Agenda - Parks and Recreation Commission - 06/09/2011

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Park and Recreation Commission Meeting Date: 06/09/2011 By: Mark Riverblood, Engineering /Public Works Title: Discuss Trott Brook Greenway Notification: 5.2. Background: For many years, as part of park and trail planning, the Trott Brook Greenway was conceived as a ecologically rich wetland and wooded corridor with trails for exploration and recreational opportunities, as well as to connect neighborhoods and the community. This greenway would be the significant west to east segment of a larger circuitous loop in the center of the city - with the the Trott Brook representing the upper part of the 'loop'. The east portion of the circle would be the T.H. #47 trail, extending south to the Bunker Lake Boulevard Trail (or the Mississippi River Trail once completed). The Lake Itasca Trail then would pick up at the west end of the above - mentioned trail(s) and 'loop' back around to the north, or point of beginning. The project has been 'coming together' foremost as part of subdivision platting in the 1990's and the subsequent decade. Observations: Now that the Alpine Drive and Bunker Lake Boulevard extension trail are being completed, much of the larger loop is in place for public enjoyment and use. In 2003, the city presented a proposal to the Legislative Commission on Minnesota (LCMR, now LCCMR) for funding conservation and trail easements (and fee simple) acquisitions from willing sellers along the brook. The proposal was approved by the legislature for two million dollars, but then reduced to $500,000 as part of that year's state budget balancing. The project was closed out successfully in June of 2006, with 64.14 acres of trail or conservation easements acquired, and significant junk piles cleaned up along the brook in what is now the Brookfield Addition. The attached exhibits summarize the outcomes and illustrate the location of the properties discussed. The purpose of this case is threefold and are as follows: 1) To review the Trott Brook Greenway in advance of the Council's consideration of public lands utilization and disbursement. 2) Review the history of the greenway for possible application for future grants to ultimately 'close the trail loop'. 3) To bring forward for discussion, a proposal from a land owner in Ramsey that is willing to sell land to the city that would be part of the proposed Trott Brook Greenway. (Staff will organize the e- mailed inquiry and present the information at the meeting.) Funding Source: