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HomeMy WebLinkAbout8.a. Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan, 10-03-PLN�ROSEMOUNT EXECUTIVE SUMMARY CITY COUNCIL City Council Special Meeting: November 1, 2010 AGENDA ITEM: 10- 03 -PLN: Pedestrian and Bicycle AGENDA SECTION: Master Plan. Old Business PREPARED BY: Kim Lindquist, Community Development Director AGENDA NO. 9.a- ATTACHMENTS: Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan dated October 27, 2010; August 11, City Council Executive Summary and Minutes; Parks Commission Minutes dated March 29, 2010, April 26, 2010, APPROVED BY: May 24, 2010, June 28, 2010, and September 27, 2010; Planning Commission Minutes dated August 24, 2010 DQ RECOMMENDED ACTION: Motion to Adopt Attached Resolution Accepting the Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan dated October 28, 2010. BACKGROUND At the end of 2009, the City was awarded a $25,000 grant to develop a Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan. Funding for this project was provided by a grant from the Minnesota State Health Improvement Program (SHIP) through the Dakota County Active Living Partnership and the Dakota County Public Health Department. In January of 2010, the City Council reviewed this award and directed staff to solicit consultant services to complete the plan. The Plan has been reviewed by the Planning Commission, Parks Commission and City Council at the August 11, 2010 work session. The primary areas of discussion at the Council meeting related to financing of individual Plan components and estimated costs. Since that time there have been additions to the Plan in the appendix which outlines potential funding sources and also gives a range of potential costs associated with particular improvements. Language has been added to clarify the intention of the Plan, that it is a framework for bicycle and pedestrian improvements in the community. Acceptance of the Plan is not intended to commit the City to full implementation of the noted policy and infrastructure recommendations. The Parks Commission in their motion of support requested the City formalize within the zoning ordinance that developers provide 5' sidewalks on both sides of all residential streets unless found to be unnecessary by staff. This recommendation was from the previous Plan reviewed by the City Council. Internally, staff has some reservations about unilaterally requiring two sidewalks on all local streets without a more substantive discussion with the Council. There are cost, right of way and maintenance issues which should be vetted with the Council prior to formalizing the recommendation and amending the ordinance. Staff does support one sidewalk on local streets to allow pedestrians to walk outside of the vehicle travelway. The following language has been added to the Plan addressing this issue: Encourage sidewalks along with new development and redevelopment. Current requirements for sidewalks on local streets are determined on an individual project basis. The City could consider formalizing existing ordinances to require developers to provide a 5' sidewalk, separated by a planted boulevard, on one or both sides of local streets unless they are found to be unnecessary by City staff, to ensure a consistent and complete sidewalk network. Two pedestrian sidewalks would be more appropriate for residential and neighborhood collectors which may or may not be formally designated as collectors on the City's functional classification system. SUMMARY Overall, the Rosemount Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan seeks to build on existing infrastructure to create a community where choosing to walk or bike is a safe, convenient and enjoyable recreation and transportation option for all users. The Plan begins with an assessment of Rosemount's existing conditions and needs. It then establishes the Walk -Bike Framework to identify routes and specific treatments to create a convenient and complete bike /walk network. A series of best practices are recommended to make walking and biking safer, convenient and more enjoyable. To move the plan to reality, a series of implementation strategies are outlined and potential funding sources identified. Staff wants to caution the Council that the Plan cannot function as a stand -alone document and implementation must be tempered to recognize all community priorities. Presently the lack of financial resources makes implementation of the treatments recommended unattainable. Currently, the City operating budget has a $125,000 line item for trails and sidewalks. Several years ago, staff devised a trail and sidewalk map that would patch disconnected trails and install sidewalks where lacking. It is estimated that those projects alone (only the developed area of the community) would cost approximately $2 million. Installation of these identified sidewalk and trail projects has occurred as funding and opportunities exist. For example, this year's pavement management project included sidewalk segments delineated in that Plan. Staff estimates that implementation of the Plan would require a capital investment of approximately $6.5 million. Many of the identified projects are ripe for partnerships with the County or State or have the ability to be eligible for grant funding. Other enhancements may occur when opportunities arise due to reconstruction or redevelopment in the area. Much of the Plan elements would be constructed as new development occurs in the eastern portion of the community. It is unclear if it is a reasonable goal to try and retrofit the already developed portion of the community