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Home My WebLink About2010 12-14 PRAAGENDA Brooklyn Center Parks and Recreation Commission Tuesday, December 14, 2010 7:00 p.m. Community Room #221, Brooklyn Center Community Center ______________________________________________________________________________ 1. Call to Order 7:00 p.m. 2. Roll Call 3. Approval of Agenda 4. Approval of Minutes- November 16, 2010 5. City Council Liaison Report New Business 6. * Three Rivers Park District- Twin Lakes Regional Trail Master Plan Old Business 7. 8. Set Next Meeting Date and Agenda January 18, 2011 9. Adjournment MINUTES OF THE PROCEEDINGS OF THE PARK AND RECREATION COMMISSION FOR THE CITY OF BROOKLYN CENTER IN THE COUNTY OF HENNEPIN AND THE STATE OF MINNESOTA REGULAR SESSION NOVEMBER 16, 2010 COMMUNITY ROOM #221, COMMUNITY CENTER CALL TO ORDER Chairperson Sorenson called the meeting to order at 7:01 p.m. ROLL CALL Chair Sorenson, Commissioners Russell, Shinnick and Starling were present. Commissioners Ebert, Lee and Peterson were absent and excused. Also present were City Council Liaison Mark Yelich and Community Activities, Recreation and Services Director Jim Glasoe. APPROVAL OF AGENDA By consensus, the agenda was approved as presented. APPROVAL OF MINUTES – October 19, 2010 There was a motion by Commissioner Russell, seconded by Commissioner Shinnick, to approve the minutes of the October 19, 2010, Park & Recreation Commission as presented. The motion was passed unanimously. COUNCIL LIAISON REPORT Councilmember Yelich reported that, at a recent City Council work session, the Council had reviewed all of the Enterprise budgets of the City, including the Liquor operations. Councilmember Yelich noted the liquor operations were well run and resulted in a yearly profit totaling almost a half million dollars. Councilmember Yelich noted that, of that amount, $135,000 had been allocated to the Capital Improvements Fund to help with funding improvements, including parks. Councilmember Yelich reported that Gatlin Companies (the group that is looking to redevelop the former Brookdale property) was going to be coming to the City to look for financial assistance, primarily Tax Increment Financing funding, for the project. Mr. Yelich noted that he was not in favor of the City subsidizing private development and would not be inclined to support a subsidy. COMMISSIONER TERM EXPIRATION CARS Director Glasoe reported that he had spoken with all of the Commissioners whose terms would be expiring and all had indicated a desire to be reappointed. Mr. Glasoe informed the Commission that he would notify the City Clerk accordingly. FIREHOUSE PARK-OPTIONS FOR BASKETBALL COURT RELOCATION th CARS Director Glasoe reported that, at their November 8, work session, the City Council had received a report from the Police Department related to the basketball court at Firehouse Park. Mr. Glasoe indicated the report showed only 11 calls for service since the reinstallation of the basketball hoop, with none being related to the basketball court. Mr. Glasoe added that, following the report, Councilmember Ryan had noted his recent conversations with the neighboring residents and their feeling that the problems with the basketball court had not been resolved. Councilmember Ryan asked that the issue be referred to the Park & Recreation Commission so that they might review the location of the basketball court and make some recommendations regarding possibilities for relocation of the courts. CARS Director Glasoe indicated that it was his intention to introduce this item at tonight’s meeting and reported that staff would be researching the issue and would bring back some options for the Commission to consider at an upcoming meeting. Mr. Glasoe continued by asking if there were specific items the Commission wanted staff to consider in its review. Commissioners responded that the costs associated with moving the court should be included. Mr. Glasoe added that, both Mayor Willson and Councilmember Yelich had noted the Commissions desire to have a full court available for play and referenced Councilmember Yelich’s statements regarding environmental design would be considered. After some discussion, Chair Sorenson directed that this item be placed on the February or March agenda for the Commission to consider options. TOBACCO-FREE YOUTH RECREATION Chair Sorenson indicated that this was a continuation of the discussion related to a non-smoking policy for parks. Chair Sorenson asked the Commissioners about their feelings related tobacco use in the parks. Commissioner Russell indicated he favors no smoking in the parks. Commissioners Starling and Shinnick indicated support of a non-smoking policy. CARS Director Glasoe reported that, in a phone message, Commissioner Ebert indicated that she was confident the rest of the Commission knew how she felt regarding the issue; that being she favors “free choice’ and would not favor restricting use. Chair Sorenson noted that, he had more questions since the last time the issue had been discussed. Noting that the City had a number of cooperative agreements with other entities regarding parks (School Districts, Little League, Three Rivers) he was wondering how their policies might impact this issue. He also indicated he had issues with a policy that could not be enforced. Commissioner Shinnick responded that all school districts are non-smoking for buildings and grounds and added the National Little League Program would welcome restricting tobacco use. Chair Sorenson asked if anyone knew the Three Rivers Park District stand on the issue. CARS Director Glasoe indicated that he would research the issue and report back to the Commission. After additional discussion, the consensus of the Commission was to direct CARS Director Glasoe to solicit sample polices from the Tobacco Free Youth Recreation staff that restricted tobacco, but was not tied to an Ordinance. Chair Sorenson asked that this item be placed on the January 20111 agenda for further consideration. HENNEPIN COUNTY YOUTH SPORTS APPLICATION CARS Director Glasoe reported that, after a discussion with City Manager Boganey, a decision had been made to only submit a joint application for a youth sports gymnasium with the Brooklyn Center School District and that he would wait until the Spring 2011 application cycle to look for assistance related to a soccer field project at Central Park. SET NEXT MEETING DATE By consensus, the next meeting of the Parks and Recreation Commission was set for December 14, 2010, at 7:00 p.m. in Community Room #221 of the Brooklyn Center Community Center. MEETING ADJOURNED Commissioner Russell made a motion, seconded by Commissioner Shinnick, to adjourn the meeting at 7:52 p.m. The motion passed unanimously. Twin Lakes Regional Trail master plan Month Day, Year DRAFT December 6,2010 mission the of Three Rivers Park District is to promote environmental stewardship through recreation and education in a natural resources-based park system. Three Rivers Park District was established in 1957 after legislation was enacted in 1955 allowing for the activation of park districts whose primary duties are “acquisition, development and maintenance of large parks, wildlife sanctuaries, forest and other reservations, and means for public access to historic sites and to lakes, rivers and streams and to other natural phenomena” (Minnesota State Statutes, Chapter 398.07). Three Rivers Park District serves more than 7 million visitors each year with over 26,500 acres of park reserves, regional parks and special-use areas in Hennepin and six adjoining counties and 100 miles of regional trails. Current outdoor-recreation activities in regional parks and trails include camping, hiking, cross-country and downhill skiing, tubing, bicycling, in-line skating, horseback riding, nature interpretation, golfing, fishing and swimming. Three Rivers Park District also operates a natural resources management program, which administers the restoration and perpetuation of both native wildlife and plants in order to provide opportunities for high-quality recreational experience for park visitors. Board of Commissioners Staff Sara WyattCris Gears, Superintendent, Long Lake (District 1)and Secretary to the Board Marilynn CorcoranThomas K. McDowell, Associate Superintendent, Dayton (District 2)Division of Recreation and Education Mark HaggertyMargaret A. Dahlofe, Associate Superintendent, New Hope (District 3)Division of Parks and Natural Resources Dale Woodbeck, Vice ChairBoe R. Carlson, Associate Superintendent, Shorewood (District 4)Division of Administration Rosemary FranzeseHoward D. Koolick, Director of Finance, St. Anthony (District 5)Chief Financial Officer Larry Blackstad, ChairDonald J. DeVeau, Director, Hennepin County AppointeePlanning and Development Minnetonka Barbara Kinsey Hennepin County Appointee Brooklyn Park II Three Rivers Park District Draft December 6, 2010 Acknowledgements Three Rivers Park District gratefully acknowledges the community members and other Task Force participants who contributed to content of the Twin Lakes Regional Trail Master Plan. The Park District extends a special thank you to the individuals listed below who provided guidance, time, questions, and critical insight throughout the process. Task Force Members Gary Eitel, City of Brooklyn Center Steve Lillehaug, City of Brooklyn Center Richard McCoy, City of Robbinsdale Rick Pearson, City of Robbinsdale Don Pflaum, City of Minneapolis Jessica Galatz, Hennepin County Regional Rail Authority Bob Byers, Hennepin County Transportation Department Patricia Fitzgerald, Hennepin County Housing, Community Works and Transit April Crockett, Mn/DOT Jennifer Ringold, Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board Three Rivers Park District Staff Don Deveau, Director of Planning and Development Kelly Grissman, Senior Planning Manager Del Miller, Intergovernmental Relations Manager Annie Rexine, Planner (Project Manager) Draft December 6, 2010Twin Lakes Regional Trail Master Plan III This page left intentionally blank IV Three Rivers Park DistrictDraft December 6, 2010 Executive Summary The Twin Lakes Regional Trail will fill a gap in the multimodal transportation system with a safe, accessible and enjoyable non-motorized transportation option. It will expand non-motorized commuting and recreational access to vital employment, retail and recreational sites in the metropolitan region by improving safety, economic development, mobility and environmental benefits. The development of the Twin Lakes Regional Trail is an outgrowth of the previous First Tier Trails, Greenways, and Parks Master Plan (2000), prepared by Three Rivers Park District. The First Tier Trails, Greenways and Parks Master Plan (Three Rivers Park District, 2000) analyzed the possibility of trail corridors within the ten cities that make up the “first- tier” ring of suburbs that border the northern, southern and western Minneapolis city limits. These trail corridors, including the Twin Lakes Regional Trail, were developed based on recreation and transportation goals which are intended to provide value and linkages, balance recreation and natural resources, ensure safety and provide effective design to currently under-served communities. The cities of Robbinsdale and Brooklyn Center comprise a portion of the “¿ rst-tier” suburban ring. Currently, first-tier suburban residents have limited access to regional trail systems. Specifically, the fully-developed cities of Brooklyn Center and Robbinsdale along the Twin Lakes Regional Trail have few opportunities to significantly expand their trail system in the future. This proposed regional trail provides the communities direct access to a regional trail and park system with connections to the Mississippi River. Use of Three Rivers Park District regional trails has steadily increased over the last 10 years and is expected to continue to increase. There were 706,200 visits to the five regional trails open in 1999. For the entire Three Rivers Park District network of regional trails, the Council estimates that in 2009 there were over 2,700,000 visits.The proposed Twin Lakes Regional Trail is projected to initially generate 125,000 annual visits. The proposed trail is not expected to be a recreational destination trail for non-local residents, but rather is anticipated to be primarily used by local residents for recreation and access to local services and destinations. In 2009, the Park District entered into a Trailway Cooperative Agreement with Brooklyn Center by which the City conveyed a continuous and contiguous trail easement to the Park District for the trail. Through this agreement,the Park District assumed responsibility for trail operations, maintenance, reconstruction, and capital expenses of the existing trail section and future extension. Draft December 6, 2010Twin Lakes Regional Trail Master Plan V A Twin Lakes Regional Trail Task Force was established that guided the trail master plan and coordinated planning efforts within local communities and greater region. Members of the Task Force included representatives from the following affected stakeholders: City of Brooklyn Center, City of Robbinsdale, City of Minneapolis, Hennepin County Regional Rail Authority, Hennepin County Transportation Department, , Minnesota Department of Transportation (Mn/DOT), and Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board. The Park District held two public open houses where the general public reviewed the status of preliminary Task Force planning and provided comment. The first open house was held on September 16, 2010, and the second open house was held November 9, 2010, both at the Hennepin County Brookdale Library.In December 2010 and January 2011,Park District staff presented the selected alignment to the Robbinsdale and Brooklyn Center City Councils and Park Boards for comment. Each of those decision-making bodies indicated support for the project. The Twin Lakes Regional Trail route originates at the southern end of the Twin Lakes within Robbinsdale in the southeast quadrant of the Trunk Highway (TH) 100 and Bottineau Boulevard (CSAH 81) interchange. The trail then generally follows a route extending north and east through Brooklyn Center to the eastern terminus at North Mississippi Regional Park on the Mississippi River. The trail route is predominantly located within existing street right-of-way, and segments of the trail vary from constructed, under construction, or in planning stages. For those trail segments that are unconstructed, input was gathered to provide direction for a recommended trail alignment. It is anticipated that the Twin Lakes Regional Trail will be improved in stages, with the construction of various stages driven by local factors such as availability of land, timing of adjacent roadway improvements, and public desire to expand the existing recreational trail system, and financing. VI Three Rivers Park DistrictDraft December 6, 2010 Table of Contents Page Section IPlanning Framework.............................................1 Overview........................................................................................... Metropolitan Regional Parks System.................................................. Three Rivers Park District.................................................................. Relationship to Other Plans............................................................... Involved Public Agencies................................................................... District-Wide Planning Guidelines...................................................... Section IITrail Description & Background.............................7 Location & Contextual Relationship.................................................... Landscape Description...................................................................... Trail History....................................................................................... Guiding Principles............................................................................. Acquisition Status.............................................................................. Section IIIPublic Process......................................................13 Twin Lakes Regional Trail Task Force................................................. Public Presentations and Open Houses.............................................. Evaluation & Findings........................................................................ Plan Review & Formal Approval Process............................................. Section IVDemand Forecast..................................................17 Overview.......................................................................................... Demographics................................................................................... Recreational Use Trends................................................................... Existing Three Rivers Park District User Data.................................... Trail Service Area and Projected Trail Use......................................... Special Needs................................................................................... Section VResource Assessment & Management....................39 Natural Resource Inventory............................................................... Natural Resource Management.......................................................... Cultural Resource Inventory.............................................................. Cultural Resource Management......................................................... Draft December 6, 2010Twin Lakes Regional Trail Master Plan VII Section VIDevelopment Concept...........................................49 Development Plan............................................................................. Selected Trail Alignment................................................................... Corridor Width and Public Services.................................................... Primary Trail Design Elements........................................................... Supporting Trail Elements.................................................................. Typical Trail Cross Sections............................................................... Section VIIOperations & Maintenance Plan ............................67 Regulations & Ordinances.................................................................. Operations - Public Safety.................................................................. Operations - Maintenance.................................................................. Proposed Maintenance Activities........................................................ Public Awareness............................................................................... Section VIIIEstimated Costs & Funding....................................73 Boundaries & Acquisition Costs......................................................... Development Costs........................................................................... Operating Costs................................................................................ Funding Sources................................................................................ Other Revenue.................................................................................. Appendix AResolutions of Support ........................................77 Appendix BTrail Plans............................................................79 Appendix CWetland Descriptions............................................93 Appendix EDetailed Cost Estimate..........................................95 VIII Three Rivers Park DistrictDraft December 6, 2010 List of Figures Figure 1 Metropolitan Regional Parks System Map [TRPD Update]...................... 2 Figure 2 Three Rivers Park District Regional Trail System Status Map................. 4 Figure 3 Regional Trail Location Map................................................................... 7 Figure 4 First Tier Trails, Greenways, and Parks Plan (2000)............................... 18 Preferred Scheme Figures 5a/b Population Graphs through 2030........................................................... 19 Figures 6a/b Number of Households Graphs through 2030........................................ 20 Figures 7a/b/c Household Descriptions Graphs............................................................. 21 Figures 8a/b/c Age Distribution Graphs........................................................................ 22 Figure 9 Household Income Graph...................................................................... 23 Education Attainment Graphs............................................................... 24 Figure 11 2030 Regional Parks Policy Plan............................................................ 28 All Recommended Additions and Changes Figure 12 Core and Primary Trail Area Map........................................................... 35 Figure 13 Minnesota Land Cover Classification System Map.................................. 39 Figure 14 Watershed Boundaries Map................................................................... 43 Figure 15 Preferred Typical Trail Section............................................................... 51 Figure 16 Selected Regional Trail Alignment Map.................................................. 53 Figure 17 Existing Regional Trail Conditions Assessment Map............................... 58 Figure 18 Option A - 57th Avenue Potential Cross Section.................................... 65 (Logan Avenue to Dupont Avenue/60’ ROW) Figure 19 Option B - 57th Avenue Potential Cross Section.................................... 65 (Logan Avenue to Dupont Avenue/60’ ROW) Figure 20 Option C - 57th Avenue Potential Cross Section.................................... 65 (Logan Avenue to Dupont Avenue/60’ ROW) Figure 21 Option A - 57th Avenue Potential Cross Section.................................... 66 (Dupont Avenue to I-94/50’ ROW) Figure 22 Option B - 57th Avenue Potential Cross Section.................................... 66 (Dupont Avenue to I-94/50’ ROW) Figure 23 Option C - 57th Avenue Potential Cross Section.................................... 66 (Dupont Avenue to I-94/50’ ROW) Draft December 6, 2010Twin Lakes Regional Trail Master Plan IX List of Tables Table 1 Statewide Population Trends for Trail Based Activities...................................... 26 Table 2 Statewide Trail Acitivities Ranked by Hours of Participation.............................. 26 Table 3 Household Description (TRPD Trail Users)........................................................ 30 Table 4 Age (TRPD Trail Users)..................................................................................... 31 Table 5 Annual Household Income (TRPD Trail Users).................................................. 31 Table 6 Highest Level of Education Completed (TRPD Trail Users)................................ 32 Table 7 Gender (TRPD Trail Users)............................................................................... 32 Table 8 Race (TRPD Trail Users)................................................................................... 33 Table 9 Table 10 Twin Lakes Regional Trail Expected Use Distribution by Activity....................... 35 Table 11 Average Seasonal Use Distribution (TRPD Trail Users)...................................... 35 Table 12 Primary Activity (TRPD Trail Users).................................................................. 36 Table 13 Primary Use (TRPD Trail Users)........................................................................ 36 Table 14 Rare, Endangered and Threatened Species Occurrences Documented............. 40 Near the Twin Lakes Regional Trai Table 15 Summary of Mapped Soils Near the Twin Lakes Regional Trail.......................... 44 Table 16 Existing Trail Segments Analysis and Future Reconfiguration Options.............. 59 Table 17 57th Avenue Roadway Cross Section Comparison Matrix............................... 64 X Three Rivers Park DistrictDraft December 6, 2010 Section I | Planning Framework Planning Framework Overview The Twin Lakes Regional Trail will fill a gap in the multi-modal transportation system with a safe, accessible and enjoyable non-motorized transportation option. Currently, metro area residents traveling to and through the first tier suburbs do not have access to safe, convenient and attractive off-road regional trail networks that support bicycle and pedestrian mobility, and connect with existing and planned transit facilities. The Twin Lakes Regional Trail will expand non-motorized commuting and recreational access to vital employment, retail and recreational sites in the metropolitan region by improving safety, economic development, mobility and environmental benefits. By providing this new surface transportation option, the Twin Lakes Regional Trail may help reduce congestion and increase non- motorized transportation efficiency. When completed, the trail will measure approximately 4.4miles from Crystal Lake Regional Trail in the City of Robbinsdale through Brooklyn Center, connecting to Shingle Creek Regional Trail and terminating at North Mississippi Regional Park. Metropolitan Regional Parks System The Twin Cities’ nationally renowned Metropolitan Regional Parks System significantly contributes to the area’s high quality of life. Establishing green space for recreation and resource protection enhances the region’s livability and economic strength. This section of the Master Plan provides background on the Metropolitan Regional Parks System and Three Rivers Park District, and the guiding principles used by Three Rivers Park District in planning and managing parks and trails. The Metropolitan Regional Parks System includes 47 regional parks and park reserves, 22 trails, and six special recreation areas and is still growing. Currently, there are 52,000 acres of protected lands, with planned acquisition of an additional 18,000 acres over the next 25 years. The Metropolitan Regional Parks System is made up of 10 park implementing agencies, consisting of six county park departments, three city park departments and Three Rivers Park District. The Metropolitan Council (Council) is a regional planning agency that oversees and provides partial funding of the regional parks system. The Council works with implementing agencies to assist in the acquisition and development of regional parks and trails to provide outdoor recreation for public enjoyment and natural resources protection. The Council and implementing agencies also develop regional park policies to protect Draft December 6, 2010Twin Lakes Regional Trail Master Plan 1 Section I | Planning Framework the region’s water quality, promote best management practices, and help integrate the parks system with housing, transportation and other regional priorities. The Metropolitan Council also provides guidance in the development of master plans for units of the regional parks and trail system. The Twin Lakes Regional Trail Master Plan reflects that guidance. Each regional park or trail must have a master plan approved by the Council prior to receiving any acquisition, development or operational funding from the Council. The master plan must address a series of topics, including boundaries and acquisition, recreation demand forecasts, natural resources management, development concept, implementation schedule, and development and operational cost estimates. Public input is encouraged throughout the master planning process. The Council’s planning requirements help ensure consistency between the implementing agencies and the Council’s own regional plans. Twin Lakes Anoka Regional Trail Proposed Corridor Washington Hennepin Ramsey Carver Scott Dakota Figure 1 Metropolitan Regional Parks System Map (The dark green areas denote parks and trails of the Metropolitan Regional Parks System owned and operated by Three Rivers Park District. The Twin Lakes Regional Trail is shown in red.) 2 Three Rivers Park DistrictDraft December 6, 2010 Section I | Planning Framework Three Rivers Park District Three Rivers Park District (Park District) is an independent, special park district charged with the responsibilities of acquisition, development and maintenance of regional park reserves, regional parks, regional special recreation features and regional trails for the benefit and use of the citizens of suburban Hennepin County, the seven-county Twin Cities metropolitan area and the State of Minnesota. The Park District works cooperatively with the Metropolitan Parks and Open Space Commission, the Metropolitan Council and the State Legislature as 1 of 10 implementing agencies of the Metropolitan Regional Parks System. The Park District mission is to promote environmental stewardship through recreation and education in a natural resources-based park system. The Park District was established in 1957 by the Minnesota State Legislature when prominent members of the community promoted the benefits of parks in the outlying areas of Hennepin County. Three Rivers Park District’s first park, Baker Park Reserve, was created when Morris T. Baker donated 210 acres of land, including a large section of shoreline on Lake Independence. Today, the Park District owns and manages approximately 26,500 acres of regional park reserves, regional parks, and regional special recreation features, and over 200 miles of combined paved and unpaved trails through the parks and along regional trail corridors. Relationship to Other Plans In 2000, the Park District conducted a study (First Tier Trails, Greenways and Parks Master Plan) analyzing the possibility of trail corridors within the ten cities that make up the “first-tier” ring of suburbs that border the northern, southern and western Minneapolis city limits. These trail corridors were developed based on recreation and transportation goals that are intended to provide value and linkages, balance recreation and natural resources, ensure safety and provide effective design. The Park District developed this regional trail master plan for Twin Lakes Regional Trail as part of the 2030 Regional Parks Policy Plan requirement by Metropolitan Council. The purpose of this trail master plan is to identify and capitalize on potential opportunities for new regional trail facilities where, unfortunately, few such facilities currently exist. The implementation of this trail corridor comes at an opportune time, by corresponding with other future redevelopment plans and infrastructure improvements within the first tier suburbs. Involved Public Agencies The public agencies involved with the master plan process for the Twin Lakes Regional Trail include: Three Rivers Park District, which is Draft December 6, 2010Twin Lakes Regional Trail Master Plan 3 Section I | Planning Framework Existing Regional Trail System andProposed Re Regional Trail System Status Twin Lakes Regional Trail Existing Under Construction Current Planning Future Planning Crow River Twin Lakes Regional Trail Regional Trail Rogers Hassan Dayton Elm Creek Rush Creek Township Crow-Hassan Park Reserve Park Reserve Regional Trail Champlin Coon Rapids Dam Regional Lake Independence Park Regional Trail Maple Grove Osseo Brooklyn Corcoran Park Greenfield Crystal Lake Shingle Creek Medicine Lake Regional Trail Regional Trail Regional Trail Fish Lake Regional Park Brooklyn Center Lake Rebecca Park ReserveEagle Lake Regional Park Silverwood New Park Sarah Creek Hope Crystal Medina Clifton E. French Regional Trail Plymouth Twin Lakes Regional Park Robbinsdale Independence Luce Line Regional Trail Regional Trail Baker Park Reserve Diagonal Golden Regional Trail Valley Orono Bassett Creek Regional Trail Wayzata North Cedar Lake Regional Trail Noerenberg Gardens Minnetrista Minnetonka Woodland Gale Woods St. Louis Special Recreation Park Deephaven Feature Hopkins Cedar Lake LRT Regional Trail Dakota Rail Tonka Bay Regional TrailNine Mile Creek Greenwood Regional Trail Glen Lake Golf Edina Shorewood& Practice Center Carver Park Minneapolis/ Bryant Lake Reserve St. Paul Regional Park Richfield Airport Lake Minnetonka LRT Eden Regional Trail Prairie Bloomington Minnesota River Bluffs LRT Regional Trail Hyland-Bush-Anderson Intercity Lakes Park Reserve Regional Trail 01234 Miles ExistingRegionalTrailSystemandProposedRegionalTrailopportunties Figure 2 Three Rivers Park District System Regional Trail System Status Map responsible for construction, operation and management of the trail; the two host cities adjacent to the corridor - Robbinsdale and Brooklyn Center; Hennepin County Regional Rail Authority; Hennepin County Transportation Department; Hennepin County Housing, Community Works and Transit; Metropolitan Council; Minnesota Department of Transportation (Mn/DOT); City of Minneapolis; and Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board. District-Wide Planning Guidelines Three Rivers Park District manages its lands under four categories of regional open space: regional park reserves, regional parks, regional trail corridors and regional special recreation features. Regional Park Reserves Regional park reserves provide and protect representative areas of major landscape types found in the metropolitan area for the purposes of conservation, and outdoor recreation and to perpetuate appreciation and enjoyment by the public. The minimum size is 1,000 acres, with a 4 Three Rivers Park DistrictDraft December 6, 2010 Section I | Planning Framework desirable size of 2,000 acres or more. As a legacy to future generations and to establish and maintain an uncompromising sense of nature, 80 percent of each regional park reserve’s land base shall be restored to and retained in a natural state as a viable entity, permitting up to 20 percent to be developed for compatible active-recreation use. Three Rivers Park District owns and operates nearly 22,800 acres within seven regional park reserves. Regional Parks Regional parks provide a diversity of resources, contiguous to or including water resources, which can accommodate a wide variety of compatible outdoor-recreation uses. The minimum site size is 100 acres, with a preferable site size of 200 or more acres. Three Rivers Park District develops active-recreation areas in regional parks in a manner that maintains sufficient natural areas to ensure quality outdoor-recreation experiences in a natural resources setting. Three Rivers Park District owns and operates over 3,000 acres within 10 regional parks. Regional Trail Corridors Regional trail corridors provide for recreational trail activities on linear resources. They perform a recreational-transportation function, provide access to regional parks and park reserves, and may be located along either natural or built features. To be recognized by the Council or Three Rivers Park District, regional trails must serve a linking or destination function. In addition to recreational function, linking trails provide the backbone of the regional trail network by connecting regional parks to one another. Destination regional trails are routed and developed to provide opportunities for high-quality recreation experiences that traverse significant natural resource areas. However, destination trails also may be a component of the linking network. For either trail type, adjacent land with significant natural resources can be acquired as part of the trail corridor. Three Rivers Park District currently operates 100 miles of regional trails with a planned system total of 190 miles. Regional Special Recreation Features Regional special recreation features support participation in needed regional recreational opportunities that have a limited and specific purpose and are not found in regional park reserves and regional parks, or along regional trail corridors. Public demand, public support, financial feasibility, county-wide or regional significance, and the inherent recreational or cultural benefits are considered before designation. Three Rivers Park District currently owns and operates three regional special recreation features. Draft December 6, 2010Twin Lakes Regional Trail Master Plan 5 Section I | Planning Framework This page left intentionally blank 6 Three Rivers Park DistrictDraft December 6, 2010 Section II | Trail Description & Background Trail Description & Background Location & Contextual Relationship The Twin Lakes Regional Trail provides local and regional residents with access to downtown Robbinsdale, the Brookdale Mall shopping area, Brooklyn Center Transit Center (on Bass Lake Road), Brooklyn Center City Hall and the Hennepin County Brookdale Library (via the Shingle Creek Regional Trail), a local elementary school, North Mississippi Regional Park and connections to the larger regional trail system primarily through Shingle Creek Regional Trail, North Mississippi Regional Trail, Minneapolis Grand Rounds, and the planned Crystal Lake Regional Trail. It originates at the southern end of the Twin Lakes within Robbinsdale in the southeast quadrant of the Trunk Highway (TH) 100 and Bottineau Boulevard (CSAH 81) interchange where it will connect with the planned Crystal Lake Regional Trail. The proposed trail then generally follows a route extending north and east through Brooklyn Center to the eastern terminus at North Mississippi Regional Park on the Mississippi River. See Section VI Development Concept for a more detailed description of the regional trail route. ÞÎÑÑÕÔÇÒ ÐßÎÕ á@ßà ÚÎ×ÜÔÛÇ áàßb ÞÎÑÑÕÔÇÒ ÝÛÒÌÛÎ ÿü¾þ ¸ûøú ÌÉ×Ò ÔßÕÛÍ Ò±®¬¸ ÎÛÙ×ÑÒßÔ Ó···°°· Î»¹·±²¿´ ÌÎß×Ô Ð¿®µ ÷§ Ì©·² Ô¿µ» áàß& ÝÑÔËÓÞ×ß ØÛ×ÙØÌÍ ÝÎÇÍÌßÔ ÒÛÉ ØÑÐÛ ÎÑÞÞ×ÒÍÜßÔÛ ÿü¾þ Ó×ÒÒÛßÐÑÔ×Í Î»¹·±²¿´ Ì®¿·´ ðïî Ó·´» ÙÑÔÜÛÒ ÊßÔÔÛÇ Ì¸»±¼±®» É·®¬¸ Î»¹·±²¿´ Ð¿®µ Figure 3 Regional Trail Location Map Draft December 6, 2010Twin Lakes Regional Trail Master Plan 7 Section II | Trail Description & Background Landscape Description The cities of Robbinsdale and Brooklyn Center comprise a portion of the “¿ rst-tier” suburban ring around the City of Minneapolis. The area is characterized predominantly by rectangular block residential development patterns consisting primarily of single family homes established in the post- World War II period with some multi-family residential. The area also was shaped by the expansion of the state highway system, and development of the Brookdale Mall regional shopping center in the latter half of the twentieth century. Currently, Brookdale Mall is under consideration for redevelopment. Surrounding Brookdale is Brooklyn Center’s primary commercial core area, consisting of service, retail, and light industrial uses. Much of the commercial land use pattern and primary infrastructure is auto-oriented - and frequently poses a barrier to non-motorized circulation to regional destinations and between neighborhoods. The Twin Lakes Regional Trail provides a viable non-motorized route through this developed area, expanding transportation options and providing access to regional recreation destinations. The western terminus of the regional trail route is in the southeast quadrant of TH 100 and Bottineau Boulevard (CSAH 81) near the Twin Lakes chain in Robbinsdale. North Mississippi Regional Park at the eastern terminus of the regional trail route. 