HomeMy WebLinkAbout6.c. Town Green Master PlanclTt of Ros r. F.am
E=C=M 'SMOMRY FOR ACTMOh
CITY COUNCIL YX=-'TING DAT£: NOVEMBER 5, 1991
AGENDA ITER: AGENDA SECTION:
TOWN GREEN MASTER PLAN .NEW BUSINESS
PREPARED BY:4aj AGE2�mAffEM
DAVID J. BECHTOLD - DIR . �=& R
ATTAC=NTB:
COPY OF TOWN GREEN PLAN
Council authorized the firm of Brauer & Associates to work with a
citizens committee to produce a master development plan for the
area -of Town Green. For discussion areas related to the plan were
to include State Highway #3 from 145th Street to Brockway Glass
Co, the armory site, the City Hall site, Erickson Park, and
:portions of the St. Joseph's Church site.
The actual area identified as Town Green on an attached drawing.
It was important to include the areas listed above for discussion'
to obtain a more clear perspective for design and phasing of the
Town Green development.
Jeff Schoenbauer of Brauer & Associates Presented the Town Green
Plan to -the Parks & Recreation Committee. At the Parks &
Recreation Meeting of October 21, 1991 the Committee did accept
the Town Green Master Plan as presented. Members of the Town
Green Master Plan Committee were present and gave further support
to the Plan. It
The motion by the Parks & Recreation Committee was to accept the
Plan and to recommend to Council that they also move to accept and
approve it.
RECOF-AMNDED ACTION:
Motion to accept and to approve the Town Green Master Plan as
Presented by Brauer & Associates.
COUNCIL ACTION:
Master Plan
for
Erickson Community Square
0 � •
Prepared For:
City of Rosemount
P.O. Box 510
2875145th Street North Lo
Rosemount, MN 55068
Prepared By:
Brauer & Associates, Ltd.
7901 Flying Cloud Drive
Eden Prairie, MN 55344
October, 1991
Table of Contents
1
I. Planning Overview
H. Development Program
1
III. Site Analysis
3
IV. Alternative Concepts
3
V. Master Plan
5
VI. Cost Estimate and General Phasing Program
9
VII. Conclusions
10
List of Figures:
Figure 1: Site Analysis
Figure 2: Concept A
Figure 3: Concept B
Figure 4: Concept C
"
Figure 5: Master Plan
Figure 6: Cast Estimate and General Phasing
Erickson Community Square i
City of Rosemount
Master Plan for Erickson Community Square
Planning Overview Development Program
In early 1991 the City of Rosemount undertook this master The Advisory Committee defined during focus meetings
planning study for Erickson Community Park. the history and general purpose of the park and identified
the major issues affecting its future development. These
To accomplish this task, the City: items make up the development program.
• appointed an ad hoc advisory committee of local The development program is important in that it provides
citizens to oversee the development of a master plan the direction and establishes the basis for the entire master
for the park. planning process.
• hired the firm of Brauer & Associates, Ltd. to facilitate
discussion and develop a park master plan document. General Purpose(s) Of The Park
The master plan document consists of the following major
components: Given their understanding of the park's history and what
its development will mean to the community, the Advisory
• Development Program: defines the park's general Committee was asked to identify what they considered to
purpose and identifies the major issues affecting its be the general purpose(s) of the park:'
future development.
Ornamental and Cultural Theme: the Committee reached
• Site Analysis: identifies the site's existing physical the consensus that the ornamental and cultural theme best
characteristics and its developmental opportunities and represented their thoughts as to the general character of
constraints. the park. A "family" and "community" orientation where
common expressions used by committee members in
• Alternative Concepts: illustrate a number of schematic defining the parks overall atmosphere.
designs and physical relationships in response to the
development program. Ideal Context: tieing in the community's history and
heritage in some form or fashion was cited as an important
• Site Master Plan: is an outgrowth of the accepted consideration.
concept plan and represents the design solution that
best responds to the development program and site General-Meaning' Of Erickson Community Square: the
analysis information. Committee used the following phrases to express their
thoughts as to what the park means to the community
• Cost Estimate and General Phasing Program: projects
the anticipated costs to develop the park and establishes • "a sense of place" in the context of being the central
a general phasing program• focus of the community's social and cultural activities.
The findings related to each of these components are • "a unifying-connecting symbol"
summarized in the forthcoming text.
Erickson Community Square l City of Rosemount
• "a gathering place for residents and non-residents alike."
• "a place that will enhance the cultural uniqueness,
history, identity, and hometown feeling that is uniquely
Rosemount's.
• "a beautification and public open space project that will
give our citizens a sense of place, identity, and
community pride."