to implement suggested Plan elements. Existing development patterns in built neighborhoods hampers the ability to easily install some desired bike and pedestrian facilities. The financial cost and the impact on individual properties may not warrant implementation. As noted in the Plan, further review and study is required for many Plan aspects and city staff echoes that sentiment. Ultimately, full implementation of the Plan currently before the Council for acceptance would increase the capital infrastructure for pedestrian and bicycle amenities. It is clear that future prioritization will need to occur within the suggested projects and as related to other City goals. As is often the case with subject specific plans, the Plan recommends the best practices for bicycle and pedestrian use, which could negatively affect other community priorities such as convenient on -street parking, unimpeded vehicular movement, and reducing hard surfacing. The Plan has a place in the City's development toolbox as additional emphasis on bike and pedestrian circulation should occur during the subdivision design and review process. This change in emphasis is consistent with the evolution of urban planning issues such as tree preservation, performance zoning, reductions in hard surface, and complete streets. Staff looks forward to future conversations with the Planning Commission and City Council to ascertain what the high priority features of the Plan are. K CONCLUSION Staff believes the Plan achieves the goals set out in the RFP for the project and is consistent with previous staff direction. Further discussions and considerations of priorities are recommended prior to implementation of large -scale Plan components to ensure implementation does not conflict with other community goals and policies. Further, full implementation is unreasonable given the resources that would be needed. Rather, staff will work to prioritize projects as resources and opportunities arise. RECOMMENDATION Motion to approve resolution accepting the Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan dated October 28, 2010. 3 CITY OF ROSEMOUNT DAKOTA COUNTY, MINNESOTA RESOLUTION 2010 - A RESOLUTION ACCEPTING THE PEDESTRIAN AND BICYCLE MASTER PLAN DATED OCTOBER 28, 2010 WHEREAS, the City of Rosemount applied for and received a grant in December, 2009, in the amount of $25,000 from the Minnesota State Health Improvement Program (SHIP) through the Dakota County Active Living Partnership and the Dakota County Public Health Department to develop a pedestrian and bicycle master plan to support the community's active living vision; and WHEREAS, the City of Rosemount entered into a contract with Hoisington Koegler Group, Inc. (HKGi) on February 23, 2010, for preparation of a pedestrian and bicycle master plan; and WHEREAS, on March 31, 2010, the City of Rosemount held a stakeholders meeting to gather information on the walking and bicycling challenges within and around the City of Rosemount; and WHEREAS, on April 7, 2010, the City of Rosemount held a public open house to gather public comments on existing sidewalk and trail system, facilities and destinations; and WHEREAS, on June 2, 2010, the City of Rosemount held a second public open house to present the draft plan for review and comment; and WHEREAS, the Rosemount Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan seeks to build on existing infrastructure to create a community where choosing to walk or bike is a safe, convenient and enjoyable recreation and transportation option for all users; and WHEREAS, on August 11, 2010, the City of Rosemount City Council reviewed the draft plan at a work session; and WHEREAS, on August 24, 2010, the City of Rosemount Planning Commission reviewed the draft plan and agreed with the comments made by the City Council; and WHEREAS, on April 26, 2010 and May 24, 2010, June 28, 2010, and September 27, 2010 the City of Rosemount Parks Commission reviewed a draft plan as prepared by HKGi recommending adoption of the Plan at their September meeting; and WHEREAS, HKGi prepared a revised draft dated October 28, 2010, based on the comments and suggestions made by the City Council; and WHEREAS, on November 1, 2010, the City of Rosemount City Council reviewed the Rosemount Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan dated October 28, 2010. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, the Council of the City of Rosemount hereby accepts the Rosemount Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan dated October 28, 2010. RESOLUTION 2010- NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, the Plan will serve as a framework for further development of bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure within the community which will be implemented as deemed appropriate recognizing fiscal constraints. ADOPTED this 1St day of November, 2010, by the City Council of the City of Rosemount. ATTEST: Amy Domeier, City Clerk William H. Droste, Mayor 2 4ROSEMOUNTEXECUTIVE SUMMARY CITY COUNCIL City Council Work Session: Tentative Parks Commission Meeting: Tentative Planning Commission Meeting: Tentative City Council Meeting August 11, 2010 August 23, 2010 August 24, 2010 September 7, 2010 AGENDA ITEM: 10- 03 -PLN: Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan. AGENDA SECTION: A memo summarizing the draft Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan and requesting initial feedback. PREPARED BY: Jason Lindahl, AICP AGENDA NO. a.. Planner ATTACHMENTS: Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan APPROVED BY: dated August 2 2010 RECOMMENDED ACTION: Staff requests direction