8 Three Rivers Park DistrictDraft December 6, 2010 Section II | Trail Description & Background Aerial view of the Brookdale Mall and surroundings looking northwest. Trail History Regional Trail Planning The development of the Twin Lakes Regional Trail is an outgrowth of the previous First Tier Trails, Greenways, and Parks Master Plan (2000), by Three Rivers Park District, in response to expressed demand for recreational and non-motorized transportation options in first-tier suburban ring communities and became part of the 2030 planning framework subsequently developed by the Metropolitan Council. Portions of the proposed Twin Lakes Regional Trail route have already been constructed by Brooklyn Center and other agencies recently as part of local and state road improvement projects in the section extending from the Twin Lakes, past Brookdale Mall, to TH 100. Mn/DOT also reconstructed TH100 in this area within approximately the past ten years including the pedestrian tunnel crossings near Bottineau Boulevard. Trailway Cooperative Agreement As a precursor to further Twin Lakes Regional Trail planning and to establish the legal and operational underpinning of the trail, the Park District entered into a Trailway Cooperative Agreement with Brooklyn Center in 2009 by which the City conveyed a continuous and contiguous trail easement to the Park District for the both the existing portion and future extension, or will acquire such rights to additional lands as may be necessary. Through this previous agreement,the Park District assumed responsibility for trail operations, maintenance, reconstruction, and capital expenses of the existing trail section and future extension. The agreement also included transfer of the Shingle Creek Regional Trail from Brooklyn Center to Three Rivers Park District. Draft December 6, 2010Twin Lakes Regional Trail Master Plan 9 Section II | Trail Description & Background A trail by nature is a linear feature that not only passes through its surroundings, but becomes part of the community fabric. In this developed suburban context, the existing land uses and infrastructure that the design of the trail must navigate are complex. The Guiding Principles developed in conjunction with the Task Force and Three Rivers Park District provide a general basis for evaluating the trail route. With that philosophical underpinning, the Task Force’s charge was two-fold: confirm the selected alignment and consider alternate routes to fill the identified gaps in the trail route continuity. • with Provide connectivity established points and destinations • with most Provide continuity direct route (no gaps) • with least Provide safe route amount of driveway crossings, utility poles, etc. •Minimize private property impacts •Consistent with existing agency planning and policies • within Create sense of place space available •Exemplify good stewardship towards existing infrastructure Acquisition Status The Twin Lakes Regional Trail route is predominantly located within ex- isting street right-of-way of adjacent jurisdictions. Select portions of the existing trail segments do not meet the Park Distict’s design standards, and it is the District’s intent to acquire easements as needed to bring the trail into compliance when adjacent roadways require reconstruction. Also, since the corridor passes through a fully-developed area, the imple- mentation of new trail segments may conflict with existing roadway curb limits, landscape features, or utilities. As a general guideline, Three Rivers Park District will attempt to work within the established right-of-way, but in some instances, acquisition of additional land area may be necessary. Design solutions will be analyzed that minimize private property impacts. The City of Brooklyn Center will provide coordination with adjacent property owners. 10 Three Rivers Park DistrictDraft December 6, 2010 Section II | Trail Description & Background Three Rivers Park District will also coordinate with other potentially af- fected agencies including the City of Robbinsdale, Hennepin County, and Mn/DOT as required. The Three Rivers Park District regional trail acquisition process is a “will- ing-seller” approach. This means acquisition occurs when land owners plan to sell or are considering development of their property. A large factor in this method of acquisition is the timing of development. As de- velopment occurs in a given area, owners may consider the possibility of selling as the land near them is sold and developed. In turn, it is difficult to determine when acquisition will occur and when the trail construction will begin. It is important to obtain an inventory of trail parcels recommended for acquisition and to maintain good relationships with property owners. This acquisition method allows Three Rivers Park District to maintain com- munication with land owners when sales are contemplated. The local mu- nicipality also has an important role, as developers often contact the municipalities about zoning and other development issues. With the mu- nicipality as a knowledgeable proponents, the inclusion of the regional trail in land development is more assured. Three Rivers Park District, the municipality and developers work together to formulate a development plan that includes a provision for the trail. Municipality approval of all land purchases and use of eminent domain is required. This successful strategy is commonly used by Three Rivers Park District when acquiring regional trail land. Draft December 6, 2010Twin Lakes Regional Trail Master Plan 11 Section II | Trail Description & Background •Routing of the trail to utilize portions of the property with marginal development potential. This could include land adjacent to wetland or flood fringes. •Acquire easements for the trail that may allow the owner/devel- oper to count some or all of the acreage toward development den- sities. •Work with the City and owner/developer to secure park dedication lands for the trail in advance of the actual development. •Acquisition of the entire property/parcel, with the intent to resell the property subject to easements for the trail. •Acquisition of the development rights to the property. The areas of development would then be negotiated with the developer. •Donation of a portion of the property for a trail corridor. 12 Three Rivers Park DistrictDraft December 6, 2010 Section III | Public Process Public Process The Park District established a planning process that included represen- tatives from all affected municipalities, public agencies, and the general public in the master planning effort to provide opportunities to be heard and contribute to the plan outcome. Twin Lakes Regional Trail Task Force A Twin Lakes Regional Trail Task Force was established that guided the trail master plan and coordinated planning efforts within local communi- ties and greater region. Members of the Task Force included representa- tives from the following affected stakeholders: City of Brooklyn Center, City of Robbinsdale, City of Minneapolis, Hennepin County Regional Rail Authority, Hennepin County Transportation Department, , Minnesota Department of Trans- portation (Mn/DOT), and Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board. The responsibilities of the Task Force included: •Coordination with respective governing bodies such as City Councils, Planning Commissions, Park Commissions and other staff/departments within the respective city/agency. •Assistance in implementing public participation opportunities. •Providing information and support necessary to identify feasible trail alignments and review/complete the trail master plan which meets Park District, city and other applicable agency goals. •Assisting Park District in local municipality/agency approval processes. The Task Force met four times throughout the planning process: •July 20, 2010 •August 26, 2010 •October 7, 2010 •December 9, 2010 Public Presentations and Open Houses The Park District held two public open houses where the general pub- lic reviewed the status of preliminary Task Force planning and provided comment. The first open house was held on September 16, 2010, and Draft December 6, 2010Twin Lakes Regional Trail Master Plan 13 Section III | Public Process the second open house was held November 9, 2010, both at the Hen- nepin County Brookdale Library.In December 2010 and January 2011, Park District staff presented the selected alignment to the Robbinsdale and Brooklyn Center City Councils and Park Boards for comment. Each of those decision-making bodies indicated support for the selected align- ment. Evaluation & Findings Segments of the Twin Lakes Regional Trail vary from constructed, under construction, or in planning stages. For those trail segments that are unconstructed, input was gathered to provide direction for a recommended trail alignment. Regional trail alternative alignments for unconstructed segments included a utility corridor adjacent to 57th Avenue, 57th Avenue and 53rd Avenue between TH100 and North Mississippi Regional Park. Ultimately, the 57th Avenue alignment was determined to be the selected alignment. With input from two public open houses, the project Task Force identified a number of specific opportunities that made the 57th Avenue selected alignment stand out from other routes considered. Nevertheless, several key constraints will require challenging solutions during implementation. The primary opportunities and constraints of the 57th Avenue alignment are summarized below. Selected Alignment Opportunities •Trail route consistent with Hennepin County’s bike plans •Brooklyn Center’s Comprehensive Plan shows route as a future on-street bikeway •Crosses roadway at intersections (as opposed to mid-block crossings) •Does not cross I-94 freeway on/off ramps •Opportunity to upgrade the streetscape •Placing the trail on 57th Avenue provides the most direct trail connection to the Mississippi River •(Mn/DOT is planning to re-deck the Bass Lake Road/57th Avenue bridge over TH100 in 2013. Preliminary conversations between the Park District, Brooklyn Center, Hennepin County, and Mn/DOT indicate that it may be feasible to include the regional trail on the bridge as part of the re-decking project. The parties will continue to collaborate throughout the bridge decking design process.) 14 Three Rivers Park DistrictDraft December 6, 2010 Section III | Public Process Selected Alignment Constraints •Requires road narrowing and loss of parking in some locations • until the Bass Lake Road/57th Avenue Creates a circuitous route, bridge is re-decked which results in the use of the existing Shingle Creek Regional Trail bridge. •Requires recon¿ guration of the 57th Avenue bridge over I-94 to accommodate the trail •Located adjacent to a busy street •Crosses 14 residential driveways, 1 commercial driveway and 1 alley Plan Review & Formal Approval Process Copies of the draft Master Plan were distributed to the affected agencies for review and comment. Three Rivers Park District will use its E-lert e-mail network along with news releases to inform the interested public of the opportunity to review and comment on the Master Plan. The Master Plan will be made available through Three Rivers Park District’s website (www.ThreeRiversParkDistrict.org), and the website will include an on-line survey and feedback form. The public review period will last for two weeks, after which Three Rivers Park District staff will assess feedback to identify any appropriate changes to the Master Plan. After receiving comments by affected agencies, Three Rivers Park District Board of Commissioners released the draft Twin Lakes Regional Trail Master Plan for review by the public and affected governmental bodies. Given the signi¿ cant amount of public input and community review used to develop the Master Plan, Three Rivers Park District does not anticipate any signi¿ cant concerns or changes to the Master Plan. However, if signi¿ cant revisions are suggested, Three Rivers Park District staff and the project team will recommend to the Three Rivers Park District Board of Commissioners that they will be incorporated into the ¿ nal Master Plan, as appropriate, prior to submittal to the Metropolitan Council. Draft December 6, 2010Twin Lakes Regional Trail Master Plan 15 Section III | Public Process This page left intentionally blank 16 Three Rivers Park DistrictDraft December 6, 2010 Section IV | Demand Forecast Demand Forecast Overview The First Tier Trails, Greenways and Parks Master Plan (Three Rivers Park District, 2000) analyzed the possibility of trail corridors within the ten cities that make up the “first-tier” ring of suburbs that border the northern, southern and western Minneapolis city limits. These trail corridors, including the Twin Lakes Regional Trail, were developed based on recreation and transportation goals which are intended to provide value and linkages, balance recreation and natural resources, ensure safety and provide effective design to currently under-served communities. As proposed in this Master Plan, the Twin Lakes Regional Trail will provide regional trail service from Crystal Lake Regional Trail in the City of Robbinsdale through Brooklyn Center, connecting to Shingle Creek Regional Trail and terminating at North Mississippi Regional Park. The Metropolitan Council identifies two types of regional trails: Destination regional trail A destination regional trail is a destination itself, providing opportunity for high-quality recreation experiences that traverses significant natural resource areas where the trail tread way will have no adverse impact on the natural resource base. Linking regional trail A linking regional trail links two or more units of the regional recreation open space system. The proposed Twin Lakes Regional Trail serves as a linking regional trail. Draft December 6, 2010Twin Lakes Regional Trail Master Plan 17 Section IV | Demand Forecast Figure 4 First Tier Trails, Greenways, and Parks Plan (2000) Preferred Scheme 18 Three Rivers Park DistrictDraft December 6, 2010 Section IV | Demand Forecast Demographics Metropolitan Growth Projections The Metropolitan Council is responsible for tracking and forecasting population growth within the seven-county Twin Cities Metropolitan Area. The Council estimates that as of 2009, there were 2.88 million people living within the seven-county area. The regional population is expected to increase to 3.61 million by 2030 - a 25 percent increase from 2009. Population The graphs below illustrate the historical and projected population growth trends in the communities in the trail service area. ïìôððð ïîôððð ïðôððð èôððð Þ®±±µ´§² Ý»²¬»® Ý®§¬¿´ êôððð Î±¾¾·²¼¿´» ìôððð îôððð ó ïçéðïçèðïççðîðððîððçîðïðîðîðîðíð Figure 5a Population Growth in Brooklyn Center, Crystal, and Robbinsdale Graph (1970-2030) Ó·²²»¿°±´· ïçëôððð ïçðôððð ïèëôððð ïèðôððð ïéëôððð ïéðôððð Ó·²²»¿°±´· ïêëôððð ïêðôððð ïëëôððð ïëðôððð ïìëôððð ïçéðïçèðïççðîðððîððçîðïðîðîðîðíð Figure 5b Population Growth in Minneapolis Graph (1970-2030) Draft December 6, 2010Twin Lakes Regional Trail Master Plan 19 Section IV | Demand Forecast Number of Households The graphs below illustrate the historical and projected number of house- holds in the communities in the trail service area. ïìôððð ïîôððð ïðôððð èôððð Þ®±±µ´§² Ý»²¬»® Ý®§¬¿´ êôððð Î±¾¾·²¼¿´» ìôððð îôððð ó ïçéðïçèðïççðîðððîððçîðïðîðîðîðíð Figure 6a Population Growth in Brooklyn Center, Crystal, and Robbinsdale Graph (1970-2030) Ó·²²»¿°±´· ïçëôððð ïçðôððð ïèëôððð ïèðôððð ïéëôððð ïéðôððð Ó·²²»¿°±´· ïêëôððð ïêðôððð ïëëôððð ïëðôððð ïìëôððð ïçéðïçèðïççðîðððîððçîðïðîðîðîðíð Figure 6b Population Growth in Minneapolis Graph (1970-2030) 20 Three Rivers Park DistrictDraft December 6, 2010 Section IV | Demand Forecast Household Description The graphs below illustrate the family make-up of households in the com- munities in the trail service area. Ú¿³·´·» ©·¬¸±«¬ ½¸·´¼®»² Ô·ª»¼ ¿´±²» Ó¿®®·»¼ º¿³·´·» ©·¬¸ ½¸·´¼®»² Ò±²óº¿³·´§ ¸±«»¸±´¼ Ë²³¿®®·»¼ º¿³·´·» ©·¬¸ ½¸·´¼®»² Figure 7a Household Description in Brooklyn Center Graph (2008) Ú¿³·´·» ©·¬¸±«¬ ½¸·´¼®»² Ô·ª»¼ ¿´±²» Ó¿®®·»¼ º¿³·´·» ©·¬¸ ½¸·´¼®»² Ò±²óº¿³·´§ ¸±«»¸±´¼ Ë²³¿®®·»¼ º¿³·´·» ©·¬¸ ½¸·´¼®»² Figure 7b Household Description in Robbinsdale Graph (2000) Ú¿³·´·» ©·¬¸±«¬ ½¸·´¼®»² Ô·ª»¼ ¿´±²» Ó¿®®·»¼ º¿³·´·» ©·¬¸ ½¸·´¼®»² Ò±²óº¿³·´§ ¸±«»¸±´¼ Ë²³¿®®·»¼ º¿³·´·» ©·¬¸ ½¸·´¼®»² Figure 7c Household Description in All Communities that Touch the Trail Service Area Graph Draft December 6, 2010Twin Lakes Regional Trail Master Plan 21 Section IV | Demand Forecast Age Distribution The graphs below illustrate the age distribution of the population in the communities in the trail service area. íôððð îôëðð îôððð ïôëðð ïççð îððð ïôððð îððè ëðð ó Figure 8a Age Distribution in Brooklyn Center Graph ïêðð ïìðð ïîðð ïððð èðð ïççð êðð îððð ìðð îðð ð Figure 8b Age Distribution in Robbinsdale Graph êðôððð ëðôððð ìðôððð íðôððð ïççð îððð îðôððð îððè ïðôððð ó Figure 8c Age Distribution in All Communities that Touch the Trail Service Area Graph 22 Three Rivers Park DistrictDraft December 6, 2010 Section IV | Demand Forecast Household Income The graphs below illustrate the median income of the population in the communities in the trail service area. üéðôððð Þ®±±µ´§² Ý»²¬»® üêðôððð Î±¾¾·²¼¿´» üëðôððð üìðôððð Ý®§¬¿´ üíðôððð Ó·²²»¿°±´· üîðôððð Ø»²²»°·² Ý±«²¬§ üïðôððð Ó»¬®±°±´·¬¿² Í¬¿¬·¬·½¿´ üó ß®»¿ øïí Ý±«²¬·»÷ ïççðîðððîððè Figure 9 Median Household Income in All Communities that Touch the Trail Service Area Graph Draft December 6, 2010Twin Lakes Regional Trail Master Plan 23 Section IV | Demand Forecast Education Attainment The graphs below illustrate the educational attainment levels of the popu- lation in the communities in the trail service area. ß±½·¿¬» ¼»¹®»» Þ¿½¸»´±® ¼»¹®»» Ü·¼ ²±¬ ¹®¿¼«¿¬» ¸·¹¸ ½¸±±´ Ù®¿¼«¿¬»ñ°®±º»·±²¿´ ¼»¹®»» Ø·¹¸ ½¸±±´ ¹®¿¼«¿¬» Í±³» ½±´´»¹» ¿²¼ ²± ¼»¹®»» Figure 10a Education Attainment in Brooklyn Center Graph (2008) ß±½·¿¬» ¼»¹®»» Þ¿½¸»´±® ¼»¹®»» Ü·¼ ²±¬ ¹®¿¼«¿¬» ¸·¹¸ ½¸±±´ Ù®¿¼«¿¬»ñ°®±º»·±²¿´ ¼»¹®»» Ø·¹¸ ½¸±±´ ¹®¿¼«¿¬» Í±³» ½±´´»¹» ¿²¼ ²± ¼»¹®»» Figure 10b Education Attainment in Robbinsdale Graph (2000) ß±½·¿¬» ¼»¹®»» Þ¿½¸»´±® ¼»¹®»» Ü·¼ ²±¬ ¹®¿¼«¿¬» ¸·¹¸ ½¸±±´ Ù®¿¼«¿¬»ñ°®±º»·±²¿´ ¼»¹®»» Ø·¹¸ ½¸±±´ ¹®¿¼«¿¬» Í±³» ½±´´»¹» ¿²¼ ²± ¼»¹®»» Figure 10c