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183 <br />In addition to being a Regional Trail within the Twin Cities metro, this trail is also United States <br />Bikeway #45 within the entirety of Minnesota —connecting 700 miles of existing shouldered <br />highways, low -use roads and off -road paths for bicyclists. While in place in Minnesota, southern <br />states are actively constructing and identifying additional routes. Once complete, USBR 45 will <br />continue south along the Mississippi River to Louisiana —then the U.S. Bicycle Route System will <br />encompass more than 50,000 miles of riding connected to Ramsey. <br />A key improvement benefitting the utility and safe access to the Mississippi River Regional Trail in <br />Ramsey, will be the completion of the pedestrian bridge over Hwy #10 discussed below. <br />Wayside Rest <br />In addition, the aforementioned county facilities, Ramsey also benefits from the Mn/DOT Wayside <br />Rest between Highway 10 and the Mississippi River in western Ramsey that has visitor contact <br />building with restrooms, canoe access and picnic facilities. This site serves as a trailhead for the <br />Mississippi River Trail that traverses from the Headwaters in Minnesota, through 10 states to New <br />Orleans. <br />Local Parks <br />The City of Ramsey is approximately 29 square miles in area, has a population of approximately <br />23,500, and is fortunate to be known for its natural resources. More than half of the City borders <br />the Rum and Mississippi Rivers, and over 15% of its area is protected wetlands. <br />Establishing parks and creating quality recreational and open space opportunities remains a high <br />priority for the City. There are approximately 500 acres of existing municipal parkland and two <br />regional parks with varying amenities, creating a comprehensive system with many diverse <br />opportunities to recreate and enjoy the natural environment. <br />Other Recreation Opportunities <br />Ramsey is also home to a variety of other unique recreation amenities. <br />• Game Fair <br />• Rum River Hills Golf Course <br />• Rum River Scout Camp (Boy Scouts of America) <br />• The Links at Northfork Golf Course <br />• Wayside Rest (State of Minnesota) <br />Planned Park System <br />Recreation Districts <br />Most residents cherish their park system. Given the choice, most would like more parks, especially <br />near their homes. However, financial priorities continue to challenge city leadership to build and <br />manage a park system that meets those desires yet meet the financial obligations to build and <br />maintain these improvements. Currently, the overall amount of acreage devoted to Ramsey's park <br />and open space system is over 1,800 acres, or approximately 10% of the of the City's 28 square <br />miles. Given this large available area, the focus is on using these spaces wisely and connecting them <br />effectively. <br />city of RAMSEY <br />Comprehensive Plan 2040 <br />