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Home My WebLink About09-09-2025 - Agenda Packet Park Commission - Regular MeetingAgenda Parks Commission Meeting Tuesday, September 9, 2025, 6:00 PM City Council Chambers | 2780 Kelley Parkway, Orono, MN 55356 952-249-4600 /oronomn.gov 1. Parks Commission Minutes 2. Hackberry Park Revitalization Project Design Update Call to Order Pledge of Allegiance Approval of Agenda Approval of Minutes Public Comment (limit 3 minutes per person) For items not on the agenda. To add a comment, approach the podium, state your name and address. Comments are limited to three (3) minutes. No action will be taken. Presentations Staff Report Chair Report Commissioner Reports Adjournment Sign up for email notifications at oronomn.gov 1 Date: September 9, 2025 Item: 1 Presenter: Joe Ruthenberg Section: Approval of Minutes Title: Parks Commission Minutes 1.Purpose: The purpose of this item is to approve the Parks Commission minutes. 2.Staff Recommendation: Approve the Parks Commission meeting minutes. 3.Park Commission Action Requested: Approve the Parks Commission meeting minutes. AGENDA ITEM Exhibits 2025-08-05 PK Minutes 2 Minutes Park Commission Regular Meeting Tuesday, August 5, 2025, 6:00 PM City Council Chambers 2780 Kelley Parkway, Orono, MN 55356 Page 1 of 2 Chair Roath called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m., followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. ROLL CALL The Orono Park Commission members present: Chair Brian Roath, Commissioners Janie Delaney, Mollie Reynolds, Michael Huddy, and Jacob Selseth. Commissioners Absent: Kim Carswell and Gordy Stofer. Staff present: Park Superintendent Joe Ruthenberg APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA Huddy moved, Reynolds seconded, to approve the agenda for the Park Commission meeting as submitted. VOTE: Ayes 5, Nays 0. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1 May 6, 2025, Park Commission meeting minutes Roath moved, Huddy seconded, to approve the minutes of the May 6, 2025, Park Commission meeting as submitted. VOTE: Ayes 5, Nays 0. PUBLIC COMMENT None STAFF REPORT 2. Park Standard Assessment Update Ruthenberg updated the Parks Commission on the City Council’s action on park signage and the recently conducted assessment of park needs for projects and improvements, including tree removal and replacement, benches, picnic tables, painting, trash recycling receptacles, and upgraded docks and playground equipment. Commissioners asked questions of staff, discussed timing and prioritizing, and indicated they would like to see additional signage at Big Island Park. They noted everything on the list is necessary, but it will come down to the order of work, and discussed which projects are larger and would need to be part of the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) review. 3. Hackberry Park Updates Ruthenberg gave background on what had gone before in Hackberry Park planning, including an open house and survey for residents on the needs of the park. People were able to give feedback on three different concept plans. Survey comments led to an updated design. He said the goal was to have enough of a concept design in place to apply for a grant by the Sept. 30 deadline. Commissioners said it would be important to look at existing versus design topographical contour lines, questioning if the public realizes how much of the park could be graded in the various plans. 3 Minutes Park Commission Regular Meeting Tuesday, August 5, 2025, 6:00 PM City Council Chambers 2780 Kelley Parkway, Orono, MN 55356 Page 2 of 2 Commissioners liked natural features and trees and advocated for more conservative grading. Survey comments supported retaining the sledding hill and mentioned missing having an ice-skating rink. Commissioners were concerned about rushing the design. It was noted that the park is not a sports complex, but a neighborhood park that supports youth sports activities for younger kids. The consensus was to make the planned workshop meeting in September a special meeting so the neighbors and interested residents could be invited to attend for additional input, as the August 5 meeting conflicted with Night to Unite festivities. 4. Antoine Park Update Ruthenberg reported that the Antoine Park plan is in the early stages, and a community open house was planned for August 20. There will also be a survey conducted. 5. Additional Park Commission Work Session Staff had proposed a work session on guiding documents planning for Tuesday, September 9. Commissioners also wished to have a special meeting with public input on Hackberry Park Reynolds moved, Selseth seconded, to have a Parks Commission work session at 5 p.m. on Tuesday, September 9, followed by a regular meeting on Hackberry Park at 6 p.m. VOTE: Ayes 5, Nays 0. 6. Tree Lighting Ruthenberg reported that the holiday tree lighting is planned again this year, but requires soliciting donations, and City staff cannot do that. He recommended forming an additional Parks subcommittee to help with tree lighting planning and fundraising. Commissioners said it may be time to review the format and location of the tree lighting and questioned the appropriateness of fireworks at the holidays. Several individuals expressed interest in a subcommittee. CHAIR REPORT Chair Roath gave a report. COMMISSIONERS’ REPORTS Commissioners reported on subcommittee activities. ADJOURNMENT Huddy moved, Reynolds seconded, to adjourn the meeting at 8:41 p.m. to September 9, 2025. VOTE: Ayes 5, Nays 0. ATTEST: _________________________________________ Brian Roath, Chair 4 Date: September 9, 2025 Item: 2 Presenter: Joe Ruthenberg, Superintendent - Parks, Facilities Section: Staff Report Title: Hackberry Park Revitalization Project Design Update 1.Purpose: The purpose of this item is to update the commission on the Hackberry Park revitalization project design. The City Engineer will provide a briefing on work to-date and the way forward. 