Agenda - Parks and Recreation Commission - 03/09/2017

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City of Ramsey 2030 Comprehensive Plan Update Chapter 10:Parks, Recreation and Open Space 10. PARK, RECREATION AND OPEN SPACE A. Existing Park and Recreation Facilities Parks and natural open space are vital to the quality of life in Ramsey and in many ways define the community. Ramsey is fortunate to have retained many natural resources within its boundaries. One such example is Trott Brook with its associated wetlands and uplands, creating a natural greenway spanning the northern 1/31d of the city. Another is Elmcrest Park with the future potential of trails along Ditch 966, crossing the center of Ramsey, connecting Central Park, the Lake Itasca Trail, and neighborhoods along the way. Ramsey by area is more than 17% wetlands of varying types and classes. Of the many wetland complexes, some have valuable oak and other forested areas in association providing residents opportunities to live and recreate in these natural settings. These patches of habitat are valuable vestiges for the wildlife that residents value. Mississippi River and Rum River are significant water resources, and both part of the State's Wild and Scenic Rivers system and literally define the community. These two rivers are also state designated canoe routes, or recreational water trails. It is Ramsey's bituminous trail and sidewalk system that can be said to be the recreational fabric that knits all of these parks and resources together,while providing a recreational resource unto itself. The City of Ramsey is also unique in that it has two county parks within its boundaries that are a part of the Metropolitan Council's regional system. Mississippi West Park includes bluffs, wooded areas and two islands on the Mississippi River. The 273 acre park is proposed to be developed within the next several years. The concept plan suggests a sustainable design center in addition to the usual county park facilities. One important feature will be a small boat landing and fishing pier, which will provide additional access to this most prominent river in the nation. Rum River Central Park is 434 acres, 304 acres of which are in the City of Ramsey (the remaining is in the City of Oak Grove) and occupies the northeast corner of the city. The park has received over two million dollars in investments in recent years, including miles of bituminous and equestrian trails as well as a large pavilion, and canoe and small boat landing. In addition the county facilities, Ramsey also benefits from the Mn/DOT Wayside Rest between Highway 10 and the Mississippi River in western Ramsey that has visitor contact building with restrooms, canoe access and picnic facilities. This site may also serve as a trailhead for the future Mississippi River Trail that will traverse from the Headwaters in Minnesota,through 10 states to New Orleans. Several community and neighborhood parks ranging in size from less than one acre to over 100 acres are to be found throughout the City. These parks were typically deeded to the City as part of the subdivision park dedication requirements. Neighborhood parks include play structures,play fields and trail connections,while many non-urbanized public land remains undeveloped or is recognized as open space. Emerald Pond Park is unique in terms of a pergola and faux stream and like many neighborhood parks, popular for day care providers. Two notable community parks include the 45-acre Central Park (primarily an athletic complex), and also River's Bend Park with a mix athletic facilities,natural resources, and access to fishing. In terms of significant outdoor recreation available from the private sector, Ramsey has two 18-hole golf courses open to the public; the Links at Northfork located in northwest of Lake Itasca and Rum River Hills City of Ramsey 2030 Comprehensive Plan Page 10-1