) Spring 70% (374) Summer 95% (510) Fall 72% (386) Winter 33% (174) None of these/Never 3% (16) 6/6/23, 2:46 PM Polco https://polco.us/n/admin/content/f34ac66b-c638-4f67-a2e2-8a5ce6019988/report 5/33 How do you get to Eagan Central Park? (Circle all that apply) Car 94% (503) Foot 18% (96) Bike 16% (87) Bus 0% (1) 6/6/23, 2:46 PM Polco https://polco.us/n/admin/content/f34ac66b-c638-4f67-a2e2-8a5ce6019988/report 6/33 What would make it easier for you to get to Eagan Central Park by foot , bike, or bus? inter-city bikeways/regional trails Nothing I sometimes run by it , but it doesn't really have any great amenities for me if I am on a run long enough to go over there. If there were year-round bathrooms and drinking fountains I would put it on my winter route. We’re disabled so waking, biking and bus-riding really aren’t options. nothing. i live SE Eagan NA None Moving closer Drop 40 years from my age. Clear sidewalks Nothing- I could, but 3.5 miles from my home I am mobility challenged, so more Darts availability. Probably not possible Bus Fewer hills, 🤣. I would not be able to ride my bike there even with a bike path. Everything is a short car ride for me. Better disabled access. I use a power scooter. Dedicated trails More time in my day ;) Don't set up the taxpayers to start paying for transportation to the Park. We have roads, people can find their own way to the Park. distance na A bus stop on Cliff Rd between Lexington and Dodd. Currently, my closest bus stop is 2 miles away, so it's not practical for me to ever take a bus, which is really a shame. If there was a convenient option, I would always choose bus over driving. paths in my neighborhood (theres some paths by the park but they end before my house) More frequent local bus service between my neighborhood (across the street from the Outlet mall) to Central Park Commons shopping area and/or Eagan Community Center N/a Current footpaths are adequate. Parking is ample. A bus from Blackhawk Park and Ride would be interesting Bike trails Trails Muti use paved trails between Cedar Grove area and Central Park Nothing knowing bus routes I do not foresee that I would ever go there if I could not drive my car. Knowing the bus schedule 6/6/23, 2:46 PM Polco https://polco.us/n/admin/content/f34ac66b-c638-4f67-a2e2-8a5ce6019988/report 7/33 Better riding paths for biking along Pilot Knob Road. I live in King Wood and the intersections to the park scare me because people charge through the stop lights and do not watch where they are going! I could travel that way if I chose to, but I live just far enough away that we prefer to travel there by car and then do our exercise once we arrive. Better bus routes in eagan Not sure Paths Frequent , low cost , reliable public transportation Move it closer to our house. People will always need cars to get from one place to another. Don’t tale away car lanes for bike paths that are not functional in all seasons/weather. Safer bike street crossings would make it easier to get to Central Park. Maybe pedestrian and bike bridges over busy roadways. N/A Plow trails more quickly in winter, ensure maintenance vehicles not parked on trails Safe pedestrian and bike crossings. A more useful local city bus route in general! It’s easy enough Bike Safer roads. More sidewalks. N/A We are on the very southeast corner of Eagan; probably nothing would entice an different mode of transportation due to the distance. Bike Older children that can take the bus, walk longer, and safely bike there. Unsure Dedicated bike trail Bike Bus stop near home More bus routes, more bike/foot paths that go over the intersections would need less car traffic for foot or bike. For bus would need better bus routes. right now it would take 1.5 hours to take a bus from my office in Eagan to Eagan Central Park. It takes me 12 min by car currently. an electric bike I live too far to walk or bike to Central Park. Plow city sidewalks Better bike lanes if biking and more parking if driving All season walking path maintenance. Traffic signal support for crosswalks. Leash law enforcement . Motorized, bike, and foot police patrols. More parking for festivals Better walking paths east of the center Trail access from Towerview Rd. to the park. Bus None of those options An actual bus 6/6/23, 2:46 PM Polco https://polco.us/n/admin/content/f34ac66b-c638-4f67-a2e2-8a5ce6019988/report 8/33 people leashing their dogs Bike More sidewalks or trailways from the east side of Eagan over I35. Yes, more bike paths connected to each other is needed in Eagan If it was closer or if there were regular buses especially for events that picked people up all over Eagan. neither Bike None Living closer. Fewer hills from the east side of the city. lol Nothing, it is a time thing that we use a car. Car is fastest and easiest . New bus route An actual bus line in Eagan along pilot knob More bike paths from other parts of Eagan. Think like how would someone from each elementary school get to Central Park safely. More bike lanes or trails through town. NA more of a focus on bike lanes/paths and safety with city roads Bus service on Pilot Knob Road south of park Safe, accessible bike paths from Cedar Grove area. Not interested in any of these. My car works best for me. Car in the winter. Bike otherwise. better off-street bike lanes to navigate Yankee Doodle might get me to consider biking someday. Living closer to it Biking in Eagan is terrible! Bus If there was more to do there Bike Bike route n/a Plowed sidewalks in the winter. Not sure Safety, not sharing a path with motor vehicles, not having to walk in the street because paths aren’t safe or snow cleared. Control the no leash dogs and the bags le for someone to pick up. Repair the perimeter road. I don't bike - too dangerous, I can't walk there - too far. Bus would be an option if routes were available Better bike trails throughout Eagan, rather than having to use sidewalks on busy roads. Living closer More pedestrian friendly paths (bike lanes, etx). Lots of traffic on both Pilot Knob and Yankee Doodle making for dangerous conditions Bike lanes N/A Bike lanes that made me feel safe 6/6/23, 2:46 PM Polco https://polco.us/n/admin/content/f34ac66b-c638-4f67-a2e2-8a5ce6019988/report 9/33 sidewalks along Lone Oak between Pilot Knob and Hwy 13 Wouldn’t be easier Better bike paths by county road 13 Safer intersections for non-vehicles Sidewalks cleaned of snow and ice. Pedestrian Bridge over Yankee Doodle I would bike if my kids were older. Better/safer sidewalk options i would never walk, bike or take the bus to get there By car, had hip replaced so can’t bike, too far to walk back and no bus to get there Bike lanes on the streets. A safer way to travel there. Better bus routes that are more direct . Wouldn't mind biking but that would be about a 9-mile ride (or more) and I'm not sure of the routes. A walking & biking trail system requiring zero encounters with traffic or crossing via roadways. bus that actually went up Dodd. Bike paths I’m a senior citizen and driving is my only transportation method Live in a different area (it's 65 mph in front of my house) n/a Better parking Nothing. Distance/proximity to home, in-town bus routes Trails and paths protected from traffic by bollards and other elements designed to slow traffic. bus Nothing. Car is the only thing that would work for us. We live off Mallard Drive. Very broad bus schedules More pedestrians friendly paths and bridges Additional bike lanes Walking/bike paths or trails. Better bus lines. Nothing Bike (connected bike path system throughout Eagan) paths that don't require crossing busy intersections and stoplights Additional safe crossings on Yankee Doodle road Bike lanes Direct path/trail from neighboring residential areas to the park. We currently cut through the delta parking lot to get to the park Nothing Nothing- could easily also walk or bike Foot Bus Owning a bike I wouldn't go a way other than car. 6/6/23, 2:46 PM Polco https://polco.us/n/admin/content/f34ac66b-c638-4f67-a2e2-8a5ce6019988/report 10/33 Bike trails Trails /sidewalk paths with less traffic Bus service would be nice if available. By car is fine. By foot or bike is now out of the question due to my age (72) & handicap disability. It would be nice if there were more handicap parking spaces available. I’m fortunate to walk there. Regular bus, Central Park is too far to walk or bike I live on lone oak rd it's a wonderful walk on the trail that’s in back of the school. through the wild flower nature area or down past the Delta builds to the community center. It is a wonderful peaceful walk. I also see a lot of walkers through there.. Deltas parking lot is empty. Please rip down the parking lot a put up more paradise. No more retail. I would not walk to the community center or beyond that like to Aldi’s if that would happen. none of the above Map promoting interconnected bike trails I live in the Alden Pond Townhomes. In the winter, some of the