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01/09/1992 - Advisory Parks & Recreation Commission MEMORANDUM TO: ADVISORY PARKS, RECREATION & NATURAL RESOURCE COMMISSION FROM: KEN VRAA, DIRECTOR OF PARKS AND RECREATION DATE: JANUARY 7, 1992 RE: THURSDAY, JANUARY 9,1992 MEETING The first meeting of this new year for the Commission has a relatively light agenda in terms of number of issues for the Commission to deal with. OLD BUSINESS: Staff has prepared a report on Park Service Area 36E, the first item under "Old Business". This report was initiated as a result of the proposed Weston Hills Development, just south of Cliff and east of Highway #3. Commission members will recall at the last Commission meeting in December, we briefly reviewed this item with the Commission asking for direction if a park for this service section should be considered. Given the affirmative, staff has pursued a study of the area to determine where a neighborhood park could be located. Staffs memo is rather complex and extensive, so a careful review in reading it is urged due to the number of related issues that are involved. The second item of business pertains to the proposal from Dakota County Engineering Department, regarding that section of roadway east of Dodd and the location of trails. Again, staff has prepared a brief memorandum on this issue for discussion by the Advisory Commission. There are no other items on the Commission's agenda for action. However, staff does have a number of other items of importance for the Advisory Commission, which we would like to spend a few moments on. Please notify the department staff if you will be unable to attend this Commission meeting. es ectfully submitted, Ken aa, Director of Parks and Recreation KV/bls AGENDA ADVISORY PARKS, RECREATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION EAGAN, MINNESOTA Thursday, January 9, 1992 7:00 P.M. Eagan Municipal Center A. 7:00 P.M. Regular Meeting - Eagan Municipal Center B. Call to Order and Pledge of Allegiance C. Approval of Agenda D. Approval of Minutes of Regular Meeting of December 5, 1991 E. Consent Agenda: None F. Visitors to be Heard G. Development Proposals H. Old Business (1) Park Service Area 36E 1. New Business (1) County Road 30 - East of Dodd: Trails J. Parks Development K. Water Quality L. Other Business and Reports (1) Department Happenings M. Round Table N. Adjournment d MINUTES OF A REGULAR MEETING OF THE ADVISORY PARKS, RECREATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION EAGAN, MINNESOTA DECEMBER 5, 1992 A regular meeting of the Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission was called to order at 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, December 5,1991 with the following Commission Members present: Lee Markell, Jack Johnson, George Kubik, John Griggs, Shawn Hunter, and Dick Carroll. Commission members Deborah Johnson and Ted Billy were not present. Staff present Included Ken Vraa, Director of Parks and Recreation; Stephen Sullivan, Landscape Architect/Parks Planner; Dorothy Peterson, Superintendent of Recreation; John VonDeLinde, Parks Superintendent; Rich Brasch, Water Quality Coordinator and Cherry) Mesko, Secretary. AGENDA John Griggs moved, Jack Johnson seconded with all members voting In favor to accept the agenda as presented. MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING OF NOVEMBER 7, 1991 Page 4, last paragraph, first sentence should read, ".....selling park property without compromising the park. He suggested that a land swap or a monetary gain could be negotiated between the Vatterotts and the City." EASY EATERY - CROWN CO CO INC. Jack Johnson moved, Shawn Hunter seconded with all members voting in favor to make the following recommendations to the City Council: 1. That this plat be subject to a cash parks dedication. 2. That this plat be subject to a cash trailway dedication. HADLER PARK - SEMPER HOLDINGS INC. Jack Johnson moved, Shawn Hunter seconded with all members voting in favor to make the following recommendations to the City Council: 1. That this plat be subject to a cash parks dedication. 2. That this plat be subject to a cash trailway dedication. EAA SOCCER TOURNAMENT PROPOSAL Dorothy Peterson explained that the EAA soccer program has been looking forward to the opportunity to host a soccer tournament similar to those held in neighboring communities. She then introduced Jim Wilson, Director of EAA's travel soccer program and Lyle Tollefsrud who Is co-chairing this proposed Memorial weekend tournament. Jim Wilson explained that he has been an active part of the EAA soccer program for many years, has participated in several in-state and out-of-state soccer tournaments both as a coach and as a parent of players. He continued that he has also played an active planning role for many years In the USA Cup ADVISORY PARKS, RECREATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION MINUTES OF DECEMBER 5, 1991 MEETING PAGE 2 which is the fourth largest soccer tournament in the world. This tournament Is held annually in Blaine with teams from all over the world. Mr. Wilson continued that Eagan's First Invitational tournament is being planned for May 22, 23 and 24, 1992. It Is anticipated that there will be approximately 180 teams from several states with would calculate to approximately 3200 players. With families, coaches and friends accompanying these players there is the potential for up to 10,000 people in Eagan for this event. There have been several meetings held to set up the network of volunteers needed to facilitate this tournament. Jim concluded by stating that he hoped the Commission would support this endeavor and they hope to have this become the best tournament in Minnesota. Shawn Hunter asked how many fields would be needed to accommodate this event. Jim Wilson responded that after meeting with department staff it was determined that 21 field would be needed