• "Sunday evening in the park."
Users Groups; the committee anticipated that typical park
user's would include (but not necessarily limited to):
• individuals and families from the community.
• children (of all ages).
• "garden walkers"
• bicyclists (local and out-of-town)
• local schools (plays, concerts, etc.) and churches
(weddings, outdoor masses, etc.)
• civic groups (for a variety of events, some of which are
listed below).
• local businesses (lunch time walks, etc.)
• out-of-town visitors/travelers.
• senior citizens.
• local garden club (as their local garden "showcase").
• farmers market.
• athletic-event participants and families.
Community Events: The committee envisions that the park
would ideally be suited for a variety of community events,
including (but not necessarily limited to):
• Christmas Tree Decorating Contest and Lighting
Ceremony
• Christmas Carolers and Christmas Pageant
• Leprechaun Day's Events (10 day annual community
celebration).
• 4th of July Fireworks.
• community picnics.
• concerts-in-the park.
Erickson Community Square
General Issues Related To The
Parka's Future Development
Along with identifying the purpose(s) of the park, the
Advisory Committee also identified a number of issues to
address during the planning process. These included.
Amphitheater: providing an amphitheater for community
events and concerts -in -the -park was cited as a key park
amenity. It was also suggested that the stage area itself be
multi-purpose, whereby it could be used for other activities
as well, such as a public gathering spot or perhaps a pond
overlook.
Natural Pond Area: the committee considers the existing
natural pond/storm water detention basin to be an
important site amenity which offers a range of interesting
design possibilities, including.
• an ornamental area featuring flower beds, colorful trees
and shrubs, and an ornamental fountain.
• a walking path with bench locations and pond
overlooks.
• a natural pond area which would contrast with the more
manicured or developed areas of the park.
Vehicle Parknig The committee generally agreed that
parking was a major concern which needed to be
addressed. With respect to this issue, the following points
were made:
• vehicle parking is very limited and barely adequate to
handle the existing parking needs associated with City
Hall, Erickson Athletic Fields, the church, Park & Ride
(MUTA), etc.
• proposed parking lots should be located to effectively
serve the park's parking needs and, wherever possible
and practical, the parking needs of adjacent businesses,
the church, schools, Park & Ride, etc.
Main Access Points; the City Hall parking lot and the Park
& Ride lot are considered the main access points to the
park at this time. Other possibilities should also be
identified and taken advantage of where possible.
Park & Ride Lot (MUTA): this lot, located along Hwy. 3
across the street from the St Joseph's Church, is
considered important because it provides a very nice park
overlook and a possible pedestrian access point.
Trails: a trail system needs to be established to facilitate
pedestrian and bicycle movement within and to/from the
pa's
2 City of Rosemount
Site Design Ideas and -Wish Last" Items: the following list
concern was also expressed as ,to the City's ability to
summarizes the design ideas and "wish list" items that were
acquire the property.
discussed during the meeting:
Athletic Compl= the park's relationship to the athletic
• picnic areas • gazebo • kiosk • benches • horseshoe pit
complex needs to be addressed and understood.
• multi -use building • large community play structure
Dislocation of existing facilities, such as the hockey rinks
• waterfall • deck area near City Hall overlooking park
and warming house, will undoubtedly require their
• wildlife (such as ducks and geese) • decorative lighting
relocation elsewhere, either within this park or some other
• donor board - overlooks • winter activities (skating,
appropriate location.
Christmas events, etc.) • "gateway" at entrance location(s)
• statues/monuments • nature area
General Sate Safety: Safety issues (personal and physical)
need to be identified and addressed as part of the
Historic Church consideration should be given to
planning and design process.
relocating an existing white, wood structure church for
historical purposes. The church could be used for
weddings, community events, etc.
Landscaping and Gardening: the following list summarizes
Site Analysis
the landscaping and gardening ideas and "wish list" items
that were discussed during the meeting:
• arboretum - formal gardens - flower garden
Figure I- Site Analysis identifies the site's existing physical
characteristics and its developmental opportunities and
• wildflower garden • evergreen plantings • screening
constraints'
(parking lots, athletic fields, etc.) • nursery • rose gardens
by main entry areas
The site analysis information along with the development
Downtown Business District, City Hall, SdK*X the
program provided the basis for the preparation of the
Church, the Cemetery, the Armory, Hwy. 3, and 145th.
forthcoming alternative concepts
Street: tieing these areas (as well as other adjacent
properties) both functionally (through pedestrian and
vehicle linkages) and aesthetically (through a common
Alternative Concepts -
design and streetscaping theme, etc.) to the park is
considered an important and integral part of the project.
