HomeMy WebLinkAbout09-05-2017 Park Commission PacketAGENDA
City of Orono Park Commission Meeting for Tuesday, September 511, 2017, 6:30 PM
Orono Council Chambers, 2780 Kelley Parkway, Orono, MN 55356
952-249-4600 / www.ci.orono.mn.us
Audience Members:
Please sign in for the public record if you wish to address the Park Commission. The sign in sheet is in the lobby.
The Park Commission is an advisory body to the City Council. If action is taken on any items on this agenda, it will be
scheduled for an upcoming City Council meeting.
CALL TO ORDER.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES.
1. May 1st, 2017 Park Commission Meeting Minutes
2. August 7th, 2017 Park Commission Work Session Minutes
PUBLIC COMMENT.
STAFF REPORTS.
3. Dock Disposition at Carman and Fredrick Streets
4. Community Management Plan 2040 update
5. Public Works Parks Update
CHAIRMAN'S REPORT.
6. Lurton Park Update.
7. Saga Hills Update
SPECIAL COMMITTEE REPORTS.
8. Commissioner's Updates
ADJOURNMENT.
MINUTES OF THE
ORONO PARK COMMISSION MEETING
Monday, May 1, 2017
6:30 o'clock p.m.
ROLL CALL
M
The Orono Park Commission met on the above-mentioned date with the following members present:
Chair Rick Meyers, Commissioners Jan Berg, Brenda Johnson, Bryce Johnson, Beth Meyers, Brian
Reath, Julie Ruegemer, and Natalie Williams. Alternative Rich Carter was present. Representing Staff
were Public Works Director/City Engineer Adam Edwards, and Recorder Jackie Young. Council
Member Victoria Seals and Mayor Walsh were present.
Chair Meyers called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m., followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
1. MARCH 6, 2017, PARK COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES
Berg moved, Ruegemer seconded, to approve the minutes of the Orono Park Commission meeting
as submitted. VOTE: Ayes 7, Nays 0.
PUBLIC COMMENT
None
CHAIRMAN'S REPORT
Meyers stated he has provided the list of parks that the park commissioners signed up for to
Adam Edwards so it can be finalized.
STAFF REPORTS
2. SAGA HILLS PARK IMPROVEMENT PLAN UPDATE
Edwards stated since the last Park Commission meeting, the improvement plan proceeded forwarded to
the City Council, who authorized Staff to solicit quotes for the project. The low bid from Minnesota
Native Landscapes was approved in the amount of $19,597.50 to perform the tree clearing and
revegetation of 4.5 acres of hilltop. The contractor is waiting for the area to dry out so they can begin
work.
Edwards reported he has also been working with Sentence to Serve to perform clearing along the trails
and that the Public Works Department will be installing the signs once the trails are completed.
Roath asked if the cost is approximately half of what was anticipated.
Edwards indicated originally $26,000 was allocated for this portion and it came in at $19,597, but there
are some contingency items that will be completed that are not included in that amount.
Bryce Johnson asked if the cost for the benches is $620.
Edwards stated they are using the Nature Park benches without the back that are cheaper than the other
benches. Edwards indicated they are similar to what was installed at French Creek and are estimated at
Page 1 of 9
MINUTES OF THE
ORONO PARK COMMISSION MEETING
Monday, May 1, 2017
6:30 o'clock p.m.
$310 apiece. The benches installed at the active parks were approximately $700 apiece, which does not
include the concrete pad.
Meyers noted the benches do not need to be purchased immediately and that the Park Commission could
discuss that at a later time.
Bryce Johnson stated he submitted a draft to the City Clerk today regarding the coming improvements to
Saga Park for the City newsletter. Johnson requested Adam review that to ensure all the information is
correct.
Edwards stated the improvements will be done sometime this summer and that work will likely begin the
end of May, early June.
3. NORTH ARM TRAIL FEASIBILITY STUDY
Edwards noted last year the Park Commission requested a feasibility study be completed for a possible
trail connection from West Branch Road to the Lakeville Legacy Park along the south side of North Arm
Drive. The study has been completed and the cost of trail construction is estimated to be around $79,650.
The trail would be approximately one-half mile in length and four feet wide consisting of aggregate.
Edwards stated he would recommend the trail be incorporated into the capital improvement plan if the
Park Commission would like to complete the trail in the near future. Otherwise the trail could be added to
the Comprehensive Plan Update.
Meyers noted the Park Commission initially discussed the trees hanging over the road resulting in poor
visibility and that they should be cut back. It was felt that something more could be done in that area to
help pedestrians walk down to the park, which resulted in the feasibility study. Meyers stated the cutting
back of the trees has improved the visibility considerably.
Bryce Johnson stated in his view, given the narrowness of the road, the speed of the vehicles, and more
pedestrians walking in the area, a trail would add some safety for the pedestrians. Johnson noted this is
probably the only place in Orono where a trail would be located along a Native American trail. Johnson
stated the Shakopee Greenfield Trail goes along that spot. Given the history, the Park Commission could
perhaps explore some funding from the Native American people.
Johnson indicated the goal is to keep the trail more natural. Johnson stated he understands a few
neighbors have raised a concern about losing their privacy with the trail, but that in his view that will not
be the case since it will be a walking path. Johnson stated the Park Commission could also replace some
of the trees that would need to be removed even though they are volunteer trees. Johnson stated it is his
belief there would be a lot of support from the residents in the Loma Linda area and the Forest Lake area.
Meyers stated a public hearing on the trail would probably be appropriate prior to going forward with the
trail.
Bryce Johnson stated he would like to know how much dirt would be moved and how many trees would
need to be removed prior to the public hearing.
Page 2 of 9
MINUTES OF THE
ORONO PARK COMMISSION MEETING
Monday, May 1, 2017
6:30 o'clock p.m.
Edwards noted the feasibility study is estimating 650 cubic yards of dirt would need to be moved. A tree
survey was not completed since it is normally done during the design stage. Edwards stated most of those
trees could be removed since they are mainly scrub trees, which would reduce screening for the people
who live on the east side of the road temporarily until other trees are planted.
Meyers asked if the culverts are included in the excavation fee.
Edwards indicated the road and drainage issues will need to be addressed at some point and were not
included in the feasibility study. The culverts that go underneath the road would not necessarily be
impacted unless a culvert extension is required. The drainage issues would be handled under the
Stormwater Fund.
Ruegemer asked if any Native American grants have been looked into.
Brenda Johnson indicated she called the History Center and was told there may be a grant available to
investigate the history of the area if the Park Commission is interested. Johnson stated to her knowledge
there is also a state office that might have some money available but they have not been contacted yet.
Ruegemer stated Hennepin County may also have a grant available for a trail.
Meyers requested Brenda continue to explore the Native American grant and Brian explore the Hennepin
County grant.
(Ruegemer left the meeting at 6:52 p.m. Alternate Beth Meyers served as Julie's replacement)
Roath asked if there is a future expansion possibility to the north all the way to County Road 19.
Meyers indicated it would be difficult to add a trail since the road is fairly narrow and the City does not
have a trail easement in that area.
Brenda Johnson noted a future trail is listed on Hennepin County's Bikes and Trails Plans.
Roath asked if there is a lot of pedestrian traffic along West Branch all the way to County Road 19
Meyers stated the Legacy Park near the Lakeville development is starting to become more popular and
that there is a group of people planning a gazebo and some other improvements that will attract more
people.
Bryce Johnson stated some of the residents had the impression that the area was being prepped for a trail
and that they were concerned about the impacts. Johnson stated he would like to get a feel for how much
of an impact the trail would have prior to moving forward on the trail.
Edwards stated the Public Works Department was working with Bolton & Menk on the feasibility study
and that they cut down some trees to provide better visibility, which may have given the residents that
impression. Edwards indicated he can have someone from Bolton & Menk attend the next work session.
Meyers stated at the next work session the Park Commission can discuss the various grants and meet with
Bolton & Menk.
Page 3 of 9
MINUTES OF THE
ORONO PARK COMMISSION MEETING
Monday, May 1, 2017
6:30 o'clock p.m.
4. SPORTS FIELD USE
Edwards stated the Orono Youth Football Association has requested use of space at Hackberry Park
during the fall of 2017 for their flag football program. The Orono Thunder Soccer Club has also
expressed an interest in using some Orono park space for practices. Edwards noted the City does not
have a formal policy for reserving park space for athletics and that construction at the school will
eliminate some of the practice fields for the short term.
Edwards requested the Park Commission discuss the Orono Youth Football Association's request as well
as the concept of sports teams using park space for practice. Hackberry and Bederwood Parks have had
sports teams use them in the past and that Crystal Bay Park is also a possibility. Edwards stated in his
view none of the city parks are sufficient for high school use but that they have been used in the past for
younger teams.
Williams stated there is also a flat space at Antoine Park that could be used.
Edwards noted available parking would also need to be taken into consideration. Edwards stated the
advantage to allowing this is that people will be using the parks, but the negative is the impact on the
immediate neighborhood if there is a lot of traffic and congestion being created. Edwards noted use of
the parks for practice would result in people dropping their kids off rather than people staying for a game.
Roath stated the amount of use, the impact on the neighborhood, and the parking needs to be taken into
consideration. Roath stated on the surface the proposal from the Orono Youth Football Association
appears to be fine and would increase the possibility of obtaining grants if the City can demonstrate they
are partnering with other groups. Roath stated in his view Hackberry Park would be good for practice and
that he does not have a problem with it.
Brenda Johnson stated the Park Commission could also perhaps explore whether there are nearby cities
that Orono can partner with for practice sessions. Johnson stated parking is an issue as well as impacts to
the neighborhood and that those may need to be dealt with at some point but that she is in favor of
partnering with the Orono Youth Football Association.
Berg stated she likes the idea since it increases use of the parks and keeps the youth in the community but
that they have to ensure the use is not imposing on the neighborhood.
Bryce Johnson stated Bederwood is underutilized and that the residents in the area understand they are
active parks. Johnson stated he can understand the issue about the impact to the neighborhood but that in
his view the parks should be used.
Beth Meyers stated she is in favor of the request.
Williams indicated she also feels it is a good idea.
Meyers noted no PA system would be used, no lights would be installed, and that it would be a temporary
thing. Meyers stated perhaps an ending time could be imposed to help limit the impact on the
neighborhood.
Williams noted these sports are not year-round either
Page 4 of 9
MINUTES OF THE
ORONO PARK COMMISSION MEETING
Monday, May 1, 2017
6:30 o'clock p.m.
Edwards stated the specific request from the Orono Youth Football Association is for Tuesday and
Thursday nights from August 22 through September 28 from 5:30 to 8 p.m. The association does not
need any goal posts and they will do the line marking. The age of the players are second and third
graders.
Meyers asked if the fee is $20 a time for a total of $240.
Edwards indicated that is what Mr. Streich suggested.
Council Member Seals suggested the Park Commission develop a fee and registration process for use of
the city parks. Seals stated in her view Bederwood Park is a perfect spot for practice sessions since it has
a big parking lot and that it would help increase usage of the parks, which has gone down. Seals stated
the Park Commission could designate Bederwood just for soccer.
Edwards stated he will put together a registration process to bring forward to the City Council with a
standard fee.
Berg moved, Bryce Johnson seconded, to approve the Orono Youth Football Association's request
to use Hackberry Park for the fall of 2017 per their letter. VOTE: Ayes 7, Nays 0.
Edwards stated other teams might approach the City with similar requests and that a broader reservation
system should perhaps be developed.
Bryce Johnson suggested a subcommittee be formed to look at that.
It was the consensus of the Park Commission to form a subcommittee to look into other sports using city
parks and then discuss it at the next work session. Brian, Natalie and Beth volunteered to be on
subcommittee.
SPECIAL COMMITTEE REPORTS
5. ADOPT -A -PARK SIGNS
Edwards noted Commissioner Ruegemer had suggested the Park Commission discuss whether
adopt -a -park signs be installed at the parks. These signs would be similar to adopt -a -highway signs.
Meyers stated in his view this is a good idea and that Orono already has three parks that have been
adopted. Meyers stated his only concerns are the location of the signs and the size of the sign.
Edwards indicated he went online to look at signs and that he has created an 18" x 12" mockup sign that
could be installed at the parks that have been adopted and also at the parks that have not been adopted.
Edwards indicated a decal could be placed in the area where it says name here.
Meyers recommended some form of recognition be done at the end of the year for the people who have
volunteered to adopt a park, which would also help generate some publicity for the parks.
Edwards noted the signs are relatively inexpensive and would come out of the Parks Operating Budget
Page 5 of 9
MINUTES OF THE
ORONO PARK COMMISSION MEETING
Monday, May 1, 2017
6:30 o'clock p.m.
Williams asked whether the Park Commission should attempt to get businesses involved in adopting a
park.
Edwards stated the City's existing adopt -a -park policy does not prohibit businesses or organizations from
adopting a park.
Meyers stated signup for the program is available on the City's website.
Roath stated he likes the concept of the adopt -a -park program and that it is a good way to engage the
community. Roath stated the question is whether someone can sign up for the program and then never do
anything. Roath stated recognition of someone's efforts is one way to encourage participation and that
the mockup sign looks great. Roath stated he has received one inquiry from a family to adopt Lorton Park
and that in his view there is interest out there to adopt a park.
Bryce Johnson noted the volunteers would also work with the Park Commissioner assigned to that park,
which would help ensure the volunteers are doing appropriate work at the parks.
Meyers stated there probably should be some guidelines about tool usage and vegetation removal.
Brenda Johnson commented more than one family could adopt a park depending on what the needs of the
park are. Johnson stated there are businesses who actually encourage their employees to do community
service and that this could perhaps be some form of friendly competition among local businesses.
Johnson stated the volunteers would need to coordinate with Adam or the Park Commission to make sure
the people have some idea of what is expected of them.
Berg stated the Park Commission has not really worked at disseminating the adopt -a -park program and
that in her view both businesses and residents could be a part of the program. Berg stated the Park
Commission should set some guidelines on what the volunteers should and should not do and that the
Park Commissioner assigned to that park should be in contact with the volunteers and guide them.
Beth Meyers stated from a personal standpoint she asked about the adopt -a -park program and that she
would have liked more direction on what should be done. Meyers noted the City of Wayzata has
designated dates for buckthorn removal, flower planting, etc.
Williams agreed it would be a good idea to have one day to plant flowers, etc., that could be published in
the local newspaper.
Meyers stated he would like the program to involve more than just trash pickup and that he would like the
volunteers to accomplish something that is more meaningful. Meyers suggested the Park Commission
come up with some things for the volunteers to do at each of the parks.
Edwards stated a rough estimate for a sign is $50.
Meyers stated the nature parks would be a good place for the signs but that he is not sure there is much to
do at the more active parks.
Mayor Walsh stated another option would be to accept financial contributions to help fund cleanup
Page 6 of 9
MINUTES OF THE
ORONO PARK COMMISSION MEETING
Monday, May 1, 2017
6:30 o'clock p.m.
Meyers suggested purchasing two or three signs where there are already volunteers. Meyers stated he
could also do an interview with one of the local papers on Lorton Park and the Orono Thunder, which
would be free publicity for the program. Meyers suggested the adopt -a -park program be included on the
City's Facebook page and send out information on the program via an email blast.
It was the consensus of the Park Commission to order adopt -a -park signs for Navarre Park, Highwood
Park, and Lorton Park.
6. LURTON PARK GRAND OPENING UPDATE
Williams stated she is going to do a personal invitation to everyone who has purchased a permit to the
park. Williams stated it would basically be a save -the -date postcard.
Meyers noted Julie has the following vendors lined up for June 17: Westonka Animal Hospital, Chuck &
Don's Pet Food Store, Corner of Kindness Rescue, and a real estate agency that will be handing out free
water bottles.
Meyers stated he spoke to the police chief about the event and parking. Parking on the street will be
allowed during the event and that they are looking into renting some tents.
Williams noted the grand opening will take place from 1-3 p.m. on Saturday, June 17.
Edwards stated 209 permits have been issued as of today and that the money received for the permits goes
into the General Fund.
7. HENNEPIN COUNTY SPORTS GRANT UPDATE
Reath stated he has started researching the Hennepin County sports grant and that there are two grant tiers
available. One grant is for equipment and one grant is for actual facilities. Reath indicated he has
obtained a lot of information about what has been granted in the past and that Orono High School has
benefited from the grants as well as the soccer association. The equipment grant is given out twice a year
and the facilities grant is given out once a year. The deadline for the spring equipment grant has already
past and the next deadline is November for both types of grants.