for this event. George Kubik asked If staff would be able to handle the maintenance requirements for this to which both Dorothy Peterson and John VonDeLinde responded affirmatively. George commented that it would be quite an honor to host such an event. Dick Carroll asked if there was any fundraising necessary for this tournament and Mr. Wilson responded that the entry fee will cover the actual tournament fees but there will be concession sales and T-shirt sales that will help fund some of the extra expenses. It is anticipated that the first year will result In a break-even situation. In response to a question regarding insurance, Jim Wilson responded that the insurance will be provided by MYSA (Minnesota Youth Soccer Association). Director Vraa added that the planned Memorial weekend works very well in that it will have the least impact on displacing other sports and their scheduled activities. George Kubik concluded that this looks like an excellent opportunity that will benefit a lot of youth. John Griggs suggested that the soccer organization visit with the Economic Development Committee as well as the Chamber of Commerce to see If they can offer any assistance if facilitating this event. After further discussion, Shawn Hunter moved that the Commission wholeheartedly endorse Eagan's 1st Invitational soccer tournament on Memorial weekend with the EAA working cooperatively with City staff to ensure that this is a successful event. George Kubik seconded the motion with all members voting in favor. CONCESSIONS UPDATE Superintendent of Recreation Peterson followed up on a request by the Commission from a previous meeting regarding the status of the use of the concession room. The inquiry related to the practice of allowing teams in the Department's leagues to operate concessions for league sponsored special events. The most specific question concerned how long this practice should continue. As background, Dorothy explained that the League Leadership Committee which represents the recreational leagues within the City's leagues decided to keep the treasuries from the leagues until such time that a specific identifiable use could be determined. Some of the dollars were spent to pay for half of the outfield fence for fields 1 through 4 at Northview, $2,658.64 was donated to purchase a refrigerator, freezer, hot dog roller grill and popcorn popper. Regarding the concession room, the practice of allowing access to league teams is an open-ended, informal understanding. Dorothy continued that licensing the facility does place constraints on its use an on the food items that can be served. Dorothy then reviewed staff's proposals to making adjustments to the practice of league teams operating concessions from the concession room for league events. ADVISORY PARKS, RECREATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION MINUTES OF DECEMBER 5, 1991 MEETING PAGE 3 After further discussion John Griggs moved, Shawn Hunter seconded with all members voting in favor to make the following adjustments to the practice of league teams operating concessions from the concession room for league events: 1. The proposed 50/50 division of net proceeds between the team and the park site fund be activated in 1992. 2. The long term plan would be to end the current practice. However, as long as.original teams participate In the league and original managers serve on the league leadership committee, the practice should be allowed to continue. The date of October 31, 1995 will be designated as the last date of the phase out. 3. The League Leadership Committee shall be an equal partner in planning the phase out. PARK SERVICE AREA 36E Director Vraa introduced this item and noted that typically the Commission would not see this plan until it was in a more refined state. This is an early review of this Issue due to the Impact of some possible issues the Commission will need to be aware of. The study phase of this issue has been separated into two parts; the first study phase is the Commission's determination whether a park Is needed within PSA 36E which will be discussed at this meeting and the second phase will identify a specific site or sites for parkland acquisition if the Commission determines the need. The second phase will be reviewed at the January 9, 1992 meeting. Ken continued that he has talked with the Director of Parks and Recreation from Inver Grove Heights as they too will be reviewing this Issue since it will impact the Eagan, Inver Grove Heights border area. Steve Sullivan continued that the Comprehensive Parks Systems Plan does not specifically recommend a parkland acquisition with Park Service Area #36E but mentions the potential of a joint development park between the cities of Eagan and Inver Grove Heights. Steve stated that this report will focus on the classifications and standards in regard tot he need for either a mini-park or neighborhood park. He then outlined the differences between the two types of park, i.e. use, service area, site, site attributes and site location. Steve continued that the PSA is comprised of interim type land uses. The current population of PSA #36 is estimated at approximately 30-50 residents with a buildout population of 1287 based on 100% development to D-1 residential. PSA 36E Is approximately 1 mile In length In a north/south orientation and varies from 1 /8 mile to 1 /2 mile in width along the east west axis. The geometric configuration does not accommodate the service standards of a 1 /4 mile radius for a mini-park. The 1 /2 mile radius standard for a neighborhood park serves a majority of the Park Service Area when located centrally. In conclusion Steve stated that the buildout population of PSA 36E exceeds minimum standards of a mini-park classification. Existing PSA of similar demographics to PSA 36E are served by parks ranging in classification from mini-parks to neighborhood parks. Steve suggested the following recommendations for the Commission to consider: ADVISORY PARKS, RECREATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION MINUTES OF DECEMBER 5, 1991 MEETING PAGE 4 1. A park is needed within PSA 36E. Staff should begin Identifying potential park sites. 