Agenda - Council - 11/25/2008 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Boonestoo's 2008 Comp Plan Corrections and updating X. PARK, RECREATION AND OPEN SPACE A. Existing Park and Recreation Facilities Parks and natural open space are vital to the quality of life in Ramsey and in many ways define the community. Ramsey is fortunate to have retained many natural resources within its boundaries. One such example is Trott Brook with its associated wetlands and uplands, creating a natural greenway spanning the northern 1 /3 of the city. Another is Elmcrest Park with the future potential of trails along. Ditch #66, crossing the center of Rams onnecting Central Park, the Lake Itasca Trail, and neighborhoods along the way. Ramsey by area is more than 17% wetlands of varying types and p1 seS Of the any wetland complexes, some have valuable oak and other forested areas in a ' ation providing residents opportunities to live and recreate in these natural setting' hese p e s of habitat are valuable vestiges for the wildlife that residents value. Mississippi River and Rum River are significant water r Wild and Scenic Rivers system and literally define the co state designated canoe routes, or recreational water sidewalk system that can be said to be the recrea resources together, while providing a recreational res The City of Ramsey is also unique are a part of the Metropolitan C bluffs, wooded areas and two is to be developed within the center in addition to the s boat landing and fis river in the nation. h part of the State's se two rivers are also sey's bituminous trail and tha knits all of these parks and o itself. o county parks within its boundaries that system. Mississippi West Park includes sissippi River. The 204 acre park is proposed The concept plan suggests a sustainable design facilities. One important feature will be a small will provide additional access to this most prominent Rum River C ntr: �''Als 309 and occupies the northeast corner of the city. The park has receiv e' over 2 diAion dollars in investments in recent years, including miles of bitumino ( d e ue$trian trails as well as a large pavilion, and canoe and small boat landing. In : � d rti 6 � the e fy facilities, Ramsey also benefits form the MnDot Wayside Rest between High + G the Mississippi River in western Ramsey that has visitor contact building with re ao s, canoe access and picnic facilities. This site may also serve as a trailhead for the future'` ississippi River Trail that will traverse from the Headwaters in Minnesota, through 10 states to New Orleans. Several community and neighborhood parks ranging in size from less than one acre to over 100 acres are to be found throughout the City. These parks were typically deeded to the City as part of the subdivision park dedication requirements. Neighborhood parks include play structures, play fields and trail connections, while many non - urbanized public land remains undeveloped or is recognized as open space. Emerald Pond Park is unique in terms of a pergola and faux stream and like many neighborhood parks, popular for day care providers. Two notable community parks include the 45 -acre Central Park (primarily an athletic