regarding the Draft Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan and proposed schedule for action. SUMMARY At the end of 2009, the City was awarded a $25,000 grant to develop a Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan. In January of 2010, the City Council reviewed this award and directed staff to solicit consultant services to complete the plan. Since then, staff has been working with Hoisington Koegler Group (HKGi to complete the attached draft plan. During the work session staff will present the draft plan, take questions and comments from the City Council, and outline a process for further review and action by the Council. The Rosemount Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan seeks to build on existing infrastructure to create a community where choosing to walk or bike is a safe, convenient and enjoyable recreation and transportation option for all users. The Plan begins with an assessment of Rosemount's existing conditions and needs. It then establishes the Walk -Bike Framework to identify routes and specific treatments for each route to create a convenient and complete bike /walk network. A series of best practices are recommended to make walking and biking safer, convenient and more enjoyable. To move the plan to reality, a series of implementation strategies are outlined and potential funding sources identified. BACKGROUND In the fall of 2006, City staff began working with the Dakota County Active Living Partnership to assess the active living conditions in Rosemount and suggest policy changes that would encourage increased physical activity in daily routines and improve the health of residents. The findings from that assessment served as the basis for the Active Living Section of Rosemount's Comprehensive Plan. One goal from this section of the Comprehensive Plan was to develop a pedestrian and bicycle master plan to support the community's active living vision. Funding for this project was provided by a grant from the Minnesota State Health Improvement Program (SHIP) through the Dakota County Active Living Partnership and the Dakota County Public Health Department. 4ROSEMOUNTEXECUTIVE SUMMARY CITY COUNCIL City Council Work Session: Tentative Parks Commission Meeting: Tentative Planning Commission Meeting: Tentative City Council Meeting August 11, 2010 August 23, 2010 August 24, 2010 September 7, 2010 AGENDA ITEM: 10- 03 -PLN: Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan. AGENDA SECTION: A memo summarizing the draft Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan and O L'Gl.SSf ah.. requesting requesfing initial feedback. PREPARED BY: Jason Lindahl, AICP AGENDA NO. � a.. Planner ATTACHMENTS: Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan APPROVED BY• ' dated August 2, 2010 RECOMMENDED ACTION: Staff requests direction regarding the Draft Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan and proposed schedule for action. SUMMARY At the end of 2009, the City was awarded a $25,000 grant to develop a Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan. In January of 2010, the City Council reviewed this award and directed staff to solicit consultant services to complete the plan. Since then, staff has been working with Hoisington Koegler Group (HKG1) to complete the attached draft plan. During the work session staff will present the draft plan, take questions and comments from the City Council, and outline a process for further review and action by the Council. The Rosemount Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan seeks to build on existing infrastructure to create a community where choosing to walk or bike is a safe, convenient and enjoyable recreation and transportation option for all users. The Plan begins with an assessment of Rosemount's existing conditions and needs. It then establishes the Walk -Bike Framework to identify routes and specific treatments for each route to create a convenient and complete bike /walk network. A series of best practices are recommended to make walking and biking safer, convenient and more enjoyable. To move the plan to reality, a series of implementation strategies are outlined and potential funding sources identified. BACKGROUND In the fall of 2006, City staff began working with the Dakota County Active laving Partnership to assess the active living conditions in Rosemount and suggest policy changes that would encourage increased physical activity in daily routines and improve the health of residents. The findings from that assessment served as the basis for the Active Living Section of Rosemount's Comprehensive Plan. One goal from this section of the Comprehensive Plan was to develop a pedestrian and bicycle master plan to support the community's active living vision. Funding for this project was provided by a grant from the Minnesota State Health Improvement Program (SHIP) through the Dakota County Active Living Partnership and the Dakota County Public Health Department. C0' k ROSEMOUNT CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION PROCEEDINGS AUGUST 11, 2010 CALL TO ORDER Pursuant to due call and notice thereof a regular work session of the Rosemount City Council was held on Wednesday, August 11, 2010 at 6:33 p.m. in the Conference Room at City Hall, 2875 145,` Street West, Rosemount, Minnesota. Mayor Droste called the meeting to order with Council Members Bills, Weisensel, Shoe - Corrigan and DeBettigaies attending. Staff present included City Administrator Johnson, Director of Parks and Recreation Schultz, Community Development Director Lindquist, Project Engineer Olson, Planner Lindahl, Director of Public Works /City