2. No park Is needed within PSA 36E. Park needs can be adequately met with an enhanced park in #36W. 3. The City should rely on Inver Grove Heights to provide any needed park amenities. 4. The City should work toward a joint Eagan/Inver Grove Heights community park If feasible. Water Resources Coordinator Rich Brasch then addressed some potential water quality Issues for the Commission to consider. He noted that the Weston Hills development within this PSA Is a 64 acre, 132 unit residential development located south and east of the Intersection of Cliff Road and Highway 3 in the NE 1 /4 of section 36 in southeast Eagan. The storm water drainage from approximately 60 acres of the developed site will discharge to Pond LP-27, a 3.2 acre pond classified for wildlife habitat In the City's water quality management plan. LP-27 will discharge to LP-26, currently classified to support indirect contact recreation. Other downstream waters potentially affected by the proposed development include Manor Lake (LP-28), Hay Lake (LP-31) and Schwartz Lake (LP-32) classified as Indirect contact, indirect contact and direct contact respectively. Based on preliminary analysis, two ponds will be needed to meet the requisite treatment standards. One pond of about .6 acres in surface area and 2 acre-feet In wet volume will be created by deepening a small semi-permanently flooded wetland in the northwest corner of the site along Highway 3 to treat runoff from about 20 acres. Another two-cell pond with a surface area of approximately.8 acres and a wet volume of 3-3.5 acre feet will be necessary to adequately treat the runoff from the remainder of the site before it is discharged to Pond JP-27. Rich continued that if the Commission concurs with the rationale to require ponding instead of a cash dedication for this development, the Issue of placing the two-cell pond In the area between LP-27 and Highway 3 could pose a problem with losing a pocket of high value mixed hardwood and softwood trees. The Commission will need to weigh the option of losing trees versus water quality at this location. Dick Carroll commented that the east side of the pond Is very steep and suggested that the City discuss with Inver Grove Heights if they want storm water in the pond to the north and east of the site. George Kubik expressed the need for staff to meet with the Inver Grove Heights staff, to explore options and to spend more time before making a decision on this issue. Director Vraa stated that Eagan's Planning staff has sent a letter to Inver Grove Heights to see what options and opportunities exist. Ken asked the Commission to clarify for staff their perception of the highest priority in dealing with the Weston Hills proposed plat. Does the Commission want to place a higher priority on water quality or the preservation of trees in this particular issue. After further discussion, George Kubik commented that the consensus appeared to be the preservation of water quality as the higher priority in this particular case. After further discussion, John Griggs moved, George Kubik seconded with all members voting In favor that Park Service Area 36E should have some recreational park facility however the particulars would be worked out at a later date. PARKS DEVELOPMENT UPDATE Stephen Sullivan stated that contracts from the fall will be carried over Into the spring. At the present time he is actively back on the drafting board doing design work. ADVISORY PARKS, RECREATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION MINUTES OF DECEMBER 5, 1991 MEETING PAGE 5 George Kubik complimented Rich Brasch and John VonDeUnde on the very extensive and informative water quality workshop the Commission recently attended. DEPARTMENT HAPPENINGS Some of the items discussed Included the Senior's Christmas lunch, winter registration will be held on December 14th from 9 am - 1 pm, Santa Calling will take place on December 11 and 12 and Commission members are invited to participate, the skating rinks are being cleared of snow so that flooding can be done In anticipation of a December 20th opening; Trapp Farm Park tubing hill opened early due to the early snow cover and Brad Regan Tire donated 80 tubes for use at the hill. John Griggs commented on how nice it was to see decorations at Trapp. It was also noted that Clearwater Park will be open this year. George Kubik commented on the level of staff participation at the MRPA conference. Ken Vraa added that he was also pleased with their participation noting that John VonDeLinde, Dorothy Peterson, Paula Nowariak and Jon Oyanagi all had an Integral part of making the conference as successful as it was. DRAFT OF FORESTRY BROCHURE John VonDeLinde explained that through a cooperative effort with Tom Schuster, Ken Vraa and John a series of brochures are being planned to help the public with some basic information. This is seen as a means to more quickly respond to resident's questions on forestry, landscaping, etc. It Is anticipated that 2 drafts will be keylined by the end of December so that this can again be brought back to the Commission for review and comment. John Griggs suggested that one item that may be added to the content of the brochures would be the best time to plant trees and the benefits of pruning trees that are transplanted. John VonDeLinde asked the Commission members to contact him during the week of December 9th with any further ideas or comments in the brochure. ROUND TABLE George Kubik asked if it would be possible to recap 1991's events at the January, 1992 Commission meeting. He stated it would be an opportunity to highlight some of the high points as well as to look