paths don't get plowed - particularly the one that goes from Coachman east towards the Delta parking lot would make it helpful. Not that you are asking, but I love in the summer how there are paths that are mowed in at the top of the hill between Unisys, Delta and the city property - it makes it really easy and convenient to be able to enjoy the prairie and sumac that grows on that hill. Better pedestrian route on Yankee Doodle/easy alternate way to get there. Also more thorough snow clearing of sidewalks in the winter more and better trail connections coming from northeast eagan Maybe a bike path that didn’t include Yankee Doodle. We go to Eagan Central Park with our young children, so driving is the best option for us Nothing More bike paths and sidewalks None of the above. Better trail crossings of I-494, access to Big rivers Regional Trail more parking, and possibly a bridge going over pilot knob near olive garden Nothing I have no problem getting there. bus stop in neighborhood Bus Parking The intersection of Pilot Knob and Central Parkway is dangerous to cross. I more dedicated crossing, or pedestrian bridge would be helpful. shovel walkways through Quarry Park so that I can walk there in the winter. Na Convenient/closer bus stop to my residence. Well kept roadways bike Not sure Nothing, the location is quite accessible A pedestrian bridge across Yankee Doodle. Elevated crosswalk over pilot knob 6/6/23, 2:46 PM Polco https://polco.us/n/admin/content/f34ac66b-c638-4f67-a2e2-8a5ce6019988/report 11/33 Having to cross less busy roads I have to cross both Yankee Doodle and Pilot Knob, both of which have very small pedestrian areas. More stops, better sidewalks Better designated bike lanes/paths along pilot knob or neighboring n/s road (ie not shared with pedestrian sidewalks), more bike racks A direct bus route between my home and the park. A “Circulator” bus maybe. Too far to walk, too hilly to ride a bike. Easy trail access I wouldn't walk, bike or bus. Safer bike access Less stoplights (yes, I know you asked about non-car options but I will never use a non-car option) We live by Lebanon Hills, so biking through the stoplights to cross the city with our kids is too risky. Extra buses on market days in the summer I get there just fine. Foot I could bike on the existing trails given the particular situation. I don’t know the bus route I would take but a dedicated shuttle would be nice NA None Bike Already accessible foot A reason to go there Bus na Better laid out bike paths other than sidewalks Dedicated bike routes from the surrounding neighborhoods including south of Yankee Doodle and pilot knob it is ok as is Bike Bus Foot . Keep this area clear of any more rental housing. Dedicated bike infrastructure, more narrow, safer streets Bus Bike lanes in more places, ways to avoid big intersections by foot Increased number of dedicated bike lanes. Bike path It's five minutes away by car. Taking a bus would be ridiculous. I can't haul all of the vegetables on foot on by bike. Please drop your fixation with getting rid of cars. Make an easier crossings at Yankee Doodle & Pilot Knob; Yankee Doodle & Federal Dr/Central Parkway; 4-way stop at Central Parkway & Towerview Car, and why didn't put that in as an option. cleared neighborhood sidewalks, too dangerous to walk/bike in the streets to get to the main roads where the city does maintain sidewalks no rules 6/6/23, 2:46 PM Polco https://polco.us/n/admin/content/f34ac66b-c638-4f67-a2e2-8a5ce6019988/report 12/33 around requiring cleared sidewalks Bike bike lanes. I don’t want to be on the ride with my bike. A paved trail thru the office bldgs property. bike I think it's already easy. None No Live in Oslund neighborhood. An all paved path could be great . Would like to see this kept as lots of people in the neighborhood utilize this. Please don’t cut off our access. I prefer not to take Lone Oak to Pilot Knob with kids on a busy street . Trail connections through delta property N/A Sidewalks on Lone Oak Rd car Trail access to avoid Yankee Doodle and Central Parkway Sidewalks being cleared of snow faster Keeping the sidewalks plowed in winter Nothing, I live nearby. easier East to West travel in Eagan If they didn’t develop the delta land and bring in more traffics or buildings to navigate around A desire to take a bus I guess. I don’t mind driving. Bike lanes or bike paths Bus or bike would be fun! bike Car Na Bike Trails. Looping Bus Route around the city, bus that holds a bike. More bike -friendly lanes along Duckwood Dr/Federal Dr, Northwood Pwky and Denmark Ave. More trails connected trails/ overpasses Pilot Knob and Yankee Doodle are very busy Car for now. Bus in a few years. Make it easier to cross Yankee Doodle bike paths & bike/pedestrian-friendly crossings Bike trail Bus Na More shade on the paths would be nice More well-lit sidewalks and crosswalks leading to Central Park More consistent bus routes nothing else More bike paths around the city More bike paths and designated bike lanes around Eagan. Car 6/6/23, 2:46 PM Polco https://polco.us/n/admin/content/f34ac66b-c638-4f67-a2e2-8a5ce6019988/report 13/33 A younger body! It's really too far for me to go by foot or bike. I don't think there is any bus service that would work for me! Its already easy, I live across the street bike lane I would not travel by public transit . Pedestrian bridge over pilot knob? Too scary to walk across with kids. Too busy of an area with bikes with kids. Unsure Not willing to do so. Nothing - we choose to drive but could certainly bike safely on sidewalks from our home to the park. More paths More bike/walking paths to get there and ways to bypass major intersections (I.e. Pilot Knob and Yankee Doodle) Safe trails and crossings Bike Bike Not sure More Trails It's easy for me Warp zone living closer Clear sidewalks during winter Nothing really. Too far to walk into many hills to bike. Better connectivity of ped/bike. Need better crossing at Hwy 3 / Cliff Road Bike Better roads and less stoplights More bike paths connecting Pilot Knob North (right near proposed site) to central park commons Bike paths Maybe bike paths that would safely get me along and across Yankee Doodle Have no problems getting there N/A Improve the intersection at Pilot Knob with better/larger/more attention grabbing signage and lighting for pedestrians, beefier medians on PK for pedestrians to safely standing out of traffic if for some reason they are not able to fully cross for a moment . But realistically I live too far away (near EHS) to be interested in walking or biking to that area. Busing is just not something that would ever cross my mind with timing and location of bus stops. More bus routes Foot Already easy proximity to our house is a bit far of a distance to walk or bike and bus routes are inconvenient to our house location N/A Express bus to Central Park, especially during Fun Fest 6/6/23, 2:46 PM Polco https://polco.us/n/admin/content/f34ac66b-c638-4f67-a2e2-8a5ce6019988/report 14/33 N/A. We can already cut through our back yard to the delta parking lot and walk to Central Park. Paved paths through Alden pond association instead of having to go around and through quarry Park Being closer live closer Bike Path By foot BIke Trails plowed Large parking facility nearby to park my car then walk, up to 1/2 mile, to central park. Foot Bike path I have a great foot path Bike paths along major corridors Design parking for cars and street layout in a sensible manner, like the commons by Hy-Vee. Move it closer to our house. We will always have to drive unless we move. It'd have to be on all bus services None Being closer to actual homes Bike paths safe for kids (ie not street riding) Knowledge of bus stops and routes (new to state) Bike trails, walking trails less traffic on Pilot Knob Rd Bike more walking/bike paths. In order to use these in the winter, they need to be plowed It's easy enough repair the roads Nothing really, Eagan does a great job with sidewalks and paths! more bike lanes foot nothing better bike paths it's pretty easy :) more designated/paved bike trails bike trail 6/6/23, 2:46 PM Polco https://polco.us/n/admin/content/f34ac66b-c638-4f67-a2e2-8a5ce6019988/report 15/33 Who do you spend time with in Eagan Central Park? (Circle all that apply) Family 87% (461) Friends 59% (315) Coworkers 6% (34) No one 12% (66) Other: (please specify)5% (24) 6/6/23, 2:46 PM Polco https://polco.us/n/admin/content/f34ac66b-c638-4f67-a2e2-8a5ce6019988/report 16/33 If you answered "Other" in the previous question, please list your answer below. My dog 50+ Senior activities Residents and visitors to the park. ECC personell, Trainers American legion color guard my dog I don't use Eagan Central Park My dog I sometimes bring my dog. And yes, I do pick up aer him. I really dislike it when people don't . They're the ones that spoil it for the rest of us . I moved to Eagan in 1983 from the Michigan, Detriot Metro Area. No family here