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5.1. PCSR 08-24-2021 Request for Action City of River To Item Number Planning Commission 5.1 Agenda Section Meeting Date Prepared by Public Hearing August 24, 2021 Zack Carlton,Planning Manager Item Description Reviewed by Comprehensive Plan Update Chris Leeseber , Senior Planner Reviewed by Action Requested Recommend,by motion, approval of the 2021 Comprehensive Plan updated. Background/Discussion The Comprehensive Plan Advisory Committee and city staff have been working with Houseal Lavigne and Associates to update the city's Comprehensive Plan. This document guides the planning and development of the city for the next 10 to 20 years and enforcement of the plan is the Planning Commission's primary duty. Representatives from Houseal Lavigne will present the plan and be available for questions and comments from the Commission as well as members of the public. Financial Impact None Mission/Policy/Goal Support the growth and development of the city. Attachments ■ Draft Comprehensive Plan The Elk River Vision P 0 N E R E 0 0 Y A n)elcoming community with revolutionary and spiTzted resourcefulness, exceptional INATUREI service, and community engagement that encourages and inspires prospeTzty. Updated.August 2020 CITY OF ELK RIVER COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE DRAFT AUGUST 3, 2021 Lj City of Elk x River _ y di or IN= Y n s� ' ` ---- H DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY Acknowledgments DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY Table of Contents Chapter I: Introduction............................................................................................................................................ Chapter 2: CommunityContext.................................................................................................................... Chapter 3: LandUse Plan...................................................................................................................................25 Chapter 4: HousingPlan.......................................................................................................................................31 Chapter 5: Economic Development Plan ..........................................................................................51 Chapter 6: Transportation & Mobility Plan....................................................................................... 75 Chapter 7: Infrastructure & Urban Service Area Management Plan......................95 Chapter 8: Parks,Open Space & Natural Resources Plan..............................................105 Chapter 9: Implementation Plan............................................................................................................. 117 DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY V w� K �a `' -•=-,acs s� MIMM I N An� tA s` IV 4 W. Between 1990 and 2018 the City of Elk River saw a 54%increase w� in its population.Two decades into the 21st Century and Elk ' t. ~ River is projected to continue to experience consistent popu- lation growth through 2035.The City of Elk River finds itself navigating a critical crossroads,where land use and devel- opment decisions made today will define the community for generations. ' The City's growth,availability of land within the current Urban _ Service Area,and mix of land uses,makes planning for the future of the community essential to maintaining the high quality of life Elk River residents enjoy today.The decisions, investments,and actions taken over the life of the Plan will ' establish a foundation for what Elk River looks like and how it develops,carrying implications well beyond the 20 year horizon ' of this document. ��' The Elk River Comprehensive Plan acts as a guiding policy docu- ment for the next two decades.It establishes a long-term vision for the community and provides City staff,appointed officials, and elected leaders with the recommendations and strategies necessary to make that vision a reality.The Plans vision builds from fieldwork,data collection,housing and economic analysis, public outreach,and consensus building efforts conducted over a 12 month period that started in June of 2020. Elk River Comprehensive Plan•Introduction 1 DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY vr� r 5� q P• d Purpose of the Planning Process The Elk River Comprehensive Plan was developed in a five- Comprehensive step planning process which is outlined below. Plan Step 1: Project Initiation The Elk River Comprehensive Plan is a guiding policy This step kicked off the planning process with meet- document that promotes the community's vision for ings and workshops with key City staff,officials,and the the next 20 years.This vision is derived from commu- Comprehensive Plan Advisory Committee(CPAC)prior to nity outreach,stakeholder engagement,City staff,and undertaking other community outreach activities. elected and appointed officials.The Comprehensive Plan includes goals,objectives,and specific projects,policies, Step 2: Public Participation Program and programs based on the vision to address the needs This step involved gathering input and feedback directly and desires of the community.The document serves as from the community via interactive online mapping, an important tool for elected and appointed officials, surveys,interviews,and workshops.This included a flexible providing recommendations and strategies to make that approach to engagement that was sensitive to COVID-19 vision a reality.The City of Elk River derives its authority restrictions. to develop and implement the Comprehensive Plan from Minnesota State Statute 462.356. Step 3: Community Vision, Goals, and Policies This step established the overall vision for the future of Elk River and provided the foundation for preliminary goals and policies to be later flushed out in step 4. Step 4: City-wide Framework Plans and Web Meetings Step 4 included the creation of a series of framework plans that informed each chapter of the final Plan and were reviewed with the CPAC and City staff prior to more detailed plan development. Step 5: Comprehensive Plan Document and Adoption Based on steps 1-5,a draft comprehensive plan was prepared for review and consideration. 2 Introduction•Elk River Comprehensive Plan DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY _ Orono Park Playground Dedicated June 2013 Mayor John Dietz Council Members:Barbara Burandt,Paul Mofin, to Matt Westgaard,Stewart Wilson Parks and Recreation Commission Members: MarkgMel Mzlolekh JamesVNysiroem,Guenther Saganayn, City Administrator: Cal Partner Parks and Recreation Director: Michael Hecker O 40 Organization of the Plan The Comprehensive Plan is organized into the following nine chapters: Chapter I:Introduction Chapter 6:Transportation Introduces the Comprehensive Plaris purpose, & Mobility Plan process,and organization. Provides recommendations for the City's roads,sidewalks,trails,and more,with a focus on expanding access and improving systems Chapter 2:Community Context throughout. Provides an overview of important background information including demographic makeup, Chapter 7:Infrastructure & Urban housing and economic analysis,existing land Service Area Management Plan use,current zoning,and summary of commu- Outlines future expansion to the City's Urban nity outreach conducted. Service Area and provides recommendations for the continued delivery of utilities and Chapter 3:Land Use Plan services to the community to match growth. Is intended to ensure future development is compatible with the community's vision.The Chapter 8:Parks, Open Space Land Use Plan provides the foundation for & Natural Resources Plan recommendations made in the subsequent Builds from the adopted Elk River Parks and chapters. Recreation MasterPlan to promote access and support the City's natural assets.This chapter Chapter 4:Housing Plan provides recommendations for creating addi- Provides detailed policies and recommendation tional park space,expanding the trail network, for residential neighborhoods in the City with a and more. focus on housing options,access,and preserva- tion. Chapter 9:Implementation Plan • Presents specific actions,funding sources,and Chapter 5:Economic partners to support the City in implementing Development Plan the recommendations of the Comprehensive Presents specific actions and recommendations Plan. to leverage opportunities for economic devel- opment in the City's commercial corridors and neighborhoods.Key areas of focus include the Downtown,Highway 169,and east Highway 10. Elk River Comprehensive Plan•Introduction 3 DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY �f 'n7R' i .r � l CROhIS �r The City of Elk River was first established as a trading post at the confluence of the Mississippi River and Elk River.In 1864,the first railroad lines reached Elk River spurring further growth. Evidence of this early development is still visible in the Down- J } town where a number of buildings dating back over 100 years are still in use today.In 1977 the City was incorporated,taking `: pp— its namesake from the river that sparked its early development. While some buildings in the Downtown have not seen much change,the wider community has developed out from this core. Today,the City offers a full spectrum of land uses ranging from dense residential to rural estates to industrial including gravel mining areas unique to this region. The following chapter is a snapshot of existing conditions in Elk River intended to illustrate what the community looked like at the time of plan development.This context provides the foun- dation for recommendations in the later plan chapters of this document.A more comprehensive existing conditions analysis was developed and included in an Existing Conditions Memo- randum,which is on file with City staff and available for review upon request. Elk River Comprehensive Plan Community Context 5 DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY s Ph ceton Cambridge. I' North Branch Isanti 40 1 Zimmerman \; 65 Py, 169 St.Francis Bethel ' Becker e I x gt • East Bethel Big Nowthen Oak Grove /r min Lake 10 (vlan r, Columbus 52 Otsego Ramsey Andover Ham Lake Albertvi le, IPPI'�._ IL Anoka 1 St.Michael �070 1 �' Rogers Dayton Coon Rapids �. Buffalo �,, { Champlin Blaine ' Hanover Lino Lak 16 Osseo Shoreview Corcoran Brooklyn Park Mounds Arden Rockford Greenfield Maple Grov View Hills North Oaks Grant Vadnais 72 55 Heights C rysta I t �. New 1' Independence Medina Hope ea Plym th Roseville ada 7 Maplewo Golden Valley Lake Elm Regional Setting St.Louis Located 34 miles northwest of Minneapolis/St.Paul Park along the Mississippi River,the City of Elk River is home to approximately 24,000 residents.Elk River Mendota We Woodbury is uniquely positioned in the region with convenient St.Paul access to the greater metropolitan area via the North- Newport Star commuter rail and Highways 10,169,101 and nearby Interstate 94.often toted as the"gateway'to St.Paul Park cabin country in the north,Elk River frequently sees Blooming, Inver Grove heavyweekend travel along the Highway 169 corridor. Heights Cottage Grove Elk River is the seat of Sherburne County. 44 4-11 is Burnsville Savage Apple Valley Rosemount Hastings t 6 Prior Lake Community Context Elk River Comprehensive Plan Demographic & Market Overview An analysis of Elk River's demographic trends and market conditions was conducted as part of the Existing Conditions Memorandum to ensure that all policy recommendations made in the Plan are grounded in data.The following overview is a summary of the more detailed analysis included in that Memorandum. Population Age Elk River has grown steadily over the past two decades.The The median age in Elk River is 36 years old.Since 2000 Elk 2018 estimated population of Elk River is 24,211.Based on River's population aged 45 and older has grown by 45.4%. projections from the Minnesota State Demographic Center, In 2018,38.3%of the total population of the City was 45 or the City's population is expected to steadily increase to older. 28,659 by 2035,a 15.9%growth in total residents. 2018 Demographic Summary Elk River Population by Age Elk River Sherburne 100% 2018 County 2018 12% Population 24,211 93,231 90% 45+ Households 8,463 31,737 80% 45+ Median Age 36.0 35.8 45+ Average Household Size 2.8 2.9 70% Median Household Income $86,584 $85,818 0 60% Source:2018 American Community Survey Census Data U.S.Census o Bureau;Houseal Lavigne LLC L 50% � 0 F o 40% Elk River Total Population a 30% 30,000 (1990-2035) 28,659 20% . 27,469 26,258 •� ..Y 10% 24,211 25,025 •�•.•• 2 25,000 22,974 •••0•••• 0% a 20,000 2000 2010 2018 16,447 Year F 15,000 ■0-4 ■5- 17* ■ 18-24* ■25-44 ■45-64 ■65+ 101000 11,143 1990 2000 2010 2018 2020 2025 2030 2035 *For 2018 data age Cohort shown 5-17 represents 5-19 and age Year cohort shown 18-24 represents 20-24 due to changes in census age grouping. Source:Comprehensive Housing Market Needs Analysis for Sher- Source:1990 Minnesota Census Report 2000 Minnesota Census burne County,Minnesota;US Census Bureau;MN State Demo- Report;2010 Minnesota Census Report;2018 American Community graphic Center,SSRI;Maxfield Research S Consulting,LLC,Houseal Survey Census Data;Esri Business Analyst Lavigne LLC Elk River Comprehensive Plan•Community Context 7 DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY ;A i h.- R 9 Income Median Household Income The City of Elk River's 2018 median household income was$86,584.According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics $100,000 $86,584 $85,818 Consumer Price Index Inflation Calculator the median Elk $80,000 $72,944 $71,704 River household income in 2000 was equivalent to$85,334 in 2018 dollars.With the actual 2018 median income for Elk E $60,000 $58,114 $57,014 River$1,250 higher(1.5%)than the inflation adjusted 2000 estimate,Elk River household incomes have kept pace with $40,000 inflation and grown modestly.Elk River and Sherburne $20,000 County have seen the largest growth among households within the$50,000 to$149,999 income range.Meanwhile $ 2000 2010 2018 the number of households earning over$150,000 in both Year the City and County has declined since 2010. ■Elk River ■Sherburne County Source:2000 Minnesota Census Report 2010 Minnesota Census Change in Income Report;2018 American Community Survey Census Data (Elk River & Sherburne County, 2010-2018) $150,000+ (16,733) (4,558) $100,000-$149,999 5,825 "1,703 a $75,000-$99,999 4,760 0 1,120 L E $50,000-$74,999 1,336 5,221 0 V $35,000-$49,999 44 3,080 $25,000-$34,999 1,991 515 <$24,999 2,664 750 -20,000-15,000-10,000 -5,000 0 5,000 10,000 Change ■Sherburne County ■Elk River Source:2000 Minnesota Census Report 2010 Minnesota Census Report;2018 American Community Survey Census Data 8 Community Context Elk River Comprehensive Plan DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY J r T Employment Elk River Total Primary jobs Job growth has accompanied the community's population 11,500 10,928 growth with the number of jobs growing by nearly 30%or 11,000 10,816 10,750 1,900 jobs in the last 10 years.Manufacturing makes up N 10,414 17%of Elk River's employment base with 1,858 jobs.The o 10,500 10,707 Manufacturing sector also grew by 592 jobs between 2008 0 10,000 9 585 and 2017.Other industries that have experienced growth �, 9,796 9,500 9,208 since 2008 include Retail Trade(+476 jobs),Construction E (+395 jobs),and Educational Services(+360 jobs).The z 9,000 Z8,803 Educational Services and Retail Trade sectors are the 8,500 City's second largest industry sectors by employment both 8,434 representing 14%of the employment base and roughly 8,000 1,550 employees each. 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 Year Source:U.S.Census Bureau;OnTheMap2008-2017 Elk River job Growth (2008-2017) -46 Health Care and Social Assistance Educational Services 360 Administration&Support,WM and ' 18 Remediation Management of Companies and 193 Enterprises T Retail Trade 476 Y N � Wholesale Trade 38, C 592 Manufacturing Construction 395 -100 0 100 200 300 400 500 600 Number of Jobs Source:U.S.Census Bureau;OnTheMap2008-2017 Elk River Comprehensive Plan•Community Context 9 DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY �cz e � - •t l LJ-1 L Labor Inflow/Outflow Total Housing Units, Elk River is located within a relatively fluid employment Type &Tenure region with many residents commuting to areas along Elk River's total housing stock includes 8,780 housing the I-94 and US 10 corridors,and workers traveling to Elk units and is predominantly composed of owner-occupied River along the same route.The majority(83%)of Elk River single-family detached homes,accounting for 72%of all residents are employed outside the community.Just 17%of housing units.Multifamily units comprise nearly 15%and Elk River's workforce,roughly 2,098 residents,both live and single-family attached homes make up about 12%of the work in the City while the majority of jobs located in Elk total stock.The vacancy rate of just under 4%in Elk River is River are held by people who live outside of the commu- lower than that of Sherburne County(approximately 5%). pity. Vacancy rates below the market recommended standard of 5%indicate pent up demand for housing. Elk River Inflow/Outflow job Counts in 2017 Elk River Housing Type (2018) 3. ■Single-Family Detached ■Single-Family Attached ■Multifamily ■Mobile Home 8,830 Employed in Elk River,Live Outside 2,098 Employed and Live in Elk River 10,274 Live in Elk River,Employed Outside Source:U.S.Census Bureau;OnTheMap2017 Source:U.S.Census Bureau 2018 10 Community Context Elk River Comprehensive Plan DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY y J Housing Vacancy Housing Age Elk River has seen fairly consistent growth in its housing 100.0% stock from 1960 to 2010.The largest amount of housing S00% was built relatively recently,between 2000 to 2009,and F accounts for 27%of the total stock.Breaking the trend of E 60.0% growing construction by decade,housing built in 2010 U94.6% and later makes up only slightly more than 6%of the 40.0% total.However,in 2017 the City of Elk River permitted 113 LU 20.0% residential units,the most residential permits issued in a CL 0.0% single year since before the 2008 Great Recession. Elk River Sherburne County 2018 ■Occupied Units ■Vacant Units Source:U.S.Census Bureau 2018 Elk River Housing Type by Tenure EII< River Age of Housing Stock 100% 1.3% (20 18) •% 1.5% a 80% ■Built 2010 or later E 2.85,J 60% ■Built 2000 to 2009 0 U 40% 86.7% 4.2% 5.3% 0 , ■Built 1990 to 1999 C 0 U 17.1% t,Built 1980 to 1989 a 20% ■Built 1970 to 1979 0% ■Built 1960 or earlier Owner-occupied housing Renter-occupied housing units 2018 units ■1-Unit Detached ■1-Unit Attached ■2 units ■3 or 4 units ■5 to 9 units ■10 or more units ■Mobile home or other type Source:U.S.Census Bureau 2018 Source:U.S.Census Bureau 2018 Elk River Comprehensive Plan•Community Context 11 DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY rs f w -X3 yY� mBig HousingValue Home Value (2018) The median home value in Elk River is$233,000 which is 5.5% slightly higher than that of the County at$217,200.Of the $450,000 or more ! 5.0% City's owner-occupied homes,roughly 60%are valued $300,000 to$449,999 i 19.6% at$150,000 to$299,999 representing the majority of the $225,000 to$299,999 24.7% 28.7% housing stock.Only 5%of owner-occupied homes are $1so,000 to$zz4,999 35.8% valued under$104,999.The County follows similar rates in j 3o.a% $105,000 to$149,999 � 10.5% housing value as Elk River with a majority of its units in the 11.0% $150,000 to$299,999 range. $75,000 to$104,999 I.,% Less than$75K M 4.1% 3.8% Housing Cost Burden 0.0% 10.0% 20.0% 30.0% 40.0% Cost burdened households are defined by the US Depart- percent of Total Owner-Occupied units ment of Housing and Urban Development as those house- ■Sherburne County ■Elk River holds spending 30%or more of annual income on housing Source:U.S.Census Bureau 2018 and who may have difficulty affording necessities such as food,clothing,transportation,and medical care. Cost Burden Households Overall,the proportion of households experiencing a (2010 - 2018) housing cost burden in Elk River has declined from 2010 40% to 2018.In 2010,it is estimated that 37%of households were cost burdened in the City.In 2018,the percent of cost 2 30% burdened households decreased to approximately 23%, more in line with Sherburne County(22%).This means u 20% that in 2018 approximately one in every five households in v Elk River is spending more on housing than other essen- (U 10% tial needs.While the share of cost burdened homes has a decreased,this highlights a need for the provision of a o% variety of housing types to provide options at various price 2010 2018 Elk River points. ■Owners ■Renters Source:U.S.Census Bureau 2018 12 Community Context•Elk River Comprehensive Plan DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY k 1 1� Housing Demand General Occupancy Housing Demand The City's Comprehensive Housing Study conducted in 2018 Type of Use 1 1 looked at housing characteristic and construction trends in Elk River from 2000 to 2017 and projected demand Rental Units-Market Rate 172 for multifamily,single-family,and senior housing units Rental Units-Affordable 93 through the year 2025. Rental Units-Subsidized 34 For-Sale Units-Single-Family 315 This report estimates a need for an additional 172 market For-sale units-Multifamily 80 rate rental units,93 affordable rental units,and 34 subsi- Total General Occupancy Demand 694 dized rental units in Elk River to meet demand.Estimates also found that an additional 315 single-family units and Source:Maxfield Research s Consulting,LLC 80 multifamily units are needed to meet for-sale unit demand in Elk River.In addition,the report identified a demand for 97 additional market rate senior units and 73 Age Restricted Housing Demand affordable senior units by 2022. Market Rate(Senior HousingType) 12022 Active Adult-Rental 14 22 Active Adult-Ownership 0 0 Congregate 93 67 Assisted Living 15 0 Memory Care 23 8 Total Market Rate Senior Housing Demand 145 97 Affordable(Senior HousingType) 2017 2022 ActiveAdult-Subsidized 32 32 Active Adult-Affordable 37 41 Total Affordable Senior Housing Demand 69 73 Source:Maxfield Research S Consulting,LLC Elk River Comprehensive Plan Community Context �3 DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY Retail Trends Retail Submarket Overview The City of Elk River is part of the Sherburne County submarket.Since Elk River has the highest concentration se of population and jobs in the County,trends found in the Sherburne County submarket can be applied to the City of Elk River.Market rent per square foot in Sherburne County ($13.00 per square foot)is considerably less expensive than the neighboring Twin Cities Regional Market($17.20 I.AppleMy/Lakeville per square foot).Further,retail vacancy rates in Sherburne 2.Benton County 3.Brookdale 14.North—n County are at 3%and are below the regions average of 4.Burnsville 15.Pierce County 5.Calhoun 16.Ridgedale nearly 4%, indicating a healthy market with demand for 6.Chisago County 17.Sherburne County 7.Coon Rapids I8.Southdale retail space. 8.Eagan 19.5'Croix County 9.Eden Prarie 20.St Paul 10.Isanti County 21.S'earns County A retail gap analysis compares availability of goods and II.Maple Grove 22.Wes'S'Paul 12.Maplevrood 23.Woodbury services(supply)with consumer expenditures(demand) 13.11inneap°lis 24.Wright County within the drive time market areas.When consumers ■ Twin Cities Regional Market El Sherburne County spend more than existing businesses can accommodate, Source:CoStar;Houseal Lavigne Associates demand is greater than supply.This means residents are spending money outside of the drive time market area. This is referred to as leakage and is shown in the retail gap summary table in green.Conversely,market saturation or Retail Vacancy Rate surplus occurs when the supply of retail space is greater 6% than demand.Surplus is indicated in red in the summary 5% table. National Average-(4.5%-------- - 4% verage(4.5%- 4% Within a five-minute drive of 5th Street and Highway 169 (the generalized center point of the major commercial 3% areas in the City),Elk River's households are largely well- served by existing retailers.Within Elk River's 10-minute 2% drivetime market area there is an annual leakage of over I $2 million for retail trade and food 6 drink,meaning current demand for retail trade and food S drink exceeds 0% supply.Elk River's 20-minute drive time market area 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 (which includes the downtowns for Ramsey,Zimmerman, ■ Twin Cities Regional Market ■ Sherburne County Saint Michael,and Rogers)is well served by retail with a Source:CoStar;Houseal Lavigne Associates surplus of$28.7 million for retail trade and food 8 drink. Food 6 drink leakage occurring within the 10-minute and 20-minute drive times highlight opportunity for additional Retail Gap Summary dining options in Elk River. 2017 Gap by 5-Min I 0-Min 20-Min It is important to note that leakage and surplus are an indi- CategoryTbital cation of consumer habits and market potential.However, Retail Trade and -$147,262,014 $2,306,074 -$28,725,192 just because a community may experience leakage or Food 6 Drink surplus in a specific retail category does not necessarily Retail Trade -$130,827,672 -$4,248,568 -$58,949,331 indicate the local market can or cannot support those types Food 6 Drink -$16,434,342 $6,554,642 $30,244,140 of businesses.Factors such as site availability,anticipated growth,and changing shopper preferences determine if Source:Esri Business Analyst,Houseal Lavigne Associates opportunities exist to expand existing businesses or attract new retailers. 14 Community Context•Elk River Comprehensive Plan DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY Industrial Trends Industrial Submarket Overview Over the past five years,Sherburne County,and subse- quently Elk River,has seen consistently more affordable rental rates for industrial property than the Twin Cities o Region.Lower rental rates make Sherburne County more attractive for businesses looking for space in the Minne- apolis/St.Paul Region.Sherburne County has also seen a trend in increasing vacancy rates over the past five years. Despite this,vacancy has continued to consistently remain 1.Benton County below 4%.The County also sees a lower vacancy rate on 2.Chisago county 3.East average than the neighboring Twin Cities Regional Market. 4.lsanti county 5.Midway Trends in the industrial market indicate a demand for 6.Minneapolis 7.North Central 12.Southwest additional space be set aside for continued growth in this 8 Nor a C, 13.5`Croix`°°n y 1� g 9.Piereecounty 14.StPad sector. 1O.Sherburne County IS.Stearns County I.South Central 16.Wright County ■ Twin Cities Regional Market ® Sherburne County Source:CoStar;Houseal Lavigne Associates Industrial Vacancy Rate Industrial Market Rent Per Square Feet 6% $7.4 $7.2 5% $7.0 4% $6.8 $6.6 (u 3% 2 $6.4 $6.2 2% $6.0 $5.8 I% $5.6 0% $5.4 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 ■ Twin Cities Regional Market ■ Sherburne County ■ Twin Cities Regional Market ■ Sherburne County Source:CoStar;Houseal Lavigne Associates Source:CoStar;Houseal Lavigne Associates Elk River Comprehensive Plan•Community Context 15 DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY r I F32] Y zz 7,4 . 169 AVE NJ�\�� 2' z _=209TH=AVENW 7 33 1 32 1 3 C 2 v, b Y w S N. w $ � I 44 35 � 1'92ND"A'VE7VUV • � _ �1 JJ C S \ /� TJ j IGHWAY-tQNW 16913 � Z 10 Mq,N f 4 � 12 ��SISSIPPI�RDNW__;� \� I Y I5T-AVEN 2 F EXISTING LAND USE 101 xzSE V Agriculture Industrial Rural Residential Public/Semi-Public Single-Family Detached Parks and Open Space I Single-Family Attached Utility and Railroads j Multifamily Undeveloped \ 765'7"<,"E"w, 10 Mixed Use Vacant ` Commercial ❑ Urban Service Area ,o�* y�c m 16 Community Context Elk River Comprehensive Plan DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY Existing Land Use Existing land use has been inventoried based on field reconnaissance and research conducted in August 2020.All parcels within the City Limits have been categorized into one of the following land use classifications. Rural Residential Commercial Utilities & Railroads Rural residential consists of large lot Commercial uses include retail and Utility and railroads support local infra- single-family homes.This is the predom- service businesses,such as shops,restau- structure and provide rights-of-way or inant residential type in the north of the rants,banks,gas stations,and auto service easements for the transmission of gas, City beyond the Urban Service Area.This stations.Office uses are also included electric,water,and sewer.This includes land use consists of planned subdivi- within this land use designation.Elk both facilities and infrastructure as well as sions and lots located directly on arterial River has a number of commercial strip related rights-of-way. roadways.Rural residential lands are not mall and big box retail destinations along utilized for any agricultural production the Highway 169 corridor in the south of as they serve residential and residential the City.The historic Downtown is also a Industrial accessory uses only. predominant commercial district for the Industrial uses include both heavy and City. light industrial businesses such as manu- Sin le-Famil Detached facturing,warehousing and the distri- g y Mixed Use bution of goods and materials,as well as Single-family detached consists of industrial machinery or refineries.Most single-family homes occupying modest This land use includes structures with first industrial uses are located along Highway to moderate individual lots.This is the floor/ground level commercial uses and 169 and Highway 10 with access to the predominant residential type within residential or office uses above.Mixed Use major transportation corridors.Gravel the Urban Service Area of the City.The is exclusively found in the Downtown. mining activities in the north of the City single-family detached land use consists are a primary example of heavy industrial of newer planned subdivisions as well use.The operation of the gravel mines as older established neighborhoods Parks & Open Space and other legacy industrial uses such as surrounding the historic downtown. This land use includes parks that provide Frontera concrete casting have occurred both active and passive recreation options in the City for decades and are expected to Single-Family Attached as well as open space areas.Parks consist continue operations into the future. g y of public parks owned and maintained by Single-family attached includes structures the City as well as private parks in planned Undeveloped where dwelling units share an exterior subdivisions.Open space areas include wallwith at least one adjacent unitwhile preserves or maintained natural areas Undeveloped includes natural areas such still maintaining a separate dedicated within the City in addition to detention as fields or wooded areas that have not entrance for each unit.This land use ponds and creeks within planned subdivi- been prepared for development but have includes townhomes and duplexes.There sions and commercial or industrial areas. not been set aside for conservation.In are a number of single-family attached their current state,development could not homes in newer planned subdivisions occur without first improving the site. in the City primarily providing senior Public & Semi-Public housing. Public and semi-public includes local government uses,municipal facilities, Vacant Multifamily community service providers,schools,and Vacant includes properties and parcels places of worship and assembly such as that can reasonably be considered avail- Multifamily includes structures that City Hall,fire stations,churches,and Elk able for development/redevelopment. contain multiple dwelling units stacked River's public schools. This includes properties that have been vertically with shared entrances and corri- prepared for development,those that dors,such as apartment buildings and once held a structure that has since been condominiums.Multifamily units make up Agriculture demolished,and those where the struc- the smallest portion of the City's housing Agriculture includes land that is actively ture is in very poor condition and does not stock.There is a range of multifamily being used for the production of crops, have a current occupant.This category options in the community from luxury livestock,and farming-related activities. does not include vacant areas that are part condominiums to 65+and assisted living Farmhouses and very low-density single of a larger parcel. housing such as Pullman Place Coopera- family detached homes within the same tive and the Guardian Angels Care Center. parcel utilized for agricultural production are also included in this land use category. Agriculture is located primarily in the northern most portion of the City beyond the Urban Service Area. Elk River Comprehensive Plan•Community Context 17 DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY o e 32 Q Y W 221STAVENW 221ST AVE NW � 169 121 3 2 ,I 2 209TH=AVENNL 1 33 33 /i 32 i Irim Z Z -'y RDgV5,p - - 40 0 GHN1!K WAY-10 � ^Sly G os p giA-S" y �-� z ISSISSIFP-1=RD=Nw �/ _ `18'K, EN -- N N P F 'O tt �P � CURRENT ZONING 101 T nvENwJ' Al -Agricultural Conservation RIA-Residential /f11a11� AR-Agricultural Research RIB- Residential BP-Business Park RIC-Residential DD-Downtown District RID- Residential C1 -Central Business R2A-Residential r A r w C2-Office R213- Residential 10 C3-Highway Commercial R3- Residential G CRT-Commercial Reserve Transitional R4- Residential XCR-Extreme Commercial Recreation FAST- Focus Area Study 11 -Light Industrial PUD- Planned Unit Development 12-Medium Industrial MU-ERP-Mixed Use Elk River Plaza 13-General Industrial SWF-Solid Waste Facility Overlay ME-Mineral Excavation Overlay AT-Antenna Town Overlay OSP-Open Space ❑ Urban Service Area 18 Community Context Elk River Comprehensive Plan DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY Land Development Regulations Development controls provide the legal framework to regulate the built environment.The City of Elk River's Land Develop- ment Regulations are outlined in Chapter 30 of the City's Code of Ordinances.Article VI of the Chapter establishes the City's zoning regulations.Each property within the community is designated as one of the following base zoning districts.The City has also established several overlay districts to further regulate areas of special interest. Current Zoning R-Id District C-I — Central Business District The following section summarizes the This district is intended to accommodate This district is intended for retail,service, various zoning districts and overlay single-family residential dwellings with and commercial uses that serve residents districts in Elk River's Code of Ordinances. large lots and higher quality housing and the surrounding community that within the municipal sewer and water are different from highway commercial access area.This district is explicitly for uses.These are typically smaller scale A-I —Agricultural Conservation areas that possess significant natural commercial uses just outside the Historic District features and is intended to encourage the Downtown. design of subdivisions that protect these This district is intended for growing natural features. or producing field crops,keeping or C=2 — Office District producing of livestock,and livestock This district is intended to buffer resi- products and poultry.Incidental retail R-2 a District dential districts from arterial streets or selling by the producer of products raised This district is intended to create low commercial districts.This district provides on the premises,provided that customer density housing areas that transition for the location of offices and other service parking space is furnished off the public between single-family housing and higher and light commercial uses that are subject right-of-way is allowed.This district does density residential housing. to more restrictive controls. not allow feedlots. R-I a District R-2b District C-3 — Highway Commercial This district is intended to create low District This district is intended for primarily rural density multiple dwelling areas to tran- residential with accessoryagricultural This district is intended for commercial g sition between lower and higher density establishments with need for immediate uses where conditions are suitable. land uses within the municipal sewer and access to major highways. water service area. R-I b District This district is intended for low density R-3 — Townhome District DD — Downtown District single-family residential development. This district is intended to reinforce g Y P This district is intended to accommodate the general character and quality of the Subdivisions utilize on-site sewage single-family detached and attached disposal systems and private water wells. dwellings at moderate residential densi- existing Downtown.New construction in Densi in this district is limited to one this district should take into consideration tY ties of 11 units per acre or less.This district the building location and purpose and single-family residence per gross acre. serves as a transition between single- incorporatetraditional design elements family areas and more dense multifamily and techniques that are represented R-I c District districts. in existing structures.This district is This district is intended for single-family intended to encourage uses and designs residential in areas with full municipal R-4 — Multiple-Family Residential that are consistent with the historic char- acter of the Downtown with an emphasis public sewer and water access that are District on pedestrian access and design stan- a continuation of existing residential dards. development patterns and the infilling of This district is intended to create, existing lots in established neighborhoods. preserve,and enhance dense multifamily use in areas served by municipal sewer XCR — Extreme Commercial and water and with good access to public amenities,shopping centers,and employ- Recreation ment centers. This district is intended to provide lodging, retail,and commercial recreation uses that are more intense in nature and include but are not limited to off road racing,training facilities,and hotels. Elk River Comprehensive Plan•Community Context 19 DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY R t 1-1 — Light Industrial District AR —Agricultural Research Overlay Zoning Districts This district is intended to serve as a District transition between more industrial uses SWF— Solid Waste Facility and other business uses.These areas are This district is intended to preserve and maintain the use of land for agricultural Overlay District intended for industrial uses that are clean, research. The purpose of this overlay district is quiet,and free of hazardous elements and nuisances. to protect the public health,safety,and CRT— Commercial Reserve general welfare by providing specific land area for the establishment and operation 1-2 — Medium Industrial District Transitional District of solid waste facilities. This district is intended to accommodate This district is intended to allow existing more intense manufacturing uses that uses to remain conforming until redevel- ME—Mineral Excavation Overlay may generate nominal off-site impacts. opment aligns with the Comprehensive Plan,at which time the City will consider District changing the zoning designation. The purpose of this district is to protect 1-3 — General Industrial District the public health,safety,and general This district is intended for industrialwelfare by establishing specific land for development not requiring municipal M U-ERP— Mixed Use Elk River mineral excavation operations and related sewer and water.These industries are Plaza District facilities. meant to be compatible with surrounding The purpose of this district is to codify the landuses. planned unit development into a single AT—Antenna Town Overlay zoning district with three subsections: commercial,single-family,and multi- District BP— Business Park District family. This overlay district is intended to accom- This district is intended to encourage modate the telecommunication needs of a planned,integrated environment for residents and businesses by providing a certain industrial,office,and commercial Focus Area Study (FAST) specific district for the establishment and uses,which are compatible and comple- This district is intended to establish the operation of wireless telecommunication mentary to each other and surrounding land use,architectural,and bulk regula- towers. uses. tions of the 900 acre area included in the district from the 171st Focused Area Study. PUD — Planned Unit Development District The purpose of this district is to provide opportunities for design flexibility and creative development.PUDs are developed in accordance with a concept plan and development plan and must be consistent with the City Comprehensive Plan. 20 Community Context Elk River Comprehensive Plan DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY ECOMPREHENSIVE PLAN �®® ICE River Elk River is updating its Comprehensive Plan,and—needy.