Engineer Brotzler, City Clerk Domeier, Finance Director May, Chief of Police Kalstabakken and Senior Planner Zweber. City Administrator Johnson switched the order of the agenda to discuss item 2.C. before 2.B. DISCUSSION 2.A.10- 03 -PLN: Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan Planner Lindahl provided a summary and presentation of the information provided within the draft Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan. Community Development Director Lindquist added that the plan is still considered a draft and changes will be proposed prior to the draft going to City Council for consideration. Staff did not support creating a new position or commission as recommended in the plan. Ms. Lindquist also provided more information on the funding sources. Council Member Shoe - Corrigan questioned if the plan would be incorporated into the trail and streets plans as new projects develop. Ms. Lindquist stated the new plan will provide options and ideas along with prioritization for planning. Discussion was held regarding review by the Parks and Planning Commissions. Director of Public Works /City Engineer Brotzler viewed that the full implementation of the plan for street projects would be the consideration of the City CounciL Further discussion was held regarding the scope, schedule and budget. Ms. Lindquist explained the time frame of review for moving forward and future City Council consideration. Council Member Weisensel stated he would not support the plan at a future meeting if budgetary information was not included. 2.C. Pavement Management Program Update Director of Public Works /City Engineer Brotzler provided a detailed presentation on the Pavement Management Program. Discussion was held regarding the network OCI rating and the schedules for seal coating and overlays of streets. Further discussion was held regarding notices to property owners on future reconstruction projects. It was also suggested that staff notify residents who apply for building permits of reconstruction projects proposed for their streets and /or driveways. 2.B. 2011 Budget City Administrator Johnson provided a summary of the information provided in the staff report. Discussion points included the Itasca Group, insurance rates, vandalism, SKB revenues, structural issues at the Community Center and the demolition of the Genz Ryan buildings. PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION Regular Meeting Minutes SEPTEMBER 27, 2010 APPROVED Members Present: Maureen Bartz, Jason Eisold, Mike Eliason, Barb Farrell Members Absent: Kevin Strayton Staff Present: Dan Schultz, Director of Parks and Recreation and Sonja Honl, Recording Secretary Student Volunteer: Stephen Sawyer Others Present: None 1. CALL TO ORDER: Eliason called the meeting to order at 7:05 p.m. 2. ADDITIONS TO THE AGENDA: None 3. APPROVAL OF THE AUGUST 23, 2010 MEETING MINUTES: MOTION by Farrell to approve the minutes of the August 23, 2010 meeting. SECOND by Eisold. Ayes: 4 Nays: 0 Motion passed. 4. AUDIENCE INPUT: None 5. DISCUSSION (Response to Audience Input): None 6. OLD BUSINESS: a. Pedestrian Bicycle Master Plan — Schultz reviewed the final draft of the plan. Tom Schuster, Parks Supervisor, was on the Pedestrian Bicycle Master Plan committee and was in attendance to answer questions from the Commission. Schultz asked the Commission for any additional comments they might have. Farrell asked how we ensure that a subdivision ordinance (page 59, fourth bullet item and page 69, under section titled "Encourage sidewalks along with new development & redevelopment) is adopted that would require five foot sidewalks on both sides of the street for new developments. If such a subdivision ordinance was adopted by the City, it would be in place so developers would know up front that sidewalks would be required for new developments. Per Schultz, we can add this to a recommendation accepting the pedestrian bicycle master plan. Farrell also mentioned seeing people walking in the grass along Hwy 3 in front of the Community Center, and children trying to cross Hwy 3 on bicycles, and the need for a trail connection along the stretch of road between Connemara Trail and 145th Street. A trail connection here would allow easy, safe access for people to walk or bike to the downtown area. She pointed out that the trail connections shown on the map on page 34 of the plan are not along Hwy 3. Schultz explained that there is a state right -of -way restriction along Hwy 3, a steep slope, and also a pond on the south side of the Community Center that would make it difficult to build a trail there. Options could be to build a trail along the west side of the Community Center that would run behind the building or along the front of the Community Center. Signage could be put in place to direct bikers /walkers to these trail connections. Bartz suggested running a trail along the last row of stalls in the Community Center parking lot. Eisold wanted to reiterate that the pedestrian bicycle master plan is a tool to be used as a resource, but it is not the answer to all questions that may come up. As an aside, it was mentioned that it would be nice to have maps directing people to trails to get to Leprechaun Days activities at Central Park. Also, more bicycle racks could be used at Leprechaun Days, possibly in two locations, for those who bike to the event. MOTION by Bartz to recommend that the City Council adopt the Pedestrian Bicycle Master Plan, with the following changes recommended by the Commission: striking the word consider from the sentence on page 69 that says "The City should e&nsidefformali!