Agenda - Parks and Recreation Commission - 05/21/2020

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create a water recreation destination in the north metro area. In addition to water recreation, the park supports other outdoor recreation opportunities, such as biking, walking/hiking, picnicking, birdwatching, horse-back riding and cross-country skiing. There are also play structures, observation decks/area, restroom facilities and drinking fountains. The proposal will also protect an additional mile and a half of riverbank habitat and conserve an additional 86 acres of naturally occurring and human built natural resources that support outdoor recreation, making the total acreage for the park 425 acres. Agency and Other Support: 3. The County has passed a Resolution of Support for the application proposal. See Exhibit B. The County is requesting letters of support from the local agencies, which will be included with the application. Public Participation: 4. Comprehensive System Plan, where the proposed system addition was vetted and supported by a stakeholder group of approximately 25 county residents. Recent, public engagement regarding the proposal has been through social media and advertising informing the public about the proposal. Regional Context: 5. Inclusion of Rum River Regional Park into the Regional Parks System will advance the Thrive MSP 2040 and the Regional Parks System outcomes. The Stewardship outcome is advanced by the inclusion of the park in the regional system, which allows the county balanced manner. It also allows for the protection of an additional 1.5 miles of riverbank habitat. Inclusion of the park in the regional system will also advance the Prosperity outcome by allowing investment into the park, ensuring the region is attractive to businesses, workforce and residents alike creating a better quality of life. Inclusion of the park will also enhance Livability in the area through increased access to nature and outdoor recreation in the regional system, particularly for underserved populations in and around the south park unit in Anoka where the nearest regional park is located in Ramsey or Andover. Anticipated Funding Request and Timeline: 6. If approved, this proposal could be implemented immediately. Since the County currently owns and operates the parks, no funding would be required to implement the addition. In 5-10 years, the County does anticipate the need for redevelopment the parks. Anoka County hopes the Metropolitan Parks and Open Space Commission and the Met Council will approve Rum River Regional Parkfor inclusion within the Regional Parks System.