-help! At �© !® ►�� A 6 a z .mm.......' Community ' =Community Outreach & Engagement The Elk River Comprehensive Plan utilized a multi-pronged approach to outreach that was flexible to work within COVID-19 related restrictions.Coordination with City staff identified the most appropriate outreach for the community and ensured an extensive,accessible,and safe engagement process for the Plan.Outreach and engagement provides the Plan with critical input and feedback from residents,businesses,and stakeholders in Elk River.The following events and tools were utilized to support this process: Project Website Online Questionnaires A project website,active through the adoption of the Plan, Two online questionnaires were developed,one for Elk provided information and updates regarding the project, River residents and one for those who own or operate a including meeting notices,Plan documents,and partic- business in the City.A total of 200 residential surveys and ipation opportunities.Additionally,the website hosted 14 business community surveys were completed,supple- outreach tools,including online questionnaires and map. menting in-person events by offering an opportunity for social. individuals to get involved at their own pace.The user- friendly questionnaires were accessible 24 hours a day map.social in order to capture input from those unable or unlikely map.social is an outreach tool that allows individuals to to attend a workshop or focus group.The questionnaires provide feedback and comments tied spatially to a point remained available throughout the planning process. or area on a map.It provides a way for anyone to create a map of the Elk River community,identifying their own issues,opportunities,weaknesses,and community assets. Each point on the map can be described in further detail with pop-out notes and attached photos.Twelve partici- pants used map.social to create maps including a total of 41 comments and features throughout the City. Elk River Comprehensive Plan•Community Context 21 DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY r L -.�„I Roundtables, Key Stakeholder Interviews Virtual Community Kick-off Event & Small Focus group Discussions On October 28,2020,a virtual Community Kick-off Roundtables,focus groups,and key stakeholder interviews event was hosted.The event introduced attendees to the provided an opportunity for smaller groups or key indi- Comprehensive Plan,providing a brief overview of the viduals to engage with the planning process in a conver- planning process and initial existing conditions research. sational setting.The main goal of the focus group and The Event also included a facilitated panel discussion interview formats was to bring out nuanced information between three members of the CPAC.The discussion on a topic in finer detail from specific perspectives.The revolved around key issues and opportunities identified to discussion structure of the focus groups allowed for insight be addressed in the Comprehensive Plan. to be gleaned that may not be in a larger workshop setting. A total of 10 key stakeholder interviews were conducted as part of the outreach process.Additionally,31 individuals participated in focus group meetings,including: • Elected/Appointed Officials Roundtable • Department Heads Workshop • Comprehensive Plan Advisory Committee(CPAC) Workshops Business Workshop On September 9,2020,a virtual Business Workshop was hosted.Six participants composed of Elk River business owners and managers attended this virtual meeting to share their input on important topics related to the busi- ness community in Elk River.Discussion during the event focused on the current business climate in Elk River in addition to conducting,attracting,and supporting busi- nesses in the City. 22 Community Context Elk River Comprehensive Plan DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY MAT OEIRL ,... ..�� ~~~ ~, �~ Lev°a ` 9 m0~�—~~—^~ '— IF nn�� =~�� t n�n� n � � u��x��w� Many parri�pamzidenri�cdaneed for add�iona\dining ThrooQbconnnood�ootn�acharo�n��erofissnexood opportunities were identified byparticipants.The following options and access tomore shopping closer t000iQhbor' hoods toreduce the need todrb�across tomo�for basic ixasononor�of��tberoesaodtopic�tb�t�eretabeo QrocedesaodsendcesRoo8hh'O096ofreoDoodeotstotbe inroconciderarioninthe�re�ararionofrhePlan� Community Questionnaire said more retail stores would have aDooit�eimpact oothe corurnooit�\�hi|e8396of Housingrespoodeot said new en1ertoionzeotoptions would also Participants identified housing acamajor strength ofthe have apositive impact oothe community.Outreach also community citing the high-quality and range ofoptions highlighted aconcern for the future ofaging shopping already available inElk River.However,housing afford- centers iothe City. ability was identified acatop concern.1naddition,main- taining existing housing iothe City especially inthe older Active Transportation neighborhoods was highUQht ddruoghooteoQoQerneot ^ Active rranc�orrariono�rioncrneanin8pedestrian and well. ' bicycle routes,are seen tobelacking inthe community. Expanding trail connections was seen asaoimportant Tra ««^c improvement needed,especially toprovide safe routes to Transportation connectivity was identified acatop school for students.ioaddition,better pedestrian and bike concern across all forms ofoutreach.Participants raised access across Highway 16gwas identified. specific concerns related roeast-west travel across the City,the potential impacts ofthe Redefine 16gproject,and the future ofHighway 10.ioaddition,the railroad,timing at lights,and lack ofbike lanes and other barriers toaccessing the Downtown and key destinations iothe City were also highlighted osissues. Downtown More than half ofrespondents tothe community goex d000airasaw the character ofthe Downtown axastrength. Many participants identified opportunities for improve- ment totbeDomontownsocbaxLaodscaDioQoodgeoeral beautification,more shops and dining options,and expanding access tothe waterfront.Many participants identified parking acamajor concern,especially for events held arRivers Edge Commons Park.1naddition,traffic ar Main and Jackson was also mentioned. Elk River Comprehensive Plan-Community Context 23 DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY l CHAPTER 3 !wMD S F= wU r f` vim i ,r` A. .q• _+•til The Land Use Plan is one of the most important elements of the Elk River Comprehensive Plan.It outlines how properties in tI i different parts of the planning area should be used and iden- tifies the type,character,and intensity of use for each region of the community.The intent of the Land Use Plan is to ensure that future development takes into account land use compat- ibility,access,market viability,environmental features,and community services.As such,the recommendations made in the subsequent chapters of the Comprehensive Plan relate back to the Land Use Plan. Elk River Comprehensive Plan•Land Use Plan 25 DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY Targeted Urban Future Land Use Service Area The Land Use Plan identifies desired future land uses for all areas of the City of Elk River both within the Urban Service Expansion Area and out to the City's boundary.The Plan provides a framework for future planning decisions that build upon There are several strategic areas of the City that can the desired characteristics of Elk River's established resi- accommodate future development in concert with the dential neighborhoods,commercial districts,and employ- sustainable expansion of the Urban Service Area.These ment areas. areas have existing transportation infrastructure to which new development can connect as well as minimal wetlands Assess Land Development Regulations for Alignment and conflicts with neighboring land uses that make them with the Comprehensive Plan well-suited for future residential,commercial,and indus- trial development. To ensure that all standards of review for development approval and zoning relief processes include alignment The Urban Service Area map highlights the existing Urban with the Comprehensive Plan the City should assess its Service Area in the City and overlays the proposed future land development regulations.This will ensure that elected Urban Service Area extensions.Expansion areas include and appointed officials have clear guidance when consid- portions of the Gravel Mining Area,land surrounding the ering requests for map and text amendments,planned Twin Lakes Road corridor,and the Elk Lake Road corridor. unit developments,and all other petition review processes. The Housing Plan and Economic Development Plan further It will also provide fair certainty to residents,businesses, elaborate on these expansion areas and provide key property owners,and developers. recommendations to ensure development is in line with the community's vision for the future. Land Use Category Rural Residential The rural residential category consists of large lot single- family homes.This is the predominant residential type in 32 the north of the City beyond the Urban Service Area.This 169. ,21 land use primarily consists of planned residential subdi- •----- visions and lots located directly on arterial roadways.This -I Z land use supports large lot residential development and allows agricultural operations as an accessory use where appropriate. Traditional Single-family Neighborhood The suburban residential category predominately consists 35 44 \, �I w of single-family detached homes occupying moderately LJ 169 40 sized lots.This land use is the most prevalent residential o AJ 169 type within the Urban Service Area and consists of a range of neighborhood typologies including the historic grid 12 block pattern neighborhoods surrounding the Downtown and newer curvilinear block pattern subdivision devel- opments in the north,east,and west.This land use,while Urban Service Area predominately single-family detached,should accommo- date single-family attached,townhomes,and duplexes at Existing urban service transitional areas on the edges of these neighborhoods, area 10 along primary transportation corridors,and adjacent Proposed urban se ee \ hi her intensi uses such as multifamil or commercial. (area Extensions \ g � y 26 Land Use Plan-Elk River Comprehensive Plan DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY f ` • /r \ C , _ Zj_� m - I -J �' zzlsraNw r _ 221STAVENW a • 1z1 � � . 2 i------- --- --------- i z i �4N 1 i C *DNiy all: 1 / 1 1 1 O 1 , 1 1 , ---------^ ----- 1 :....\ -—_209,THAV&NW - - 1 �' • 33 1 1 1 1----- 33 1� 1 1 / 1 / 1 / 3 i / \ 1 1 1. 1 . J 1 1 1 � � "� '93RDgVE� 1 35 792N0AVEYVW��-� 0� 1 1 'l 1 � SCH 1 ® � Wav-raNw� 169 % P ' 10 giys� i� { 1 \7r y MISSISSIPPI-RD-NW�- - -�� _187STWFNW -- ` d W 1 101 —175TH'VEN WI Land Use Plan C - LAND USE CATEGORY �� ---- Rural Residential ■ Business Park 1 / 1 Traditional Single-Family Residential ■ Industrial Mixed Residential ■ Parks&Open Space r 165THAVE NW ® Multifamily Public/Semi-Public 1 ■ Mixed Use Agriculture 10 1 � 1 Neighborhood Commercial Utilities&Railroads GJ ■ Highway Business i_� Future Urban Service Area icy p . Elk River Comprehensive Plan Land Use Plan �7 Mixed Residential Neighborhood Mixed Use The mixed residential category consists of neighborhoods The mixed use category contains all commercial and with multiple housing types,including single-family supporting uses located in the historic core of the Down- detached,townhomes,duplexes,and small scale multi- town as well as desired expansion areas to the west and family buildings.Mixed residential areas should include north.Standalone commercial,multifamily,and mixed use existing residential neighborhoods where a gentle increase with commercial use on the ground floor and residential in density is appropriate such as surrounding the Down- above are all included in the mixed use category. town as well as new neighborhood subdivisions. Downtown housing along Main Street should be in mixed Multi family use buildings with first floor/ground level commercial uses and residential above.On the periphery of the Downtown The multifamily category includes higher density apart- core multifamily and mixed use are appropriate.The ment and/or condominium complexes in a master planned Downtown mixed use area is oriented towards pedestrians setting with common open spaces and recreational and provides connections to the Mississippi River water- amenities.Multifamily areas make up the smallest portion front. of the City's housing stock and are primarily located off of major roadways with proximity to commercial areas. Neighborhood Commercial Highway Business The neighborhood commercial use category includes local-serving commercial that provides surrounding The highway business category primarily consists of a mix residents with daily goods and services like specialty food of auto-oriented retail and service businesses,restaurants, stores,daycares,or cafes.Neighborhood commercial uses and community-and regional-scale shopping centers. are found near residential neighborhoods and reduce Highway business uses are located along Highway 169 and the need to drive across the City for essential commercial Highway 10 and have high visibility from these corridors. goods and services.Neighborhood commercial knits into the fabric of both established and new neighborhoods and complements these areas with appropriately scaled devel- opment that emphasizes connections and 360-degree architectural design. Nowak" e 28 Land Use Plan Elk River Comprehensive Plan DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY Business Park Public/Semi-Public The business park category primarily consists of office The public and semi-public use category includes local and corporate campus development.This use is located government uses,municipal facilities,community service with access to major transportation corridors in the City providers,schools,and places of worship and assembly (Highway 169 and Highway 10)and utilizes the City's such as City Hall,fire stations,churches,and Elk River's natural amenities such as its mature tree canopy and public schools. riverfront views to create attractive campuses.In addition, business park uses provide a transitional or buffer use Agriculture between higher intensity industrial and lower intensity residential uses in the City. The agriculture use category includes land that is actively being used for the production of crops,livestock,and farm- ing-related activities.Farmhouses and very low-density Industrial single family detached homes on the same parcel utilized The industrial use category includes both heavy and light for agricultural production are also included in this cate- industrial businesses such as manufacturing,ware- gory.Agriculture is located primarily in the northern most housing,and excavation.These uses are primarily located portion of the City beyond the Urban Service Area. off of Highway 169,Highway 10,and the BNSF Railroad which provide easy access for the transferring of goods Utilities & Railroads throughout the region. The utility and railroad use category supports local infra- structure and provide rights-of-way or easements for Parks & Open Space the transmission of gas,electric,water,and sewer.This The parks 6 open space land use category includes parks includes both facilities and infrastructure as well as related that provide both active and passive recreation options rights-of-way. as well as open space areas.Parks consist of public parks owned and maintained by the City as well as private parks in planned subdivisions.Open space areas include preserves or maintained natural areas within the City in addition to detention ponds and creeks within planned subdivisions and commercial or industrial areas. Elk River Comprehensive Plan Land Use Plan �9 DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY 7 r t 1 ilk AV CHAPTER,*'4' ` '-- "- NG Z. s — The City of Elk River is comprised of historic residential neigh- borhoods at its core,complemented by single-family subdi- visions in the surrounding areas,and large lot rural housing along the City's northern fringe.Downtown Elk River features L mixed use development,while multifamily development occurs primarily adjacent commercial developments along the Highway 169 corridor and near the Northstar Line rail station. Although the City has a mix of housing types,recent housing `'-- • trends,including low vacancy rates,indicate Elk River has pent up demand for additional housing.The Housing Plan provides policies and recommendations that will enable the City to meet this demand and foster greater housing choice. The Plan provides guidance on housing reinvestment that enhances existing residential areas,emphasizes infill housing opportunities within the current Urban Service Area,and informs strategic conservation driven development of new residential neighborhoods.Further,the Housing Plan builds off of the Land Use Plan to ensure that growth and develop- ment reflects the desired vision of the Elk River community. The Housing Character Areas map identifies key areas in the community where the City should prioritize investment,resi- dential infill,and expand opportunities for new residential development that provide a greater diversity of housing options in the community. Elk River Comprehensive Plan•Housing Plan 31 DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY Housing Vision Statement In 2035,the City of Elk River will provide a range of housing options from senior housing to entry level homes for new families,and apartments and condos for recent college grads and young professionals.Infill housing devel- opment in the Downtown and adjacent neighborhoods will reinforce the historic charm of the City and support the established neighborhood character of the area.This will be complemented by the development of new neigh- borhoods that include increased housing variety and provide more affordable options for both homeowners and renters as the community grows. Goal: Policies:Encourage residential deve opment with a variety of housing types that fosters high-quality,livable neighborhoods to address the needs of existing and future residents. development.• Target residential • Support . development.• Encourage conservation design • Foster greater housing choice. 32 Housing Plan Elk River Comprehensive Plan DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY City-wide Housing Policies The following section includes policies or strategies that can be applied to all housing in Elk River regardless of loca- tion.More neighborhood-specific policies that support the character unique to each area of the City are included in the following section. Promote Context Sensitive Infill To increase missing middle housing stock and provide a greater variety of housing options,the City should With much of Elk River's core already built-outwith estab- encourage context sensitive duplexes,quadplexes,town- lishedresidential areas,context-sensitive infill develop- homes,courtyard buildings,and cottage courts.These ment is vital to increasing housing choice moving forward types of residential developments should follow standards while preserving the cherished character of Elk River's influencing building height,orientation,setbacks,and neighborhoods.This includes supporting the development other design characteristics to ensure compatibility with of vacant or underutilized lots as well as redevelopment surrounding development and neighborhood character. of aging properties into higher density missing middle housing types,discussed in greater detail on the following pages. Context Sensitive Infill Contextually sensitive infill housing,like the duplex shown in this diagram,can allow for increased density in established i neighborhoods in a manner that does not alter community Existing character. Single-Family Home �r a ~` Infill Duplex Existing Single-Family Home Elk River Comprehensive Plan Housing Plan 33 DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY Missing middle housing sits in the middle of the development spectrum between single-family homes and mid-rise to high- rise apartment buildings.This graphic illustrates the housing types that typically make up missing middle housing in scale and form and is intended to highlight the variety of housing options included under the missing middle housing category. -..yTa 1f "" ---_—_ — -- _ - _ __ - -- - pup\ex S\ng\eFaMX 11 ......... ................... petached ................... ......... S\ M Promote a Minimum Distribution of Housing Types in New Subdivisions Elk River is challenged by a very tight housing market with low vacancy and a need for housing units that are attain- able to households across a range of income levels.The _ City's 2018 Comprehensive Housing Market Study found r that to meet the demand for housing through 2025 the community needs to add a minimum of 690 new housing units consisting of roughly 115 senior housing units,235 rental units(combined market rate and affordable),and 320 owner-occupied housing units. ' To meet this near-term housing demand and accommo- date long-term growth through 2035,the City should be --- proactive in promoting the development of a diverse mix . of housing types,with a focus on missing middle housing r+, types.The City should consider revising its subdivision s development standards to require a minimum range of housing types in new neighborhood developments. For example,requiring a minimum of 10%of units to be provided in duplexes/townhomes in all new subdivision development would ensure that developers do not exclu- sively build single-family detached homes and provide r, 1 ' JAZ missing middle housing types that include more affordable options. may.The Comprehensive Housing Market Study recommen- dations should be used to help determine an appropriate Middle Housing Type Examples range for the required distribution of housing types. 34 Housing Plan Elk River Comprehensive Plan DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY J k� - v_ ------------------- ---- - T ownhouse ....................... Cottage \ ........................ G \N Court .................................... S E H o NOTE:Houseal Lavigne illustration based on \� Con ress or New Urbanism diagram o missing M 9 f 9 f 9 middle housing types by Opticos Design,Inc. Missing Middle Housing Types Missing middle housing types range from low density duplexes to mid density multiplexes and triplexes and are under represented in Elk River's housing stock.These housing types provide opportunities for the City to increase the diversity of its housing stock while maintaining the neighborhood character and small-town feel Elk River residents love.Missing middle housing types that the City should consider accommodating more broadly include: Duplex(Side-by-side)-A one to Courtyard Building-A medium-to- Multiplex-A detached two-and-a-half two-story detached structure that consists large sized one to three-and-a-half story story structure that consists of five to 12 of two dwelling units arranged side-by- detached structure consisting of multiple dwelling units arranged side-by-side and/ side,each with an entry from the street. side-by-side and/or stacked dwelling units or stacked,typically with a shared entry This type has the appearance of a small- oriented around a courtyard or series of from the street.This type has the appear- to-medium sized single-family house and courtyards.The courtyard replaces the ance of a medium-to-large sized single- may include a rear yard. function of a rear yard and is more open to family home and does not include a rear the street in low intensity neighborhoods yard. Duplex(Stacked)-A two to two-and-a- and less open to the street in more urban half-story detached structure that consists settings.Each unit is accessed from the Triplex-A small-to-medium sized of two dwelling units arranged one above courtyard and shared stairs provide access detached structure with three to three- the other,each with an entry from the up to three units. and-a-half-stories that consists of three street.This type has the appearance of units typically stacked on top of each a small-to-medium sized single-family Cottage Court-A group of small one to other on consecutive floors.Triplexes have house,may include a rear yard,and fits one-and-a-half-story,detached struc- one entry for the ground floor unit and on narrower lots than the side-by-side tures arranged around a shared court a shared entry for those above.This type duplex. visible from the street.The shared court does not include a rear yard. is an important community-enhancing Quadplex-A detached two to two-and- element and unit entrances are from the Live-Work-A small-to medium-sized a-half-story structure with four dwelling shared court.It replaces the function of a attached or detached structure consisting units,two on the ground floor and two rear yard.The rear-most building can be of one dwelling unit above orb ehind above,with shared or individual entrances up to two stories. a fire-separated flexible ground floor from the street.This type has the appear- space that can accommodate a range of ance of a medium-sized single-family Townhome-A small-to medium-sized non-residential uses.This housing type is house and may include a rear yard.This attached structure that consists of three typically two to three-and-a-half-stories type is attractive to developers by gener- to six multistory dwelling units placed tall.The flex space and residential unit ating four units on a typical 65'-80'lot. side-by-side.Entries are on the narrow typically have separate street entrances. side of the unit and typically face a street The flex space typically has a taller height, or courtyard.The street fagades have minimum 10 feet,and a storefront.This entrances and avoid garages. type does not include a rear yard. Elk River Comprehensive Plan•Housing Plan 35 DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY Encourage Quality To promote more efficient and sustainable development, Materials and Design the City should establish standards of review for subdi- vision applications that follow best practices in smart To ensure development reflects the community's desire growth.By establishing these standards,the City would for high quality and attractive housing,the City should not only clearly communicate its preference for sustain- encourage the use of high quality materials,design,and able development,but would also ensure that elected construction in all new development.The Pullman Place and appointed officials are protected from arbitrary and Cooperative multifamily 65+community living develop- capricious decisions regarding the approval or denial of ment is a good example of high quality design and comple- subdivision applications. mentary architectural style that is context sensitive and should be used as a model for future multifamily develop- P roactiv ly U -Zone to Align meat. with the Land Use Plan Practice Smart Growth The City should consider proactively up-zoning existing neighborhoods,as identified in the Housing Plan,for The City should practice smart growth that prioritizes infill higher density housing.Municipal utilities currently have development and discourages greenfield development. the capacity to support higher density development within As infill opportunities become limited,expansion of the these areas and permitting multifamily and mixed resi- Urban Service Area will be necessary.A smart growth dential in strategic areas would help alleviate housing approach to the expansion of the Urban Service Area demand.By eliminating barriers to development,the City would ensure that areas made available for new develop- will communicate to developers that higher density infill ment have access to municipal utilities,are not in a flood development is a priority of the City.Up-zoning has the hazard area or wetland,have access to roadways with potential to add more affordable market rate homes in capacity to support additional traffic,and can be connected already well-connected and established neighborhoods to existing neighborhoods and destinations in the City. and expand housing choice. Potential (Roadway • .` Extensions Residential 35 a �+ Growth Area p Existin 4#deotial Nei AL 36 Housing Plan Elk River Comprehensive Plan DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY Conventional Development Practice Conservation Design Conservation design subdivision development,also known as cluster I ■ development,is an approach to residential development that preserves contiguous areas of open space and natural areas by clustering smaller residential parcels on select areas of a site.The overall housing density ' within the development remains the same,but the site design allows for --- larger areas of open space to remain intact and used to preserve wetlands, floodplains,or other natural features,and shared as neighborhood or community parkland.The Housing Character Areas map identifies ♦ ` wetlands and floodplain areas throughout the City.Residential parcels that ® � oaiand are within the Urban Service Area and the floodplain and wetland overlay [ icons a�Yon f should be considered for conservation design.To encourage this type of development,it is recommended that the City update its subdivision ordi- Conservation Design Development nance to include provisions for the allowance of this type of development for residential and commercial development as well as business parks, Steep where appropriate.Provisions should include: i Terrain .— 0 ■ • Prioritized list of resources to be conserved including existing tree Trails ♦ • 1 canopy; Percent of total land area to be conserved as permanent protected, unity public open S DetentionSpace p ace;p p � Pond 1F • Incentive for increased density in exchange for land conservation;and , • Design guidelines for the layout of streets,lots,and conservation areas. Bred Development _ rr a Nei 'sting Tree Canopy Water/Wetland Retention Area ,a. Connections to Trail and Sidewalk Adjacent Neighborhoods Connections Elk River Comprehensive Plan Housing Plan 37 DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY Implement Green Infrastructure ` The Elk River watershed spans 613 square miles and has suffered from high levels of pollutants in the past.Since '`> A0, 1994,roughly 275 water improvement projects have been conducted on the watershed.Better water quality has been recorded in both Lake Orono and Elk Lake over the last 10 years,however these water bodies still exceed the threshold for what the State considers a safe level of bacteria.Water is an integral part of the City's identity and keeping it clean,safe,and accessible should be a top ® \ priority.Impervious surfaces related to urban development within the watershed are a major cause of pollutants such as oil,metals,lawn chemicals,pet waste and other pollut- ants reaching surface waters especially in extreme rainfall and storm events. ` To reduce the runoff of pollutants into the Elk River water- shed the City should consider implementing development standards for all new subdivisions that incorporate green infrastructure design.Green infrastructure design strate- gies include,but are not limited to the following: • Utilize low impact design best practices to minimize runoff and manage stormwater onsite; • Pervious pavement on sidewalks,streets,and driveways; • Planted medians and parkways with curb cuts to collect water runoff; • Use non-chlorine(road salt)snow and ice control; _ y4 111 III'; • Fertilizer application control; • Bioswales and raingardens to collect and naturally filter water before it enters the watershed. Example:green stormwater infrastructure 38 Housing Plan•Elk River Comprehensive Plan DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY Establish Roadway/Sidewalk/ Common Open Space Trail Network Connections New developments in areas underserved by existing parks, To promote connections between existing neighborhoods as identified in the Parks and Recreation Master Plan, and new developments,improve emergency service should also incorporate common open space to provide response time,and reduce congestion at peak commute passive or active recreation opportunities for residents. travel times into and out of existing neighborhoods,the Providing open space is especially crucial for new devel- City should establish a robust network of pedestrian and opment in the northern portion of the City,as much of this vehicular connections.The City should consider estab- area is outside of the City's neighborhood park service area lishing subdivision regulations that require new develop- walkshed.This means homes in this area are not within ments provide a minimum level of connectivity internally walking distance of a park. and with adjacent neighborhoods.In addition,new devel- opments should also provide connections to the existing trail network following the Trails MasterPlan and the Parks and Recreation MasterPlan. The City should also consider establishing a street hier- archy for subdivision streetscape elements that unify future development.Requiring sidewalks with uniform widths,parkways,and landscaping will improve connec- tivity while enhancing aesthetic continuity between and within neighborhoods. SIDEWALK & TRAIL CONNECTIONS 11111121 10, On 01 Air 1A 1A Ar VOW- 41 AL 10 100 41 ' nsi Elk River Comprehensive Plan Housing Plan 39 DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY 77 '/;7777/�7 f 32 ilux / 227STAVE Nw1!