St. Joseph's Church was noted as a historically significant
Initially, a couple of alternative concepts where prepared
element which should be incorporated into the
to explore different park boundaries and illustrate different
streetscaping design as appropriate. Also noted was the
relationships between physical uses of the site. These
need for a safe pedestrian crossing from the high
concepts respond to ,the issues listed above in the
school/armory area to the park (across Hwy. 3). An
development program and identified in the site analysis.
underpass was suggested as one possible solution.
The following description, along with Figure 2 - Concept A
The mobile home park on the north side of the park also
and Figure 3 - Concept B,summarizes the general
needs to be more effectively tied into the park through
"themes" or "orientations" of these two concepts.
some form of pedestrian access.
Finally, streetscaping along Hwy. 3 should begin north of
Concept A
the armory site and continue south toward the downtown
area. Although the idea of a "gateway" into town was
discussed, the general consensus of the committee was to
Concept A placed a great deal of emphasis on an
avoid a real dramatic feature (such as an arch, etc.) A
"ornamental and cultural" theme, meaning that the site
more subtle "gateway" design was preferred. The
would be very ornate with extensive planting, formal
streetscape design itself should be aesthetically pleasing,
garden, and a number of architectural elements. Important
functional, and serve to tie together the major components
to this concept was its orientation toward the downtown
previously listed.
area.
Sunrise Lumber Property. The committee generally agreed
that this particular parcel of property would provide an
interesting and important link between the park and the
high school, armory and other parks in the area. However,
Erickson Community Square
3 City of Rosemount
Concept B
Although still ornamental in overall character, Concept B
maintained some of the natural character of the site,
especially in the ponding area. Important to this concept
was its orientation more toward the high school and
armory rather than the downtown area. Additionally, this
concept placed a great deal of emphasis on acquiring the
Sunrise Lumber property for park use.
General Summary Statements Related To Concept A & B
In broad terms, the Advisory Committee came to the
consensus that Concept A best represented their idea as to
the theme for and orientation of the park. After reaching
consensus on this issue, the Advisory Committee discussed
specific project elements, with the following points being
made about Concept A (and B):
Downtown Connection: In as much as possible, the
Committee reiterated that a strong tie to the downtown
should be developed, even though they recognized that the
existing commercial development between the site and the
downtown business district creates somewhat of a visible
and physical barrier. The Committee concluded that a
number of access points should be explored, particularly to
the south and west of what is now the hockey rink area.
Park and Ride LA)t The Committee felt that in all
likelihood some additional commercial development would
be developed to the south of the Park & Ride lot.
Therefore, a direct connection, as shown in Concept A,
would be difficult to develop.
Hockey Rink and Flower Garden Area: The Committee
felt that this was indeed one of the principle areas of the
site and should be given due consideration. Although the
idea of a "Historical Center" was given considerable debate,
the general consensus was that it seemed "forced",
somewhat out of place, and expensive. The Committee felt
that a more ornamental and garden theme would best be
suited for this area. It was also felt that site amenities
could be "classically styled" to bring out a historical theme.
Additionally, the Committee suggested that the existing
flower garden be expanded to perhaps three or four times
its current size.
Amphitheater•. the idea of the amphitheater in the location
south of the pond received strong support by the
Committee.
Erickson Community Square
Natural Pond Area: given the uncertainty expressed by
staff as to the pond's current and future use as a storm
water detention basin, the consensus was to leave much of
the ponds perimeter in a natural rather than manicured
state.
Athletic VwJd Buffer. the idea of a strong buffer between
the park and the athletic fields received strong support.
Ornamental shrubs, some flowers, and eactensive tree
planting was considered important along this edge.
North End Ornamental Pond: developing a pond in the
area where topsoil excavation is currently being undertaken
was considered an interesting ,idea and should be given
continued consideration.
Sunrise Lumber Property: even though the prospects of
acquiring this property is clouded with uncertainty, the
Committee concluded that it could serve a legitimate park
purpose and therefore should be included in this master
planning exercise.
Northern Sick of the Park (including Sunrise Lumber): The
elements shown on Concept A for this area were found to
be appropriate and should be expanded west into the
Sunrise Lumber property. More parking and a community -
size creative play structure were cited as important design
elements. Moving the "visitor information area" to this part
of the park was considered appropriate since the City did
not actually own the parcel of land by the school.
Trails: the connection to the high school, armory, and
residential area to the north as well as the athletic fields
were cited as being important and worthy of additional
consideration. The idea of an underpass to facilitate
crossing Hwy. 3 was considered a strong prospect by the
committee and worthy of pursuit.
Historic Church The Committee discussed at length the
merits of incorporating the historical white, wood -structure
church into the park's design. Locating it near the
ornamental garden area, on the Sunrise Lumber property,
and within the park's interior was given considerable
debate. However, in the end, the Committee simply felt
that, given the church's size, the complexities of moving it,
and the costs of renovation and upkeep, it would be best to
leave it out of the park's design. A point that was also
made with respect to the church was that the committee
felt that it was important not to detract from the historic
church along Hwy. 3 by introducing another historical
element of similar magnitude to the area.
Streetscaping: the committee' agreed that a strong tie
between the park, the downtown area, nearby schools, and
the Armory would best be accomplished through a
common streetscaping scheme. Pedestrian movement was
pointed out as being an important element of the
streetscaping design.
4 City of Rosemount
concept C
Based on the review of Concept A and B, a third concept
was prepared for the Committees review. Figures 4 (Part
1 & 2) - Concept C illustrate the revised concept for the
park.
After review and debate, the Advisory Committee came to
the following conclusions:
• the park area on the south end near the City Hall was
simply to ornate and needed to be more relaxed and
informal.
• a parking lot should also be added behind the
businesses which are directly adjacent to the park's
southwester corner. The intent is to service the
businesses parking needs during normal business hours
and the park's parking needs during non -business hours.
It should be noted that a subsequent concept plan for
the southern park area showed this parking lot
connected to the City Hall's parking lot to form a larger
single pot and a drive-through circulation pattern. The
consensus of the Advisory Committee in this instance
was to keep the lots separate as to avoid possible traffic
problems as well as uncertainty related to parking rights
(i.e., business verses park use) and relocation of the
existing flower garden.
• move the amphitheater further south to avoid conflict
with the natural pond/storm water detention basin.
• consideration should be given to the implications of the
possible future expansion of City Hall and the adjacent
parking lot.
• consideration should also be given as to how the
commercial/business area directly adjacent to and
across the road from the armory site impacts the overall
Master Plan for the park. These areas should be
included in the final Master Plan to clearly illustrate
their relationship with the park and the Hwy. 3
streetscaping.
Master Plan—
The
lanThe Master Plan is a direct outgrowth of the discussions
related to the review of the various concept plans and
represents the design solution that best responds to the
development program and the site analysis.
After consideration by the Advisory Committee, the Master
Erickson Community Square
Plan was presented to community residents through a
public meeting. Comments and concerns expressed during
the public meeting were taken into consideration and
incorporated into the Master Plan as deemed appropriate
by the Advisory Committee.
Faure S (Part 1 & 2): Master Plan illustrate the results of
the planning process for Erickson Community Square. This
graphic:
• defines the park's general boundary (consistent with
previous discussions).
• locates and sizes all facilities and site amenities.
Beginning on the south end of the `park and proceeding
north, the following text describes the physical elements of
the Master Plan.
Existing and Future City HaIL• based on other planning
studies, it is reasonable to expect that City Hall will be
expanded in future years. For our planning purposes, the
City Hall is shown to be enlarged from its current size. The
intent within the context of this Master Plan is to illustrate
the buildings relationship with the park rather than dictate
its specific location or ultimate size. In as much as possible,
the building should be orientated toward the park. The
adjacent sidewalk area should be match the design theme
used within the park and downtown streetscape. This would
include paving patterns, lighting, fountains, sculptures, site
amenities, etc.
City Hall Parking Lot: the lot as shown has a capacity of
about 90 cars. In all likelihood, it will need to be expanded
in the future to accommodate the expansion of the City
Hall as well as the development of the park. Given the
site's space limitations, the only opportunity for expanding
the lot is directly to the north. Future expansion of the lot
should be considered as the demand for parking becomes
better defined. Given the inherent space limitations on this
end of the park, the opportunity for expanding the lot is
limited.
Open Picnic Area/Community Gathering Space: the area
directly north of the parking lot is intended to serve as an
open picnic area as well as an area for setting up tents,
concessions, portable restrooms, etc. for community events
and gatherings, such as Leprechaun Days and a farmers
market. The open areas adjacent to the amphitheater
(including the concert seating area) are also intended to
serve as open picnic areas when not being used for
community events.
Fiisting Flower Garden: is intended to remain in its
current location and providean important ornamental
feature within the park. The ornamental theme that the
garden brings to the park should be expanded upon and
integrated into the design for the southern end of the park.
5 City of Rosemount
Garden Path: is directly adjacent to the existing flower
garden and is primarily for providing access to and through
flower garden area. To maintain a sense of intimacy, the
path should be limited to 4 or 5 feet in width and
constructed with irregular flat stepping stones or a similar
natural material. The existing arbor walk-through and
arbor/bench located along and adjacent to the path are
well conceived accents and focal points to the garden area
and are certainly worthy of being incorporated into the
Master Plan.
Multi -Purpose Budding: is an important functional and
architectural component of the Master Plan that will
greatly affect the development of the park's southern end.
Functionally, the building's preliminary development
program calls for restrooms, storage space, a utility room,
and a concessions window/vending area to service the
amphitheater, community events, lunch-time picnickers,
and individuals passing through the community. The actual
development program for the building should be
determined during the design development phase (i.e., the
"next step" in the planning process) as specific needs
become better defined.
Architecturally, the building's design (shape and materials)
will have a direct impact on the design of the adjacent
areas, particularly the surrounding deck area. Given this
impact, the building's design should be done in conjunction
with the adjacent areas to assure that a common design
theme is maintained. It should be kept in mind that the
building's design should be consistent with the design for
downtown streetscaping as well.
Open Shelter: is located next to the multi-purpose building
and is intended to function as a seating area for viewing
the park, a rest stop for bicyclists, and a lunch-time picnic
shelter.
The shelter should be designed in conjunction with the
multi-purpose building to form a strong and cohesive
architectural element and dominant focal point within the
park.
South End Ornamental. Pond: is intended to enhance the
strong ornamental theme created by the existing flower
garden. The ponding area consists of small upper and
lower ponds tied together by a cascading water channel.
The fall or elevation change between the two ponds would
be from three to six feet. Pond fountains are shown in both
ponding areas to add ornamental interest. Rock rip -rap
and boulders along the pond edge and along/within the
cascading water channel would also add considerably
ornamental interest and allow for ease of maintenance.
The ponds would likely be between four and six feet in
depth (to allow for fountains and water turnover) and have
a synthetic liner to prevent leakage.. A small pumping
system will be required to create the cascading water
channel.
Erickson Community Square
Deck Area: is intended to serve a couple of key functions
which will affect its design. First, it is intended to serve as
a nice park viewing area and an informal or casual seating,
resting, and lunch-time area. Secondly, it is intended to
facilitate community events, such as providing a common
gathering area, access to the restrooms, and a stacking area
for concessions. Given that the deck is a major component
of the Master Plan, it demands to be designed in a manner
which is architecturally appealing as well as functional.
Naturally, its design should be consistent with the design
for the building and the downtown streetscape. beck area
amenities would likely include benches, tables, trash
receptacles, lighting, and perhaps planters. Additionally, if
the deck is elevated above and/or cantilevered over the
ornamental pond, and ornamental handrail or wall will be
necessary. Also, to add architectural interest, a colonnade
could be incorporated into the design for the deck as
shown on the Master Plan.
Downtown Businesses Parking Lot: located west of the
ornamental pond, this lot is intended to service the needs
of the adjacent businesses during normal business hours
and the park during off hours. The lot would provide about
50 spaces for joint -use. As with the City Hall lot, this lot
should be constructed with curb and gutter to give it a very
defined edge.
Park Walks: serve as the primary connections from the
downtown business district and City Hall to the key park
features on the south end. The park walks are different
from the more common park trail (i.e., asphalt trail) in
that they are themselves important architectural elements
which serve to tie together key design features.
The paving materials and pattern design for the walks
within the park should be consistent with the walks which
are functionally part of the downtown streetscape. From an
aesthetic point of view, the ideal paving material would be
brick or concrete pavers or a combination of pavers and
concrete paving. If dictated by funding limitations, concrete
paving with a scored surface pattern and perhaps a color
additive would also be an acceptable paving material.
Ornamental Sculpture. should be simple in design and be
related to the Rosemount's history as a community, such as
statue of one of the City's forefathers, etc. It is intended to
provide an ornamental accent, a physical separation
between the more active building/deck area and the
existing flower garden, and serve as a visual focal or
terminus point for those entering the park via the park
walks. Additional interest could be added to the base of
the sculpture by accenting it with a small flower or shrub
bed.
Amphitheater. is intended to be a strong architectural as
well as functional feature of the park. It could be
developed in phases as dictated by funding availability. The
basic grading, concert seating (2,000 to 3,000 person
capacity), and pad for a portable stage could be undertaken
6 City of Rosemount
in phase one, with a formal stage, formal seating (350
person capacity), and a formal walk to the deck area being
completed in subsequent phases.