in MN. I have only 3 sisters & a few surviving cousins le (all back in Michigan). My wife & 3yr old son died as the result of a horrific car accident in Illinois in 1983. I never remarried. Garden club, farmers market and Eagan festivities I occasionally attend classes or events at the community center The Eagan community in general when attending Market Fest . Local DFL Classes if parking was better Students Dog Nature Gym Dogs Teammates Eagan Seniors group Farmers market and other events through out the year. Self People I meet at classes and at the senior center 6/6/23, 2:46 PM Polco https://polco.us/n/admin/content/f34ac66b-c638-4f67-a2e2-8a5ce6019988/report 17/33 Which of these amenities in the area do you use or value? (Circle all that apply) Central Park Commons (local businesses, including retail, food and clothing)68% (360) Bandshell 38% (202) Concerts 42% (221) Fields 24% (129) Eagan Market Fest 84% (445) Pickleball courts 17% (91) The Eagan Community Center 72% (385) Trails 63% (336) Splash pad 40% (213) Other: (please specify)8% (44) 6/6/23, 2:46 PM Polco https://polco.us/n/admin/content/f34ac66b-c638-4f67-a2e2-8a5ce6019988/report 18/33 If you answered "Other" in the previous question, please list your answer below. Events playgrounds, restrooms, trash EV Charging Funfest , Food Truck Festival Art festival and fourth of july Central Park Commons is a tragic missed opportunity to create a walkable retail and dining space. (West End in St . Louis Park, Woodbury Lakes in Woodbury, Village at Mendota Heights.) Central Park Commons is just a suburban retail mess, with confusing traffic patterns, dangerous intersections, and no walkability. Whatever you do, please do not make those mistakes again. Playground and workout equipment Playground Playground Central Park Pavilion Track, Weight room, Lone Oak Room, The Oaks, Performance Studio Arts and cras shows playground and wood fitness course Food Truck Festival I don't use Eagan Central Park Playground Indoor ice rink. Indoor pool. Indoor large walking track. Indoor field house. Fourth of July activities Park and outdoor exercise equipment Shelters Playground Playground Picnic areas, koi pond Playground/workout area Exercise pieces, play equipment for kids We also frequent the playground next to the bandshell workout equipment outdoors playground The Blast Playground 4th of July, Food Truck Festival I run and walk alone or with my family. It’s quiet as is. It’s the only buffer area between where we live and the noise of the new area of hyvee etc. Oslund Timberline resident Food Truck Festival 4th of July, Food Truck Fair Proximity to grocery stores, transportation, and health care Playground!!!!!!! Special events such as art shows or senior activities, fireworks, bingo, 6/6/23, 2:46 PM Polco https://polco.us/n/admin/content/f34ac66b-c638-4f67-a2e2-8a5ce6019988/report 19/33 Eagan Fest Playground Exercise Classes, Retirement info meetings, Driver class, or other special events. Need larger area for exercise classes!! Dog park, ice skating rink (like Central Park in Edina) Pickleball courts - w/o membership required Cert small business Fun Fest Hockey rinks 6/6/23, 2:46 PM Polco https://polco.us/n/admin/content/f34ac66b-c638-4f67-a2e2-8a5ce6019988/report 20/33 What activities would you like to do in/around Eagan Central Park in the future? (Circle all that apply) Walking 78% (408) Running 22% (118) Biking 41% (214) Playing 44% (230) Socializing 66% (348) Eating/Drinking 70% (370) Skating 27% (141) Skiing 13% (70) Living 17% (87) Working 10% (50) Creating 21% (108) Reading 30% (158) Selling 4% (23) Learning and/or Teaching 26% (135) Other: (please specify)13% (69) 6/6/23, 2:46 PM Polco https://polco.us/n/admin/content/f34ac66b-c638-4f67-a2e2-8a5ce6019988/report 21/33 If you answered "Other" in the previous question, please list your answer below. Swimming Farmers market , flea market and cra sales Would love outdoor yoga/stretching classes in the summer. It would be nice if the Community Center hosted book groups you could sign up for (especially fall-through-spring) on evenings or weekends and or/readings by local authors/poets. Looking at beautiful things - nature and art . Native trees, etc Sports dome and turf fields for soccer and lacrosse continue fitness classes at Eagan community center Community swimming pool I want to see an Eagan sports complex where we can host multiple sports and tournaments - hockey, basketball, baseball dome, volleyball, etc. Birdwatching, astronomy Arts and cras evrnts Yoga class Boutique restaurants high end I don't plan to use Eagan Central Park. It 's a waste of my tax dollars to spend more on it . swimming in a community swimming pool (indoor, not like the cascade bay site) Swimming pool! Basketball Swimming and Aqua exercise Indoor Pickleball (on a Tennis court surface) Indoor sports dome, for additional indoor activity space that Eagan is limited in Sledding Sports Pickle ball outdoor courts, outdoor dining area Various support groups meeting place. Swimming Swimming Swimming We go to the Eagan Commuinity Center for exercise and/or senior activities several times a week. We love the ECC and Eagan Central Park. I drove through once. Best use might involve apartment owners support a free little mvta bus picking up residents and kids onsite one day a week. Eagan desperately needs more indoor recreational space, similar to Hope Fieldhouse Using my electric scooter Industrial buildings should be re -purposed for indoor field turf. Eagan has no indoor turf space during the winter for sports. This would be a great area to create some field space for youth sports. If we could utilize this area for multi purpose indoor and outdoor field space we could find a lot of use for this all year round. As someone on the EAA 6/6/23, 2:46 PM Polco https://polco.us/n/admin/content/f34ac66b-c638-4f67-a2e2-8a5ce6019988/report 22/33 board, we have a constant need for fields and courts as the demand for youth sports grows each year. Basketball tournaments with more basketball courts for our youth players. Outdoor exercise classes - example yoga class Swimming ! more outdoor concerts with food available Racquetball (please!!!), indoor swimming pool would also be really nice Steve kids activities Have an Olympic indoor pool Enjoying natural habitat Family activities Gardening, Native Plantings Indoor lap pool Swimming if there was a pool, especially dedicated swimlane/lap pool for the best inclusive exercise for people regardless of physical ability/age. Youth Sports I think this would be a good location for a shelter for the housing insecure. Dakota County needs more shelters, and this space could be used, plus it is close in proximity to healthcare, grocery stores, transportation, and other amenities. I think this would be a fantastic location for a shelter for the housing insecure. It is close to grocery stores, healthcare, public transportation, and other amenities. I think this space should be used in this manner instead of the neighborhood/residential space near Mt . Calvary church. Dakota county needs more shelters for the housing insecure and this is a perfect opportunity. Sports dome!! Sports Facility like in Woodbury. M Fairview, with sports fields, hockey rinks, indoor turf and meeting facilities. Sports Dome Swimming celebrating community Swimming. We need an indoor community center pool like inver grove heights. Something for kids to do in the winter and option for swimming lessons through community education. Sports dome as well. Again to keep kids and families active during the colder months and help keep kids out of trouble. To have an outlet . Swimming More sports like basketball, volleyball, ice hockey, etc Sports complex with fields, courts and ice for sports practices and hosting tournaments (get a corporate sponsor and name it aer them) Racquetball!!!!!! Swimming!!!!! Community Pool Sports dome! Something that can accomodate more than just hockey. I get hockey is popular, but it is also not a very financially accessible sport . Soccer, baseball/soball, track n field, etc are all much more affordable sports. Tennis, pickleball, cricket , etc. All of these could use more indoor space for recreation during the colder months. Affordable, accessible to indoor recreation space in the winter - 100% top of my list for opportunities missing in Eagan. Especially for teams/groups to utilize together. Yes I can go to the YMCA or Lifetime as an individual or family, but if I want to pull 6/6/23, 2:46 PM Polco https://polco.us/n/admin/content/f34ac66b-c638-4f67-a2e2-8a5ce6019988/report 23/33 together a pick up game of soccer with friends or an indoor workout for my kids baseball team, that currently requires me to go to Savage Dome, The Cages in Burnsville, Rosemount Dome (before collapse), etc. Disc-golf, Pickleball Sports Dome Year-round art and entertainment performances Sports Dome Businesses and homes can use the space for recreation / exercise during the day. Don't see value in shops and restaurants near open spaces. bring more people into area to foster and create community Woods/forest trail areas, more trees green space selling- flea markets, separate indoor pickleball facility What types of private development do you believe are most appropriate for areas surrounding Eagan Central Park? (Circle all that apply) Housing 37% (188) Jobs 23% (115) Healthcare 20% (102) Retail 44% (225) Dining 64% (328) Light industrial 6% (31) Childcare 26% (133) Personal services 31% (157) Offices 16% (82) Schools 17% (89) Other: (please specify)28% (143) 6/6/23, 2:46 PM Polco https://polco.us/n/admin/content/f34ac66b-c638-4f67-a2e2-8a5ce6019988/report 24/33 What value do you see in having private development (homes, businesses, shops, and restaurants) connected to public spaces (parks, green spaces, and trails)? None, the city should maintain the property. Eagan has an opportunity to hold land, they should do it . don't take a short term approach. More outdoor activities It's a City Park. People live, work, shop and play in the area. This is a stupid question that leads to potential government spending. Create a sense of community, having lots of things to do all in once place that is easy to get to. Business incubator, even as lowly as something like Midtown Global Market (developed restaurants and small immigrant shops), but MUST have incentives and support to be an incubator, reduced rents, help with grants, managed well, marketed well. Adapt to the new WFH culture for white collar workers. Maybe a curling center? Cant go wrong with more ice sheets in the state esp with the warmer winters. Embrace the proximity to MSP for business or leisure travel. Make it a Carbon Neutral space, be a leader nationally. Find green industry to go into part of the space. Groomed ski trails in the winter bike in the summer (offer rentals, lessons, warming house) I think a concentration of services nearby can drive traffic to the park/green spaces. Anything but a million high rises please! Maintain our view Ice rink None Non-franchise or chain retail/dining we have enough of the boring same old same old retail and dining. We need something special A sports dome like rosemount Walkability Green space! I don't feel like Eagan needs more retail, but buildings that have retail on the ground level and apartments above could serve to provide jobs and housing and be an efficient use of land space. I see no value in having a private development of homes, offices, retail, and restaurants connected to public park space. Having attractions, museums, exhibits, theaters, nature center would be a great value. Like Balboa Park in San Diego. Unsure. I am aware that the county is looking to build a shelter and wonder if any of this space would be a good option. Keep it green space. Would be nice to have an indoor pool!! This could be part of the Eagan Community Center membership. Would be great to access pool all year around and it’s an accessible exercise for all ages. Could also do a habitat sanctuary for native species/plants. If childcare was subsidized by Eagan, that would be fantastic! Easy to walk to The existing structures appear suited for re -use. Higher density housing in the area could provide workers within walking distance to the sites. Preservation of green space in the survey area and the Thomson Reuters site should be considered as open land continues to decline in the area. Indoor sheet of ice, unique non-chain restaurant , and green space 6/6/23, 2:46 PM Polco https://polco.us/n/admin/content/f34ac66b-c638-4f67-a2e2-8a5ce6019988/report 25/33 Don't want more private development in that area. Please keep it as a nature trail I’m in favor of more housing but it’s important to keep in mind that most people coming to Eagan events have to drive. There absolutely needs to be parking permanently around the community center. Privatization of the land could keep a lot of people from being able come to events. (For Fun fest , market fest we always have to park at argosy or unisys) I think it should be purposeful intersection. The private development should be centered around recreation vs retail and restaurants. Affordable space that people can spend especially winter months creating, exercising, child development , learning, etc. Keep the greenspace or develop only for public good. Eagan lacks space to support youth athletic programming. Eagan NEEDS a space that offers additional gym rentals to support its Eagan Athletics Associations and middle and high school programming for youth sports from ages 5-18. When your high school programs can’t practice in their own gyms bc of lack of space and sharing with other programs it’s time to do something. This could also serve as additional space like ECC open gym or have designated community programming. Indoor Pickleball. Sports Dome Kids sporting space A Spanish immersion public school! 100% - this specific part of Eagan feels congested, over-developed - saturated! Where other areas of Eagan are lacking basic amenities. I would love more community space, like an indoor pool for lessons and play. Ymca and lifetime are very expensive. I hesitate to recommend housing as an option unless parking issues are addressed. I’ve seen an earlier proposal online for high density housing and worry about the loss of parking if the development is approved as originally proposed. More trails and green spaces Turfed sports fields or a dome or a fieldhouse None. Eagan Central park should remain city owned and controlled. Once you start putting private entities around it the park becomes less accessible NOTHING commercial or industrial should be permitted. Access should be available to everyone in the public. Another pool, outdoor skate rink for roller skating/blading There is enough development in the area.. leave this green space as is, unless you plan to increase the community center itself. ie: add indoor pool, increase meeting/rental space Not much unless it is helping the youth at low or no cost for single parent families or services for families that need help. Gyms, Fitness, Retail that support wellbeing and the values that align with bringing people together for the use amenities of the park and community center. Perhaps expand the community center or separate space for indoor pool and larger gym. Would love to see more walking trails in or around that space or to maintain the current structure of pathways near these business. Less retail on this side to provide buffer to homes nearby for privacy. Keep the green space please!! That is super important to us. Pickleball courts 6/6/23, 2:46 PM Polco https://polco.us/n/admin/content/f34ac66b-c638-4f67-a2e2-8a5ce6019988/report 26/33 Drives people to use those amenities Public work spaces for remote workers None of the above. Leave it alone. We have so little green space the way it is. Eagan to supposed to be the city of trees and that’s disappearing quickly. Definitely not housing. None. That area is already packed. Please keep Central Park areas as is. Indoor recreational space like Hope Fieldhouse I value keeping green space more than more businesses or buildings. It would be nice if there truly was "affordable" housing here in Eagan for seniors. As I've watched the city grow since 1983, it has assumed a statis (like an Edina, Minnetonka etc.) and thus rental for homes, townhomes etc has skyrocketed here. I'm not a fan of apartments/apartment buildings. In 1983 I was paying $180/m for a good size 3 bedroom ranch home back in Canton, MI. (SW suburb of Detroit). When I moved here to Eagan in May of 1983, I was paying $483/m for my 1st 3 bedroom townhome (Woodgate Pt). I'm now in my 2nd townhome (Jan Echo Trl) in generally the same area. (Diffley, Rahn Rd, Cliff Rd & Johnny Cake Ridge Rd for the last 22 yrs) which is a 2 bedroom + lo, less sq. . (from 1500 to 1224) which I'm now paying $1550/m. Living on SS, & 72 1/2 I still have to work PT to make do. I do have everything I need close by where I'm at & will drive to the other side of town (Town Ctr area etc) once or twice a month for my other needs. Again some sort of affordable housing would be nice that is also close to the shopping hubs, but everything that has been built is not affordable compared to what I presently have. Some sort of shuttle or bus service between shopping centers would also be nice. Green space . There is a golden opportunity to extend a great green space with native plantings and trails. I don’t have a dog but alot of my neighbors do. So a dog park would probably go over big also. None - I have received surveys recently from the city on environmental issues and I think it's important to recognize that looking to development is short sighted. What has and will continue to make Eagan the amazing place it is to live (I've lived here almost 40 years) is the green spaces. I recognize that the Delta and Unisys buildings are pretty much vacant and financially that might be a burden for the city, but hopefully we can come up with a plan that increases green space, allows the wildlife that's in this area to flourish and keep Eagan green. I would strongly oppose more restaurants/shopping in that area. We have a beautiful and prosperous city, I think it's time we invest in the future and start buying up vacant lands to preserve them. It would be great to have more small businesses owned within our community. I would love to bike around, grab coffee, have a picnic, enjoy the farmers market and music, make a day of it . For instance a Burnsville heart of the city there is a performance space, splash pad and a few restaurants and shops all in the same area. You park once and can spend a lot of time there. It feels like a community. I'm not biking to go to an olive garden. I want a more local experience than is currently available at central commons We need more green space with native plants and trees. We need this space available for people to relax and connect with nature. A learning center would be great here as there is a high concentration of visitors. How about partnering with The Nature Conservancy for this space? As I mentioned in question 14, this is a great opportunity for an athletic complex for youth sports. Retaining adequate green space should be a priority versus over development . We already have numerous empty commercial buildings throughout out Eagan and more seem to be built continually. Let 's focus on 6/6/23, 2:46 PM Polco https://polco.us/n/admin/content/f34ac66b-c638-4f67-a2e2-8a5ce6019988/report 27/33 small business growth and developing a real downtown/community for Eagan's future. single family housing More recreational facilities Keep it green with rugby fields and festival grounds None! Green space! Public art park! Definitely NO MORE BIG BOX STORES! Focus on local businesses! Expand community center to include larger play area for kids and swimming pool. For family friendly activities. We don’t need anymore retail especially grocery stores. Encourages more biking/walking; encourages getting outside I’d like to preserve the green space and not have additional development . All that at Central Park Commons is plenty. A field house with indoor space for soccer, baseball, soball and track would be wonderful. So many of our youth teams have to go outside of the city (to Savage and West St Paul for example) to get field time. It would be a huge win to keep our sports (and money) within the city limits. None. Leave as much green park and nature as possible It would be great to see Eagan build a sports dome like the one in Rosemount . None One level townhomes for seniors. Keep it green space -I miss the wildlife that was present before Central Park commons. A great deal of value. We need to get people more active and outdoors more! If the Community Center and Park are to prosper, more parking should be available. Otherwise the Vikings will take over events.! Activities to get teenagers off their devices and address the teenage obesity problem. How about a skateboard park like Des Moines has. Please see https://dsmskatepark.com/. We visited Des Moines 2 years ago. Their world class skate park is the cool place for teens to be seen and socialize. If we do something like that , it's ESSENTIAL that safe bike and pedestrian crossings across Pilot Knob and Yankee Doodle be established. How about some walkway sky bridges? A garden. Perhaps a wildflower garden, community garden or other space featuring natural wonders! I would like to see more trails around. No, i believe we need more community rooms for the different ethnicities in the city. And for our Youth, I don’t think Eagan is reaching out to them much. What happen to the Oasis? ECC has a lot of activities tailored for elder lies.. how about young middle schoolers activities??? Eagan doesn’t need anymore retail or chains. Make this a green area and don’t contest it . You’re probably catching on to where I stand about this change. I think a great place that attracts different types of people encourages future development and interest . Indoor lap pool Very obvious that you are shooting for the 15-minute city model. Not interested. I go there for recreation and events. I would like to see green space and small boutiques, coffee haus. We have a gem right here in Eagan called VENDELLA and would like to see more of 6/6/23, 2:46 PM Polco https://polco.us/n/admin/content/f34ac66b-c638-4f67-a2e2-8a5ce6019988/report 28/33 that . Please, no more housing. With the high density housing built recently, Northern Eagan is overcrowded. Please. Get families active together. I’d love to see a sports complex where kids and adults can enjoy sports and activities, especially soccer because it’s an international sport that interests people from all cultures, abilities and it’s easy enough for new people to participate. Having quick eat type places and green space will allow families to spend the whole day together all in one area. Parks, green space, and trails. Build it up like Centennial Lakes in Edina! Having water/pond with non motorized recreation and walking/biking trails would make Eagan very unique to most suburbs. I believe this space should be used to fill the need for homeless shelter in Dakota County. It is necessary for Dakota County to provide more shelter and this location would be close to amenities the homeless population would need. Sports facilities Expand the parks, reduce the concrete in and around the area when possible. I don't want more dense housing, more green space with additional trails would be great . I don’t want to see it overdeveloped-keep the green space. We already have sufficient businesses in that area. I think this would be a good location for a shelter for the housing insecure. Dakota County needs more shelters, and this space could be used, plus it is close in proximity to healthcare, grocery stores, transportation, and other amenities. I see the value in having a shelter in this space because of its closeness to various amenities. I think this would be a fantastic location for a shelter for the housing insecure. It is close to grocery stores, healthcare, public transportation, and other amenities. I think this space should be used in this manner instead of the neighborhood/residential space near Mt . Calvary church. Dakota county needs more shelters for the housing insecure and this is a perfect opportunity. Expansive sports facility with access to restaurants. Last week the governor said that we are investing in semiconductor manufacturing. That Unisys building was originally built for semiconductor manufacturing. It has a 30+ story deep anti vibration chamber. This could be a valuable asset . Outdoor space Sports dome Dining but at some more like ma&pa places instead of big chain restaurants Sports dome Year round recreation (pool/water park similar to The Grove) It'd be a great place to put a shelter for adults suffering from homelessness. Ice rink or sports facilities There is value there. People who rent /own or come to shop/dine can enjoy a walk or socialize easily. Very valuable. I would like to see parks, free spaces, trails included in the overall plan. 6/6/23, 2:46 PM Polco https://polco.us/n/admin/content/f34ac66b-c638-4f67-a2e2-8a5ce6019988/report 29/33 Sports complex for public rental and use. Eagan is drastically shirt on gym ans arena space for youth and adult sports. This is a great opportunity to add more space. Sports dome or building where kids can play variety of sports Large sports complex to host practices, games and tournaments! Get a corporate sponsor to help pay for it! Indoor pool or sports dome Please use this space to fill Dakota County's need for a Homeless Shelter Eagan needs a proper sports dome and athletic complex! Our kids and teams are paying to use other city's facilities like Rosemount and Woodbury. Safety in numbers. I think there is enough at present . I would like to see more park amenities like tennis courts or more pickleball or more garden space for individuals to rent or a vendor that grows produce for sale. community involvement - sports/rec facility Build a Dome for winter use, a soccer arena or space for indoor jogging, I also see such a huge interest in pickleball in the city parks Family Focused - safe, beautiful, a place visitors would want to enjoy, Vikings connection, MOA, airport - considering what will stay around - we have enough businesses with empty buildings in Eagan! Green space improves everyone's experience physically and mentally. Being able to easily access green space on foot is important . One of our criteria when buying a house in Eagan was there needed to be at least one park (with a playground) within walking distance. We moved from walking distance to Minnehaha Falls in Minneapolis so this was v. important to us. Coffee shop or cafe would be great . Personally, I don’t see any value in more shops, or restaurants in that particular