/ / / 2215TAVENW /j 169 / //''i; / / / 09THAVE'NW 33 //% 32 xx X93 RDgVE V�//., 44 792ND-AVE•,V6y 40 SCHOOL ST NW uS,41GHWAY=IANW � 169 10 ST <I `181ST-AUE-NW 12 MISSISSIPP-MISSISSIPPI - 101 / 1 T75THAjj NW HousingCharacter Areas / While the policies and strategies described in the City-wide Housing Policies section apply to all neighborhoods in Elk River,the variety and unique character of residential areas throughout the City requires a more i targeted approach to planning.This section identifies the City's distinct neighborhoods by desired development and character,and provides specific policies to preserve community image,increase density,or 65fi"AVENW expand housing options in these portions of Elk River. 10 / �/� Character Areas Rural Residenuial Station Area Residential Riverfront Residential ? �o. Established Neighborhoods Ranch Road Corridor Wetlands and Floodplains ,yam Downtown/Uppertown Twin Lakes Road Corridor ❑ Future Urban Service Area Downtown Neighborhood Gravel Mining Area 40 Riverfront Trail Public Easement 40 Housing Plan Elk River Comprehensive Plan y R r I n P :4 Rural Residential Shared Septic Rural residential areas include established rural residen- Many rural residential areas utilize shared septic systems tial developments in the north of the City.Rural residential for wastewater treatment.As these systems age,they is located outside of the Urban Service Area and is not become increasingly expensive to maintain.The Windsor connected to any municipal utilities.As such,these devel- subdivision development in the northwest of the City opments typically utilize septic and wells for sewer and has already reached out to the City to request municipal water.Rural residential features large lots that are typically service extension to connect their shared septic system located off of arterial roadways.While large lots are the into the City's service lines. primary type of development,the rural residential char- In the future,the City may be asked to connect more devel- acter area also includes some subdivision developments. opments into the municipal sewer system.As such,the Because rural residential is located outside of the Urban City should be prepared to handle these requests and work Service Area it is not recommended for increased residen- with residents and the Public Works Department to design tial development. a balanced approach for such service extensions in the future.The Infrastructure&Urban Service Area Manage- Encourage Trail & Sidewalk Connections ment Plan Chapter further elaborates on how shared septic While many of the existing rural residential subdivisions systems can be connected to the Elk River municipal sewer have limited sidewalks and connections to neighboring system. subdivisions,they are well positioned to incorporate extensions to the City's adopted Trails MasterPlan network. m` Elk River should encourage the creation of these trail and pathway connections throughout existing rural residential neighborhoods as infrastructure maintenance occurs.This will promote walkability and connect residents to the City's parks and other destinations.In addition,the City should 4 also encourage new rural residential development incor- A porate sidewalks,make connections to adjacent neighbor- <;e y hoods,and provide access to the City's trail network. 7�ti". I Example:Area with shared septic in Elk River Elk River Comprehensive Plan Housing Plan 41 DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY Established Residential Expand Pedestrian Connections Established residential areas include stable neighborhoods Existing pedestrian routes within established residen- or subdivisions with primarily single-family detached tial areas should be tied into the future trails network as development.The majority of these neighborhoods were roadway improvements are made to provide seamless built over 40 years ago in the north,west,and more connections and access to key destinations in the City. recently in the east of the City.Established residential areas New development should provide a complete network of are within the existing Urban Service Area and are directly sidewalks and roadways that support access to adjacent connected to municipal sewer and water.Established neighborhoods and provide seamless ties to the City's trail residential areas include a variety of block layouts but are network that make it easy to walk,bike,or drive. primarily curvilinear.Many of the existing established resi- dential neighborhoods feature sidewalks and connections Encourage Density to adjacent neighborhoods. The majority of established residential areas consist of only single-family detached home.Although the character Strategic Infill of these neighborhoods is desirable,they do not maximize While much of the established residential areas in the City the development potential of residential land within the are built out,there are still opportunities for infill develop- City's Urban Service Area.Mixed residential development, ment.Areas of strategic infill development,as identified which encourages a range of compatible housing types in the Housing Character Areas map,are intended to fill within a single residential development,is one strategy gaps between existing neighborhoods.In addition,stra- that should be used to accommodate greater variety within tegic infill should be contextually sensitive to surrounding Elk River's housing stock and allow for more flexibility to development and provide opportunities to further expand build desirable and more dense residential development. pedestrian and vehicular mobility between neighborhoods Mixed residential should also be utilized to provide a buffer and across the City.As such,it is key that infill development from lower intensity traditional single-family neighbor- provide a robust network of sidewalks and roadways that hoods to higher intensity uses such as multifamily,mixed linkup to existing roadways/sidewalks/paths in adjacent use,or commercial development. neighborhoods. 42 Housing Plan•Elk River Comprehensive Plan DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY 4 . _ "- �I n IN P, Downtown Neighborhoods The City should consider updating its land development regulations to allow ADUs in all mixed residential and Downtown neighborhoods,as highlighted on the Housing single-family neighborhoods,especially those surrounding Character Areas map,include the residential neighbor- the Downtown.The update should include design stan- dards that ensure ADUs are contextual and do not alter the hoods feature some of the oldest homes in the City with overall character of neighborhoods,whether the ADU is construction of some dating back to the turn of the 20th internal or attached to the primary residence or external century of the primary residence and above or in the place of a garage.Design standards could control the location of ADU Promote Accessory Dwelling Units entrances to minimize visibility from the street,control Accessory Dwelling Units(ADUs)sometimes called bulk and massing to ensure the design of the structure "granny flats",can provide for greater density in existing reflects the design of the primary residence,and more. single-family neighborhoods without altering established community character.ADUs also provide opportunities for multi-generational housing,supporting parents or grand- parents who downsize. Attached Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU) ADU Accessory dwelling units can be designed and permitted through a variety of configurations.This diagram represents three of the most common configurations.ADU design should fit within the context of the existing residential neighborhood. External ADU Y„ Attic L` 1y Internal ADU ff Basement Internal ADU Elk River Comprehensive Plan Housing Plan 43 DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY f- �r • A 'X a•� I Reinvest in Existing Housing Encourage Expansions of Existing Investing in the oldest homes built in Elk River not only Single-Family Detached Homes improves the appearance and overall attractiveness of Many homes in the Downtown neighborhoods have historic neighborhoods and the vibrancy of the Down- considerable yard space before they would be restricted town,but also helps support the largest source of naturally by rear setback requirements.However,the maximum occurring affordable housing in the community.Studies lot coverage for these parcels is a major restriction to completed by the U.S.Department of Housing and Urban any expansion of these homes.Making it easy to expand Development(HUD)have found that older houses typically existing single-family detached homes can help diver- maintain lower rents and sales prices than newer housing sify the overall housing stock in the City and also allow and as such make up the majority of affordable non-gov- homeowners to meet the needs of their growing family, ernment subsidized housing across the United States. modernize their homes,and make them more marketable The City should work alongside the Housing and Rede- in the long run,while still fitting within the existing neigh- velopment Authority(HRA) to encourage and enforce the borhood character.The City should encourage expansions continued maintenance and reinvestment in these critical by reducing barriers to design,permitting,and construc- neighborhoods to ensure a healthy,diverse,and affordable tion through a variety of means such as: housing stock is available to residents of Elk River. • Assessing and amending residential district bulk and Waive License and Permit Fees dimensional standards to allow for higher lot coverage; Associated with Maintenance • Waiving or reducing permitting fees on certain project Reinvestment into the exterior of a home can be expensive types; and time consuming.Although most costs are associated • Providing community information sessions on how with materials and labor,other costs may stem from the to complete permit applications for homeowners fee to place a dumpster or receive a license or permit.The completing their own work; City should consider working with a contracted partner Providing assistance to homeowners on how to find a for trash collection to waive these fees for a limited time licensed contractor in the City; period every year to encourage homeowners to reinvest in their properties.For example,the cost to place a dumpster Providing information sessions/guidance on how to could be lowered or eliminated for groups of five or more schedule inspections once work is complete;and neighbors looking to improve their homes and neighbor- . Expanding inspection times to include weekends and/or hood. hours after the standard workday from 5:0Opm-7:0Opm. In addition,the City should also advertise the Housing and Redevelopment Authority as a key resource for low and moderate income homeowners looking to complete home expansions in the City.The Housing and Redevelopment Authority is a public corporation empowered to undertake certain types of housing and redevelopment projects in the City.The HRA has resources and funds available for home- owners to make improvements to their properties located within the Urban Service Area. 44 Housing Plan•Elk River Comprehensive Plan DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY a•:. qq 4IIOy''/?'vL' L�• i 'i _►--�—_--�� Wr `�Yl,'�i�►'1 _ � : ,. .. .rs� �iYIYWIYIRY �„n:�'r: Downtown/Uptown The Downtown/Uptown area consists of a mix of uses including commercial,multifamily,and mixed use devel- 'r” opments with residential units or offices above ground i/ floor commercial space.The building stock in the Down- town/Uptown features some of the most historic structures I Yi in the City.Although this is a great asset,it also presents unique challenges related to maintenance,adaptive ■ reuse,and the ability to meet current market demand.In addition,the built-out nature of the historic Downtown provides limited opportunities for infill which makes rede- velopment a key aspect of supporting housing in the area. Downtown Mixed Use Leverage the Waterfront The Mississippi River is a fantastic amenity that provides recreation,leisure,and waterfront views that are extremely _ attractive to residential developers.The City should leverage this asset to require developers in the Downtown E to create new public connections to the waterfront and for properties along the water's edge to provide a public easement for the future Mississippi River Trail extension. See the Economic Development Chapter for more details on how the waterfront can be utilized to leverage desired development and connections. 45�` Rivers Edge Commons Park Elk River Comprehensive Plan Housing Plan 45 DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY k ; y . �t ALI Riverfront Residential Station Area Residential The northern portion of the Riverfront Residential area is The area directly surrounding the Northstar Station is identified for high density housing along the riverfront to identified for mixed residential with multifamily directly take advantage of river views and to provide public river- adjacent the Station.This area should be developed with front access and amenities.Due to this areas proximity to multiple connections to surrounding developments that the busy Highway 10 commercial corridor,deep setbacks provide easy access to commercial uses to the south and and landscape buffering should be encouraged to ensure a promote walkability with a complete network of sidewalks. pleasant residential environment. The area north of the Northstar Station,identified as"Hill- side Heights'in the FAST District Plan,is recommended for The southern portion of the Riverfront Residential area, mixed residential development.This area should provide should be developed as mixed residential with a combina- a transition to lower density housing to the north of 175th tion of small lot single-family detached homes,duplexes, Avenue to seamlessly integrate into the existing residen- and townhomes.This area is an extension of the existing tial neighborhoods surrounding the site and to fill the gap residential areas along Yale Street and should be well between them.In addition,new housing development connected to these existing homes.Common recreational should complement existing housing in the subarea and amenities should be included in future development and leverage the existing natural amenities including wetlands take advantage of the adjacency to the river. and woodland views,preserving tree canopy and these Further,the City contains many mature trees which natural amenities utilizing best practices in conservation provide numerous benefits to the community including design where possible. shade,wildlife habitat,and aesthetic character.Wherever possible mature trees should be preserved and incorpo- rated into new development as open space amenities and utilized to buffer or screen residential and lower density developments from higher intensity land uses such as commercial and the highway. 46 Housing Plan•Elk River Comprehensive Plan DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY / 227STAVEnN✓ // j,/ // 221ST'AVENW 169 I �F � j j� / p // 209TF1 Al/E N 33 33 i /'/ CSO` / y 44 35 792/yp.AVE'lVW 40 OOLSTN IGHWAY-ID-N\ 169 ( 13 / N 10 `� "w/ /j MISSISSIPPI-RD-N 12 W� �� F815T--AVE=N // Aja �iZSTHAIEI.W.J 107 Urban Service Expansion Areas The following areas of the City are highlighted for Urban Service Area Expansion.These areas have the capacity to support additional residential development that leverage existing roadway infrastructure. 0THAVE NW Character Areas 10 �� Ranch Road Corridor Future Urban Service Area Gsy Gam% !c Twin Lakes Road Corridor Wetlands and Floodplains �yq� Gravel Mining Area Elk River Comprehensive Plan Housing Plan /I 47 Twin Lakes Road Corridor 2 9 HAKE w The Twin Lakes Road corridor,located between 209th Avenue and Elk River Station,is being studied for capacity improvements and if widened,is well positioned to _ support additional traffic that coincides with residential subdivision development.Traditional single-family neigh- borhood development should be encouraged in this area with an emphasis on conservation design that supports z the preservation of the existing wetlands and tree canopy of in this area. ? Q f Much of the undeveloped land in the northern and eastern ter— portions of Elk River is impacted by wetlands and at risk for flood hazard from the Trott Brook Creek.Given the demand for additional housing and limited infill opportunities in '793 RD'gV�.� the southern and western portions of the City,new housing is likely to be built in close proximity to these important environmental features.Although it is essential to develop g p �, w new housing to accommodate Elk River's population growth,it is also critical that the City protects its natural ` resources and ensures new development is sustainable. As such the City should require conservation design in this a z area for all new residential development. �i 13 Z Ranch Road Corridor Municipal services are already planned to extend into the �,i as*rdve;ruw 12 northern Ranch Road corridor to connect the Windsor neighborhood shared septic system into municipal service lines.Over the long term,the City should also consider zz,srau Nw extending water to facilitate future development. With this planned extension,the area would have capacity to support additional residential development.Infill i development in this area should be complementary to and _ W connected with existing subdivisions,such as the Windsor development,through the provision of sidewalks or trail o connections.The service extension also creates oppor- tunities for higher density residential development on F ' existing large lot residential lands and undeveloped areas. To accommodate this,the City should consider revising the 1 dimensional standards of the zoning districts that regulate these areas to allow for lot subdivision. ss 32 48 Housing Plan Elk River Comprehensive Plan DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY Gravel MiningArea The portion of the Gravel Mining Area west of Highway 169 and 205th Avenue,where mining operations are projected to cease within the next 5 to 10 years,is identified for o high-density residential development.Mixed residen- tial development is recommended in the portion of this area closest to Highway 169 to serve as a transition to the 33 primarily single-family detached neighborhood develop- meet to the south and west.New development in this area '� f should provide connections to the existing neighborhood in the south through a robust network of sidewalks.In addition,this development should also be buffered from industrial activity to the north with deep setbacks and ; landscaped buffers. The area south of Proctor Road is identified for traditional single-family neighborhood development that blends with o � . existing residential development within the current Urban Service Area to the south.Development in this area should ' ! be well connected to the Woodlands Trail Park to the west. Elk River Comprehensive Plan•Housing Plan 49 DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY UMM��ON MIIIIIIIIIIIII NOW EC / 111 'aw illll1i yli l+� • . aa•,•,11 Y Y it• I� I ..0 u Park Dental • Elk River's commercial districts,business parks,and industrial ` mt areas provide essential access to goods,services,and em to - II ; 6- ment.The highway corridors and Downtown anchor the bulk of commercial and industrial uses in the City and implementation t �J of projects like Redefine 169 will bolster economic growth.The Economic Development Plan provides policies and recommen- dations designed to guide such economic growth in line with the community's desired vision for the future.The following pages include detailed discussion on best practices and recom- mendations to support the two goals of the Economic Develop- _ ~ ment Plan,focused on strengthening commerce and expanding _._ G • employment opportunities within the City. i . 0 Elk River Comprehensive Plan Economic Development Plan 51 DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY Economic Development Vision Statement inter- ested in enjoying i night outfor shopping,dining,and entertainment.The Downtown will leverage its waterfront to anchor events and draw thousands to the area.Pedestrian connections throughout the Downtown will be enhanced,encouraging visitors topark once and explore onfoot.Expanded optionsfor retail and dining in the north and west sides of the communitywill ensure convenient access to goods and services throughout the City.Elk River will maintaini manufacturing sector by continuing to leverage its regional including Highway 169 and Highway10,and providing opportunitiesfor large lots that allow established busi- nesses to expand and new businesses tofind their home. ]I,— Goal 1 : Continue to strengthen Downtown Elk River and the Highway 169 corridor as a regional shopping and entertainment destinations while expanding access to local-serving commercial in Elk River's growth areas. Policies: • Expand the Downtown. • Support public space and events in the Downtown. • Leverage Highway 169 and facilitate strategic redevelopment. • Establish neighborhood commercial nodes. • Support and expand wayfinding and gateways into Downtown. • Strengthen Elk River's community identity. • Encourage complementing hotel and entertainment development. Goal 2: Bolster Elk River's economy through the retention,attraction, and expansion of a diverse mix of office and industrial busi- nesses. Policies: • Create opportunities for large lot industrial sites. • Support office and business park development. • Streamline supporting regulations for the FAST District. • Facilitate a smooth transition of the Gravel Mining Area from oper- ation to development. DevelopmentEconomic DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY City-wide Economic Development Policies Elk River is well positioned to be a regional destination for shopping,dining,and employment.The following policies relate to the overarching goals of the Economic Development Plan to enhance,strengthen,and expand opportunities for commercial and industrial growth in the City and provide guidance that applies to all commercial and industrial development. Proactively Rezone Parcels To support this,the City should consider proactively Elk River is a vibrant and desirable place to have a business rezoning parcels identified for Downtown expansion as which is illustrated by the overall lack of vacant storefronts well as parcels identified for highway commercial uses along Main Street and in the City's commercial corridors. to the zoning district that would accommodate the type Currently the only infill development opportunities in of development envisioned in those areas. For example, the Downtown core are parking lots that support existing the parcels on the south side of Main Street west of Angle Downtown businesses.Similarly,few vacant sites are avail- Street and on the north side west of Morton Ave are able along Highway 169 or Highway 10.Limited options currently zoned R-1c,these are prime redevelopment exist for existing businesses to expand or to accommodate opportunity sites that should be rezoned to the Downtown new businesses desiring to locate within the City.The lack District to allow for more commercial and housing devel- of vacancy coupled with limited development opportune- opment,this also would open up land along the Mississippi ties underscores a need to expand the City's commercial River for future extension of the waterfront trail. districts or intensify use of established areas. 5 wo - 1 - - Elk River Comprehensive Plan Economic Development Plan 53 DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY a Develop "Third Places" Future development should provide opportunities for enhanced placemaking,public art,community Iden- Developers could also be required to choose a minimum tity,and development of"third places"Third places are number of amenities from a list including features such informal areas where residents and visitors can meet and as lighted bollards,movable tables and chairs,fountains or other water features,benches,seat walls or raised land- gather outside of home(first place)or work(second place). These amenities offer an opportunity for social interaction scape planters,or public art. and can anchor civic life in Elk River.Third places such In the Downtown,the City could offer a fee-in-lieu of as small plazas and parklets can serve as focal points for providing the outdoor gathering space on site to go future pedestrian activity,functioning as an amenity to towards the expansion and enhancement of Rivers Edge business patrons as well as residents and visitors.Third Commons Park and improvements to the public realm. places should be integrated into all new commercial devel- opment whether it be Downtown or along Highways 169 or 10. � To support the creation of third places,the City should consider establishing a requirement for new commer- cial development of a certain size to provide a minimum square footage of public gathering space as well as stan- dards for how the space should be activated.For example, y the City could require developments with multiple commercial buildings or buildings with more than 100,000 square feet include an outdoor gathering space equal to 5% of the building area. In addition,the City should consider reducing the number of required parking spaces for commercial developments Example:Benches providing space to sit,rest,or socialize in Rivers by increasing the requirement for floor area ratio(FAR)per Edge Commons Park parking space.This would help to incentivize the develop- ment of third spaces on site and reduce excessive parking lots in the development. 54 Economic Development Plan•Elk River Comprehensive Plan DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY Support Outlot Development Outlet development in underutilized parking areas helps maximize development potential while decreasing the visual impact of surface lots within commercial develop- ment. Outlot development can help screen parking areas and provide a more enclosed pedestrian environment. It would also provide new opportunities for commercial development along the primarily built out Highway 169 corridor. To promote outlet development,the City should review and assess its land development regulations and elimi- nate any barriers to the consolidation and development of Example:"Third Place"providing activity space for children parking lots along the Highway 169 corridor.Barriers couldUNDERUTILIZED PARKING • include onerous parking requirements,a lack of flexibility for shared parking or off-site parking,or excessive setback requirements.The City should also consider establishing standards for outlet development that address the unique needs of these types of buildings,including the need for additional signage facing parking areas and rights-of-way, and the need to accommodate service areas while mini- mizing their visibility. "THIRD PLACE" & OUTLOT DEVELOPMENT (Underutilized LZ Clear Pedestrain Circulation �- �dewalk C•onnect�ons within Pathwa s in Parkin Lot Site and to Surrounding y g Neighborhood ' Nd N\ "Third Place PYublic Gathering Areas E� e ' �.......... Development Holds the Frontage of the Site Elk River Comprehensive Plan Economic Development Plan 55 DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY Maintain and Enhance the Appearance Promote Access and Mobility of Commercial Corridors Much of the commercial and industrial development in The appearance of commercial corridors is essential in Elk River is accessible primarily by vehicle and requires attracting new businesses and patrons.Although the patrons and employees to drive rather than walk due to a City's commercial areas are generally well kept,deferred lack of bicycle parking and on-site pedestrian connections. maintenance may begin as properties and businesses age. The ability to walk or bike to work or to shop is not only To combat this,Elk River should continue to encourage healthy for people and the environment,it is also increas- property owners to enhance their properties overall ingly a factor taken into consideration when people and attractiveness by investing in upkeep of parking lots, families are deciding where to live.To ensure that the City's building facades,landscaping,and other elements.To commercial and industrial corridors are accessible via further improve the appearance of these corridors,the City all modes of transportation,the City should require new should consider enhancing its standards for landscaping, development to provide bicycle parking and pedestrian signs,and other site improvements as well as standards walkways from public sidewalks to building entrances for building materials to boost the appearance of these and between adjacent buildings.Further,Elk River should areas over time.To incentivize reinvestment,the City encourage developments to integrate wayfinding signage should consider expanding the Downtown Revitalization to clearly communicate to patrons that walking between Financing Loan program,discussed later in this Chapter,to businesses is easy and efficient.To promote safety,the City businesses outside of Downtown. should reduce curb cuts and consolidate access points on The City should continue to work with the Economic Devel- side streets and alleys. opment Authority to recognize business owners whose Additionally,the City should consider studying the feasi- efforts to clean,repair,improve,and enhance the overall bility of a shuttle and/or bike service at Northstar Station to aesthetics of either the interior or exterior of the business, help complete the last mile connection between the station property and/or space through the Beautification Award and the City's employment areas. Program. t Sidewalk Connections within Site and to Surrounding Neighborhood 10 No Sidewalks r - within Site Reduced r Multiple Curb Cuts Curb Cuts Internal Vehicular Circulation No Internal a Connections " Need for Footpath/ Connection 1 '14 ` �! BAD GOOD 56 Economic Development Plan•Elk River Comprehensive Plan DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY Continue to Appropriately Buffer and Screen Many commercial and industrial sites in the City are \ directly adjacent to residential neighborhoods.To mini- mize the conflicts between these disparate land uses, . such as noise and light pollution which can diminish the desirability of residential areas,the City has effectively required buffering and separation.As the City continues to yam" ru grow,it is essential that it maintains its high standards for buffering and screening to safeguard the high quality of life that is currently experienced in Elk River.Additionally,the Example:Median pedestrian refuge island City should ensure that existing commercial and industrial sites adjacent to residential neighborhoods do not inten- sify their activity in a manner that would create further conflicts. 0 metraransit , 9 i, 1 Example:Bike parking stations near the Elk River Station Example:Industrial screening residential view(Faribault Foods) INDUSTRIAL SCREENING iv" am""' k 44 WNW 3 ko 100 FT Building Setback from Street , ,�. Berm Evergreen Tree Plantings _ 0 r ! 183rd Avenu i w Residential Development Elk River Comprehensive Plan Economic Development Plan 57 DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY Develop a Branding and Create a Community Ambassador Position Promotional Campaign To further promote Elk River,the City should consider The City should work with the Chamber of Commerce to creating a Community Ambassador position within the develop a branding and promotional campaign that would Economic Development Department.Community ambas- set the Elk River apart from other communities in the sadors or ombudsmen play key roles in economic devel- region.The campaign could build off of the powered by opment by attracting new business and guiding potential nature slogan and leverage the outdoor activities offered investors through the development approval process. by the City that many people"escape"to"cabin country' The City's Community Ambassador could act as the voice to find.The City should leverage its unique position as and face of the Economic Development Department for the gateway to Minnesota's"cabin country"to promote its businesses to directly interact with as a point of contact. regional parks,conservation areas,and unique outdoor The Community Ambassador should be competent in the adventure venues like ERX and Hillside Mountain Bike entire suite of incentives the City offers through its Busi- Trail to attract new residents,businesses,and tourism ness Toolbox and be able to guide new businesses through to the City.Promoting the City's hiking,hunting,fishing, applications and the ins and outs of various incentive boating,swimming,mountain biking,and off-road vehicle programs.In addition,the Community Ambassador should amenities through a targeted promotional campaign has also be plugged into state and regional initiatives available the potential to attract residents interested in having easy through organizations such as the Greater Minneapolis access to their favorite activities and hobbies,businesses Saint Paul Economic Development Partnership. that target and are supported by the populations,as well as boost sports and outdoor tourism in the City. The campaign should also build off of the Together Elk A. River initiative which encourages the support of local busi- nesses.The initiative was established during the COVID-19 '� pandemic to support the Elk River business and nonprofit :t community and is a partnership between the City and Chamber of Commerce. I, ;w Explore Minnesota The City should work with the Chamber of Commerce to ensure Explore Minnesota(Minnesota's State tourism website)features a more robust description of things to do when visiting the City including links to the ERX website and City Parks and Recreation page.In addition,the Chamber of Commerce should consider adding a Visit tab to its website to include an up to date list of activities such as when hunting and trapping season opens as well as a schedule of events held at the ERX facility. Downtown Marketing In addition to City-wide branding and promotion,the campaign should also include Downtown and Uptown specific strategies that distinguish the areas as unique F, destinations in Elk River.This should include design Y standards for streetlamp banners,plantings,benches, and other street furniture that visually distinguish the areas from one another but tie each together as distinct districts.The Shoppes at Arbor Lakes in Maple Grove are a good example of how gateway signage,streetscaping,and banners can be used to showcase a downtown as a unified district. 58 Economic Development Plan Elk River Comprehensive Plan DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY II 1,. 127ST AVE NW 2215TAVE NW « J 169 tzt 3 z �A�CH RD Nay — J Q Q Q 209TH=AVE=NWJ1 1 �� ,. 33 44V r 33 32 m' o F Q Q 24 Z � IN ��■ '93RD.4VE 44 3 5 192ND AVE NW 46 /j SCHOOL=ST N HIGH WAY_-i0.N 169 WS \ os, �� \ � 10 6M 13 MISSISSIPPI \\ —18.1ST-AVE=N 72 1\ W o Economic Development 01 F—»I "AT" VENW�� Character Areas p CC)rrIm1 1 Clal al u inuu Arial arcaa in Elk River vary in terms of market service ) area character,and relationship to other development and transportation systems.Given this variety within the City,each of these areas is approached with unique policies and recommendations in the Economic Development Character Areas Plan which build upon the overall strategies that apply to all 165THAVE NW commercial and industrial areas.The Plan serves to further strengthen and 10 leverage economic opportunities in Elk River and support the enhanced -� delivery of goods,products,and jobs in the City. Character Areas y%y ■ Downtown ■ GRE Plant Reuse Northstar Commercial �9 ■ Uptown Highway 10 Commercial ■ Neighborhood Commercial ■ Business Park ■ Highway 169 Commercial Highway 10/169 Commercial ■ ERX Commercial ■ Industrial Q FAST District Elk River Comprehensive Plan•Economic Development Plan 59 DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY I Ir p �1'77pp -=9Pu 1 u !�� o III X11111111' _ . � al�odlillllllllllli► i►��►I Neighborhood Commercial Create Design Standards for Neighborhoods in the far northeast and northwest of the Neighborhood Commercial City should have greater access to goods and services. The City should establish design standards to direct the New neighborhood commercial development should be scale,appearance,orientation,and overall character of strategically located at major intersections in primarily new neighborhood commercial areas.The design stan- residential areas that would benefit from having additional dards should discourage cookie-cutter design and require commercial options nearby.Neighborhood commercial architecture that is contextual to the surrounding residen- uses should include local-serving commercial that provide tial neighborhood.Contextual architecture should take into surrounding residents with daily goods and services like consideration the bulk and massing of adjacent buildings specialty food stores,daycares,or cafes.Neighborhood and improve facades with articulation and design details commercial should also be designed to knit into the fabric like cornices,transoms,window hoods,bulk heads,and of the neighborhood with connections to local sidewalks masonry piers.These standards should support creating and trails,"360-degree"architecture that is attractive from pedestrian-oriented developments that provide side- all sides,and buildings and parking located in a manner walk and trail connections to neighboring subdivisions. that minimizes impacts to adjacent homes.While still The design standards should be easy to understand and auto-oriented,neighborhood commercial development provide direction on how to enhance Elk River's image and should also be easily accessed by pedestrians and have a identity. smaller scale as compared to commercial development along the Highway 169 or Highway 10 corridors. Update Land Development Regulations The character of neighborhood commercial development should be very different than highway business uses.The desired type of development in neighborhood commer- cial areas fits neatly within the City's C-1 Central Business District zoning category in that it should be contextual - to the character of surrounding developments.However, neighborhood commercial should not be limited to only s —the historic central business district,core area of the City. 0 � Rather,neighborhood commercial should be permitted in NZERI'm ■■M all areas of the City.Since the C-1 Central Business District i IS SEMI is potentially redundant with the DD Downtown District, the City should consider repositioning the C-1 Central Business District to include language about integrating commercial into residential neighborhoods.Another approach to accommodate neighborhood commercial uses Example:Neighborhood commercial context sensitive Dunkin Donuts is to create a new zoning district that applies exclusively to this type of development. 