Reath suggested the Park Commission pursue one or both grants and that the Park Commission has some
time to decide whether they would like to partner with an organization on the grant.
Meyers stated he was thinking about updating the City's sports courts and that in his view the City could
really use three of them. Meyers stated Spring Park and Tonka Bay both have a nice sports court.
Roath stated since the facility grant involves more money, it is likely Hennepin County would be looking
for the City to partner with someone. Roath stated in his view the City could put together two or three
grants together.
Edwards noted the City received an $8,700 equipment grant last year for infield grooming equipment and
that they partnered with the Orono Softball Association on that grant. The City also received a $5,000
grant from the Twins for fencing repairs at Bederwood Park. Edwards noted every year over $2 million is
awarded.
Page 7 of 9
MINUTES OF THE
ORONO PARK COMMISSION MEETING
Monday, May 1, 2017
6:30 o'clock p.m.
Meyers stated the City would be ready to move this year on the three basketball courts at Crystal Bay,
Hackberry and Navarre Park, but not necessarily on the soccer.
It was the consensus of the Park Commission to pursue the grants.
8. INFORMATION SIGN UPDATE
Bryce Johnson reported the Saga Hill signs will be submitted to the printer for actual production in the
near future and that a draft sign has been submitted to the Park Commissioners for Lorton. Johnson stated
he does have the finished version of the historical sign for Lurton and that those should be done in time
for the grand opening. In addition, material has been compiled for the Highwood sign.
Edwards indicated the Public Works Department has three or four frames for the signs and that they can
erect them as soon as they are ready.
Meyers commented the historical/informational signs are a good way to promote the parks and provides a
historical perspective on the parks.
9. COMMISSIONERS' UPDATES
Brenda Johnson asked if regular mowing is done at Seven Nations. Johnson noted it is difficult to walk
due to the thistles.
Edwards stated to his knowledge mowing is only done around the trail and parking area.
Brenda Johnson stated they should come up with a way to prevent thistles from flowering and spreading
their seeds.
Meyers stated a planting plan needs to be done for French Creek Park so it can be reviewed by the
Metropolitan Council
Edwards indicated he has talked to them and that they are fine with the improvements but that a plan
needs to be put together.
Johnson suggested placing the Park Commissioners' names on the website for the park they are
responsible for.
10. NEW BUSINESS
Williams noted she has been asked by some residents about how they go about putting in a request for a
garbage can on the looped trail. Williams stated a number of residents walk their dogs and that they
would like somewhere to dispose of the dog droppings. Williams stated it could possibly be located by
the baseball field.
Edwards stated one trail belongs to Three Rivers, and a portion of the trail along County Road 6 is
maintained by the school and a portion by the City. Edwards indicated he will look to see where one can
be located.
Page 8 of 9
MINUTES OF THE
ORONO PARK COMMISSION MEETING
Monday, May 1, 2017
6:30 o'clock p.m.
Berg stated Lydiard Beach should also have a garbage can.
Edwards stated garbage cans are placed at the parks but that it is more difficult to place them along trails
since Randy's Sanitation has to have a way to empty them.
Meyers suggested a small garbage be used rather than a larger one.
Reath asked whether there will be a meeting in July.
Edwards stated the Park Commission could meet on July 5 since July 3 is a holiday.
ADJOURNMENT
Berg moved, Brenda Johnson seconded, to adjourn the Orono Park Commission meeting at 8:03
p.m. VOTE: Ayes 7, Nays 0.
ATTEST:
Rick Meyers, Chair
Page 9 of 9
Orono Park Commission
Workshop Notes
1 pm, August 7, 2017
Orono City Hall
Attendees:
Orono Park Commissioners
Jan Berg
Brenda Johnson
Bryce Johnson
Rick Meyers
Brian Roath
Julie Ruegemer
Natalie Williams
Rick Carter - Alternate
Beth Davis - Alternate
Jeremy Barnhart, Community Development Director
David Gorman, Supervisor for Streets, Storm Sewer and Parks
Comprehensive Plan
Jeremy Barnhart led a discussion on the Parks, Open Spaces and Trails section of the Comprehensive Plan.
He noted that most of the background information and philosophy from the prior plan is still valid and that
there have not been changes that would require a major rewrite of the section. There was some discussion
about how the Comprehensive Plan is used as a guide when events impacting open space, parks and trails
arise. It was also noted that in the previous Plan this entire section was written in the absence of a Park
Commission, so this would be the first opportunity for this new Commission to participate. With this in
mind, Park Commissioners agreed to the following schedule for input:
September — Each Commissioner to READ the plan section, prepare questions, assignments etc.
and report at the September 5`h Park Commission meeting.
October - Park Commission Workshop to be dedicated to providing plan input
November - Report from October Workshop with formal recomendations and actions to be
made at the Park Commission monthly meeting.
Saga Hill Nature Area
The Workshop was joined by a member of the public, John Palmer, whose father had been instrumental in
the formation of Saga Hill Park and who himself has lived in the area for many years.
D1 Gorman reported on progress at Saga Hill Nature Area. Clearing has been done in the center of the park
and this will be followed by burning and planting in the spring. Any additional tree removal will be done by
the Orono Public Works Department. Traffic control gates are to be installed this coming week and two
signs that have already been received will soon be put up. In response to a question about the ground
cover in the center of the park, DJ indicated that it was a Minnesota Native Savannah mix and that more
information could be obtained from the contractor, Minnesota Native Landscape.
Approximately $25,000 of the $29,000 budget has been spent thus far. After additional discussion Park
Commissioners expressed support for the following:
• Widen the walking trail that connects the main loop to Garden Court to at least 6 feet.
• Create and erect signage describing the Big Woods part of the park.
• Review the grass planting plans with Minnesota Native Landscape
• Remove additional trees near the entrance and several that were left in the central cleared area
(Rick Meyers and Bryce Johnson to help identify)
• Keep the two large stones that were purchased in lieu of the five smaller ones intended for the
central sitting area. One could be placed at the entrance and another possibly where the entrance
trail joins the loop around the park.
Lurton Park
Rick Meyers reported that 425 permits have now been sold for the dog park. There was discussion about
possibly transitioning to a 12 month sticker instead of an annual pass, as the incentive to purchase an
annual pass decreases as the year progresses.
Meyers reported that Marcus Ostvig is planning an Eagle Scout project that includes:
• Cleanup of the small dog area
• Cleanup of trails in the small dog area
• Creation of a brush pile to provide shelter for ground -nesting birds and other small mammals
• Installation of a Wood Duck house
• Triming of trees in the small dog area
• Installation of a bench in the small dog area
A second Eagle Scout project has also been proposed that would include a dog agility course that could be
used for workshops or individual training.
Meyers also reported that there were problems with mud at the entrance of the park due to rain washing
away wood chips. Installation of erosion barriers will help but Meyers and Bryce Johnson are also
proposing the creation of a paver area at the entrance using Azek recycled plastic pavers. They have met
with Joe Lemmerman, a distributor/installer for Azek and received quotes for several areas. The areas
extend from the front of the informational signs through the first gate and then split and extend to the
gates leading to the large and small dog areas. The cost is approximatly $16/square foot installed. The area
in front of the gate would cost $1500 with another $500 for the area just inside of the gate. The two paths
leading to the large and small dog areas would add an additional $3000.
Once the pavers are installed, they can easily be removed and engraved to memorialize pets, events,
individuals, etc. Many projects of this type have been done in the area and in most cases the charge to
donors is $100 for engraving, the actual cost of which is approximatley $15. As a result, there is a way to
recoup the initial cost of the installation and, potentially, generate funds for additional projects within the
dog park.
Park Commissioners and alternates agreed to move forward with the paver installation with the following
input:
• The areas adjacent to the front gate should be done first at a cost of $2000.
• Rick and/or Bryce should inform the Council of this decision at the next council mtg (2 weeks)
• If/when engraving is offerred, a donation policy as well as a plan for administration needs to be
foremulated. Jan Berg volunteered to work on this.
Grant/ Athletic resurfacing update
Brian Roath reported on the status of a plan to install sport court surfaces in Orono parks, which included a
recent meeting with a Sport Court representative. The Sport Court representative said that a major cost
issue would be the condition of existing foundations. Three primary locations are being considered:
• Replacement of the existing half court basketball surface at the Navarre Park
• Installation of a full court surface at Crystal Bay
• Installation of a full court surface at Hackberry
The Navarre option could cost as much as $50,000, assuming removal of the existing surface and repouring of a
new one. A similar half court surface was installed at Spring Park. In that case, funding was provided by the
MinnesotaTwins.
Brian indicated he would also get a bid for a full court installation at Hackberry, as part of a grant application to the
Hennepin Youth Sports Program administered by the Minnesota Amateur Sports Commission. However there was
agreement that replacement of the Navarre half court would be the Park Commission's first priority. Brian
mentioned that Tonka Bay received a $10,000 grant for a $25,000 installation, which required the City or other
sources to provide the remaining $15,000.
Brian and Julie Ruegemer will write the Orono grant proposal, which is due in early November. It was noted that it
would be necessary to get a commitment from the Council for additional matching funds as part of the application.
Jan Berg suggested also considering local businesses as a source of matching funds.
Policy for rental/ reservation of Park Space Update — Subcommittee (Brian, Natalie and Beth)
Beth Davis brought up initial considerations on development of a policy for private rental of Orono park
facilities. In addition to Beth, the subcommittee considering this includes Brian Roath and Natalie Williams.
The subcommitte needs to complete a list of what facilities would be available, what minimum number of
people would be required and how this would impact the present requirement for a Special Event Permit.
Rick Meyers suggested that a good starting point for the subcommittee would be to discuss the possibilities
and issues with Chief of Police Correy Farniok.
Big Island Report
The status of Big Island is currently being reviewed by a committee of Orono individuals that include
representatives from the Park Comnmission. Rick Carter reported on some of the activities and issues
being tackled by this new committee. Activities already underway have included the first of several
volunteer clean-ups, plans for regular mowing, and a storage facility, which has been approved by the City
Council. Creation of a non-profit 501(c)(3) corporation to manage the island is being considered and a
Master Plan using Waconia's Coney Island as a prescendent is also planned. Additional meetings are
planned and Rick noted that input from the Minnehaha Watershed District will be important to any new
proposals.
Park Maintenance Update- DJ Goman
DJ discussed park maintenance from an overall staffing standpoint, noting that in addition to the Director
the Public Works Department staff includes eight workers, of which two are supervisors and four have at
least 25 years of service. The department has many responsibilities in addition to park maintenance and is
working hard to meet the expectations of the reactivited Park Commission as it develops improvement
plans for Orono's various parks. Commision members noted this was an important perspective to keep in
mind as plans are prioritized.
No additional topics were discussed and the workshop adjoured at 3pm.
Notes compiled by Bryce Johnson.
I,
PARK COMMISSION AGENDA ITEM
�F
Item No.: 3 Date: September 5", 2017
Item Description: Dock Disposition at Carman and Fredrick Streets
Presenter: Adam T. Edwards, P.E. Agenda Section: Staff Report
Dir, Public Works/City Engineer
1. Purpose. The purpose of this item is to gain Commission guidance on the disposition of the dock at
the city's lake access point 440 at Fredrick and Carman Streets.
2. Background. The City received a request from a resident to permanently remove the dock (Exhibit
A). The Community management plan list the site as a 30 foot platted right of way extending to the
shoreline with a fishing dock. Last fall we received notice from a resident that the dock was not used.
As an experiment we did not install the dock in the spring. However we received two separate complaint
about the missing dock so installed it earlier this summer.
COMMISION ACTION REQUESTED
Decision on disposition of the Dock at Fredric and Carman Streets
Exhibits
A. Resident Email requesting dock removal.
Prepared By: Reviewed By: Approved By:
Exhibit A
From: Timothy R. Brady [mailto:TRBRADY@msn.com]
Sent: Monday, August 07, 2017 4:21 PM
To: Adam Edwards <aedwards@ci.orono.mn.us>
Cc: Denny Walsh <dwalsh2@ci.orono.mn.us>; Richard Crosby <rcrosby@ci.orono.mn.us>; Wendy Dankey
<wdankey@ci.orono.mn.us>; Aaron H. Printup <aprintup@ci.orono.mn.us>; Victoria Seals
<vseals@ci.orono.mn.us>
Subject: Request to Permanently Remove the Carman Street City Dock
Adam
Per our discussion several weeks again regarding the recent re -installation of the city dock on Carman Street, as
mentioned, I have lived at 3555 Frederick Street for 14 years. Over the last several years, I have witnessed the city
dock being utilized as an overnight docking station for boats. When I have confronting the boat owners the
following morning, noting that the dock's purpose is for fishing and not overnight docking, I have been met with
extreme aggression. I do not recognize any of the boat owners, but do note that they appear hung over from the
previous night.
Adam, you and I discussed that the reason the dock was removed last fall was due to the inactivity of the dock in
past years. I agreed with that assessment, as I rarely saw anyone walking down the fire land and using the dock. I
would recommend contacting the neighbor to the east of me and the city dock - Eric Mercer (612 840-3412), in
order to confirm my observation. However, you stated that the reason the dock was brought back and installed
several weeks ago, was due to several neighbors requesting the dock.
I would like to note that in the past three weeks (see attached pictures) the dock has been used several times as a
drop and pick up for boaters (including rental pontoons). Adam, I believe you mentioned that the primary use of
the dock was for fishing. As an FYI, I have never observed anyone fishing off the dock. I would like to note that this
past Friday, a Rockvam rental pontoon was docked and anchored off the city dock. I was in my backyard with my
Labrador Retriever when several of the renters walked down the fire lane, with their dogs, to board the boat. One
of the dogs (a Springer) attacked my Labrador. The boaters did not even acknowledge the attack, they proceeded
to board the boat and then proceeded to nearly hit my neighbor's (Mercer's) dock as they left. In addition, another
boater who is from the neighborhood, who constantly utilizes the city dock to pick up people off the dock (picture
attached), was caught by my wife last year, stealing my neighbor's (the Mercers) Adirondack chairs, after he
docked his boat at the city dock.
Adam, I do not believe that this was the city's original intention when it began installing city docks. I should not
have to fear for the safety of my wife, three children and dog and the possible loss of personal property, due to the
presence of the public dock and its abuse. I have taken care of the city fire lane for 14 years. I cut the grass, fertilize
it and water it, all out of my own pocket, I have never asked the city for a penny in return. What I do ask is that the
outdated installation of a city dock be discontinued. It might have been a custom that began several decades ago,
but now appears to be a potential danger for homeowners in its proximity. I would appreciate you letting me know
the next steps or processes in order to get the dock permanently removed.
Sincerely
Tim Brady
(612)232-4880
AGENDA ITEM
Item No.: 4 Date: September 5, 2017
Item Description: Discuss 2040 Comprehensive Plan update
Presenter: Jeremy Barnhart, Community Agenda Planning Department
Development Director Section: Report
1. Purpose. The purpose of this action item is initiate the discussion/ review of the Parks and trails
section of the 2040 Comprehensive Plan.
2. Background. The City must update is Comprehensive Plan once every 10 years. The next update is
due to the Met Council by December 31, 2018. The Comprehensive Plan must include a Parks and Trails
chapter, and at minimum, the Parks and Trails chapter, must include the following:
a) Describe, map, and label the Regional Parks System facilities that are located in your community. If no
portion of the Regional Parks System falls within your community, state that fact in your comprehensive
plan.
b) Describe, map, and label the federal and state recreational lands within your community, as shown on your
System Statement.
c) Depict existing regional parkland with a land use of"Park" (or your community's equivalent) on your
Existing Land Use map.
d) Acknowledge the Council -approved master plan boundaries of regional parks, park reserves, and special
recreation features by guiding the properties with a land use of "Park" (or your community's equivalent) on
your Future Land Use map.
e) Describe and map your existing and proposed local parks, trails, and recreation facilities.
t) Include a capital improvement program for parks and open space facilities as part of your implementation
program.
The system statement indicates that Lake Minnetonka Islands Regional Park (Big Island), Baker Park
Reserve, and Norenberg Gardens, Dakota Rail and Lake Independence trails be shown on the Park Plan.
The System statement also requires that the search areas for the Lake Independence Extension (generally
along Old Crystal Bay Road and Shadywood) and North South Trail (generally between Long Lake and
Lydiard Lake in Orono's east side by shown.