2.Background: Improving Hackberry Park has been a city focus for over a decade. The design work is a continuation from the park planning completed in 2023 (report attached). In 2016 the city entered into a life estate agreement to gain possession of 140 Hackberry Hill, which was a residential parcel in the middle of the park. The city took possession of the parcel in 2023, and subsequently completed the demolition of the structures on the parcel. This project includes drainage improvements for the park and surrounding neighborhood, much needed infrastructure repairs, reorienting the playing fields, improved parking and would provide potential improvements such a ADA accessible paths and support facilities. At the May 27 meeting, the City Council approved funding for the design phase of improvements at Hackberry Park and directed staff to conduct community engagement on the site layout prior to proceeding to detailed design. To do so a design committee was formed with members of the park commission, city staff, and the landscape architect consultant. The committee reviewed work to date, established three concept layouts that were used to solicit input via online and in person public engagement. The community engagement efforts largely confirmed the stakeholder feed back received during the master planning process of 2023. Feed back largely fell in to the following groups: Field configuration: ball fields quantity and location, Multi use field size quantity and location Parking: location and size Amenities: preserve existing playgrounds, sports court, and sledding hill, consider shelter and restroom facility Landscaping: preserve healthy trees, add Trees, use native plantings Using the feedback the committee developed an updated layout focused on maximizing open space while providing safer parking and youth sports options. (attached) 3.Cost: The project costs will be refined during the design process. The estimate from the masterplan process is $1,117,000 if all contemplated design elements are completed. The CIP estimated $895,000 for select elements from the masterplan. 4.Funding: Funding for the improvements will include expenditures from Parks and Stormwater budgets, as AGENDA ITEM 5 well as revenues from grants, donations, and contributions from stakeholder partners. Exhibits A. Design Concept B. Survey Feedback C. Master Plan Summary 6 0’ 30’ 60’0’35’70’ HACKBERRY PARKHACKBERRY PARK CONCEPT B CONCEPT B EXISTING BASKETBALL COURT EXISTING PLAYGROUND EXISTING TREES ELM LN MAPLE LN WILLOW DR NHACKBERRY HILLSafer parking ADA friendly parking & sidewalks Additional trees for shade Native plantings that support pollinators Multi-use fields Softball/ baseball Stormwater pond Picnic tablesBike racks Restrooms / drinking fountain/ shelter? Sledding hill EXISTING TREES 7 Hackberry Survey Feedback Results Who took this survey: 8 Concept A: What do you like about the design? Open-Ended Response  Not the one in like  Not much.  Zippo  Nothing  Nothing. It is way too overbuilt according to national park and recreation standards.  Simple and easy. Parking off of willow is great.  Seems the most balanced of the 3 options  Parking access on willow  Parking  parking isn't splitting it down the middle  Some parking  I like the parking  Parking. Lots of use of entire area.  Parking lot to keep parking off of Willow to avoid children or pets running in front of passing cars. Avoids cars backing out onto Willow. North ballfield location.  Parking entrance off Willow Easy access to all fields from parking Two ball fields and multi- purpose field Bathroom near playground  Parking lot is easy to get in and out of, maintain sledding hill, storm water pond with native plants!  Parking and keeping the play ground. I like that the sports fields maximize space but I think you could fit a youth soccer field that overlaps with the baseball field as they would be opposite seasons.  Two Baseball Fields is very important; the OBO 4-6 years has grown over 20% leaving only a few field options and sometimes going offsite to different neighbor city. This should not be the case. Parking lot is critical. Way to many close calls with young kids, dogs and older parents parking off willow and fast drivers. No one feels safe visiting for sports, etc. People are not always paying attention. Yes to the playground/baskball court. Although the hoop is not adjustable making it hard for anyone under the age of 10 to play. I even called the company - it's stationary. The tress to block the fields for shade. The bathroom designated area is essential and I like it removed from Willow WAY to many cars stopping by to use it and the trash. If it's tucked , maybe less of this.  Keeps both baseball fields  large fields  I like that you get a lot of the things you are looking for-park, baseball, soccer, sledding, parking  seems to maximize efficiency of various uses, parking doesn't consume plan like Concept C  Two ball fields is critical. Open mixed use field is good, but basically same size as current field.  Both baseball fields are oriented for the bleachers to be close to parking lot. Encouraging people to use parking lot more than the road.  I like the two baseball fields and the storm water pond addressing an area of drainage concern.  Keeps 2 baseball fields! 9  Multiple baseball fields, central parking, bathroom by park.  Fans of baseball/softball will be away from Willow  I like that is has two ball fields and a multi-purpose field.  I like the 2 ball fields and the separation of the multi use field  Maximizing field space while maintaining the park and shelter area.  The stormwater pond location at the corner of Willow and Maple, the proximity of the hard fields (infield and basketball court) and playground to each other (easy to keep an eye on multiple children if one is playing ball and another is on the playground).  Plant idea.  Pollinators and the overall plan  I like that the restrooms, fountains and shelter are close to the playground, but are also easily accessible from the dugouts.  That the basketball court and playground remain the same and sidewalks will provide ADA access - that applies to each of the concepts.  I like that it leaves the sledding hill  Sledding hill and restroom location  Restrooms appear to be located where the house used to be  Pond and parking lot are nice features; its great to have sidewalks/walking paths going through the park Concept A: What do you dislike about the design? Open-Ended Response  Nothing  Nothing  Nothing  It's my favorite  Optimized for most activities  Smaller parking lot  Cars parking on the streets  parking looks too tight.  Parking spots in the middle of the lot, not much multi use field options.  