6o Economic Development Plan•Elk River Comprehensive Plan DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY Highway 169 Commercial Update Development Standards The City should continue to leverage the Highway 169 area for Highway 169 CorridorCommercial Reinvestment which draws patrons from within and beyond Elk River and Currently,much of the development that occurs in Elk plays an important role in supporting the City's tax base. River is approved through a Planned Unit Development The Highway 169 commercial corridor is surrounded by established neighborhoods and has limited opportunities or other quasi-judicial process that requires multiple meetings and adds time and cost to development.To for expansion;therefore,this area should be prioritized for streamline development approval and spur reinvestment strategic reinvestment to reposition underutilized portions and new development,the City should consider updating of the corridor and better situate them for destination/life- the development standards for commercial development style experiential shopping. along Highway 169.By enhancing development standards, the City can allow for more uses and development to occur r as of right,knowing that improvements and amenities that were once only achieved through conditions placed on approvals are now requirements. Updates could include,but should not be limited to requiring: Monument signs and wall signs with individually affixed elm letters, � r 1 11 � 1 !�� --— • Public gathering spaces, • Screening of service areas such as loading bays and trash/recycling receptacles, • High quality building materials, W • Facade articulation, • Pedestrian circulation/sidewalks that connect to all build- - - ings on the site and adjacent sites, _ J��J ofticJ Minimum storefront transparency to allow visibility into stores, • On site stormwater management. Highway169 Commercial Elk River Comprehensive Plan Economic Development Plan 61 DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY A r Yfy s i 4 M y _ F Establish Design Guidelines for Accommodate Evolving Transportation and "Experience Based Development" Shopping Trends Experience-based development incorporates a mix of To further enhance the Highway 169 corridor,the City commercial,service,restaurant,and entertainment uses, should require the development of safe and accessible and"third spaces'as discussed in City-wide Economic pedestrian networks within sites as well as shared parking Development Policies section of this framework.This type to promote walking over driving between shops.Further, of development also includes improvements like internal the City should consider standards that require the specific roadway streetscape,sidewalks,on-street parking,and designation of ride-sharing service drop-off and pick-up other elements that enhance the pedestrian environment. areas and curbside pick-up spots within sites to avoid To make it easy for new development to provide high conflict between the pedestrian and vehicular circulation quality design that meets the desires of the community,the routes. City should establish design guidelines for the commercial In addition,the City should also consider the Northstar areas targeted for"Experience-based Development"along Station as an opportunity to leverage future shopping the Highway 169 corridor.The guidelines would not only trends.Development(especially experience based)in this provide fair certainty to residents,existing businesses,and area has the potential to attract reverse commuters to potential investors,they would also help to further expedite shop,dine,and explore Elk River. development approval processes by minimizing the need for multiple meetings to refine a proposal.Design guide- lines should be clear,concise,and easy to interpret for _ developers and architects and specify the type of desired development in this area One essential component of experience-based develop- ment is the prioritization of pedestrians and public spaces over vehicles.Although patrons will likely drive to these - developments,they will be encouraged to"park once and walk"similar to the Shoppes at Arbor Lakes in Maple Grove. - - r Example:Designated Rideshare Drop-off S Pick-up (UberTransportation Inc.) 62 Economic Development Plan•Elk River Comprehensive Plan DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY l�Al ■■■■ - - - r-r® � ■� ' ■■■■ I■m I■■■■ �■ ■■N �c® ■ EEM NONE Ow ■■ ■■■■ i■■■■ ■■■ ■® ■■I Encourage Adaptive Reuse Highway 10 Commercial Allowing for adaptive re-use of older or obsolete commer- Highway 10 commercial areas primarily consist of a mix cial buildings is an effective strategy for revitalization of auto-oriented retail and service businesses clustered in and reactivation.This could include buildings such as the nodes located in the far west and southeast portions of the Marcus Elk River Cinema or the inline shops along Dodge City.Highway 10 commercial should provide supporting Avenue which have experienced a decline in part due to food and service options for residents and employees in the nation-wide shift to e-commerce that has caused a the surrounding vicinity and help to alleviate the need decrease in in-person shopping.Creative approaches for to travel outside of these areas for essentials.However, adaptive re-use should be considered,such as allowing for unlike neighborhood commercial areas,these areas could anchor spaces to be converted to multifamily uses,estab- accommodate larger scale commercial development lishing lifestyle centers with office and entertainment uses, such as grocery stores.Commercial development in these and permitting the development of food halls,coworking areas should provide high quality design that improves spaces makerspaces,art studios,live-work spaces,and the appearance of the corridor.In addition,Highway 10 incubator spaces. commercial uses that are located adjacent to industrial uses should utilize setbacks and buffering to mitigate nuisances such as noise from impacting outdoor dining or other such amenities. ti �I Example:Before adaptive reuse.TVocantpropertywith boarded up Example:After adaptive reuse.Windows,signage,landscaping,and windows improved stairs make the space more attractive and inviting Elk River Comprehensive Plan•Economic Development Plan 63 DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY s _ r ,_1 7 - .CC Downtown Mixed Use The Downtown should be enhanced with a compact mix of uses that create an active and vibrant district.Redevelop- ment and infill development of parking lots and undevel- oped sites should be a priority on Main Street in the Down- slue Egg sakery town followed by strategic expansion of the district.The City should encourage higher density uses with a primary A o r•o s CAF E focus on mixed use which includes buildings that provide ground level/first floor commercial uses and residential or office uses above.Mixed use creates opportunities for both new housing and businesses and can be scaled to transi- tion between the intense commercial uses in the core to the mixed residential uses at the periphery of Downtown. Mixed use should be applied in the Downtown core where appropriate. \ Promote Reinvestment -- - Today the Downtown primarily consists of a mix of older, one-to two-story commercial structures some of which were constructed as far back as the 1900s.To help estab- lished businesses and property owners in the Downtown maintain and improve their properties,the City should work with the Economic Development Authority(EDA) to expand the Downtown Revitalization Financing Loan program.Currently,the program offers Downtown busi- nesses and property owners loans of up to$74,999 for secondary financing.The City and EDA should consider Example:Olderbuildings in the Downtown that maybenefit from reinvestment expanding this loan program to provide primary financing of smaller scale facade improvement projects. 64 Economic Development Plan•Elk River Comprehensive Plan DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY E t i •�% 1 D D Y-0' S C A F Y' T V •. l I p, p Y Expand Downtown Develop a Downtown Master Plan The Downtown is sandwiched between the Mississippi Downtown Elk River is a beloved community asset that the River to the south and Highway 10 to the north,meaning City's stakeholders take pride in and are highly invested future growth will need to utilize strategic infill and in its growth and evolution.As a nearly built out district redevelopment and expand primarily east-west.In the with limited room for expansion,each opportunity for beginning phases of Downtown expansion,the City should new development and redevelopment has the potential to encourage the conversion of residential properties to influence the historic character of the area.Community commercial uses.(See the Downtown Waterfront graphic dialogue around recent development proposals under- on the following page for examples of these expansion score the need for a unified vision for the Downtown.While opportunity sites.)As the expanded Downtown becomes this Comprehensive Plan addresses economic develop- established and ripe for further investment,the City should ment in the Downtown,it does so at a high level. promote site assembly and comprehensive redevelopment of underutilized properties to more intense commercial The City should develop a Downtown Master Plan that and mixed-use developments.To support Downtown provides the clear policy direction needed to encourage expansion,the City should consider establishing a fee-in- and accommodate appropriate change and improvement lieu of parking fund or other funding mechanism in order while preserving the essential aspects of what makes to construct structured parking that would not only replace Downtown Elk River the heart of the community.A Down- surface parking lost to development but also provide addi- town Master Plan should provide the detailed analysis and tional spaces to support programming and events in the site-specific recommendations needed to promote Down- district. town expansion.Through a robust and Downtown specific public outreach process the Master Plan should: • Address design approaches to expanding pedestrian activity areas,access to the waterfront,pedestrian access over Highway 10,and connections to surrounding neigh- borhoods. • Include site-specific recommendations that address development capacity and the unique design consider- ation inherent to Downtown development. • Evaluate operations of the existing downtown street network and assess opportunities to"optimize"the network for operations improvements. • Assess the feasibility of one-way operations and eval- uate impacts of potential conversion from two-way to one-way operations. • Qualitatively evaluate pedestrian/multi-modal needs and opportunities in the downtown environment as part of the context for traffic operations goals. Elk River Comprehensive Plan Economic Development Plan 65 DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY Expand Rivers Edge Commons Park Rivers Edge Commons Park is an important asset in the Downtown.The City should leverage this resource and expand the Park to the parking lot to the west and incor- porate plans for the community driven"Port of Elk River" project for the installation of an ADA accessible seasonal '"_ docking system.The City should also consider including -_ additional amenities such as public restrooms or changing —_ rooms as part of this expansion. — Expansion of Rivers Edge Commons Park should also provide waterfront trail connections to the Mississippi River Trail network and the City's other waterfront parks including Babcock Memorial Park and Bailey Point Nature Preserve. Rivers Edge Commons Park *_ DOWNTOWN WATERFRONT us.►,r-.w _ Infill Opportunity Sites — Expansion Opportunity •-�-N. 1 l Sites - Jr Connections to , f Nearby Parks , and Open Space c r 66 Economic Development Plan Elk River Comprehensive Plan DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY Mno IN �. b. T F OZA ; Activate Public Rights-of-Way In 2021,Rivers Edge Commons Park and the parking lot behind Elk River Meats provide the majority of outdoor event space in the Downtown.If the Elk River Meats flo- parking lot were to be developed in the future,events 0 r like the City's Farmers Market could be greatly impacted. _ To create more space for future events,the City should evaluate strategies for activating public rights-of-way such as Jackson Ave between Highway 10 and Main Street as a . " part of the recommended development of a Downtown .� w Master Plan. Strategies that could be explored as a part of ` \ „r t the Downtown Master Plan planning process could include = k o converting that section of roadway to a shared road using �� removable bollards or transforming on-street parking spaces to parklets or outdoor dining areas. By activating public rights-of-way,Downtown events like the Riverfront Concert Series that attract residents and , visitors to the Downtown and promote spending at nearby restaurants,bars,and shops,can be expanded.Expanding I Downtown events to offer more diverse programming will \ .► � - . boost foot traffic on weeknights and weekends and would t solidify the district as a regional destination.The City should consider placing a focus on multicultural events that celebrate the different communities that call the City ' IT home,such as a Lunar New Year or Holi celebration.In ; addition,Elk River should take inspiration for events from vr a other waterfront communities that have leveraged their � connection to the water to create programs like"Dog Days at Drexel",hosted by the City of Oak Creek.Dog Days at Drexel is a canine friendly event which features dock diving competitions for dogs and dog-related vendors. F 2019 Elk River Fest Elk River Comprehensive Plan•Economic Development Plan 67 DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY Prioritize Wayfinding In 2020,the City completed the final phase of the adopted ^lr, Wayfinding MasterPlan.The Plan ensures consistency and I continuity for all City signage throughout Elk River and enhances the overall brand of the community.Wayfinding also helps to market City amenities and promote economic r�-- development.As the next step in the City's wayfinding ` y campaign,Elk River should consider establishing Down- 1 town gateway signage at Jackson Ave and Railroad Drive and Main Street and Parrish Avenue. k; l ! Engage Students in the Design of Banners In addition to gateway signage,the City should consider developing standard streetlight banners that can be displayed year round in the Downtown as well as seasonal and temporary streetlight banners to provide variety and interest.The City should work with the school district to .. engage students in an art competition to design streetlight i banners that represent what the community means to them.The City can ensure student designs complement the overall branding strategy for the Downtown by setting a theme for colors and design elements that should be utilized.Utilizing student art in these banners would set the community apart and highlight one of its greatest assets,its schools. '$_ •,.` k u 7 L Student Designed Banner,Fairfield CT 68 Economic Development Plan Elk River Comprehensive Plan DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY ELK RIPER FLORAL �'` Uptown Mixed Use Improve the Pedestrian Realm Uptown Elk River includes the mixed use area north of Currently,Uptown is an area in transition.Recent improve- Highway 10 and primarily along Third Street.This area ments to the public right-of-way including the installation is currently comprised of one-to two-story commercial of a round-about and mid-crossing pedestrian islands buildings with retail,service,and office uses as well as have improved safety for Uptown pedestrians.However,a multifamily developments and under utilized off-street lack of street trees,benches,and pedestrian scaled lighting parking lots.Redevelopment and infill development of keeps the district feeling as if it prioritizes vehicles.To parking lots and undeveloped sites should be a priority remedy this,the City should consider pursuing an Uptown along Third Street in Uptown.The City should encourage Streetscape Plan. higher density uses with a primary focus on mixed use To further enhance the pedestrian realm,the City should which includes buildings that provide ground level/first require that new development or redevelopment include floor commercial uses and residential or office uses above. a greater amount of transparency at ground level through Mixed use creates opportunities for both new housing and storefront windows,horizontal and vertical facade artic- businesses and should be smaller in scale as compared ulation,parking lot screening,and outdoor dining and to mixed use development in the Downtown to transition gathering space. between the intense commercial uses in the core to the mixed residential uses at the periphery of Uptown. Enhance Facades Today,the City and EDA offer the Downtown Revitalization Financing Loan program which offers Downtown busi- nesses and property owners loans of up to$74,999 for secondary financing.The City and EDA should consider expanding this loan program to also apply to properties within Uptown. Connect to Downtown Although Uptown should be further enhanced as a distinct district from Downtown Elk River,visual and physical connections between the two areas is essential to ensuring the vibrancy of both.Visual connectivity should be enhanced through wayfinding and gateway signage while physical connectivity should be explored through the Highway 10 Study and seek to improve pedestrian infra- structure and safety at the intersections of Highway 10 and Jackson Avenue as well as Highway 10 and Main Street. Elk River Comprehensive Plan Economic Development Plan 69 DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY ilk r 4 r T S Yom' •� � � � � � � �� ' Amy J{ Ji I t 7� Industrial Preserve Areas for Large Lot Industrial Elk River is home to a number of established industrial The City should rezone parcels identified for large lot areas which are concentrated along the City's major corri- industrial that are within the Urban Service Area to the dors including Highway 169 and Highway 10.These existing I-3 General Industrial Zoning District and rezone parcels areas are experiencing low vacancy and demand for addi- outside the Urban Service Area to I-2 Medium Industrial. tional industrial development and employment generating In addition,the City should update the I-2 Medium Indus- uses is high.This demand is especially high for large lot trial District and I-3 General Industrial District standards to industrial sites that would support a range of light to heavy require larger lots for development.Currently the prin- industrial activity.To accommodate this demand,the cipal structure dimensional regulations for all industrial Economic Development Plan highlights large lot industrial zoning categories(including I-1 Light Industrial)have the opportunity sites that should be preserved.These sites are same minimum lot area requirements of 1 acre,minimum located in areas of the City that provide adequate space and lot width requirements of 100 feet,and a maximum lot access for all forms of industrial operation,manufacturing, coverage of 40%.To preserve areas identified for large storage,and production.Large lot industrial uses should be lot industrial,the City should consider requiring a larger separated by lower intensity uses such as commercial or minimum lot area and lot width for the I-2 and I-3 districts business park uses and wherever possible avoid locating to deter smaller industrial development on these sites and directly adjacent residential uses.When adjacency to make other I-1 zoned areas of the City more attractive for residential neighborhoods is unavoidable,the City should this scale of development. continue requiring the types of screening and buffering currently utilized on sites like the Faribault Foods facility Facilitate the Transition of Properties and further discussed in the Continue to Appropriately Identified for Large Lot Industrial Buffer and Screen section. Due to the limited opportunities and high demand for large lot industrial sites in Elk River,it is essential that the Two major opportunity sites for large lot industrial devel- City be involved in the transition of these properties from opment exist in Elk River including, their current use to what is envisioned in the Economic • The northern portion of the Gravel Mining Area,which Development Plan.In addition to proactive rezoning,to has direct access to Highway 169 and is due to transition help facilitate the transition of these properties from from mining operation in the next 10 years. their current use to industrial development in the future, the City should maintain routine communication with • Lots surrounding the former GRE site in the southeast the private land owners of properties identified for large portion of the City with access to the BNSF railroad. lot industrial development.In addition,the City should It is important to note that the Highway 10 Study will establish public-private partnerships with developers ultimately determine the appropriate amount of industrial who are interested in site acquisition for large lot indus- activity that these sites will be able to support and there- trial development.The public-private partnership could fore,the City must have active involvement in the develop- follow a Develop Operate and Transfer(DOT)model where ment of the Study to ensure the final roadway alignments developers undertake the financing and construction of provide adequate access to support large lot industrial supporting infrastructure(i.e.roadways,sidewalks,storm- development needs. water infrastructure)for the right to develop the adjoining property.The City should serve as the go between to facilitate the transfer of these lands and guide developers through the review and approval process. 70 Economic Development Plan•Elk River Comprehensive Plan DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY i 1711* t low— SPIRElow X11 - -rte -�� -.4�� r•a�� +� _ �r .-.. Highway 101169 Commercial Enhance Development Standards The Highway 10/169 Commercial area includes the 930 Currently,much of the Highway 10/169 Commercial acres of land centered around 171st Avenue and the area includes outdoor storage and outdoor displays of Northstar Commuter Rail Station.In 2010,the City envi- merchandise that detract from the appearance of the sioned this area as a transit-oriented district with a mix of corridor.Although these uses are desirable in the area, housing,retail,office,and industrial space.Since the adop- they should not be as visually obtrusive moving forward. tion of the plan and the associated zoning amendments, To improve the look and appeal of this area over time, the area has developed with primarily industrial and heavy the City should strengthen the standards applicable to commercial uses with a focus on auto-dealerships,distri- development.Use specific standards for outdoor storage bution,and trucking.Due to the shift in development prior- should be established that require the use to be located on ities,the City should leverage the existing auto-dealerships hard paved surfaces and be screened from rights-of-way to attract additional dealerships and complementary uses by fences,walls,and/or landscape.Similarly,use specific to create a cluster in this area. standards for outdoor displays of merchandise should be established that focus on interior parking lot and display areas,landscape that softens large expanses of paved Rezone Parcels in the FAST District areas,and improves on-site stormwater management. To facilitate the shift from transit-oriented district to auto- dealer cluster,the City should consider streamlining the In addition,sites surrounding the Northstar Station have FAST District zoning designations by rezoning parcels to fit the opportunity to attract reverse commuters along the with the realigned vision for the area.The rezoning should line for destination and experience based shopping, be informed by the Economic Development Plan which dining,and entertainment.Development standards for leverages existing uses to create opportunities for more this area should support attractive architecture acces- contextual auto-oriented commercial.To better under- sible pedestrian connection,and provide public gathering stand where existing zoning district classifications are spaces that create third places. deficient in achieving the desired development outcome in this area,a zoning alignment analysis is included in the Implementation Chapter of this Plan. It is recommended that the City proactively rezone the parcels identified in the zoning alignment analysis. Elk River Comprehensive Plan•Economic Development Plan 71 DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY RI+ i d �O STS Northstar Commercial XCR Commercial Parcels directly adjacent the Northstar Station should The XCR commercial area,including the ERX facility,is a provide supporting restaurant,retail,and service uses such major attraction for outdoor motorsports in the region, as coffee or sandwich shops.This neighborhood node type drawing crowds of upwards of 1,000 visitors to the City commercial should serve those commuters waiting for the for weekly events.Leveraging this established facility and train as well as those working and living in the surrounding other sports facilities is key to continued economic growth neighborhoods. in sports tourism.Commercial uses on the west side of Highway 169 should support the ERX facilities and provide YACCommercial food and beverage options.While commercial uses on the east side of Highway 169 should include the opportunity The Youth Athletic Complex(YAC)commercial area for the expansion of the ERX off-road racing facility as well accommodates much desired commercial options in the as complementary hospitality,hotel,or other accommoda- southeast corner of the City.This area is designated for tions that provide visitors to the ERX facilities with options highway commercial use and should provide dining and to stay in the City while they attend events. retail options that support activity at the YAC and provide visitors to this facility a nearby place to grab food or drinks Conduct a Hotel Needs Study between tournaments or games. Elk River lacks options for hotel accommodations in the City that would support the events that attract thousands to the ERX facility off of Highway 169.To support the ERX facility and capture tourist spending within Elk River,the City should conduct a Hotel Needs Study to determine the viability of hotel development in the City.A Hotel Needs Study should analyze the current hotel and accommoda- tion market,forecast capacity for new hotel rooms based on forecasted tourism growth,determine the projected I■ demand for level of unit supply by quality such as Luxury, Middle Class,or Economy,and identify prime locations to develop visitor accommodations in the City.If the Hotel Needs Study finds the City can support additional accom- modations,the study should be utilized as a marketing tool Example:Station area commercial (Oak Lawn,IL) to advertise and invite hoteliers to the City. 72 Economic Development Plan•Elk River Comprehensive Plan DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY r ger r c oage GRE Plant Reuse Support Artisan Manufacturing If decommissioned,the GRE Power Plant site,located To make room for artisan manufacturing,live-work spaces on the Mississippi riverfront between Highway 10 and many municipalities such as Nashville,TN,and Indianap- Highway 169,provides a unique opportunity for business olis,IN have developed innovative zoning code amend- park development.The site is currently divided by the ments that create clear categories for arts and culture-re- BNSF railroad,creating two plots,one east and one west of lated uses(such as small batch production of textiles)and the rail line.The eastern portion of the site is anticipated to removed barriers and special permit requirements for continue operation with the installation of a combustion artisan and micro-businesses.To support artisan manu- turbine by 2022 while the western portion of the site hosts facturing in Elk River the City should assess and update the the majority of the business operations for the facility.If I-1 Light Industrial Zoning District to permit artisan manu- GRE were to relinquish ownership of the western portion facturing that allows live-work spaces as of right. of the site,the City should encourage business park uses as it has vehicular access off Highway 10,would provide desir- Establish an Incubator Space able waterfront views to tenants,and would be compatible The City should work with regional partners such as the with the heavy industrial uses to the east and residential University of Minnesota,Cargill,Great River Energy, uses to the north.New development in this area should Sportech Inc,and Medtronic to establish an incubator in also provide pedestrian access to Babcock Memorial Park Elk River to support researchers who want to bring new and the waterfront. technology to market.The City should model the incubator space off of the University of Minnesota Venture Center Business Park and provide a robust system of support,partnerships,and programming to allow startups to establish themselves The City has the opportunity to become a hub for business in the City when they have graduated from the incubator and commerce in the region as it is already well positioned stage. at the confluence of multiple major highway routes and Minneapolis regional rail.To support and make the City more attractive to employers and sectors with higher wage jobs,the City should encourage business park uses at stra- tegic locations along Highway 169 and Highway 10 that can leverage views of the Mississippi River and natural ameni- ties like the extensive tree canopy and wetland habitats found throughout the City.Further,business park devel- opment should utilize low impact design and conservation design to preserve these natural amenities and create attractive campuses that showcase Elk Rivers natural assets.Business park developments should be utilized as a transitional use between higher intensity industrial and other lower intensity uses such as residential neighbor- hoods in the City. Elk River Comprehensive Plan•Economic Development Plan 73 DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY `r V, &Mir . � u Eu 1 1 A, �4 kL G`J no The growth and development of Elk River reflects the evolving - -- ------------- transportation landscape in Minnesota and the larger Twin Cities metropolitan region.Railroads and major highways are long-standing key features of its network,with the Burlington Northern Santa Fe(BNSF)railroad and US Highway 10(east- west)and US Highway 169(north-south)as defining corridors for the City.Mobility demands are continuing to change,and as such,Elk River has seen increased emphasis in transit,bicy- cling,and walking. The intersection of US Highways 10 and 169 is noteworthy as a \ significant gateway feature for Elk River.Situated on the City's south side,the intersection serves as the entry point for motor- i1pr ists coming to the community from other parts of the region, with the downtown core of Minneapolis located approximately 30 miles southeast.These US Highways offer good connectivity �"°°;s to regional economic hubs including Minneapolis,Saint Paul, .6 3 and Saint Cloud.Maintaining good connectivity and access to '� • °Za the region and across the City through an efficient and robust transportation network is key to the future growth of Elk River. The Transportation&Mobility Plan is intended to help guide the development of roadways and multimodal networks to promote rr accessibility and safety in line with the vision for future land use and development in the community. Elk River Comprehensive Plan•Transportation&Mobility Plan 75 DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY Goal 1 : Enable continuity,access,and efficient mobility on road- ways for automobiles and trucks. Policies: • Enhance east-west connections in conjunction with the 169 Rede- fine Project • Develop north-south connectivity to relieve congestion and create better access. • Make improvements to provide roadway network continuity and protect residential areas as new development occurs. • Coordinate with City of Elk River stakeholders and adjacent munic- ipalities on roadway projects to prepare for and support future growth. Goal 2: Support a safe and connected multimodal transportation network. Policies: • Implement complete streets. • Enhance pedestrian and cyclist connections to key destinations. • Support a network of multimodal options through coordination with transit providers. • Continue coordination efforts to ensure bike and pedestrian mobility improvements to the Elk River Trails MasterPlan. Roadway Access & Mobility Functional Classification Minor Arterial: Existing minor arterial routes within the City include County State Aid Highway(CSAR)2,CSAR 12, Elk River has a well-established local roadway network.All CSAR 13,and Jackson Avenue. Generally,minor arterial streets are classified according to the functionality they are routes are state or county facilities(with a few select city intended to provide.The classification process recognizes a roadways)that connect key activity centers and nodes hierarchy among the roadways must exist for the network and have continuity on a county level. They generally to operate as a system.The functional classification system serve medium to long trips and they typically have higher for roadways is also used by agencies and planning officials posted speeds and more restrictive access than collector to manage access,setbacks,and other design-related or local streets. Minor arterials generally connect to features of a roadway,making the transportation network principal arterials,other minor arterials,and collectors. integral to a community's land use decisions. The Ranch Road/CSAR 33 corridor will combine to form Elk River features four roadway types:principal arterials, a key east-west route as additional development occurs minor arterials,collectors,and local streets.In general in the northern portion of Elk River.This route should terms,arterials are intended to provide mobility for longer be evaluated for improvements to be upgraded from a trips with higher posted speeds and less land access while Collector to a Minor Arterial in conjunction with roadway collectors and local streets are for low-speed,short trips realignments for CSAR 33. with emphasis on access to land.The following further • Collector. Collector roadways(e.g.,CSAH 33 and School describes the functional classifications of roadways in Elk Street)provide links to local activity centers and connec- River. tions between arterial routes and local city streets. These roadways are intended to bring traffic from various Principal Arterial: There are three principal arterial nodes and funnel it to the arterial network. Collector routes within the City of Elk River,TH 101,US Highway streets have continuity at a local level and generally serve 10 and US Highway 169. In general,principal arterials medium to short trips. They serve a variety of land uses provide the greatest connectivity(link counties and/or and can therefore have a variety of speeds. In general,an states),have significant continuity at a state or regional equal emphasis is placed on mobility and access. 193rd level,serve longer trips(through traffic),and generally Street should be considered a priority for reclassification have higher posted speeds and less access. They typi- from local to collector.A short segment of Joplin Street cally only connect with other principal and minor arterial also warrants conversion,as the corridor is considered routes and some select collectors. In some instances, for transfer to the County.This route should also be principal arterials are freeways(interchange access only, considered for conversion from as will be provided by the Highway 169 Redefine project) while in other locations they have at-grade intersections. • Local Street: The remaining roadways are considered local streets(e.g.,Zane Street and 8th Street). Local streets provide connections to neighborhoods,develop- ments and to other streets. F y, y' a Elk River Comprehensive Plan Transportation&Mobility Plan 77 DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY 3 2 32 J W 21ST-AVDNW 2.1ST-AVE•NW 169 121 3 z RD N �� O g z 0 209TH.