back on some historical data that could be kept for future information. Shawn Hunter continued that he would like to see some historical perspective established and perhaps have a short presentation in February when new commission members are beginning their term. Shawn felt some history on the 1984 bond referendum and how those monies had been spent would also give commission members some good historical background. George Kubik agreed that February would be a more appropriate time for this Information to be presented to the commission. Shawn Hunter expressed his concern for a proposed three-phased referendum. He felt that there is no consensus at this point as to what would be more valuable; an Ice arena or a pool. Ken Vraa explained that the Council has not yet made a decision on the 3 -tier concept. John Griggs added that this issue is not new to the Commission; it has always been concerned about linking a pod to an Ice arena. Shawn added that it is important that the Commission makes their opinion and concerns known to the Council. George Kubik noted that it is Important that the Commission make their opinions known, but didn't think a motion to formalize that opinion was necessary. John Griggs stated that a motion Is only a recommendation and felt it was important that the Council know exactly what position the Commission Is ADVISORY PARKS, RECREATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION MINUTES OF DECEMBER 5, 1991 MEETING PAGE 6 taking. Jack Johnson expressed his concern for overriding the work that the Task Force, after having met for one year, had done and felt it was inappropriate for the Commission to interfere with the recommendation made to the Council. Jack did agree that the Commission's opinions should be provided to the Council, however, not in the form of a motion. Chairman Kubik stated he understood the strong feelings expressed regarding this issue. John Griggs asked that this item be added as a formal agenda item in January. Jack Johnson suggested that an invitation be sent to Gary Fuchs to attend the January meeting If this was going to be an agenda Item. Shawn Hunter, recognizing that this was John Griggs last Commission meeting, thanked John for his service on the Commission. George Kubik added that John has given the group some good thoughts on several issues and thanked John for all the effort he had put forth. Lee Markell asked for clarification of the inter-relationship between this Commission and the Advisory Planning Commission. After some discussion on this issue, George Kubik suggested that this Item come back to the Commission in February during the time when new members are being Introduced to and becoming familiar with the Commission. Ken Vraa added that at a previous Council workshop the Council had asked that a fee be charged for the summer playground program. Staff will be reviewing this issue to see what options are available and what format will be proposed. Mr. Vraa suggested that updating the Capital Improvements Program from 1992-1996 be placed on the February agenda for the Commission to review. In reference to the proposed brainstorming meeting in December/January, it was decided that January 23, 1992 would be the date for that meeting with the location to be determined later. With no further business to conduct, John Griggs moved, George Kubik seconded with all members voting in favor to adjourn the meeting. The meeting was adjourned at 9:25 P.M. L-C SLscretary Date MEMORANDUM TO: ADVISORY PARKS, RECREATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION FROM:Y' KEN VRAA, DIRECTOR OF PARKS, RECREATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES STEPHEN SULLIVAN, PARK PLANNER/LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT DATE: JANUARY 3, 1992 RE: PARK SERVICE AREA 36 E - PARKS AREA STUDY BACKGROUND The Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission at the December 5th meeting made recommendations regarding the need for a park within Park Service Area 36E. The Commission requested staff to evaluate potential park site acquisition areas which could service the park service area. The Park Service Area is located south of Cliff Road, east of State Highway 3, north of the City of Rosemount and west of the City of Inver Grove Heights. (See Figure #1) This area is currently comprised of interim type land uses. The Comprehensive Land Use Plan designates the entire area for single family residential at 0-3 units per acre. The developmental time frame for Park Service Area 36E is unpredictable. The platting of the Weston Hills Addition facilitates the development potential of the remaining undeveloped parcels via the extension of roadways and utilities. SCOPE OF MEMORANDUM The scope of this memorandum reviews large park study areas. The study evaluates two sites within Park Service Area 36E and one located within Inver Grove Heights. (See Figure #2) The primary criteria of review for each study area are: 1. Standard site analysis items i.e, topography, drainage, vegetation, etc. 2. Development efficiencies and constraints. 3. Service area efficiencies and constraints. 4. Acquisition considerations. 5. Economic considerations. 1/. PARK SERVICE AREA 36E PAGE TWO ANALYSIS COMPREHENSIVE PARKS SYSTEMS PLAN The Comprehensive Parks System Plan does not specifically indicate a parkland acquisition within Park Service Area #36E, but instead mentions the possibility of a joint park between the Cities of Inver Grove Heights and Eagan. Based on the joint park concept staff has re-defined P.S.A. #36E to include an area within Inver Grove Heights which lies south of Cliff Road, north of Rosemount and West of County Road #73. The newly defined Park Service Area is approximately 1-1/4 miles in length by 1 mile in width. A centrally located park (i.e., Park Study Area #1 & #3) would place the park within 3/4 of a mile of all residents. The build out population for both communities within this Park Service Area is approximately 1,700. Eagan's Comprehensive Parks System Plan defines mini-parks as serving a minimum of 500 residents within a 1/4 mile radius. The mini-park parcel size is typically 1-4 acres. A mini park facility program is typically an open play area and playground. Resource based facilities and site requirements are typically not utilized within mini-parks. Eagan's Comprehensive Parks System Plan defines a neighborhood park serving 2,000 - 5,000 residents within a 1/2 mile radius. The facility program is enhanced by including hardcourts, parking lots, trails and miscellaneous resource based facilities. The parcel size is typically 10 - 20 acres. Based on this criteria, it appears that the 1,700 build-out population and the re-defined service area size has a closer reflected need to a neighborhood park than a mini-park. A second approach is to service only the residents of Eagan within Park Service Area #36E. A centrally located park within the Park Service Area (i.e., Study Area #2 & #3) would serve a majority of the population within a half mile radius. This is consistent with Eagan's typical neighborhood park classification standard. The build out population for Park Service Area 36E is approximately 1,287. The service population meets the 500 minimum for the mini-park yet falls short of the 2,000 - 5,000 service population for a neighborhood park. Service areas of similar population demographics include the recently platted Manor Lake Addition "Park Area" and Captain Dodd Park. Both park areas contain approximately 5 - 7 acres for active type facilities such as hard courts, open play area or overlay fields, playground and parking lot. Captain Dodd Park also includes another 7 acres for a resource based trail which circles a pond. Manor Lake Addition park area is less resource oriented with a spur trail to a canoe launch on a small lake. These parks typically support a bias toward basic active neighborhood facilities at a limited development scale (i.e., open play area or field overlay in lieu of separate full scale play fields, half hardcourts, smaller playgrounds. As well, the resource based facilities have a secondary bias to the active based facilities. This secondary bias, as in the case of Captain Dodd Park, does not preclude opportunistic design or acquisition. Staff's evaluation using these two parks as typical examples indicate a hybrid park classification which serves ~a. PARK SERVICE AREA 36E PAGE THREE populations larger than the 500 mini-park criteria and less than the 2,000 neighborhood park standard. These hybrid parks typically have service areas typical of neighborhood parks. Based on this observation, staff concurs with the Commission's recommendation for a park within P.S.A. 36E. Also, in maintaining consistency with the hybrid classification concept, it appears the park parcel size would need to be 4 - 7 developmentally efficient acres. ANALYSIS - SITE #1 INVER GROVE HEIGHTS Study Area #1 is located within Inver Grove Heights. The site lies 1/4 mile south of Cliff Road, west of Albavar Path, east of the Eagan/Inver Grove Heights border and south of several large, single family parcels. The study area is central to Park Service Area 36E and the Inver Grove Heights neighborhood south of Cliff Road and west of County Road 73. (See Figure #3) The study area is comprised of approximately 25 acres which can effectively support a smaller park parcel. Two meadow areas of 10 acres each, with slopes averaging 2 - 7%, lie to the north and west. A seven acre wooded pond area with shoreline slopes of 15 - 30% lies to the southeast. The woods adjacent to the pond are primarily matured red oaks, hophornbeam and aspens. An evergreen and red oak stand lie south of the western meadow. The meadow areas are cultivated in cash crops. A majority of the drainage flows to the pond. The pond is not currently tied into the Inver Grove Heights storm sewer system. The pond and woodland resources are of high visual and ecologic quality providing the potential for passive recreation opportunity. The meadows flat to moderate slopes and lack of significant vegetation provide opportunity for active use facilities such as open play area, playground, hardcourt and parking lot. Development costs would be low to moderate due to efficient grading, compatible vehicular access, structural soils and no utilities. The study areas geometric configuration allows flexible park layout maximizing design potential, as well as development efficiencies. Acquisition would be possible via a purchase of the parcel from a single or possibly two landowners. Staff estimates that the 25 acre study area could be reduced in size to 10 - 14 acres resulting in an estimated acquisition cost range of $ 120,000 to $ 182,000. A joint governmental agreement between Inver Grove Heights and Eagan would be necessary to define acquisition, development, maintenance and operational responsibilities and costs. Subsequent to staffs evaluation of study area # 1, a meeting was held with staff members from Inver Grove Heights to discuss the joint park concept. Inver Grove Heights and staff indicated an openness to the concept, but needed to evaluate their yet to be adopted Comprehensive Parks System Plan. At a second meeting, Inver Grove staff explained that their philosophy for parkland classification utilizes 40 acre minimum park preserves to serve /3. PARK SERVICE AREA 36E PAGE FOUR rural populations. These preserves are strategically placed throughout their city optimizing population bases and service areas. Unfortunately, the 400 - 500 Inver Grove Heights residents within the study area were to be served via a park north of Cliff Road. This conclusion therefore stymies the viability of a joint park concept and Study Area #1. ANALYSIS - STUDY SITE #2 EAGAN Study Site #2 is located within Eagan. The site lies within the southwest corner of the proposed Weston Hills Addition adjacent to Pond LP-27 and the Chicago, Milwaukee, St. Paul and Pacific Railroad. (See Figure #4) This study area is small comprising only 18 acres. The parcel is characterized by a rectangular configuration oriented northeast to southwest approximately 1,300' in length by 600' wide. This geometric configuration is based on a strong topographic characteristic of a pond to the southwest with a plateau depression to the northeast. The plateau area is predominantly flat to moderate with slopes ranging from 4 - 8%. The pond edge is encircled with slopes ranging from 4 to 20% and covered with overstory trees. Mature oak trees ring the northeast side of the pond. The northwest edge of the pond contains a mixed tree mass predominantly aspen, oaks, sugar maple and willow. The plateau area is comprised of herbaceous plant material and may be suspect to poor soils. In order to be conclusive, additional geo-technical evaluation is necessary. A majority of the watershed within the study are drains to Pond LP-27. Approximately 13 acres outside the study area drains through the plateau prior to outletting into Pond JP-27. The pond is not currently tied into Eagan's storm sewer system. The Comprehensive Water Quality Plan designates the pond for wildlife habitat. The pond and adjacent woodland resource are currently of high visual quality and could provide passive recreation opportunities. The plateau with its flat to moderate slopes and lack of significant vegetation provides opportunity for active use facilities. Development costs would be low to moderate based on efficient grading, compatible vehicular access and no need for utilities. The uncertain development item is whether soil amendments would be necessary to provide a structural base for the parking area. The small developmental area of the plateau provides minimal design flexibility. The railroad, oak trees and pond provide essentially a non-expandable development edge. Any expansion in acreage to, accommodate additional active facility development could only occur to the south and east. The areas south and east of the plateau area are characterized by a 10 - 20' vertical slope with gradients ranging from 10 - 20 Facility placement outside of the flatter plateau area onto these slopes increase design flexibility, but also increase grading costs and acquisition area. PARK SERVICE AREA 36E PAGE FIVE Acquisition could be done via parks dedication of 6.3 acres within the Weston Hills Development or possibly through purchase. It appears that the developer prefers a cash dedication of approximately $94,000 in lieu of a land dedication. The cash dedication could then be used for either acquisition and/or development costs. The developer tentatively considered a land dedication subject to the City providing cash credit toward the pond and adjacent steep slopes. This credit could account for approximately 2.1 acres leaving a balance of 4.2 acres within the plateau area. Staff's preliminary evaluation indicates the remaining 4.2 acres within the plateau area cannot support the typical, active facility program without significant grading and the removal of oak trees. The small developmental area provides extreme influence on facility layout and flexibility. The land equivalent to the $94,000 park dedication would essentially purchase acreage characterized by a pond, trees and terrain of minimal value to active facility needs. The option of accepting a smaller portion of the pond and a larger developmentally efficient area within the plateau is a more equitable and effective parkland acquisition. This option provides a viable park which can accommodate a balanced facility program. The developer felt this approach. to parkland siting does not accommodate the layout and economics of the Weston Hills development. ANALYSIS STUDY SITE #3 Study Site #3 is located within Eagan. The site lies south of Farm Road, west of the Inver Grove Heights Eagan border and north of a 40 acre tree farm. (See Figure #5) The study area is approximately 22 acres which can effectively support a smaller park parcel. The area is characterized by a square geometric configuration with the southern 1/2 being a flat meadow and the northern half being a combination of meadow and low wooded area. The southern meadow is currently utilized for cash crops and has slopes ranging from 2 - 10%. The northern area topography has slopes ranging from 2 - 6%. The study area is void of significant vegetation, although wetland tree varieties are located within its northeast comer. A majority of the drainage flows to a small wetland located within this wooded area. This four acre wooded wetland area offers minimal visual or habitat qualities in regards to parkland development. The remaining flat meadow areas, which are void of significant vegetation, provide opportunity for active use facilities such as open play area, playground, hardcourt and parking lot. Development costs in this study area would be low to moderate due to efficient grading, compatible vehicular access, structural soils and utilities. The geometric configuration and available acreage allows for flexible park layout maximizing design as well as development efficiencies. Resource based facilities are not provided for within this study area. Enhancement of the small low area or reforestation may be a viable developmental consideration to provide some passive use opportunities. PARK SERVICE AREA 36E PAGE SIX Acquisition would be possible via purchase from one or two land owners. The smaller size of the parcels does not support a parkland dedication alternative. Staff estimates that the 22 acre study area could be reduced in size to a 4 - 7 acre park. The estimated acquisition cost may range from $48,000 to $91,000. In consideration of the limited parkland opportunities within Park Service Area 36E, the use of condemnation may be a viable