Staff Recommendation. In addition to these requirements noted above, the Park Commission should
discuss their needs and goals for inclusion into the Comprehensive Plan, to be provided to staff by February,
2018 to be incorporated into the final plan, and viewed by the public, Planning Commission, and City
Council later that spring.
ACTION REQUESTED
Item presented as information only. Action to occur at a later date.
Exhibits
A. Parks and Trails section from 2010 Comprehensive Plan
B. Parks System Statement
Prepared By: J. Barnhart Reviewed By:
Approved By:
CMP Part 4E, Parks, Open Snare and Trail Plan
TABLE OF CONTENTS
CMP PART 4E.
Parks, Open Space and Trail Plan
kfM &0r0+
a e
Introductionand Scope.................................................................................................... 4E-1
Basic Park, Open Space and Trail Concepts and Principles ............................................ 4E-3
Table 4E -la: Orono Population and Households 1970-2030
Table 4E -lb: Population and Households by Defined Urban/Rural Area
Map 4E-1: Lake Minnetonka
Roleof Advisory Bodies.................................................................................................. 4E-8
Classification of City Parks and Public Use Areas........................................................... 4E-9
Park, Open Space and Trail System Inventory.................................................................. 4E-14
City of Orono Facilities
Map 4E-2: Orono Parks, Open Spaces and Trails
Map 4E-3: Orono Comprehensive Trail Plan
Table 4E-2: Orono Parks Inventory
Regional Facilities
Table 4E-3: State and County Recreation Areas Within and Near Orono
School, Private, and Commercial Recreational Facilities
Table 4E-4: School District and Private Recreational Facilities
Park System Needs Identification...................................................................................... 4E-24
Table 4E-5: Parks, Open Space and Trail Acreage by Classification
1994 Park Survey - Executive Summary and Conclusions
2008 Citizen Survey
Park, Open Space and Trail Goals and Policies................................................................. 4E-28
Park, Open Space and Trail Goals
General Park, Open Space and Trail Policies
Urban Park, Open Space and Trail Policies
Rural Park, Open Space and Trail Policies
Big Island Park Property Goals and Policies
Park, Open Space and Trail Action Plan .......................................................................... 4E-38
Capital Improvement Plan
Funding for Acquisition of New Lands and Facilities
Appendix 4E-1: City of Orono Lake Minnetonka Access Points .................................... 4E-41
City of Orono Community Management Plan 2008-2030
CMP Part 4E. Park. ODen Soacr and Irai► Plan
CMP Part 4(E)
PARK, OPEN SPACE AND TRAIL PLAN
INTRODUCTION
The provision of parks, open space areas and trails in Orono is an essential
element in making the City "livable". The increased leisure time, higher
incomes and greater awareness of physical fitness among the population has
resulted in increased demands for adequate recreation areas and facilities. Thus,
it is important for Orono to develop and implement a total strategy for meeting
these needs in an efficient, economical manner.
This Park, Open Space and Trail Plan is a refinement and restatement of the
ongoing planning practice of the City of Orono. It respects and maintains the
historic development patterns of the City. It continues many of the basic open
space concepts established by the first organized comprehensive planning
attempts in the mid 1960's, the 1974 Orono Village Comprehensive Guide Plan,
atA-the 1980 Community Management Plan, and the 2000-2020 CMP.
This Plan is prepared and presented for the following purposes:
The Park, Open Space and Trail Plan is intended to identify the
recreation and open space needs of the City and its citizens. Park,
recreation and open space requirements are directly related to a
community's land use plans. Public recreation needs are also related to
the availability of alternative leisure time activities. Orono's urban
neighborhoods require somewhat different forms of open space and park
land than the City -s rural areas.
The Park, Open Space and Trail Plan is intended to be a
management tool for City officials, appointed commissions, City
staff, and other parties involved in developing, maintaining and
managing recreational programs and facilities in Orono. The Park,
Open Space and Trail Plan identifies for citizens and local officials the
location, type and function of the various parks, open space areas, trails
and recreational facilities available in the City, and indicates relative
priorities in the use and improvement of these facilities. The Plan can
assist in reviewing development proposals for areas impacting existing
facilities. The Plan will identify potential future open space and park
requirements and can assist in planning for acquisition of additional
properties either for immediate improvement or to protect areas
designated for parks and open space from being converted to other land
uses.
City of Orono Community Management Plan 2008-2030 Page 4E-1
The Park, Open Space and Trail Plan is the recreation open space
element of our community management plan, designed to address
and conform to all the applicable provisions of the Metropolitan
Council's 2030 Regional Parks Policy Plan. For this purpose, this
Plan is completed in sufficient detail to explain how Orono's plans and
facilities are consistent with our local needs and with the existing and
planned regional facilities located nearby. This purpose and content is
consistent with the other elements of the City's Community Management
Plan.
SCOPE
The time framework of the Park, Open Space and Trail Plan is intended to
be consistent with the regional planning period of 2008-2030 and with the
City's permanent planning policies for Orono. The goals, policies and
expected recreation and open space requirements contained in this Chapter are
set in the context of the legislative mandate to plan for regional needs through
the year 2030. In many respects, however, this Plan must extend its effects well
beyond that arbitrary planning date for three reasons:
1. Park land not acquired when available will be difficult if not impossible
to acquire later.
2. Park land once acquired becomes the permanent responsibility of the
City, or another government agency, for continuing maintenance
expense, and for permanent loss of tax income.
3. Orono's urban area is essentially fully developed and Orono's rural area
land use plans are intended to be permanent.
Consequently, Orono's Park, Open Space and Trail Plans are written and
intended to be applicable and relevant for the long term, especially insofar as
public land acquisition is concerned.
City of Orono Community Management Plan 2008-2030 Page 4E-2
CMP Part 4E. Park Ooen Snare and Trail Plan
BASIC PARK, OPEN SPA CE AND TRAIL
CONCEPTS AND PRINCIPLES
The Park, Open Space and Trail Plan is an integral part of Orono's
Community Management Plan. Although the statistics and detailed policies
apply specifically to this one element of community planning, the overall goals
and objectives have been derived from joint and concurrent consideration of all
community planning elements. Therefore, the policy decisions relating to
Orono's future recreational facility requirements complement and balance
regional plans with local concerns for historic development patterns,
environmental protection, fiscal responsibility and general land use.
Park and open space needs are for both active and passive purposes. Active
recreation areas are oriented toward sports and other active recreation activities.
Passive recreation areas are oriented towards leisure activities such as
environmental and nature areas, cultural and historic sites, wildlife habitat areas
and open vistas. Ideally, a variety of active and passive recreation facilities will
be provided throughout the city to ensure that all needs of the entire community
are met.
Typical outdoor recreation activities include the following:
PASSIVE - walking, sitting, scenic viewing, observing wildlife,
fishing, photography, art (such as painting), card playing, picnicking,
historic preservation or documentation, crafts.
ACTIVE - jogging, cycling, rollerblading, skateboarding, horseback
riding, tennis, baseball, softball, soccer, football, hockey, skating, skiing,
boating, camping, swimming, playing on special equipment such as
slides, swings, sandboxes, etc.
Regional parks and recreation facilities are intended to serve a wide
geographic area and a large number of users. Regional parks are intended to
provide facilities for outdoor activities which are not normally available in
neighborhood parks or local municipalities. This might include such unique
features as a zoo, or simply more space for picnicking, boating, hiking or
experiencing an uncompromised sense of nature. Use of these facilities is
typically infrequent for any one person or family because of the special effort
necessary to reach the park or the infrequent desire to participate in the special
activity.
City of Orono Community Management Plan 2008-2030 Page 4E-3
CMP Part 4E. Park. Open Space and Trail Plan
Orono residents have been blessed with at least three regional recreational assets
close enough to be used on a regular basis. Morris T. Baker Regional Park
Reserve offers general recreation and a major natural area; the DNR's Luce Line
Trail offers hiking and horseback riding to many Orono residents on a daily
basis; and Lake Minnetonka provides a multitude of active and passive
recreational opportunities.
Neighborhood and City parks and recreation facilities are intended to serve
a relatively small neighborhood on a frequent use basis. These facilities
should provide sufficient open space and/or special equipment to provide
recreation and athletic activities not possible on typical residential properties.
City parks and recreation areas should be designed and located to serve
individuals on a familiar, almost daily basis. The service area should be
relatively small as should the number of users at any one time. Typical features
might include playground equipment, ball fields, tennis courts and gardens or
pathways.
Private open space and recreation facilities should be available to
complement public facilities. Beyond the provision of public recreation
facilities at the regional and local level, the private sector provides a large share
of the outdoor recreational opportunities, especially in Orono. Examples include
several golf courses, riding stables, and commercial marinas offering access to
Lake Minnetonka for persons not owning lakeshore. These private facilities
lessen demand for investment in public facilities, produce tax revenue, stimulate
secondary services, provide services not available publicly, and provide direct
employment opportunities. In addition, the individual ownership of open space
on residential lots provides the most accessible, most frequently used recreation
opportunity for younger children in the rural area.
Orono is partly in the Metropolitan Council's defined Urban Planning
Area (MUSA) and partly in the Rural Planning area. The Metropolitan
Council as part of its 2030 Regional Development Framework has established
Urban Planning Areas and Rural Planning Areas. The portions of Orono in the
Met Council's Urban Planning Area include those areas of the City that are
within the 2008 MUSA and are defined by Met Council as "Developing Area';
the portions of the City outside the MUSA have been deemed as Rural Planning
Area and have been categorized as "Diversified Rural". The Developing Area
category may be somewhat of a misnomer for Orono, in that most areas of
Orono within the current MUSA are fully developed at the planned long-term
densities, with just a few undeveloped properties remaining. The Diversified
Rural category is intended to include a variety of farm and non-farm land uses,
with a mix of large -lot residential and clustered housing and preservation of
open space. The non -Lakeshore 2 -acre and 5 -acre zones in Orono fit this
category. However, the City does not plan to convert these areas to urban -
density development in the future; Orono does not have any areas that could be
considered as "urban reserve".
City of Orono Community Management Plan 2008-2030 Page 4E-4
CMP Part 4E. Park. Open Space and Trail Plan
Orono's Land Use Plan calls for development in both the urban and the
rural portions of the City. The urban area is expected to have new residential
infill development on existing vacant lots and undeveloped parcels at densities
consistent with the surrounding neighborhoods. Overall urban population in
Orono is expected to remain very close to the existing numbers because of the
limited land available for development and because developed density is limited
by the ecological considerations of proximity to Lake Minnetonka. The majority
of the rural area has been zoned to require a minimum of 2 acres of dry
buildable land per residential lot, with an area in the northwest corner of the
City requiring at least 5 dry buildable acres. When wetlands, roads, steep slopes
and public open space are factored in, nearly 80% of the City's land will be
developed at densities averaging from approximately 1 unit per 3 gross acres up
to 1 unit per 7 gross acres, sufficient to meet the City's environmental protection
goals. Total population forecasts are indicated in the following tables:
Table 4E-1 a: Orono Population and Households 1970 - 2030
(Sewered and Unsewered Forecasts
Population
Year
1970
1980
1990
2000
2010
2020
2030
Sewered
Urban Area 1/2 & 1 ac. Zones
4,160
3,995
--
5,800
7,000
7,300
Unsewered
Rural Area 2 & 5 ac.
2-6-2-7
2,850
3 150
2,500
2,500
2,500
Total City
6,787
6,845
L 7,285
7,538
8,300
9,500
9,800
Households
Year
1970
1980
1990
2000
2010
2020
2030
Sewered
2030
Urban Area (1/2 & 1 ac.)
1,316
1,337
2,256
2,950
3,020
Unsewered
2,500
Rural Area (2 & 5 ac.)
830
954
944
1,000
1,080
Total City
2,146
2,291
2,613
2,766
3,200
3,950
4,100
Persons/HH
3.16
2.99
2.79
2.73
2.59
2.41
2.39
Source: Metropolitan Council System Statement
Table 4E -lb: Urban/Rural Area Population and Households 1970-2030
(Based on Orono's Defined Urban and Rural Areas)
Po ulation
Year
1970
1980
1990
2000
2010
mm
mm
Urban Area 1/2 & 1 ac. Zones
4,160
3,995
4,135
14,063
4,750
5,900
5,960
Rural Area 2 & 5 ac.
2-6-2-7
2,850
3 150
3,475
3,550
3,600
3 840
Total Cit
6 787
6 845
7 285
7 538
8,300
9.500
9 800
Occu ied Household
Forecasts*
Year
1970
1980
1990
2000
2010
2020
2030
Urban Area (1/2 & 1 ac.)
1,316
1,337
1,483
1,491
1,825
2,450
2,500
Rural Area (2 & 5 ac.)
830
954
1,130
1,275
1,375
1,500
1,600
Total Cit
2 146
2 291
2 613
2 766
3 200
3 950
4 100
Persons/HH
3.16
2.99
2.79
2.73
2.59
2.41
2.39
Sources: ig iu-tuuu U.S. census oata; 20 IU -2u30 Met Council forecasts; City records and forecasts.
City of Orono Community Management Plan 2008-2030 Page 4E-5
CMP Part 4E. Park Open Space and Trail Plan
Orono's urban and rural neighborhoods require different amounts of
public open space and recreational facilities. The urban areas of Orono have
sufficient land use and population density to allow placement of parks and
playgrounds within walking distance of a reasonable number of users. The rural
areas of Orono have the population dispersed enough that typical urban parks or
playgrounds would not be accessible to very many citizens on a regular basis. In
addition, the cost of acquiring and maintaining local playgrounds must be
justified by the number of benefited property owners within use -distance of the
facility.
Many Orono residences have direct access to open space recreation. As
compared to other urbanized areas which include high-density multiple family
housing, the majority of Orono's urban neighborhoods have developed at low
densities and therefore have reasonable and usable open space around every
residence. This has occurred in part because of environmental limitations on
excessive hardcover. In addition, nearly one-third of Orono's urban residences
are built on lakeshore property with immediate accessibility for boating,
swimming and fishing throughout all of Lake Minnetonka.
Orono's rural residences have significant amounts of open space on each
property and are frequently blessed with woods or wetlands serving as wildlife
habitats and passive open space. Many rural homes have quick access to either,
Lake Minnetonka, Long Lake, the Luce Line Trail or the trail system leading to
Wolsfeld Woods SNA, Wood Rill SNA, or Moms T. Baker Regional Park
Reserve.
A principal goal of Orono's planning program is the protection of natural
resources and environmental amenities, particularly the water quality of
Lake Minnetonka. The Environmental Protection Plan emphasizes Orono's
unique environmental position in relation to the long-term health of Lake
Minnetonka. This is vital to Orono's recreation plans because Lake Minnetonka
is the single most used, most significant recreational facility available to Orono
residents, and to many other citizens of the metropolitan area. If Lake
Minnetonka's water quality diminishes, recreational use of the Lake for fishing,
boating and swimming will be lost.
Lake Minnetonka is an unparalleled regional recreational facility. Lake
Minnetonka, as shown on Map 4E-1, is actually a series of lakes or "bays"
interconnected by narrows or channels. Some bays are up to 90 feet deep while
other areas are extremely shallow. The bays vary in size, shape, degree of
shoreline development, proximity to major roadways, wildlife habitat and other
characteristics, providing a rich variety of both active and passive recreational
opportunities.
City of Orono Community Management Plan 2008-2030 Page 4E-6
Ij
Independence
Lake Minnetonka
City of Orono
Minnesota
7000 O 7000 Feet
i i i i i i i i i i 0 0 i 0 i
C..J 1995 Watershed Boundary
C==i City of Orono
C=J Open Water
z
Minnetonka
'o '
MAP 4E-1
Lake Minnetonka is the tenth largest lake in Minnesota. Lake Minnetonka
has a surface area of approximately 22 square miles and a capacity of 400,000
acre feet of water at the normal lake elevation of 929.4 ft. MSL. One third of the
lake surface is in Orono as are 40 miles of its over 100 miles of shoreline.
Lake Minnetonka has substantial regional public value as a recreational
asset, as an environmental resource and as a setting for private residential
development. Lake Minnetonka's closeness to Minneapolis combined with its
size have long given it a unique status among the lakes in Minnesota. In the
1880's, Minnetonka became a nationally known resort area and a favorite locale
for summer homes. Beginning shortly after World War II, many summer cabins
were converted to full year residences, and the lakeshore is now undergoing
significant redevelopment with the construction of substantial suburban homes.
