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ORONO PARKS, OPEN SPACE AND TRAILS COMMISSION MEETING <br /> MINUTES FOR JANUARY 3, 2000 <br /> Meyers indicated he would be able to line up some volunteers who would be willing to help <br /> construct the boulder borders as well as the planting beds, noting that they would need <br /> the City to haul the top soil in. <br /> McDermott commented City Staff could haul in the top soil and perform the necessary <br /> grading on the site, with the local residents constructing the boulder borders and the planting <br /> beds. <br /> McDermott stated as it relates to the walkway and trail, the Parks Commission is in support of a <br /> sidewalk to the railroad tracks. <br /> Gappa indicated state funding would be available to help construct the sidewalk, which would help <br /> keep pedestrians off the roadway. <br /> Meyers commented the sidewalk and retaining wall would make a very attractive entryway into the <br /> Navarre area and would make it a more pedestrian-friendly city. Meyers stated in his opinion this <br /> sidewalk and trail system should be included in the City's comprehensive plan. <br /> Gappa indicated the City may not be able to construct the sidewalk for approximately one more <br /> year, but noted once constructed, would provide for safer pedestrian travel from the north to the <br /> park and the commercial area for the neighborhood residents. Gappa pointed out the trail through <br /> the park would not be maintained during the winter due to a lack of equipment and the fact that the <br /> trails tend to last longer if they are not plowed during the winter. <br /> McDermott inquired whether the City would need to acquire any easements for the sidewalk. <br /> Gappa stated he would need to review the situation to see if the City currently has any easements <br /> in this area. Gappa remarked the City could possibly be reimbursed for the easements as <br /> part of the state aid for the sidewalk. <br /> Meyers indicated he would be willing to delay construction of the sidewalk to see if the City is able <br /> to obtain state funding for this project. <br /> It was the consensus of the Park Commission to delay construction of the sidewalk along <br /> County Road 19 to see if the City is eligible to receive state funding for this project. <br /> Gappa pointed out City Staff is recommending that bituminous trails be constructed instead of <br /> limestone trails. Gappa stated bituminous trails require less maintenance and would provide better <br /> access for the disabled. The cost difference is approximately $5,500 between the two surfaces. <br /> McDermott commented the drinking fountain would probably need to be eliminated due to the costs <br /> involved. <br /> Gappa stated the costs for the drinking fountain would be approximately $5,600. <br /> McDermott stated he will see whether he can obtain a lower price for the drinking fountain. <br /> It was the consensus of the Park Commission that they would like to see a drinking fountain installed <br /> at this park. <br /> McDermott suggested keeping the water fountain in the plan to see whether the City Council would be <br /> willing to approve that item. <br /> Page 4 <br />