area. I could see homes, if anything, but the green space or land is what I personally value the most . I love that area, it’s a great area to walk and bike in, and see the wildlife In the mornings and evenings, it’s just really peaceful and I would dread That area being over built with industrial style unattractive apartments and increased traffic in the area and that beautiful green space being used up for more concrete. Ideally, it would be wonderful if businesses could just move into the existing buildings and leave the land alone. Eagan Is known for its green space, I hope that never changes. I think Eagan could offer more green space and recreational options in the central park area, with *locally owned* coffee shops and restaurants, and a natural foods co-op. Make it feel more like a town and less like a suburb. A dome like surrounding cities have so that our children don't have to get shuttled, and they can stay local. It would also look great being down the road from the Vikings Training Facilities :) Living near to Central Park Commons, we like that there is opportunity for increased walkable outings to parks, dinner, shopping. Paved and safe paths are so great for families and children. A Sports dome (Eagan wave soccer club is paying Lakeville, Rosemount , IGH etc for indoor soccer practices when they could have a home base) would be great for the Unisys / Delta area. Government Green Spaces, less development Low traffic options, more parking, more hiking trails Resilience, regenerative food hub, Sustainability, equity, health Easy access 6/6/23, 2:46 PM Polco https://polco.us/n/admin/content/f34ac66b-c638-4f67-a2e2-8a5ce6019988/report 30/33 A northside mini version of the park spaces in southern Eagan. I think this space is sooooo speacial, open space and I don't think it should be taken over by apartments and retail-wise there is so much office space available in other areas that could be converted. More pathways to access community center from northside (too steep near unisystem) Community education, community performance center, Value to those who live and work; not as much for those futher away, esp. seniors Trails and walking spaces are key. Would like to see more "festivals" in the area. I see use of this space primarily for leisure and entertainment - the "fun" part of Eagan. Offices for entrepreneurs, A tax benefit! Businesses being in a more divese group of folks to our community More Opportunity Diveristy Parks/Open spaces, Need green space and trails Convenience Connection to community very convenient for us and makes life easier Creates a sense of community, encourages people to be outdoors and interact it's great to have areas for families to get outside! more usage of park to validate maintenance if the public spaces are connected to private development the public spaced will be used more b/c they are convenient/acessible we currently rent at the old BC/BS Building and love to live and shop within our close radius. Please build condos to buy! added draw less empty space - more activity = less crime focus on employment rather than housing easy access recreation most everything is close by, plant trees and keep it natural 6/6/23, 2:46 PM Polco https://polco.us/n/admin/content/f34ac66b-c638-4f67-a2e2-8a5ce6019988/report 31/33 In which category is your age? 18-24 years 1% (7) 25-34 years 11% (56) 35-44 years 32% (169) 45-54 years 18% (94) 55-64 years 17% (92) 65-74 years 15% (79) 75 years and older 6% (29) What is your gender ? Woman 68% (357) Man 31% (162) Identify in another way 1% (5) 6/6/23, 2:46 PM Polco https://polco.us/n/admin/content/f34ac66b-c638-4f67-a2e2-8a5ce6019988/report 32/33 What is your race? (Mark one or more races to indicate what race you consider yourself to be.) American Indian or Alaska Native 2% (9) Asian 4% (20) Black or African American 4% (19) Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander 1% (5) White 92% (478) A race not listed 4% (21) 6/6/23, 2:46 PM Polco https://polco.us/n/admin/content/f34ac66b-c638-4f67-a2e2-8a5ce6019988/report 33/33 Following are resident comments on the Northwest Commons Small Area Plan received via email and staff responses. Mr. Sealey: Thank you for your email. We are aware of the Delta Building’s original construction and brief operation as a semiconductor facility in the early 1980’s. The small area plan includes an analysis to determine whether any of the existing buildings could be feasibly reused. Regarding public access to Eagan Central Park, currently all property north of Eagan Central Park is privately owned. Vehicular and pedestrian access is only from Central Parkway via Pilot Knob Road. I understand residents in neighborhoods to the north and northwest may cross private property to access Central Park, but the City has no public pedestrian easements over the private property. I will forward your thoughts to the City Council and appropriate people on the project team. Thank you again for your communication. Jill Jill Hutmacher Director of Community Development 3830 Pilot Knob Rd | Eagan, MN 55122 Office: 651-675-5653 https://www.cityofeagan.com From: John Sealey <jmsealey@yahoo.com> Sent: Thursday, April 13, 2023 9:20 PM To: Jill Hutmacher <jhutmacher@cityofeagan.com> Subject: Re: The Northwest Central Commons Small Area Project Hello Jill, I attended the April 12th meeting at the ECC. And spoke with Laura from the project team, or firm helping with this project. Didn’t really find much value in that unfortunately. I wanted to bring this to your attention as a possible proposal that the city may want to consider. The current Building J Delta building, is an original Sperry Univac building which was built specifically for semiconductors and has deep sub basement for storage. The other Sperry building that was torn down was located where Hyvee etc was eventually built. Governor Walz has $500 million in revenue which he plans on using for the state of MN to attract semiconductor businesses to MN etc. Maybe this building could be updated etc to accommodate such a move? I’ve attached the history of these buildings in this email for context as I doubt many people know about this, nor have done research about the current buildings. Can you please pass along this information to the appropriate people? I know it’s basically a courtesy that feedback is being taken, and more than likely the city will move forward or have already decided on an outcome. But, I’m being wishful that the city will do the right thing and avoid residential or more retail in these areas. Last thing, you mention possible public access to the neighborhoods in the N and NW area which would connect to the ECC. Can you please elaborate on what that means? It’s pretty easy to get to the ECC from this area currently. dakotahistory.org Best regards, John Sealey From: Jill Hutmacher <jhutmacher@cityofeagan.com> Date: March 29, 2023 at 11:05:20 AM CDT To: John Sealey <jmsealey@yahoo.com> Subject: RE: The Northwest Central Commons Small Area Project Mr. Sealey, I am happy to respond to your questions regarding the Northwest Central Commons Small Area Plan. I believe you are most interested in the parcels north of Eagan Central Park, so I will focus my answers on those areas. The parcels north of Central Park are owned by Unisys Corporation and Digital Towerview, LLC which is owned by Digital Realty. Digital Realty purchased the site from Delta Airlines in 2013 and leased it back to Delta for eight years. Delta has now vacated the building and moved its operations to the airport area. Unisys is currently phasing out all remaining uses of their Eagan facility and intends to vacate the building entirely within a few years. Both property owners have contracted with a private commercial broker to market the sites. Given the age and characteristics of both buildings and the current state of the office market, reuse of the existing buildings for office purposes is unlikely. You may be aware that Thomson Reuters is leaving its 1.1 million square foot office building in Eagan. Blue Cross Blue Shield and United Health Care both announced within the last two weeks that they are leaving their office buildings. In Bloomington and Plymouth, office buildings have already been demolished for redevelopment into housing and other uses. Office property owners across the Twin Cities and nation are evaluating redevelopment and reuse options. The small area plan scope of work will include a market study to help the City better understand what uses may be feasible. As a best practice, cities often proactively use small area plans and other master planning tools in areas where land use changes seem imminent. A fundamental goal of a small area plan is to provide a foundation for potential land use changes that aligns with City objectives. As a first step, cities gather public feedback on the subject area to understand how the public interacts with the site and to prioritize public goals for reuse