Large paved parking area eats up a lot of grass area. Would require a lot of earth work/grading/retaining walls  Parking lot takes up valuable mixed use space  Parking on hackberry, maple, and elm  Parking area seems too small still  No on the parking stalls. Never get rid of green scape for hard scape. When we get rid of green we will never get it back.  Doesn’t seem to have enough parking.  Parking lot driveways are too close together. Parking lot is on edge of outfield  Parking lot entry/exit is only on Willow  Parking looks limited and dysfunctional which could lead to cars parking on the street by the houses again. 10  Parking lot looks like it may be tight to navigate during peak game times.  The way the fields are angled, the size and entrance of the parking lot.  The south ballfield has the balls hitting out towards Willow. Both the entrance and the exit to the parking lot are on Willow. Seems to be a smaller parking lot.  It would be nice to have another multi-use field.  Only one multi use field  Mixed use. Have dedicated space  Not enough field space.  Not maximizing space  Too busy  Way too “busy” of a design. Trying to pack too much into too little space.  Little busy  not enough trees  Balls hit towards Willow Parents will park on Hackberry in the “west” field as they park closest to a field of play vs a parking lot. Don’t like an opened water. Need blanket room and “relax” area.  I don’t like the baseball field situated that way, seems like foul balls could be an issue  Hitting balls toward a busy street and catch pond is not safe. Carving up the park like this for parking hardcover is wasting green space for citizens. This is not what the citizens asked for.  The ball fields backing up against each other  Very baseball/softball focus. Limited options for multi use fields  Stray balls close to parking on all sides. Limited multi use Cannot use multi and ball field at the same time  I don't love that the baseball field gets moved closer to the playground  Baseball field facing Willow will need an outfield fence high enough to stop balls from Willow traffic.  The baseball field next to Hackberry Hill will block the view of the park for some neighbors. The bleachers are not necessary. People use blankets and chairs to view activities, placing them where they choose. And the restrooms/shelter is too close to neighbors' homes and there is a concern about late night gatherings after hours (teens). It looks like the fencing for the south field will block some of the sledding hills too.  Nervous about how the gradient will need to change on the north half of the park for a flat baseball field  Storm water pond worries me as a parent- I don’t want any body of water for my littles to fall into. Also, bugs are already bad at Hackberry……. Standing water would worsen that situation.  Storm run off. It’s going to lead to lots of misquotes there.  Two baseball fields are essential. The OBO 4–6-year-old program has grown over 20%, and there are now very limited field options — sometimes even requiring games to be held in neighboring cities. That shouldn't be happening. The parking lot is critical. There have been way too many close calls involving young kids, dogs, and older parents parking along Willow, combined with fast drivers. It doesn’t feel safe for families visiting for sports or events. People are often distracted or not paying attention. I fully support the playground and basketball court. However, the current hoop is not adjustable, which makes it tough for kids under 10 to use. I even contacted the company — it's a fixed, non-lowering hoop. Trees for shade around the fields are also a must — not just for comfort but for safety 11 during hot days. The bathroom designated area is essential and I like it removed from Willow WAY to many cars stopping by to use it and the trash. If it's tucked , maybe less of this. Concept A: Additional feedback Open-Ended Response  I prefer this concept  leave the mature trees. I did not like how many trees were cut down when they redid Bederwood Park.  I also like that there is a paved path from the parking lot to each of the key activity areas.  This is my second choice out of all the plans.  Upgrade the current playground that is there. Oronos playgrounds are just all subpar compared to surrounding cities.  Please update the playground equipment. I love Plymouths many little neighbors playgrounds/parks and I wish Orono would enhance their overall park system to something closer to Plymouth.  Any upgrades to the playground?  Would LOVE to see additional benches near the existing playground. Currently it’s just tables, benches would enhance for parents.  A picnic area needs to be by the playgrounds. Moms bring lunch and kids take a bite, play and come back for more bites. Thin trees by playgrounds so the grass grounds and the ground drys out better. Need open space for the medichelicopter.  Please review National Park standards. Please consult with an outside certified Park Planner for an objective opinion.  This park is unique in our area in that all homes surrounding the park look directly at the park. We love having a view of the green spaces and are a bit nervous about the park becoming overbuilt. Can we just leave it as it is and use our money to fix drainage, clean it up (trees, some grading), and maintain the beauty and peacefulness of the area?  This basically reconfigured what was existing to add a retention pond. Keeping mixed use field in the middle of the outfields seems to make more sense. These ball fields (at least one of them) don’t need large outfields, as these are for young players.  Pet waste and pets off leash are a big problem at this park. I recommend signage.  The parking lot looks like a legitimate safety hazard. It needs to be able to service many families with young children coming and going at the same time. With additional cars in the center, I fear someone is bound to get hit.  No on parking spaces.  Concerned still about the drainage, safety along Willow.  I believe B gives the park more options for using different ways. Concept B: What do you like about the design? Open-Ended Response  Nothing  Nothing 12  Nothing  Again, not much.  I don’t.  This is just crazy…who can even figure out what’s going on here? Cocking the field at an angle? This isn’t what the citizens want.  