04-04-1994 Park Commission Minutes

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MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF THE ORONO PARK COMMISSION HELD ON APRIL 4, 1994 (#2) CONSIDERATION OF TANDEM PROPERTIES (DICKEY PROPERTY) SUBDIVISION (CONTINUED) roadway with an 8' gravel shoulder, which was a cost effective means of construction. Gerhardson commented that there could be maintenance problems with this design as the equipment was not designed to maintain narrow strips, and while the trail itself would not be plowed during the winter months, damage could occur to the shoulder area of the roadway. Gustafson reviewed the possible costs for the trail segment and noted that if the City opts for the trail separated by the shoulder it would cost approximately $23/foot and if the alternative including the curb and gutter is selected the costs could run approximately $40/foot. The consensus of the Park Commission was that the trail segment along the Dickey property needs to be part of the overall trail plan and not just an isolated segment. Gustafson commented that if the City simply acquires an easement with the intent of constructing the trail segment in the future, they could encounter difficulties once the property is developed, because those homeowners will not want a trail running through their back yards. Discussion ensued regarding the timing of the trail construction and whether to make the connection to the Luce Line Trail at the same time. It was felt that if the Park Commission requests the Council to approve the connecting segment of the trail at the same time as they approve construction of the segment along the Dickey Property, it would give them a commitment to the overall trail concept plan. Chair Flint stated he would recommend to the Council to make the connection to the Luce Line at this time. With respect to use of MSA funding, Wilson commented she felt that roadway reconstruction also was very important, and this item had precedence over the trail construction, which might mean postponement of trail construction. Gustafson discussed the potential for penalties resulting for cities which had large MSA balances left at the end of the year; however, he noted that most cities have some balances left to avoid running out of funds. White moved, Ilse seconded, to recommend construction of the separated bike trail from Watertown Road to the Luce Line at this time and that the developer pay for the portion of the trail located on the Dickey property and MSA funds be used for the remainder of the construction from the Dickey property to the Luce Line. Wilson moved, McMillan seconded, to amend the motion to include that construction of the trail segment from Watertown Road to the Luce Line shall occur as part of the Old Crystal Road Bike Trail. Ayes 5, nays 0 to the amendment. Chair Flint called for a vote on the motion as amended. Ayes 5, nays 0. Discussion ensued regarding which trail type would be best from the Dickey property south to the Luce Line. The Commission concluded to build whichever construction 3