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Economic Development Authority (EDA) 4. 1. <br />Meeting Date: 12/08/2011 <br />By: Mark Riverblood, Engineering/Public <br />Works <br />Title: <br />Recommend City Council Resolution Supporting the Mississippi River Trail <br />Background: <br />The Economic Development Authority may be familiar with the Mississippi River Trail (MRT) and the progression <br />of this long-term on and off roadway bikeway. Presently the focus of participants in the MRT initiative is <br />developing and promoting economic activity associated with both local and non -local tourism. The following <br />generalized overview is from www.mississippirivertrail.org, the MRT web site. <br />Location, Length and Alternatives <br />Minnesota's Mississippi River Trail winds roughly 500 miles downriver from its source within Itasca State Park to <br />the Iowa border. With additional miles on alternative routes, Minnesota's MRT route grows considerably. Located <br />largely on the shoulders of paved roads and upon low traffic roads, the route also includes relatively long segments <br />of scenic State and Regional trails. <br />Throughout the 72-mile Twin Cities Metro Area, the MRT is routed on both sides of the River. Although much of the <br />route is presently on -road, several off -road Regional Trails suitable for a wide variety of bicyclists are featured <br />within this segment (local and regional planning is presently underway for several new off -road river -oriented <br />trails with a goal of a continuous 144-mile Metropolitan river loop). <br />Notification: <br />Observations: <br />The attached Hub/Host Communities document discusses briefly the marketing and outreach aspects of this <br />project. Any city wishing to participate in the project as a 'host city' must pass a resolution supporting the goals of <br />the MRT - thus, the purpose of this case. <br />Attachment 3, is the 'Marketing Toolbox', which is a very large document, but is provided in the event EDA <br />members desire to explore the detail of the tourism initiative. <br />Also attached is a draft resolution in a sample format. <br />Staff will present additional information and opportunities for the Commission to consider at the meeting. <br />Funding Source: <br />None required - rather, passing the Resolution and receiving designation as a MRT 'host city' will net the city of <br />Ramsey tourism and economic development assistance coordinated by and with MnDot. <br />Staff Recommendation: <br />Commission Action: <br />