and redevelopment. As an example, currently all roads internal to the Unisys and former Delta sites are private including all drive aisles, trails, connections to Towerview Road and the ring road up to the edge of Central Park. Use of any of these areas by the public is currently at the sole discretion of the property owners. If the sites are redeveloped, a City goal may be to provide public access to Eagan Central Park from neighborhoods to the north and northwest. Other goals regarding preservation of green space, public amenities, and tax base will be considered through the small area planning process. As developers come forward with requests for land use approvals, the City will evaluate those requests through the lens of public goals identified through the small area planning process. The Northwest Central Commons Small Area Plan is expected to be completed in late summer/early fall 2023. Redevelopment could take five to ten years. I encourage you to check the Northwest Central Commons Small Area Plan page for updates and to participate in scheduled and future public engagement opportunities. Thank you for reaching out to the City of Eagan with your questions regarding the Northwest Central Commons Small Area Plan. Jill Jill Hutmacher Director of Community Development 3830 Pilot Knob Rd | Eagan, MN 55122 Office: 651-675-5653 https://www.cityofeagan.com From: John Sealey <jmsealey@yahoo.com> Sent: Friday, March 24, 2023 11:48 AM To: Jill Hutmacher <jhutmacher@cityofeagan.com> Subject: Re: The Northwest Central Commons Small Area Project Hi Jill, Thank you for replying to me and addressing my questions and concerns. After reading your reply. I have a few follow up questions that will help clear up some areas that I'm a little confused on. These properties are privately owned. Can you please clarify a few things that I am not clear on? 1. Who owns each parcel of land? Is it owned by each private business? I always was under the understanding the land was leased. 2. Are the owners of each building selling each building? Would these buildings be torn down for new construction? Example, is Delta the company selling the building? 3. Is the City or City Council going rezone these parcels to developers? Building to suit and make it easier for what the buyer wishes to build? 4. Can you clarify who is marketing this for redevelopment? 5. What is the time frame of all of this from start to finish? 2023, 2024 beginning? 6. Has anyone taken into consideration the vast wildlife that lives in this area? Any concerns about how the deer, etc. will be affected? 7. Lastly, you mentioned that City doesn't have the budget or any plans to purchase the properties for park expansion etc. Then why is the City conducting this project if the City isn't in control of the selling off the properties? And opinions such as mine, are essentially only "noise" that cannot impact how or who sells, or buys these properties and how they are redeveloped? Why give the impression that the community has a say, when we don't? 8. Roads in and out of the area, how will that change? Traffic etc. Thank you for your time. I tried to keep my questions short, but I just need a little more context to help understand what's going to happen to be better informed. Best regards, John Sealey On Monday, March 20, 2023 at 08:11:53 AM CDT, Jill Hutmacher <jhutmacher@cityofeagan.com> wrote: Mr. Sealey: Thank you for reaching out to the City with your questions and concerns. I appreciate that you have enjoyed your neighborhood since childhood. It is lovely to hear of your deep connections to Eagan. The City of Eagan initiated the Northwest Central Commons Small Area Plan project because the Unisys site and former Delta and Argosy sites are all currently being marketed for redevelopment. These properties are privately owned, and the City has no plans or budget to purchase the properties for park expansion or public amenities. Given the current state of the office market, redevelopment into new uses such as residential, retail, or commercial/industrial is very likely. Through the small area planning process, the City hopes to gather feedback from residents on how change occurs and to provide clarity to potential purchasers on City goals for redevelopment. The City is interested in improving connections to the Central Park area, preserving high-quality greenspace, and ensuring that Central Park and the Eagan Community Center continue to meet the evolving needs of current and future residents. Regarding your specific questions, the Lone Oak Rd (County 26)/ Highway 13 intersection improvement project was initiated in 2020 by MnDOT and Dakota County Transportation through resident requests and because current traffic volumes/patterns warranted the installation of the traffic signal at Highway 13 which was completed in 2022. The Northwest Central Commons Small Area Plan had not yet begun and did not affect the scope or construction of this project. This project was primarily funded through MnDOT and Dakota County. The planned Lone Oak Road (County 26) upgrade project was initiated by Dakota County Transportation because the roadway pavement has reached the end of its life cycle. This project, scheduled for construction in late 2024/2025 has been in Dakota County’s plan since 2021. The small area plan was not a factor in planning the roadway improvements. The planned Lone Oak Road (County 26) upgrade project (current estimate $4.7M) will be primarily paid through a Federal grant obtained by Dakota County, along with County and City funding. In addition to the winter market at the ECC on April 12, community engagement events will be planned for spring and early summer. Those dates have not yet been scheduled. The City Council is tentatively scheduled to discuss the small area plan at work session meetings on June 13 and August 8. The cost of the consultant contract is $216,150. I am the project leader and am happy to respond to any questions you have about the project and planning process. Thank you again for contacting the City. Your concerns will be shared with the City Council. Jill Jill Hutmacher Director of Community Development 3830 Pilot Knob Rd | Eagan, MN 55122 Office: 651-675-5653 https://www.cityofeagan.com -----Original Message----- From: John Sealey <jmsealey@yahoo.com> Sent: Tuesday, March 14, 2023 9:22 PM To: CommDevelopment <commdevelopment@cityofeagan.com> Cc: John Sealey <jmsealey@yahoo.com> Subject: The Northwest Central Commons Small Area Project Hello, This email is in regards to The Northwest Central Commons Small Area Project. I’m a longtime Eagan resident of 30 plus years, who grew up in the Timberline Oslund neighborhood and now who currently lives in this same neighborhood with my family. My parents also currently reside in this neighborhood as well, and have for 45 years. If you’re looking for important feedback, then I’d really hope residents such as us, who have supported this community for years, will have our voices heard, and genuinely listened to. I’ll go ahead and believe that no decision has been made behind the scenes on how this land parcel will be redeveloped etc. The survey provided to residents for feedback was eye opening due to it not having an available essay answer option for residents to fill out. It only had predetermined multiple choice answers provided by the provider. Which, captures demographics, and selected scoped answers. That’s a concern. I’ve enjoyed this area for years as a resident due to it being a quiet area for running, walking, bringing our kids along this area for safe walks along Towerview Rd, playtime etc. It’s currently very quiet during the day or night. Night time it’s lit by the businesses parking lot lights which is great for getting outside. It currently has very little, to no congestion at all from the excessive growth from the retail, and rentals built over the prior years surrounding the area around the ECC. It’s been a welcomed buffer zone from Building J, up to Unisys to Pilot Knob Park. These parcels of land is truly a quiet protected area which our neighborhood enjoys and matter of fact wish to keep this it way. Or, having it disturbed very lightly. Lastly, it’s an ideal spot for the Fourth of July Fireworks. I understand it’s underutilized currently, and your proposed project will have plenty of facts etc which will support this. But the City of Eagan doesn’t need more rental housing, retail, or dining. You’ve accommodated all of this in past growth projects. Which I welcome. However, the amount of congestion, traffic, and crime has spiked. If this land is going to be transformed, then please due it with additional park and rec opportunities in mind. More trees, pathways, parks, educational experiences for kids and families. Sporting fields. Etc etc. As my opinion probably won’t make a difference, I do feel compelled to write in. Lastly, I have a few questions: Is the current Lone Oak Rd project a result of this