Education Attainment in All Communities that Touch the Trail Service Area Graph 24 Three Rivers Park DistrictDraft December 6, 2010 Section IV | Demand Forecast Recreational Use Trends In general, recreation use trends are affected by demographic trends. Increasing median age, urbanization, increasing minority populations and decreasing household size are historically associated with less overall recreation participation per capita. Gender does not affect participation rates. Higher levels of education and higher incomes are historically associated with more overall recreation participation per capita. These trends indicate that over time the Twin Lakes Regional Trail will likely see increased walking and running and decreased bicycling. In-line skating is expected to be a minor uses of the trail (less than 5 percent of the total activity hours) and is expected to decrease in use over time. However, due to above-average education levels and higher incomes of residents within the core and primary service areas of the trail, higher overall participation rates than the state average are expected, and any decreases over time would likely be less severe than statewide projections. Statewide Trends The 2008-2012 State Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP), published by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (MnDNR), gives outdoor recreation decision-makers and managers a focused set of priorities and suggested actions to guide them as they make decisions about outdoor recreation. The SCORP outlines outdoor recreation trends, challenges and issues including protecting existing natural resources, sustaining existing facilities, promoting healthy lifestyles, connecting people with nature and an increasing demand for a diverse range of recreation opportunities based on population changes. As part of the SCORP, the MnDNR completed a 2004 Outdoor Recreation Participation Survey of Minnesotans. Activity rates for trail based participation were included in this projection. Table 1 below shows Draft December 6, 2010Twin Lakes Regional Trail Master Plan 25 Section IV | Demand Forecast participation projections for trail based recreation activities. Walking and running are the only trail activities that are projected to increase in participants and participation hours. The number of annual participants in bicycling, in-line skating and cross-country skiing are expected to decrease by 30 to 44 percent. Snowmobiling is expected to remain nearly static with a participation decrease of about 4 percent. Table 1 Statewide Population Trends for Trail Based Activities Percent of Population Number of Annual Number of Annual Participation Participants Hours of Participation Annually(in thousands)(in thousands) Trail Activity 20042014% 20042014% 20042014 ChangeChange Walking/Hiking54.054.401,8962,18115.0129,665140,079 Bicycling29.017.8-38.51,011715-29.331,89022,552 Running/Jogging14.215.26.8561022.824,33229,870 In-line Skating11.36.2-44.8394250-36.511,3847,229 Snowmobiling9.88.2-16.8342327-4.310,2609,817 Cross-Country 6.53.2-51.4227127-44.13,6692,051 Skiing Source: MnDNR - 2004 Outdoor Recreation Participation Survey of Minnesotans Table 2 below shows the trail activities in ranked order based upon their share of total trail activity hours. Walking is by far the most popular activity, accounting for over two-thirds of all participation hours. Bicycling is currently the second most popular activity, accounting for 15 percent of all participation hours, though it is expected to decrease to 10 percent of all participation hours by 2014. Running/jogging is expected to surpass bicycling in participation hours over the next 10 years. In-line skating and snowmobiling each account for about 5 percent of participation hours. Table 2 Statewide Trail Activities Ranked by Hours of Participation Annual Hours of Participation Trail Activity 2004% of Combined Hours2014% of Combined Hours Walking/Hiking129,65561149,07968 Bicycling31,8901522,55210 Running/Jogging24,3321229,87014 In-line Skating11,38457,2293 Snowmobiling10,26059,8174 Cross-Country 3,66922,0521 Skiing Total21,189100220,598100 Source: MnDNR - 2004 Outdoor Recreation Participation Survey of Minnesotans 26 Three Rivers Park DistrictDraft December 6, 2010 Section IV | Demand Forecast Regional Trends According to Metropolitan Council, 21 percent of all regional park system visits in 2009 were to regional trails and 79 percent were visits to regional parks, park reserves and special recreation features. Although Anoka County Riverfront, Minneapolis Chain of Lakes, and Mississippi Gorge are regional parks, the majority of visits to these parks are for trail use. If the trail visits to Anoka County Riverfront, Minneapolis Chain of Lakes and Mississippi Gorge area were included in the trail totals, 38 percent of all 2009 visits were to trails. Walking and biking are the top activities in the regional parks system, followed by swimming, jogging, picnicking and relaxing (Regional Parks and Trails Survey 2008). Use of Three Rivers Park District regional trails has steadily increased over the last 10 and is expected to continue to increase. There were 706,200 visits to the five regional trails open in 1999. By 2004, visits to those same trails had increased by 41 percent, to 993,000. For the entire Three Rivers Park District network of regional trails, the Council estimates that in 2009 there were over 2,700,000 visits. In the long term, regional trail visitation is expected to continue to increase in the developing areas at a rate equal or greater than the increase in population of these areas. Within fully developed areas where the population levels are expected to remain relatively stable, trail visitation levels will reflect shifting demographics of those areas. Two demographic shifts of special note are described further below. Draft December 6, 2010Twin Lakes Regional Trail Master Plan 27 Section IV | Demand Forecast Twin Lakes Regional Trail Figure 11 2030 Regional Parks Policy Plan - All Recommended Additions and Changes (Source: Metropolitan Council) 28 Three Rivers Park DistrictDraft December 6, 2010 Section IV | Demand Forecast Aging “Baby Boomer” Generation The baby-boom generation is one of Three Rivers Park District’s primary user groups. For this group, their recreational preferences and habits are very well established and the demand for these activities will continue to be strong. However, as this group ages, physical limitations will require some park and trail visitors to change their recreational activities from higher intensity activities such as running, in-line skating and biking to lower-impact recreational activities such as walking, nature observation and educational opportunities. While park and trail facilities are ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant, in the future Three Rivers Park District may decide to adopt more stringent standards to remove potential physical barriers to the aging population. Programs such as Three Rivers Park District’s “Trails at Your Pace” will become more prevalent. As this generation ages, trail use will initially decrease and then increase when the housing stock turns over to younger families with larger households. Immigrant Groups Metropolitan Council demographers found that about half of the total increase in population for the region from 1990 to 2000 was due to immigration of first-generation United States citizens and the births of their children. This trend is expected to continue at least through 2010. Within the region, there are three prevalent immigrant groups: Hmong/ Southeast Asians, Hispanic/Latino and Somali/West Africans. Metropolitan Council research has indicated that these visitor groups share a common approach to park and trail visitation. Specifically, immigrants often visit parks and trails in very large groups (20 or more visitors) of extended families and friends that cross all age classes. They prefer Draft December 6, 2010Twin Lakes Regional Trail Master Plan 29 Section IV | Demand Forecast clustered picnic tables with adjacent play fields for pick-up games, shaded areas with seating for older members of their group and access to water for shore fishing. Three Rivers Park District maintains an active Research and Evaluations Program that periodically interviews park and trail visitors to identify is- sues and gather suggestions for improvements. Information is gathered through on-site interviews and mail-back surveys. The following tables summarize the most recent data for the following categories: •Population and Household Descriptions •Age Characteristics •Household Income •Education Attainment •Gender •Race Table 3 Household Description Estimated Percent of Visitors Regional TrailnLive with Single,Married / Married/ SingleOther ParentsPartnered Partnered No OtherParent with & Children & No Children at Family at at Home ChildrenHome Home at Home Bassett Creek23<1213143<16 Cedar Lake193<12538279<1 Dakota Rail17711540412<1 Lake146<11332532<1 Minnetonka LRT Luce Line149214354432 Medicine Lake1506113842<12 MN River Bluffs 1552144439<11 LRT North Cedar 203124264521 Lake Rush Creek91615344122 Shingle Creek17663843<17 All Regional 1,304217364131 Trails All Park2,879411532454 Visitors 30 Three Rivers Park DistrictDraft December 6, 2010 Section IV | Demand Forecast Table 4 Estimated Percent of Visitors Regional Trailn<33-45-910-1213-1718-2425-3435-4445-5960-7475+ Bassett Creek24<162<1<1210192634<1 Cedar Lake2153<132<13231937101 Dakota Rail1762133316144619<1 Lake178212<11351452201 Minnetonka LRT Luce Line1597<1<1<14115134793 Medicine Lake1611<15235141239172 MN River Bluffs 176<1322438224511<1 LRT North Cedar 2262<13126161834172 Lake Rush Creek9622821611163814<1 Shingle Creek232<1533416<15017<1 All Regional 1,434213223131641151 Trail Visitors All Park6,937551575614171681 Visitors Table 5 Annual Household Income of Those Visiting the Park District’s Regional Trails (Shaded cells denote median annual income.) Estimated Percent of Visitors Regional TrailnLess than $25,000 - $50,000 - $75,000 - $100,000 - $150,000 or $25,000$49,999$74,999$99,999$149,999more Bassett Creek2041433162112 Cedar Lake18281223192415 Dakota Rail16131310202132 Lake12841115132730 Minnetonka LRT Luce Line13711217132729 Medicine Lake13421018182131 MN River Bluffs LRT1451318182535 North Cedar Lake18371119222219 Rush Creek8321425182317 Shingle Creek173121924366 All Regional Trails1,19041119182424 All Park Visitors4,36151619222216 Draft December 6, 2010Twin Lakes Regional Trail Master Plan 31 Section IV | Demand Forecast Table 6 Highest Level of Education Completed (Row totals may not equal 100 due to rounding.) Estimated Percent of Visitors Age 12 or Older Regional Trailn Bassett Creek23<1<1<12154826 Cedar Lake190<1<12984932 Dakota Rail177<1<1311164229 Lake Minnetonka LRT144<1<13944935 Luce Line145<1221464431 Medicine Lake148<13313113733 MN River Bluffs LRT1531<1<1684935 North Cedar Lake200<1<151454136 Rush Creek90<1<1523153917 Shingle Creek17<1<1<116252732 All Regional Trails1,287<1131294432 All Park Visitors3,45512817123526 Table 7 Gender of Those Visiting the Park District’s Regional Trails Estimated Percent of Visitors Regional TrailNumber of FemaleMale Respondents Bassett Creek246139 Cedar Lake2173268 Dakota Rail1804951 Lake1795248 Minnetonka LRT Luce Line1633565 Medicine Lake1653961 MN River Bluffs LRT1774060 North Cedar Lake2263268 Rush Creek983961 Shingle Creek234654 All Regional Trail 1,4524060 Visitors All Park Visitors7,0714951 32 Three Rivers Park DistrictDraft December 6, 2010 Section IV | Demand Forecast Table 8 Race of Those Visiting the Park District’s Regional Trails Estimated Percent of Visitors Regional TrailnAfrican American AsianPacific WhiteOther American / Indian or Islander BlackAlaska Native Bassett Creek233<1<1<197<1 Cedar Lake2111<121923 Dakota Rail175<1<1<1<1991 Lake1771<1<1<1954 Minnetonka LRT Luce Line155<1<1<1<1946 Medicine Lake160<1<11<1981 MN River Bluffs LRT173<1<11<1972 North Cedar Lake2191<11<1972 Rush Creek95<1<1<1<1982 Shingle Creek239<15<186<1 All Regional Trails1,4111<11<1962 All Park Visitors7,032314<1893 Table 9 Response to survey question, “Do You Consider Yourself Hispanic/Latino/Spanish?” Estimated Percent of Visitors Regional TrailnYesNo Bassett Creek24<1>99 Cedar Lake207199 Dakota Rail172199 Lake Minnetonka LRT174<1>99 Luce Line151199 Medicine Lake158<1>99 MN River Bluffs LRT171298 North Cedar Lake216199 Rush Creek94199 Shingle Creek22<1>99 All Regional Trails1,389199 All Park Visitors6,973397 Draft December 6, 2010Twin Lakes Regional Trail Master Plan 33 Section IV | Demand Forecast Activity use of the Twin Lakes Regional Trail is expected to be similar to use of other Three Rivers Park District regional trails, and will provide walking, dog walking, running/jogging, bicycling and in-line skating op- portunities during the non winter months. Three Rivers Park District’s seasonal-use data of existing regional trails indicates that significant use of the trail will occur in the spring, summer and fall seasons. Winter use of the Twin Lakes Regional Trail is depended on weather conditions and independent use agreements reached with local communities to main- tain and operate the trail during the winter season (defined as Novem- ber 15 through March 15). The proposed Twin Lakes Regional Trail is projected to initially generate 125,000 annual visits. The proposed trail is not expected to be a recreational destination trail for non-local residents, but rather is anticipated to be primarily used by local residents for recreation and access to the Brookdale retail outlets, Transit Center, Library, residential areas, and other regional trails. Studies performed by the Metropolitan Council indicate that regional trails with this type of use have typically seen a strong correlation between trail visits and the population of communities that these trails pass through. Because of similar community demographics, the Bruce Vento Regional Trail located in St. Paul and Maplewood was used to assist in estimating use to Twin Lakes Regional Trail. The detailed calculations are shown below. Bruce Vento Regional Trail •Estimated Annual Visits: 205,000 •Population within 0.5 Miles: 29,287 (every person makes an average of 7.00 annual visits) •Population within 2.0 Miles: 137,720 (every person makes an average of 1.49 annual visits) Twin Lakes Regional Trail •Population within 0.5 Miles: 15,168 (15,168 X 7.00 = 106,176 annual visits) •Population within 2.0 Miles: 97,143 (97,143 X 1.49 = 144,743 annual visits) •(106,176 visits + 144,743 visits)/2 = 125,460 annual visits 34 Three Rivers Park DistrictDraft December 6, 2010 Section IV | Demand Forecast ÞÎÑÑÕÔÇÒ ÐßÎÕ á@ßà ÚÎ×ÜÔÛÇ áàßb ÞÎÑÑÕÔÇÒ ÝÛÒÌÛÎ ÿü¾þ ¸ûøú ÌÉ×Ò ÔßÕÛÍ Ò±®¬¸ Ó···°°· ÎÛÙ×ÑÒßÔ Î»¹·±²¿´ ÌÎß×Ô Ð¿®µ ÷§ Ì©·² Ô¿µ» áàß& ÝÑÔËÓÞ×ß ØÛ×ÙØÌÍ ÝÎÇÍÌßÔ ÒÛÉ ØÑÐÛ ÎÑÞÞ×ÒÍÜßÔÛ ÿü¾þ Ó×ÒÒÛßÐÑÔ×Í Ð®·³¿®§ Í»®ª·½» ß®»¿ øî Ó·´»÷ Ý±®» Í»®ª·½» ß®»¿ øòë Ó·´»÷ Î»¹·±²¿´ Ì®¿·´ ÙÑÔÜÛÒ ÊßÔÔÛÇ ðïî Ì¸»±¼±®» Ó·´» É·®¬¸ Î»¹·±²¿´ Ð¿®µ Figure 12 Core & Primary Trail Service Area Map Table 10Table 11 Twin Lakes Regional TrailAverage Seasonal Use Distribution on Three Rivers Park District Regional Expected Use Distribution by Activity Trails Percent of Total Trail Visitation Trail Activity% of Expected UseQuarter Occurring in that Quarter Walking/Hiking30December - February8% Bicycling60March - May24% Running/Jogging8June - August42% In-line Skating2September - November26% Other<1Source: Three Rivers Park District Source: Three Rivers Park District Draft December 6, 2010Twin Lakes Regional Trail Master Plan 35 Section IV | Demand Forecast Table 12 Primary Activity of Those Visiting the Park District’s Regional Trails Estimated Percent of Visitors Regional TrailnBikingWalkingRunningSkating / Other Skiing Bassett Creek87246371421 Cedar Lake12,66490334<1 Dakota Rail6,30087823<1 Lake Indepen-5606918112<1 dence Lake5,95978148<1<1 Minnetonka LRT Luce Line4,810811252<1 Medicine Lake4,7856522112<1 MN River Bluffs 3,97981910<1<1 LRT North Cedar 7,62283944<1 Lake Rush Creek5,721799561 Northeast 4906619105<1 Diagonal Shingle Creek1,2836426631 All Park55,045791263<1 Visitors TWIN LAKES RT - Projection603082<1 Table 13 Response to survey question, “Is your primary use of this trail today for: recreation/ exercise, commuting to work, access to commercial/retail areas, or access to family/ friends home?” Estimated Percent of Visitors Regional TrailnRecreation/ Commuting To Access toAccess to ExerciseWork Commercial/ Family/Friends Retail AreasHome Bassett Creek24973<1<1 Cedar Lake206781741 Dakota Rail1789532<1 Lake1789721<1 Minnetonka LRT Luce Line163731017<1 Medicine Lake163928<1<1 MN River Bluffs 1788811<1<1 LRT North Cedar 223811072 Lake Rush Creek979621<1 Shingle Creek23>99<1<1<1 All Regional 1,4338893<1 Trails 36 Three Rivers Park DistrictDraft December 6, 2010 Section IV | Demand Forecast Special Needs The Park District is committed to providing access and recreational opportunities to all people, including persons with disabilities, minorities and other special-population groups. The Park District meets this commitment through appropriate facility design and programming considerations, and by actively addressing potential barriers to participation. All Park District facilities described in the Master Plan will be developed in accordance with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) standards and guidelines. More specifically, the Twin Lakes Regional Trail will adhere to the 2007 Minnesota Bikeway Facility Design Manual (Mn/DOT); Trail Planning, Design and Development Guidelines (MnDNR); Designing Sidewalks and Trails for Access, Part I and II: Best Practices Design Guide (FHWA); ADA Accessibility Guidelines for Outdoor Developed Areas (Federal Access Board); and ADA and ABA Accessibility Guidelines for Buildings and Facilities (Federal Access Board) unless more current guidelines and standards exist at the time of development. [Mention PROWAG?] The regional trail, associated trail heads and trail amenities such as rest stops, parking, rest rooms and water access will be designed to accommodate individuals with disabilities. In addition, the 10’ wide paved trail will safely accommodate two-way directional pedestrian traffic and incorporate periodic rest stops to provide users an opportunity to rest, overlook the natural environment, and to comfortably interact with other trail users. Compliance with ADA standards is an important goal of the trail design. The routing of the trail within existing street right-of-way makes it a challenge in certain areas to be fully compliant with ADA standards. Three Rivers Park District and local municipalities have made every attempt to identify a trail routing that minimizes these occurrences. Parking will be provided at existing local parks, shopping centers and regional parks on the trail. Regional parks will act as trailheads for the proposed trail as well as other identified key orientation points. Crossing of major roadways will be necessary because of the unique urban character of the trail. Three Rivers Park District will investigate opportunities to modify or add traffic signal timing, crosswalks and signage to insure the trail is a safe, family-oriented facility. The trail has also been designed to provide access to important local community destinations such as parks, commercial areas, community facilities, cultural destinations and transit facilities. The regional trail will pass through a variety of neighborhoods with varying demographics providing access to people with a wide range of social and cultural backgrounds. On a broader scale, the Twin Lakes Regional Trail will provide direct access to the metropolitan regional trail system for an area currently under served by regional trails (Metropolitan Council’s 2030 Regional Parks Policy Plan). Draft December 6, 2010Twin Lakes Regional Trail Master Plan 37 Section IV | Demand Forecast The adjacent trail communities will not only have access to the Twin Lakes Regional trail, but also gain direct access to several existing regional park facilities and existing and planned regional trails. Neighborhood trail connections will be included at regular intervals as the trail develops to further increase trail access to the neighboring communities. The Park District has several programs designed to assist in obtaining access for persons for whom cost could be a barrier to participation. The “Parks for All People” program is designed to provide free passes for swimming and cross-country skiing to qualified recipients of Hennepin County economic assistance programs. Discounted camping, equipment rental, and educational programs are available. Three Rivers Park District does not charge entrance fees to its regional parks or park reserves. The Park District pursues promotional outreach activities, and works with special-interest organizations such as the Courage Center and Wilderness Inquiry to further encourage participation in activities and use of park facilities. If arrangements are made in advance, interpreters and alternative forms of printed material are available at programmed events. 