Agenda - Council - 09/24/2013 - Laserfiche WebLink

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travel along the shoulder of County Road 83/Armstrong Boulevard. With annual average daily traffic (AADT) volumes forecasted to increase significantly from 4,800 to approximately 18,000 vehicles, non -motorized travel along this roadway will continue to be intimidating and dangerous. The proposed trail will eliminate these safety concerns, as well as provide the north - south connectivity the community is currently lacking in its loop trail system. This proposed trail will connect directly to Central Park, which is a 45-acre community park with athletic fields, restrooms, and a drinking fountain. This proposed trail segment is the second phase of a plan to complete a trail along County Road 83/Armstrong Boulevard from County Road 116/Bunker Lake Boulevard to the Trott Brook Greenway/167th Lane. Phase three of the project will continue north from Central Park/161st Avenue to the Trott Brook Greenway/167th Lane. In addition, this proposed trail segment will contribute to creating better trail connections to the site of the annual Game Fair at Armstrong Kennels Ranch, which is located just west of County Road 83/Armstrong Boulevard on 161st Avenue. Game Fair is the nation's largest outdoor, pre - hunting, family participation event. It is held annually over two weekends each August and attracts approximately 50,000 attendees. As much of the parking for this event is accommodated off -site nearby, and at Central Park, this trail segment will significantly improve safety and mobility in the area during the event as motorized and non -motorized transportation would now be separated. Additionally, Anoka County has authorized a crosswalk at the intersection of 161st and Co. Rd. #83 where this proposed trail would connect to, which will be completed in the fall of 2011. 42. I Community Commitment to Trail Use: The City's Master Park & Trail Plan identifies the importance of providing facilities and amenities to support trail users. Users of the proposed County Road 83/Armstrong Boulevard will be able to access restrooms, parking and a drinking fountain at Central Park, which is located at the northern end of the proposed trail. Every June, the City of Ramsey sponsors a two-day, daytime Kids Safety Camp for 180 second and third graders (2010-11 school year). The goal of safety camp is to teach children how to prevent themselves from becoming victims of unintentional injuries such as when they are on bicycles. The Ramsey Police Department and Safe Kids Anoka County also facilitate bike helmet sales and fittings (for both kids and adults, including helmets that residents already own, at no charge). Every September, the City of Ramsey facilitates the 15K Family Bike Tour for residents to explore the many parks and trails that Ramsey has to offer in a safe and fun environment. Participants are led by tour leaders and Ramsey Police Officers as they make their way from stop to stop on a clearly marked path through Ramsey. Ramsey has made wise investments in trails over the past 15+ years and public demand for trails continues to grow. The City recently completed community surveys that found an ever- increasing interest in trail usage. This desire was also expressed strongly at the community meetings that occurred in 2007 and 2008 as part of the City's 2030 Comprehensive Plan update process. Revised 8/9/2011 Page 7