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HomeMy WebLinkAbout04-06-1992 Park Commission Minutes , , .� � MINUTES OF THE PARK COMMISSION MEETING OF APRIL 6, 1992 ATTENDANCE 7 : 13 P.M. The Park Commission met on the above date with the following members present : Chairperson Dick Flint , Susan Wilson , Stephen Johnston , Sherokee Ilse , and Lili McMiilan . Robert Howells , Phil Bradley and Alex Vongries were absent . The following represented the City staff : John Gerhardson , Public Works Director; and Teri Naab, City Recorder . (#1 ) APPROVAL OF MINUTES Chair Flint clarified that on Page 11 , second paragraph , it should read as follows, "Chair Flint stated that OBA has let the Commission know they plan to request funding from Orono for the ball field" . It was moved by Wilson , seconded by Ilse , to approve the minutes of the regular meeting of the Park Commission held on March 2 , 1992 , with the above noted amendment . Ayes 5 , nays 0. (#2) BIKE HIKE TRAIL OLD CRYSTAL BAY ROAD Chair Flint explained that the City has been working on a bike trail for a long time , but it was difficult to build a bike trail because the City was missing the following : money, land and staff familiar with developing a trail . Therefore the County was asked to participate with the venture. Chair Flint introduced people from the County as follows : Jim White , Hennepin County Park Board Commissioner ; Don King , Chief Landscape Architect ; and Del Miller , Land Acquisition Officer for the County Park Board . White explained that the Hennepin County Park system has 25 ,000 acres of parks throughout five Counties . Many of those parks have been trying to get traits . He noted that there has not been a lot of expenditure of the Park ' s budget within Orono. He noted it would be desirable to have a system that would tie Baker Park with the Schools system, the Luce Line Trail and Noerenberg Park. White explained their options for a trail were to use the existing right- of-way or use land not a part of that right-of-way. He stated that County funds wou I d be used to bu i I d the t ra i I , of wh i ch much of the funding is reimbursed from the State through Open-Space Grants. Miller handed out a fact sheet on the trail . He stated that the County has agreed that the route proposed for the trail is the most viable . The trail has been proposed for the east side of the road because of a power tine on the western side . Also, it appeared to be easier to develop the trail on the eastern side because there are fewer residential properties on that side . The following options were studied : 1 / ', � , MINUTES OF THE PARK COMMISSION MEETING OF APRIL 6, 1992 BIKE/HIKE TRAIL - CONT. A. Reviewed all properties along roadway and wherever there was undeveloped land , it was suggested that additional right-of-way be acquired . Where there was existing developed land with a setback close to the road , it was opted to use the existing right-of-way for the trail . B. This option would put the trail totally within the existing road right-of-way and would require some storm sewer improvements . Milier noted they weighed the cost of the storm sewer versus acquisition of land. Chair Flint noted they had looked at a third alternative , that being not running along Old Crystal Bay Road and using land away from existing roads . This was determined not to be a viable option because there being no cost effective way to cross Highway 12 and the Burlington Northern tracks . Miller reviewed a map that compared Options A and B. The entire trail will be about 2 . 6 miles from the Luce Line Traii up to and including the section in Baker Park . The additional acquisition for Option A represents a total of 5 . 37 acres . The total developmental cost of the trail would be approximately $200,000 . AIl of the land acquisition for Option A occurs in the undeveloped property adjacent to the trail within three significant areas: Watertown Road area; south of County Road 6; and north of County Road 6 . Additional engineering costs and construction costs wou � d be incurred with Option B as storm sewer would need to be provided . King explained that the trail wou � d be an 8' wide , asphalt paved bike/hike trail , similar to the trail through Baker Park . Gerhardson stated that the Bridge across the railroad is proposed to be expanded to at least a 12 ' driving lane wide with a 4' wide walk on each side . Bridget Hust , 820 Old Crystal Bay Road South , asked why the trail was not proposed for the west side of the road which would take the children directly to the school without crossing over the road . Miller stated that the parcel between County Road 6 and Highway 12 is entirely owned by the public with the exclusion of the church property. There is a signal at the intersection of Highway 12 and Old Crystal Bay Road and a Stop Sign at the intersection of County Road 6 and Old Crystal Bay Road and the roadway is not heavily trafficked , thus allowing for crossing over. Also the power line on the west side of the road was a deterrent . 