Not a good design  It’s better but too dense athletic activity  This is the best design  I love this design. Two ball fields and several overlapping multi-use fields. I think this offers the most flexibility for people to enjoy this park. It also seems to offer more parking than option A and has some nice landscaping.  Bigger parking lot. Many field options  Parking lot is easy to get in and out of, nice big storm water pond. Would love to see a rain garden  The multiuse fields are a better use of space? Parking is better situated on the one end. The restroom position is more accessible, easier to get to.  Parking and all of the field space.  Maximizing space, optimal parking concept  Easy parking Maximizes space  Parking appears to be more functional than concept A  Everything except the parking spaces  A large parking lot is essential. Two baseball fields are also critical. As mentioned before, OBO's 4–6-year-old age group has grown by over 20%, and there are already not enough fields to support the demand. If one of the fields is removed, it will make it very difficult for young kids to play locally in Orono — limiting access and possibly pushing games to other cities.  Parking and drainage designs. Most multi use option  Two ways to enter/exit parking lot, including access on Elm Ln; Restroom is located near where current port-a-potty is located and close to proposed parking  The parking area is nice  Larger parking lot with 2 entrance/exits. This would be really helpful for peak times. I also like that the 2 entrances are on different roads to help with traffic flow.  Larger parking lot and ability to keep 2 fields.  Two ball fields is critical. Multiple mixed use field opportunities. Parking is enhanced and kept out of the way.  The location of both ballfields, having the balls hit towards the center of the park. The flow and size of the parking lot. Having one entrance on Willow and one exit on the side street. The location of the drainage ditches.  Has two baseball fields  I like the angle of the fields, the flexibility of the middle part of the park, and the parking lot having entrances/exits on different roads  Multiple multi use fields while maintaining two baseball fields. Looks like larger parking lot.  Seems to maximize the space for the most uses  I like the variety for multi use fields.  I like the big multi use field, the parking and the 2 ball fields  The multi use fields! Better than the field. 13  Lots of field options  Again storm water pond addresses long standing drainage issues. Two baseball fields that look appropriate for 10u players. There is a strong need for this type of field space.  This seems to be the design that is the least disruptive to the park's current design IF the field at the corner of Elm and Hackberry could be turned so home plate is next to the parking lot area. The neighbors that attended the open house agree with that as well. Also having the restrooms on Willow will be more convenient for utility workers and locals who use the current Biffy on a regular basis.  The large green space is maintained. The large pond at the entrance along Willow, the trees lining Willow. The ball infield locations on opposite ends will provide space for spectators without feeling cramped. The parking lot looks easy to enter and exit during busy peak game times. Playground and basketball is away from parking lot and moving vehicles.  Extra shade  The line of trees along the main road, the ability to fit more fields  Storm water drainage Concept B: What do you dislike about the design? Open-Ended Response  Nothing  Nothing  Not that much. Best design out of the 3 by a landslide.  The whole layout is no goid  Too busy  Seems complicated  To congested  Feels super busy. I don’t like the water right behind where parents would likely sit and constantly have to be keeping an eye on younger children-better when the water is in the outfield. Also balls would be coming towards the playground area then too.  The field design appears confusing and is not a good layout  Doesn’t flow well and, again, trying to pack too much into too little space.  Ball fields and multi use can't be used at the same time  Soccer field seems a bit strange being diagonal  Appears unrealistic given the slope. It's a lot of fill or retaining wall to make those center fields playable.  Seems harder to schedule multiple events, but I'm not sure how the seasons align so that may not be an issue.  Why take away both ball fields for soccer? Soccer and baseball can happen simultaneously in option A  I think the mixed use field space is going to be challenging to realize with the existing grade. There will likely need to be retaining walls adding cost.  Massive amount of grading cut/fill will be required. SE dugout will encourage kids messing with the pond.  parking is taking up too much green space  Parking spaces are not a good idea. Keep our green spaces and find a better solution.  Parking looks to be safer, large fields with plenty of room.  Parking is off to one side. 14  I think this parking lot might have a more challenging flow - is it one way in and one way out?  So you are putting a parking lot in the corner where three new residences will be built across the street? What is the problem with leaving the park layout the way it is?  The paving for the parking lot. Could it be gravel to look more natural? Also, same issue with the bleachers.  Baseball fields oriented away from parking lot. More people will park on the road.  Parents will park as close as they can to a field of play. Need picnic area by playground so kids can eat and play.  Spectators are along the street Parking lot entrance off of Elm  The baseball field seems very close to the playground in this scenario. Also, the sidewalks/walking paths are only on the perimeter  Parking lot not centrally located but not a huge Deal. Feels like bathroom is furthest away from everything but again not a dealbreaker  Bathroom not near playground Parking on side streets  Location of restrooms. Need to be near play area Too many multi use ideas will be a mess with lines. Not clear where bikes go  Not my favorite spot for the restrooms, but doable.  The bathrooms are not close to the key activity areas.  Line more trees along Elm, Maple, and Hackberry. Add trees around the basketball court and along the west side of the parking lot, and the restroom.  