Agenda - Planning Commission - 12/01/2011 - Work Session

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Overall Framework - Parks/Public Spaces Overview The overall design framework of The COR is based on a system of linked parks, trails and open space. The City of Ramsey, Anoka County, and to some extent, the State of Minnesota all play a role in local and regional parks programming, design review, construction sequencing, implementation and ultimately maintenance and operation of key public spaces within this framework. The goal is to link existing and proposed parks and trails defined in regional park plans with proposed new parks and trails within The COR. Of equal importance is the contribution from each block and each development project to this network of green, adding a variety of private, semi -private, and perhaps some additional public space throughout The COR. Private development will share the responsibility to provide inviting, innovative and useable green space as integral parts of individual parcel site design. Guideline Recommendations The Design Framework encourages the following: • Work with the City to create an integrated, comprehensive open space system that links with existing city and county trails and open space networks • Encourage private development (block -by -block) to share in the responsibility to provide inviting, innovative and useable green space as integral parts of each development project • Integrate stormwater management components (meeting water quality and quantity requirements) within both public / private park and open space improvements Together, the system of public and semi-public green space will result in a welcoming public realm throughout the new community. Objectives Based on the Development Master Plan for The COR, a variety of public and private green space is proposed including: • Each block and each project will provide intentional, creative, innovative, useable green areas as integral components of site development and building design. • At the individual block scale, small squares and greens will provide places for gathering and relaxation, especially targeted to meet the demands of adjacent, or nearby buildings. Elements such as gardens, gazebos and fountains should characterize these more intimate public spaces. • At the neighborhood scale, parks will provide space for more active recreation, and should be flexible enough to accommodate a variety of recreational activities. • Playgrounds, game fields and park buildings are suggested park amenities and will target a wider user demand from the surrounding community. • At The COR, the Municipal Plaza will connect with all other parks and open space elements, providing a focal point for activity and a sense of place. Gardens, public pavilions and shelters, play lots and open play fields are suggested amenities that will provide built-in flexibility to meet the demands of both the local population and regional visitors to The COR. Design Framework — The COR Page 37