�ei existing ordinances to nquirr developers to provide 5'sidewalks, separated by a planted boulevard on both sides of all local streets, unless they are found to be unnecessary by City staff.... " SECOND by Farrell Ayes: 4 Nays: 0 Motion passed. Schultz suggested that the Commission meet to discuss trail priorities in December or January. b. Family Resource Center - Play Equipment Proposals — Schultz reviewed each of the 11 proposals for the new playground equipment for the Family Resource Center. The Commission discussed each plan, taking into account the layout, play opportunities, and how closely each plan met the requested specifications. Based on these criteria, they felt the Minnesota /Wisconsin Playground plan D4997J was the best option. MOTION by Eisold to accept the Minnesota /Wisconsin Playground proposal drawing D4997J as the new playground to replace the existing equipment at the Family Resource Center. - 1 - PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION Regular Meeting Minutes March 29, 2010 APPROVED Members Present: Maureen Bartz, Jason Eisold, Mike Eliason, Sandy Knight, Kevin Strayton Members Absent: None Staff Present: Dan Schultz, Director of Parks and Recreation and Sonja Honl, Recording Secretary Student Volunteer: None Others Present: Tom Schuster, Parks Supervisor and Jason Lindahl, City Planner 1. CALL TO ORDER: Eliason called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. 2. ADDITIONS TO THE AGENDA: None. APPROVAL OF THE FEBRUARY 22, 2010 MEETING MINUTES: MOTION by Bartz to approve the minutes of the February 22, 2010 meeting. SECOND by Knight. Ayes: 4 Nays: 0 Motion passed. 4. AUDIENCE INPUT: None Strayton arrived. 5. DISCUSSION (Response to Audience Input): None 6. OLD BUSINESS: a. UMORE Baseball/ Softball Field Project — A copy of the draft agreement for the baseball/softball fields has been received and Schultz included a copy in the Commission packet. Schultz noted some key issues that the City has concerns with in the Executive Summary. He has shared these concerns with the City Attorney and the City Administrator. He has asked to have these items changed or discussed further. Schultz reviewed each of the issues and asked the Commission for any comments they would like him to share with the City Attorney regarding the project. He asked the Commissioners to e-mail any comments they might have to him. The agreement will be brought back once more for final edit and will be discussed at a future meeting. Eliason stated that we need to be consistent with what we have done in the past as far as what we give parks dedication credit for. b. Former St. Joseph's Church Improvements — Schultz gave a Power Point presentation on the former St. Joseph's Church improvements. Construction on the improvements to the church began in February. Schultz's presentation included photos of the construction on the ramp and stage area in progress, and samples of the paint colors (white /tan /brown) and the carpet that will be used. Schultz also mentioned that originally the stage was to be recovered with carpet, but he has recently met with the local arts council and they suggested that using hard wood for the stage would be a better option. When looking at other performance stages, the most universal flooring is wood. We are currently researching the cost of hardwood or alternative flooring for the stage. Schultz also mentioned that we have had several recent repairs to the boilers and we have also applied for federal stimulus funds to remove one of the boilers and add two new boilers to the facility. Schultz explained to the Commission that because the project came in under bid, replacing the carpet in the main areas of the facility (which was not included in the original bid), has now been recommended to the Council. Other items that staff is also now looking into include: tables, chairs, podium, microphones, portable screen, and Wi -Fi. Rental fees and policies are also being reviewed. Naming /branding of the facility and marketing the facility are also being discussed. Via the City's website and ads in the several newspapers, the public has been asked to offer suggestions for the facility. Using a steeple as the logo for the facility has also been discussed. Schultz will bring a list of the suggestions for the new name to the next Commission meeting. Schultz also mentioned that parking issues at the facility will need to be -1- PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION Regular Meeting Minutes March 29, 2010 addressed. We are currently looking at a construction completion date of July 1, with a grand opening some time after that. This was an update only, and Schultz will prepare a recommendation on the policies and fees and bring it to a future meeting. 7. NEW BUSINESS: a. Pedestrian/ Bicycle Master Plan —Jason Lindahl, City Planner and Tom Schuster, Parks Supervisor, presented information regarding a project they are working on with the Dakota County Active Living Partnership. The City of Rosemount applied for and was awarded a $25,000 SHIP (State Health Improvement Program) grant for funds to develop a pedestrian /bicycle master plan in order to increase activity and encourage people to be more active in our community as part of our comprehensive plan. The funds are part of the Blue Cross Blue Shield tobacco settlement. In -town trips, (to the library, restaurants, parks, etc.), are the main focus of the plan. As part of the process, the City will host a meeting of stakeholders as well as two open houses for the public. A questionnaire will also be available on the City's website, and the group has plans for a variety of other ways to get the word out to the community including flyers, contacting churches, articles in the local paper, etc. Based on the information gathered from the stakeholders and the public, presentations that include recommendations will be given to the Parks and Recreation Commission and finally the City Council. The end result will be a document that tells us where we are now and where we would like to be as far as our pedestrian /bicycle trails. b. Director's Report - The park improvement fund balance as of February 28, 2010 was $1,479,287.78. Interest was $111.11. No parks dedication fees or grants were received. There were no expenditures. Grant for Lighting Replacement at Community Center — The City has applied for a grant to retrofit the lighting at the Community Center in some of the hallways and other areas that are shared with the National Guard. We were recently notified that we are on the short list to receive these funds. Schultz will update the Commission on this grant at the next meeting. Lights at Dakota County Technical College Soccer Fields - We are looking into lighting the main field at DCTC for $85,000, which would be split 50/50 with DCTC and the City of Rosemount. The original agreement for this project did not include light. The City Attorney will be writing an amendment to the original agreement or a new, separate agreement to cover the details. Minnesota Recreation and Parks Association Conference — The MRPA will be hosting a conference at Mystic Lake Casino in April. City of Rosemount Commission Appreciation Dinner — Rosemount Commission members are invited to attend an appreciation dinner on Thursday, April 29 to recognize your service to the community. Sandy Knight was thanked for her contributions as a Parks and Recreation Commissioner. Her term ends with this meeting. 8. ADJOURNMENT MOTION by Knight to adjourn the meeting. SECOND by Strayton. Ayes: 5 Nays: 0 Motion passed. The meeting was adjourned at 8:22 p.m. Respectfully submitted by Sonja Honl, Recording Secretary -2- PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION Special Meeting Minutes APRIL 26, 2010 APPROVED Members Present: Barb Farrell, Maureen Bartz, Jason Eisold, Mike Eliason, Kevin Strayton Members Absent: None Staff Present: Dan Schultz, Director of Parks and Recreation and Sonja Honl, Recording Secretary Student Volunteer: None Others Present: Bill Droste, Mayor; Tom Schuster, Parks Supervisor; Jason Lindahl, City Planner; and Lil Leatham, Hoisington Koegler Group, Inc. 1. CALL TO ORDER: Eliason called the meeting to order at 8:05 p.m. 2. ADDITIONS TO THE AGENDA: Schultz informed the Commission that he had two additional handouts for the Director's Report: A field user fee survey and a proposed Rosemount Area Arts Council (RAAC) agreement. Mayor Droste administered the oath of office to Barb Farrell, new Parks & Recreation Commission member. 3. APPROVAL OF THE MARCH 29, 2010 MEETING MINUTES: MOTION by Eisold to approve the minutes of the March 29, 2010 meeting. SECOND by Strayton. Ayes: 5 Nays: 0 Motion passed. 4. AUDIENCE INPUT: None 5. DISCUSSION (Response to Audience Input): None 6. OLD BUSINESS: a. Pedestrian/ Bicycle Master Plan — Schuster provided a brief recap of the results of the meetings and discussions so far. Lil Leatham, of Hoisington Koegler Group, Inc (HKG7, was introduced and proceeded to review the draft needs assessment and the draft framework map that were created based on input gathered from the public meetings. Obstacles as far as existing trails and sidewalks were discussed (trails that end with no connection, intersections with difficult crossings, etc.) as well as shifting people's mindset by "way finding," using signage, maps and events to enhance the overall experience. Leatham then asked for comments from the Commission. The Commission suggested having more striped crosswalks and also mentioned that cars typically do not stop for pedestrians waiting at crosswalks. Installing pedestrian - activated signs at some crosswalks was suggested. The intersections at Hwy 3 /Connemara Trl and Hwy 3 /Co Rd 42 are two of the biggest challenges as far as safe crossing. Schultz asked if Leatham could provide examples of how crosswalks would be striped. He felt that it was important that we are consistent in marking all crosswalks, as well as remarking them after street overlays. Schultz asked that a list of "general best practices" be created to be used as a guideline, and that an explanation be included as to why crossings are marked in different ways. There was discussion about sidewalk /trail maintenance practices, including plowing in the winter, sweeping loose gravel, etc. Talking to representatives from surrounding cities and Dakota County to find out their plans for trails and where we may possibly be able to connect with their trails was also discussed (Lebanon Hills Park, Parkview Golf Course, Camp Sacajawea, and the Apple Valley Zoo). Leatham pointed out a "focus area" in Rosemount where there are barriers to schools, parks, the Community Center and downtown, especially from the north. She mentioned that people are having trouble getting places due to gaps in trail /sidewalk connections. Our short term goal is to fill these gaps. We also need to clarify whether bikers should be on sidewalks or streets. The Commission mentioned that the crossing signal at Shannon Pkwy /Co Rd 42 is not long enough to allow people to get across the intersection. Eisold also asked that we keep county -wide access in mind, and try to incorporate connections to Farmington, Northfield, etc., and also that commuters are looking for the most direct route