No walking paths.  Again, I don’t like the pond. Dangerous for little kids and can attract more mosquitoes  I’m concerned about the lack of space for spectators to sit near the field along Willow Drive. With how the fields are laid out, there doesn’t seem to be enough room for families to comfortably watch games. The bathroom near Willow is also attracting a lot of unrelated drive-by traffic — people stop to use the bathroom or throw away trash. While it’s a park, it’s become busier than intended, and people often end up sitting or parking in ways that block access to walk along the road. Most importantly, there’s a major safety issue with Willow Drive itself. The current speed limit, combined with the lack of a designated walking path, creates a serious hazard for pedestrians — especially families with children. A sidewalk or walking path is badly needed. The massive stormwater pond could help, but also takes up a lot of space -would need to learn more about this. Concept B: Additional feedback Open-Ended Response  This is my first choice out of all of the plans.  Dislike.  Again, please refer to National Park and Recreation standards that state two t-ball fields with spectators need 4 acres of land. Hackberry is only 3.58 acres. There is too much there already re: amenities.  massive field size leaves no room for trees or shrubs. Leave the mature trees.  Same as Concept A: This park is unique in our area in that all homes surrounding the park look directly at the park. We love having a view of the green spaces and are a bit nervous about 15 the park becoming overbuilt. Can we just leave it as it is and use our money to fix drainage, clean it up (trees, some grading), and maintain the beauty and peacefulness of the area?  Activity and density need to be away from the homes. Where is a relaxing area and blanket space. Regrading is big bucks.  No hard spaces for cars. Slow the speed limit down on willow and have cars park on the east side of willow.  Please update the playground equipment. Is that a sidewalk around the perimeter? If so I think that’s a poor use of finances because no one is going to walk all the way around walking youth sports. There appears to be parking all the way around the park’s perimeter, is that accurate?  Would LOVE to see additional benches near the existing playground. Currently it’s just tables, benches would enhance for parents.  Really hope you resurface the basketball court too.  Pet waste and pets off leash are a big problem at this park. I recommend signage.  what about a set or two of bleachers.  If the fields are level, this makes the most sense for sports teams. Sledding Hill is wishfully think with this design  Is the stormwater pond required? Would seem to be an excellent mosquito breeding area and would require additional maintenance Concept C: What do you like about the design? Open-Ended Response  Nothing  Zippo .. need T ball fields  Not much, sorry. Especially the parking lot going almost all the way to Hackberry Hill  Wow this is insulting. The Citizens already rejected this plan. Why is it even included in this survey?  No — I do not support the plan for just one field. There is far too much parking proposed for only one field. Orono Baseball is incredibly important to this community. Keeping two fields is essential. Without two fields, the large parking lot becomes unnecessary and a waste of valuable space - people just squatting. This park should prioritize space for sports and activities — not excess parking. We have seen the OBO numbers go up 20%! We need the fields. This area is meant to serve our kids and families. Let’s keep it focused on what matters.  This is perfect! It is the right blend of open space and mixed use to parking.  Well designed. Central parking.  I like this design best. It seems balanced and best use of space for flexibility with good flow. Parking is centralized and accessible  Love the simplicity of this design! 2 clean and separate sports areas. Larger parking lot is a win!  Parking, 2 separate fields for field sports and baseball/softball. Perfect design  Best parking. Still get a lot of things. Yes, cutting out one baseball field, but this feels spacious and not too chaotic while still meeting needs.  Lots of parking! 16  Seems like most parking  Best parking option. Bathroom in central location  Parking lot in middle of park. Encouraging parking in the lot more than on the road.  Everything except the parking spaces.  This offers a lot of parking, but I’m afraid it does it at the expense or removing playing fields.  Favorite design of the 3. Best parking and use of fields seems better for multiple sports at one time.  Easiest and safest, multi sports on the same night  Good separation of multi use and ball field. Could successfully play multi games. Nice restroom location. Parking off main road  Mix use design. Playground and open space available which is consistent with mix use parks in the area  Preferred Design Good separation between playing fields Efficient parking Good restroom location Eliminates need for perimeter sidewalk and allows for trees around periphery Spectators don’t have to stand along a street  This is my vote! I like that the baseball field is clearly distinguished from the multi use field.  Clean design, parking spots look maximized and the shelter area off the park and the fields is nice.  Less congested  Less crowded with one ballfield. Having the open field on the north end.  Nice and tidy….dont need 2 baseball fields so C is best i think.  The soccer leaves the baseball alone.  Large grass infield baseball diamond can be used by older players. If not grass infield, then nothing positive.  The shelter and bathrooms are near the playground.  Bathroom near playground More parking with access to all fields  Lots of centrally located parking and bathroom. Big soccer field  Restroom proximity to basketball and infield. All the trees around the whole park is great for shade, buffer, and water drainage. The large multiuse field looks good for soccer, flag football, lacrosse, fairs or community events, fitness classes or bootcamps, summer camps.  Local of restroom  I like the sidewalks/walking paths throughout the park and where the restrooms and shelter are located. The parking lot separating the field areas is also nice. Concept C: What do you dislike about the design? Open-Ended Response  Nothing. Great design  Nothing.  