redevelopment? The timing of the two seem very questionable. Seems as if Lone Oak Rd expanding and having stop lights inserted was an effort to withstand future traffic congestion that may come from this small area project? Who is paying for this project? And what is the estimated cost analysis? When will Eagan residents have an in person opportunity/forum to speak to the leaders of this project? Outside of the March and April date provided. Any city council meetings? Can the community center expand on to these land parcels? Adding a pool etc? Cascade Bay was the reason for no pool in the past, has that changed? Thank you in advance for your time, and hopefully reading this. Many Eagan residents would hate to see this area turned into more rental housing, retail spaces, dining etc. Including myself. I’ve spoken to a good number of residents on this topics recently. In our neighborhood and outside. Sincerely, John Sealey 651.491.0313 Thank you, Mr. Seburg, for your comments on the Northwest Central Commons Small Area Plan. They will be shared with the City Council. Please feel free to contact me with any questions. Jill Jill Hutmacher Director of Community Development 3830 Pilot Knob Rd | Eagan, MN 55122 Office: 651-675-5653 https://www.cityofeagan.com -----Original Message----- From: paul SEBURG <apseburg@msn.com> Sent: Thursday, April 13, 2023 9:31 AM To: Jill Hutmacher <jhutmacher@cityofeagan.com> Subject: Central Park neighborhood development Dear Madam, Our hopes for the underused 70 acres of commercial real estate adjacent to our apartment building on 1555-Quarry Road in Eagan is for something as nice as Edina’s “Centennial Lake” development, with a mix of mostly residential housing (addressing the need for more affordable urban housing), parkland, and perhaps an indoor pool complex. Winters are long in Minnesota, and swimming is a wonderful form of exercise for all ages that should be available to Eagan residents (without driving to other towns) more than 3 months of the year! While the outdoor Aquatic Center in Eagan is very nice, we use our Quarry outdoor pool every day between May 20 and September 30 when it is open, so we have not been to the Aquatic Center. Yet we would happily pay an annual membership to a local indoor pool, even though we have our own outdoor pool for summertime. I realize that Eagan voters turned down an opportunity to build an indoor pool in a bond issue a few years back, but with increasing rates of childhood and adult obesity, a low-impact form of exercise provided by a year-around swimming facility would be a great public health improvement. What about including amenities such as a community swimming pool with new housing? Residents of the new housing - both market-rate and affordable units, could have lower-price memberships in the pool complex included in their lease or purchase of housing units, and memberships at a higher cost could be offered to seniors and other Eagan residents. We are not sure more restaurants and shops are needed in this area; although we appreciate and patronize area restaurants, HyVee and Aldi’s grocery stores, Starbucks, Puffy’s Donuts, Viverant, and other businesses each week; and we like attending events and the Senior Center at the Eagan Community Center. Also, some kind of subsidized daycare center would be useful to young couples in our area. Minnesota currently has the most expensive early childhood care in the nation. So how about an “outdoor- play-focused” daycare/ preschool program similar to the St. Paul Country Day Preschool program in Mendota Heights? {That excellent (but very expensive) childcare facility is full and only provides for a few lucky children.} The magnificent Delta office complex setting would be a great choice for an outdoor-based preschool or daycare. What about a partnership with area higher education institutions to provide internships for college students to help defray the labor costs that are intrinsic to daycare facilities? Children are Minnesota’s greatest resource, and Early Childhood education is a terrific investment in our country’s human infrastructure. Existing Eagan preschool and daycare providers could be consulted for their input so they would not feel economically disadvantaged by more competition with new childcare slots opening. I know our daughter had to look a year ahead for daycare openings for our 3-year old grandson. There is a shortage of openings for daycare even in very high-end facilities. We look out at the Argosy land from both window sides of our 3rd floor apartment, and I would love to see some green space / attractively-landscaped development that provides more affordable housing, childcare, and recreation possibilities to ourselves and our neighbors! Sincerely, Paul & Alison Seburg The Quarry Residents Sent from my iPhone Nick, during recent events at the Community Center, we gathered feedback on how the community uses Central Park and thoughts on private development on the privately-owned parcels surrounding Central Park. We also provided information on the small area planning process. We will be having additional public engagement events later this spring and summer once concept plans have been created. The City Council is tentatively scheduled to review three concept plans at their work session meeting on Tuesday, June 13, 2023. Please feel free to contact me for project updates. We will be posting public engagement opportunities on the project web page at cityofeagan.com/central-commons. Thank you for reaching out to the City regarding the Northwest Central Commons Small Area Plan. Jill Jill Hutmacher Director of Community Development 3830 Pilot Knob Rd | Eagan, MN 55122 Office: 651-675-5653 https://www.cityofeagan.com -----Original Message----- From: Nick Goodbrand <ngoodbrand8@gmail.com> Sent: Thursday, April 20, 2023 9:55 AM To: Jill Hutmacher <jhutmacher@cityofeagan.com> Subject: Central Commons Small Area Plan Hi Jill, I was just curious if there were any other future public events regarding the Central Commons Small Area plan? Didn’t see the news about the plan until the other events at Community Center had already happened. Hoping to stay up to date on it as the former Delta building is right behind our tree line in back yard. Sent from my iPhone     Agenda Information Memo  June 13, 2023 Special City Council Meeting    V.  2023‐2024 Budget Update    Direction for Consideration     No action required.  This is an informal check in with the City Council on the 2023‐2024 budget process.    Facts     On April 13, 2023, Staff officially started the 2023‐2024 budget process.  As the City Council will  recall, this will be our 4th “round” of preparing a two‐year operating budget.    Department Directors were scheduled to submit their budget proposals to the Budget Team on  Friday, May 26; those would include all general fund department, recreation facilities, Cedar  Grove Parking Garage and the Sustainability Budgets.   The Budget Team‐‐‐City Administrator Dianne Miller, Assistant City Administrator Sarah Alig,  Finance Director Josh Feldman and Assistant Finance Director Brent Foiles are scheduled to  meet with Directors beginning the week of June 12 and throughout the month of June to review  and discuss individual department budget requests.    This agenda item will provide the Staff a brief opportunity to share the early projections of the  2023‐2024 budget and for the City Council to provide direction or input that would assist the  City Administrator in preparing a recommended budget.   The City’s 2024‐2025 Budget likely will include components of the following outcomes/drivers:   o 2023 legislative action:    Public Safety Aid ‐ $3M revenue   Safe and Sick leave – cost to be determined   Housing funds – 527k revenue  o Financial results from the 12/31/2022 Financial report that was presented at the June 6,  2023 meeting highlighted positive financial performance in the General Fund and fund  balance over the City’s policy level.    o Previous City Council direction for an increase in capital funding for the Equipment  Revolving and Parks Development Funds totaling $650,000 for 2024 and 400,000 in  2025.  o Operational/Debt costs for Recreation Facility improvements  o First full year of the Rental Housing Licensing program  o 2024 General Election  o Decline in funding for communications and the incremental use of tax revenue to  replace the lost franchise revenue.  $200,000 for 2024 and 2025, respectively.  o Partnerships/Member driven costs   Dakota 911 – 3.5% increase   LOGIS – 11.8% increase   o Personnel cost increases:   Union Contracts are settled for 2024   Health Insurance increases – 8.5% for 2024 and 9% for 2025   Estimated Personnel cost increases (baseline)   2024 ‐ $2.02M   2025 ‐ $2.08M    Policy Questions for Consideration:    1.) What, if any, service level feedback or general direction would you like to address in the 2024‐ 2025 operating budget?    Attachments:     None