The architectural style of the stage area, formal seating,
and formal walk should follow the style used for the
building, shelter, and deck area to insure continuity in
design. The stage itself should be raised several feet above
the grade line if possible to allow for unobstructed views
from all seating areas. A paved area in front of the stage
should be provided to service the stage as well as provide
accessible seating for special populations. It should be
noted that the stage could be designed to allow for its use
as an informal viewing and sitting area when not in use for
community and school events.
The actual location of the amphitheater is important in that
it must be located safely above the established high water
mark of the natural pond/storm water detention basin to
its north. The City's Utility Department should be involved
in defining the criteria which will impact the amphitheaters
location to avoid any potential long-term conflicts in this
regard
South End Site Amenities: includes items such as parking
lot and walkway lighting, benches, trash receptacles,
drinking fountains, signage, ornamental fencing, traffic
controls, bollards, etc. The design and materials used for
the site amenities should follow a common theme used for
the downtown streetscapes. Classically styled site amenities
which play upon the park's ornamental and cultural theme
as well as accentuate the community's history seem most
appropriate for this park. The master plan does identify a
number of locations for benches. Naturally, other locations
should be considered during design development to insure
that adequate seating opportunities are available within the
park.
Downtown Businesses: the commercial/business buildings
shown on the Master Plan on the south end of the park
represent functional relationships rather than specific
building shapes and sizes. The intent within the context of
this Mater Plan is to illustrate how they relate to the park's
future development.
South End Landscaping: an extensive planting program
featuring a variety of plant materials is necessary to
enhance the ornamental and visual appeal of the area
around the deck, buildings, ornamental pond, existing
flower garden, and near the amphitheater. Flower beds and
ornamental shrubs should be planted directly adjacent to
the fore -mentioned physical features to create a dramatic
visual impact and accent these key design elements. Larger
plant materials should be used extensively as well to accent
key design elements, enhance and control on and off-site
views, and screen unappealing off-site uses.
How extensive the planting program should be in this area
depends a great deal on the maintenance crews ability to
Erickson Community Square
maintain and/or on the ambitions of the local volunteer
garden club. Naturally, maintenance concerns should be
considered prior to implementing any planting program to
insure that what is planted can be taken care of properly.
Park and Ride Lot: is located along State Hwy. 3 across
from St. Joseph's Church. The lot should be designed in
conjunction with the downtown streetscape to assure
continuity in design. Although no direct link from the lot
to the park is practical given the elevation change between
the two, there is an opportunity to provide a walkway and
park overlook adjacent to the lot. Benches, trash
receptacles, parking lot and walkway lighting, and
ornamental fencing are appropriate amenities and should
be provided in this area. An information kiosk and bus
shelter should also be incorporated into the lots design.
As with the City Hall lot and streetscape, this lot should be
constructed with curb and gutter to give it a very defined
edge.
Park Trails: the park trails (asphalt trails) are intended to
provide pedestrian and bicycle ! circulation within the park
and linkage to adjacent areas, such as the park and ride
lot, City Hall, downtown business district, athletic fields,
armory, schools, and the community -wide trail system..
Most of the trails will be eight feet in width as called for
on the Master Plan. The trail link from the City Hall
parking lot to the amphitheater stage should be 12 feet
wide to allow access for maintenance vehicles, etc. All of
the trail alignments should give the user a quality
experience of the park and provide a number of options for
routes to walls. The exact location of each trail should be
established in the field during design development to take
advantage of the opportunities afforded by the site. In
other words, the trail alignments as illustrated on the
Master Plan should be considered approximate and not
absolute.
Existing Natural Pond: the pond itself serves as a storm
water detention basin. The City's Utility Department
should be involved in determining the high water mark and
defining the criteria which will impact development around
the pond to avoid any potential long-term conflicts in this
regard.
The park land directly adjacent to the pond should remain
a natural vegetative area. This natural area will provide a
nice contrast with the other, more manicured areas of the
park, provide some wildlife habitat, allow for a certain
degree of flexibility in the pond's water level, and require
less day-to-day maintenance. To add interest, additional
native plant materials should be reestablished around the
perimeter of the pond
Athletic Field Buffer. extensive tree and shrub plantings
should be planted as a buffer between the park and the
adjacent athletic fields. This will not only provide a sense,
of separation between the two park uses but add to the
park's overall aesthetic appeal as well. The planting
7 City of Rosemount
program should include a variety of flowering shrubs,
overstory and understory deciduous trees, and coniferous
trees.
Pica Shehers/Park Overlooks: these are small covered
structures with picnic tables and benches situated to take
advantage of the views and vistas across the site. As with
the park trails, the exact location of each shelter/overlook
must be established in the field during design development
to take full advantage of the opportunities afforded by the
site. Architecturally, the shelters/overlooks design (shape
and materials) should be consistent with the larger picnic
shelters and buildings located within the park.