Nothing  All the things  Doesn’t feel like it’s making the most use out of the space  My least favorite of the three designs. Too much paved parking.  I don’t like that you have to pass through a parking lot to get from one field to the other. 17  The parking lot down the middle of the park. Location of the south ballfield, the balls will be hit towards Willow.  Parking lot feels like it takes up so much more of the park - lots of nonporous space. Cuts the park in half.  massive field and massive parking leave no room for trees and shrubs; parking splits the park in half  I do not like the parking or fields.  Don't get rid of green space for vehicles. Find a better solution.  Waste way to much natural/green space with parking. Only has 2 bball fields. Only has one parking entrance/exits, which will be a disaster on Willow  Parking lot should have a second entrance on the opposite end to help with traffic flow. Looks like it would get very congested with one entrance/exit.  Parking lot in middle of park raises new safety concerns with park visitors needing to traverse the parking lot to get to the restroom from the multi-use field; only one baseball field  Having to cross parking lot to use other half.  Could cars also exit from the other side of the field? Hackberry Hill is a less busy street than Willow.  To big of parking lot, takes away from park use.  The parking lot, while spacious, it could have entrance/exit from hackberry on the west.  Only 1 ballfield and parking between the fields  Uses a large part of grass for parking lot, lose a baseball field  Orono does not need another softball filed and this is not what the Citizens wanted. They need TWO t-ball fields for the league.  Kicks little kicks out, invites older kids and possible weekend games. It’s not what this land/ neighbors can support or want. T ball needs more fields not soccer and softball  Only one ball field and the restrooms/shelter too close to neighbors' homes. There is a concern about late night gatherings after park hours (teens).  Loss of second ball field. Parking eats a ton of space.  Only one baseball field.  No — I do not support the plan for just one field. There is far too much parking proposed for only one field. Orono Baseball is incredibly important to this community. Keeping two fields is essential. Without two fields, the large parking lot becomes unnecessary and a waste of valuable space - people just squatting. This park should prioritize space for sports and activities — not excess parking. We have seen the OBO numbers go up 20%! We need the fields.  Limits number of teams for all sports looking to use the space. So there's a part of me that dislikes that is is the easiest.  Would be hard to lose a baseball field! Also not a fan of the storm water pond. If this is a requirement for run off water, what will the city do to block it off from young kids and control mosquitoes?  Losing a baseball field feels like a non starter  It had less playing fields.  Is there only one multiuse area?  The outfield needs a fence to keep balls out of swamp area and off willow.  Part of the sledding hill is blocked by ball field/benches  Make sure sledding lane is free of obstacles 18 Concept C: Additional feedback Open-Ended Response  Stop wasting Citizens time trying confuse them with a rerun of something they already said no to. This is disrespectful.  Do not like this plan, 3rd choice.  Worst design of the 3.  A is the best. This is 2nd best option. And option b just plain sucks.  I like this one  This is the winner  In my opinion, this is the only design that makes sense.  Please upgrade the playground. Orono needs better playgrounds/structures/materials.  Any proposed plans to upgrade the playground?  Would LOVE to see additional benches near the existing playground. Currently it’s just tables, benches would enhance for parents.  It would be nice to have the basketball court turned into a pickleball court since there are hardly any people playing basketball. It's currently a wasted space.  A walking path around the park would be nice.  Don't put in a parking lot for cars. Never get rid of the green space or trees for parking.  Leave the mature trees and plant more around the fields. Kids need shade when at sporting events.  And again: This park is unique in our area in that all homes surrounding the park look directly at the park. We love having a view of the green spaces and are a bit nervous about the park becoming overbuilt. Can we just leave it as it is and use our money to fix drainage, clean it up (trees, some grading), and maintain the beauty and peacefulness of the area?  Way is the parking lot not in/out on each end, why can’t someone enter/exit from hackberry. How popular is baseball needing two fields in the other designs vs one field here plus a mult use field. The water run off is farther from parents watching children play.  If a second field could be added to corner of mixed use area, this could be an ok concept.  field use doesn't seem maximized but I'm not sure on demand of such spaces so up to city  Pet waste and pets off leash are a big problem at this park. I recommend signage.  Develop a plan with density and play away from the homes. Keep the park for young and challenged. Need relax area., blanket space, bench vs bleachers. Pull the T ball diamonds to the west, put parking with enter on Elm, and exit Maple and curbing on Willow edge. Bathroom on Willow side for contractors, UPS, Garbage drivers etc. Open culver under Willow and put excess water in the swamp. Your plans put high density with people and cars and activity nights. Not all parks need heavy activity. That does not make it a park. Define park and figure out what it should be for density. Put what you don’t have elsewhere that attracts low density in people and cars. Keep in mind parent habits and wants and the impact on surrounding areas. We have Willow which is a Responder route, narrow neighborhood road and NO parking signs don’t work on activity nights. How about a quiet area to set and veg.  do not support this set up unless you have another field designated that is new for T-ball and Pitching Machine.  I believe we need at least 2 ball fields.  Should be easier plumbing for bathrooms based on old house location. 