Minutes - Parks and Recreation Commission - 01/11/2024

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5.04: Recommend Trail Gap Construction, a 2024 Capital Improvement Project Parks & Assistant Public Works Director Riverblood stated that there has been a placeholder in the CIP for many years related to trail gap construction. He displayed the trail loop and spokes within that provides trail connections throughout the community. He noted that residents always desire more trails,recognizing the cost and maintenance. He identified two trail gaps and reviewed details on a trail gap opportunity that the Commission could consider. He provided cost estimates and noted that the request tonight is to recommend the development of plans and specifications for the T.H. 47 trail gap. Chair Barten commented that he enjoys seeing these trail gaps addressed as even these small gaps can be important for people that would potentially walk or bike to work or for other purposes. Parks&Assistant Public Works Director Riverblood commented that the daycare is a type of retail establishment that could appreciate that, as people living near the daycare could walk there. He stated that it would be similar for the auto repair business, as residents living nearby could drop their vehicle off for repair and walk back to their home. Chair Barten agreed that this would add value. Commissioner Sis asked if the costs would be offset or recouped if there is development on the vacant lot. Parks &Assistant Public Works Director Riverblood replied that may be partially true, as the City has the ability to require certain development fees at the time of platting. He stated that some of these lots were platted in the 1980s. He stated that the new development could perhaps complete the grading and trail preparation with the City then paving the trail all at one time. Councilmember Musgrove commented that she has seen a lot of work and development within The COR and believes that this area also has potential for increased growth. She commented that this area is walked by the public which shows the demand for the trail connection. She asked about the potential for T.H. 47 improvements and whether that would impact a trail. Parks & Assistant Public Works Director Riverblood commented that in 2028, MnDOT is going to repave T.H. 47 in this area and there will be some improvements to the pedestrian facilities around the CR 5 and T.H. 47 intersection. He commented that T.H. 47 has a tight right-of-way and therefore the City does not want to construct the trail within that right-of-way. Commissioner Bennett commented that as previously stated,there is demand for this trail segment as shown by the foot traffic already going through that area. Commissioner Sis appreciated that staff has considered future improvements to the roadway and are planning a trail which would not be impacted by that. Motion by Commissioner Sis, seconded by Commissioner Bennett,to recommend to City Council the preparation of Plans and Specifications and authorization to obtain bids for T.H. 47 Trail gap. Park and Recreation Commission/January 11, 2024 Page 6 of 7