38 Three Rivers Park DistrictDraft December 6, 2010 Section V | Resource Assessment & Management Resource Assessment & Management Three Rivers Park District has a District-wide ecological stewardship and natural resource management program that focuses on natural resource preservation and restoration. Each Park and trail undergoes a natural resources assessment and has a specific preservation and restoration plan developed to meet existing conditions and Three Rivers Park Dis- trict goals. Similarly, cultural resources throughout the Park District are actively managed to ensure that all applicable regulatory requirements are met, and established best practices are adhered to. District-wide cul- tural resource management policies and procedures are established in the agency’s Cultural Resource Management Plan (CRMP). Natural Resource Inventory Minnesota Land Cover Classes System (MLCCS) The trail project area is a predominantly developed area with small rem- nants of forest and wetland cover at the fringes of the Twin Lakes and Shingle Creek. ÓÒ ÔßÒÜ ÝÑÊÛÎ ÝÔßÍÍ×Ú×ÝßÌ×ÑÒ ÍÇÍÌÛÓ ×³°»®ª·±«Ì¿´´ Ù®¿» áàßb Ü®§ Ì¿´´ Ù®¿»Ì®»» Ð´¿²¬¿¬·±² É»¬´¿²¼ Û³»®¹»²¬ Ê»¹ò Ú±®»¬ ÞÎÑÑÕÔÇÒ ÐßÎÕ Ó¿·²¬¿·²»¼ Ì¿´´ Ù®¿É»¬´¿²¼ Ú±®»¬ Ñ°»² É¿¬»®É»¬´¿²¼ Ñ°»² É¿¬»® ÿü¾þ Í¸±®¬ Ù®¿»É»¬´¿²¼ Í¸®«¾ Í¸®«¾´¿²¼ ððòëï ¸ûøú Ó·´» ÞÎÑÑÕÔÇÒ ÝÛÒÌÛÎ ÚÎ×ÜÔÛÇ ÌÉ×Ò ÔßÕÛÍ ÎÛÙ×ÑÒßÔ Ò±®¬¸ Ó···°°· ÌÎß×Ô Î»¹·±²¿´ Ð¿®µ Ì©·² Ô¿µ» áàß& ÝÎÇÍÌßÔ ÒÛÉ ØÑÐÛ ÎÑÞÞ×ÒÍÜßÔÛ Ó×ÒÒÛßÐÑÔ×Í ÿü¾þ Figure 13 Minnesota Land Cover Classi¿ cation System Map Draft December 6, 2010Twin Lakes Regional Trail Master Plan 39 Section V | Resource Assessment & Management Topography The topography of the Twin Lakes Regional Trail alignment is generally flat with several lake basins. The landscape undulates mildly in areas close to the incised Shingle Creek. Rare, Endangered & Threatened Species Inventory The Minnesota County Biological Survey (MCBS) has been completed for Hennepin County. The MCBS collects data on observations (element oc- currences) of rare species, animal aggregation areas (mussel beds, colo- nial waterbird nesting areas), high quality plant communities, and unique geologic features. Element occurrences that have been documented by the MCBS within 1 mile of the Twin Lakes Regional Trail are summarized in Table 14 below. With the exception of the bald eagle, all element oc- currences documented by the MCBS are distant from the trail alignment and will not be impacted. The nesting location of the bald eagle changes over time. Seasonal work windows may be imposed if bald eagle nesting occurs in close proximity to the trail during construction Table 14 Rare, Endangered and Threatened Species Occurrences Documented Near the Twin Lakes Regional Trail Common Unique Scientific Name Last ObservedNotes NameID Water willow37127Decodon 1953Special Concern Species. verticillatus Observed in a lake (plant)approximately ¾ mile west of the proposed Twin Lakes Regional Trail. 371281948Observed in a small lake ¾ mile east of the Twin Lakes Regional Trail Least darter39229Etheostoma 1939Special Concern Species. microperca Observed in a small lake (fish)approximately ¾ mile east of the proposed Twin Lakes Regional Trail. --44836--1991Colonial waterbird nesting area (Great Blue Heron). Observed approximately 1 mile from the proposed Twin Lake Regional Trail. Black 63105Ligumia recta 2007Special Concern Species. Sandshell(mussel)Mississippi River. Bald Eagle78144Haliaeetus2005Special Concern Species. Observed nesting in lake approximately ½ mile west of the proposed Twin Lakes Regional Trail. Fawnsfoot110167Trucilla 2007Not listed. Observed donaciformis in Mississippi River (mussel)approximately ¾ mile from the proposed Twin Lakes Regional Trail. 40 Three Rivers Park DistrictDraft December 6, 2010 Section V | Resource Assessment & Management Native Plant Communities Inventory The only native plant community that the MCBS has inventoried within a 1 mile buffer of the proposed trail is high quality Floodplain Forest on an island on the Mississippi River, approximately 1 mile from the proposed alignment. Vegetation Current vegetation in the Twin Lakes Regional Trail project area is domi- nated by disturbance adapted plant communities typically found in post- agricultural, urbanizing, roadside areas. Disturbance-adapted herbaceous roadside plant communities typically are dominated by smooth brome, reed canary grass, kentucky bluegrass, canada goldenrod, and giant goldenrod. Disturbance-adapted forested plant communities are often dominated by box elder and green ash in the tree stratum, and prickly ash, European buckthorn and glossy buckthorn in the shrub stratum. Regional trail vegetation on the east side of the Twin Lakes. Lakes, Wetlands & Streams The Twin Lakes Regional Trail runs past Twin Lakes, a Minnesota Depart- ment of Natural Resources (MnDNR) Public Water. Twin Lakes are on the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) 303d List of Impaired Waters – the impairment being eutrophication and excessive nutrients. The trail also crosses Shingle Creek (County Ditch 13), a MnDNR Public Water. Shingle Creek is on the USEPA 303d List of Impaired Waters – the impairment being low aquatic macro invertebrate diversity and low dis- solved oxygen. Draft December 6, 2010Twin Lakes Regional Trail Master Plan 41 Section V | Resource Assessment & Management The National Wetland Inventory (NWI) has mapped wetlands in the vicini- ty of Shingle Creek and the associated floodplain. Wetland types mapped include seasonally flooded (diked or impounded) palustrine emergent wetlands (PEMCd) and seasonally flooded (diked or impounded) decidu- ous forested wetlands (PFO1Cd). Other areas along the proposed trail alignment are fully developed. Shingle Creek Regional Trail and Parkway north of Bass Lake Road. North Mississippi Regional Trail along the Mississippi River. 42 Three Rivers Park DistrictDraft December 6, 2010 Section V | Resource Assessment & Management Watershed Most of the Twin Lakes Regional Trail project area lies within the Watershed 07010206, within the jurisdiction of the Shingle Creek and West Mississippi Watershed Management Commissions. Figure 14 Watershed Boundaries Map (Source: Shingle Creek and West Mississippi Watershed Management Commissions) Ground Water Organic soil deposits potentially present in the vicinity of Shingle Creek likely formed as a result of abundant groundwater input. Organic soils may be unstable for trail construction and might require removal and backfill with granular material. Given the relatively deep deposits of coarse min- eral soils elsewhere in the project area, the apparent groundwater table is typically well below the soil surface. Scattered soils in the project area with excessive fines may have a temporarily perched groundwater table near the soil surface for short periods. There are no calcareous fens, a rare groundwater fed wetland type, in the project area. Draft December 6, 2010Twin Lakes Regional Trail Master Plan 43 Section V | Resource Assessment & Management Soils The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) has mapped the soils of Hennepin County. Table 15 summarizes soils mapped in the vicinity of the Twin Lakes Regional Trail. Table 15 Summary of Mapped Soils Near the Twin Lakes Regional Trail Map Unit SymbolMap Unit NameLikely Pre-Settlement Vegetation U3BUdorthents – cut and fill Unknown. Soils associated with land, 0-2% slopesurbanized landscape. U2AUdorthents, wet Unknown. Soils associated with substratum, 0-2% slopesurbanized landscape. Associated in part with Shingle Creek U1AUrban land – Udorthents, Unknown. Soils associated with wet substratum, urbanized landscape. Associated in complex, 0-2% slopespart with Shingle Creek. U4AUrban land – Sandy areas likely vegetated with Udipsamments, cut and dry sandy prairie in pre settlement fill land, complex, 0-2% times. slopes D34BUrban land – Hubbard Relatively flat portions likely complex, 0-8% slopesvegetated with dry sandy prairie, steeper ravines likely with dry shrubs such as eastern red-cedar encroaching. D17ADuelm loamy sand, 0-2% Likely vegetated in pre-settlement slopestimes with dry sandy prairie. D31AUrban land – Duelm Likely vegetated in pre-settlement complex, 0-2% slopestimes with dry sandy prairie. Natural Resource Management Restoration of Degraded Resources The majority of the proposed Twin Lakes Regional Trail passes through a highly urbanized landscape. Much of the proposed Trail and adjacent buf- fer is relatively narrow and few remnants of natural communities remain. In highly ecologically disturbed landscapes, an assessment of native veg- etation can help to guide appropriate restoration efforts. Review of soils mapping, native vegetation maps and familiarity with the lay of the land will provide direction to plant community restoration. Such restoration may include re-vegetation of woodland trail buffers. In a few areas where the trail buffer is wider than the typical trail, resto- ration of degraded natural plant community remnants may be possible. These areas, if greater than several acres, could be restored to a native woodland or prairie community as conditions permit. With appropriate interpretive signage, such restorations can provide visual and educational 44 Three Rivers Park DistrictDraft December 6, 2010 Section V | Resource Assessment & Management interest to the recreationist and re-establish connections with the distant natural heritage of Hennepin County. Vegetation Management For ease of maintenance, much of the typical sections of trail would be buffered with mowed turf grass interspersed with planted or naturally growing trees. Turf grass buffers would be mowed regularly and sprayed for fertilization and weed control as necessary. Planted trees along the Trail would be spaced close enough such that they buffer the surround- ing built environment or far enough apart to provide vistas where desir- able. Trees, naturally growing or planted, would be maintained to grow into an urban woodland with a canopy over arching the trail. Diseased or disease-prone trees would be removed and replaced with healthy disease resistant species. Overhanging branches that may pose a safety hazard to recreationists or compromise the health of the tree will be removed. Considerable maintenance will be required initially in order to keep in- vasive species in check in restoration areas or otherwise requested by host communities. Typical invasive species in upland areas in the north Metro area are leafy spurge (Euphorbia esula), Canada thistle (Cirsium arvense), European buckthorn (Rhamnus cathartica), and glossy buck- thorn (Rhamnus frangula). Common invasives in wet areas are reed ca- nary grass (Phalaris arundinacea), purple loosestrife (Lythrum salicaria), and narrow-leaved cattail (Typha angustifolia). Appropriate management techniques depend on the vegetaion type and surroundings. Burn man- agement might be feasible in prairie restoration areas. Spot spraying with herbicides may be appropriate in certain instances. Hand weeding, which could involve the use of supervised volunteer groups, may be also be an option. After several years of intensive management, restoration areas will be less prone to invasive species establishment. Wildlife Management A typical assemblage of wildlife adapted to urbanized conditions is ex- pected throughout the project area. Common mammals may include grey squirrel, red squirrel, raccoon, skunk, white-tailed deer, coyote, red fox, and potentially grey fox in more wooded areas. Common bird spe- cies that thrive in urbanizing conditions include brown-headed cowbird, English sparrow, grackle, blue jay, cardinal, robin, and crow. Common raptors in an urbanized or partially agricultural setting include red-tailed hawk and Cooper’s hawk. Water Resource Management Best management practices will be followed during trail construction and maintenance activities including erosion control measures and vegeta- tion establishment as required. Since the Twin Lakes Regional Trail route passes through a fully developed suburban area, the storm sewer and ponding owned by the host cities, Hennepin County, and Mn/DOT will Draft December 6, 2010Twin Lakes Regional Trail Master Plan 45 Section V | Resource Assessment & Management primarily serve to take surface water run-off. On a localized basis where space permits, permanent vegetated buffers may be employed adjacent the trail surface to minimize surface water run-off from the trail itself. Trail construction will comply with the Park District’s non-degradation policy. Cultural Resources Inventory Inventory Search The Minnesota State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) conducted a Minnesota Archeological Inventory and Historic Structures Inventory search for the township/range/sections traversed by the proposed Twin Lakes Regional Trail alignment (inventory search area). The SHPO data- base contains previously recorded archeological and historic architectural properties. Archeology No archeological sites were previously identified in the inventory search area. Architectural History Over 500 previously recorded architectural history properties were found in the inventory search area. Most were not identified as listed or eligible to be listed on the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP). Of the 17 NRHP-listed or NRHP-eligible properties in the inventory search area, six were more than one block away from the proposed regional trail align- ment. Three railroad bridges within a block of the alignment were record- ed as NRHP-eligible, but are indicated as having been razed. The following properties are recorded as NRHP-eligible and are located in a small area approximately one block south of the southern terminus of the proposed trail alignment, south of TH 100 and west of Bottineau Boulevard: •House - 4318 W. Broadway, Minneapolis •House - 4351 W. Broadway, Minneapolis •House - 4350 W. Broadway, Minneapolis •House - 4345 W. Broadway, Minneapolis •House - 4339 W. Broadway, Minneapolis •House - 4337 W. Broadway, Minneapolis •House - 4331 W. Broadway, Minneapolis •Robbinsdale Historic District at W. Broadway and Lakeland Ave., Minneapolis The distance and separation from the proposed trail alignment suggests 46 Three Rivers Park DistrictDraft December 6, 2010 Section V | Resource Assessment & Management that impacts to these properties are unlikely. Future Investigation The SHPO advises that, because the majority of archaeological sites in the state and many historic architectural properties have not been recorded, important sites or structures may exist within the search area and may be affected by development projects within that area. The SHPO further advises that additional research, including field survey, may be necessary to adequately assess the area’s potential to contain historic properties. If the regional trail receives federal funding, it will be subject to review under Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 (as amended). Section 106 review would determine the need for additional survey as well as would make a determination as to effect of the project on any identified NHRP-eligible resources. Cultural Resources Management Policies and Actions Cultural resources are managed by Three Rivers Park District in accor- dance with the policies and procedures set forth by the agency’s Cultural Resources Management Plan (CRMP). For all new development pertaining to the Twin Lakes Regional Trail, the design-development phase of con- struction will include cultural resource evaluation as outlined in the CRMP. Unanticipated discoveries uncovered during trail construction will likewise be managed in accordance with established procedures. Public education and access to cultural resources may be provided where appropriate. Cultural Resource Research Needs Per the recommendation of the Minnesota State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO), additional research will be conducted during the design- development phase to ensure that potential cultural resources which have not been previously identified are not adversely impacted. All cultural resources identified within the APE will be incorporated into the Park Dis- trict’s Cultural Resources GIS Database for easy future reference. Re- sources within or adjacent to the Twin Lakes Regional Trail corridor that exhibit a high interpretive potential will be further evaluated for public program development opportunities. Draft December 6, 2010Twin Lakes Regional Trail Master Plan 47 Section V | Resource Assessment & Management This page left intentionally blank 48 Three Rivers Park DistrictDraft December 6, 2010 Section VI | Development Concept Development Concept Development Plan Currently, first-tier suburban residents have limited access to regional trail systems. Specifically, the fully-developed cities of Brooklyn Center and Robbinsdale along the Twin Lakes Regional Trail have few opportunities to significantly expand their trail system in the future. This proposed regional trail provides the communities direct access to a regional trail and park system with connections to the Mississippi River. An existing segment of the Twin Lakes Regional Trail near lower Twin Lake. Implementation It is anticipated that the Twin