19  Major issues This is a regional park but no clear sidewalks to access it from neighborhoods and nearby Long Lake supportive businesses. Also kids need safer walkways from the Orono schools. Extend a safe sidewalk from sidewalk that is already part way from the area with gas station, McDonalds and now new ice cream shop. Clearly identify and protect a bike trail. Also the regional park will have greater attendance and the speed limit should be 20mph with a warning light. It now changes to 40 mph which says wow speed up you are passing a park. Do not wait until an accident happens to make connecting sidewalks ,bike trails, and speed limit changes. A crosswalk maybe . Safety should be the number one priority .  We would also support a reduced speed limit near the park. We would also love to see a bike path/sidewalk on Willow for kids to safely ride bikes to the park!  It would be wonderful to add a splash pad in the area where the former house used to be as water is already piped in. That area would also be close to the playground and restrooms in this plan. The parking lot could be reduced by a small amount to accommodate a splash pad and there would still be plenty of parking for the park. 20 Orono, Minnesota Executive Summary December 2023 HACKBERRY PARK MASTER PLAN Process In April 2023, the City of Orono enlisted the services of Bolton & Menk to help guide the City through a formal master planning process of Hackberry Park. The master planning process was a coordinated effort between the Orono Park Commission, City staff, and Hackberry Park’s neighborhood residents. From April through August a series of public listening sessions were held by City staff to inform the design and programming of the park. Updates and draft concepts were shared with the Hackberry Park sub-committee and the larger Park Commission. Orono City Council approved staff’s recommendation to move into a preliminary design phase on Monday, August 28, 2023. The item was approved in a 4-1 vote. Feedback at the final listening session on August 30th did not direct additional changes to the draft design, allowing the plan to be finalized. Master plan recommendations are documented in the pages that follow. Existing features: Hackberry Park is a 3 acre neighborhood park located at the northwest corner of Willow Drive North and Maple Lane. The block containing the existing park also includes one single-family home. This house was purchased by the City of Orono in 2016 using life estate and the City of Orono assumed ownership of the property when it was vacated in December 2022. The removal of the house allows Orono to design a master plan for Hackberry Park that better meets meets the needs of the commmnity. The main existing features include the following: Overview • Ball fields • Basketball court • Benches • Bike Racks • Chemical toilets • Open space • Picnic tables • Open space • Playground equipment • Mature Trees • Park sign • Resident mailboxes Resident Input Orono City Staff & Council Approval April 4: Master Plan design services begin July 20: City staff provided plan update to Hackberry Park sub-committee August 7: Draft concept shared with Park Commission August 28: Concept approved by City Council August 30: Listening Session #3 Master Plan Complete April 29: Listening Session #1 May 9: Listening Session #2 21 2 3Hackberry Park Master Plan: Executive Summary Arriving at the Proposed Improvements Based on a variety of factors (existing grades, drainage patterns, residential context, overall park size, access, surrounding environment, public input, and City of Orono needs) a number of programming and site layout changes have been proposed. This design was informed by three listening sessions with neighborhood residents and presentations to the Hackberry Park Sub-Committee, Park Commission, and Orono City Council. The site inventory graphic on the following page identifies existing utilities, adjacent streets, and Hackberry Park’s boundary. The house shown in the aerial has been purchased by the City of Orono to be demolished and converted to park improvements. The lists below summarize the discussions and input received at public listening sessions as well as direction from City staff. The ordering of items does not necessarily reflect their important or emphasis. Summary of Design Input Existing Conditions TAGNUMBER TAGNUMBER ll l l l >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>TAGNUMBER TAGNUMBER TAGNUMBER TAGNUMBER TAGNUMBER TAGNUMBER TAGNUMBER TAGNUMBER TAGNUMBER TAGNUMBER TAGNUMBER TAGNUMBER TAGNUMBER TAGNUMBER TAGNUMBER TAGNUMBER TAGNUMBER >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> >> >> >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>\\goldenvalley4\h\ORNO\0T6130918\CAD\C3D\130918_Base Map_N1.dwg 5/17/2023 11:16:51 AMR Hackberry Park Master Plan City of Orono, MN Existing Conditions May 2023 PARCEL LINE, TYP. PARK BOUNDARY WILLOW DR NHACKBERRY HILLELM LN MAPLE LN WATER LINE, TYP. STORM LINE, TYP. SANITARY LINE, TYP. R FEETSCALE 0 30 60 HORZ. Existing Issues • Parking - Backing out on Willow Dr does not feel safe - Street parking can limit emergency vehicles access and access to existing mailboxes • Water Drainage - Park is built in a wet area - Drain tile is clogged • Vehicle Speed - Cars speeding on Willow Dr Desired Improvements • Ash tree replacement planning • Programming for families • Restroom/small shelter area with restrooms near play equipment • Drinking fountain • Keep (but improve) south ballfield • Remove north ballfield • Keep sledding hill (adjacent to playground) • Soccer/multi-sport field • Coniferous plants along Willow Dr to screen sound • Additional seating throughout park • Keep mailboxes on the park side • Signage on the rules of the park (i.e. leashed dogs, motorized vehicles, closed at 10pm) • Dedication plaque to the Gleason Family • Remove broken well by skating rink • Level skating rink area Improvements Not Desired for Hackberry Park • Sand volleyball • Charcoal grills • Field lighting • Curbs on roads • Pickleball courts Existing playground (image from City of Orono) Existing park sign (image from homes.com) 303000 6060 NN 22 4 5Hackberry Park Master Plan: Executive Summary Master Plan 50 STANDARD PARKING SPOTS 3 ADA PARKING SPOTS 6’ SIDEWALK, TYP. DROP-OFF AREA SHELTER DUGOUTS BLEACHERS PARK BOUNDARY 12’ CHAINLINK FENCE, TYP. OVERFLOW