-A VE:NW 1 0 33 z n 33 32 z � T R 9Di I � �e3VEyti 35 �� 792NDAVE•NW 44 ,7 SCHOOL.ST.NW � HWIAY/11LO1NW J C WS NLG; , � ''-,,,,, �169 a 10 Lys 13 ti MISSISSIPPI RD.NW 18�ESiTiAVON 12 q W � F G. r 101 175THAVENW .— Functional Classification � Primary = Collector to Minor Arterial � Minor Arterial Collector to Local — Collector m Local to Collector — Local m New Collector 165rHAVE•N1N 10 GJ, y� •9L 78 Transportation&Mobility Plan Elk River Comprehensive Plan Roadway Patterns Elk River's core neighborhoods,which includes Downtown Legma and areas immediately to the west and northeast,follow a •� ,� ,•••L nks 11 traditional grid pattern.The rectangular blocks are typi- 96. j Nodes-9 cally oriented east-west and north-south and are similarly \ I `�•:;, connectivity Index=11/9=1.22 sized,although Highway 10 and the BNSF railroad corri- dors impact their layout.This configuration allows for easy navigation and orientation.It also fosters more opportu- nities for motorists to make direct connections to other roads within the network.A drawback of the grid system is the elevated amount of traffic control devices(e.g.,stop I signs,traffic signals,etc.)typically required to manage *••a•• '�, ;� - � head-to-head motorist flow. •.� /� Much of the community's remaining street network follows •' a suburban-style pattern.Elk River features a compara- tively high percentage of curvilinear streets and cul-de- /; / �....•i sacs,especially in residential subdivisions.This situation %••• drastically impacts a community's connectivity.Discon- z �•" nected neighborhoods lead to increases in total vehicle i miles traveled to reach destination points.This is especially I �� evident in areas surrounding Trott Brook Park or near Elk ' River Golf Club.Congestion concerns rise near these devel- opments as they typically funnel motorists onto a single collector street with multiple conflicting intersections or Connectivity Index access points. A connectivity index measures the ratio of the number of blocks to the number of intersections in the street network. Connectivity Index Typical minimum standards for connectivity indexes fall into the range of 1.2 to 1.4. To improve traffic management and community connec- tivity moving forward,the City should consider estab- lishing a connectivity index minimum requirement for all new residential subdivisions.A connectivity index measures the ratio of the number of blocks to the number of intersections in the street network.A higher connec- tivity index reflects a greater number of blocks entering each intersection,and thus a higher level of connectivity for the network.Typical minimum standards for connec- tivity indexes fall into the range of 1.2 to 1.4. Elk River Comprehensive Plan•Transportation&Mobility Plan 79 DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY Coordinate with PartnerAgencies 1 Jurisdiction is an important factor in determining the extent to which Elk River can manage roadway mainte- 32 nance and overall function.While US Highways 10 and 169 69 are under MnDOT control,Sherburne County has jurisdic- ,z, tion over County State Aid Highways(CSAR 1,12,13,and 33) and County Roads(CSAR 30,32,33,34,35,40,44,79,and 121).Most other roadways are under the City's authority. Avery small percentage of the community's streets are – privately maintained by neighborhood associations. 33 It will be essential for the City to continue coordinating 32 —s future public infrastructure investments with MnDOT and Sherburne County officials.State and county roads form backbonethe mobility the eagen ies evolve their systems,the C ty will need to 3s as ll ' g �C ,,., ao synchronize its road improvement projects such that the ` 169 changes are in alignment and supportive of each agency's 10 13 objectives. 12 The Elk River municipal boundary abuts several communi- ties including Nowthen,Ramsey,and Otsego.The City also 101 shares its eastern border with Sherburne County,which is adjacent to Anoka County.These entities'respective Roadway Jurisdiction capital improvements can dramatically impact develop- ment patterns within Elk River and vice versa.Maintaining iglw✓ay 10 open lines of communication with these jurisdictions _ County State Aid Highway will ensure future public investments benefit everyone. _ County Road Ongoing planning efforts for the Highway 10 corridor _ Local Road represent the most important transportation coordination priority for Elk River.Partnership with MnDOT,Sherburne and Ankoa Counties,and the City of Ramsey will be critical for achieving a shared vision of the corridor. 80 Transportation&Mobility Plan Elk River Comprehensive Plan Consider Strategic Realignment Of City and CountRoa gJ dways, Including jurisdictional Previous studies have highlighted a need for the City sz to pursue jurisdictional transfers of key streets within 69 the community.The Driving Forward:Sherburne County Transportation Plan identified several County-owned road- ways which would be better served under the authority of / local municipalities.In the case of Elk River,some of the potential transfers are related to"swaps of roadways'.In ' 33 a roadway swap the City takes over a current County road and in so doing,transfers jurisdiction of a related road to sz the County.Such swaps are intended to better align the road purposes(such as connectivity to other major roads I like Highway 10)and transfer maintenance responsibil- ities to the appropriate jurisdiction.An example of this would be the transfer of Joplin Road to the County(thereby / connecting CSAH 30 to US Highway 10),and in exchange, �� 169 transferring the segment of CSAH 30 east of Joplin back13 to the City.The latter stretch of CSAH 30 serves primarily = 1�'=..�� 12 local functions and has no connection to other major roads,which is more appropriate to be under the City's 101 jurisdiction rather than the County. Jurisdiction Turn-Back 1 Develop a New City Transportation Plan — 10 County to City of Elk River The last citywide transportation plan was developed in 2004.Given the significant changes planned for Elk River, a new transportation plan document should be prepared to provide a comprehensive,transportation-focused strategy for managing growth and changes in transportation. Elk River Comprehensive Plan-Transportation&Mobility Plan 81 3 x n t s Leverage the The redesign of Highway 169 through Elk River(at the time 169 Redefine" Project of the drafting of the Comprehensive Plan)addresses many of the concerns by eliminating all at-grade crossings.The The"169 Redefine"project is a partnership between the new highway includes new interchanges at Main Street, City,Sherburne County,and MnDOT to redesign and School Street/Elk Hills Drive,193rd Avenue,and 197th reconstruct three miles of the roadway between Highway Avenue which will improve traffic flow and increase user 10 and 197th Avenue in Elk River.The project is intended to accessibility and safety.Other key design elements include resolve problematic conditions that currently exist in the single-point signalized intersections with pedestrian project area.Ultimately,the project transforms Highway walkways to improve overall safety.The City must continue 169 through Elk River,providing access with highway inter- to work alongside the County and MnDOT to ensure changes,replacing bridges,enhancing pedestrian acces- the project does not divide the east and west side of the sibility across Highway 169,and upgrading underground community but rather stiches it together to create a safer infrastructure such as storm sewer systems. and better connected City. Final design plans are currently under development by MnDOT and construction is expected to occur during the m DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION 2022-2024 timeframe.With this improvement and the current interchange in place at CSAR 33,Highway 169 will operate like a freeway through the developed portion of Elk Hwy 169 Elk River Future Freeway River. Elk River The community has a unique opportunity to improve its 16 9 transportation network by leveraging the 169 Redefine project to address key mobility and safety concerns along Q� this corridor.Driving Forward:The Sherburne County Transportation Plan,completed in November 2019,noted several concerns related to intersections in Elk River. These concerns primarily revolve around congestion and About project driver . - driver safety in the corridors immediately adjacent to the Highway 169 corridor. ^•• 169 Redefine:Elk River 2022-2024 P - xERe�a�r Reconstruct Hwy 169 into a new freeway system from Hwy 10 to 197th Ave.,includes: • All road connections Elk River • Four new interchanges • All pedestrian connections • Underground utilities,road drainage s. • Improve access at Hwy 10/169/101 MNDOT 169 Redefine Presentation 82 Transportation&Mobility Plan•Elk River Comprehensive Plan DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY Develo East-West and Northlouth Connections Through the Community 32 The community's roadway network is currently 169 constrained by a lack of connectivity.While the City land ,z, mass is oriented in a north-south manner,most of the J development within Elk River is oriented east-west and �\ divided by high volume roadways(Highway 169 and Highway 10).To make matters more challenging,the ' I \� t 33 s growth of Elk River's transportation network occurred in 33 a generally piecemeal fashion,concurrent with devel- opment.This resulted in a built environment that offers limited options for continuous local routes across the City, I frustrating drivers and extending commuter times. 44 40 CSAH 33 Corridor71 �— The 169 Redefine project will provide some relief by elimi- nating at-grade crossings within Elk River.Another option �� .. 3 � to enhance east-west ties include realigning segments ,-. 'Z'.of current CSAR 33.With potential realignments of that roadway occurring on either side of Highway 169,the CSAR 101` J \" F 33 corridor has the potential to become a high-demand \� east-west route across northern Elk River.With future Roadway Realignment growth in Elk River,the CSAR 33 corridor is likely to be reclassified from a collector street to a minor arterial route. PC)eri ial Roadway Realignment Opportunities 10 Twin Lakes Road Similarly,other areas of growth in Elk River,such as the eastern side of the City,will create opportunities for estab- lishing clear north-south travel corridors.The 2019 study of Twin Lakes Road(CSAR 33,a minor arterial route)by Sherburne County sheds light on the methods necessary School Street Corridor to preserve that asset.The Twin Lakes Road(CSAR 13) Construction of the interchange at School Street and corridor has several improvements identified for it,along Highway 169 makes this node a natural consideration for with the realignment of a portion near Highway 10 that addressing east-west connections in Elk River.Given the would be supportive of a better-spaced network for access prominence of School Street west of Highway 169,a new and future creation of a highway interchange. evaluation of opportunities to extend the corridor to the east(to Twin Lakes Road)should be considered. Filmore to Jarvis Connection As part of relieving pressure on Twin Lakes Road,oppor- Planned Street Improvements tunities to further enhance north-south travel should Local street corridor improvements should also be made be considered such as the potential connection between as growth occurs.For instance,a new connection between Filmore Street and Jarvis Street.While those are currently Twin Lakes Road and County Road 40(Cleveland Road) municipal streets,such a connection would likely require is planned.Similarly,a new 5th Street connection from coordination with Sherburne County for conversion to a Dodge Street to Twin Lakes Road is planned.This will county road. improve local travel patterns by creating a cul-de-sac on Line Avenue and preventing"cut through"trips that attempt to short cut through residential areas. Elk River Comprehensive Plan•Transportation&Mobility Plan 83 DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY 1` Riv " - _ �IIr2 - 1 How will Highway 10 be"Redefined"? Coordinate with the City of Ramsey As the southeast Elk River area continues to develop with a Planning studies have been completed and are ongoing mix of uses including highway business,business park,and east of Elk River in Anoka County.The City of Ramsey has industrial,greater demands will be placed on the Highway conducted significant planning studies for Highway 10, 10 corridor for access and service to development. The with involvement from MnDOT,Anoka County,and partic- segment of the roadway in Elk River that is east of Highway ipation from Elk River. Studies completed in 2015 and 169 will be a subject of significant scrutiny from MnDOT 2019 resulted in identifying steps for the improvement of and other transportation partners in coming years to mobility on Highway 10 in Ramsey.In general,the highway ensure the corridor is able to serve both local and regional is on the path toward becoming a freeway facility. travel needs.As such,it will be essential for City officials to review any new development proposals along this The City of Elk River should coordinate with the City of segment of the Highway 10 corridor that may potentially Ramsey to ensure plans and potential modifications to impact travel and/or add to congestion.In anticipation of Highway 10 align with the future land use development multi-agency concerns about the Highway 10 corridor, plan for this area of Elk River. Elk River should take a proactive approach to evaluating future growth scenarios and options for managing access to Highway 10.Current plans for the Highway 10 corridor include the establishment of two interchange locations east of Highway 169:the new Twin Lakes Road corridor and at the eastern border of Elk River in the vicinity of Jarvis or Adams Streets. Mainline Cross-Sections A—1 WMI Highway 10 Preliminary Design and Environmental Documentation,SRF Consulting Group Inc and MNDOT 84 Transportation&Mobility Plan Elk River Comprehensive Plan DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY y; _ d Now 6 ' Stay Involved in Planning Efforts forts along Since any interventions to Highway 10 in this area have the Highway 10 near the Downtown potential to greatly impact Elk River's Downtown the City MnDOT also worked with Elk River and Sherburne County should keep open lines of communication with MnDOT to complete a vision for Highway 10 west of the Highway and Sherburne County to ensure no plans are made for 101/10/169 interchange.A June 2010 Environmental this segment of the corridor without input directly from the Assessment for the corridor in Elk River identified the City. long-term vision of a freeway facility,where Highway 10 is reconstructed as a four-lane freeway with a frontage road providing local service on the south side of the highway.Various underpasses(including at Jackson and Main Streets)and overpasses would allow for local street connections.A critical and challenging feature of this vision is the realignment of BNSF railway to the north to accommodate the new roadways and structures.Given the recent focus on reconstruction of Highway 169 and the ongoing nature of Highway 10 planning studies to the east, there has been relatively minimal effort towards next steps to this vision of Highway 10 near Downtown Elk River. Cross Street Cross-Sections Highway 10 Preliminary Design and Environmental Documentation,SRF Consulting Group Inc and MNDOT Elk River Comprehensive Plan Transportation&Mobility Plan 85 DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY Manage Street Networks Study the Potential Impact Congestion problems on local roads,often related to of"Curbside"Delivery difficulties crossing Highway 169,Highway 10,or the BNSF Transportation planners are noting the emergence of a railroad tracks,can create secondary challenges that need wide variety of options for delivery and the movement of to be managed.Entering the Downtown at Jackson Avenue goods from business to business and,increasingly,directly and the BNSF railroad crossing is an essential example from business to the end user.The changing landscape of of this.Most notably when congestion is at high levels, shipment is placing new stresses on local transportation motorists may be incentivized to take alternate routes systems.For instance,"curbside demand"is becoming an through the City to reach their destination.In the case of issue for both businesses and residences as short-term Downtown,CSAR 42/Parrish Avenue offers an option for Parking space is needed to complete delivery of goods. crossing the Mississippi River.People taking this route At the same time,there are also demands by other users create new congestion in Downtown.Similarly,a location for additional roadway space dedicated to uses such as like Line Avenue can serve as a'short cut"between Main long-term destination parking and bicycle lanes.These Street and Twin Lakes Road during peak hours,causing changing demands can occur over the course of a single higher levels of traffic than desirable for the residential day(e.g.morning demands versus nighttime demands) portions of this corridor. or with the change of a season(summertime public space versus winter snow management). As part of a future study for downtown Elk River traffic congestion and Prioritize Downtown for a parking capacity,the City should consider and incorporate Detailed Traffic Study policies around the use of curbside space that provides To keep traffic aligned with the road types they are direction for allowed uses while also recognizing varied intended for,an analysis of Elk River's local street system needs at the curb. connections and opportunities is recommended.This could be in the form of detailed traffic studies that eval- uate existing and future traffic and serve as the basis for changes such as access modification,lane closures,or possible conversion to one-way streets at select locations F21 where that is feasible.The Downtown street system should 169 be analyzed as a part of a Downtown Master Plan,further discussed in the Economic Development chapter of this Plan,to coordinate transportation improvements with other Downtown plans and projects. 33 Studies like the recommended analysis of Downtown and 33 the Highway 10 corridor east of the Highway 101/10/169 3z interchange,as shown in the Potential Studies map,will help address access concerns and manage the network so that traffic patterns are in alignment with the intended users.The potential realignment of or creation of new 3s """" as au roadway corridors in Elk River,as shown in the Roadway r' Realignment map on page 59,could also require analysis - F 169 for changes in travel patterns.Future design studies for 10 '"-�. ,a � .. new or realigned corridors should include traffic analysis 1 12 so that design features can be incorporated to manage 1 .. traffic movements as necessary. 101 1 Potential Studies � Currently Beim Studied Corridor for Potential Study 10 86 Transportation&Mobility Plan Elk River Comprehensive Plan J - ��- �\S�~ '` � +t Ar , :fes � • ( I x Ab �u Multimodal & Transportation Safety Pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure is increasingly recognized as an important component of a complete transportation network,meeting the entire range of s mobility from the start of a trip to its end.In addition to the transportation functionality of a trail and sidewalk �•. network,these facilities also provide recreational value to the community.While providing multimodal options in the community includes non-motorized options such as pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure,it also includes public transportation and alternative non-traditional travel infrastructure such as ride-sharing.Ensuring Elk River . has options for multimodal transportation throughout the community is important to enable those without access to cars the means to navigate to food,service,entertainment, and other destinations crucial to daily life.The following policies are designed to support a safe and efficient multi- modal network that aligns with growth and development in the community. ' Elk River Comprehensive Plan•Transportation&Mobility Plan 87 DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY �• r\ \ LLL � � Y Ij 41 s•!!ii!lZ27STAVENW- 221ST AV&N,M,. A 169 t� e 0 209TiHAVErNW •• 0 33 33 3 � ••��N s; 32 ae� I O i.93RDg,,Eti 44 40 SCWOOL'ST•N'waW a m 'MMS w v todNw� 169 10 ••• M��47O V.,,, �o A MISSISSIPPI-'RD NW t Z i'81,51T�Vf1N, 12 ! 101 175717%l/ff, Non-Motorized Transportation ` 165TH-AVE NW „the- T_a'Ls 10 ••• Proposed]Tat Proposed Trail Connection �tiiy Note:Proposed Trail/Connections as identified in the map are illus- trative only and are intended to highlight potential trail alignments and easement locations that would support a robust network of accessible trails in the City. 88 Transportation&Mobility Plan Elk River Comprehensive Plan i Exand Sidewalk Requirements To ensure that future subdivisions provide pedestrian in Subdivisions connections,Elk River should consider updating is subdivi- sion ordinance to require sidewalks.Many communities Sidewalks are an important component for facilitating require sidewalks be installed on both sides of roads pedestrian travel around a community.The public infra- throughout a subdivision,while others only require it along structure should connect homes to recreational facilities, one side or only within a certain distance from key desti- schools,neighborhood commercial nodes,and places of nations like parks,schools,or neighborhood commercial employment.Sidewalks also provide important transport nodes.Elk River should require a sliding scale of sidewalk linkages for individuals with mobility challenges and those improvements based on the development pattern and that do not have access to a motor vehicle. density of the subdivision.For example,mixed residential subdivisions should be required to install sidewalks on A recent sidewalk inventory collected as part of the Elk both sides of roads while traditional single-family resi- RiverTrailsMasterPlan offered several interesting obser- dential may only be required to install sidewalks on one vations.Certain portions of the community including side of roads.Similarly,rural residential subdivision should Downtown and its surrounding neighborhoods,as well only be required to install sidewalks within a half mile to a as newer residential developments,are often well-con- quarter mile of key destinations. nected via sidewalks.However,large sections of Elk River are underserved.Much of the area located east of Highway 169 and extending north of 197th Avenue to municipal limits lacks sidewalks.Similarly,most development north of Highway 10 and west of Elk Lake Road do not accom- modate off-road pedestrian pathways.Although some of these areas may currently feature development densities that do not warrant the investment in sidewalks or trails, continued monitoring of multimodal demands across Elk River is recommended to anticipate potential needs,espe- cially as areas develop or redevelop at higher densities. Elk River Comprehensive Plan•Transportation&Mobility Plan 89 DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY Consider Complete Streets Complete Street Design Policies orApproaches An example of how a typical collector street could be reconfigured for complete streets principles is shown below. Complete Streets is an urban planning concept dedicated to promoting the safe and accessible use of transportation infrastructure for all users.The policy seeks to incorpo- rate pedestrian,bicycle,and public transit facilities,when appropriate,into the design of a traditional street right- of-way(ROW).Common implementation practices include utilizing traffic calming infrastructure,ADA accessible sidewalks,and/or dedicated bicycle lanes. Enacting a Complete Streets policy or approach offers Elk River's elected officials a chance to better review capital improvements in the context of future planning.For instance,the design(or redesign)of any minor arterial or collector street could trigger an evaluation for recreational Typical Collector Street path opportunities.Adopted planning documents(e.g.the Trails MasterPlan)should offer guidance in the deci- sion-making process. Elk River has several thoroughfares that would benefit - by enhancing their respective pedestrian and bicycling amenities.Jackson Avenue is an important north-south route that facilitates travel to destination points including schools,Lions Park,and Downtown from residential neighborhoods to the north.As a former MnDOT roadway added to the City's jurisdiction under the state's Turnback program,Jackson Avenue features an expansive ROW, especially in-between School Street and Railroad Drive. Complete Street Improvements Replacing the current parking striping with on-street bicycle lanes would encourage use of alternative modes of transportation to ease congestion constraints. \ \ 193RDAI-,4W Main Street z Main Street is another candidate worthy for consideration s \\ clti "Redesign project isexpeted to dramatically change the xpeene on Main Street;congestion levels should noticeably drop. sc•toa�sr�uw / At the same time,Main Street is presented with some 169 / redevelopment opportunities for more dense land uses. �— \' 13 Future investments should focus on pedestrian safety �^'q��s- `"� �1 13 moving west towards Downtown.The segment is currently challenged along the northern portion of the roadway by \A a lack of sidewalks,which can force individuals to walk, unprotected,along the street.A combination of pedestrian, bicycle,and vehicle-oriented functions could be served Complete Streets through this corridor. Potential Complete Streets 90 Transportation&Mobility Plan Elk River Comprehensive Plan DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY - � a r Enhance Bike & Pedestrian - � - Connections There are areas within Elk River that have a robust side- walk and trail system in place.Gaps in the trail and side- walk network can be seen in the Elk River Trails MasterPlan - which identifies proposed trail/walk corridors that could TRAIL be implemented in the future as opportunities to address SYSTEM those gaps. Given the uncertain timeframe for future improvements to the Highway 10 corridor,the City should evaluate the feasibility of constructing a grade-separated option to CITY OF HASTINGS better,and more safely,route bicyclists and pedestrians PARKS&TRAILS over the BNSF railroad and Highway 10 into the Downtown. 41 This capital improvement also has the potential to become a signature,defining characteristic of Elk River.Adding decorative elements to a pedestrian bridge or underpass could highlight the connection between Downtown and residential and commercial areas to the north. _-- -; ) - 7i In addition,there are also opportunities to enhance connections to the Downtown from the Great Northern o Trail.Currently the trail seems to end at CSAR 1(Elk Lake Road).Select sidewalk improvements combined wExample:trail and park system map located at trail head with wayfinding signage could greatly improve trail user experience.The community's Parks and Recreation Master Plan also identifies wayfinding signage improvements as a means to complete the connection between the Great Northern Trail and the Mississippi River/Downtown.Any directional signage created for pedestrians should be prominent and provide clear direction to users and tie in ePark r r .,.I 111III�I" IIII�uH stings m.o. ► __ "- brinding for key destinations such as the Downtown. Prescott w.oaW.rAu Example:trail wayfinding Elk River Comprehensive Plan•Transportation&Mobility Plan 91 DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY EL.K RIVER 7:01 AM Thu RUB 13, 0 Q Me"Transit b Northstar Line Support the Involvement of Shared mobility options are most likely to succeed in Transit and Other Mobility areas that can take advantage of city trails and sidewalks, or where similar pedestrian-level amenities are available Service Providers that make for convenient transitions from modes of travel The NorthStar Commuter Line is a 40-mile route offering (e.g.drop-off or pick-up of passengers,safe management service between Big Lake and downtown Minneapolis with of dockless devices)or connect to key community desti- stops in Elk River,Ramsey,Anoka,Coon Rapids and Fridley. nations where resources such as electric vehicle(EV) Elk River's station is located in the southeastern portion charging stations can accessed. Elk River should explore of the community at the intersection of Twin Lakes Road the establishment of an initial set of key nodes and activity and 171st Lane.The facility features more than 750 parking areas where multi-modal options can be promoted.Initial stalls,including some available for overnight parking. targets are Downtown,City Hall,Elk River High School, Already facing recent ridership challenges,fallout from and the NorthStar transit station.Facilities improvements COVID-19 has raised concerns about the asset moving could include features such as dedicated bike/scooter forward. parking and EV charging stations and/or preferred parking. Regardless of the status of NorthStar Commuter Line,the When Elk River is considering allowing the use of new station location represents a mobility asset for Elk River micromobility options,the ability to address key perfor- that can be capitalized upon through the incorporation of a mance indicators such as equity in service to underserved wide range of transportation modes.To resolve,"first-mile, populations(poor or minority)and public safety should last-mile"challenges the City should consider utilizing be critical components of a decision.As the Twin Cities micromobility strategies at the station.Options such as gradually incorporates more micromobility providers into shared bikes,e-scooters,or taxi services could be offered transportation systems,sufficient data should be available at the hub as a way to connect transit users to their final for Elk River to conduct a study of best practices. destination.With large open spaces,the station could also be activated for more public uses such as markets or These technologies must continue to be monitored by similar community gathering activities. City staff and elected officials as they can lead to issues requiring policy level action relatively quickly.Elk River should proactively create regulatory policies or have Prepare for the use of Emerging systems in place that allow a rapid response to managing Mobility Solutions new modes/systems of transportation that maybe intro- Private sector technologies aimed at enhancing personal duced to the City. As an example,connected vehicles will and business transportation options continue to reshape be creating and relying upon vast amounts of real-time our environs.Innovations such as mobility service data to run effectively.Data management requirements providers(Uber,Lyft,etc.)or even the prospect of fully for a connected vehicle system could be extraordinary.An autonomous vehicles have significantly altered the way evaluation of connected and autonomous vehicle mobility people take trips in a very short time span.Rentable elec- requirements should be conducted in order to prepare for tris devices,such as scooters and mopeds,are available in potential infrastructure or policy level changes to smoothly cities across the country.For a nominal fee,individuals can transition into these modes of travel. use these often dockless devices which can reach speeds of nearly 30 miles per hour.Unregulated,these devices can become a nuisance,cluttering sidewalks or public spaces creating risk for personal injuries/damage. 92 Transportation&Mobility Plan•Elk River Comprehensive Plan DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY jAlk fief 50 Nook Optimize Connectivity with As efforts to bring more pedestrian and bicycle space Recreational Resources to current and future road corridors continues,the City should look for ways to fully leverage recreational trails Elk River has 16 miles of paved recreational trails in the as well.Implementation of the Trails MasterPlan will be community.These types of paths are ideal for all types key in closing gaps between recreational resources in the of active recreation including bicycling,jogging,in-line community.Connections between the more functional- skating,cross-country skiing,walking,etc.The City's ly-oriented street network and the recreational system hard surface trails can run in a closed loop,such as those will encourage more use of both systems and maximize within Lions Park,or be more linear like the one running the benefits derived from construction and maintenance parallel to Twin Lakes Road.The community also main- costs for multimodal facilities. There are many opportuni- tains 25 miles of natural surface hiking trails within its ties for funding trail projects at both the state and federal park systems.The Elk River Trails MasterPlan,adopted level,more discussion on how Elk River can support trail in 2018,provides guidance to elected officials,Parks and projects in the City is included in the Parks,Open Spaces 8 Recreation Commission,and City staff in the big picture Natural Resources chapter. decision-making,such as allocating resources for mainte- nance or building a trail,that will impact the system. The City's trails boast linkages to larger regional and national systems.The Great Northern Trail is a north-south route that meanders 4.75-miles through the City primarily along a former railroad right-of-way.It relies on this dedi- cated off-street path and to a lesser degree,an informal sidewalk system to traverse the community.Offering stunning viewsheds of natural amenities such as Wood- land Trails Park.The trail begins at CSAR 1 in Downtown Elk River and terminates at Lyoris Park in Zimmerman. The Mississippi River Trail(MRT)is designated through Elk River as well.As an east-west corridor running through the City,the larger MRT network connects Lake Itasca in northern Minnesota to the Gulf Coast in Louisiana.Within Elk River,the nationally recognized bicycle and pedestrian trail follows a combination of trails and local roads in the southeast corner before crossing over Highway 169 and Highway 10 on Main Street.The trail then exits Downtown by crossing the river into Otsego on the CSAR 42 bridge. Elk River Comprehensive Plan•Transportation&Mobility Plan 93 DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY I I. g y,, y Freight Freight traffic is an essential component of a successful Evaluate Potential Conflict local economy.For many communities,freight traffic between Downtown movement is predominantly limited to a truck and roadway system issue.In Elk River,the BNSF railroad is Development and the Proposed a defining element of the community and it represents BNSF Railroad Realignment another major avenue for freight movement. The vision MnDOT created for a four-lane freeway west of Railroads often offer the most cost-competitive option Highway 169 depends in part on the northward realign- for local companies to move raw goods and final products ment of the BNSF railroad tracks.As part of the relocation, across the country.The BNSF Railway is the lone railroad approximately 13 acres of new right-of-way acquisition providing service through Elk River.Running roughly would be required,including several residences and parallel to Highway 10,the BNSF is a Class I railroad that commercial properties.The realignment would result in provides freight service connections from the west coast changes to access and travel patterns on either side of the of the United States to Chicago.The most recent available railroad.As Elk River explores redevelopment options in data from MnDOT(January 2015)indicate that approxi- and especially north of the downtown area,evaluation of mately 54 trains per day use the BNSF railroad segment any potential conflicts with the proposed railroad realign- through Elk River,reaching maximum speeds of 79 miles ment should be considered. per hour. BNSF tracks transect the local street network throughout Elk River.Nowhere is this more evident than in Downtown. At-grade crossings located at Main Street and Jackson Avenue become physical barriers to accessing the central business district.Additionally,trains consistently disrupt local traffic causing travel delays and creating safety concerns for pedestrians or bicyclists attempting to cross the tracks.Peak hour congestion due to traffic on Highway 10 becomes further exacerbated by the adjacent BNSF railroad tracks.Besides creating congestion and safety concerns on the local street system,it also reduces reli- ability of the local road network for on-road freight carriers to businesses and residences. 