8.2 PRSR 08-12-2020
The Elk River Vision
A welcoming community with revolutionary and spirited resourcefulness, exceptional
service, and community engagement that encourages and inspires prosperity
Request for Action
To
Parks and Recreation Commission
Item Number
8.2
Agenda Section
Discussion
Meeting Date
August 12, 2020
Prepared by
Michael Hecker, Parks and Recreation Director
Item Description
Athletic Field and Parkland Analysis
Reviewed by
Cal Portner, City Administrator
Reviewed by
Action Requested
Discussion of city’s athletic facilities
Background/Discussion
The Parks and Recreation Master Plan adopted by City Council June of 2015 provides direction for the
Council, Commission, and staff to guide them in the big picture decision making such as the
improvements that have been made in our park system from Rivers Edge Commons Park, Woodland
Trails to Orono and YAC.
The Parks Master Plan, page 21 Athletics, states “The city’s facilities have not kept pace with the city’s
growth, and the increasing demands for open field space for soccer, lacrosse and football on these fields
has become scarce. Youth softball and baseball programs also compete for enough field space to
accommodate demand.” Complicating the field demand are changes in many youth sports organizations
with more girls participating, the addition of an Elk River community fastpitch association and the
growth of lacrosse and soccer. Further, the opening of our new multipurpose field house may increase
the recruitment of new turf users.
A needs and use analysis of athletic and park facility would be helpful for not only meeting current needs,
but preparing for future needs. This would include reviewing current national and local trends, current
field configurations and athletic participation projections for all youth sports organizations during the
next 5-7 years. Site assessments including the conditions/needs of our current athletic fields can also
assist in a comprehensive study.
Does the Commission recommend an analysis of our athletic and park lands be reviewed?
Financial Impact
N/A
Attachments
N/A