PARKING OVERFLOW PARKING SOFTBALL / TEE-BALL FIELD MULTI-USE FIELD (180’ X 300’) EXISTING BASKETBALL COURT EXISTING PLAYGROUND ELM LN MAPLE LN WILLOW DR NHACKBERRY HILLSTORMWATER POND PROPOSED TREE, TYP. LEGEND Coniferous Tree Deciduous Tree Deciduous Tree - Existing * Some proposed deciduous trees represent the replacement of existing ash trees Proposed Improvements Multi-Use Field The open field on roughly the north half of the site is proposed as an open playfield suitable for soccer, foot races, or a myriad of other activities. A 12’ fence is proposed at both the east and west ends of the field. Softball / Tee-Ball Field It is proposed that the two existing ballfields be consolidated into one, complete with dugouts and spectator bleachers. The softball / tee-ball field is easily accessible from the parking lot and shelter. Dugouts & Bleachers Dugouts and bleachers are proposed as part of the softball / tee-ball field in the park’s southeastern quadrant for the safetey and comfort of both players and spectators. Sidewalks Concrete or bituminous walks of a minimum 6’ width will connect the parking lot, shelter, existing basketball court, existing playground, softball/tee-ball dugouts and bleachers, and park entrance on Hackberry Hill. Sidewalks are of lower priority to connect the multi-use field, softball/tee-ball field, stormwater ponds, and the two overflow parking areas; however, additional walk connections could be added in later phases. Tree Replacement / Landscape Plan Many of the existing trees within the park are nearing maturity or susceptible to potential disease. This includes many ash trees susceptible to Emerald Ash Borer. Additional trees should be planted throughout the park to provide future shade. A diverse landscape plan should be used for better resiliency against disease and for different rates of growth to ensure a healthy and continuous tree canopy for future generations. Shelter / Restroom Building The addition of a small, centrally-located shelter is recommended to house restrooms, a drinking fountain, and community gathering space. The facility would provide park users an improved toilet facility, access to drinking water, and a warming area for winter activities. Proposed sidewalks, a crosswalk, a parking lot drop-off area, and surrounding hardscape area make the shelter easy to access by people enjoying all areas of the park. Irrigation Irrigation is proposed for the 2 playing fields to maintain a useable playing surface. Picnic Tables Replacing the existing picnic tables with a more aesthetically pleasing yet vandalism resistant table within the park is recommended. Explore providing a solid concrete picnic table, including at least one that is ADA acciessible. Maintenance and vandalism should be considerations when selecting picnic tables. Bituminous Parking Lot An asphalt parking lot with approximately 60 standard parking stalls and 3 ADA stalls is proposed in the middle of the site to serve parking needs for all of Hackberry Park. The lot is to include a drop-off area near the shelter for park users that need or prefer to travel only short distances as pedestrians. Stormwater Pond In the southeast corner of the site, a stormwater pond is recommended to improve erosion control, stormwater management, and sustainability. The basin will receive roadway runoff from Willow Dr N and could be sized appropriately to treat the stormwater. The native plantings in the rain garden will also support pollinators by providing important habitat and food sources. Bike Racks The installation of bike racks is recommended to allow park users to park bicycles near the restroom facility at Hackberry Park. The addition of bike racks encourages the use of non-motorized transportation and allows the park to serve as a rest stop for cyclist on longer rides. Park Sign The existing park sign can be replaced to give additional information about the park. Existing Basketball Court The existing basketball court shall be utilized as it was previously, but connected to the pedestrian circulation network via walks. Existing Playground The existing playground shall be utilized as it was previously, but connected to the pedestrian circulation network via walks. Existing Resident Mailboxes Mailboxes in the footprint of overflow parking or other enhancements will be relocated as close to the residence which they serve as possibble. Additional mailboxes may be moved as needed to accomodate mail truck operations. 303000 6060 NN 23 6 Appendix IV: Hackberry Park Master Plan Cost Estimate Hackberry Park Master Plan Improvements November 6, 2023 PRELIMINARY ESTIMATED COSTS Item Item Description Unit Est. Qty Notes Unit Cost Total Cost 1 Mobilization LS 1 approximately 8% of construction cost $55,000 $55,000 2 Clearing & Grubbing LS 1 coordinate specific trees with city staff $10,000 $10,000 3 Site Grading LS 1 grading does not include existing basketball court and playground area $25,000 $25,000 4 Storm Sewer/Raingarden Pond System LS 1 intakes, piping, soil medium and plant material $50,000 $50,000 5 Parking Lot LS 1 assume bit. pavement with concrete curb & gutter $90,000 $90,000 6 4" Concrete Walk LS 1 shelter plaza pavement & connecting walkways $40,000 $40,000 7 Shelter Building (approximately 15'x20')LS 1 assume small enclosed maintenance building w/attached open shelter $100,000 $100,000 8 Multi-Use Field (180'x300')LS 1 no lighting $200,000 $200,000 9 12' Chainlink Fencing @ east & west end of soccer field LF 320 additonal fencing may be required $150 $48,000 10 Softball/Tee-ball Field LS 1 relocate/reuse infield surfacing, new backstop and baseline fencing $125,000 $125,000 11 Dugout EA 2 approximately 10' x 20' overhead structure w/chainlink sides $25,000 $50,000 12 Bleacher EA 1 assume four tiered bleacher $5,000 $5,000 13 Stormwater Pond LS 1 includes grading, soil, mulch and plant material $20,000 $20,000 14 Landscaping LS 1 includes grading, soil, mulch and plant material $10,000 $10,000 15 Irrigation LS 1 two fields $100,000 $100,000 16 Drinking Fountain LS 1 will need to be fed by the well as not on municipal water $8,000 $8,000 17 Field Equipment (both fields)LS 1 goals, nets, bases, signs, misc.$30,000 $30,000 18 Bike Rack EA 3 match existing city standard $1,800 $5,400 Subtotal $971,400 Contingency (15%)$145,710 Preliminary Total $1,117,110 24