From the viewpoint of the fisherman, the lower lake resembles the northern
waters of the state, whereas the upper lake and its bays resemble southern
Minnesota waters. The large size of the lower lake is a major attraction for
sailboaters while the variety of bays, channels and water routes offer attraction
to the casual boater.
The Lake Minnetonka Conservation District (LMCD) was established by
the State legislature to manage use of the Lake. Due to the unique nature of
Lake Minnetonka, it is one of the few Minnesota lakes under the management
jurisdiction of a legislated conservation district. LMCD=s responsibilities
include managing Lake Minnetonka as a recreational asset serving a variety of
users, with regulatory authority over docks, mannas, and other lake access
facilities; the types of boats permitted to use the lake; lake activities including
watercraft operation and special events; and environmental controls such as lake
de-icing, weed removal and pollution prevention, monitoring and remediation.
City of Orono Community Management Plan 2008-2030 Page 4E-7
ROLE OFADVISOR Y BODIES
In the past the Orono Park Commission has served as an advisory body
appointed by the City Council to make recommendations about park, open space
and trail issues. The Park Commissiorns mandate as set forth in
Municipal Code Section 2.52 is to Astudy and consider the continuing needs of
the City for parks and recreation areas and facilities of all kinds, including, but
not limited to, problems involving public use of Lake Minnetonka and other
lakes in the City, and portions of its shorelines@. At the present time the Park
Commission is not active but could be reactivated by the City Council if future
needs dictate.
The Park Commission=s past role in park planning has been to continuously
evaluate park, open space and trail facilities and community needs. This
ongoing evaluation process allowed for identification and prioritization of
improvements-., taking into account such factors as population growth,
demographic changes, levels of facility use, health and safety factors, condition
of facilities, special populations, adjacent land use compatibility, life cycle
recreation, and satisfaction of community needs.
Any ongoing park system review and evaluation process must remain sensitive
to local needs, changing circumstances, and limitations on resources, while
encouraging a sense of community by improvement and maintenance of
neighborhood parks and responsiveness to demonstrated community needs. This
continuing review and evaluation process may in the future be addressed by
specialized alternative advisory bodies on an individual project basis rather than
by a Park Commission. The City Council will monitor the need for advisory
bodies in relation to the parks, open space and trail systems to satisfactorily
address the following general areas:
a. Park usage and needs, including a periodic (10 year cycle) community-
wide survey to determine if community needs are being met.
b. Existing park and facilities conditions and maintenance, including
equipment upgrade and replacement. Establishment of a 15 -year cycle
for the review, upgrade and improvement of neighborhood parks.
C. Park facility design compliance with Americans with Disabilities Act
(ADA) standards, striving for accessibility for persons with disabilities.
d. Landscaping of parks and open spaces.
e. Identification and procurement of additional parkland for either passive
or active recreation needs.
f. Parks budget and funding options.
g. Consistency with this Plan.
City of Orono Community Management Plan 2008-2030 Page 4E-8
CMP Part 4E. Park, Onen Snace and Tran Pian
CLASSIFICATION OF CITY PARKS & PUBLIC USE AREA
The City of Orono is serviced by a variety of park, recreation, open space and
trail facilities provided by the City, regional and state government, the Orono
School District, and private enterprise. In addition, the community benefits
from facilities in nearby communities which are accessible to and used by
Orono residents.
This section is a classification of the existing park, open space facilities and
other resources available within Orono provided by the City for Orono
residents.
A. MINI -PARKS
Size: Approximately 0-2 acres
Service Area: Serves primarily the neighborhood community that surrounds
the park and is intended for informal recreation, play and
relaxation. Limited usage by groups and organizations.
Typical Facilities: -Tot lots, play lots for children
-Benches and picnic tables
-Creative play structures and apparatus
-Limited parking
-Lighting not to be intrusive, mainly for security
-Half-court basketball
Use Characteristics: Orono has several mini -parks located throughout the City that
generally serve as passive recreation sites for all ages. Mini -
parks or play lots may also be small parks intended for
informal recreation, play and relaxation.
B NEIGHBORHOOD PARKS
Size: 2-15 acres
Service Area: Primarily for informal neighborhood use (approximately a one
mile radius). Limited organizational use, and not for exclusive
use by any one organization.
Typical Facilities:-Playfields
-Multiple use, hard surface play courts
-Creative play structures and apparatus
-Half-court basketball
-Tennis courts
City of Orono Community Management Plan 2008-2030 Page 4E-9
CMP Part 4F Park Onen Snace and Trail Plan
-Open field for informal soccer or football
-Picnic area with tables and benches
-Ice-skating rinks
-Trail connections to community -wide hiking/biking trail
system
-Vehicle parking with 10-20 spaces (sized to meet park
needs)
-Lighting that is not intrusive, primarily for security
Use Characteristics: Orono:s neighborhood parks are intended for more active use
than mini -parks with areas often designated for field games
and special activities that can serve more than the surrounding
neighbors. This classification of park offers more opportunities
for a variety of of recreational use for all age groups. The type
of facilities found in Orono:s neighborhood parks varies by
activity requirements and site physical constraints.
Neighborhood parks offer opportunity for a variety of
recreational activities, primarily informal, but also including
limited organized activities. Organizational activities are
typically not more than two days or nights per week.
L. COMMUNITY PLAYFI . DS
Size: 10 or more acres (1.5-2 acres per 1000 residents)
Service Area: Centrally located to serve a wide area of the City
Typical facilities: Typically a combination of game grass and natural areas
providing active outdoor recreation, and including:
-Play fields
- Spectator facilities
- Lighted Fields
-Shuffleboard
-Tennis
-Volleyball
-Picnic areas & shelter
-Ice skating
-Large parking area
-Play area for children
-Sanitary facilities with running water
Use Characteristics: Community play fields or parks primarily serve organized
sports, teams and leagues. The facilities at the Orono Schools
campus also provide Orono residents with community play
fields.
City of Orono Community Management Plan 2008-2030 Page 4E-10
VISA' , - I .
D. NATURE/CONSF,RVATION AREAS
Size: Typically 5 acres - 100 acres or larger
Service Area: Serves the entire community, providing for passive use by
residents of all ages.
Typical Facilities: -Nature observation areas
-Environmental Education facilities (interpretive signs, etc.)
-Parking for 1-5 vehicles
-Picnic tables and benches
-Walking paths
Use Characteristics: Conservation areas consist of prairies, lakes, wetlands,
woodland areas, natural features, and wildlife habitat.
Conservation areas may have passive recreation facilities
developed within their boundaries such as hiking and biking
trails, picnic areas and wildlife observation.
Where appropriate, trails will be developed within these
conservation areas for passive use such as nature observation.
These nature trails will also be considered for limited cross-
country ski trails in winter. Nature observation blinds also
may be developed. The development of trails will not
consume more than 20% of property.
D LAKE ACCESSES
E
Size: Variable; typically 0-2 acres
Service Area: Orono -s lake access areas are primarily intended to serve the
local neighborhoods around them.
Typical Facilities: Beaches: Provide recreational swimming opportunities
primarily for the surrounding neighborhood.
- Limited organizational use and not exclusive to any one
organization
- Picnic tables or benches
- Canoe racks
- Open for use only during daylight hours
- Limited parking
- Unsupervised swimming; swimmers swim at own risk
Boating Access: Primarily for Orono residents (regional
boating access provided by MnDNR and Hennepin County).
- Limited parking
City of Orono Community Management Plan 2008-2030 Page 4E-11
C •r
Fishing Docks: Available primarily for local community.
- Benches
- Open for use only during daylight hours
- Dock or other water access
Limited parking
Use Characteristics: These areas provide not only boating and fishing access, but in
some cases also serve as access points for ice fishing and
winter vehicular lake access. Hours and dates of use may be
limited.
Due to Orono:s location on Lake Minnetonka and Long Lake,
there are a large number of public and private lake access
facilities of various types and purposes. Within Orono there
are 5 marinas and two major public boat landings on Lake
Minnetonka.
L TRAILS - LINEAR PARK
Service Area: Orono:s trail system, with connections to regional trails, serves
the entire Orono community as well as residents of
surrounding communities.
Typical Facilities: - Trails for recreational use
- Bicycle and pedestrian oriented
- Connections to other recreational open spaces and parks, both
City and regional, as well as to transportation corridors.
Use Characteristics: The City of Orono has a number of linear parks. Public nature
trails where appropriate, and the major corridors of a linear
park system will seek to connect parks, schools, shopping
areas and residential neighborhoods.
The Luce Line Trail (MnDNR) and a number of local trails
which typically parallel existing roadway corridors, currently
provide connections between local and regional park facilities.
These trails offer opportunities for observing unique natural
open spaces. The newest element of the regional trail system,
the Dakota Rail Trail, has a bituminous surface and a variety
of amenities that will serve both pedestrians and bikers. Its
route traverses a variety of landscapes, including urban
neighborhoods as well as rural wetland areas. (See Map 4E-3)
City of Orono Community Management Plan 2008-2030 Page 4E-12
CMP Part 4F,. Park. Open Space and Trail Plan
G. ORONO SPECIAL USE AREAS
Orono has a number of recreational or open space areas which do not fall strictly into
one of the categories listed above. Each of these has specific uses and conditions, and
each will be defined and described in a unique manner appropriate for that site.
Special use sites are any areas providing specialized or single -purpose recreation
activities such as golf courses, play fields, historic sites, marinas, conservatories,
arboretums, ice arenas or ski hills. These site serve the entire community and in some
cases neighboring communities. However, consistent with the facility, users are
normally specialized and represent small groups. Some special use sites (e.g. ice rinks)
are found within parks. Historical sites will be coordinated with the Minnesota
Historical Society and or other agencies and groups as appropriate, to aid in the
identification, interpretation and preservation of these sites.
Examples of special use areas include the Orono Golf Course, the Lee Carlson Baseball
Fields, and the historical Native American site on the Seven Nations Park property.
LL ORONO UNDESIGNATED OPEN SPACES
In addition to the parks, playfields, trails, conservation areas, lake access points
and special use areas noted above, the City has ownership or control of a
number of undesignated open space properties. These are properties that the
City has acquired over the years through a variety of means but which are not
necessarily intended to become an element of the park system. These parcels
include wetlands, steeply sloped or otherwise inaccessible platted lakeshore
corridors, parcels used for drainageways or stormwater management, etc.
I1 REGIONAL PARKS OPEN SPACE & RECREATION FACILITIES
A number of parks, open spaces and recreational facilities not owned or administered
by the City of Orono are located within the City boundaries. These sites and facilities
are of a regional nature, drawing visitors from both within and outside of the Orono.
Examples include: Baker Park Reserve Noerenberg Memorial Gardens, and the Dakota
Rail and Lake Independence Regional Trails (Three Rivers Park District); The Luce
Line Trail, Wolsfeld and Wood Rill SNA=s, and the Maxwell Bay Access (MnDNR); 4
privately owned golf courses and country clubs, one of which is open to the general
public; and 5 commercial marinas providing a total of more than 400 rental boat slips
on Lake Minnetonka. A brief description of each regional facility is included in the
Park, Open Space and Trail System Inventory below.
City of Orono Community Management Plan 2008-2030 Page 4E-13
PARK. OPEN SPACE & TRAIL .SYSTEM INVENTORY
Map 4E-2 indicates the location of park, open space, trail and recreational
facilities in Orono. Parks, open space, trails and recreational facilities in Orono
are provided under jurisdiction of private organizations, the City, School
District, County and State agencies. Facilities are provided in the full range of
classifications identified as desirable for accommodating the needs of all
citizens. Each of Orono -s parks has been mapped and inventoried with a record
of existing facilities to assist in analyzing use, maintenance and future needs.
A. CITY OF ORONO FACILITIES
Table 4E-2 identifies and classifies park, recreation and open space facilities
provided by the City of Orono. A brief description of the major City facilities
follows:
Mini -Parks
Examples include Roberta Lee Antoine Park (Fagerness Point area) and the
Navarre Park (serving northern Navarre area) each of which provide tot -lot
play facilities such as slides, swings, jungle gyms, etc. in a limited space serving
the immediate neighborhood.
Neighborhood Parks
Examples include Crystal Bay Park (Crystal Bay neighborhood), Bederwood
Park (Stubbs Bay neighborhood) and Hackberry Park (Hackberry Hill
neighborhood) which are sited on larger parcels with tot -lot facilities as well as
an expanded array of opportunities such as half -court basketball and open fields
for informal football and soccer.
Community Plavfields
Bederwood Park and Hackberry Park include baseball/softball diamonds for
organized youth play, while the Lee Carlson Fields on Orono Schools' property
(leased by the City and sub -leased to the Orono Baseball Association) provide
for regulation Little League play.
Nature & Conservation Areas
Orono is blessed with a variety of natural areas that have been preserved for
passive uses. Casco Point Park is an 8 -acre parcel at the southern end of Casco
Point that was acquired conditioned on its remaining as undeveloped open space
for the neighborhood. French Creek Preserve encompasses a seven acre pond
and four acre restored prairie on property that was formerly the Orono Sewage
Treatment Plant operated in the 1960s and 70s. The treatment pond has reverted
back to a natural wetland area, home to many land and water species, with a
perimeter trail allowing for easy walking access. The restored prairie was planted
City of Orono Community Management Plan 2008-2030 Page 4E-14
in the fall of 1993. Two blinds have been constructed for convenient viewing.
The Highwood Nature Area is an 11 -acre heavily wooded site crisscrossed with
walking trails. Saga Hill Park is also a wooded site, acquired through a variety
of tax forfeiture, direct purchases and DNR grant monies that have expanded it
to some 28 acres. Portions of this park eventually may be devoted to more
active uses, while the portions acquired with the assistance of the DNR will
remain as an undeveloped preserve. Lowry Woods, located off Bayside Road in
northwest Orono, is a 14 -acre Big Woods remnant of Maple -Basswood and Oak
forest donated to the City by the Nature Conservancy.
The two most recent additions to Orono's park system are both intended to be
preserved as passive open space nature and conservation areas:
"Lurton Park Property" is the former C. W. Gordon farmstead located on the
southwestern shore of Lake Classen and originally established in the nineteenth
century. The 39 -acre property was donated to the City by William and Susan
Lurton in 2000 for use as a passive, natural environmental park. Restrictive
covenants were established that limit improvements to a picnic area, hiking
trails and a parking lot. Hunting and ballfields are specifically prohibited on the
property.
Acquisition of a portion of the property by MnDOT for right-of-way was
anticipated at the time of donation; the covenants required that the proceeds of
MnDOT's 8 -acre acquisition in 2004 be dedicated toward maintenance of the
property. The landmark `Butterfield Barn" constructed in 1910 by Frank
Butterfield, remained on the site within the MnDOT right-of-way as of 2005; it
was subsequently determined that the interior and exterior changes to the barn
over the decades had compromised its historical integrity, eliminating its
eligibility for the National Register of Historic Places. The City eventually
determined it was not feasible to relocate the barn, and it was demolished by
MnDOT.
In 2005 Mr. Lurton graciously agreed to amend the covenants to allow a sizable
portion of the MnDOT proceeds to be used toward the City's acquisition of the
Big Island Veterans Camp. However, a substantial amount was retained for
maintenance and improvement of the Lurton property.
Upon completion of MnDOT's Highway 12 re-routing, the City will be in a
position to begin making the necessary improvements to formally open the 31 -
acre park for public use. The park will be named subject to prior approval of
the donor.
Big Island Nature Park is the newest addition to the City of Orono park
system, located on 56 acres at the east end of Lake Minnetonka's Big Island.
The Park is intended to serve a dual role in preservation of a unique natural
setting while offering the public a variety of passive recreational opportunities.
City of Orono Community Management Plan 2008-2030 Page 4E-15
CMP Part 4E. Park. Open Space and Trail Plan
The Big Island Nature Park property, like much of Lake Minnetonka's
shoreland, has undergone a series of transformations over the past century.
However, in contrast to the ever -intensifying nature of the Lake's residential
development, the Big Island Park property has experienced a gradual reversion
back to a substantially undeveloped state with a diversity of significant natural
resource features.
The land on which the Park lies has a rich history of recreational use that
today's casual passerby might never have imagined. It was home to a thriving
amusement park in the early 1900s operated by the Twin City Rapid Transit
Company, drawing thousands of visitors who were transported to the island via
steam -powered ferryboats. This regional attraction lasted only 6 seasons before
it closed and was eventually dismantled. Remnants of the grandeur of the Big
Island Amusement Park can still be found on the site, including the grand entry
portal stairway and old foundation remnants hidden among the Island's wooded
glens.