North End Ornamental Pond: by taking advantage of an
existing topsoil mining operation, this pond will add an
important ornamental and aesthetic element to the park.
Although ornamental in character, it is intended to be
somewhat less formal than the pond on the south end of
the park. As with the other pond, the pond edge should
have rip -rap and boulders to add ornamental interest and
allow for ease of maintenance. Since the pond would likely
be fairly deep (10 to 20 feet) due to the mining operation,
no liner would be required, except perhaps along the pond
edge/shoreline to control weed growth. The pond would in
all likelihood serve some degree of storm water detention
as well. A pond fountain and ornamental shrubs and trees
planted along the pond edge would add additional aesthetic
appeal to the area surrounding the pond.
Community Play Structure: is a large multi-level structure
designed for a variety of age groups. The structure could
either be a manufactured variety or one which is designed
by a professional play equipment designer and built by the
community. The advantage of manufactured play structures
is that they have a proven track record, offer a variety of
construction materials and color options, have virtually
unlimited design possibilities, and are designed by
professionals to promote safety. In either case, the
structure should offer a continuous play experience, be safe
to use, and add to overall appeal and usability of the park.
North End Multi -Purpose Building: as with the other
multi-purpose building on the south end of the park, this
building is an important functional and architectural
component of the Master Plan.
Functionally, the building's preliminary development
program calls for restrooms, a warming house, storage
room, utility room, and possibly a concessions
window/vending area to service the community play
structure, athletic fields, and hockey rinks,. The actual
development program for the building should be
determined during the design development phase (i.e., the
"next step") as specific needs become better defined.
Architecturally, the building's design (shape and materials)
should be consistent with the other buildings on the south
end.
Erickson Community Square
Group Picnic Shelters: the small and large group picnic
shelters are intended to not only provide a place for groups
to gather but add an architectural element to the north end
of the site. As such, the shelters design (shape and
materials) should be consistent with the buildings located
within the park. The actual size of each shelter should be
determined during the design development phase and in
response to perceived community demand at that time.
North End Parking Lot: given the very limited parking
available to serve the needs of not only this park but the
athletic complex as well, this parking lot becomes a very
important component of the Master Plan. As shown on the
plan, the lot provides approximately 180 parking spaces.
As with the City Hall lot, this lot should be constructed
with curb and gutter to give it a very defined edge. Parking
lot lighting should be consistent with the lighting used in
the City Hall lot and streetscape.
Park Entrance Feature: should be designed to be consistent
with the streetscape and serve as a focal point for those
entering the community and park from Hwy. `3. It should
also serve to welcome people to the community, provide
visitor information (i.e., City maps, brochures, etc.),
identify the park area, and post upcoming events. The
feature could be accented by trees, shrubs, and perhaps a
small rose garden. A few short-term parking spaces should
also be provided.
Hockey Rinks/Ice Skating: the rinks should be oriented
north -south and located where they can be screened to
some degree from view. The use of plant materials and
earth berming should be used to help screen them from
the more passive park areas. They should be permanently
constructed and have adequate lighting. The adjacent
skating rink should also have lighting and provide direct
access to the warming house.
General Site Amenities; includes items such as walkway
lighting, benches, trash receptacles, drinking fountains,
signage, bollards, etc. The design and materials used for
the site amenities should follow the architectural theme
which is established on the south end of the park during
the first phase of development. As stated, classically styled
site amenities which play upon the park's ornamental and
cultural theme as well as accentuate the community's
history seem most appropriate for this park. The master
plan does identify a number of locations for benches.
Naturally, other locations should be considered during
design development to insure that adequate seating
opportunities are available in the park. This holds true for
other amenities such as picnic tables and grills as well.
Volleyball Courts: as with the hockey rinks, the volleyball
courts " should be oriented north -south. A sand playing
surface within a defined container (e.g., wooden timbers)
would provide a safe playing area and help control
maintenance costs.
8 City of Rosemount
Horseshoe Pits: again as with the hockey rinks, the
horseshoe pits should be oriented north -south.
Open Picnic Areas: with the exception of the natural area
around the existing pond, the open areas of the site are
intended to be manicured grass with trees, shrubs, and
flower beds scattered throughout. These areas should be
suitable for walking, sitting, picnicking, and general open
play. Scattered picnic tables and grills are also appropriate
within these areas.
Overall Landscaping Program: an extensive planting
program featuring a variety of plant materials is necessary
to enhance the ornamental and visual appeal of the park.