available. Leatham will incorporate the suggestions discussed at the meeting into the framework map. Per Schultz, an update on this item will be brought back to the May 24 Commission meeting, and a second open house will be held on June 2. Strayton had to leave the meeting. -1- PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION Regular Meeting Minutes MAY 24, 2010 APPROVED Members Present: Barb Farrell, Maureen Bartz, Jason Eisold, Mike Eliason Members Absent: Kevin Strayton Staff Present: Dan Schultz, Director of Parks and Recreation and Sonja Honl, Recording Secretary Student Volunteer: Stephen Sawyer Others Present: Tom Schuster, Parks Supervisor; Jason Lindahl, City Planner; Lil Leatham, Hoisington Koegler Group, Inc.; John Loch, Rosemount Area Arts Council Member; and Keith Reed, Rosemount Area Arts Council President 1. CALL TO ORDER: Eliason called the meeting to order at 7:02 p.m. 2. ADDITIONS TO THE AGENDA: None 3. APPROVAL OF THE APRIL 26, 2010 MEETING MINUTES: MOTION by Bartz to approve the minutes of the April 26, 2010 meeting. SECOND by Farrell. Ayes: 4 Nays: 0 Motion passed. 4. AUDIENCE INPUT: None 5. DISCUSSION (Response to Audience Input): None 6. OLD BUSINESS: a. Pedestrian /Bicycle Master Plan — Lil Leatham, of Hoisington Koegler Group, Inc. (HKgi), Tom Schuster, Parks Supervisor and Jason Lindahl, City Planner were in attendance to provide an update on this item. Leatham reviewed the refined draft Framework Plan and went over the items that were discussed at last month's meeting. She pointed out a number of sidewalk /trail connections and enhancements that would improve the system. She then reviewed the draft Walk -Bike Priorities outline that was included in the Commission packet. Priorities included creating sidewalk /trail connections in the school complex, creating a trail connection on the south side of Lebanon Hills Park and creating trail connections to downtown Rosemount destinations. The priorities also included several items that would help to make walking and biking safer including an underpass under Hwy 3, improving the conditions at some intersections, and supporting the "safe routes to school" program. Other items that would increase awareness and use of the sidewalk /trail system included creating maps that would be available in printed form and on -line, installing signage to help people find connections, hosting a bike event, and providing bike racks for those using the system. This was only an update and more detailed information will be available at the open house scheduled for June 2. b. Pre - Parkland Dedication UMORE — Staff is continuing to work on this item and hopes to soon receive parks dedication of 22.78 acres that would be used for ball fields. UMORE is asking that we accept the land "as is ". The City is doing some environmental research /soil samples. The Commission asked for clarification of a couple of items in the draft agreement that was included in the packet: Farrell asked for clarification on the second to last paragraph on page 2. Schultz explained what this paragraph means. Bartz asked for clarification on item 2.a. "....the University will he allowed to use the Land Area Credit for at least twenty fve percent (25 %) of the land dedication requirement... ' Per Schultz, he will have the City Attorney revise this to say "... up to twenty -five percent (25 010)..." Schultz also brought up the issue of road ownership and access to the property. The road is split between UMORE and the MNSCU, and the City will need access easements from both in order to have access to the property. MOTION by Eisold to recommend the Pre -Parks Dedication agreement with the University of Minnesota be presented to the City Council for approval. SECOND by Bartz. Ayes: 4 Nays: 0 Motion passed. Schultz asked if we could start the new business with item 7. b. Service Agreement — Rosemount Area Arts Council (RAAC), to accommodate Keith Reed and John Loch, RAAC representatives in attendance. 7. NEW BUSINESS: ME PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION Regular Meeting Minutes JUNE 28, 2010 /_T,-J-ZSITIA-11 Members Present: Maureen Bartz, Jason Eisold, Mike Eliason, Barb Farrell, Kevin Strayton Members Absent: None Staff Present: Dan Schultz, Director of Parks and Recreation and Sonja Honl, Recording Secretary Student Volunteer: Stephen Sawyer Others Present: Jason Lindahl, City Planner; Lil Leatham, Hoisington Koegler Group, Inc.; 1. CALL TO ORDER: Eliason called the meeting to order at 7:04 p.m. 2. ADDITIONS TO THE AGENDA: None 3. APPROVAL OF THE MAY 24, 2010 MEETING MINUTES: MOTION by Eisold to approve the minutes of the May 24, 2010 meeting. SECOND by Bartz. Ayes: 5 Nays: 0 Motion passed. 4. NAUDIENCE INPUT: None 5. DISCUSSION (Response to Audience Input): None 6. OLD BUSINESS: a. Pedestrian/ Bicycle Master Plan — Lil Leatham, of Hoisington Koegler Group, explained what the Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan is and its benefits. The plan is a long -term guide to promote walking and biking for all ages and to make it safe, convenient and fun. She reviewed the updated draft of the plan and explained the various issues based on comments from the Commission and the open houses held in April and June. Key items included completing gaps in trails and providing safe crossings on busy road such as Hwy 3 and Co. Road 42, providing on -line and printed maps as well as signage along tails to increase awareness, maintaining trails and sidewalks year round, and adding bike racks and rest stops. The main priority of the plan is to complete trail and sidewalk connections so that residents can bike and walk