acquisition methodology if the seller contests the City's pursuit for an agreeable purchase. SUMMARY The most complimentary park site, capable of serving both Eagan and Inver Grove Heights is within Study Area #1. The Inver Grove Heights Parks Systems Plan reflects a park to the north, thus eliminating this study area alternative. Therefore, a small park within Eagan to serve the potential 1,300 residents seems appropriate. Study Area #2 within the proposed Weston Hills plat indicates that a 6.3 acre dedication could be made, but that there would be a significant loss of vegetation and higher development cost in order to meet typical parkland design and layout standards. Study Area #3 provides property that is developmentally cost efficient and provides design flexibility. The resource based opportunities are not available, but could be provided via the design process. FOR COMMISSION ACTION The Commission may consider the following recommendations: o A park is needed to serve residents within P.S.A. 36E. o To recommend parkland designation within the preferred study area. o To provide staff with the preferred acquisition methodology and approach. KV/SS/bls -ie1 DR f 1L RD N AILANi +v ~ fA Q wit n = r` °1 cry i~r1 ~It N MAY LAKE FREE EAf. RUTH l~~ ~ p ~ E ARAB awl z Qp o QO !c , L,4,, E CLIFF RD Ir' 7 OAK POND E NIL L S PARK VI (l~ LLAN / t DIDDLE NE. NW o ?J r \I - ~BAA- NAUVM , HALL SW FARM N • ' • 120TH STR ET W. 10 6501 5001 ;row By rs Drowig TitM Stephen FIGURE #1 Dote % PARK SERVICE AREA #36E n 1/5/92 AREA LOCATION MAP • f.. ATL4Nr 1 to Q ^ M1 -AN 'lot u 4 N. MAY LAKE GREE 0. EAF M awl z GQ C 4j r LA,,E ASAA CLIFF RD Ir-: OAK POND \V I E. HILLS PARK 1L~ LLAN ' IDDLE NW o NE / TUDY REA tt2 + U::DYAREA#1 r` 1 NAUV00 f W TUDY AREA #3 HALL IT, FARM GUN SW SE EAGAN INVER GROVE HEIGHTS 120TH STR ET W. ROSEM UNT to 650 5001 lB. pr mm By: v ,rowing Title tephen FIGURE #2 ' ~au~c •o. Dote: PARK SERVICE AREA #36E /5/92 AREA LOCATION MAP . 'AN L E R / e 1 • of" S Iwo .1 I Mors •ee r Awe or 9 I J w: rnn dp 0 lobe- jW 01 ILI_ fe ri 3-4 IWO 41 v . , • -we 1 \ ` /III 'It 1 1 .STUDY ARE 11 6 -V NORTH 0 200 400 ?r Drawing TitITIGURE #3 Sulliva PARK STUDY AREA #1 Q J92 c JOINT COMMUNITY PARK CO EPT _i r\ ; ~ - • • , • ` J/ 111 ; Ic 1000000 o•• ` ' C-MUDY AREA #2 I _ /p~~•; v.I 1• " / FART QF 11? t 10 1`. . X11 ~ j •`i 11 ••i.....• • .r b 1, ! t 11 ' ` • - .r- 200 400 NORTH 11 0 DrSoteph~ Drawing TitFIGURE #4 Ste: Doote CA OF PARK STUDY AREA #2 ~QUM No. 1/5/92 PARK SERVICE AREA #36E III. , I yT=' MOW" -two , 1 1 ' ~r 1 _ DART OF' P ' - ~ 1 ley jp- ClS-76 016. 6 ° Frc 4 IV, ..STUDY AREA #3 1 1 ~ I 1 1O 1 ! - - / AVIS I C= •.1?+a r S, 111 , , ; ~ ~ 1 ~/vrer•r a L/ 1 ' oloi4 7:7 NORTH 0 200 400 shown By' to Drawing Title Stephen HGURE #5 Sullivan PARK STUDY AREA #3 •o. Date: 1/5/92 PARK SERVICE AREA #36E MEMORANDUM TO: ADVISORY PARKS, RECREATION & NATURAL RESOURCE COMMISSION FROM: KEN VRAA, DIRECTOR OF PARKS & RECREATION DATE: JANUARY 6, 1992 RE: TRAILS ON DIFFLEY ROAD - EAST OF DODD ROAD BACKGROUND Dakota County is preparing preliminary plans for the upgrading of Diffley (County Road #30) from Blueberry to Highway #3. The City's plans have previously identified a bike trail along this section of roadway. Now that the County has begun preliminary planning of this roadway, the issues regarding construction have become much more focused - particularly with the. steep slide slopes and road grades through this section of road. ISSUE The County has inquired if, rather than having off road bike trails, 8 ft wide bike lanes on Diffley (County Road #30) would be acceptable to the City for that segment of the road east of Dodd to Highway #3. PROPOSAL Diffley is considered to be a five (5) lane road; two lanes each direction with a fifth center lane for left hand turns. However, east of Dodd Road, the County is proposing to construct a road surface 52 feet wide. This road width would provide for a twelve foot wide lane in each direction; a twelve foot wide center lane, and two (2) eight feet wide trails, one on each side of the road, but within the curb. (See attached diagram) DISCUSSION In reviewing this proposal, staff reviewed traffic counts on County Road #30, between Lexington Avenue and Braddock, the ADT's amount to 9,000; between Braddock and Dodd, the number drops off to 4,200. East of Dodd Road ADT's drop off to 3,100 and 2,500. East of County Side drive to Highway #3, due to the fact that County Road 30 will probably not go beyond Highway #3, it is not likely that traffic counts between Dodd and Highway #`3 will grow significantly over the years, despite expected residential development on both sides of the road. ~vf . l TRAILS ON DIFFLEY ROAD PAGE TWO In reviewing the MN Dot Bikeway design manual, dated February 8, 1983, the as "good" design and traffic load of this road section would classify the bikeway designation. Good is the highest of the seven categories identified for bike classification. An alternative is to have the trails off the road, as is currently in place along that portion of County Road #30, now finished. However, the steep slopes would require extensive grading and result in a loss of a substantial number of trees and require expensive retaining walls to facilitate any off-road trails. Another alternative would be to simply go to a single trail on one side of the road through this one section. Staffs opinion is that this may be a disservice due to the fact that development on both sides of the road will be residential. It is envisioned that the on road bikeways - given the good trailway classification - would perhaps be more acceptable than having only one off road trail. FOR COMMISSION ACTION: The Commission is asked to review this issue with staff and provide some direction, and subsequently to Dakota County for engineering purposes. It is staff's impression, given the steep slide slopes and loss of trees, that the alternative proposed by the County is a sound alternative worth a close review. KV/bls ~3. 