In 1923 the property became the Big Island Veterans Camp, offering camping
and other recreational opportunities to Minnesota's war veterans. A large
dining hall was constructed on the high central knoll of the site, and a variety of
cabins and campsites were developed. Use of the camp by veterans and their
families continued until 2003, when the Vets Camp Board of Governors voted
to dispose of the property and use the proceeds for other veterans needs
throughout Minnesota.
The City of Orono stepped up and in partnership with the Minnehaha Creek
Watershed District obtained a grant from the State of Minnesota to purchase the
property for park purposes. A majority of the site was placed in a Conservation
Easement to preserve its open space and natural character. The remainder of the
site is allowed to be developed in a limited manner for generally passive
recreational and educational uses. Information about the City's vision, mission
and goals & policies regarding this unique property are found later in this
Section under Park, Open Space and Trails Goals and Policies.
Lake Accesses
Orono maintains four swimming beaches of which three (Casco Point Beach on
Spring Park Bay; Sandy Beach on North Arm Bay; and Lydiard Beach on
Cannan Bay) are on Lake Minnetonka. Each of the three are situated at the end
of narrow City road right-of-way corridors (60'-66' in total width) and primarily
serve the surrounding neighborhoods. Summit Beach is situated at the
southeast corner of Long Lake and is a 5 -acre parcel with over 500' of
shoreline. Donated to the City by Bruce Dayton, the park includes a parking
area, picnic tables, swimming dock and canoe racks.
City of Orono Community Management Plan 2008-2030 Page 4E-16
CMP Part 4E. Park, Ooen Space and Trail Plan
In addition, the City maintains a number of access points for pedestrian and
vehicular access to the lake, both for summer and winter use, and in a number of
areas fishing docks are provided. Most of these access points are located within
historically platted dedicated right-of-way corridors. In many cases parking is
not available, and boat launching is limited. Table 4E-5 is a comprehensive
listing of Orono's Lake Minnetonka access locations and their designated uses.
The City has a responsibility to retain these access points permanently for the
public's use. Lake Access Preservation and Management is discussed
extensively in the Transportation chapter, CMP Part 4A.
Trails ("Linear Parks")
Construction of Orono's trail system is an ongoing process that will require
many years to reach completion. In addition to the DNR's Luce Line Trail (6.3
mi. in Orono) and the Dakota Rail Trail under construction by Three Rivers
Park District (3.6 mi.), the City currently has an additional 6.2 miles of
developed trails including segments along Old Crystal Bay Road and CR 6
(connecting the Luce Line with Baker Park); North Ferndale Road; Brown Road
North; and the quadrant including Kelley Parkway/Willow Drive North/CR6.
Orono's existing and proposed trail system is shown on Map 4E-3.
Special Use Facilities
Orono has a number of facilities dedicated to specific uses. These include:
The Orono Golf Course is a picturesque nine -hole course with varying
topography, elevated greens, mature trees, and a wooded buffer on the course
perimeter. It was founded in 1924, and has the distinction of being the first public
golf course in Minnesota with grass greens.
Seven Nations Natural Area located along Watertown Road is a 3 -acre site of
historical significance to Native Americans. The land was donated by Pat
Dickey and has deed restrictions that allows minimal change to the land and
passive activities which are respectful of the property's history.
Undesignated Onen Spaces
The City owns a number of various sized parcels throughout the City that have
in many cases been acquired via tax forfeiture and retained typically for
drainage purposes as many of them are lowlying drainage basins or wetlands.
Among these many parcels are the following larger properties that are owned by
the City but not designated for a specific park, trail or open space use:
- "Carlson property", donated to the City for undefined purposes, is a 27 -
acre parcel located north of the Crystal Creek subdivision, containing mostly
wooded wetland with high ground at the eastern and northwestern
perimeters; MnDOT has an easement for a stormwater ponding area in the
NW corner of the site.
City of Orono Community Management Plan 2008-2030 Page 4E-17
- "McCulley Road property" is a 34 -acre parcel purchased by the City ca.
1979 for construction of McCulley Road. The parcel is mostly wetland, but
also contains an informal gravel parking area that abuts the Luce Line Trail.
- "French Lake north basin wetlands" includes approximately 25 acres of
wetland located west of Willow Drive and south of Fox Street. Also
associated with French Lake is an additional 5 acres abutting the French
Creek Preserve that is not designated as park and is mostly wetland.
Table 4E-2: Orono Parks Inventor (2008)
Site Acreageo
o
e?
N
N
-j"
I O�
O
O
Q'
O
N
O
N
O
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ti
00
N
O
M
00
O
N
ti
N
to
O
ti
t7
O
OO
Q
ti
cc
Qn
Q
LQ
a
3
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0
3
a
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3
Z
3
Q
a
a
g
V
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a
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t
Park Facilities
.
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a
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U
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U
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Park Classification
M
N
C
L
S
C
M
N
C
C
N
C
M
C
C
L
M
S
C
N
C
L
S
L
Use: Active or Passive
A
A
P
A
A
P
A
A
P
P
A
P
A
P
P
JA
AAP
JA
P
A
P
A
Natural Areas
X
X
Ix
X
X
X
I
I
XXX
X
X
Toilets
X
XX
X
Parking
X
X
X
X
X
X
XXX
X
Softball Field(s)
X
X
Soccer Field(s)
X
X
Football Field(s)
Basketball Court(s)
I
I
I
I
I
I
1XI
Tennis Court(s)
Ice Rink
X
X
X
Swimming Beach
Ix
X
I I
X
I
Ix
X
Dock
Ix
X
I I
X
X
Lake Access- Canoe
X
X
Trails or Trail Access
X
X
X
X
Picnic Tables
X
X
X
Ix
X
X
Benches
X
X
X
X
X
Slide(s)
X
X
X
X
X
Swing Set(s)
X
X
X
X
X
Jungle Bars
X
X
X
X
X
Golf
g
Camping
X -Country Skiing
X
X
1
X
1I
Bike Trails
Park Classification: L=Lake Access M=MiniPark C=Nature/Conservation N=Neighborhood
R=Regional Park T=Trail S=Special Use Area
City of Orono Community Management Plan 2008-2030 Page 4E-18
B. REGIONAL FACILITIES
Table 4E-3 identifies those additional regional recreational facilities in Orono
under jurisdictions of other agencies. Following is a brief description of each.
Three Rivers Park District:
Morris T. Baker Regional Park Reserve encompasses 2,700 acres in southwest
Medina and northwestern Orono. Located on Lake Independence, Baker Park
offers a wide range of outdoor activities in natural surroundings including golf
at Baker National Golf Course, creative play areas, picnic and swimming areas,
camping, bicycling on paved trails, and winter activities such as cross-country
skiing and sledding. The Lake Independence Regional Trail connects Baker
Park to the Luce Line Trail.
Dr. Arthur Allen Wildlife Refuge is part of Big Island Regional Park, a 62 -acre
parcel of woods and wetlands located on Big Island in Lake Minnetonka. There
are no facilities.
Noerenberg Memorial Gardens, situated on 73 acres on the north shore of Lake
Minnetonka's Crystal Bay, was once home to Grain Belt Brewery founder
Frederick Noerenberg and his family. The Gardens were bequeathed to Three
Rivers Park District in 1972 with the directive that the estate be maintained as a
an arboretum for the public's enjoyment. Additional restrictions established
within the bequest prohibit the use of the property for picnic purposes, for
camping, for boat or watercraft launching, or any uses incompatible with a
general display garden. The portion of the property north of County Road 51 is
maintained in its natural state as a habitat for wildlife. The Noerenberg
Memorial Gardens are widely regarded as one of the finest formal gardens in
Minnesota.
Dakota Rail Regional Trail is a bituminous paved bicycle and pedestrian trail
that follows a former railway corridor extending from Wayzata to Hutchinson,
making its way through central Orono paralleling County Road 15. The corridor
is owned by the Hennepin County Regional Rail Authority and is being
developed and maintained by Three Rivers Park District.
Hennepin County
North Arm Landing is a public boat launch site on North Arm Bay of Lake
Minnetonka, providing approximately 55 car -trailer parking stalls and 10 car -
only stalls.
City of Orono Community Management Plan 2008-2030 Page 4E-19
CMP Part 4E. Park. Open Space and Trail Plan
Table 4E-3: State, Regional and County Recreation Areas Within and Near Orono (2008)
Recreation Areas
Within
Orono
Recreation Areas
Near
Orono
Park Facilities
Three Rivers Park
Henn
DNR
Three Rivers
DNR
District
Co.
Park District
L
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O
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i. �
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L
L
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A
za
O
3
O
3
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Cd
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Park Classification
R
C
S
T
L
C
T
C
L
R
R
R
S
S
Use Status: Active or Passive
A/P
P
P
A
A
P
P
A
A
A/P
A/P
A
A
A
Natural Areas
X
X
X
XX
X
X
X
X
X
Toilets
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Parkin
X
X
?
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Beach
X
I
X
X
X
Dock
X
X
X
X
X
X
Lake Access
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
jx
Ix
Walking Trails
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Picnic Tables
X
X
X
X
Benches
X
X
?
X
X
X
X
X
X
Playground
X
I
I
X
X
X
Fishing Area
X
?
X
X
X
X
X
Golf
X
Camping
X
X
X -Country Skiing
X
X
X
X
X
X
Bike Trails
X
X
X
X
Key: DNR=Minnesota Department of Natural Resources; SNA=Scientific and Natural Area
Park Classification: L=Lake Access; R=Regional Park; S=Special Use; C=Nature/Conservation; T=Trail
City of Orono Community Management Plan 2008-2030 Page 4E-20
nesota Denartxuent of Natural Resour
Wolsfeld Woods Scientific and Natural Area, located on either side of the
Orono/Medina border, is a premier example of the original "Big Woods" forest
that once covered the south central part of the state. This large, mature stand of
hardwoods covers gently rolling hills with a wide variety of tree species,
including red oak, ironwood, butternut, maple, elm, and basswood. Trilliums,
hepatica, bloodroot, and dutchman's breeches grow on the forest floor.
Wood Rill Scientific and Natural Area in northeast Orono includes a 150 acre
remnant of the Big Woods. This undisturbed old-growth maple -basswood forest
varies from 120 to 400 years old. Trails meander through an upland canopy of
red oak, basswood, sugar maple, and white oak. A lake, ponds, and wet
meadows lie scattered about the site. A moist lowland forest of red maple, black
ash, hackberry, basswood, and green ash, grades into a small tamarack swamp
at one end. The majority of the site was gifted by Bruce and Ruth Dayton.
The Luce Line Trail is a 63 mile long former railroad grade which is developed
for biking, hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, snowmobiling, and
skiing. The limestone surfaced trail runs from Plymouth 30 miles west to
Winsted, with a parallel treadway for horseback riding. Snowmobiles are
allowed on the trail west of Stubbs Bay Road. Parking for access to the trail is
available along most crossing roads as well as that provided by the City at
Bederwood Park and McCulley Road.
Maxwell Bay Lake Access was developed on the site of a former marina by the
MnDNR in cooperation with the City of Orono to provide for public access to
Lake Minnetonka. The access includes a boat launch with 75 car -trailer parking
stalls and 15 car -only stalls, as well as a fishing dock.
Nature Conservancy:
Ferndale Marsh is a 16 -acre wetland preserve located just inland from the
north shore of Browns Bay between West Ferndale Road and Shoreline Drive.
City of Orono Community Management Plan 2008-2030 Page 4E-21
C. SCHOOL PRIVATE AND COMMERCIAL FACILITIES
Table 4E-4 identifies those facilities under public school district or private
ownership, each of which provides recreational opportunities for various
segments of Orono -s population. Following is a brief description of these
facilities:
Orono Schools:
The Orono Scool District campus on Old Crystal Bay Road North provides a
wide range of facilities for school and community use, including tennis courts,
football and soccer fields, baseball/softball, etc. Additionally, the school
property is home to the Orono Ice Arena (developed by the Orono Hockey
Boosters) and Lee Carlson Baseball Fields (developed by the Orono Baseball
Association).
Commercial Marinas:
Orono is home to five commercial marinas on Lake Minnetonka that provide as
many as 400 rental boat slips as well as marine services including boat sales and
service, boating supplies, fuel, and winter storage.
Golf Courses:
In addition to the City -owned 9 -hole golf course, four privately -owned golf
facilities are located in Orono. Lakeview Golf is open to the general public;
Woodhill Country Club, Wayzata Country Club and Spring Hill Golf Club each
are limited to members only. In total nearly 600 acres of land in Orono are
devoted to golf course use.
Camra Teko:
Camp Teko is a youth day and overnight camp operated by Temple Israel on 18
acres overlooking North Arm Bay of Lake Minnetonka. Facilities include a
swimming beach, boating area, cabins for overnights, a sport court, a pavilion,
indoor program spaces and outdoor open spaces.
Minnetonka Power Squadron:
The 9 -acre Minnetonka Power Squadron property on Big Island (known as
Streater Cove) provides a variety of facilities for its boating members including
docks with shore power, bathroom and shower facilities, a shelter, and tenting
areas.
Park Gun Club:
Located on a 15 -acre site along County Road 6 adjacent to Baker Park in
northwest Orono, the Park Gun Club is a private outdoor trap shooting range.
City of Orono Community Management Plan 2008-2030 Page 4E-22
CMP Part 4E Park Oren 9oace and Trail Pion
Table 4E-4: School District and Private/Commercial Recreational Facilities (2008)
Name of
Jurisdiction
Acres
Facilities/Activities Provided
Facility/Site
Orono Schools
ISD 278
20+
Various community playfields:
- tennis courts
- football/soccer
- baseball/softball
- etc.
Orono Schools
ISD 278/ Orono
4
Orono Ice Arena
Hockey Boosters
Orono Schools
ISD 278/City of
8
Lee Carlson Baseball Fields
Orono/Orono
Baseball Association
Camp Teko
(Private) Temple
18
Youth camp with cabins, swimming beach, etc.
Israel of Minneapolis
Minnetonka Power
(Private) Minnetonka
9
Dock area and picnic grounds for use by
Squadron
Power Squadron
members of the Minnetonka Power Squadron
Spring Hill Golf Club
(Private)
147
18 hole private golf course
Wayzata Country Club
(Private)
145
18 hole private golf course and country club
Woodhill Country
(Private)
113
18 hole private golf course and country club
Club
Lakeview Golf Course
(Privately owned,
135
18 hole golf course
open to public)
MarineMax
Commercial marina
1.2
Rental boat slips, etc.
Minnetonka Marine
Commercial marina
3.1
Rental boat slips, etc.
Sailors World
Commercial marina
0.7
Rental boat slips, etc.
North Shore Marina
Commercial marina
3.3
Rental boat slips, etc.
Wayzata Marine
Commercial marina
2.1
Rental boat slips, etc.
Park Gun Club
(Private)
15.7
Skeet shooting range
Total Acreage
625
City of Orono Community Management Plan 2008-2030 Page 4E-23
PARK SYSTEM NEEDS IDENTIFICATION
At the present time, there are many public and private parks and open space
facilities located in the City of Orono. These recreation and open space facilities
are primarily under City, State and Hennepin County jurisdiction. Additionally,
Orono School District facilities are used for active recreational purposes, and
private recreational facilities such as golf courses, camps, day -use recreation
areas and passive open space preserves provide a wide range of recreational
opportunities.
Table 4E-5 indicates by classification, the amount of land in Orono devoted to
recreation facilities.
Table 4E-5: Parks, Open Space and Trails Acreage by Classification (2008)
Classification
AcreageAcres
per 1000 Population**
Mini -Parks
3.2
0.4
Neighborhood Parks
22.2
2.8
Community Playfields
0*
0*
Nature/Conservation Areas
110.4
12.6
Lake Access
6.0
0.7
Trails
NA
NA
Orono Special Use Areas
50.1
6.4
Other Orono Preserved Areas
101
12.9
City Subtotal
293 Acres
37 Acres/1000 Pop.
Other Parks & Open Spaces:
- Orono Schools (Tennis,
32*
football, baseball, soccer, etc.)
