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<br />CASE # 2 <br /> <br />MISSISSIPPI RIVER REGIONAL TRAIL <br />By: Mark Riverblood, Parks Supervisor <br /> <br />Background: <br /> <br />As the Commission is aware, many of the existing and proposed trails within Ramsey's Park <br />and Trail plan Iiave regional significance in addition to their importance to the community. <br />Ramsey's trail along Bunker Lake Boulevard for instance, is designated a Regional Trail by <br />Metropolitan Council's Parks and Open Space Commission. This designation can provide <br />funding for these regional resources through an implementing agency such as Anoka County <br />Parks. Rum River Central Park in Ramsey was constructed using these monies. <br /> <br />Staff from the City of Anoka and Ramsey for many years has worked to establish trail and <br />sidewalk connections between our communities. One important east/west connection remains <br />however between the Mississippi River and US Hwy #10 and #169. This is an area of <br />Floodplain Forest directly across the highway from the Anoka Technical College known as <br />Kings Island. <br /> <br />A few years ago, Anoka, Ramsey and Anoka County organized a feasibility study to identify <br />specific routes, costs and opportunities for a trail that would connect the above communities as <br />well as to Sherburne County. This draft study was discussed approximately three years ago at <br />a joint meeting of the Park and Recreation Commission and City Council. <br /> <br />Observations: <br /> <br />The purpose of this case is for the Commission to review the study; and recommend City <br />Council adopt a Resolution supporting the inclusion of the Mississippi River Trail within the <br />Regional Park and Trail system. The City of Anoka has adopted a similar resolution this <br />month; and Anoka County Park's is expected to make the above request of Metropolitan <br />Council's Parks Commission in October 2006. This timing will allow for a subsequent request <br />for funding portions of the trail within Metro Park's next 5-year CIP. <br /> <br />Staff Recommendation: <br /> <br />Staff recommends the Commission forward the attached Resolution to City CQuncil for their <br />consideration. <br /> <br />Commission Action: <br /> <br />Motion to recommend City Council adopt a resolution supporting inclusion of the Mississippi <br />. River Trail through Ramsey in the Regional Park and Trail system. <br /> <br />Reviewed by: <br />Director Public Works/Principal Engineer <br /> <br />Copies to: <br />City Administrator <br />Community Development Director <br /> <br />P&R: 09/14/06 <br /> <br />15 <br />