2 MINUTES OF THE PARK COMMISSION MEETING OF APRIL 6, 1992 BIKE/HIKE TRAIL - CONT. Hust stated that during bus time , Old Crystal Bay Road is very congested and crossing on a bike would be very dangerous . Miiler noted they were not thinking of children riding their bikes to school on a daily basis , but rather using their bikes to get to extra curricular events . Hust asked if the stop light would be upgraded to include a button for pedestrians to push to change the light . Miller reviewed a concept of the Schools , that being that anyone on the trail system during busy school times would not be involved with traffic by being on the eastern side. Hust suggested providing a cross walk near the church property to cross to the school . A resident asked if there was a consideration of putting the trail behind the school . Milier noted that was considered but land acquisition was a problem near County Road 6 and the trail would have had to go back to Old Crystal Bay Road to cross over at the light on Highway 12 . Duke Hust , 820 Old Crystal Bay Road South , asked how this trail system fit into the Highway 12 corridor. Chair Flint noted that MnDot would have to provide a trail crossing as the trail will be in place prior to the upgrade of the highway . Paula Minnich , 340 Old Crystal Bay Road South , asked where parking would be provided to gain access to the trail . Parking is a problem now for those who access the trail at Old Crystal Bay Road. King noted that has been a continual problem. The DNR has not provided for parking near the Luce Line Trail . He noted they typicaliy provide parking for their lines , but felt they would not provide for parking with this proposal since it is intended for usage of Community residents and those who are already on the trail . Miller noted that this will not be a destination-type trail , but rather a connector between the Luce Line Trail and Baker Park, so therefore should not increase parking along Old Crystal Bay Road . Chair Flint stated that the Park Commission plans to provide parking at McCulley Road for the Luce Line Trail . 3 MINUTES OF THE PARK COMMISSION MEETING OF APRIL 6, 1992 BIKE/HIKE TRAIL - CONT. Rodney Minnich felt that having the trail right in front of his house would actually deter parking as there would be no room for parking . King suggested that some form of "no parking" could be implemented , and felt that this trail system would not add to the current parking problem. Pat Daugherty stated that he favors the trail . He believes that the trail could deter future widening of Old Crystai Bay Road . It will help to maintain it as a rural road , not a major artery . Rich Wysocki , 2770 Rainey Road , asked if a study has been done to determine actual usage of the trail . King noted it was difficult to determine the draw in less densely populated areas . Future development of the City will determine usage on the trail . Wysocki asked if the trail will definitely be developed . Chair Flint noted that a survey of Orono residents indicated a high priority for a bike/hike trail system. The Park Commission wants to now add a north/south connector because we already have the Luce Line running east/west . Old Crystal Bay Road was the logical location as it ties up with the school and the new City facilities and is totally within Orono. Also, the County is willing to pay for the trail system at this location. He asked residents their opinion on Options A and B. Wysocki noted that the trail will connect to Noerenberg Park , but that area is very restricted . William Hyle , 2790 Silver View Drive , indicated that trees would need to be removed on his property to allow the trail system to be developed . He felt this would change the character of his property. King explained in that area the trail would be within the right- of-way and the trees along the right-of-way would be maintained if possible . He felt that trails are good for the Community and indicated they did not want any adjacent property owners to have a negative experience from the proposed system. 4 MINUTES OF THE PARK COMMISSION MEETING OF APRIL 6, 1992 BIKE/HIKE TRAILS - CONT. White reminded them that the City had invited the County to join with this effort . Historically the Hennepin Parks has been drawn to a more westerly route. He reiterated that it would be very difficult to provide a separate corridor for the trail because of the problems with Highway 12 , Burlington Northern and the wetlands in the area. Greg Lawton , 425 Old Crystal Bay Road , felt that crossing the intersections may be more difficult than what a child could handle. He felt there wasn ' t a significant difference between either of the Options. He asked if anyone has approached Burlington Northern to inquire if they would allow a pathway along their adjacent line. Miller stated that has not been researched , but felt the trains in that area are moving too fast and it would be too dangerous. Bob Will , 160 Old Crystal Bay Road North , was concerned that the path would be screened . He felt that the option of the trail being within the right-of-way would make the homeowners along the proposed route much happier . King reiterated the increased cost because of the need for storm sewer . A resident asked what would be provided to ensure the bikers would stop at the intersection of Watertown Road and Old Crystal Bay Road . King noted that