- County
433
- State
340
- Nature Conservancy
- Private (Golf clubs, marinas,
16
16
etc)
641
Other Subtotal
1462 Acres
186 Acres/1000 Pop.
Grand Total
1755 Acres
224 Acres/1000 Pop.
Lake Minnetonka Acreage
within Orono City Limits
4700 Acres+
`Orono Schools provide community playtields used by Orono residents
**2007 Population Est. (Met Council): 7,841
City of Orono Community Management Plan 2008-2030 Page 4E-24
14lif'P Part 4E. Park_Qa&rSTace-.r,
1994 Park Survey
In 1994 at the request of the Orono Park Commission, the City Council
approved the development of a park master plan, the first step of which was to
survey the City -s residents to determine what they want in a park system. A
brief summary of the 1994 survey appears below. This survey provided a basis
for the Goals and Policies outlined in the 2000-2020 Park, Open Space and Trail
Plan.
Summary of 1994 Orono Residential Survey
Conducted by: Decision Resources, Ltd.
Methodology: 400 randomly selected households were contacted by telephone July 5 to 19, 1994
Residential Demographics:
22% of households contain seniors; 37% of households contain children
22% of households headed by retirees
34% of households contain a member of a private or public health club
24% of households contain adults participating on organized sports teams
61 % of households containing children participate in youth team sports
40% of households reported being on a lake
31 % of households on 2 to 1 acre lot; 21 % on 1-2 acres; 20% on less than 2 acre;
17%on2-5acres; 9% of households on five acres or more
Conclusions:
A. A majority of residents did not see the need for the development of a more extensive park
and recreation system in Orono.
B. Residents expressed support in concept and in commitment of tax dollars to preserving more
natural land areas, such as wetlands, scenic open spaces, and wildlife habitats, in the
community.
C. While majorities favored more extensive trails in Orono in concept, majorities did not favor
increasing taxes for a system linking parks and recreational facilities nor a Across -country@
system.
D. In recreational planning for the community, residents placed an accent on recreational
pursuits revolving around trail -related activities - such as hiking, walking and bicycling - and
lake -related activities - such as swimming and boating.
E. Residents supported tax increases for recreational facilities related to passive leisure time
pursuits - nature preserves, trails, playground equipment, and nature observation areas - as
opposed to active leisure -time pursuits.
F. User fees were viewed as an appropriate means of underwriting the construction and
operating costs of recreational facilities.
City of Orono Community Management Plan 2008-2030 Page 4E-25
CMP Part 4F Park Onen Space and Trail Plan
2008 Citizen Survev
In order to determine whether the needs and desires of Orono residents relative
to parks, recreation and open space had shifted, the City Council authorized a
new Citizen Survey which was conducted via telephone by Decision Resources,
Ltd. in July 2008. While the survey covered a broad range of topics about the
quality of life in Orono, a substantial portion of the survey was devoted to
questions about the level of residents' recreation activities as well as their use of
and satisfaction with existing park facilities.
Survey results indicated continuing strong support for concentrating on
preservation of open space and creation of walking trails, placing a relatively
low priority on development of more active recreation amenities. The summary
and conclusions of the park and recreation element of the 2008 survey appear
below:
A majority of residents report they undertake four passive activities on at
least a weekly basis: "gardening" at 74%; "exercise walking or jogging" at
73%; "nature walks" undertaken by 56%; and "bird watching" by 53%. At
least 15% report they undertake six active recreational pursuits at least
several times per month: "participation in a youth athletics league or
organized sport" by 25%; "tennis" indicated by 21%; "softball or baseball"
by 19%; "soccer or football" or "basketball' each undertaken by 18% of the
households; and "outdoor ice skating" by 15%.
A very solid 95% are satisfied with the amount of information they have about
parks and recreation facilities in the city. Principal information sources about
parks and recreation facilities in the community include the city newsletter, by
33%, "The Laker" at 14%, and the city website at 13%.
A comparatively high 95% feel the current mix and number of parks and
recreation facilities in and around the community meet their households'
needs. As a result, 82% think current facilities are adequate for city residents;
only 16% disagree. If the City were to undertake park and recreational
development efforts, 62% think the top priority should be one preserving
more natural land areas, such as wetlands, scenic open spaces, and wildlife
habitats. Twenty-seven percent would prioritize developing additional passive
park facilities, such as walking trails and flower gardens.
During the past twelve months, 72% of the survey respondents report visiting
a City -owned or operated park, beach, trail, or recreational facility. Thirty-
seven percent specifically report using the Luce Line Trail. About one-third
of the Luce Line Trail users urge better trail maintenance in the future.
Seventy-three percent of the households in the city report members use Lake
Minnetonka for recreational purposes. Fifty-two percent swim there; sixty-
seven percent boat there. Forty-five percent of the households contain golfers.
Among the golfing households, 69% golf on the Orono Golf Course. Eighty -
City of Orono Community Management Plan 2008-2030 Page 4E-26
six percent rate the golf course favorably, while only 12% are more critical. A
similar evaluation is posted on the condition and maintenance of the Orono
Golf Course. The principal reason golfers do not use the course is its
"hilliness". Turning to a different season, 28% of Orono households report
members go sledding or skiing on the Orono Golf Course.
Forty-eight percent think it is at least "somewhat important" to have a system
of local trails or sidewalks that connect their neighborhood to a regional
recreational trail, such as the Luce Line trail or the planned Dakota Rail
Trail; twenty-two percent see it as "very important". Only seven percent of
the sample says their neighborhood has sidewalks. Among those living in
areas without sidewalks, 74% oppose the construction of sidewalks in their
neighborhoods. Fifty-four percent also think it is either "very likely" or
"somewhat likely" members of the household will use Big Island Park
City of Orono Community Management Plan 2008-2030 Page 4E-27
WIMMEIMIMINIMIT t
PARK. OPEN SPACE AND TRAIL GOALS AND POLICIES
Orono's Park, Open Space and Trail Plan is based upon the following Goals and
Policies, which in turn are consistent with the other elements of Orono's Land
Use and Community Management Plans:
PARK. OPEN SPACE AND TRAIL GOALS
1. To provide passive open space and active recreational opportunities
diversified enough to serve all Orono residents.
2. To protect and preserve natural resource areas, wildlife habitats
and open space.
3. To continue developing the planned elements of the adopted City-
wide bike and walking trail plan that provides connections between
area parks and open space and functions as a transportation
corridor.
4. To continually assess and evaluate the current park and open space
options in Orono in relation to the needs and desires of Orono
residents.
5. To cooperate and actively work with public and private
organizations to provide additional opportunities for recreation and
open space that complement existing municipal, regional and
private facilities.
6. To encourage civic involvement and partnerships in developing and
maintaining Orono:s parks and open spaces.
7. To achieve the above goals within the financial capabilities of the
City and its citizens by developing fiscal and management policies
that support maintenance, development and acquisition of parks
and open spaces.
City of Orono Community Management Plan 2008-2030 Page 4E-28
CMP Part 4F Park Open Space and Trail Plan
GENERAL PARK. OPEN SPACE AND TRAIL POLICIES
1. Every residence should have its own private open space. Individual
open space can be tailored to individual recreational desires. Individual
open space is the most accessible place of outdoor recreation, affording
frequent use and therefore improved community health. Private open
space is the least expensive form of outdoor recreation, both to
homeowner on a use basis, to the nation on an energy conservation
basis, and to the public on a total -cost basis. This policy is consistent
with the city's environmental commitment to preserve open space and to
limit and improve the quality of surface water runoff.
2 New developments will be encouraged to coordinate private open
space with public recreational plans. This includes providing
complementary land uses and complementary recreation facilities. This
includes encouragement for providing a private trail system coordinated
with the public bike -hike trails.
3 Orono will protect and preserve natural recreational and open space
amenities including Lake Minnetonka, other lakes, marshland,
wetlands, and natural woodlands. Orono will promote the preservation
of open space along the lakeshore of Lake Minnetonka for passive
recreational uses. Additionally, Orono will encourage the provision of
additional open space buffers to enhance and protect existing parks,
open spaces and natural areas. This recreation policy works hand in hand
with Orono's Environmental Protection plans and policies. Once
preserved for environmental purposes, these areas provide excellent
wildlife habitat and passive recreational opportunities for all citizens.
Orono citizens rely on these natural amenities for a major portion of
their outdoor recreational activity. Preservation of open space will in
tum preserve Orono=s natural rural character and unique natural features,
and will provide natural protection for Lake Minnetonka, Long Lake and
other lakes.
4. Orono will coordinate with other jurisdictions, agencies and
organizations in the provision of sufficient active recreation facilities
to meet the needs of the community. Playfields will be provided to
meet the long-term needs of the community in relation to youth sports
activities. Particularly in the City --s urban area, sufficient informal
neighborhood playfields will be provided to meet the long-term needs of
neighborhoods or groups of neighborhoods, such that children can walk
or bike to a neighborhood playfield. Neighborhood playgrounds will be
provided such that most children can walk or bike to a playground.
City of Orono Community Management Plan 2008-2030 Page 4E-29
In the rural areas of Orono, locating parks within walking distance of all
residents is not economically feasible or practical because the population
is so widely dispersed.
Orono will coordinate recreational facilities and programs with
other governmental agencies and non-profit organizations.
Duplication of programs and facilities will only be a burden on the
taxpayer without providing any new benefits. Orono will actively
encourage all school districts to coordinate their programs and facilities
and to open them to the public whenever feasible. Orono will actively
support and cooperate with the Orono and Mound-Westonka School
Districts in their community service recreation programs and will assist
in coordinating the location and type of recreational facilities with those
provided by the Department of Natural Resources, Three Rivers Parks
and the local school districts. The City will encourage planning for
organized team sports on a community/sub-regional basis. Orono will
work with public or non-profit groups to fund the acquisition and
development of recreational and open space lands and facilities.
6 Orono will locate active -use park and recreational facilities so as to
benefit neighboring land uses. All park facilities, and especially
community facilities that are expected to draw citizens from outside the
immediate neighborhood, will be carefully designed and located so as to
serve the best interests of all citizens without disrupting or disturbing
established neighborhood lifestyles or traffic patterns.
7. Orono will strive toward connectivity between the various park and
open space facilities. The interrelationships between neighborhood
parks, conservation areas and the rest of the park system should be
strengthened through the proper location and use of green ways, trails,
underpasses and overpasses. Trail connections should be provided to
neighborhood parks to enable pedestrian access. Trail corridors or
Alinear parks§ should be incorporated within open space buffers at the
edge of subdivisions and adjacent to major roadways.
8. Orono will encourage the preservation of private open space and
will identify and acquire additional public open space parcels as the
opportunity arises. As can be seen on Map 4E-2 and in the table of
existing facilities, Orono already has a high percentage of land area
devoted to recreation open space. However, once land is developed, the
opportunity for its preservation as open space is lost. An identified high
priority of Orono residents is the preservation of additional open space
within the City. Conservation easements, private donations, land trusts
and other methods can allow the private sector to play a major role in
preservation of open spaces in Orono.
City of Orono Community Management Plan 2008-2030 Page 4E-30
9 Land developers must provide for recreational space to serve all
new developments. Land subdivisions or any new development that
results in increased land use density, and hence increased demand for
recreational services, will be expected to include public dedication of
lands necessary for additional parks, playgrounds and open space. If the
individual development's density increase or impact is relatively small in
lieu of lands the developer will be required to contribute funds for the
municipal purchase of such lands or improvement of existing recreation
facilities proportionate to the cumulative effect of such density increase.
This policy is applicable to both the rural and urban areas of Orono, and
is especially critical where high density development limits the
availability of recreational space within the development site.
10. The established park dedication fund will be used for purchase of
additional park land and/or for improvement of existing
undeveloped park land. Consistent with Minnesota Statutes, this fund
will not be used for any park maintenance or recreation operating
expense. This fund will not be used for typical physical improvements
normally placed in the annual budget. The intent is for the fund to
accumulate to a level sufficient for a large scale activity as may be
determined in the fixture.
11. Orono will ensure that all new parks are ADA compliant, and
continue to upgrade existing parks to make them ADA compliant.
1. The City will attempt to provide sufficient recreation facilities in
existing parks and in additional new parks as necessary to meet the
needs of all urban residents. The existing park facilities will be
improved to provide a wide range of diversified recreation opportunities.
New park locations will generally be limited to small tot -lots or mini -
parks designed for special purposes to serve small neighborhoods not
adjacent to existing facilities. If future park needs are identified as a
result of changing demographics or the changing desires of Orono
residents, new parks may be established to serve these needs.
2 The City will assist in the establishment of recreation programs in
coordination with school district community service programs. The
City does not have the capability to institute its own recreation program
but the City will cooperate and participate in the community service
programs offered through the local school districts.
City of Orono Community Management Plan 2008-2030 Page 4E-31
3. The City will seek to improve local access to and between
recreational facilities. The City will work toward improving
neighborhood access to all recreation facilities including especially
provisions for safe walking and bicycling within the immediate area
around each park. The City will work toward linking all public
recreation facilities with an expanded bike -hike trail system.
RURAL PARK, OPEN SPACE AND TRAIL POLICIES
L Providing for rural area open space will primarily be the
responsibility of each landowner. There is sufficient open space
provided on each rural lot to accommodate most passive and many
active forms of outdoor recreation. Only limited City or public
investment is necessary.
2 Rural recreation facilities must not require urban services. Major
emphasis will be on passive recreation areas that do not attract large
numbers of people because urban services such as sewer, water and
frequent police patrolling are not available in the rural service area.
3. Rural recreation areas will be coordinated between the City, Three
Rivers Parks, and the State. The Orono bike -hike trail system will
link urban and rural neighborhoods to the various local, regional and
State passive and active rural recreation facilities located within the City.
The City will work with the various jurisdictions to ensure that the links
are appropriately located and designed to provide a safe and satisfying
recreational experience for all users.
4 The City will encourage Three Rivers Parks to continue its existing
service levels at Morris T. Baker Park Reserve and at Noerenberg
Gardens. Both facilities have limited activity levels within Orono, and
Orono will encourage that this limited usage continue as appropriate to
Orono's rural land use plans. Orono will encourage retention of the
natural open space and nature areas in the Orono portion of Morns T.
Baker Park Reserve. Orono will encourage the existing conservancy and
limited use aspects of Noerenberg Gardens consistent with the
restrictions contained in the original bequest. Orono will discourage
extensive development in either location.
5. The City will encourage Three Rivers Park District to continue to
preserve the Dr. Arthur Allen Wildlife Refuge property on Big
Island (part of Big Island Regional Park) as a wildlife sanctuary
with virtually no facilities for public use or access. Given its close
proximity to Orono's Big Island Nature Park that is similarly planned for
City of Orono Community Management Plan 2008-2030 Page 4E-32
CMP Part 4F.. Park. Oocn Space and Trail Plan
preservation as a natural area, the Refuge complements the City's park
in that it constitutes nearby additional natural wildlife habitat. In keeping
with the wildlife sanctuary theme, the Park District has no plans to
provide public amenities or enhance accessibility to the site. Orono will
continue to support this policy.
6 The City will not encourage condemnation or forced conversion of
private residential properties on Big Island to public land. The
City's acquisition of the Big Island Veterans Camp was an arms -length
transaction between a willing seller and buyer, of land that had been
guided and used for decades as open space. However, the City has
adopted ordinances which allow continued individual private seasonal
recreational use of the Island while prohibiting excessive development.
The existing balance between private and public ownership of properties
on Big Island is reasonable.
7. The City will encourage the Minnesota DNR to continue its
restrictions on use or alteration of Wolsfeld Woods and Wood Rill
Scientific and Natural Areas. These are unique nature areas that should
not be developed for active use, but should remain in their natural state
for passive use by the public. This is doubly important in the case of
Wolsfeld Woods, since access and traffic control is extremely limited
from County Road 6.
8 The City will encourage the Minnesota DNR to maintain and
improve the Luce Line trail, and to manage its use consistent with
the rural residential area it traverses. The City will encourage
interconnection with other city or regional trails to provide a coordinated
linkage between a wide variety of recreational facilities. The City will
encourage the MnDNR to continue the limitations on motorized trail
usage east of Stubbs Bay Road. Because the Luce Line Trail provides a
natural, rural -type setting for trail activities, and because the Trail=s
current limestone surface is in harmony with the character of rural
Orono, the City will not support paving of the Luce Line Trail.
9 The City will continue to support the interim use of the former
Dakota Rail line through southern Orono as the recently opened
Dakota Regional Trail. While this former rail corridor may have future
uses for mass transportation as a link to Minneapolis and St. Paul, such
use is not anticipated in the near future. The City will continue to
support the interim use of this rail corridor as a pedestrian and bicycle
trail, and will support preservation of the corridor in public ownership
for future regional transportation uses.
