Minutes - Parks and Recreation Commission - 10/10/1996

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The park will serve two primary functions: 1) Active Use for organized athletics mostly associated with the Ramsey Youth Athletic Association (RYAA) including baseball, softball, football, and tennis; 2) Passive Use for such activities as walking/jogging paths and a wildlife area with a pond for possible fishing. A walking path would parallel 153rd Avenue. There has also been consideration given for possible incorporation of a sliding hill on the west side of the park during the winter. Other amenities would include a picnic shelter, warming house, and ice skating and hockey. A centralized concession stand would be considered. An access road from 153rd Avenue would be created to service separate parking areas. Mr. Boos explained reasoning for creation of two parking areas. Some of those relate to problems encountered at Central Park and estimated parking needs relative to each ballfield's size/makeup. Originally, there were four softball/baseball (emphasis on baseball) fields proposed. However, the Parks/Utilities Supervisor indicated it was more feasible for three fields given size and placement locations which will help minimize conflict--such as a stray baH--with each field. A major concern associated with multiple fields in one area is the potential for a spectator or player to be impacted by a ball outside of the field of play. Commissioner Droegemueller stated he visited the Alpine Park location after the last Commission meeting. During his visit he conducted measurements and assessed what is available for the Active Use areas while trying not to impede on the Passive Use areas. Information based on usable space which would most effectively serve the current and future needs of the RYAA was compiled. Copies of the information were distributed to each Commission member present including the Parks/Utilities Supervisor. The diagram of the RYAA proposal for the Active Use area includes two soccer fields, an ice skating area, five baseball fields and over 200 parking positions. Three of the baseball fields would be sized at 280 feet for the Sandy Koufax level, 14 years of age and under. Two fields would be sized at 240 feet for the PeeWee Reese level, 12 years of age and under. It is felt the tennis courts would fit better in the Passive Use area. Commissioner Droegemueller emphasized the necessity to address future needs as well as current ones. He added there is a need for at least four if not five Sandy Koufax-level baseball fields even if they have to be put in back to back. As well, one soccer field does not address future needs as the City's soccer program is growing by leaps and bounds. There are also issues of no immediate plans to install lighting. Commissioner Johns questioned interference of balls from the neighboring fields. Commissioner Droegemueller responded the field's 280-foot dimension would most likely provide adequate safety when baseball is played by the kids. Commissioner Johns inquired about the same scenario with soccer. Commissioner Droegemueller stated that an outfield fence would help alleviate any potential of this happening. He added the chances of game action happening perpetually in the same location is minimal. Mr. Boos expressed the same concern as Commissioner Johns and how this would pertain to adults who play softball. Commissioner Droegemueller cited approximately 50-60 feet between each field which would diminish this occurrence. Park and Recreation Commission/October 10, 1996 Page 4 of 6