would have to be addressed . A resident suggested a pedestrian bridge across the intersection of Highway 12 and Old Crystal Bay Road to provide a safer crossing . Miller noted the bridge would be more expensive than the entire project . McMillan asked what kind of maintenance is involved with a trail like this. King noted they are swept periodically. Johnson asked about winter use of the trail . King noted that snowmobiles and horses would not be allowed on the trail . Miller stated that the trail could be used for cross country skiing , and that could be discussed at a future date. 5 MINUTES OF THE PARK COMMISSION MEETING OF APRIL 6, 1992 BIKE/HIKE TRAIL - CONT. Ilse asked for the residents ' opinion on the Options presented . Hust stated she preferred no trail . A resident said either option was acceptable. A resident from Old Crystal Bay Road and Fox Street preferred no trail . He questioned the usage of the trail . Mrs . Minnich stated that most bike traffic along Old Crystai Bay Road are avid bikers and do not need a bike trail . Ilse stated that as a mother , she feels a need for additionai bike trails . A resident felt that if the trail were contiguous to the asphalt , it would not be safe enough for children or even adults. Miller noted it would not be contiguous . He noted that the road is probably not used for biking purposes currently because of its limitation as a bike trail . Chair Flint advised that the Commission will be making a recommendation to the Council , and they will make the final decision . He noted residents would be informed of updates . He noted that the trail south of the Luce Line Trail has not been considered in detail with this proposai . Mr . Minnich stated he was very positive about the project . White stated that the trail proposed south of the Luce Line Trail has not been included within their CIP. Miller felt that time and money should be invested so it doesn ' t look like a typical bike trail as the character of Orono is very different than other cities. Mrs . Minnich stated that she would like to see a trail system but does not want added traffic through her property. Mr. Will stated that he is generally in favor of the trail , but rem i nded them that the tra i I wou I d be bu i I t for many others outs i de the Community limits . King explained that the property owners will have input on screening to be provided . 6 MINUTES OF THE PARK COMMISSION MEETING OF APRIL 6, 1992 BIKE/HIKE TRAIL - CONT. Hennepin Park Commissioner Bonien stated that she was in attendance to ensure natural vegetation would be protected along the trail . She stated that residents do want to have more trail systems . White stated that it is possible the trail could be started this summer but probably would not be realized within the summer of 1992 . He asked that the City make a recommendation on the trail within 60 days . Ilse asked if all affected residents were informed . Gerhardson noted all residents along the trail to Noerenberg Park were informed . He noted the only concern he had received was from the Hyles as it is relatively close to their property. Craig Brandenburg , 2775 Silver View Drive, asked where the additional drainage would go, and noted additional water could create quite a problem for a parcel . Gerhardson noted it would go by pipe rather than by ditch to the railroad right-of-way. It could be connected to existing culverts . This would have to be addressed if the trail is approved. Chair Flint thanked the residents for their input on this matter . He expressed appreciation for the large turn-out . Johnston asked what the amount of the drainage costs wou � d be. Wilson wasn ' t clear if the County would pay for the screening along the trail . Johnston noted the amount quoted for the project is approximately 50% higher than the average cost of a trail . He stated that the County is considering the storm sewer project to be approximately the same cost as the additional acquisition of land , and the County is expecting the City to pay for the storm sewer if that is the option that is approved . Gerhardson noted the cost for the storm sewer can be appropriated through MSA funds . He thought the County is looking for conceptual approval of the project so they can proceed with the first phase of the project . He felt that they could get conceptual approval from Council of the entire project . A feasibility study may be required to use the MSA funds . It was moved by Ilse, seconded by McMillan , to recommend conceptual approval of the bike/hike trail connecting Baker Park to the Luce Line Trail with a trail along the east side of Old Crystal Bay Road . 