City of Orono Community Management Plan 2008-2030 Page 4E-33
10. The City will encourage retention and continued operation of the
private golf courses. These private facilities provide major active
recreation in the City and in addition provide aesthetic open space and
open vistas to the benefit of all adjacent property owners and the public
alike. The City will discourage conversion of these facilities into non -
recreational land use because of the benefit of this recreational
opportunity and because the City has limited public services necessary
for accommodating more intense uses.
11. The City will work with the neighboring communities of Tonka Bay
and Shorewood and other regional agencies to determine the
feasibility of a regional trail along County Road 19. A regional trail
along this corridor would connect the Lake Minnetonka LRT Regional
Trail with the Dakota Regional Trail as well as providing for safer
bicycle and pedestrian transportation along this highly traveled corridor
that bisects the upper and lower sections of Lake Minnetonka. This
scenic corridor does present a variety of challenges for trail development
and use due to topography, lake proximity, and right-of-way availability,
but the City will support the inclusion of the corridor in the regional trail
plans of Three Rivers Park District, Hennepin County and the
Metropolitan Council.
IG ISLAND NATURE PARK PROPERTY GOALS & POLICI
The City's acquisition in 2005 of the Big Island Veterans Camp in cooperation
with the Minnehaha Creek Watershed District (MCWD), places in Orono's care
a unique and highly visible recreation amenity with regional drawing power.
In conjunction with its financial assistance to the City for purchase of the
property, the MCWD was granted a Conservation Easement over the site
intended to preserve its exceptional natural environmental values. Additionally,
the City's commitment to the State of Minnesota (which provided a substantial
portion of the funding for the purchase) and to the State's many veterans
organizations, was to make the site accessible to the public.
Management of this property presents a number of challenges due to its
accessibility only by boat. Site maintenance and improvement as well as
management of the level and types of uses occurring on the property are made
more difficult because of its island location. For these reasons the Big Island
Nature Park property requires a distinct package of goals and policies as
compared to Orono's other park and open space facilities.
City of Orono Community Management Plan 2008-2030 Page 4E-34
In order to achieve the level of management needed to operate Big Island Park
successfully, the City has begun the process of formulating and adopting a
directed Management Plan for the Park. The Plan's draft Vision Statement
establishes the following Vision, Mission, Goals and Objectives for Big Island
Nature Park:
Mission
The mission of OrODO's Big Island Park is to provide safe and enjoyable passive
recreational and educational opportunities for visitors while preserving the
natural, cultural and physical resources of the site.
Vision
Big Island Park on Lake Minnetonka is a serene natural refuge on an island
surrounded by an intensely used recreational lake. Accessible only by water, it is
characterized by open and wooded hills, wetland areas, and steep bluffs.
Historically, a succession of diverse recreational uses has been accommodated on
the property, and the remnants of those uses add to the character and mystique of
the site. Through mutual collaboration between the City of Orono and the
Minnehaha Creek Watershed District, Big Island Park will be preserved,
maintained and improved as a passive recreational, ecological and educational
asset to the Lake Minnetonka community and its visitors.
Overall Goal for the Park
Achieve an appropriate and responsible balance between the recreational use,
protection and interpretation of the biological, physical and cultural resources of
the park.
Specific Goals and Objectives/Policies
Goal 1. Manage the Park in a manner consistent with its identity as a
Natural Passive Recreation Area
The City will:
• Maintain the Park as a nature and wildlife preserve within the
guidelines established in the Minnehaha Creek Watershed District
Conservation Easement while encouraging and allowing only
minimal impact recreational and educational uses
• Provide only facilities and amenities that are compatible with the
level of recreational and educational activities intended for the Park
• Provide an inviting impression of the natural character of the Park by
planning and implementing shoreline and point -of -access
improvements, regular maintenance and provision of tasteful
directional or informational signage at strategic locations
• Protect the natural scenic quality of the Park as viewed from internal
and external locations
• Define and constantly reinforce the unique character of the Park with
every decision and communication related to the Park
City of Orono Community Management Plan 2008-2030 Page 4E-35
CMP Part 4E. Park, Open Space and Trail Plan
Goal 2. Implement environmentally sound and sustainable policies within
the Park
The City will:
• Manage the Park in a manner consistent with the purposes of the
Minnehaha Creek Watershed District Conservation Easement:
> Protection of a natural habitat of fish, wildlife, and plants;
> Protection of the water quality of Lake Minnetonka; and
• Preservation of the open and natural character of the Park for
scenic enjoyment by the general public including from Lake
Minnetonka and substantial parts of its shoreline
• Adhere to the restrictions on use established within the MCWD
Conservation Easement
• Protect, manage and maintain areas important as habitat for rare,
threatened, endangered or protected plant and animal species and
community types
• Identify areas with environmental sensitivity and take measures to
direct incompatible activity away from such areas
• Maintain only a limited level of facilities consistent with the Park's
limited capacity to withstand use
• Maintain, restore and/or enhance the natural environment, where
appropriate, to improve the quality of natural resources and support
biodiversity of plants and animals
• Limit the spread of invasive species and encourage the propagation
of species of plants and animals considered native to the Lake
Minnetonka area
• Protect and maintain the quality of surface waters and groundwater
associated with the Park
• Ensure that winter use provides minimal impact to the park
Goa13. Improve access to and mobility within the Park
The City will:
• Provide docks and landing areas to allow for public access by boat
• Manage pedestrian pathways to respect of the natural character of the
Park
• Identify areas of the Park that will be made accessible to the
disabled, and provide the minimum level of paved or hard surfaces
necessary for the provision of disabled accessibility
• Establish, post and publicize Park hours, rules, limitations, etc.
Goal 4. Provide the level of recreational and service facilities necessary for
safe public use of the Park while limiting the need for intensive operation and
maintenance activity
The City will:
• Develop a set of design, maintenance and operation guidelines
• Develop partnerships for maintenance and operation of the Park
• Identify specific approaches to address resource protection within the
operation and maintenance programs
• Establish an emergency helipad location
• Eliminate or avoid introducing attractive nuisances that will be used
for unintended and unwanted purposes
City of Orono Community Management Plan 2008-2030 Page 4E-36
CMP Part 4E. Park. (Open 'pace and Trail Plan
Goal 5. Allow for educational and service opportunities related to the
biological, physical and cultural resources of the Park
The City will:
• Identify, protect, preserve and interpret sites and areas significant to
the history, archaeology and culture of the Park area
• Develop interpretive tools that focus on the plants, animals, natural
communities, natural features and cultural resources within the Park
• Support and promote interpretive programs and tools for the general
public and organized groups
• Provide opportunities for service projects of mutual benefit to Big
Island Park and volunteer organizations or individuals
• Encourage volunteer opportunities and promote volunteering that
promotes long-term community stewardship of the Park
• Provide opportunities for input regarding Park management and
development from the public
• Establish a permit system for educational and service activities to
ensure that such activities are consistent with the above goals
Goal 6. Promote a passive day -use recreation and natural area identity in the
Park reinforced by the design of facilities and amenities as well as by the
establishment of rules and regulations consistent with that identity
The City will:
• Encourage and support the use of the Park for recreational activities
that require little or no infrastructure
• Promote recreation and enjoyment by individuals and small groups
as opposed to large group special events; limit and manage special
events to minimize impact on the Park and interference with Park
users; prohibit all for-profit activity within the park
• Establish appropriate permits and policies for non-profit group and
individual use of the Park within the guidelines established in the
MCWD Conservation Easement
• Ensure that the Park and its facilities remain available to all users
and are not used exclusively by any single group or entity
Goal 7. Recognize, acknowledge and embrace the special relationship that
America's military veterans have with the Park property, and encourage their
use of the Park in a manner consistent with its mission, vision and goals
City of Orono Community Management Plan 2008-2030 Page 4E-37
PARK. OPEN SPACE AND TRAIL ACTION PLAN
Capital Improvement Plan
The Orono park, open space and trail system has undergone many
improvements and expansions since the mid 1970s. Neighborhood parks
such as Antoine, Bederwood, Hackberry, Navarre, and Crystal Bay have been
upgraded to include substantial play equipment, landscaping and in some cases
ballfield amenities. Orono's system of active and passive recreational open
spaces has been expanded via a wide variety of acquisition methods including
direct purchase, tax forfeiture, parkland dedication from new development, re-
designation of existing City properties, and from private land donations. A few
key segments of bike -hike trails have been completed as part of new
development or road reconstruction projects, as well as in partnership with the
Three Rivers Park District.
Residential Surveys conducted in 1994 and 2008 have helped establish and
solidify a direction for future park acquisitions and improvements. The major
focus of the Parks, Open Space and Trail Plan will continue to be on the
protection of passive recreation amenities such as wetlands, woodlands and
other private open space, on the acquisition of selected additional open space
parcels, and on the physical improvement of the existing public park facilities
and expansion of the existing trail system.
In order to assist in determining a prioritization for capital improvement
expenditures, the City will develop a 3 to 5 year Parks Capital Improvement
Plan which will be reviewed and updated on a regular basis. This Parks CIP will
address as a minimum the following activities which constitute Orono=s
AParks, Open Space and Trail Action Plan:
1. Obtain an agreement for the acquisition of the remaining residential lot
within Hackbeny Park.
2. Identify for preservation/acquisition additional areas with unique natural
features and wildlife habitats that will make a substantial contribution
toward preserving Orono -s natural open rural character.
3. Identify future locations for neighborhood parks in advance of
development so that they can be included in subdivision plans, and the
City can obtain land through the park dedication requirement.
4. Plan for a neighborhood park in the area of Highway 12 and Old Crystal
Bay Road to serve future higher density residential development planned
for this area.
City of Orono Community Management Plan 2008-2030 Page 4E-38
9 #.
W.1! 11
5. Plan for an underpass at County Road 6 and Old Crystal Bay Road for
the Old Crystal Bay Road trail.
6. Determine the nature and extent of park and trail facilities necessary to
support and enhance the Dakota Rail Regional Trail and its future
connections to Navane as well as to the potential future trail along CR 19
connecting with the Lake Minnetonka LRT Regional Trail.
Ensure all new bridges constructed as part of the new Highway 12
project have sufficient trails/sidewalks such that all existing
transportation and recreational uses including walking and biking (and
horse riding on the Luce Line Trail) are maintained.
8. Coordinate with the City of Long Lake, and work with Mn/DOT and
other agencies regarding a trail and park along the south side of the new
Highway 12 corridor.
9. Continue to monitor whether the City has any long-term needs for
playfields to meet the needs of organized youth sports activities and if
such needs are identified, coordinate the eventual provision and cost-
sharing for these facilities with the appropriate public agencies and
private organizations.
10. Preserve and retain all existing public access lanes to Lake Minnetonka
as detailed in the Transportation element of the CMP.
11. Develop plans for and implement a north -south trail along Willow Drive
connecting the Dakota Rail Trail Corridor with the Luce Line Trail,
Hackbeny Park, and Long Lake's Holbrook Park and trail system.
12. Complete and implement the City's Big Island Nature Park Management
Plan and establish the necessary operating budgets and capital
improvement plan to ensure the long-term viability of City stewardship
of this unique resource.
13. Upon completion of the MnDOT Highway 12 Bypass project, in
consultation with the park donor, develop and implement a plan to make
Lurton Park accessible to the public while maintaining its intent as a
passive, natural environmental park with improvements limited to a
picnic area, hiking trails and a parking lot.
City of Orono Community Management Plan 2008-2030 Page 4E-39
CMP Part 4E. Park. Open Space and Trail Plan
Funding for Aeouisition of New Lands and Facilities
Orono currently provides funding for park, open space and trail needs by three
specific methods: 1) mandatory developer contributions of land or cash
payments to the Park Dedication Fund at the time property is subdivided or
developed; 2) transfers from the Citys General Fund; and 3) private
contributions of land or funds.
As Orono becomes fully developed over the next two decades, the amount of
money collected via required Park Dedications as a result of new development
will decrease substantially. Funding for the acquisition of park lands and for
improvement of existing facilities will require alternative sources of capital in
the future. The City will continue to investigate mechanisms for future funding
(such as user fees, grants, etc.) and will continue to encourage private donations
of land or funds in order to maintain the level of active and passive recreation
opportunities desired by Orono residents.
City of Orono Community Management Plan 2008-2030 Page 4E-40
CMP Part 4E. Park_ Onen Snacc and Trail Plan
CMP PART 4E APPENDIX
City of Orono Lake Minnetonka Access Points
City of Orono Community Management Plan 2008-2030 Page 4E-41
Appendix 4E-1: City of Orono Lake Minnetonka Access Points - Designated Use and Current S1
ID
Access Name
Plat
Between
Designated
UPDATED 4/2/01
#
or Street Name
Section
Address #s
Use
Notes
Brown's Bay (Lower Lake)
I
End of Orono Lane
2-S
1355/1385
Not open for public use; plat map indicates que!
--
Shoreline Drive - "Molly's
2-S
Across from
Shore Fishing
Hennepin County provides an informal parking a
Corner" (Outlot A, Dragonfly
1410 Shoreline
spot along Shoreline Drive; popular fishing spot;
Hill)
Smith Bay (Lower Lake)
2
Shoreline Drive at Spates
10-S
Adj to 1955
Winter Only
Gated in summer; seasonal Long Lake Fire Dept.
in 2008; winter vehicular access allowed.
3
North Shore Drive at Shoreline
10-S
Tracts S&U, RLS 192; these tracts are on the stec
Drive
Drive; due to slope and safety issues this access 1
Crystal Bay
--
North Shore Drive
9-S
2605/2655
No longer a public access
("Town Road")
4
North Shore Drive at Baldur
8-S
3498/3510
Winter Only
30' wide platted road right-of-way
Park Road
--
North Shore Drive east of
17-N
3685/3705
33' wide eastward extension of North Shore Driv,
Shadywood Road
5
Shadywood Road at Sunset Dr
17-N
1998/2000
15.2' wide platted alley - closely abutting homes,
6
Crystal Bay Road (West end)
17-S
Adj to 2264
66' wide platted road extending to lakeshore; Cit}
Shadywood
lakeshore parcels to the east for an additional 20C
number of inland private parcels claim deeded ac
bathing"... status currently under discussion
7
Crystal Bay Road (Relocated
17-S
3405/3415
20' relocated alley from Railroad property to shot
extension of Bayview Place in
railway corridor. The only known documentatim
plat of"Wallace's Addition...")
Nov. 10, 1908 from Wallace et al to Priebe whict
"heretofore taken for street purposes" and notes t
Lots 18 and 19 was vacated by the District Court,
8
Crystal Bay Road (Platted
17-S
3339/3345
25' wide platted roadway; contains municipal sev
extension of Hillside Place)
neighborhood and Railroad/Trail corridor to lake:
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REGIONAL PARKS SYSTEM
STATEMENT
City of Orono
The Regional Parks System includes 62 regional parks, park reserves, and special recreation features,
plus more than 340 miles of regional trails that showcase the unique landscapes of the region and
provide year-round recreation. The Regional Parks System is well -loved by our region's residents and
attracted over 48 million annual visits in 2014.
The organizational structure of the Regional Parks System is unique, built upon a strong partnership
between the Council and the ten regional park implementing agencies that own and operate Regional
Parks System units. The regional park implementing agencies are:
Anoka County Ramsey County
City of Bloomington City of Saint Paul
Carver County Scott County
Dakota County Three Rivers Park District
Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board Washington County
The 2040 Regional Parks Policy Plan was developed based on furthering the Thrive MSP 2040
outcomes of Stewardship, Prosperity, Equity, Livability, and Sustainability. Thrive MSP 2040 states that
the Council will collaborate with the Metropolitan Parks and Open Space Commission, the regional park
agencies, and state partners to:
• Expand the Regional Parks System to conserve, maintain, and connect natural resources
identified as being of high quality or having regional importance, as identified in the 2040
Regional Parks Policy Plan,
• Provide a comprehensive regional park and trail system that preserves high-quality natural
resources, increases climate resiliency, fosters healthy outcomes, connects communities, and
enhances quality of life in the region.
• Promote expanded multimodal access to regional parks, regional trails, and the transit network,
where appropriate.
• Strengthen equitable usage of regional parks and trails by all our region's residents, such as
across age, race, ethnicity, income, national origin, and ability.
Key Concepts in the 2040 Regional Parks Policy Plan
The 2040 Regional Parks Policy Plan includes the following policies, each with specific associated
strategies:
Recreation Activities and Facilities Policy: Provide a regional system of recreation
opportunities for all residents, while maintaining the integrity of the natural resource base within
the Regional Parks System.
