Agenda - Parks and Recreation Commission - 04/12/2018

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Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Introduction Today, parks, trails, and natural open spaces are recognized as vital to the quality of life in Ramsey and in many ways define the community. In some ways, Ramsey's park system emerged from the conversion of agricultural land to suburban in the 1970's with small park areas —often just open space, dedicated with these subdivisions. The first prominent park was created in the early 1980's, largely to meet the demand for youth athletics' play fields. Central Park was envisioned as a community park, continues to serve this purpose today and is still viewed as Ramsey's flagship park. In the 1990's trails were added to Ramsey's landscape —and these were embraced every bit as much as parks. City-wide, the value of parks, trails and open space continues to grow, mirroring the increasing population, and corresponding with the conversion of open space to residential uses. Taking advantage of its unique geography, cherished natural resources, and a diversity of recreational venues, while responding to its history and recognized rural character, are both determinants and opportunities for future public realm investments in the community. The Public Realm is what gives cities and neighborhoods their identity —typically including streets, parks, plazas, trails and other amenities. This network of connected spaces supports a host of broader city goals, sets the stage for ongoing quality development, and at the same time; promotes Community Parks and Trails, Regional Parks and The COR, to become a vibrant, dynamic, must -experience destinations. Remaking infrastructure (including public space), as Ramsey develops a stewardship plan for a three decade -old `built' park system, invites an opportunity to promote innovative design strategies that embrace the challenges of a growing city. Ramsey also has a bounty of natural resources to build upon, as in the instance of one of the most renowned rivers in the world. Indeed, both the Mississippi River and Rum River are significant water resources, and both part of the State's Wild and Scenic Rivers system that literally define the borders of the community. These two rivers are also state designated canoe routes, or recreational water trails —reconnecting residents through parks and trails, connects us to our past —as well as our future. Another relevant stream is Trott Brook with its associated wetlands and uplands, representing a natural greenway spanning the northern 1/3rd of the city. Ramsey by area is also 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 people opportunities to both live and recreate in these natural settings. These layers of habitat are valuable vestiges for the wildlife that residents embrace and enjoy. The greenway system referred to as the Circle of Ramsey —with Trott Brook the primary element, will inspire people to move within their community and will help restore ecological connectivity at the same time. Exploring opportunities to reconnect all these valuable resources, to re-establish the continuity, functionality and beauty of these systems through a city-wide greenway will serve as an expression of Ramsey's history, physical character and community identity. People also want safe and enjoyable places that meet a range of recreational needs, providing both indoor/outdoor venues, supporting programmed or spontaneous activities. However, Ramsey will City of Ramsey 2040 Comprehensive Plan Update Parks, Recreation, Trails, and Open Space Chapter Page 2 of 30