The planting program should focus on accenting key design
elements, enhancing and controlling on and off-site views,
and screening undesirable off-site features.
Pedestrian Underpass (Hwy. 3): is intended to effectively
and safely tie the park's trail system to the community-
wide trail system, nearby schools, the armory, and the
developed/developing areas west of Hwy. 3. Given the
potential volume of pedestrian and bicycle traffic making
this east -west movement, the underpass should be
considered an important component to the long-term
success of the park. In this light, the underpass should be
given due consideration when this area of the park is
developed and/or Hwy. 3 is upgraded in the future.
Streetscaping: within the context of this master plan, the
Hwy. 3 streetscaping area begins north of the armory site
and extends south to the intersection of Hwy. 3 and 145th
Street. Ideally, the road itself should be upgraded to urban
design standards, including curb and gutter. As with the
parking lots, curb and gutter provides a very defined edge
and an important streetscape design element.
It should be noted that the roadway width, location of turn
lanes, and intersection with adjacent streets as shown on
the plan are speculative only. The actual roadway design
will be based on specific transportation needs and State
design criteria which is beyond the scope of this project.
The intent within the context of this project is to define the
key elements of the streetscaping program and illustrate
how it ties into the development of the park.
The streetscaping program includes elements such as street
and walkway lighting, walkways and trails, benches, trash
receptacles, drinking fountains, signage, ornamental
fencing, traffic controls, bollards, etc.
overall streetscaping theme to
Business/Commercial De
Armory): is intended to illu
and aesthetic relationship is
ultimately developed in this
to insure that the entrance
an appealing and positive e:
Cost Estimate
Phasing l
continuity in design.
pment (Across From
e that a strong functional
rable between whatever is
and the park/streetscape
the city from the north is
General
Although certainly not an ex ct science, estimating or
projecting the costs to develop this park is important
because it provides the citizens of the community,
governing bodies, and City staff1with a basic understanding
of the economic commitment #necessary to put the park's
Master Plan into effect. Thestimated costs to develop
the park will also affect development priorities and the
manner in which development in phased.
The City should use the figures below only as "benchmarks"
to compare the relative costs oitems and for budgeting
purposes. Actual cost to acgUie land and develop the
Master Plan will depend a great deal on:
• the actual land values at the time of acquisition.
• the actual construction costs at the time of
development.
• how much of the costs fordevelopment can be offset
through alternative fun ng programs, such as
volunteerism, grants, donations, etc.
The cost estimates below are ba4sed on typical development
costs in 1991 dollars (as determined by industry cost -to -
construct averages i.e. what it would typically cost, on
average, for a contractor to cone in and do the work).
Park Land Acquisition Costs
The Master Plan includes om
City does not currently own.
As stated, classically styled site amenities which play upon The parcel under consideratioi
the park's ornamental and cultural theme as well as Sunrise Lumber Company. At
accentuate the community's history seem appropriate for of this parcel of property is bei
the streetscape as well. independently by the City and 1
specific cost figure is available
Armory Site. the armory, which serves a number of park
and recreation purposes, should be tied to the park
through the trail system. It should also be tied to the
Erickson Community Square
9
parcel of land which the
r is currently owned by the
this point, the actual value
ag considered and assessed
he land owner. As such, no
for inclusion in this report.
City of Rosemount
V
Although this parcel plays an important role in the park's
Master Plan, it may not be either available for purchase
or the City may not be able to fund its acquisition. If this
becomes the case, the overall integrity of the Master Plan
is not entirely lost. Even without this parcel, the south end
of the park will be, once developed, an important
community gathering place and make a significant
contribution to the community's park system. However, if
the vision of this master planning process is to be realized,
every effort should be made to include this parcel within
the park.
Park Development Costs
The cost estimate and general phasing program for
developing the park is illustrated in Figure 6 - Cost
Estimate and General Phasing Program.
The suggested phasing is based on what the Advisory
Committee felt was the most reasonable approach to the
park's future development and their best judgements given j
current conditions. Since conditions, opportunities, and
priorities will undoubtedly change over time, the City
should review the phasing program and cost figures on a
periodic basis and make adjustments as warranted.
{
Conclusion
The citizens of Rosemount should commend its City
Council,. Park and Recreation Committee, and the Advisory
Committee for their concern in planning for such a
valuable communityresource as the Erickson Community
,
ty
Square. The Advisory Committee in particular put in
many hours debating the issues facing this park and came
to some tough and critical decisions about its future. The
park will one day be a treasure for future generations.
Rosemount is lucky to have citizens who feel passionate
about its existence and the manner in which it is developed.
Erickson Community Square 10 City of Rosemount