94 Transportation&Mobility Plan Elk River Comprehensive Plan DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY 1 :. i, ,. - � • 7rik v, URE ji�j -E 10 For purposes of infrastructure planning,the City of Elk River 211 can be divided into two areas:rural(no municipal water and/ -- Infrastructure & Urban Service Area Management Vision Statement In 2035,Elk River will continue to demonstrate its commitment to managing growth in a responsible manner. Growth will occur and the small-town charm of Elk River will remain in place by taking advantage of infill and redevelopment opportunities at appropriate densities with utilization of existing utilities.As growth demands,the extension of the Urban Service Area will occur only in strategic priority areas that are adjacent to the existing City services boundary.Development and the expansion of utilities services will followsmart growth bestpractices, taking advantage of existing roadways,avoiding wetlands and valued natural areas,and maximize land prime for redevelopment. Goal Provide high quality service through proactive supportsof utilities and infrastructure that meets current customer demands and Policies: development• Align new expansion• Ensure high-quality utility service delivery is not impaired as occurs. Coordinate• providers vendorssuch as broadband fiber provide .. Urban Service Area. 96 Infrastructure Elk River Comprehensive Plan DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY Management of the Urban Services Area Elk River currently provides water and sewer services to sz residents within its Urban Service Area.The Existing Urban 169 Service Area,as shown in the Urban Service Area map, ----- ____ covers 9,021 acres of land in the City.The remainder of Elk River outside the Urban Service Area may be considered a "rural"area.The conversion of rural lands into urban lands ' _ • available for development and growth represents a signif- 1 \ 33 icant investment for Elk River.Any expansion of the Urban 33 "" Service Area requires consideration of the City's ability to meet development demands with existing infrastructure, • the need for new services,and the long-term commit- ments being made with growth.In terms of utilities infra- structure,City services are optimized when development is 35 44 �\ au done in areas immediately adjacent to current service and requires minimal new or upgraded facilities. ,� , 169 10 ��- ✓/�\� \ (13 Based on anticipated growth,the City expects its Urban 12 Service Area will look like the Proposed Urban Service )� Expansion Area,in the map to the right,by 2035.This Q , ` growth of the Urban Service Area adheres to the princi- ples of smart growth by focusing on locations adjacent to the existing area and leveraging core infrastructure(e.g. Urban Service Area Highway 169)for opportunistic expansion. Ex sarng Lirban service Area 10 Whether it is the City's wastewater and stormwater Proposed Urban Service management,the electric and water services provided Area Extensions by Elk River Municipal Utilities,or broadband services 1� provided by a variety of private suppliers,residents and businesses in Elk River have reliable access to the full range of utilities and infrastructure services.Any expan- sion of land use in the City must be made with care to ensure those services can continue to operate at the same or better levels in the future.By nature of the variety of service providers,substantial coordination is required when considering changes or improvements to the utility network. Elk River Comprehensive Plan•Infrastructure 97 Water Service F II Water service refers to the provision of a safe and adequate 3z water supply in Elk River.This means that when City residents and businesses turn on the faucet,clean and 169 ,z1 drinkable water is distributed every time.It also means ----- ----- that adequate water pressure and supply is maintained for fire protection. • 33 Elk River Municipal Utilities(ERMU)operates the water 1 ice• 33 system for the City of Elk River.The ERMU takes water • from eight groundwater wells drawing from the Mt. Simon-Hinckley aquifer.The ERMU also operates six water treatment plants,with capacity to treat 8 million gallons of water per day.In addition,ERMU has the capacity to store _ 35 44 4 million gallons of water in four water towers located 40 throughout the City.ERMU also maintains more than 119 miles of water mains and 1,200 fire hydrants in the City. 10 169 13 Consider Further Studies to Evaluate 12 Water Service Capacity The water pipeline system in Elk River has been stable over 101 time.This is primarily due to sandy soils in the City which means there are fewer problems with corrosion impacting Water Service Area pipelines.If a break occurs in the system,its impacts are - Current water service Area felt over a small area.Two pressure zones are in the ERMU 10 0 Existing Urban Service system providing the community with reliable water Area pressure.Some of the City's existing system is served by � Proposed Urban Service 4-inch watermain pipes that may need to be replaced with ' Area Extensions larger mains to accommodate future demands as the City grows.The City should continually monitor such demands in order to incorporate replacements into its Capital Improvements Program. In addition,the southeast portion of Elk River has potential for rapid growth as development occurs along the Highway Expansion of the Urban Service Area may lead to chal- 10 corridor.An evaluation of capacity and expansion needs lenges in maintenance of the water supply system.Some outside of the current Urban Service Area maybe needed areas of the system will be especially susceptible to the in order to ensure an appropriate supply is supported. stresses associated with this growth.The northeast section While the combination of existing development and of Elk River is identified as a risk area for experiencing potential new development surrounding the Ranch Road lower water pressures in its water supply.A study maybe corridor in northwestern Elk River may warrant studies for needed to evaluate options for increasing pressure and providing more water pressure or the addition of a water delivering water to this part of Elk River. towers in this region of the City. 98 Infrastructure•Elk River Comprehensive Plan DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY Wastewater & F II Sewer Service 3z The City of Elk River owns and operates its sanitary sewer I' 169 collection and wastewater treatment system.This system includes approximately 81 miles of sewer lines and 21 lift stations that transport sewage to the treatment plant that is located near the intersection of US Highways 10 and 169. , 33 33 Evaluate the Potential Impactof the Urban Service Expansion 32 Areas on Wastewater Services Recognizing the important linkage between commu- IL +� pity growth and the capacity to handle wastewater,the 3s � �� 44 -- 1 City completed a Wastewater Treatment Facility Plan in � �� '° � ,■/j � ao February 2013.This plan evaluated capacity of existing - ,�=:., 169 facilities and the ability to reliably achieve regulatory 10 � J \ (13 standards for wastewater discharge.The 2013 Plan led to \ 12 the construction of a new plant in 2017,doubling the City's treatment capacity from approximately 2.2 million gallons per day(mgd)to 4.5 mgd.Currently,the plant is treating 101 \ 1.35 mgd.The City's investment in upgrading treatment Wastewater & capacity was based on estimates of 2035 daily flow and Sewer Service projected areas of development.With further projected 0 Existing Urban Service Area expansion of the Urban Service Area,ongoing evaluation 10 Proposed Urban Service of the projected daily flow will be necessary in order to Area Extensions identify whether future expansion of the wastewater treat- Future Development Areas ment plant is needed. within Wastewater Treatment Facility Plan U.S.A. The Wastewater 6 Sewer Service map highlights the areas . Future Development Areas of the City for future wastewater service both within and outside Wastewater outside the current Urban Service Area as identified in the Treatment Facility Plan U.S.A. Wastewater Treatment Facility Plan.In addition to these areas,the map also highlights areas identified for waste- While there appears to be sufficient capacity at the water service expansion that will be included in the future treatment plant,wastewater services could potentially Urban Service Area,these are lands surrounding the Ranch be constrained by capacity of the pipeline system that Road Corridor,the Twin Lakes Road corridor,and segments conveys wastewater to the plant.For instance,the city has of the Gravel Mining Area anticipated to be available for identified capacity concerns in the conveyance system in development in the next 15 years. northeastern Elk River.As that part of Elk River grows,the collection system will likely need to be expanded in order to meet the wastewater service demands.Similar studies should be conducted for new growth areas so that the collection system can be managed and maintained. Elk River Comprehensive Plan•Infrastructure 99 DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY Stormwater Implement Green Infrastructure As the State of Minnesota has experienced more intense The City of Elk River is responsible for its stormwater rain events,green infrastructure offers cost-effective, management system.Through the City's Stormwater resilient approaches to management of wet weather Management Plan,Elk River maintains a system of catch impacts.The definition of"green infrastructure"goes back basins,pipes,ditches,and detention ponds.There is no to the Clean Water Act,in which it is identified as a range Watershed District or Water Management Organization of measures such as plant or soil systems,permeable with jurisdiction in the City.This means the City is regu- surfaces,or landscaping to store or infiltrate stormwater lated as a Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System(MS4) and reduce flows to sewer systems or to surface waters. community,responsible for compliance with National Single purpose"gray stormwater"infrastructure(conven- Pollution Discharge Elimination System(NPDES)permit- tional piped drainage)works to move stormwater away ting requirements,including its Stormwater Ordinance from the built environment.Conversely,green infrastruc- and the Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan(SWPPP). ture reduces and treats stormwater at its source,while often providing other environmental,social,or economic Encourage the Integration of Ponds benefits.Most of Elk River has soils that are conducive to in Developments as a means for green infrastructure principles;that is,the soils tend to Stormwater Management drain well.In some locations near water supply wells,the With nearly 400 stormwater ponds in the City's system, application of green infrastructure infiltration measures ponds are a major component of water management in Elk needs to be done with care to ensure contaminants are not River.Stormwater ponds enable treatment of drainage in introduced to the water supply. ways,such as the settling of sediment particles,which can The schematic below provides an overview of the spectrum accumulate over time and require maintenance to ensure of stormwater control practices from green to gray infra- performance of the system.The City should continue to structure.As Elk River grows and considers new opportu- monitor its stormwater ponds and incorporate pond issue nities for optimizing its investments in the built environ- resolution into other development projects like it did with ment,green infrastructure practices should be evaluated. the Redefine 169 project. While helping to mimic or restore natural hydrology to areas,it may also create secondary ecosystem benefits with natural habitat,water purification,erosion protection, and a more sustainable urban environment. Stormwater Control Measures (SCM) Natural Areas Stormwater Ponds Rain Filtration& Temporary Underground Conventional &Wetlands Garden Infiltration Basin Flood Storage Storage Drainage Intact forests, SCMs capable of vegetated SCMs in Surface SCMs like Surface SCMs like Underground SCMs, Urban drainage Wetlands,and other providing habitat and urban or suburban sand fitters within dry ponds with potentially including strategies,primarily undeveloped areas resembling natural settings minimal vegetation minimal vegetation storage,filtration,or concrete-based with areas or infiltration infiltration limited infiltration or storage Green Infrastructure Gray Infrastructure Source,Taguchi VJ,Weiss PT,Gulliver K,Klein MR,HozolskiRM,Baker LA,FirlayJC,KeelerBL NieberJl,ItlsNotEosyBeing Greerr Recognizing Unintended Consequences of Green Sto-terinfinsiructure Water.202012(2):522 https//doi.org4D..3390IM2020522 100 Infrastructure•Elk River Comprehensive Plan DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY Continue to work with the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency to Manage Water Quality iF in the City's Lakes and Rivers The City's MS4 permit is periodically renewed through an application process with the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency(MPCA).As part of the 2021 MS4 renewal process, Elk River is revising its Surface Water Management Plan. The Plan serves as an umbrella document for coordi- nation of activities and financing mechanisms related to the SWPPP and similar stormwater ordinances.The y >3 > MPCA has also identified three waterbodies in Elk River as i 9 "impaired'-not meeting applicable water quality stan- dards for various measures. Upper and Lower Lake Orono exceed nutrient standards,Trott Brook is impaired with low dissolved oxygen,and the Mississippi River has a total ' suspended solids impairment.Elk River is working with MPCA to develop strategic plans to address these impair- ments where necessary.Significant changes in current management of these waterbodies is not anticipated. However,if planning efforts with MPCA result in substan- tial new infrastructure costs,Elk River may need to adjust the current stormwater utility fee to account for additional cost. Examples of Green Infrastructure in Elk River Elk River Comprehensive Plan•Infrastructure 101 DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY �r rr II P11 Electrical System ERMU operates the electrical system in Elk River.Power is purchased from the Minnesota Municipal Power Agency and distributed by ERMU through a distribution system of lines and substations that are constructed and operated by ERMU.Electricity is generated primarily through four generation units,with the landfill gas generation facility at the landfill contributing in addition to the four units.After the completion of territory transfers in 2019,ERMU now provides electric service to the entire footprint of Elk River. In addition to Elk River,ERMU now also serves portions of Otsego,Dayton,and Big Lake Township.The expansion of territory covered means that there are now 611 miles of electric lines ERMU's system,with 70%of those lines underground. Develop Electrical Lines and/ or Substations to Meet Service Needs of New Development ERMU's electric power service has received recognition for consistency as a reliable power provider-national recognition through the"Reliable Public Power Provider" (RP3®)award program.As development occurs within Elk River,additional lines and/or substations will be neces- sary to maintain the high levels of service that ERMU has achieved. - --� — — 102 Infrastructure Elk River Comprehensive Plan DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY Broadband Broadband services have become an essential component of community infrastructure for job creation,education, 169 safe and connected communities,civic engagement, Fi21 government transparency,and emergency preparedness. Broadband services in Elk River are provided by a combi- nation of private sector companies who complete connec- tion of broadband coverage to residential and business ' ss 33 customers. Independent School District 728,which includes Elk River, recently evaluated broadband accessibility across the District as part of a request for potentially available funds related to the COVID-19 pandemic.The evaluation identi- fied general areas within the District that"may be in need eau of increased internet access'.The School District's eval- uation included the northern portion of Elk River among �' 10 - (�A 13 those areas. 12 Utilize Partnerships to Expande Broadband Infrastructure 101 Given the wide-ranging stakeholder needs andvariety Broadband Service Gaps of private providers,the public agency partners play an � important role in anticipating demand and coordinating ■ Underserved(at least 25/3 Mbps but \ broadband service.For example,in the case of public rights underl00/20 Mbps) of way,Sherburne County policy is currently to install Unserved(below 25/3 Mbps) broadband infrastructure into all new or reconstructed roads so that it is available as development occurs.As expansion of the broadband network continues to the most remote locations in the City,options for cost effective development will be needed.One example that is available is the shared use of Elk River Municipal Utilities(ERMU) utility poles for broadband lines. Explore Funding Opportunities through Federal and State Programs The City is also able to advance development of the broad- Federal funding programs are becoming available to band network by pursuing avenues of funding such as address gaps in the overall broadband network.For those those provided by the State of Minnesotas Department of remaining portions of Elk River that are underserved, Employment and Economic Development(DEED).DEED's federal funds such as those made available through the Broadband Grant program can provide up to 50%of a 2021"American Rescue Plan Act"(ARPA)may be used project's infrastructure costs.To create an effective funding toward providing and augmenting broadband service. and development environment,the City works with private Those funds may also be used to augment Elk River's providers to create proposed coverage maps with unserved cybersecurity resources for the protection of this critical and underserved areas identified.The City should work resource. with developers investing in unserved or underserved areas to apply for DEED's Broadband Grant program. Elk River Comprehensive Plan•Infrastructure 103 DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY V t 11' MUST BE LEASHED THANK 1 SCOUTCUB ., CK 98 CLEANUP AFT R Your COG WMCLELK-RIVERAN Landfill Wastewater Collection As part of ongoing management activities,Elk River and The Elk River Landfill,located at the northern border of Waste Management of Minnesota partnered in 2020 to the City(and crosses into Livonia Township),is a regional construct a wastewater pipeline from the landfill into the waste facility owned and operated by Waste Management municipal wastewater collection system by way of a new of Minnesota,Inc.Historically,approximately half of the force main along the Great Northern Trail.This pipeline municipal solid waste(MSW)generated in Sherburne directs contaminated leachate from the landfill to the Elk County has been directed for disposal at the Elk River River wastewater treatment plant.This is not a new source Landfill.In addition to accepting MSW,the landfill site is of wastewater to the plant.Previously,trucks were used to permitted to accept yard waste and recyclable materials haul collected wastewater from the landfill to the treat- such as appliances,batteries,tires,and metal. ment plant,and the daily flows were built into modeling for A notable feature of the landfill facility is its gas manage- the new treatment facility when that was built in 2017. ment system.Methane and other gases occur naturally in a Work to Divert Stormwater landfill.Multiple benefits are derived by collecting the gas from the Landfill and burning it in agas-to-energy plant onsite.In addition to creating electricity,the methane is converted to carbon Continue to work with the State of Minnesota to implement dioxide,a less potent greenhouse gas.Up to 3.2 megawatts the vision to reduce reliance on landfills for water disposal of electricity are generated at the plant,representing about in the City of Elk River.To do this the City should continue 10%of the City of Elk River's current electricity needs. efforts to design and construct the planned wastewater Based on current technology,the landfill is expected to pipeline. provide a reliable source of electricity for at least another 20 to 30 years. The State of Minnesota has adopted a vision of reducing reliance on landfills for waste disposal.However,the trend toward landfilling of waste has not changed,in part due to events such as closure of the Great River Energy waste-to- energy power plant in Elk River.While other landfills in the Twin Cities Metropolitan Area have requested permission to expand,there are currently no plans to expand the Elk River landfill.Current plans project the Elk River Landfill to reach capacity in 2030.Any further expansion of the landfill will not occur within the Elk River city limits.The portion of the landfill that is within Livonia Township could potentially be expanded. 104 Infrastructure Elk River Comprehensive Plan DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY • a i , •_ 1 Elk River is home to 44 parks and recreation facilities as well as over 1,000 acres of parkland.Parks are essential to the City's high quality of life,offering recreational opportunities ranging _ from baseball and soccer fields,to cross country skiing and mountain biking trails.In addition,open space and natural ` resources in the City provide residents and visitors opportu- nities for leisure activities and a chance to connect with the natural environment and add to the overall attractiveness of the community.With the Elk River,Lake Orono,and the Mississippi River at its core,the City is home to an impressive assembly of `4 assets grounded in nature,preserving and expanding access to , these amenities is key to planning for growth in Elk River.The Parks,Open Space,and Natural Resources chapter provides guidance and recommendations on how the City can balance growth and expand access to parks,open space,and natural resources for all residents across the community. P Y Elk River Comprehensive Plan Parks,Open Space&Natural Resources Plan 105 DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY Parks, Open Space & Natural Resources Vision Statement Elk River will be a destination for outdoor recreation,offering a wide selection of trails for mountain biking,hiking, hunting,fishing,and more.The City will also continue to host recreation events at the Furniture and Things Community Event Center,YAC,and ERX that bolster the local economy.The City will expand recreational access to the Mississippi River,Elk River,and Lake Orono,adding parkland to create a cohesive riverfront trail and boardwalk that follows the rivers flow.Additional recreational improvements to the Downtown will also expand waterfront access and include the installation of a newADA accessible floating dock system at Rivers Edge Commons Park. • . Continue to expand and enhance Elk River's network of parks, trails,open space,and recreational facilities to support active d passive recreation . • . • neighborhood Mississippi• Close gaps in the City's trail network. • Foster connections to the Elk and • Continue to keep Lake Orono and the Elk and Mississippi clean and safe for recreational activity. • Encourage wetland and native habitat preservation. 106 Parks,Open Space&Natural Resources Plan Elk River Comprehensive Plan DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY Recent Plans The City of Elk River has two recently adopted plans that form the basis for much of the content in the Parks,Open Space, and Natural Resources Chapter:the Parks and Recreation Master Plan(2015)and Trails Master Plan(2018).While these plans address park and trail needs at a system-wide level,it is important to recognize that new projects and needs will arise as Elk River continues to grow.As such,this Chapter is intended to place these plans in the context of the Comprehensive Plan and reinforce relevant strategies and recommendations as they support the community led vision for the future of these assets in Elk River. Powered by Nature City of Elk Trails Master Plan River Parks and Recreation (Approved 2018) Master Plan There are 47 miles of paved and natural surface trails (Adopted June 2015) throughout the City.The Trails Master Plan outlines the existing trail and sidewalk network in Elk River and The Parks and Recreation Master Plan provides a stra- identifies areas for proposed extensions and new trail/ tegic approach to protecting and cultivating the City's park walk corridors with the goal of creating a comprehen- and recreational assets for future generations.This Plan, sive trail network that weaves together neighborhoods in much like the Comprehensive Plan,is a tool to guide the the City.Important connections to note in this Plan are City Council,Parks and Recreation Commission,and City the extension of the Mississippi River Trail and the Great staff in the allocation of resources for maintenance,trail Northern Trail which tie into both national and regional construction,playground installation,riverfront protection, trail networks. and program development based on community desires and needs into the future.The"big picture"priorities ,,,,, ,I, I JflllliYli ldlil lIIIJ 1YIli IldlJd dll Ylll 111li Yil dll lIIIIElIti�11 Illliillll iii identified in the Parks and Recreation Master Plan for the + + + ++ future park system include: • Improve Existing Parks and Facilities. • Maintain Park Assets at a High Level. ity of Elk River • Strengthen Trail Connections. WC ecreation Master Plan Adapted June 201 - • Visually and/or Physically Connect to the Elk and Missis- sippi Rivers. r • Provide Engaging Recreational Programming for the Entire Community. • Preserve Natural Resources and Greenways. Elk 'I+ 7� Y di i _—'—� •�� I '.._ '�+tl'+'131113 11 Elk River Comprehensive Plan Parks,Open Space&Natural Resources Plan 107 DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY Park Inventory, SUPPI & Y, Distri utionr y The City of Elk River boasts 1,444 acres of park land that -T include six athletic and active recreation facilities,15 neighborhood parks,three conservation/scenic areas, 13 open space/undeveloped parks,and two community parks.All City parks and recreation facilities are operated and maintained by the Parks and Recreation Department under the direction of the City Council and the Parks and Recreation Commission. J � The majority of established neighborhoods in Elk River are within a half-mile,roughly a 10-to 15-minute walk,of a neighborhood park.However,much of the rural residential areas in the northern portion of the City are not served by neighborhood parks.In the north,the pattern of rural subdivisions made it less feasible to provide smaller parks within a walkable distance from existing residences which I IN`113 111 lead the City to elect to further disperse parks in this area. The south of the City is better served by neighborhood parks and also has access to community parks with play- grounds and other neighborhood park features which helps to close gaps in service for this area.The southern portion of the City is primarily built out which limits oppor- tunity for additional parkland acquisition. The railroad tracks present a major barrier to accessing Meadowvale Park for residents living on the north side of Lake Orono,underscoring a need for improved access in the City.The accompanying map highlights residential areas that are underserved by the current park system as well as areas that are planned for future residential devel- opment. It is important to note that much of the land in the Urban Service Expansion Area is outside of the current neighborhood park service area which means any new residential development here will need to coincide with additional parkland designation. 108 Parks,Open Space&Natural Resources Plan Elk River Comprehensive Plan DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY 2 � C 32 Y 5 Y W 221 TAVE 231 T AMEN 169 --------- --------' 121 2 , I ------------ ----------- ---- � o IIIff,, -=-309TkkAVENW-------- --------------------------- 33 •---- i 7 -�1 i , V!� 93ROgV 44 y Fti Vkl,WN, 35 p, e i � 40 "SCHOOL.-ST-N r/1A Q �IGHWAy 10 N, �l 169 1 /'kAi 13 C / !7! ® ® , 181ST-AVE=NW 12 MISSISSIPPI=RD=NW Fii� © /� - Parks and Open Space L-ITSTH AUE-'NW---- 101 \ Neighborhood Park Other Parks&Conservation Areas \ �) /-------- Golf Course Playgrounds 1 � Community Park L3 Neighborhood Park Half Mile Service Area Athletic Complex Residential within Service Area Undeveloped Park Residential outside Service Area -165THAVE NW` Facilities 1.Lions Park 16.City Park 31 Oak Savanna Park 10 - 2 Kliever Lake Fields Park 17 Youth Athletic Complex 32 Dave Anderson Athletic Complex 3 Kliever Marsh Park 18_West Oaks Park 33_River Place Park ,, 4 '_Kliever Point Park 14 Pullman Place Coop Green Space 34_Burr Oak Park \1---- --------------- �G 5_I Iillside City Park 20_Elk River Sportsman Club 35_Elk River Golf Course ,f 6_Meadowvale I leights Park 21_Point Bailey Nature Preserve 36.Oxbow Park 'Sic 7Fox Haven 22.William 1I1 Ioulton Conservation Area 37.Babcock Park 'S!y 8.Woodland Trails Park 23.Orono Park 38.Rivers Edge Commons Park '9Y, 9_Ridgewood Park 24_Pinewood Golf Course 39_Deerfield I Irl]Park 10_Trott BrookFarms Park 25_Camp Cozy Park 40_Royal Valley Park 11 Big Tooth Ridge Park 26_Sedge Meadow Park 41_Birch Meadow Park \ 12.Windsor Park 27 Ilighlands Park 42.Bamngton Park \ 13_Alba Ridge Park 28_Country Crossing Park 43.Baldwin Park 14.Rice Lake Park 29.M C.Park 4North Terrace Park 15.I Iarris Island Pari. 30.Fresno Park 455.Ranch Road Area Park Elk River Comprehensive Plan Parks,Open Space&Natural Resources Plan V4 log Expand Access to Improve Athletic Fields to Expand Playability Parks, 9pen Space & Soccer,lacrosse,football,softball,and baseball fields in the Natural eso u rces City have seen increased use as Elk River's population has grown.As such,scheduling time and field space for sports Expanding access to parks,open space,and natural teams has become more and more competitive and is resources is a top priority as the community is expected further exacerbated when rain,snow,and night skies leave to see undeveloped land transition to residential and these fields unplayable.Improvements such as installing commercial use in the near future.The following strate- artificial turf fields and lighting can extend playability gies are intended to help the City meet current needs and on existing fields in the City and should be considered future anticipated needs for park land and natural ameni- especially in parks that see heavy use and are challenged ties in the community. by wetland/water drainage issues such as Lion John Weicht Park. Modify Land Development Regulations to Encourage Focus Resources Developer Driven Park Creation The majority of neighborhood parks are located in the southern portion of the City,some of which have over- As Elk River continues to see growth and development lapping service areas and maybe redundant.The Parks new parks must be established to ensure equitable access. MasterPlan identified Baldwin,Meadow,North Terrance, Future densely developed subdivisions,particularly in the Elk Hills Green Space,and the property south of Ridge- urban service expansion areas of the Gravel Mining area wood Easton 191st Avenue as unnecessary from a system and along Twin Lakes Road,will need to include parks to standpoint as they lack real public access,are prohibitively serve these new neighborhoods.The City's current subdivi- small for park use,and/or are difficult to maintain.If there sion standards require the dedication of land or contribu- are no legal issues related to the dedication/donation of tion of cash for public purpose in every subdivision Bevel- these properties,the City should consider selling them to oped for residential,commercial,or industrial uses,or as a private owners to take the burden of maintenance off the planned unit development.While developers can provide a parks and Recreation Department.Selling these proper- cash contribution in lieu of land dedication,the City should ties would also provide funds for the purchase of lands in encourage parkland development be integrated into these neighborhoods with limited access to parks especially in sites to provide residents access to parks directly in the the north of the City.In evaluating the sale of such proper- neighborhoods being developed.When accepting land as ties,the City should also carefully consider neighborhood parkland,the City needs to ensure the land is appropriate input and identify potential improvements to nearby parks for park us.This includes an evaluation of usable active and access routes to ensure local residents remain well- parkland,access,visibility,and proximity to other parks. served.The City also needs to evaluate how the land was acquired(park dedication,donation,or purchase)and how Park Amenities Menu to properly vacate ownership of these properties. To ensure that the smaller park sites adequately serve the recreation needs of neighborhood residents,the City Update the Parks Master Plan should consider establishing a menu of park and open space activation items for the developer to choose from.A The Parks MasterPlan was adopted in 2015 and many menu of items would also ensure a base level of park and projects identified in the Plan such as the improvements open space activation while providing developers with the to Orono Park are coming to completion.The City should flexibility needed to customize parks and open space to consider updating the Plan to identify new parks and recre- their target market.This type of menu can be integrated anon needs in the community as it grows.The Plan update into the City's Code of Ordinances to help guide desired at a minimum should address service area needs of new park and open space development in new subdivisions. developments in the expanded Urban Service District and supplement the Parks,Open Spaces E Natural Resources section of the Comprehensive Plan. 110 Parks,Open Space&Natural Resources Plan•Elk River Comprehensive Plan DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY Open Space Menu Example A Park Amenities Menu like this Open Space 100 Menu can be included in a Code of ordinances or Zoning Code to help facilitate the integra- Required tion of open space and outdoor amenities into Open Space developer led subdivision design.It provides an easy to understand guide for"how much" and"what type"of uses should be included in a given development. Must be distributed into the following uses 50% 50% Active Uses Passive Uses oil mm ©m Both uses must consist of the elements below. Fill the circles to indicate which elements to include (Fill I circle below) Community m Community (Fill 2 circles below) Neighborhood Amenities`0 m 0 Pavilions Resort Style Pool 0 0 Gazebos Clubhouse 0 0 Community Garden Golf Course 0 0 Permanent Yard Games 0 Fire Pit (Fill I circle below) Recreation 0 Hardscaped 6 Landscaped Squares Certified Safe Playground Equipment 0 0 Benches and/or seat walls Tennis/Pickleball Courts 0 0 Historic Resources' Baseball/Softball Field 0 0 Private Greenway Football/Soccer Field 0 _ Multi-Use Hard Court 0 Environmental (Fill I circle below) Bocce Courts 0 0 Parkways 0 Preservation of Natural Resources (Fill I circle below) Public 0 Rain Garden Public Park Facility 0 0 Constructed Wetland Public Greenway 0 0 Stream Restoration Public Plaza 0 m Creative (Fill I circle below) 0 Outdoor Display of Public Art 0 Gateway Landscaping or Structure 0 Enhanced Roadside Landscaping Elk River Comprehensive Plan•Parks,Open Space&Natural Resources Plan 111 DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY _ 1 r� C . LAND TRAILS PARK 00 .may_ Foster Connections Expand Waterfront Connections and Close Gaps The Elk River,Mississippi River,and Lake Orono are major water recreation resources in the community.The City Elk River is home to over 47 miles of continuous trails should foster greater connection to these water bodies throughout the City.Of these trails,16 miles are paved and through a waterfront trail and park system that connects 25 miles are natural surface hiking trails in parks.The City the Mississippi River Trail to the Downtown Rivers Edge also has eight miles of unpaved mountain bike trails.While Commons Park and beyond to Lake Orono and the Great many residents do not live far from trails in the City there Northern Trail.The creation of an easement along the are barriers and gaps in the trial network that limit access. Mississippi River would provide continuous public access The Tails MasterPlan illustrates a comprehensive trail to the water and help create a riparian buffer that would network that ties together neighborhoods,schools,and protect native habitats and preserve wetlands and flood- existing parks and trails as well as easements.Implemen- plain areas along the river from development. tation of this Plan is key in providing pedestrian and bike connections across the City.The City should be incremen- tally constructing segments of recommended Trails Master ` r, Plan routes as public infrastructure improvements are i executed in the right-of-way and future developments are proposed.Further,the City should also explore state and federal funding opportunities for trails and pathways to help finance these types of projects when not easily incor- porated into Public Works infrastructure improvements. Remove Barriers to Trail and Parks Highway 169 is a notorious barrier between the east and r west of the City,often forcing many residents to drive rather than walk or bike to access the Great Northern Trail.The planned Redefine 169 project will incorporate separated grade traffic at its east-west connections and sidewalks.These east-west crossings should be designed to complete streets standards to make them welcoming to pedestrians and bikes.In addition,the BNSF railroad also cuts off many residents'access to parks and trails in the community.The addition of a separated grade crossing over the tracks in the south west of the City near Meadowvale Park should also be considered in any future Highway 10 studies,more on the impact of mobility across Highway 10 is included in the Transportation 8 Mobility chapter. 