safely to Rosemount's downtown, schools and library. Having a safe route to Dakota County Technical College, and creating trail connections to surrounding cities and regional trails were also mentioned as being important. The Commission asked about the time table for the plan. Per Leatham, we can start with small items such as maps and signage for way finding, and the City can move forward on other items as funding allows over the next 25 years. The Commission asked if we have strong enough zoning regulations to make sure sidewalks and trails are included in all new developments. Per Schultz, we have the ability to negotiate this with developers. This plan is meant to be a tool for the City to use as development occurs and funding is available. It will be presented to the Planning Commission, and once finalized it will be presented to the City Council. The Commission asked to see the final draft before making a recommendation on the plan. Schultz asked that the Commission pass on any comments to him, and he will forward them to Leatham. b. St. Joseph's School Athletic Fields — Possible Partnership — Schultz has talked with the St. Joseph's School staff regarding a partnership for ball fields on the school's property. Schultz reviewed the new field plan provided by the school which included two baseball fields and one soccer field. Schultz provided an aerial photo and overlay showing a different layout for the two baseball fields which would allow room for two soccer fields. ( Strayton had to leave the meeting.) The cost estimate for construction of the fields that was provided by the school is approximately $270,748. The school also has provided staff with a draft agreement for use of the fields. As part of the agreement, the City would pay most of the construction costs, with the school having priority use of the fields between 7:00 am and 6:00 pm on school days. They also did not want the fields to be a weekend tournament site, because of weddings, etc. at the church. Per Schultz, we want to be careful about any agreement we enter into that could end after 20 years and leave the City without fields. The Commission pointed out that the weekday evening use would be limited to about two hours, possibly less, per night, and there would be limited weekend use. Our priority would be to get fair use for the funds contributed to the project. The Commission was not in favor of paying all costs for the project. M! PLANNING COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES AUGUST 24, 2010 PAGE 7 Mr. Lindahl stated this rezoning item will go before the City Council for approval at the meeting on September 7, 2010. Old Business: None. New Business: a. Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan. (10- 03 -PLN). Planner Lindahl stated the Rosemount Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan seeks to build on existing infrastructure to create a community where choosing to walk or bike is a safe, convenient and enjoyable recreation and transportation option for all users. Mr. Lindahl reviewed the Plan to the Commissioners in its entirety. Chairperson Ege thanked Mr. Lindahl for the presentation and stated it is nice to know that the Council is supportive of a bike and pedestrian plan within the city. Commissioner Irving stated he is concerned with the discussions of hiring a walk and bike committee and the funding of the project. He asked how much funds currently exist and how much additional funding is needed. Commissioner Demuth felt the plan was a nice piece of work and asked about the funding for the underpass project under Highway 3. Mr. Lindahl replied that there isn't a line item for that particular project in the City budget at the moment. The City did apply for transportation funds to do the project but did not receive that grant. Mr. Lindahl added that having the bike and pedestrian plan in place may help support the City's request for future grants. Commissioner Demuth mentioned a recent planning application for development on the east edge of Bloomfield wherein the applicant proposed sidewalks on both sides of the roads and the Planning Commission agreed not to have sidewalks on both sides of the road. She asked now that the plan recommends sidewalks on both sides, whether or not the Planning Commission can make that same determination in the future. Mr. Lindahl stated that the plan recommends sidewalks on both sides of the street unless staff or the Commission determines that they are not needed such as the case Commissioner Demuth mentioned where the Commission determined sidewalks were not needed on both sides because of the main trail being one street over. Commissioner Powell stated he felt the plan was a great document and resource. He stated it appears by the City Council's comments that implementation is one of the biggest challenges and also how to assign responsibility and measure success. Commission Powell stated he strongly encourages the road diet plan as contained in the bike and pedestrian plan. Mr. Lindahl stated that staff intends to try to provide general numbers of what items cost but also stated that the purpose of the document was to provide a comprehensive plan of how the city's system currently exists and then use the plan as a tool to make improvements to that system. Mr. Lindahl noted that the Planning Commission was in approval of the document overall and in agreement with the City Council's comments. Reports: None. Adjournment: There being no further business to come before this Commission, Commissioner Kolodziejski made a motion to adjourn. Upon unanimous decision, the meeting was adjourned at 8:30p.m.