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FC CASE AUTHORIZE MASTER TRAIL PLAN By: Mark Boos, Parks/Utilities Supervisor Background: Included within the 1999 Parks Operations Budget is a $22,950 line item entitled "Professional Services." This amount is an increase over prior years and is intended to address two projects. One of which is the golf course feasibility study that was authorized by City Council this past spring. The more critical project, however, is a Master Trail Plan for the City. With a few exceptions, trail construction has occurred in smaller increments and as part of other development activity -including residential subdivisions, new road construction, or commercial/ industrial development. As these opportunities wane, the City may need to be more aggressive in terms of trail development and funding to meet resident expectations. Currently, a summary of Ramsey's trail system is as follows: Existing Proposed Off Road Urban 3.8 12.3 On Road A 24.2 8.1 On Road B 9.3 24.1 Multi-purpose 4.6 32.2 The attached typical sections provide an elevation view with dimensions of the above descriptions. It should be noted that the "On Road A" trail is not really a trail but a paved shoulder. This shoulder is probably not always safe for children and seldom pleasant in terms of a recreational experience as compared to "On Road B" trails. Discounting the paved shoulders, Ramsey has 17.9 miles of existing trail and 68.8 miles of proposed trail. The trail system as shown is the minimum required for Ramsey. (Ultimately, the City in some instances may need to have trails on both sides of roadways as other communities do.) The existing segments are appreciated and well used, and the majority of residents desire more trails and increased connections. Ramsey's Park and Recreation Commission and staff are in agreement that a Master Trail Plan should be developed to complement the Commission's Park and Trail map. This plan, prepared with the assistance of a consulting and engineering firm, will address a number of different issues, most notably trail construction costs and fimding recommendations. Observations: On March 23, 1999, City Council authorized staff to obtain proposals for a Trail Plan that would address the most significant trail corridor in the City - the Trott Brook Trail. Staff proceeded with an RFP for Master Trail Plan services for two reasons: If needed, the Trott Brook portions of the larger plan could be performed and funded separately (based upon how the RFP was configured); and more importantly, an examination of the Trott Brook Trail should not be undertook without an understanding of all of the other implications and considerations related to trail development in Ramsey.