01/03/92 17:06 DAKOTA COINTY-I+ESTEW SERV. OR. 001 RECEIVED JAN 3.1992 N PoWt" brand fax IransmiI(al memo 7671 #01"1004, . nt# IPOPL Ph Ls ro igI-4G L exi?n ra~oloek tlr? ' podel N so. AidrfTn. 2 52' 8' 12' 12' 12' 8' W W Z Z J J J J U. )rown 8y: b 0 vr, Drawing Title cit a ~agar~ nousK wo. Dote 14.*« The winter of 1991/92 has proven to be one of the most difficult to deal with in recent memory. After removing more than five feet of snow from the rinks in November, staff were able to accelerate the flooding operation in early December for the planned opening on December 20th. Unfortunately, shortly after the opening daily high temperatures hovered in the mid-to-upper 30's. After two weeks of unseasonable mild conditions, the City was forced to close its rinks for ice skating on Saturday, January 4th. However, some rinks remained open for boot hockey on that same week-end. As soon as the temperatures cool, if they do, the maintenance division will actively pursue restoration of the skating surfaces for the remainder of the season. 15.*« Final preparations for the Trapp Farm Sledding facility were made in late November, and early December. These preparatory activities included installation of the snow fence on the sledding hill, setting up protective bay bales, delivery of more than 80 sledding tubes, light installation, aiming and signage. Two changes which have aided a safe and efficient operation of the hill included a new system for securing the fence and corridor area and a portable storage container for the sledding tubes. (The past tubes were chained outside or put in the shelter building). Decorative holiday lights were also added to the warming shelter, offering an element to the winter decor. 16.*« During the month of December the Forestry Division actively continued its program of annual winter tree pruning in the City parks. Forestry staff also assisted the maintenance division with snow removal and flooding of the skating rinks, as indicated by weather conditions and personnel needs. On Friday, December 20, the Forestry Division submitted its annual application to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources for designation as a "Tree City U.S.A." community. In addition, City Forester Tom Schuster, also prepared application for the National Arbor Day Foundation's new "Thee City U.S.A. Growth Award". This award is given only to those communities who have actively pursued achievements in the areas of public education, youth programs, forestry planning and tree management. 17.*« The City's two new forestry brochures entitled "Planting and Maintenance of Trees" and "Trees in our Environment" are currently in publication and should be ready for distribution at the Commission meeting at January 10, 1992. Thanks again to those Commission members who commented on the first draft of these brochures. 18.*« The lake aeration system was set-up and began operation at Fish Lake on Friday, January 3, 1992. The Department of Natural Resources reported that dissolved oxygen levels in the lake had reached 2.0 parts per million near the bottom and advised that the system be activated. The aerator is situated on the north shoreline on the lake near the D.N.R. fishing pier. Included with installation of the aeration system was warning signage and complete enclosure of the aerator and baffle with orange safety fencing. In addition, notices were made in the local newspapers and a mailing was sent to adjacent neighbors cautioning the public regarding potential hazards related with this equipment. 19.*- Another upgrade to the old Rahn shelter building was made in the month of December with the installation of a new vinyl floor in the auxiliary "coaches room" of this building. The department has also taken delivery on acoustical ceiling tiles for the same room, which should be installed sometime during the month of January. These two improvements will greatly enhance the function of this facility for recreation and tiny tots programs. 20!« On December 17, 1991, the City Council awarded a bid to Ruffridge Johnson Company for the purchase of a new 1992 2100 gallon flusher truck. On. January 2, 1992, management staff met with representatives from Ruffridge Johnson and their suppliers to discuss in detail the specifications for this new truck and to clarify any details prior to its fabrication. Parks and Recreation Department expects to take delivery on the new flusher truck some time in April or May. 21 The Schwanz Lake Clean Water Partnership project continues to move toward completion. In December, the computer modeling and data assessment components were completed by City staff and the City's consultant, respectively. Alternatives for Improving Schwanz Lake water quality will be identified and evaluated for their cost-effectiveness in January and February, 1992. A meeting with the interested public will be held to discuss study findings and treatment alternatives will be held in mid-March and the final report with specific recommendations is expected to be completed in July. 22*4( A rough draft of a water quality brochure has been completed. The brochure takes an "imaginative" approach to informing residents about their role in helping protect lake water quality. The brochure will be sent out with the May edition of the City newsletter. 23.•« Plat review associated with land development activity has increased markedly in the last month. Five preliminary plat applications - 2 commercial and 3 residential covering almost 160 acres - were submitted in December for City review and approval. Recommended water quality protection measures were developed for all developments, including cash dedications for the two commercial developments, treatment ponds for two residential developments and a combination of cash and ponding for the remaining residential development.