Lakes Regional Trail will be improved in stages, with the construction of various stages driven by local factors such as availability of land, timing of adjacent roadway improvements, and public desire to expand the existing recreational trail system, and financing. Until the corridor is fully developed, gaps in the trail will exist and may be overcome by existing sidewalks or interim use of city streets. However, the ultimate trail geometry will consist of a 10’ wide paved surface separate from any adjacent roadway, so that trail users will not share the roadway with motorized vehicles. The development and implementation of unconstructed trail segments and upgrading of certain trail segments to Three Rivers Park District standards Draft December 6, 2010Twin Lakes Regional Trail Master Plan 49 Section VI | Development Concept will contain additional activities beyond the Master Plan phase. These activities typically include the preparation of final construction documents, additional property and natural resource analysis, final cost estimates, City staff review opportunities, and public approval meetings (such as City Council, Park and Recreation Commission meetings and Neighborhood Open Houses). The cost associated with this planning and development process is not included within the identified trail implementation costs. These planning and development costs will be prepared and identified prior to the commencing final construction document phase. In some cases, the host city will or may seek Park District approval to design and construct the trail. Construction commences when the Park District issues a Notice-to-Proceed to the city contingent on the following: •Conveyance of easements to the Park District creating a continuous and contiguous trail corridor. •Park District’s approval of plans and specifications for trail construction of the trail. •Funding of the project in the Park District’s Capital Improvement Program by the Park District’s District Board of Commissioners. At this time, the Park District does not anticipate any direct revenue generation from the development of the trail system. However, secondary revenue sources may be available. For example, the proposed regional trail system provides a more direct and clear connection to the existing regional park system, potentially resulting in increased park visitor and revenue opportunities. Permitted Trail Uses The trail will be open to the general public, and its intended uses will include pedestrians (walkers and joggers), in-line skating, bicycles and other uses mandated by state law including, but not limited to, electric personal assistive devices. Motorized and equestrian uses will be prohibited, except for motorized vehicles used by the Three Rivers Park District for maintenance or law enforcement activities. Trail Design Guidelines The proposed trail alignment will be predominantly implemented within existing street right-of-way (ROW) and parkland owned by local municipalities and government agencies. The optimum trail width is a 10’ wide paved surface separated from vehicular traffic, although there may be instances that require the trail to be temporarily on-road or reduced in width for short segments or until long range plans for property acquisition are developed due to limited right of way or adjacent landowner concerns. Future trail segments are to be constructed with bituminous paving for ease of maintenance and comfort of users. 50 Three Rivers Park DistrictDraft December 6, 2010 Section VI | Development Concept Figure 15 Preferred Typical Trail Section A number of factors must be taken into consideration as final design of the regional trail is constructed, such as the following: •Right-of-way width •Topography and drainage impacts •Existing vegetation •Curb cuts and driveway crossings •Overhead and subsurface utilities •Intersection crossings •Proximity to adjacent buildings, homes, businesses and industrial facilities Where possible, trails should be separated from the roadway with an eight-foot wide boulevard [confirm]. However, in limited circumstances, trails can parallel the roadway at back of curb separated from the road by a paved two-foot wide “clear zone.” This two-foot zone provides a buffer between the trail users and motorists and should be striped to delineate the edge of the trail. Curb ramps should be used at all roadways. Trails should have a maximum of five percent (5%) grade and a cross slope of two percent (2%) for drainage. Draft December 6, 2010Twin Lakes Regional Trail Master Plan 51 Section VI | Development Concept The following sources should be referred to when preparing the design and construction plans: •Guide for the Development of Bicycle Facilities, prepared by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Offi- cials (AASHTO), 1999 •Selecting Roadway Design Treatments to Accommodate Bicycles, Federal Highway Administration, January 1994 •MN/DOT Bikeway Facility Design Manual, Minnesota Department of Transportation (MN/DOT), March 2007 •State Aid Rule 8820.9995 Minimum Bicycle Path Standards, State Aid for Local Transportation •Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MMUTCD), MN/DOT, May 2005 •Public Right of Way Access Guidelines (PROWAG) Selected Trail Alignment The trail route is comprised of existing trail on the west end and a future trail extension to the east. This plan generally refers to the portion of the trail route originating at the interchange of Bottineau Boulevard (CSAH 81)/TH 100 to the interchange of Bass Lake Road/TH 100 as the “West Segment.” The portion of the trail from TH 100 east to North Mississippi Regional Park is referred to as the “East Segment.” A series of detailed plan views of the trail is found in the report’s Appendix B - Trail Plans. Bottineau Boulevard/TH100 to Bass Lake Road/TH 100 West Segment At its western end, the Twin Lakes Regional Trail originates in the south- east quadrant of the Bottineau Boulevard (CSAH 81) and TH 100 inter- change near the Twin Lakes. At this location, there is a public parking lot constructed by Mn/DOT in 20XX, and the trailconnects with the planned Crystal Lake Regional Trail. The parking lot serves these regional; trails in addition to providing boat access to Twin Lakes. From this trail conflu- ence, the Twin Lakes Regional Trail and the Crystal Lake Regional Trail share a 1/4 mile trail segment between the parking lot and the TH 100 underpass. Immediately prior to the TH 100 underpass, the two trails split. The Crys- tal Lake Regional Trail passes underneath Highway 100 on the southwest side of the canal while the Twin Lakes Regional Trail crosses over the existing box culvert for the canal and returns back down passing under- neath TH 100 on the northeast side of the canal. TH 100 is a barrier to non-motorized transportation, but the underpass also establishes a rec- ognizable “gateway” feature to the trail. 52 Three Rivers Park DistrictDraft December 6, 2010 Section VI | Development Concept System Kiosk/ Trail Kiosk/ Directional Sign Þ®±±µ´§² Ý»²¬»® Û¨·¬·²¹ Ì©·² Ô¿µ» Ì®¿·´ Directional Ì®¿²·¬ Ð®±°±»¼ Ì©·² Ô¿µ» Ì®¿·´Þ¿ Ô¿µ» Î¼ Ý»²¬»® Sign ®Ô ® ¿ Ô¿¿ » ® »® ëé¬¸ ßª» Î»¹·±²¿´ Ì®¿·´ ÚÎ×ÜÔÛÇ ððòîëðòë Þ®±±µ¼¿´» Ó·´» Ó¿´´ Ü»·®»¼ Ô±²¹óÌ»®³ System Kiosk/ Ý±²²»½¬·±² Trail Kiosk/ ÞÎÑÑÕÔÇÒ ÝÛÒÌÛÎ Directional Sign ×²¬»®·³ Ý±²²»½¬·±² Ð±¬»²¬·¿´ Ú«¬«®» Ì®¿·´ Ý±²²»½¬·±² ¼_Ãªâ´ëí®¼ ßª» ëí®¼ ßª» ÿü¾þ Ó×ÒÒÛßÐÑÔ×Í áàß& ëð¬¸ ßª» Ò±®¬¸ Ó···°°· Î»¹·±²¿´ ìç¬¸ ßª» Ò Ð¿®µ System Kiosk/ ¿²¼ Ì®¿·´ Trail Kiosk/ Directional Sign ùèé ÆYª â´ Ð±¬»²¬·¿´ Ú«¬«®» Ì®¿·´ Ý±²²»½¬·±² ÎÑÞÞ×ÒÍÜßÔÛ Ó»³±®·¿´ Ð¿®µ©¿§ Î»¹·±²¿´ Ì®¿·´ Ê·½¬±®§ Ó»³±®·¿´ Ðµ©§ Ì©·² Ô¿µ» Ð¿®µ Ð´¿²²»¼ Ý®§¬¿´ Ô¿µ» Î»¹·±²¿´ Ì®¿·´ Figure 16 Selected Twin Lakes Regional Trail Alignment Map The Twin Lakes Regional Trail skirts the edges of the Twin Lakes in both Robbinsdale and Brooklyn Center before beginning a generally north and east trajectory through Brooklyn Center to North Mississippi Regional Park. It provides long vistas across the Twin Lakes chain and then passes through Twin Lakes Park, a Brooklyn Center city park with playground and picnic facilities. At the north end of Twin Lakes Park, there is a miss- ing link in the trail route continuity — a one block segment along Twin Lakes Avenue. The plan calls for constructing a trail along Twin Lakes Avenue between Lakeside Avenue and Lake Breeze Avenue to provide a continuous trail. The route then follows Lake Breeze Avenue east and turns north onto Aze- lia Avenue. Dependent on redevelopment, another potential future trail connection” follows Lakeside Avenue east and curves north along Azelia Avenue through the vacant Northwest Athletic Club site. Both routes pass through a residential neighborhood. Heading north on Azelia Avenue, the trail leaves the residential area, crosses the freight rail line at-grade, and passes through a small commer- cial and light industrial area before turning north on France Avenue along adjacent residential properties. After several blocks, the trail route turns east along 53rd Avenue where single family residential is complemented by multi-family residential near the turn north onto Old Osseo Road which parallels Brooklyn Boulevard to 55th Avenue. Draft December 6, 2010Twin Lakes Regional Trail Master Plan 53 Section VI | Development Concept Regional trail approach to the Twin Lakes canal and underpass of TH 100. Turning east, the route crosses Brooklyn Boulevard at 55th Avenue. The crossing on the south side of the intersection is another missing link in the West Segment requiring construction of new trail and intersection ad- justment to establish continuity. Three Rivers Park District will investigate the crossing of Brooklyn Boulevard to improve pedestrian safety and ac- cessibility at the intersection. Potential improvements could include sig- nal countdown timers and/or traffic signal timing adjustments pending further study. After crossing Brooklyn Boulevard, the trail route follows the south side of 55th Avenue and then follows the west and north edge of the Brookdale Mall via Xerxes Avenue and Bass Lake Road. The current retail buildings is set back distant from the perimeter roads and trail which primarily pass alongside its extensive surface parking areas. The route crosses several mall entrances which are signalized intersections. Future retail redevel- opment will recognize the trail alignment and user safety in its design. Located on the opposite side of Bass Lake Road from the mall is Brook- lyn Center Transit Center. The close proximity of the trail to the station improves access to transit and offers up the possibility of multi-modal commuting. Passing the Brookdale Mall eastbound, the selected alignment follows the most direct route across TH 100 on the Bass Lake Road/57th Avenue bridge. Currently, this route does not meet Three Rivers Park District trail standards due to restricted sidewalk width but is the desired long-term connection. The Park District has initiated discussions with Mn/DOT and Brooklyn Center on the feasibility of modifying the bridge to eventually accommodate the regional trail. Mn/DOT is currently studying the possi- bility of accommodating the regional trail in conjunction with its planned 54 Three Rivers Park DistrictDraft December 6, 2010 Section VI | Development Concept Existing Shingle Creek Regional Trail pedestrian bridge over TH 100. Existing Bass Lake Road/57th Avenue bridge over TH 100. re-decking in 2013. Until the Bass Lake Road/57th Avenue bridge re- decking is completed, the trail route will utilize an interim connection by following Shingle Creek Parkway south to the existing pedestrian bridge over TH 100. Additionally, with the redevelopment of Brookdale Mall under study, an opportunity may present itself to create an additional trail route at the southern edge of the mall property from 55th Avenue to the Shingle Creek Regional Trail pedestrian bridge. This additional trail route is identi- fied on subsequent maps as a “Potential Future Connection.” Twin Lakes Regional Trail exists from the end of the Shingle Creek Re- gional Trail pedestrian bridge to Logan Avenue along the interim connec- tion. East of Logan Avenue, the continuation of the selected route along 57th Avenue requires new trail construction to North Mississippi Regional Park. The land use adjacent the route is exclusively residential with stan- dard block configurations of approximately 300’ east/west by 600’ north/ south. Presented with this extensive grid of streets to navigate, several Draft December 6, 2010Twin Lakes Regional Trail Master Plan 55 Section VI | Development Concept potential routes to extend the trail from TH 100 to North Mississippi Re- gional Park were evaluated and considered. Ultimately, 57th Avenue was identified as the selected alignment as it best meets Three Rivers Park District’s established Guiding Principles (see Section II) and is strongly supported by representatives from the Task Force. East of TH 100 extending to Humboldt Avenue, 57th Avenue is within Hennepin County’s jurisdiction as a County State Aid Highway (CSAH). At Humboldt, 57th Avenue transitions to a city street under Brooklyn Center’s jurisdiction. In its existing configuration, from TH 100 to Logan Avenue, 57th Avenue has two traffic lanes in each direction. At Logan Avenue, 57th Avenue narrows to one lane of traffic in each direction, and one parking lane on each side. There is an existing continuous concrete sidewalk on the south side of 57th Avenue. There is no sidewalk on the north side. The Twin Lakes Regional Trail is proposed to follow the south side of 57th Avenue replacing the existing sidewalk. There is one signalized intersec- tion at Logan Avenue and signed 4-way stops at Humboldt Avenue and Dupont Avenue. For the remainder of the corridor, the cross streets re- quire vehicles and bicycles to stop at 57th, while 57th traffic continues unstopped, thus allowing vehicles and bicycles to travel longer stretches without having to stop at the cross streets. Throughout the east segment, the route crosses fourteen residential driveways, one alley and one com- mercial driveway. Embedded in the neighborhood fabric, the Twin lakes Regional Trail will be easily accessible to neighborhood residents, thereby increasing recreational opportunities. 57th Avenue existing conditions looking east. 56 Three Rivers Park DistrictDraft December 6, 2010 Section VI | Development Concept North Mississippi Regional Park lies at the eastern terminus of the trail route. At its eastern end, the trail route crosses to the north side of 57th Avenue at the Camden Avenue intersection and then crosses the 57th Avenue Bridge over Interstate 94 to arrive at its destination, North Mississippi Re- gional Park. The bridge currently has sidewalks that do not meet regional trail standards. Based on the overall bridge deck width, the traffic lane widths could be narrowed and the sidewalk widened to accommodate the regional trail. From this key location, the trail provides further access to other trails and destinations along the Mississippi River. There are new opportunities created for loop trails through North Mississippi Regional Park to the existing City of Minneapolis trail along 49th Avenue and other trails. Corridor Width and Public Services The trail will primarily follow public streets. The right-of-way width of the various streets differs, and detailed right-of-way and property mapping should be consulted in any subsequent acquisition and design phases. Field review of the several existing bridge crossings along the trail route has revealed that the existing pedestrian and bicycle facilities on them do not meet current trail design standards. The Park District will continue to explore opportunities to upgrade these features on an incremental basis in conjunction with the appropriate jurisdictional agencies. In the west segment, the trail route exists as a 10 foot wide off-road bituminous trail in some locations and concrete trail in others. The trail improvements in this segment have recently been constructed as part of local road improvement projects. Extensive field review has revealed that Draft December 6, 2010Twin Lakes Regional Trail Master Plan 57 Section VI | Development Concept some segments meet the Park District’s design standards, while others do not. In light of their relatively recent construction, Three Rivers Park District intends to utilize the existing trail as-is for the time being. As local road reconstruction projects allow, the Park District intends to upgrade these non-conforming segments. Figure 17 below maps which segments are compliant. Table 16 on the next page summarizes the issues with dif- ferent segments and identifies potential reconfiguration options. Additionally, the jogging nature of the route in the West Segment, as it alternates between east-west and north-south streets, creates tight turn- ing radii at intersections and limited sight lines. Special provisions, such as signage informing users of the route ahead and mirrors, may be added to improve trail visibility if deemed appropriate. In the East Segment, the existing 57th Avenue roadway cross section does not provide adequate space between the curb and right-of-way limit to construct the trail to Park District design standards. At a minimum, the curb line will need to be altered on the south side to create the necessary space to accommodate the trail. Several options have been explored and are detailed later in this section. úÊÍÅÎ éÙÔÍÍÐ îÍÊÈÔÌÍÊÈ ìÛÊÑ úÊÍÍÑØÛÐ×ïÛÐÐúÑØÐïÐÐÊ úÍÍÑØÛÐ×ïÛÐÐ îÍÊÈÔÌÍÊÈ Ê ÈÈ éÙÔÍÍÐ ðÓÍÎÉ ìÛÊÑ ú×ÐÐÆÇ× ù×ÎÈ×ÊÚÊÍÍÑ ìÛÊÑ õÍÐÖùÍÇÊÉ× èÅÓÎðÛÑ×É BROOKLYN CENTER ÿü¾þ íÇÊðÛØÃ ÍÖæÓÙÈÍÊÃ éÙÔÍÍÐ á&à ß ôÛÌÌÃôÍÐÐÍÅ íÐÉÍÎòÇÎÓÍÊ ðÓÎØ ìÛÊÑ ôÓÕÔéÙÔÍÍÐ ùÊ××ÑÆÓ×Å éÙÔÍÍÐ ìÛÊÑ èÅÓÎðÛÑ×É ìÛÊÑ éÙÔÍÍÐ MINNEAPOLIS úÍÔÛÎÍÎ ìÛÊÑ Selected Regional Trail Alignment Trail to be Constructed Existing Trail Alignment èÅÓÎðÛÑ× Meets 2’ Clear Zones ìÛÊÑ Back of Curb Section (Restricted Width) Boulevard Section (Restricted Width) êÃÛÎðÛÑ× Overpass/Underpass (Restricted Width) Legend ôÇÏÌÔÊ×Ã Ê Schools å×Ú×Ê ìÛÊÑ ROBBINSDALE Regional Trails ìÛÊÑ Local Trails Planned Regional Trail - City of Mpls ðÛÑ×ÆÓ×Å æÓÙÈÍÊÃ ðÍÊÓÎÕôÛÏÓÐÈÍÎ Regional Parks éÙÔÍÍÐ éÙÔÍÍÐéÙÔÍÍÐ ìÛÊÑ Municipal Boundaries ô×ÎÊÃôÓÕÔ Local Parks éÙÔÍÍÐ Figure 17 Existing Regional Trail Conditions Assessment Map 58 Three Rivers Park DistrictDraft December 6, 2010 Section VI | Development Concept Draft December 6, 2010Twin Lakes Regional Trail Master Plan 59 Section VI | Development Concept Primary Trail Design Elements Trail Pavement The proposed unconstructed segments of trail will be designed in accor- dance with applicable guidelines established by the American Association of State Highway Transportation Officials (AASHTO), the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), Minnesota Department of Transportation, and State Aid for Local Transportation. The preferred trail cross section is ten feet wide with a three-foot grass clear-zone on each side and a bitumi- nous surface. Bituminous trail surface is preferred surface treatment be- cause it is a cost effective, does not migrate toward adjacent properties, and is less prone to erosion than aggregate surfaces. Bituminous trails offer a wide variety of trail uses including bicycling, walking, running, and in-line skating, which are popular activities on other Three Rivers Park District regional trails. In addition, most of the existing trail segments of the Twin Lakes Regional Trail have bituminous surfaces. Some segments previously constructed near Brookdale Mall are concrete. Trail Crossings The urban setting for the Twin Lakes Regional Trail requires that it coex- ist with the higher volume roadways that serve transportation needs. In particular, the trail route crosses TH 100 twice and I-94 once at grade- separated conditions as described previously. The investigation of options to improve and maintain existing trail segments that currently do not meet trail standards will be critical in preserving the trail’s continuity. There are also numerous locations where the trail traverses established roadways at-grade and one railroad as well. Measures will be taken to inform the roadway and trail users of each other’s presence, and to con- trol traffic flow accordingly. Generally, where the trail crosses a roadway, the crossing will be marked with safety signage and surface paint to alert motorists and trail users. As vehicular traffic further increases, there may be a need for additional traffic signals or modifications to existing signal- ized intersections. Heightened design attention will also be necessary for driveway and al- ley crossings which will be marked with signage to alert trail users of the upcoming crossing. General warning signs may be placed in areas with greater congestion. In all cases, existing vegetation and other potential visual obstructions will be evaluated and additional vegetation will not be planted in the required clear-zones so sight lines can be maintained. Spe- cial provisions, such as mirrors, may be added to improve trail visibility from driveways if deemed appropriate. 