112 Parks,Open Space&Natural Resources Plan Elk River Comprehensive Plan DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY o W • 32� u W ......••••••2271411"M,N''•�� . ...•••• ...227ST.AVE.NW..., « 169 ..i•• ..... I tzt • —209,TH AVE:NW 33 � C a 33 „ X32• , iI � I 2 2 y % om 3 .•�• �'.• ................... ....... o � z z �:. • . ! � ••"$3RDq�E� i • 44 / i• • 192ND-'-'-T-`��-- '- AVE NW"�•.,.... a 40 Q, Q� �P • SCHOOL ST NW ••••• _ . � 169 �? ...........sem 10 1 �/M sr to J•..a•... y j MISSIISIRRI'RD'NlN' iB 1STfANE:NW , O 101 •773THAUE=NW Trails Mississippi River Trail Great Northern Trail Existing Trails •••• Proposed Trails Note:Proposed Trails as identified in the map esrHa\nrov are illustrative only and are intended to high- �• 10 ■ Parks lightpotential trail alignments and easement locations that would support a robust network Open Space of accessible trails in the City. mss, Elk River Comprehensive Plan Parks,Open Space&Natural Resources Plan •�•� 113 Udo i v�l Preserve Natural Amenities In addition,the City should also continue to work with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources to improve Elk River is home to a diverse variety of natural landscapes and monitor water quality in the Elk and Mississippi Rivers including forests,wetlands,oak savanna,prairies,agricul- and Lake Orono to ensure they are safe for recreational tural lands,the Elk and Mississippi Rivers,and Lake Orono. use. These incredible natural assets add to the beauty of the community and provide residents and visitors countless recreation and leisure opportunities that add to the high Utilize Green Infrastructure quality of life in Elk River.Preserving these natural ameni- The Elk River and Lake Orono are within the Lower Elk ties is crucial to ensure they are available for generations to River subwatershed of the Mississippi watershed.Roughly come.Key to this will be a balanced approach to develop- 30%of land in this subwatershed is used for crops,nearly ment that is respectful of the existing native landscapes in twice the area as the St.Cloud subwatershed.Run off the community. from agricultural chemicals and feedlots into waterways has been proven to negatively impact the quality of water Promote Conservation Design bodies and can impact whether they are safe to use as a recreational amenity.To further protect water quality,the The City of Elk River has over 5,650 acres of wetlands. City should utilize green infrastructure throughout the Wetland ecosystems have many benefits including community.Green infrastructure helps to naturally retain naturally improving water quality,protecting against and filter water as it drains into the ground and re-enters flood damage,promoting diversity of life,and providing a the watershed,these strategies help to keep pollutants variety of food sources to support the food chain.The City from washing directly into waterways and include: should work to preserve its existing wetlands and natural amenities,include riparian buffers around them,as well as • Native landscaping; integrates them into proposed developments by promoting . Grassed swales; conservation design.Additional detail on how the City can encourage and incentivize conservation development is • Infiltration basins; included in the Chapter Housing Plan. • Bioretention facilities; • Improve Water Quality Rain gardens; The Elk River watershed spans 613 square miles.The Green roofs; watershed has suffered from high levels of pollutants in Soil amendments; the past and has seen roughly 275 water improvement • Fertilizer application control;,and projects since 1994.Better water quality has been recorded in both Lake Orono and Elk River over the last 10 years, • Non-chloride(road salt)snow and ice controls. but the water bodies still exceed the state level for safe Additional detail on these strategies is included in the bacteria.To mitigate pollutants in Elk Rivers waterways,the Chapter 4 Infrastructure 8 Urban Service Area Plan. City should continue to implement its Stormwater Pollu- tion Prevention Plan(SWPPP)to reduce pollutant run off. 114 Parks,Open Space&Natural Resources Plan•Elk River Comprehensive Plan DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY ..r - i tif`i Preserve the Tree Canopy Any new residential development in the City,especially in the urban service expansion area,should be respectful of sz f the mature tree canopy.Preserving trees and native land- M+ "" 169 ` scapes in new developments is important in maintaining 121 the natural character that makes Elk River such a desirable place to live.Section 30-415 of the City's Subdivision Design +ter 'i',.� `'" Ij Standards includes provisions on the preservation of trees and and other vegetation as well as tree planting requirements. '.;, 71 33 , The City should continue to enforce these requirements i 33 and encourage strategies such as clustering development or orienting development along established tree lines to protect trees as much as possible as growth occurs.- - 44 �.' 7 ice♦ oy � � 40 169 IU 13 � 12 101 .,�.. Tree Canopy Tree Canopy =' (US Forest Service,2016) 10 ' r Elk River Comprehensive Plan Parks,Open Space&Natural Resources Plan 115 DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY J The Comprehensive Plan is a guiding document designed to help the City navigate growth and development in Elk River. r } The Plan reflects the combined efforts of City staff,the Compre- hensive Plan Advisory Committee,elected and appointed , _ officials,residents,and stakeholders.While the adoption of - the Comprehensive Plan represents the end of the planning process,it is also the first step towards guiding change within the Elk River community.The Implementation Plan outlines the specific actions recommended in the Plan to support the ! City in achieving the Comprehensive Plan's long-term vision f 'f for the next 20 years in the community. This Chapter trans- �' ►� lates the policies and land use recommendations into an easy to understand matrix detailing strategies,priorities,partners, and funding sources that allow for progress to be tracked and recommendations reassessed throughout the life of the Plan. � 9 Elk River Comprehensive Plan•Implementation Plan 117 DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY Administration Open Communication & Public Transparency Interagency Cooperation Input,ideas,and feedback from the community,special & Coordination groups such as the Comprehensive Plan Advisory Committee,City staff,and key stakeholders provided While plan recommendations require an active role by the the foundation for the Comprehensive Plan.Outreach City,successful implementation will require coordination collected identified key issues and opportunities,engaged with numerous partner agencies and organizations that the public,and kept residents up to date on the planning operate and/or have jurisdiction within Elk River.For the process through the project website,interactive outreach Comprehensive Plan to be successful,the City of Elk River tools,and more.Outreach is essential to educating the should assume a leadership role in facilitating the cooper- community about the relevance of planning and the City's anon and participation of its local and regional agencies, role in defining its future.The City should continue to organizations,and various jurisdictions.Establishing part- nerships and maintaining open and clear communication engage and inform the public on the major recommen- dations and vision of the Plan throughout its life.This will contribute to a more efficient implementation process. can be done through regular updates,coverage of major Implementation partners identified in the Plan include,but milestones and projects,and providing opportunities for are not limited to: residents to submit feedback and be heard. ' Sherburne County Update the Comprehensive Anoka County Plan Regularly • Minnesota Department of Transportation(MnDOT) The Elk River Comprehensive Plan is intended to be a • Independent Public School District#728(ISD 728) living document.As such,the City should take a proactive • Elk River Area Chamber of Commerce role in reviewing the Plan as unforeseen events,shifts in the market,changing demographics,or attitudes occur • Elk River Municipal Utilities(EMRU) to ensure it evolves with the community.The City should • Private Utility Providers systematically review the Comprehensive Plan every three years and revise and update the Plan accordingly.The • Elk River Residents review should coincide with the preparation of the City's • Elk River's Business Community annual budget and capital improvements planning.Many • Private Property Owners and Developers federal and state funding sources are tied to recommenda- tions from a municipality's adopted comprehensive plan. Keeping the Comprehensive Plan up to date will ensure the City can maximize federal and state financial resources to address relevant needs and aspirations of the community. 118 Implementation Plan•Elk River Comprehensive Plan DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY v i ti- ,r r 3 Potential Funding Low-Income Housing Tax Credit The Minnesota Housing Finance Agency(MHFA)adminis- Sou rces ters the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit(LIHTC)program. This program offers deferred financing options that The following is a description of potential funding mech- provide incentives that make affordable housing feasible anisms and sources currently available to the City and for developers to build .The MHFA's Qualified Allocation its partners for Plan implementation.As the funding Plan(QAP)is updated yearly and contains information sources and streams are subject to change over time,it on their top priorities for distributing these competitive is important to continue to research and monitor grants, grants.A LIHTC-funded project must pass the 20/50 or funding agencies,and programs to identify new oppor- 40/60 tests:at least 20%of residential units must be rent tur ities as they become available.It is also important to restricted and occupied by individuals with incomes at or note that at the time of the Comprehensive Plaris adoption below 50%of the area's Multifamily Tax Subsidy Project major federal pandemic-related stimulus spending was (MTSP)limits,or 40%of the units and residents must be at still working its way through legislation,as such the City or below the 60%MTSP limit.Recently completed projects should be aware that more financial resources maybe in Elk River include the Coachman Ridge Apartments at available in the near future and should be added to this 17250 Twin Lakes Road and The Depot at Elk River Station document. at 10653172nd Avenue NW. Housing Homeowner Assistance Fund Minnesota Housing Finance Agency The purpose of the Homeowner Assistance Fund(HAF)is to prevent mortgage delinquencies and defaults,fore- The Minnesota Housing Finance Agency(MHFA)has a closures,loss of utilities or home energy services,and wide range of programs aimed at improving access to displacement of homeowners experiencing financial safe,decent and affordable housing and to build stronger hardship after January 21,2020.Funds from the HAF may communities across the state.The MFFA distributed$1.62 be used for assistance with mortgage payments,home- billion in resources and served more than 72,900 house- owner's insurance,utility payments,and other specified holds.Programs range from homeowner refinancing and purposes.Funds are prioritized for homeowners who home improvement lending to rental assistance and the have experienced the greatest hardships,leveraging local construction and rehabilitation of new housing units. and national income indicators to maximize the impact. Over$50 million in funding is available for the State of Minnesota,to be administered by the Minnesota Housing Finance Agency . Funding is allocated based on home- owner need,determined by the average number of unem- ployed individuals and the number of individuals with mortgage payments that are more than 30 days past due or in foreclosure in the state. Elk River Comprehensive Plan•Implementation Plan 119 DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY i ,.• r '4 ' �,y 1.:16►1 ! 1..t. r. -,r►1,r. = � � � ^�'�. � (I Economic Development Open to Business The Open to Business program,provided by the Metro- Minnesota Investment Fund politan Consortium of Community Developers(MCCD), The Minnesota Investment Fund(MIF)is operated by the is a small business technical assistance program.Open Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic to Business provides services that promote economic Development(DEED),MIF provides loans to assist in development,create and retain jobs,and cultivate entre- expanding businesses.These funds aim at increasing the preneurs.Through Open to Business,the MCCD provides work force of industrial,manufacturing,and technolo- advice and counseling to clients to assist them in achieving gy-related industries to retain high-quality jobs,increase their entrepreneurial goals.The MCCD also provides small the local and state tax base,and improve the state's overall business loans for emerging entrepreneurs that face chal- economic vitality.MIF funding is limited to$1 million per lenges in accessing the commercial banking system. project,government organizations are eligible for one award per state fiscal year.Projects eligible for funding Transportation Economic Development must have at least 50%of their total project costs privately Infrastructure Program financed through owner equity and other lending sources. The Transportation Economic Development Infrastructure It is important to note that most applications selected (TEDI)program is administered by the Minnesota Depart- for funding have at least 70%of their projects privately ment of Employment and Economic Development(DEED). financed. In 2017,Crystal Cabinet Works,Inc in Princeton TEDI is a competitive grant program available to communi- MN received$450,000,adding a projected 26 jobs with an ties for road and public infrastructure projects that create average wage of$19.89. jobs and support economic development.The programs provide a portion of costs for trunk highway and other road Special Service Districts and public infrastructure improvements.Program funds A Special Service District(SSD)can be used to fund must be used to towards predesign,design,acquisition improvements and programs within a designated service of land,construction,reconstruction,and infrastructure area.An SSD is essentially added to the property tax of improvements that will promote economic develop- the properties within the identified service area and the ment,increase employment,and improve transportation revenue received is channeled back into projects and systems to accommodate private investment and job programs benefiting those properties.An SSD may be creation.There is no limit to grant amounts,however proj- established by petition by the owners of 25%or more of ects with a modest state request and maximized leverage the land area that would be subject to the charges and from non-state and public sources are more competitive. owners of 25%or more of the net tax capacity of property For 2021,a total of$2.9 million is available for eligible proj- that would be subject to the charges.Likewise,the proposal ects in Minnesota. can be vetoed with the filing of a formal objection if 35% thresholds for the same criterion are met.Minneapolis maintains 12 SSD's-implementing one or several in Elk River could help facilitate improvements within specified areas of the Comprehensive Plan. 120 Implementation Plan•Elk River Comprehensive Plan DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY a ups Field r � r rf Small Cities Development Program Tax Increment Financing The Small Cities Development Program(SCDP)is admin- Tax Increment Financing(TIF)funding is used to help fund istered through the Minnesota Department Employment the redevelopment of areas within a community which and Economic Development.Cities with fewer than 50,000 qualify as blighted,in need of conservation,or an area of residents and counties with fewer than 200,000 residents economic development.TIF utilizes future property tax are eligible for this program which provides grants for revenues generated within a designated area or district,to housing,public infrastructure,and commercial rehabilita- pay for improvements,and incentivize continued reinvest- tion projects.Grant funding is divided into three categories: ment.TIF dollars can typically be used for infrastructure, (1)Housing Grants,in which local governments lend funds streetscaping,public improvements,land assemblage,and for rehabilitating local housing stock of owner-occupied, offsetting the costs of development. In Elk River,TIF's are rental,single-family,or multiple-family housing;(2)Public categorized as Redevelopment,Housing(both last up to Facility Grants for wastewater treatment projects,such as 26 years,maximum),Soil Condition(21 years maximum), collection systems,treatment plants,wells,water towers, Renewal and Renovation(16),and Economic Development and distribution systems;(3)and Comprehensive Grants, Districts(9).Of all the TIF districts,the Economic Devel- which may fund housing and public facility projects, opment District is most often the one limited to a lesser or economic development projects in which funding term.Economic Development Districts are"incentive" is directed to building,rehabilitation related to faQade intended to get a business to locate in a community.In the improvements,code violations,and health and safety other districts,the costs are easily identifiable and usually issues.The maximum grant award for a single purpose significant such as demolition,relocation,environmental project is$600,000,and the maximum grant award for a remediation,and the cost differential between market rate comprehensive project is$1.4 million. and income/rent restricted housing. Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credit Coronavirus State and Local Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credits(HTC)are subsidies Fiscal Recovery Funds used for the preservation of historically significant build- The American Rescue Plan Act established the Coronavirus ings and/or neighborhoods.The Federal Historic Tax Credit State Fiscal Recovery Fund(CSFRF)and Coronavirus Local provides a 209/6 federal income-tax credit to renovate Fiscal Recovery Fund(CLFRF),which provide a combined income-producing,historic buildings.Property owners, $45.57 billion nationally to metropolitan city governments developers and architects must apply for the tax credit to help turn the tide on the pandemic,address economic through the Minnesota State Historic Preservation Office fallout,and lay the foundation for a strong and equitable (SHPO)and are encouraged to work with SHPO staff to recovery.The State of Minnesota will be receiving over$2.8 ensure that appropriate rehabilitation measures are billion from the CSFRF ,and distribution to Elk River would followed. be based on the proportion of the City's population relative to other Non-entitlement units of local government(NEU) in the state-which are local governments of fewer than 50,000 residents. Elk River Comprehensive Plan•Implementation Plan 121 DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY Sherburne County Economic Sidewalk Improvement District Development Authority Under Minnesota state law,a city may establish,by ordi- The Sherburne County Economic Development Authority nance,a Sidewalk Improvement District(SID)to pay all (EDA)is located at 13880 Business Center Drive NW Suite or part of the cost of sidewalk construction and repair 100 in Elk River.While the EDA does not offer funding by apportioning the cost throughout the property in the directly to municipalities,however it does provide several district on a"direct or indirect benefit basis.The city may programs for supporting private businesses growth.These establish districts in order to provide all areas with safe include startup coaching,business management coaching, pedestrian walkways to and from schools,school bus stops, entrepreneur roundtables,expert panel discussions,and public transportation facilities,and other neighborhood technical assistance through the Rural Ideas Network. and community services. Sessions can be scheduled and classes registered for via Sherburne County's Economic Authority Website. Transportation Revolving Loan Fund The Transportation Revolving Loan Fund(TRLF)serves as Transportation & Infrastructure an alternative financing tool to traditional transportation funding.Established through the State Infrastructure Bank Safe Routes to School (SRTS) Program's directives in 1997,the TRLF is used to support The Safe Routes to School program from the U.S.Depart- transportation projects through a low-interest loan.As the ment of Transportation,administered though MnDOT, loan is repaid,the funds are returned to the TRLF.Eligible provides funding for the planning,design,and construc- projects include predesign studies;acquisition of right- tion of infrastructure related projects that will substantially of-way;road and bridge maintenance,repair,improvement improve the ability of students to walk and bike to school, or construction;enhancement items;rail and airport safety including improvements to sidewalks,pedestrian and projects;drainage and safety structures and transit capital bicycle crossings,on and off-street bicyclic facilities,and purchases .In 2014,an$18 million 1%interest loan was traffic calming and speed reduction infrastructure. granted to Carver County for the construction of a bridge over the Minnesota River,with additional roadway safety State Aid for Local Transportation and capacity improvements. State Aid for Local Transportation(SALT)provides funding and support to local governments to assist in main- Clean Water Fund Programs & Grants taining a safe and effective roadway network.Funds are The Minnesota Board of Water and Soil Resources operates determined by the Legislature and distributed through many competitive and non-competitive grants dedi- MnDOT for the maintenance and construction of high- cated to protecting and improving the quality of water, ways and roadways.SALT also provides supportive staff in addition to managing water flows and reducing the that manages the state aid system and provides technical effects of erosion.Examples include the Multipurpose assistance in bridge design,construction and mainte- Drainage Management and Soil Erosion and Drainage Law nance,grant authorization for bridge construction,and the Compliance Program grants.In the context of a transpor- coordination of local,federally funded projects tation project,funding would likely be limited to roadside drainage like culverts or other roadway amendments that would mitigate negative impacts of water runoff or the disruptions of stream and river flows. 122 Implementation Plan•Elk River Comprehensive Plan DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY f 'F WNW -k Highway Safety Improvement Program Parks, Open Space & The Highway Safety Improvement Program(HSIP)is Natural Resources administered by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA).This program is intended to reduce traffic fatal- Conservation Partners ities and serious injuries on all public roads.This Feder- Legacy Grant Program al-aid program had a 2020 budget of$2.4 billion.To The Conservation Partners Legacy Program(CPL)is access HSIP funds,a State must develop,implement,and administered by the Minnesota Department of Natural update a state highway safety program(SHSP),produce a Resources.CPL provides funding for projects which restore, program of projects or strategies to reduce identified safety enhance,or protect forests,wetlands,prairies and wildlife problems,and evaluate the SHSP regularly.Eligible local habitat.Matching grants range from$5,000-400,000 to projects include pedestrian hybrid beacons and roadway local government entities and other non-profit organiza- improvements that provide separation between pedes- tions and a 10%match of non-state funds is required for trians and motor vehicles,such as medians and pedestrian all grants.The match may be cash or in-kind resources. crossing islands. The amount and source of match must be identified at the time of application,and total project costs may not exceed Congestion Mitigation and Air $575,000. Quality Improvement Program The Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Improvement Reinvest in Minnesota Critical Program(CMAQ)is administered through the Transpor- Habitat Match Program tation Advisory Board of the Metropolitan Council on The Reinvest in Minnesota Critical Habitat Match Program behalf of the Federal Highway Administration.Funds can (RIM)is administered by the Minnesota Department of be used for projects with a high level of effectiveness in Natural Resources(DNR).The purpose of the program is reducing air pollution,including improvements to bicycle to restore certain marginal agricultural land and protect facilities,transit facilities,intersections,sidewalk improve- environmentally sensitive areas to enhance soil and water ments,and signal timing.As a result of changes made to quality,minimize damage to flood-prone areas,sequester the program under the FAST Act adopted in 2015,vehi- carbon,and support native fish and wildlife habitats. cle-to-infrastructure technology projects are also eligible Private individual and groups may apply for the RIM for CMAQ funding.The most recent federal transportation program to help fund the acquisition and development of bill(the FAST Act)provides from$2.3 to almost$2.5 billion critical habitats by having land donations matched from a in CMAQ funding for each year of the authorization-2016 special DNR state fund. through 2020. Elk River Comprehensive Plan•Implementation Plan 1�3 DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY .y Rte' �� • ��' -� _ � Cross Country Ski Trail Federal Recreation Trail Program Grants-In-Aid Program The Federal Recreational Trail Program is administered The Cross Country Ski Trail Grants-In-Aid Program,funded by Minnesota Department of Natural Resources with the by revenue from the Great Minnesota Ski Pass,supports purpose of encouraging the maintenance and develop- the maintenance and grooming of cross-country ski ment of motorized,non-motorized,and diversified trails trails.Local units of government are eligible grantees.This by providing funding assistance.Projects include construc- Program is administered by the Minnesota Department tion,rehabilitation design,and redesign of recreational of Natural Resources,which makes payments for the trail trail linkages,their facilities,and programs for environ- maintenance performance benchmark(40%of the grant) mental and safety awareness.All projects must be spon- and the remaining 60%of the grant reimbursement based sored by a unit of government,preferably in cooperation on the number of hours groomed and the established with a local trail organization.Projects that involve urban grooming rates. youth corps workers such as the Conservation Corps of Minnesota 6 Iowa will be given special consideration.The Local Trail Connections Program minimum grant request is$2,500,and the maximum trail The Local Trail Connections Program is administered by grant award is$150,000.Equipment grants are capped at the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and $75,000 and require a 25%secured match. provides reimbursement grants to local units of govern- ment to fill in small gaps between destinations and Outdoor Recreation Grant Program residential areas.The Program is supported by"in Lieu The Outdoor Recreation Grant Program is funded and Of'lottery proceeds.Eligible projects include acquisition administered by the Metropolitan Council and the of and development of trails.Eligible applicants include Greater Minnesota Regional Park and Trails Commission. counties,cities and townships,and grant requests can This Program is intended for projects that increase and range from$5,000-$150,000 consisting of up to 75%of the enhance outdoor recreation facilities in local and commu- total eligible project costs with a minimum 25%non-state nity parks throughout the state.The Outdoor Recreation cash match.In 2020 Sherburne County was awarded Grant Program provides matching grants to local units of $100,000 for a$208,600 project to install a new trail government for up to 50%of the cost of acquisition,devel- system to improve connectivity to the Sherburn History opment and/or redevelopment of local parks and recre- Center. ation areas.The maximum grant award is$250,000. 124 Implementation Plan-Elk River Comprehensive Plan DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY Implementation Through Regulation The Comprehensive Plan is a policy guide that outlines the necessary actions for the City of Elk River to take to achieve the community's vision for its future.It is designed to serve as a foundation for decision-making for staff, elected and appointed officials,developers,residents,and other stakeholders.Despite the comprehensive scope of the Plan's vision,goals,objectives,and recommendations,the Plan is not regulatory. The Plan itself does not have the"regulatory teeth"needed to require new development and redevelopment in the City to align with the communi- ty's vision,or with the goals,objectives,and recommendations conveyed in the Plan. Land development regulations are the rules that new development and redevelopment must follow,making them an essential tool in Plan implementation.Often,communities will adopt a plan with a clear vision,only to`pull the reins back"on the land development regulations needed to achieve their objectives.The common rationale forthis is that stakeholders often feel that such regulations will drive development elsewhere.However,properly drafted land development regulations that align with vision and goals of the comprehensive plan can remove unnecessary barriers to investment byproviding flexibility for potential developments and offsetting the requirements related to design.In this way,land development regulations offer an opportunity to implement the Plan by making preferred development easy. 2 s. Elk River Comprehensive Plan•Implementation Plan 1�5 DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY 9Po MAS What do land Euclidean Zoning.Euclidean zoning is the traditional approach to zoning that divides a community into zoning develo pme nt districts based on the types of uses that are desirable in different areas and establishes rules for how land regulations do? in each district can be developed and used.Euclidean zoning districts keep high intensity uses that may impact Land development regulations dictate how land can be surrounding properties,like manufacturing,away from divided,assembled,built upon,and used and include less intense uses,like homes and schools.Each district subdivision,zoning,and sign ordinances. establishes different rules that limit development activity, including which use types are allowed and how they are Subdivision Ordinances permitted as well building size,where on a lot a building can be located,how much open space must be left over, Subdivision ordinances manage how land is split up and how much parking has to be provided. or assembled and regulate how public improvements and infrastructure are designed and constructed.They Form-Based Zoning.Form-based zoning also divides accomplish this by establishing standards for a variety a community into zoning districts,however,unlike of topics including the minimum length of blocks;how Euclidean zoning,form-based zoning districts are based roads need to be connected;where sidewalks are required; on the types of urban form and development patterns where street trees need to be planted;how stormwater is that are desirable indifferent areas.The foundation of managed;and the amount of land required to be dedi- form-based zoning districts in many communities is the Gated or activated for parks,schools,and other community rural to urban transect,which defines a series of areas facilities. that transition from rural areas utilized for agriculture to dense downtowns and urban cores.Form-based zoning Zoning Ordinances primarily regulates what development looks like and secondarily how development is utilized.This is accom- Zoning ordinances are the means by which local govern- plished by establishing standards for different building ments regulate land use.Local governments receive the types and how building fagades relate to the public realm. authority to establish and adopt zoning ordinances by the Incentive-Based Zoning.Incentive-based zoning is a state zoning enabling act to manage how land is devel- type of Euclidean zoning that offers flexibility in stan- oped and used in order to protect public health,safety,and dards and requirements in exchange for items that help welfare.There are several approaches to zoning,including a community reach its goals such as the provision of but not limited to those detailed as follows. affordable housing,and preservation of open space and environmental features.Increased density,height,or lot coverage are some of the most common types of incen- tives offered along with relief from requirements for parking and other development standards as detailed on the next page. 126 Implementation Plan•Elk River Comprehensive Plan DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY L =s r: Aa • Overlay Zoning.Overlay zoning is used in concert with Sign Ordinances Euclidean and form-based zoning to establish unique standards for specific areas that are otherwise governed Sign ordinances manage the type,size,and location of by multiple zoning districts such as downtowns, permanent and temporary signs in a community.Where commercial corridors,areas surrounding transit stops, a sign ordinance is located within a municipal code varies and historic neighborhoods.In some circumstances,the community by community,but can often be found in the overlay zoning district applies additional standards on zoning ordinance,building ordinance,business ordinance, top of the standards of the base zoning district,while in or as a standalone title.In 2016,the Supreme Court of other circumstances the overlay zoning district standards the United States made a decision in the Reed v.Town of supersede or replace the standards of the base zoning Gilbert case that impacted the majority of sign ordinances district.The standards established in overlay zoning throughout the country,Elk River's included.This decision districts often control building architecture and design, clarified that sign copy is protected speech under the first allowed density and development patterns,and other amendment and held that signs cannot be treated differ- allowed density make the area governed by the overlay district eptly based on their communicative content.If a sign regu- unique. lation can only be enforced by reading what the sign says, then that regulation is a violation of the first amendment. • Development Standards.Development standards,often For example,signs that communities traditionally have called standards of general applicability,are an integral established specific regulations for,such as real estate component of Euclidean zoning.They include regula- signs or political campaign signs,are no longer valid. tions that are relevant for all uses throughout zoning districts,such as off-street parking and loading,land- unified Development Ordinances scaping,fences,and buffer yards. • Use Specific Provisions.Use-specific standards are Unified development ordinances(often referred to as a another integral component of Euclidean zoning.They UDO)bring together all land development regulations include detailed regulations applicable to specific uses into one section of a municipal code including subdivi- such as accessory dwellings,home occupations,food sion,zoning,and sign ordinances.Unified development trucks,drive throughs,or outdoor storage,regardless of ordinances help to streamline regulations and review and the district in which they are located. approval processes,making them easier to use,admin- ister,and enforce. Planned Unit Development.Planned unit development (often referred to as PUD)is a development review and approval procedure that uses site development allow- ances for greater flexibility from underlying regulations in siting and design.Through the planned unit develop- ment process,a developer can request deviations from standards such as lot area,building height,mix of uses, and any other requirement of a base or overlay zoning district in exchange for tangible benefits to the devel- opment and community such as the preservation of open space,activation of public gathering spaces,higher quality architecture and design,and enhanced landscape. Elk River Comprehensive Plan•Implementation Plan 127 DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY Why do we need to the submittal requirements and procedures for condi- tional use permits and variances.Further,the application Update our current requirements for site plans in the Downtown District are not clearly and objectively listed,while the information land deye0 lment is defined for conditional use permits in Division 2.The code's user-friendliness would be strengthened if the regu latio n s. permit procedures were organized together within one division and if application requirements and procedures Ease of Use were clearly and consistently listed. Every Elk River resident'business owner'or developer Development Standards and should be able to navigate and understand the Code Use Specific Provisions without the assistance of an attorney or member of p City staff.One significant factor that detracts from the Development standards and use specific provisions are user-friendliness of Elk River's land development regu- scattered throughout Article VI-Zoning.The structure of lations is its organization.Land development regulations the development standards and use specific provisions should be organized in a manner that makes it straightfor- should be reorganized to reduce excessive cross refer- ward to use and administer.User-friendly regulations use encing,improve readability,and be more user friendly.In tables and graphics when appropriate,and order sections addition to restructuring these sections,the City should based on how frequently they are used and referenced. enhance and modernize existing standards and estab- lish additional standards in order to align with the vision, Elk River's current land development regulations are not goals,and recommendations of this Plan and to reflect structured to allow developers or members of the public current best practices.For example,Division 5 lists parking to find relevant information rapidly.For instance,Division minimums for permitted uses,however,the section does 2-Administration and Enforcement,which defines the not enumerate tools such as shared parking,an essential City's permit procedures and requirements,and Division tool in realizing the outlot development detailed in the 5-Supplemental Regulations,which includes regulations Economic Development Plan. for specific uses such as accessory buildings and personal solar panels,are at the beginning of Article VI-Zoning. Another barrier to realizing outlot development is the Meanwhile,Divisions 6,7,and 8,which list the allowable City's minimum parking requirements.For example,the uses,setbacks,and lot sizes for different districts,come minimum amount of parking required for a retail store toward the end of Article VI-Zoning.Most code users seek is I space for every 200 square feet of floor area.The to know the permitted uses and dimensional standards for national average minimum requirement,based on the their site of interest before understanding detailed proce- Institute of Transportation Engineers,is 1 space for every dures on permitting processes or regulations for specific 250 square feet of floor area.Although this difference uses,and so the City's existing format requires most code may seem marginal,when extrapolated out to a potential users to sift through the first several articles before finding development,it could have big impacts on the develop- the information they need to get started.The organiza- ment potential of a piece of property.For example,a typical tion and user-friendliness of Article VI-Zoning could be grocery store has around 40,000 square feet of floor area improved if the permitted use and dimensional regulations and would therefore require 200 parking spaces based on in each district were presented together in a tabular format Elk River's existing minimum requirement.The industry at the article's beginning. standard however would require only 160 parking spaces. Elk River requires that parking spaces be 9 feet wide and Further,the structure of information within the Divisions 20 feet long,or 180 square feet.Therefore,Elk River would of Article VI-Zoning is not intuitive and may require require the typical grocery store to dedicate 36,000 square many code users to look back and forth between different feet of land area to parking while the industry standard subsections to locate relevant information.For instance, would require only 27,360,an 8,640 square foot difference. a site plan review and permit process for applications in Not only does this excessive requirement limit the devel- the Downtown District is defined in Section 30-1026(g), opment potential of a property,it also negatively impacts while the procedure is not clearly enumerated in Division stormwater absorption and can lead to urban heat island 2-Administration and Enforcement,which contains issues. 