Agenda - Council - 06/25/2002 - Laserfiche WebLink

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I I Elmcrest Park's Proposed T.H. #47 Access By: Mark Boos, Parks & Utilities Supervisor Background: As part of the approval to proceed with Elmcrest Park's initial development, Staff was directed to explore acquisition of a park entrance onto T.H. #47 - across from 164th Lane. I I I I I ! I ! I i I I As Council will recall, the above alignment was the only location, which met appropriate sight lines and intersection spacing. These issues and the attached sketch were provided to the current owners of the property early in this process. (It should be noted that the City's desire to acquire an access at this location was communicated verbally and in writing to the previous owner and his Realtor prior to the new owner's purchase of this site). The present property owners have been cooperative in these discussions, but have expressed concerns about impacts to their duplex homesite that the proposed 50' foot wide access may cause. Observations: The neighborhood connection to Uranium Street is in place and will be important to residents at the west side of the park. However, at least two accesses to this 100-plus acre site are required. In addition, the park is expected to be needed for organized soccer play within the next one to two years. A direct, safe and visible route into the park is critical. Staff is of the opinion that not only is there no alternative to a park access at the location noted above - but that with prudent considerations, the use of the property will not be significantly diminished. This consideration would be a cash payment for the 50'foot by 760' foot tract of land for the park driveway, relocation of existing improvements such as trees and landscape and the septic system if necessary. Benefits to the landowner property may include direct access to the park, public frontage to the rear of the 800' foot deep property, and a realignment of the existing duplex's driveway off from the busy highway. An offer to purchase this 3.18 acre access has been tendered earlier this spring, contingent of course, upon Council approval. No formal response has been received. An appointment to continue acquisition discussions is scheduled for the evening before the City Council meeting. Nonetheless, in anticipation of a possible direction in this matter, a condemnation resolution is included with this case. Enclosed for your information: -345-