60 Three Rivers Park DistrictDraft December 6, 2010 Section VI | Development Concept Regional trail crosswalk at Xerxes Avenue and 55th Avenue. Supporting Trail Elements Trail head access, signage, and rest stops are important elements of re- gional trails. Their proper design and placement add both aesthetic and functional value to the trail. Trailheads - Kiosks Trailheads are important elements because they provide amenities visi- tors seek to prepare for trail use and a location for trail access. Primary trailheads on the Twin Lakes Regional Trail are located at Twin Lakes Park and at North Mississippi Regional Park. They include standard Park Dis- trict trail signage to provide orientation. Other trail head amenities may include parking, rest-room facilities, drinking water, benches or tables, bicycle racks, trash receptacles, and space for people to prepare before getting on the trail. Additionally, an orientation point is located mid-way along the route on the north side of Brookdale Mall. Wayfinding Signage The unique nature of this regional trail in an urban setting requires direc- tional and identification route signage at strategic points to delineate the route for users. Signs should be used to provide: 1. Direction to the next trail segment when gaps exist within the network. 2. Information and direction to other user amenities, such as drink- ing fountains, rest rooms, bicycle racks, etc. 3. Visual identification of the trail system. 4. Distances to other regional trails/parks and community destina- tions. Draft December 6, 2010Twin Lakes Regional Trail Master Plan 61 Section VI | Development Concept Traffic control signs, such as stop signs at road crossings and street name signs at bridges and intersections, will be installed on the trail. Informa- tional and directional signage will be consistent with the Park District’s system-wide Trail Signage Plan. Three Rivers Park District utilizes three levels of signage it employs for wayfinding as described below. System Kiosk •Located at beginning/end of trail and at halfway point if trail is greater than 10 miles. •Includes Three Rivers Park District Regional Trail Map, regional trail rules and general information. Regional Trail Kiosk •Located approximately every 2 miles. •Includes Regional trail map and a two–mile by two-mile aerial cen- tered on kiosk depicting points of interest and support facilities (bath- rooms, food, parking, etc). Directional Signage •Located approximately every mile; directs users to other trails, parks and commercial destinations. •Includes mileage to beginning and end of regional trail as well as di- rection and mileage to significant points of interest within 1 mile that are: •Connected to the regional trail via an existing trail, and •Have a regional draw and/or serve the regional trail users (bath- rooms, water, parking, etc). The Selected Twin Lakes Regional Trail Alignment Map (Figure 16/p53) shows existing and proposed signage locations recently installed by the Park District. Three Rivers Park District trail kiosk 62 Three Rivers Park DistrictDraft December 6, 2010 Section VI | Development Concept Trail Traffic Signage and Devices In addition to informational and wayfinding signage, Three Rivers Park District engineering staff will review and develop plans for providing traf- fic control signs and devices, such as trail stop signs and center line pave- ment markings. Signs and devices should reflect the physical characteris- tics and usability of individual trail segments and the system as a whole. Thus, as a trail segments are developed (or reconstructed with adjacent roadway projects), trail signs and devices may require modification. The cost to add traffic control signs and devices to a regional trail in a first-ring suburb is approximately $3,000 per trail mile. Rest Stops Rest stops on regional trails are useful elements because they provide places for trail users to exit the trail and an area for amenities that are not generally found mid-corridor such as trash receptacles, benches and bicycle racks. These simple but important amenities can serve to rein- force understanding of the trail route as users pass through and improve user experiences when a respite is needed. Locations for rest stops will be evaluated and incorporated into the design of the Twin Lakes Regional Trail as appropriate as part of the design implementation. Existing rest stop along the regional trail on Xerxes Avenue. Drainage In many locations, the drainage of the trail is similar to that of a typical sidewalk. As such, storm flow sheets over the trail pavement and onto the adjacent roadway, where it is collected and conveyed by the roadway stormwater drainage system. In areas where the trail is on an independent alignment, such as through parks or other green spaces, the trail must be designed to function during periods of wet weather. Stormwater must shed rapidly from the surface of the trail, and concentrated flows must be conveyed beneath the trail surface, so as not to create a hazardous situation for the users. Draft December 6, 2010Twin Lakes Regional Trail Master Plan 63 Section VI | Development Concept Typical Trail Cross Sections As noted earlier, some segments of the route are constructed while oth- ers require further planning and design to determine how to incorporate the preferred typical trail section into the existing neighborhood fabric. Following are illustrations of potential options for implementing the un- constructed trail segments on 57th Avenue from Logan Avenue east to North Mississippi Regional Park. Additional investigation is needed for fi- nal design. Final design may follow one of these options shown or lead to the development of a new cross section configuration. Along 57th Avenue, the trail route follows the south side of the road where there is currently an existing sidewalk. The right-of-way between Logan Avenue and Dupont Avenue is 60 feet. All options explored suggest that the curb to curb roadway width would require narrowing to provide a wider trail and required clear zones. Options explored included removal of the parking bay on one side of the street, or both. East of Dupont, the same modifications noted above hold true, and additionally, the right of way narrows to 50’. The potential cross sections are described and illus- trated in further detail on the following pages. In any roadway modification, the location of the existing crown of the roadway pavement is ideally centered between the two travel lanes. If the median crown needs to move, it requires the full reconstruction of the roadway. With the modification of the south curb line, any storm sewer in that location would require reconfiguration. The location of the overhead utility poles shown is approximate and may vary in actual field conditions. A detailed analysis of all other utilities in the corridor should be undertaken in subsequent design phases utilizing detailed as-built util- ity drawings. Table 17 57th Avenue Roadway Cross Section Comparison Matrix OptionRoad WidthParkingMedian Stays Within CrownROW 60’ ROW A32’south sidemovesyes B32’north sidesameyes C26’nonemovesyes 50’ ROW A32’south sidemovesno B32’north sidesameno C26’nonemovesyes 64 Three Rivers Park DistrictDraft December 6, 2010 Section VI | Development Concept 60’ Right-of-Way (Note: All cross sections are shown looking east with the proposed trail on the south side of 57th Avenue.) Figure 18 Option A - 57th Avenue Potential Cross Section (Logan Ave to Dupont Ave/60’ ROW) Figure 19 Option B - 57th Avenue Potential Cross Section (Logan Ave to Dupont Ave/60’ ROW) Figure 20 Option C - 57th Avenue Potential Cross Section (Logan Ave to Dupont Ave/60’ ROW) Draft December 6, 2010Twin Lakes Regional Trail Master Plan 65 Section VI | Development Concept 50’ Right-of-Way (Note: All cross sections are shown looking east with the proposed trail on the south side of 57th Avenue.) Figure 21 Option A - 57th Avenue Potential Cross Section (Dupont Avenue to I-94/50’ ROW) Figure 22 Option B - 57th Avenue Potential Cross Section (Dupont Avenue to I-94/50’ ROW) Figure 23 Option C - 57th Avenue Potential Cross Section (Dupont Avenue to I-94/50’ ROW) 66 Three Rivers Park DistrictDraft December 6, 2010 Section VII | Operations & Maintenance Plan Operations & Maintenance Plan Twin Lakes Regional Trail is operated under Three Rivers Park District ordinances and policies. The trail is overseen by professional operations and maintenance staff. Services and maintenance staffing levels increase as needed and as funding permits through the employment of seasonal staff. Park Service Officers and Park Police Officers provide public safety services. Volunteers also assist with trail patrol. Maintenance services for Twin Lakes Regional Trail are provided by maintenance operations ema- nating from Elm Creek Park Reserve. Ordinances Three Rivers Park District Board of Commissioners has adopted a set of ordinances that define the rules and regulations of Three Rivers Park District in order to provide for the safe and peaceful use of the parks and corresponding facilities; for the educational and recreational benefits and enjoyment of the public; for the protection and preservation of the property, facilities and natural resources; and for the safety and general welfare of the public. A copy of the ordinances may be obtained from the Three Rivers Park Dis- trict Web site (www.ThreeRiversParkDistrict.org). Rules and regulations are also posted throughout Three Rivers Park District properties and fa- cilities. Posted information includes park hours, permitted and prohibited activities, fees, map of the park and/or trails, and who to contact in case of an emergency. As funding permits, Three Rivers Park District Police and Park Service Officers regularly patrol all property and trails on foot and by bicycle and motor vehicles. When necessary, ordinances may be enforced via citations. Operations—Public safety The Public Safety Section consists of Park Police Officers, Park Service Officers, seasonal security staff, and support staff. Park Police Officers are licensed peace officers in the State of Minnesota and have the au- thority to arrest and detain criminal offenders and enforce a variety of traffic laws just like other law-enforcement officers throughout the state. Officers are trained and certified as Emergency Medical Technicians and First Responders. Park Police Officers strive to be proactive and utilize a variety of alternative patrol techniques that include horse-mounted, bi- cycle, electric scooter and four-wheel ATV patrols. Park Service Officers have enforcement authority as well, but it is limited to minor park offenses. Additionally, Park Service Officers are trained and Draft December 6, 2010Twin Lakes Regional Trail Master Plan 67 Section VII | Operations & Maintenance Plan certified as Emergency Medical Technicians and First Responders. Park Service Officers are an important component of the Public Safety func- tion, and communicate directly with the Park Police Officers when they observe suspicious or criminal behavior. Park Service Officers are very knowledgeable about park activities and readily assist with traffic flow, parking issues, and park guest information as well as administer first aid to park users who are ill or injured. Three Rivers Park District’s Public Safety Plan includes the general patrol of regional parks, park reserves and regional trails by a Park Police Of- ficer or Park Service Officer. Many high-volume parks have a Park Service Officer stationed at the respective park to be readily available to provide assistance to park users. Park service of¿ cer on bike patrol Mutual Aid Three Rivers Park District participates in a statewide mutual aid program that facilitates the sharing of public safety resources in times of emer- gency or other unusual conditions. This program serves to facilitate the assistance received from surrounding police agencies. Staffing Three Rivers Park District uses a combination of Park Service Officers and certified Park Police Officers for Trail Patrol on the Twin Lakes Regional Trail. Additional seasonal staff may be hired to support the safe and ef- ficient operation of the Twin Lakes Trail system. Public Safety staff is deployed from various offices throughout the six-county Park District. Specific patrol of the Twin Lakes Trail will be the primary responsibility of Trail Patrol staff assigned to French Regional Park, however all public safety staff patrol trails on an as needed basis or when call load presents an opportunity to conduct alternative patrol. 68 Three Rivers Park DistrictDraft December 6, 2010 Section VII | Operations & Maintenance Plan Operations—Maintenance Due to extensive property holdings, geographic distribution of facilities and the need to create an efficient and cost-effective work force, Three Rivers Park District organizes and budgets maintenance services in six geographic clusters that provide maintenance service Three Rivers Park District regional parks, park reserves and regional trails. The Elm Creek Work Cluster provides maintenance services for the Twin Lakes Regional Trail. Many sections of the Twin Lakes Regional Trail as being assumed by the Park District have non-standard regional trail characteristics including trail design, trail width, trail shoulders and surfaces. Maintenance operations will not be typical as compared to other Park District regional trail cor- ridors. Maintenance operations will be limited to seasonal condition as- sessments and periodic inspections, followed by necessary maintenance actions. Inspections will address possible safety issues, vandalism and non-routine maintenance concerns. The Park District will also respond to maintenance issues identified by the public, on a timely basis, as funding permits. Trail bridge and underpass structures are inspected on an an- nual basis with visual review as part of ongoing maintenance operations. (We need to find out who owns the bridges and who is responsible for what) Extraordinary maintenance occurs in response to storm damage, vandalism or other unplanned circumstances. The Twin Lakes Regional Trail expansion will receive scheduled striping, seal coating and redevelopment under Three Rivers Park District’s pave- ment management program and in accordance with Park District stan- dards and as funding permits. The Park District will also seek opportuni- ties to work with the county and city in conjunction with road projects to improve trail design and surfacing, Proposed Maintenance Activities Three Rivers Park District’s present policy provides for the operation of the trail from April 1 to November 15. Local municipalities wishing to offer winter use of the trail may apply for a winter trail operations permit from Three Rivers Park District. If winter operations are permitted, the local municipality is responsible for operations and maintenance. Limited additional staffing and equipment are needed to operate and maintain the trail corridor; however, some equipment and staffing re- sources will be shared with the existing Three Rivers Park District main- tenance operations emanating from the Elm Creek Work Cluster. Routine maintenance is outlined below. Draft December 6, 2010Twin Lakes Regional Trail Master Plan 69 Section VI | Operations & Maintenance •April and May: Sign inventory and replacement, spring clean- up, limited mowing, trash pickup, bridge and underpass repair, as needed. •June, July, August and September: Erosion repair, fence repair, sign and post replacement, trail trimming, mowing, weed control, trash pickup, bridge and boardwalk repair (as needed). •October and November: bituminous patching and striping re- placement, as needed. •December to March: No planned operations or maintenance dur- ing winter unless permitted to area cities and/or Three Rivers Park District elects to conduct winter trail activities. •Throughout the year and storm-related damage: Periodic trail sweeping and clean-up, as needed. Several specific management/maintenance programs are in place to en- sure a safe, user-friendly experience to all trail programs. •Sign Maintenance: Directional, safety, regulatory, interpretive and informational signage is typically installed during trail devel- opment. During the operational season, signage is inspected as part of the routine inspection and maintenance tasks. •Sweeping/Blowing/Vacuuming: Natural debris such as leaves, acorns, twigs and grass clippings may be swept, blown or vacu- umed on a periodic basis. Extraordinary maintenance may be re- quired in the event of storm debris and conducted in cooperation with the city. •Pavement Management Program: Pavement management is a systematic method for tracking and addressing pavement condi- tions at a District-wide level. The pavement management program greatly enhances Three Rivers Park District’s ability to perform preventive maintenance and optimize pavement condition and performance. The pavement management system provides Three Rivers Park District with a tool to assist in making consistent, cost- effective decisions about maintaining and preserving the pave- ment investment. •Contractual Services:Three Rivers Park District may contract for trail striping services, and pothole and crack repairing on an as-needed basis. •Trail/Bridge Repair: Trails and bridges are inspected annually in the spring as part of the pre-season maintenance program and are then inspected periodically by Three Rivers Park District main- tenance staff as part of ongoing operations. Minor trail repair is handled on a timely basis, and probable major repair needs are 70 Three Rivers Park DistrictDraft December 6, 2010 Section VI | Operations & Maintenance evaluated and recommended to Three Rivers Park District man- agement for planning or engineering review. Major projects are submitted to Three Rivers Park District Board of Commissioners for funding as part of the annual operating budget, preservation and rehabilitation program, or capital improvement program. •Noxious Weed Management: Three Rivers Park District me- chanically or chemically removes noxious weeds at the request of cities. •Edge/Trail Shoulder Vegetation Management: Due to the unique existing trail design and location of the trail, typical region- al trail vegetation management practices do not apply. The city will continue to maintain road easements and other right of ways that have not transferred to the Park District, and tree canopies that are in close relationship to the trail surface in a manner that does not negatively affect trail use. The Park District will maintain vegetative clearances so as not to negatively affect trail use on any sections where trail shoulder vegetation exists. Maintenance staff mowing the trail edge Public Awareness Three Rivers Park District’s Marketing Communications Section manages a centralized marketing communications function that oversees public relations, marketing, media relations, the website, brand management, event planning and promotion. A number of effective marketing and outreach tools are used to promote Three Rivers Park District, including Draft December 6, 2010Twin Lakes Regional Trail Master Plan 71 Section VIII | Operations & Maintenance Plan but not limited to an annual distribution of District-wide map, the website, direct mail, press releases, centralized reservation system, feedback phone line, brochures, ads and on-site promotion. Three Rivers Park District collaborates with a wide array of community, business and government organizations to promote its facilities, programs and services, and to educate the public about its resources. Three Rivers Park District also works with the Metropolitan Regional Parks System and the State Office of Tourism to leverage shared opportunities for creating awareness and visibility and works with the county agencies to provide information about scholarship programs available to individuals receiving economic assistance. 