7 MINUTES OF THE PARK COMMISSION MEETING OF APRIL 6, 1992 BIKE/HIKE TRAIL - CONT. Wilson felt she was unprepared to determine if this is a good project to proceed with . Gerhardson explained that the Commission is only seeking conceptual approval of the trail so the project can proceed to the next step which will be to request a feasibility study to be al ► owed to spend MSA funds for the storm sewer project . Johnston felt the motion should request the Council to request a feasibility study . Ilse accepted the amendment to the motion . Ayes 5 , nays 0. Johnston suggested that Hennepin Parks be requested to provide as much planning for the project as possible rather than use the City Engineer . McMillan was concerned about the many access drives that would cross the trail . Johnston stated that he wouid encourage the off-road plan near the schooi to provide a safer traif . McMiltan ask that emergency vehicies be provided with access to the trail . BEDERWOOD PARK PLAYGROUND EQUIPMENT Gerhardson explained they have received four bids for playground equipment from the following : Rainbow, Minnesota Playground , Miracle Equipment , and Earl Anderson . The lowest bid at $17 , 742 . 00 was received from Minnesota Playground . He noted that after further review, they have narrowed the decision down to two bidders , Miracle Equipment and Earl Anderson as their equipment was superior to the others . Miracle Equipment submitted two bids, one at $21 , 771 . 00 which would include a 17 ' slide that turns out to be 12 ' 6" slide ; the second $20, 359 .00 for an 11 ' slide that turns out to be 7 ' . Earl Anderson presented a proposal of $25 , 395 .00 which included a 6' slide . He noted Anderson was the only one that presented a layout of the equipment and had included some of the handicapped requirements , and an additional amount to upgrade the existing climber . The proposal by Anderson less those additional items would be $23, 256 .00. He noted that he is awaiting an opinion from the City Attorney on whether they have to accept the low bidder even though its equipment appears less desirable. 8 MINUTES OF THE PARK COMMISSION MEETING OF APRIL 6, 1992 BEDERWOOD PARK PLAYGROUND EQUIPMENT - CONT. Ilse asked the group to comment on the additional handicapped equipment and asked Gerhardson if he had asked the Attorney about the slide. Gerhardson referenced a handbook received by the risk insurer of the City which inciudes guidelines of playground equipment . He is asking the Attorney what the ramifications would be if the City exceeded those guidelines . Wilson asked if the handicapped laws have been finalized . Gerhardson stated they will be in effect by the end of the year . Johnston felt that until the law is defined , they should wait on the additional handicapped equipment . It was moved by Wilson , seconded by McMillan , to authorize the Committee to recommend to the Council the purchase of playground equipment for Bederwood Park , and not to exceed $25 , 000. Johnston stated that he did not want to spend any additional time on the i ssue , and fe I t they cou I d go w i th the I ower b i dder , M i rac I e Equipment , and go with the largest slide the Attorney opines is acceptable. Ilse noted the Committee could meet after this meeting to come up with a recommendation . Ayes 5 , nays 0. Chair Flint noted that the Committee ' s recommendation will be brought to the Council at their meeting to be on April 27th . Chair Flint stated that they have met once to discuss the proposed ball fields on the school property . Another meeting will be held . Negotiations have started with the Hockey Association on the site for the ball fields . Johnston reiterated that the problem with the ball fields being located on the western portion of the property is that it limits the use of the ball fields to little league . He felt that good decisions were not being made, but rather decisions are being made based upon politics . He stated that the City should not expend funds on a ball field that allows limited potential uses . He would support complete City funding of a ball field that serves multiple uses . Ilse noted that this is the last year that OBA has authority to use Bederwood Park . 9 MINUTES OF THE PARK COMMISSION MEETING OF APRIL 6, 1992 BEDERWOOD PLAYGROUND EQUIPMENT - CONT. Gerhardson stated that OBA has asked the City to help with the drainage problem at Bederwood Park . He asked what the Commission feit should be done with Bederwood Park after OBA moves. OTHER Gerhardson explained that he has discussed with the Ottens the possibility of the bike/hike trail system running through their property north of County Road 6. The Ottens were opposed to the proposal if the trail runs through the center of their property but did not have a problem with the trail adjacent to County Road 6 . He stated that they would need to acquire approximately 60' from the Ottens and the Ottens seemed willing to discuss this possibility. NAME OF NEW CITY PARK Chair Flint asked Wilson for her recommendation on a name for the new City park. Wiison stated that the previous owners of the land still live adjacent to the site and she proposed the name "Eliis Pond" . CDBG FUNDING Chair Flint explained that the Council rejected the Commission ' s request to use $25,000 CDBG funds for a Comprehensive Park Plan and stated they would rather use the funds for organizations helping the needy in the area. He stated it was brought up at the next Council meeting and Council agreed that the Commission would receive $2, 736 .00. ADJOURNMENT 10: 17 P.M. It was moved by Wilson , seconded by Johnson , to adjourn the regular meeting of the Park Commission at 10: 17 p.m. Ayes 5 , nays 0. The next meeting wiil be Tuesday, May 5 , 1992 at 7 :00 p.m. %� � Richard Flint , Chair Person 10