Page - 31 1 2015 SYSTEM STATEMENT — ORONO REGIONAL PARKS
• Siting and Acquisition Policy: Identify lands with high-quality natural resources that are
desirable for Regional Parks System activities and put these lands in a protected status so they
will be available for recreational uses and conservation purposes in perpetuity.
• Planning Policy: Promote master planning and help provide integrated resource planning
across jurisdictions.
• Finance Policy: Provide adequate and equitable funding for the Regional Parks System units
and facilities in a manner that provides the greatest possible benefits to the people of the region.
• System Protection Policy: Protect public investment in acquisition and development by
assuring that every component in the system is able to fully carry out its designated role as long
as a need for it can be demonstrated.
The 2040 Regional Parks Policy Plan is the metropolitan system plan for regional recreation open
space with which local comprehensive plans must conform. This system statement highlights the
elements of the system plan which apply specifically to your community. Find the complete text of the
2040 Regional Parks Policy Plan on the Council's website.
2040 Regional Parks System Facilities
The Regional Parks System is comprised of four main types of facilities: regional parks, park reserves,
special recreation features and regional trails.
Regional Parks
Regional parks most notably contain a diversity of nature -based resources, either naturally occurring of
human -built, and are typically 200-500 acres in size. Regional parks accommodate a variety of passive
recreation activities.
Park Reserves
Park reserves, like regional parks, provide for a diversity of outdoor recreation activities. One major
feature that distinguishes a park reserve from a regional park is its size. The minimum size for a park
reserve is 1,000 acres. An additional characteristic of park reserves is that up to 20 percent of the park
reserve can be developed for recreational use, with at least 80 percent of the park reserve to be
managed as natural lands that protect the ecological functions of the native landscape.
Special Recreation Features
Special recreation features are defined as Regional Parks System opportunities not generally found in
the regional parks, park reserves or trail corridors. Special recreation features often require a unique
managing or programming effort.
Regional Trails
Regional trails are classified as 1) destination or greenway trails and 2) linking trails. Destination or
greenway trails typically follow along routes with high-quality natural resources that make the trail itself
a destination. Linking trails are predominately intended to provide connections between various
Regional Parks System facilities, most notably regional parks or park reserves.
Page - 32 1 2015 SYSTEM STATEMENT —ORONO REGIONAL PARKS ,
2040 Regional Parks System Components
The 2040 Regional Parks Policy Plan identifies six components which together comprise the vision for
the Regional Parks System in 2040, as described below.
Existing Regional Parks System Facilities: include Regional Parks System Facilities that are
open for public use. These facilities include land that is owned by regional park implementing agencies
and may include inholding parcels within the boundaries of these parks and trail corridors that have not
yet been acquired. Existing regional trails may include planned segments that will be developed in the
future.
Planned Regional Parks System Facilities (not yet open to the public): include Regional
Parks System Facilities that have a Council -approved master plan and may be in stages of acquisition
and development, but are not yet open for public use.
Regional Parks System Boundary Adjustments: include general areas identified as potential
additions to existing Regional Parks System Facilities to add recreational opportunities or protect
natural resources. Specific adjustments to park or trail corridor boundaries have not yet been planned.
Regional Park Search Areas: include general areas for future regional parks to meet the
recreational needs of the region by 2040 where the regional park boundary has not yet been planned.
Regional Trail Search Corridors: include proposed regional trails to provide connections between
Regional Parks System facilities where the trail alignment has not yet been planned.
2040 Regional Trail Search Corridor System Additions: include regional trail search corridors
that were added to the Regional Parks System as part of the 2040 Regional Parks Policy Plan,
Key Changes in the 2040 Regional Parks Policy Plan
Adopted by the Metropolitan Council in February 2015, the 2040 Regional Parks Policy Plan
incorporates the following changes:
Identify all proposed regional trails as regional trail search corridors
All proposed regional trails that are not yet open to the public and do not have a Metropolitan Council
approved master plan are represented as a general regional trail search corridor. The 2030 Regional
Parks Policy Plan depicted these trails with a proposed alignment. The alignment of these regional
trails will be determined in the future through a planning process led by the regional park implementing
agency. The alignment of these trails is subject to Metropolitan Council approval of a regional trail
master plan.
Acquire and develop ten new regional trails or trail extensions to meet the needs of the
region in 2040. The 2040 Regional Trail Search Corridor Additions include:
Carver County:
• County Road 61
• Highway 41
Page - 33 1 2015 SYSTEM STATEMENT - ORONO REGIONAL PARKS
Three Rivers Park District.
• CP Rail Extension
• Dakota Rail Extension
• Lake Independence Extension
• Lake Sarah Extension
• Minnetrista Extension
• North-South 1
• North-South 2
• West Mississippi River
The 2040 Regional Parks System Plan Map is depicted in Figure 1. Orono should consult the
complete 2040 Regional Parks Policy Plan in preparing its local comprehensive plan. In addition, Orono
should consult Thrive MSP 2040 and the current version of the Metropolitan Council's Local Planning
Handbook for specific information needed in its comprehensive plan.
System Plan Considerations Affecting Your Community
Regional Parks System Components in your community
The following Regional Parks System Components within Orono as identified in the 2040 Regional
Parks Policy Plan are listed below.
Regional Parks, Park Reserves, and Special Recreation Features
Lake Minnetonka Islands Regional Park: This is an existing regional park with an established
boundary. The regional park boundary as shown in Figure 2 should be acknowledged in the
comprehensive plan.
Baker Park Reserve: This is an existing park reserve with an established boundary. The park reserve
boundary as shown in Figure 2 should be acknowledged in the comprehensive plan.
Noerenberg Gardens: This is an existing special recreation feature with an established boundary. The
special recreation feature boundary as shown in Figure 2 should be acknowledged in the
comprehensive plan.
Regional Trails
Dakota Rail Regional Trail: This is an existing regional trail that is open to the public. The regional
trail travels through Camden Township, New Germany, Mayer, Waconia Township, and Laketown
Township in Carver County as well as St. Bonifacius, Minnetrista, Mound, Spring Park, Minnetonka
Beach, Orono and Wayzata in Hennepin County. Connects to Western Carver County Regional Trail
Search Corridor, County Road 10 Regional Trail Search Corridor, Gale Woods Farm, and the planned
Baker -Carver Regional Trail. The regional trail alignment as shown in Figure 2 should be acknowledged
in the comprehensive plan.
Lake Independence Regional Trail: This is an existing regional trail that is open to the public. The
regional trail travels through Orono, Medina, Loretto, and Corcoran as it connects the Luce Line State
Trail, Baker Park Reserve and Crow Hassan Park Reserve. The regional trail alignment as shown in
Figure 2 should be acknowledged in the comprehensive plan.
Page - 34 12015 SYSTEM STATEMENT — ORONO REGIONAL PARKS
Lake Independence Extension Regional Trail Search Corridor: This regional trail search corridor
was added to the Regional Parks System as part of the 2040 Regional Parks Policy Plan. The search
corridor travels through Orono, Tonka Bay, and Shorewood as it extends the Lake Independence
Regional Trail south connecting Luce Line State Trail, Dakota Rail Regional Trail, Lake Minnetonka
LRT Regional Trail and Highway 41 Regional Trail Search Corridor in Chanhassen, Three Rivers Park
District will lead a planning process in the future to determine the alignment of the regional trail. When
preparing its comprehensive plan, Orono should verify whether a master plan has been approved by
the Metropolitan Council. If a master plan has been approved, the planned regional trail alignment
should be acknowledged in the comprehensive plan. Otherwise, the general search corridor as shown
in Figure 2 should be acknowledged in the comprehensive plan.
North-South 1 Regional Trail Search Corridor: This regional trail search corridor was added to the
Regional Parks System as part of the 2040 Regional Parks Policy Plan. The search corridor travels
through Rogers, Corcoran, Medina, Orono, Wayzata, and Minnetonka as it connects Crow River
Regional Trail Search Corridor, Rush Creek Regional Trail, Luce Line State Trail, Dakota Rail Regional
Trail, Lake Minnetonka LRT Regional Trail and Highway 101 Regional Trail Search Corridor. Three
Rivers Park District will lead a planning process in the future to determine the alignment of the regional
trail. When preparing its comprehensive plan, Orono should verify whether a master plan has been
approved by the Metropolitan Council. If a master plan has been approved, the planned regional trail
alignment should be acknowledged in the comprehensive plan. Otherwise, the general search corridor
as shown in Figure 2 should be acknowledged in the comprehensive plan.
Please contact Three Rivers Park District for more information regarding Regional Parks System
Components in Orono.
State lands in your community
State park and open space units that provide outdoor recreation opportunities and natural resource
conservation for the public complement the Regional Parks System and are recognized in the 2040
Regional Parks Policy Plan. The following State lands as shown in Figure 2 are within Orono and
should be acknowledged in its comprehensive plan.
• Luce Line State Trail — Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
• Wolsfeld Woods Scientific and Natural Area — Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
• Wood -Rill Scientific and Natural Area — Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
Please contact the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources for more information about State
lands.
Page - 35 1 2015 SYSTEM STATEMENT — ORONO REGIONAL PARKS
Figure 1. 2040 Regional Parks System Plan Map
Regional Parks System
Twin Cities Metropolitan Area
- _.___---�_.---- i
I r" -I --
{� Anoka
County
f,- fb ! 1
FA,r— --- .. - --
t
u* +' __) .- _ .`... ,r I 'i Ramseyl_S 1 �. f/'_ -.
/
I 1, I _ r _i I rtNashington '.
! Three 1 - Count - \
I' Rivers -t-I r 11_I,/' County
tg
/ .,MiJinneapolis St
I I J Paul
ri
I ^� Carver `, Bloomington, -i -,r
county A'
) .i
I '
Dakota
f�cott ( County ! Y
County 1 .. .I, tL' '`'N
I
-------- L1111
-
_a
_ m
u�
m
Regional Parks
Regional Park Search Areas and
MR Regional Park¢
Regional Trail Search Corridors
i Park Reserves
Boundary Adjustments
Special Recreation Features
Planned Units
Search Areas
Regional Trail Comdor Land
Regional Trails
Regional Trail Search Corridors
— Exist, g
--- Planned
Regional Trails- 2000 System Additions
Existing State Trails
Lakes and Major Rivers
Minnesota Valley National Widitfe Refuge
Stale Parks
Stale Wildlife Management Areas
- - (Publicly Accessible)
Scientific and Natural Areas (SNA)
Other Parks and Preserves
Page - 36 1 2015 SYSTEM STATEMENT - ORONO REGIONAL PARKS
Figure 2. Regional Parks System Facilities in and adjacent to Orono
Regional Parks System
City of Orono, Hennepin County
-lMaple,P,lain Morns Medina
1
T Baker 4s
SNA
1:
3
Plymouth
IndelbeirJence J l� 'doaUFJI SNA
Long
� r � 1 � Lake
ra
re `ar LuaB Llne Ste to Trail °�'•_.•_„'v - "°`
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1 Wayzata
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Noer¢nberg �_-__-A•
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a Mens
e
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E° 51On yWoodland
l ( Minnetonka
( SPring Beach
/J Lake
Park - --' Mlnneionka
-.e.�-..,.�-•
Deephaven
/ leis isi��al
Mound
Tonka ;
Bay
Shorewood �
Y Greenw Minnetonka
x�
Mltra
Regional Parks
Regional Park Search Areas and
--- Existing State Trails
10 Regional Parks
Regional Trail Search Corridors
Street Cenlerlines(NCompess)
Park Reserves
fo Boundary Adjustments
Lakes and Major Rivers
Special Recreation Features
Minnesota Valley National Vdldlife Refuge
Planned Units
Search Areas
.J Slate Parks
Regional Trail Corridor Land
State Wildlife Management Areas
Regional Trails
Regional Trail Search Corridors
(Publicly Accessible)
— Existing
Scientific and Natural Areas SNA)
--- Planned
Regional Trails- 2040 System Adddlons
Other Parks and Preserves
Page - 37 1 2015 SYSTEM STATEMENT -ORONO REGIONAL PARKS
I /SON\I
PARK COMMISSION AGENDA ITEM
HfSHP�
Item No.: 6 Date: September 51h 2017
Item Description: Lurton Park
Presenter: Adam T. Edwards, P.E. Agenda Section: Chairman's Report
Dir, Public Works/City Engineer
1. Purpose. The purpose of this item is provide the Commission an update on the status of the park,
discuss a paver donation policy.
2. Background. In 2015 the Lorton family approached the City about improving visitorship to Lurton
Park by transitioning it to an Off Leash Park. In the fall of 2016 the Council approved the plan,
construction of the park, the relevant ordinance changes and adopted rules for the park. Construction
began in the fall of 2016 with the grand opening in June of 2017.
3. Status. The table below lists the status of the project as of August 30`x', 2017.
Item
Description
Status
I
Perimeter Fence
Complete
2
Wood Post Fence
Complete
3
Improved fence with Top Rails
Complete
4
Pedestrian Gate
Complete
5
Vehicular Gate
Complete
6
Parking Expansion (Double/addn 400 SY)
Complete
8
Dog Waste Station
Installed
9
Porta Potty Pad
Will install in year 2
10
Information Signs
Complete
12
Trail Signs
Fall 2017
13
Road Sin
To be installed Summer 2019
14
Well
Complete
15
Bench
complete
16
Picnic Table
Complete
17
Shade Sails
Complete
18
Improve Trails
Complete
Dog Bone Bench
Complete
Paver Entrance
Next two weeks
4. Budget. To date we have spent or obligated $129,064 of the $146,591 budgeted for the project.
5. Pavers. Chairman Meyers and Commissioner Johnson have proposed the addition of a paver
walkway from the entrance through the leashing area to the two gates leading to the off leash areas. The
pavers also represent an opportunity to collect donations for the park. The donation policy will need to be
updated to move forward on that portion of the project.
6. Eagle Scout Projects. Two Boy Scouts have proposed Eagle Projects for the park. One project will
focus on clearing branch debris for the small dog area and construction wood duck houses for the area
near the drainage pond. The other project proposes to add some dog agility obstacles in the large dog area.
COMMISION ACTION REQUESTED
Direction on way forward for paver donation proposal.
Exhibits
A. Lorton Park paver Layout
Prepared By: Reviewed By: Approved By:
_.---coo
LWI
Ejw#b! T
R N�
PARK COMMISSION AGENDA ITEM
Item No.: yZ
Item Description: Saga Hills Improvement Plan Update
Date: September 5`h, 2017
Presenter: Adam T. Edwards, P.E. Agenda Section: Chairman's Report
Dir, Public Works/City Engineer
1. Purpose. The purpose of this item is to provide an update to the Commission on the Saga Hills
Improvement Project.
2. Background. The Park Commission identified Saga Hills as a focus park for 2016 and 2017. After
engagements with the local residents and historical research the Saga Hills subcommittee recommended a
set of improvements for the park. The improvements were reviewed and discussed at the February Park
Commission Work Session. At the March 3rd, 2017 meeting the Park Commission voted 7-0 to forward
the project to the City Council for approval. At the March 131" City Council meeting the Council
approved the project and solicitation of quotes for the project. Staff solicited quotes and at the April 101h
meeting Council approved the low quote from Minnesota Native landscapes for $19,597.50 to perform
the tree clearing and revegetation of 4.5 acres of hill top. The contractor has completed the initial tree
clearing and first round of invasive species spraying. Further prep will continue through the fall so that
they can seed the site in the spring. Public Works as trimmed trees around the parking lot and trails,
installed signs and procured stone benches. Additional tree trimming and removal will occur this fall.
3. Scope of Work. The scope of work for the improvement project includes clearing trees from &
planting the hilltop area with native grasses; clearing the trail pathways & around parking lot; installing
trail & information signs; and installing trail gates. See Exhibit A for plans.
4. Cost. The budget for the project is $36,780.
5. Funding. The project is being funded from the Park Fund.
6. Timeline / Status.
What
Who
When
Approval of the plan
City Council
March 13'
Requests for proposal for clearing and planting items
Public Works
March
Approval of contract for clearing and planting item
City Council
Aril 10 s
Trail and Parking Lot clearing
STS / Volunteers
March -Ma
Install Signs
Public Works
May
Clear and plant hill top
Minnesota Native
Landscapes
May 2017 -May
2018
COMMISION ACTION REQUESTED
Information only.
Exhibits
A. Saga Hills Plan
Prepared By: Reviewed By: Approved By:
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