72 Three Rivers Park DistrictDraft December 6, 2010 Section VIII | Estimated Costs & Funding Estimated Costs & Funding Trail implementation has both initial costs (acquisition and development) and ongoing costs (operations and maintenance). Trail development will occur as opportunities to coordinate with other agencies/projects occur, funding becomes available, and at the discretion of the Three Rivers Park District Board of Commissioners. Individual development projects may move forward to coincide with development adjacent to the trail corridor for purposes of cost savings. Boundaries & Acquisition Costs As part of the Trailway Cooperative Agreement with the City of Brooklyn Center, the City of Brooklyn Center conveyed a Public Trailway Easement that provides a contiguous and continuous corridor for the existing trail at the west end of the proposed Twin Lakes Regional Trail route. Also as part of the agreement, the city conveyed a Public Trailway Easement for the proposed trail extension to North Mississippi Regional Park. Certain bridge and grade crossings require agreements with third parties such as Hennepin County and the Minnesota Department of Transportation. Discussions have been initiated with the City of Robbinsdale regarding several areas identified where additional right-of-way is necessary. Development Costs Trail development includes the cost to prepare the site, reconfigure road- ways as required, modify drainage patterns where necessary, pave the trail, and install signage, striping, and landscaping. As described previ- ously, much of the trail route exists west of the Bass Lake Road and TH 100 interchange area requiring minimal initial capital expenditure except where there are missing links. The new trail construction extends from roughly Bass Lake Road and TH 100 to North Mississippi Regional Park along 57th Avenue and will include roadway reconstruction to accommo- date the regional trail. Other factors to consider include bridge modifica- tions and short potential additional routes that were identified. In total, the estimated development cost for the Twin Lakes Regional Trail is be- tween $2.9 million and $4.2 million. See Appendix D - Detailed Cost Esti- mate for further information. Operating costs In order to maximize operating resources, Three Rivers Park District maintains geographically dispersed work units for maintenance, public safety, and facility and program services. Natural Resources Management Draft December 6, 2010Twin Lakes Regional Trail Master Plan 73 Section VIII | Estimated Costs & Funding services are dispersed on a system-wide basis. Three Rivers Park District monitors all resources needed to provide support services across Three Rivers Park District work units. Current-year operating costs include an estimate of labor hours expended at the park unit, commodities and contracted services directly charged to the park unit. Administrative and management costs are not included in the estimates. The estimates for future operating budget expenditures, as reflected in this Master Plan, represent anticipated additional costs incurred by District-wide or geographical work units as capital development is implemented. All operating costs and associated staff/equipment are subject to the annual operating budget preparation process administered by the Superintendent and are considered formally by the Board of Commissioners. Maintenance operating costs Due to the cost savings associated with providing maintenance through geographically dispersed work clusters, much of the maintenance equipment and tools needed for maintenance of planned facilities are already in place. At the time the Master Plan is fully implemented, the annual routine maintenance costs are estimated to increase by $10,000 in 2010 dollars, primary for sign replacements and seasonal labor. Additional costs for trail preservation and rehabilitation activities (i.e. trail surface repairs, striping replacement and pavement management) are anticipated and depend on trail conditions identified through seasonal inspections. These costs will be included in the Park District annual Asset Management Program. Public safety operating costs The increase in projected annual operating costs for Public Safety services is estimated to be $85,000, which accounts for the salary and benefits of an additional park Police Officer and up to three new seasonal staff assigned to Trail Patrol. Initially, the expense and staffing of the Twin Lakes Trail will be absorbed by current Public Safety budgeting and staff, however a higher anticipated call load and commensurate staff presence is anticipated for proper patrol in this area. Estimated equipment cost of $7,500 for uniforms and associated duty gear, radios, etc. will also be needed upon hiring of additional Trail Patrol staff. This is also and estimated initial cost of $30,000 for a trail patrol police vehicle. Natural resources operating costs Due to the urbanized location of the Twin Lakes Regional trail, no additional costs for natural resources management are anticipated. 74 Three Rivers Park DistrictDraft December 6, 2010 Section VIII | Estimated Costs & Funding Funding Sources Annual operating costs are funded through Three Rivers Park District General Fund Budget. The primary source of funds is property tax. With some revenue received from the State of Minnesota as part of the Operations and Maintenance Fund allocations from the Metropolitan Council. Some of the annual rehabilitation costs also may be funded from Three Rivers Park District’s Park Maintenance and Rehabilitation Fund, which includes revenues allocated to Three Rivers Park District from the State of Minnesota Lottery as well as Three Rivers Park District general obligation bonds. The Metropolitan Council and State of Minnesota provide funding for acquisition, development and redevelopment projects through the Regional Parks Capital Improvement Program (CIP). The development proposed in this Master Plan may be funded through the Regional Parks CIP, through Three Rivers Park District bond, donations and/or funding sources that may be available at the time of development. Opportunities for Federal funding may also be explored. All operating costs and associated staff/equipment are subject to the annual operating budget preparation process administered by the Superintendent and considered formally by the Board of Commissioners. Other Revenue Three Rivers Park District does not charge an entrance fee to any of its parks and trails. Draft December 6, 2010Twin Lakes Regional Trail Master Plan 75 Section VIII | Estimated Costs & Funding This page left intentionally blank 76 Three Rivers Park DistrictDraft December 6, 2010 Appendix A | Resolutions of Support APPENDIX A Resolutions of Support Draft December 6, 2010Twin Lakes Regional Trail Master Plan 77 Appendix A | Resolutions of Support This page left intentionally blank 78 Three Rivers Park DistrictDraft December 6, 2010 Appendix B | Trail Plans APPENDIX B - Trail Plans On the following pages, Appendix B includes enlarged plans of the trail route beginning at Bottineau Boulevard, the west terminus, and moving sequentially to the east terminus at North Mississippi Re- gional Park. The Key Map below includes location identifiers for each plan area as it relates to the overall route. The abbreviation “W1” indicates “West Segment 1” and the abbreviation “E1” indicates “East Segment 1.” Key Map of Trail Route Enlarged Plans Þ®±±µ´§² Ý»²¬»® Û¨·¬·²¹ Ì©·² Ô¿µ» Ì®¿·´ W13 W17 Ì®¿²·¬ Þ¿ Ô¿µ» Î¼ Ð®±°±»¼ Ì©·² Ô¿µ» Ì®¿·´ Ý»²¬»® ëé¬¸ ßª» Î»¹·±²¿´ Ì®¿·´ W14W15 ÚÎ×ÜÔÛÇ E2E3E4E5E6 ððòîëðòë W16 Þ®±±µ¼¿´» Ó·´» Ó¿´´ Ü»·®»¼ Ô±²¹óÌ»®³ E1 W12 Ý±²²»½¬·±² ÞÎÑÑÕÔÇÒ ÝÛÒÌÛÎ ×²¬»®·³ Ý±²²»½¬·±² Ð±¬»²¬·¿´ Ú«¬«®» W11 Ì®¿·´ Ý±²²»½¬·±² W9 ¼_Ãªâ´ëí®¼ ßª» ëí®¼ ßª» W10 ÿü¾þ W8 Ó×ÒÒÛßÐÑÔ×Í áàß& W7 W6 ëð¬¸ ßª» Ò±®¬¸ Ó···°°· Î»¹·±²¿´ ìç¬¸ ßª» Ò Ð¿®µ W4 ¿²¼ Ì®¿·´ W5 ùèé W3 ÆYª â´ Ð±¬»²¬·¿´ Ú«¬«®» W2 Ì®¿·´ Ý±²²»½¬·±² W1 ÎÑÞÞ×ÒÍÜßÔÛ Ó»³±®·¿´ Ð¿®µ©¿§ Î»¹·±²¿´ Ì®¿·´ Ê·½¬±®§ Ó»³±®·¿´ Ðµ©§ Ð´¿²²»¼Ì©·² Ô¿µ» Ð¿®µ Ý®§¬¿´ Ô¿µ» Î»¹·±²¿´ Ì®¿·´ Draft December 6, 2010Twin Lakes Regional Trail Master Plan 79 Appendix B | Trail Plans 80 Three Rivers Park DistrictDraft December 6, 2010 Appendix B | Trail Plans ûÂ×ÐÓÛûÆ×î èÅÓÎðÛÑ×ûÆ×î Draft December 6, 2010Twin Lakes Regional Trail Master Plan 81 Appendix B | Trail Plans ûÂ×ÐÓÛûÆ×î 82 Three Rivers Park DistrictDraft December 6, 2010 Appendix B | Trail Plans öÊÛÎÙ×ûÆ× Draft December 6, 2010Twin Lakes Regional Trail Master Plan 83 Appendix B | Trail Plans ÊØûÆ×î 84 Three Rivers Park DistrictDraft December 6, 2010 Appendix B | Trail Plans øÊ×ÅûÆ×î ÷ÅÓÎÕûÆ×î Draft December 6, 2010Twin Lakes Regional Trail Master Plan 85 Appendix B | Trail Plans 86 Three Rivers Park DistrictDraft December 6, 2010 Appendix B | Trail Plans Draft December 6, 2010Twin Lakes Regional Trail Master Plan 87 Appendix B | Trail Plans úÛÉÉðÛÑ×êØùéûô 88 Three Rivers Park DistrictDraft December 6, 2010 Appendix B | Trail Plans Draft December 6, 2010Twin Lakes Regional Trail Master Plan 89 Appendix B | Trail Plans 90 Three Rivers Park DistrictDraft December 6, 2010 Appendix B | Trail Plans Draft December 6, 2010Twin Lakes Regional Trail Master Plan 91 Appendix B | Trail Plans This page left intentionally blank 92 Three Rivers Park DistrictDraft December 6, 2010 Appendix C | Wetland Descriptions APPENDIX C - Wetland Descriptions Wetland TypeSoilHydrologyVegetationCommon Sites Varies greatly according Covered with water or to season and duration of Upland depressions, Usually well-drained during waterlogged during the flooding from bottomland bottomland hardwoods 1 much of the growing season variable seasonal periodshardwoods to herbaceous (floodplain forests) plants May fill shallow basins, Usually without standing sloughs, or farmland sags; Saturated or nearly saturated water during most of may border shallow marshes Grasses, sedges, rushes, during most of the growing the growing season but on the landward side and 2 various broadleaved plants seasonwaterlogged within at least a include low prairies, sedge few inches of the surfacemeadows, and calcareous fens Grasses; bulrushes; spikerush; May nearly fill shallow lake and various other marsh basins or sloughs; may border Usually water logged during Often covered with 6” or plants, such as cattail, deep marshes on landward 3 the growing seasonmore of water arrowhead, pickereralweed, side, commonly as seep and smartweedareas near irrigated lands Cattail; reed; bulrush; May completely fill shallow Usually covered with 6” to 3’ Usually covered with 6” to 3’ spikerush; and wild rice; open lake basins, potholes, or more of water during the or more of water during the area may have pond weed, limestone sinks, and sloughs; 4 growing seasongrowing seasonduckweed, waterlily, and may border open water in spatterdocksuch depressions Fringe of emergent Usually covered with less than Shallow lake basins and may vegetation: pond weed, Inundated10-foot-deep water; includes border large open water 5 duckweed, waterlily, and shallow ponds and reservoirsbasins spatterdock Often covered with as much Includes alder, willow, Along sluggish streams, Usually waterlogged during as 6” of water; water table is buttonbrush, dogwood, and drainage depressions, and 6 the growing season at or near the surfaceswamp privetoccasionally on floodplains Hardwood and coniferous swamps with tamarack, northern white cedar, black Mostly in shallow ancient lake Waterlogged within a few Often covered with as much spruce, balsam fir, balsam basins, old riverine oxbows, inches of the surface during as 1’ of water; water table is 7 poplar, red maple, and flat terrains, and along the growing seasonnear the surface black ash, deciduous sites sluggish streams frequently support beds of duckweed and smartweed Woody, herbaceous, or supporting a spongy covering of mosses; typical Mostly on shallow glacial plants are heath shrubs, Usually waterlogged during Water table at or near the lake basins and depressions, sphagnum mosses, sedges, 8 the growing seasonsurfaceflat terrain, along sluggish leatherleaf, Labrador tea, streams cranberry, and cottongrass; may include stunted black spruce and tamarack Draft December 6, 2010Twin Lakes Regional Trail Master Plan 93 Appendix C | Wetland Descriptions This page left intentionally blank 94 Three Rivers Park DistrictDraft December 6, 2010 Appendix E | Detailed Cost Estimate APPENDIX D - Detailed Cost Estimate smaenosmae EtitdUitfEtitd Project Cost Estimate QuantityMeasurementUnit Cost Estimated Total Cost Bottineau Boulevard to Bass Lake Road/TH 100 (West Segment) Existing Trail Reconstruction to TRPD standards Existing Trail Pavement Removals7300Lin Ft12$87,600$ Trail Reconstruction7300Lin Ft50$365,000$ Right of Way or Easements 29200Sq Ft10$292,000$ (see note 6 below) Total$ 744,600 West Segment Missing Lin k Option A - Twin Lakes Avenue Trail Construction600Lin Ft50$30,000$ Right of Way or Easements 2400Sq Ft10$24,000$ (see note 6 below) Total$ 54,000 Option B - Lakeside Avenue to Azelia Avenue Trail Construction1400Lin Ft50$70,000$ Right of Way or Easements 6400Sq Ft10$64,000$ (see note 6 below) Total$ 134,000 Brooklyn Boulevard and 55th Avenue Intersection Crossing1Lump Sum25,000$25,000$ Bass Lake Road/TH 100 to North Mississippi Regional Park (East Segment) 57th Avenue Trail Construction and Roadway Modifications * See notes 8 through 11 below Option A Road and Trail Construction4500Lin Ft410$1,845,000$ * Assumes full reconstruction of road see note 10 below () Right of Way or Easements4200Sq Ft10$42,000$ * Assumes 3' width easement east of Duont p Total1,887,000$ Option B Road and Trail Construction4500Lin Ft120$540,000$ * Assumes artial reconstruction of road see note 11 below p() Right of Way or Easements7000Sq Ft10$70,000$ * Assumes 5' width easement east of Duont p Total610,000$ Option C Road and Trail Construction4500Lin Ft380$1,710,000$ * Assumes full reconstruction of road see note 10 below () Right of Way or Easements0Sq Ft10$-$ * Assumes no additional easement east of Duont p Total1,710,000$ Bridges Potential Replacement Pedestrian Bridge over TH 1001Lump Sum1,200,000$1,200,000$ Bass Lake Road (CSAH 10) Bridge over TH 100 Re-decking0Lump Sum-$-$ * Assumes no bride deck widenin reuiredsee note 12 below ggq() 57th Avenue Bridge over I-94 Modifications1Lump Sum180,000$180,000$ ssumesexstngrgewtssucenttoaccommoatetraseenote *Aiibididhiffiidil(13 below) Total Project Construction Cost Estimate Range2,900,000$ Dependent on Options Electedto $4,200,000 Notes: 1. Estimates include a minimum additional 20% contingency factor for unforeseen costs. 2. Estimates are based on current 2010 construction costs. 3. Estimates do not include design, engineering, and administration. 4. Existing trail removal assumes 10' wide bituminous trail 5. Existing trail reconstruction assumes 10' wide bituminous trail, turf establishment, and signage. 6. Right of way or easement required for existing trail to be reconstructed and missing link assumed 4' wide for entire length. Final design should confirm actual needs. 7. Brooklyn Boulevard and 55th Avenue intersection assumes pavement and crosswalk construction only - no signal modifications. 8. 57th Ave. estimate includes pavement removals, new roadway pavement, curb and gutter, trail pavement, 2 concrete driveways per block face, storm sewer reconfiguration, and turf establishment. 9. 57th Ave. estimate does not include any sanitary sewer or water main upgrades, retaining walls, or streetscaping such as boulevard trees and decorative lighting. 10. 57th Ave. Concepts A and C shift vehicle travel lanes requiring full reconstruction to establish new pavement crown in appropriate location. 11. 57th Ave. Concept B maintains existing location of vehicle travel lanes so most roadway pavement could remain. South curb line reconstructed. 12. Bass Lake Road Bridge over TH 100 Re-decking planned by Mn/DOT in 2013 is preliminarily thought to accommodate an expanded trail width that meets standards without widening the deck. No additional cost to the Twin Lakes Regional Trail project assumed. 13. 57th Avenue Bridge over I-94 Modifications assume bridge width is sufficient to widen trail area 7.5 feet on north side including a barrier and still accommodate vehicle traffic. Resulting trail width is 14' clear (10' trail with 2' clear zones each side). Draft December 6, 2010Twin Lakes Regional Trail Master Plan 95 Appendix E | Detailed Cost Estimate 96 Three Rivers Park DistrictDraft December 6, 2010