128 Implementation Plan•Elk River Comprehensive Plan DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY District Specific Issues The Plaris future land use map identifies the preferred land uses in the City and illustrates how the community envi- sions development transitioning in the coming decades. Although the future land use map is not regulatory like the 101 ♦ zoning map,it should be used as a guide for the City when considering development proposals or rezoning requests. O To ensure that new development and redevelopment is consistent with the future land use map and vision and s goals of this Plan,the City should proactively rezone key `r areas to implement this plans recommendations. v The highest priority area for rezoning is the current FAST j0 District.The FAST District was established to realize transit m oriented development surrounding the Northstar Station, but since its adoption portions of the area have shifted to highway commercial uses.More appropriate zoning district designations for the various portions of the FAST District are detailed in the corresponding map.The future land use designations of the majority of the parcels in the 10 FAST District could be realized through zoning districts the City currently has established including the BP Busi- ness Park District,C-3 Highway Commercial District,R-4 Potential FAST District Rezoning Multifamily District,and R-3 Townhome District.However, the Neighborhood Commercial future land use designation RR Disiric� does not currently have a corresponding zoning district. C-1 District(Repurposed) As discussed in detail in the Economic Development Plan C-3 District portion of this document,the City should consider repur- ■ R-3 District posing its C-1 Central Business District to better align with the goals of the Neighborhood Commercial future land use R-4 District designation. FAST District Decision-Making Processes The development approval process is often as much a Although Elk River already has a process for the Board of factor in attracting local investment as the actual develop- Adjustment to approve variances from standards,the City ment regulations.It is recommended that the City perform should consider establishing an administrative process a thorough review of current procedures to identify that allows staff to approve small amounts of relief from barriers that create time delay or unpredictability in the the zoning requirements,such as a 10%adjustment to a process. setback,without a public hearing or consideration by a public body. In addition to clarifying the zoning ordinance's existing permit procedures,the City should consider establishing new processes within the ordinance.When a City grows larger,as Elk River is expected to,the number of requests from property owners for minor exceptions from the zoning standards,such as building setbacks,also typically increases. Elk River Comprehensive Plan•Implementation Plan 1�9 DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY 7 � � � � E �� R 4 ►$ I ! ,�■_ lie ? 1 h; AL Implementation Timeframe Timeframe indicates,in years,how long it would take to Action Matrix complete a specific action and is identified as one of the The Implementation Action Matrix offers a comprehensive following: list of all implementation strategies,policies,and recom- Short-term:Less than two years mendations contained within the Elk River Comprehensive Plan.The Elk River Comprehensive Plan is a long-term Mid-term:Two to five years living document.The matrix provides staff with a tool to Long-term:Greater than five years prioritize implementation activities and projects over Ongoing:Requires immediate action and continued the life of the plan.City staff and officials should evaluate attention throughout the life of the Comprehensive Plan each recommendation and annually prioritize the execu- tion of the actions based on community needs,ease of Partners implementation and current and projected resources.The Implementation Action Matrix consists of the following: Elk River will require the assistance of neighboring govern- ment units,organizations,and community groups to fully • A description of each project/activity to be undertaken. implement the Comprehensive Plan.While the City of Elk • A priority ranking for each project/activity. River is generally responsible for initiating and imple- menting most of the Plan's policies and recommendations, • A general timeframe for each strategy. many partnership opportunities will be required to achieve • An indication of potential partners that may aid with the goals and supporting strategies within the Compre- each activity. hensive Plan.The Partners section of the Implementation Action Matrix identifies potential partner organizations. Priority In addition,there may be instances where an organization Priority is assigned with consideration for cost and impor- that is well-matched to one of the Plan goals,supporting tance.Each action in the Implementation Action Matrix is Policies,or recommendations is not listed as a potential indicated with one of the following: partner for a given topic and should be added. Priorityl:Low-cost,easier to implement,critical Priority2:Essential Priority 3:Desirable 130 Implementation Plan•Elk River Comprehensive Plan DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY 4 Housing City-wi 4-1 Revise the subdivision development standards to require a minimum percent of 1 Short-term Planning Division housing units be provided in single-family attached and/or multifamily structures, following Comprehensive Housing Market Study findings. 4-2 Establish standards of review for subdivision applications that follow best practices in 1 Short-term Planning Division smart growth. 4-3 Consider proactively up-zoning areas as identified in the Land Use Plan and Housing 1 Short-term Planning Division Areas Plan to allow for a greater mix of housing types and higher density housing at targeted sites. 4-5 Encourage conservation design for all parcels within the Urban Service Area and 1 Ongoing Planning Division and adjacent the floodplain and wetland overlay. Private Developers 4-6 Update subdivision regulations to include provisions for the allowance of 1 Short-term Planning Division conservation design for residential,commercial,and business park developments. 4-7 Establish development standards for all new subdivisions that incorporate green 1 Short-term Planning Division and infrastructure design to preserve and protect water quality. Public Works Department 4-8 Establish subdivision regulations that require new developments to provide a 1 Short-term Planning Division and minimum level of connectivity internally andwith adjacent neighborhoods. Public Works Department 4-9 Where possible,require new subdivisions to provide connections to the existing trail 1 Short-term Planning Division and network following the Trails Master Plan and the Parks and Recreation Master Plan. Public Works Department 4-10 Establish a street hierarchy for subdivision streetscape elements that unify future 1 Short-term Planning Division and development with consistent sidewalk,parkway,and landscape location and width Public Works Department within atypicalcross-section. it Rural Residential 4-11 Limit development in rural residential areas located outside ofthe Urban Service 1 Ongoing Planning Division Area. 4-12 Encourage new rural residential development incorporate sidewalks,make 1 Ongoing Planning Division and connections to adjacent neighborhoods,and provide access to the City's trail network. Private Developers 4-13 Prepare for future service extensions that maybe requested in developments with 2 Ongoing Planning Division,Elk shared septic systems. River Municipal Utilities, Public Works,Private Developers,Property Owners Established Residential 4-14 Require infill development provide a robustnetwork of sidewalks and roadways that 2 Ongoing Planning Division and link up to existing roadways/sidewalks/paths in adjacent neighborhoods. Private Developers 4-15 Encourage a range of compatible housing types within a single residential 2 Ongoing Planning Division and development. Private Developers 4-16 Consider revisions to the City's Land Development Regulations to permit missing 1 Short-term Planning Division middle housing types such as 2 to 4 unit residential structures in established single- family neighborhoods,including the development of related performance standards and/or design guidelines to ensure high-quality development. 4-17 When evaluating development proposals,encourage the use of mixed residential 1 Ongoing Planning Division and development,including single-family attached and small scale multifamily buildings, Private Developers as abuffer between higher and lower intensity uses. Downtown Neighborhoods 4-18 Pilot the use ofADUs in the the Downtown/Uptown and Downtown Neighborhood 1 Short-term Planning Division, areas and consider revisions to the City's Land Development Regulations to Housing and expanding to all traditional single-family residential and mixed residential areas in Redevelopment Authority, accordance with the Land Use Plan. and Private Developers Elk River Comprehensive Plan•Implementation Plan 131 DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY 4-19 Work alongside the Housing and Redevelopment Authority(HRA)to encourage and 1 Ongoing Planning Division, enforce the continued maintenance and reinvestment in aging homes to ensure a Housing and healthy,diverse,and affordable housing stock is available to residents of Elk River. Redevelopment Authority, Building Safety Division, and Property Owners 4-20 Waive fees for licenses or permits associated with maintenance(such as dumpsters) 1 Ongoing Planning Division,Public for a limited time period every year to encourage homeowners to reinvest in their Works Department,and properties. Building Safety Division 4-21 Consider revisions to the City's Land Development Regulations to encourage single- 1 Short-term Planning Division,Public family home expansions including amending bulk and dimensional standards to Works Department,and allow for higher lot coverage,waiving or reducing permitting fees,and expanding Building Safety Division inspection times. 4-22 Advertise the Housing and Redevelopment Authority as a key resource for low and 1 Ongoing Planning Division, moderate income homeowners looking to complete home expansions in the City Housing and with an emphasis on the Downtown/Uptown and Downtown Neighborhood areas. Redevelopment Authority, Building Safety Division, and Private Developers 4-23 Require proposed development in the Downtown to create new public connections 1 Ongoing Planning Division,Public to the Mississippi River waterfront and for properties along the water's edge and Works Department,and provide a public easement for the future Mississippi River Trail extension. Private Developers Riverfront Residential 4-24 Require riverfront residential areas to provide public access to the river as 2 Ongoing Planning Division,Public development occurs and preserve and incorporate mature trees into new Works Department,and development. Private Developers 4-25 Encourage deep setbacks and landscape buffering for riverfront residential to buffer 3 Ongoing Planning Division and from the Highway 10 commercial corridor. Private Developers 4-26 Encourage mixed residential development including a combination of small lot 2 Ongoing Planning Division and single-family detached homes,duplexes,and townhomes in the southern portion of Private Developers the riverfront residential area. tationAre identi 4-27 As development occurs,require connections to surrounding development for 2 Ongoing Planning Division,Public convenient access to commercial area to the south. Works Department,and Private Developers 4-28 Encourage new housing development that complements existing housing 2 Ongoing Planning Division and surrounding the Northstar Station and leverages the existing natural amenities. Private Developers Twin Lakes Road Corridor 4-29 Encourage traditional single-family neighborhood development along the Twin 2 Ongoing Planning Division and Lakes Road corridor with an emphasis on conservation design respectful of existing Private Developers wetlands. Ranch Road Corrido 4-30 Consider extending municipal water services to complement planned sewer line 2 Long-term Public Works Department extensions and facilitate future development along the Ranch Road corridor. 4-31 Encourage complementary infill development in existing subdivisions and the 2 Ongoing Planning Division and provision of sidewalks and trail connections. Parks and Recreation Department 4-32 Consider revising the dimensional standards of the zoning districts that regulate the 1 Short-term Planning Division Ranch Road corridor to allow for lot subdivision to promote denser development. Gravel MiningArea 11 4-33 Require new development to provide connections to the existing neighborhood 1 Ongoing Planning Division,Public in the south of the gravel mining area through a robust network of sidewalks and Works Department,and connections to the Woodlands Trails Park to the west. Parks and Recreation Department 4-34 Ensure new development is screened from industrial activity to the north with deep 2 Ongoing Planning Division and setbacks and landscaped buffers. Private Developers 4-35 Encourage a mix of residential development with lower intensity single-family 1 Ongoing Planning Division and housing to serve as a transition to existing neighborhoods to the south. Private Developers 132 Implementation Plan Elk River Comprehensive Plan DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY S Economic Development 5-1 Consider proactively up-zoning areas as identified in the Land Use Plan and 1 Short-term Planning Division Economic Development Plan to support Downtown/Uptown expansion,commercial area reinvestment,and future industrial development. 5-2 Encourage third places be integrated into all new commercial development. 2 Ongoing Planning Division 5-3 Consider establishing a requirement for new commercial development of a certain 1 Short-term Planning Division size to provide a minimum square footage of public gathering space as well as standards for how the space should be activated. 5-4 Consider offering a fee-in-lieu of providing the outdoor gathering space on site to 1 Short-term Planning Division go towards the expansion and enhancement of Rivers Edge Commons Park and improvements to the public realm. 5-5 Promote outlot development by reviewing and assessing the City's land development 1 Short-term Planning Division regulations and eliminate any barriers to the consolidation and development of parking lots along the Highway 169 corridor. 5-6 Consider establishing standards that address the unique of outlot development 1 Short-term Planning Division including the need for additional signage facing parking areas and rights-of-way,and the need to accommodate service areas while minimizing their visibility. 5-7 Require commercial developments to provide bicycle parking,provide pedestrian 1 Ongoing Planning Division, walkways from public sidewalks to building entrances and between adjacent Public Works,Property buildings within sites,pedestrian wayfinding. Owners,and Chamber of Commerce 5-8 Consider standards that require the specific designation of ride-sharing service 2 Short-term Planning Division, drop-off and pick-up areas and curbside pick-up spots within sites to avoid conflict Public Works,Property between the pedestrian and vehicular circulation routes. Owners,and Chamber of Commerce 5-9 Encourage adaptive reuse older or obsolete commercial buildings for revitalization 1 Ongoing Planning Division and and reactivation. Property Owners 5-10 Evaluate regional development standards and consider enhancing standards for 1 Short-term Planning Division and landscaping,signs,building materials,and other site improvements to enhance Chamber of Commerce commercial area appearance. 5-11 Promote the use of shared parking between adjacent commercial uses. 2 Ongoing Planning Division and Property Owners 5-12 Ensure existing commercial and industrial sites adjacent to residential 1 Ongoing Code Enforcement neighborhoods do not intensify their activity in a manner thatwould create further Division conflicts. 5-13 Work with the Chamber of Commerce to develop a branding and promotional 1 Ongoing Chamber of Commerce, campaign that would set the Elk River apart from other communities in the region Economic Development including elements that emphasize outdoor recreation,unique assets like the ERX Department,and Business facility,and Downtown/Uptown. Owners 5-14 Consider creating design standards for streetlamp banners,plantings,benches,and 1 Short-term Planning Division and other street furniture that visually tie the Downtown together as a district. Chamber of Commerce 5-15 Consider creating a Community Ambassador position within the Economic 3 Short-term Economic Development Development Department. Department Neighborhood Commercial 5-16 In accoredance with the Land Use Plan,encourage the location of new neighborhood 1 Ongoing Planning Division, commercial development at major intersections in primarily residential areas to Economic Development increase access to daily goods and services. Department,and Chamber of Commerce 5-17 Promote neighborhood commercial development that is appropriately scaled to the 2 Ongoing Planning Division neighborhood it is in. 5-18 Consider creating a new zoning district or updating land development regulations for 1 Short-term Planning Division the C-1 Central Business District to include language about integrating commercial into residential neighborhoods to permit appropriately scaled neighborhood commercial development. Elk River Comprehensive Plan•Implementation Plan 133 DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY # Action Priority Tirnefrarne Partners 5-19 Establish easy-to-understand design standards for neighborhood commercial 1 Short-term Planning Division development that ensure connections to local sidewalks and trails,promote "360-degree"architecture that is attractive from all sides,and buildings and parking located in a manner that minimize impacts to adjacent homes. Highway 169 Commercial 5-20 Update development standards and consider design guidelines to prioritize 1 Short-term Planning Division and strategic reinvestment along the Highway 169 corridor,promote the repositioning of Economic Development underutilized properties,and facilitate experience based development. Department 5-21 Consider updating the development standards for commercial development along 1 Short-term Planning Division Highway 169 to allow for a greater mix of uses and improvements to occur as-of- right. Highway 10 Commercial 5-22 Encourage larger-scale commercial development along Highway 10 to alleviate the 1 Ongoing Planning Division and need for residents in the western portion and southern portion of Elk River to travel Economic Development outside of the community for essentials. Department Er Downtown Mixed U 5-23 Prioritize redevelopment and infill development of parking lots and undeveloped 1 Ongoing Planning Division and sites on Main Street. Private Developers 5-24 Consider creating a f@Qade improvement program thatwould promote reinvestment 1 Short-term Planning Division, into existing Downtown properties. Economic Development Department,and Chamber of Commerce 5-25 Support the strategic expansion of the Downtown and promote site assembly 2 Ongoing Planning Division and and comprehensive redevelopment of underutilized properties to more intense Private Developers commercial,mixed-use,and multi-family development. 5-26 Consider establishing a fee-in-lieu of parking fund or other funding mechanism 1 Short-term Planning Division to construct structured parking that would not only replace surface parking lost to development,but also provide additional spaces to support programming and events in the district. 5-27 Create a Downtown Master Plan that provides the clear policy direction and the 1 Short-term Planning Division detailed analysis and site-specific recommendations needed to promote Downtown expansion. 5-28 Expand Rivers Edge Commons Park to the parking lot to the west and incorporate 3 Long-term Parks and Recreation plans for the"Port of Elk River"project for the installation of an ADA accessible Department seasonal docking system. 5-29 Consider including the addition of amenities such as public restrooms or changing 3 Long-term Parks and Recreation rooms as part of the Rivers Edge Park expansion. Department 5-30 Provide waterfromtrail connections to the Mississippi River Trail network and the 1 Long-term Parks and Recreation City's other waterfront parks including Babcock Memorial Park and Bailey Point Department Nature Preserve. 5-31 Evaluate strategies for activating public rights-of-way such as Jackson Ave between 2 Short-term Planning Division, Highway 10 and Main Street as a part of the recommended development of a Chamber of Commerce, Downtown Master Plan. and Public Works Department 5-32 Establish a Downtown gateway feature at Jackson Ave and Railroad Drive and Main 3 Mid-term Planning Division and Street and Parrish Avenue. Chamber of Commerce 5-33 Consider developing standard streetlight banners that can be displayed year round 3 Short-term Planning Division and in the Downtown as well as seasonal and temporary streetlight banners to provide Chamber of Commerce variety and interest. Industri 5-34 Preserve large-lot industrial sites within industrial areas as identified in the Land Use 1 Short-term Planning Division Plan including rezoning to the I-3 General Industrial Zoning District and increasing the minimum lot size within the district. 134 Implementation Plan•Elk River Comprehensive Plan DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY Priority jjimeframe Partners 5-35 Continue to establish landscaped buffers and screening between industrial uses with 1 Ongoing Planning Division and lower intensity uses such as commercial or business park uses as future industrial Code Enforcement development occurs. Division 5-36 Maintain routine communication with the private land owners of properties 1 Ongoing Planning Division,Private identified for large lot industrial development and serve as a liaison with the Developers,and Property development community to facilitate the transition of these lands and guide the Owners review and approval process. 5-37 Consider establishing public-private partnerships,such as a Develop Operate and 1 Ongoing Planning Division, Transfer(DOT)agreement,with developers who are interested in site acquisition for Economic Development large lot industrial development Department,and Private Developers Hi Y'WFUMWercial area 5-38 Encourage the development of additional vehicle dealerships and complementary 3 Ongoing Planning Division, uses to create a dealership cluster in the Highway 10/169 Commercial area. Economic Development Department,Chamber of Commerce,and Private Developers 5-39 Consider rezoning parcels to fitwith the realigned vision for the FAST District area in 1 Short-term Planning Division accordance with the Land Use Plan. 5-40 Establish use specific standards for outdoor storage that require the use to be located 1 Short-term Planning Division on hard paved surfaces and be screened from rights-of-way by fences,walls,and landscaping. 5-41 Establish use specific standards for outdoor displays of merchandise that focus on 1 Short-term Planning Division interior parking lot and display area landscape that soften large expanses of paved areas and improve on-site stormwater management. Northstar Commercial 5-42 Encourage supporting commercial uses adjacentthe Northstar Station for 3 Ongoing Economic Development commuters and local residents,either as part of mixed-use development or Department and Chamber standalone. of Commerce YAC 5-43 Ensure highway commercial uses provide dining and retail options that support 1 Ongoing Economic Development activity at the YAC and provide visitors to this facility a nearby place to shop or dine Department and Chamber between tournaments or games. of Commerce XCR Commerci 5-44 Encourage commercial development along the northern portion of the Highway 169 3 Ongoing Planning Division, corridor that provide opportunity for the expansion of the ERX off-road racing facility Economic Development and complementary shopping,dining,and hotel accommodations. Department,and Chamber of Commerce 5-45 Conduct a Hotel Needs Study to determine the viability of hotel development in the 2 Short-term Economic Development City and utilize results as appropriate to market hospitality opportunities in Elk River. Department GRE Plant R us 5-46 Encourage business park development on the western portion of the GRE site if the 3 Long-term Planning Division, property becomes available for redevelopment. Economic Development Department,and Chamber of Commerce 5-47 Ensure any new development of the GRE site provides pedestrian access to Babcock 1 Long-term Planning Division and Memorial Park and the waterfront. Private Developers Downtown/Upper Town 5-48 Encourage business park design that leverages views of the Mississippi River and 2 Ongoing Planning Division and utilize low impact design and conservation design approaches that integrate natural Private Developers areas to create attractive campus environments. 5-49 Assess and update the I-1 Light Industrial Zoning District to permit artisan 1 Short-term Planning Division manufacturing that allows live-work spaces as of right. Elk River Comprehensive Plan•Implementation Plan 135 DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY # Action I IF Priority Tirnefrarne Partners 5-50 Work with regional partners such as the University of Minnesota,Cargill,Great River 3 Long-term Economic Development Energy,Sportech Inc,and Medtronic to establish an incubator in Elk River to support Department and Chamber researchers who want to bring new technology to market. of Commerce 5-51 Evaluate strategies for activating public rights-of-way such as Jackson Ave between 1 Short-term Planning Division,Public Highway 10 and Main Street as a part of the recommended development of a Works Department,and Downtown Master Plan. Chamber of Commerce 5-52 Consider placing a focus on multicultural events that celebrate the different 3 Ongoing Chamber of Commerce communities that call the City home. and Business Owners 5-53 Promote waterfront programming and events that leverage this amenity. 3 Ongoing Parks and Recreation Department,Chamber of Commerce,Business Owners,and Local Organizations 5-54 Consider establishing Downtown gateway signage at Jackson Ave and Railroad Drive 3 Mid-term Planning Division,Public and Main Street and Parrish Avenue. Works Department,and Chamber of Commerce 5-55 Consider developing standard streetlight banners that can be displayed year round 3 Short-term Planning Division and in the Downtown as well as seasonal and temporary streetlight banners to provide Chamber of Commerce variety and interest. 5-56 Work with the school district to engage students in an art competition to design 3 Short-term Planning Division, streetlight banners that represent what the community means to them. Chamber of Commerce, and Local Schools Large Lot Industrial 5-57 Preserve large lot industrial sites. 1 Ongoing Planning Division 5-58 Continue to buffer industrial uses with lower intensity uses such as commercial or 2 Ongoing Planning Division business park uses and wherever possible avoid locating directly adjacent residential uses. 5-59 Require buffers and/or screening between industrial uses and any adjacent lower 1 Short-term Planning Division intensity uses. 5-60 Rezone parcels identified for large lot industrial within the Urban Service Area to I-2 1 Short-term Planning Division Medium Industrial Zoning District and those outside the the Urban Service Area to I-3 General Industrial Zoning District. 5-61 Update the I-3 General Industrial District standards to require larger lots for 1 Short-term Planning Division development. 5-62 Consider requiring a larger minimum lot area and lot width for the I-3 zoning 1 Short-term Planning Division category to deter smaller industrial development on these sites and make other I-1 and I-2 zoned areas of the City more attractive for this scale of development. 5-63 Facilitate the Transition of Properties Identified for Large Lot Industrial. 1 Ongoing Planning Division, Economic Development Department,Property Owners,and Private Developers 5-64 Maintain routine communication with the private land owners of properties 1 Ongoing Planning Division, identified for large lot industrial development. Economic Development Department,and Property Owners 5-65 Consider establishing public-private partnerships with developers who are 1 Ongoing Planning Division, interested in site acquisition for large lot industrial development. Economic Development Department,and Private Developers 136 Implementation Plan Elk River Comprehensive Plan DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY # Action Priority Timeframe Partners 5-66 Serve as the go between to facilitate the transfer of these lands and guide developers 1 Ongoing Planning Division, through the review and approval process. Economic Development Department,Property Owners,and Private Developers FAST District Commercial 5-67 Leverage the existing auto-dealerships to attract additional dealerships and 3 Ongoing Economic Development complementary uses to create a cluster in this area. Department,Chamber of Commerce,and Private Developers 5-68 Consider streamlining the FAST District zoning designations byrezoning parcels to fit 1 Short-term Planning Division with the realigned vision for the area. 5-69 Strengthen the development standards to enhance the visual appeal of the area. 2 Short-term Planning Division 5-70 Establish use specific standards for outdoor storage that require the use to be located 2 Short-term Planning Division on hard paved surfaces and be screened from rights-of-way by fences,walls,and landscape. 5-71 Establish use specific standards for outdoor displays of merchandise that focus on 2 Short-term Planning Division interior parking lot and display area landscape that soften large expanses of paved areas and improve on-site stormwater management. Business P 5-72 Encourage business park uses at strategic locations along Highway 169 and Highway 3 Ongoing Planning Division and 10 that can leverage views of the Mississippi River and natural amenities like the Economic Development extensive tree canopy and wetland habitats found throughout the City. Department 5-73 Utilize low impact design and conservation design to preserve these natural 2 Ongoing Planning Division and amenities and create attractive campuses. Private Developers 5-74 Utilize business parkas atransitional use between higher intensity industrial and 2 Ongoing Planning Division other lower intensity uses such as residential neighborhoods in the City. 5-75 Assess and update the I-3 Light Industrial Zoning District to permit artisan 1 Short-term Planning Division manufacturing that allows live-work spaces as of right. 5-76 Work with regional partners such as the University of Minnesota,Cargill,Great River 3 Ongoing Economic Development Energy,Sportech Inc,and Medtronic to establish an incubator in Elk River to support Department researchers who want to bring new technology to market. 5-77 Consider modeling the incubator space off of the University of Minnesota Venture 3 Long-term Economic Development Center and provide a robust system of support,partnerships,and programming to Department allow startups to establish themselves in the City when they have graduated from the incubator stage. Transportation Mobility Roadways 6-1 Evaluate Ranch Road/CSAR 33 for improvements to be upgraded from a Collector to 3 Long-term MnDOT and Sherburne a Minor Arterial in conjunction with roadway realignments for CSAR 33. County 6.2 Consider reclassifying 193rd Street from localto collector. 3 Mid-term MnDOT and Public Works Department 6-3 Consider establishing a connectivity index minimum requirement for all new 1 Short-term Planning Division and residential subdivisions. Public Works Department 6-4 Utilize this Plan and the Driving Forward:Sherburne County Transportation Plan 2 Ongoing MnDOT and Sherburne to continue coordinating with MnDOT and Sherburne County officials as well as County neighboring jurisdictions. 6-5 Consider transferring the segment of CSAH 30 east of Joplin back to the City. 3 Mid-term Sherburne County 6-6 Consider transferring the identified segment of Joplin Street to the County. 3 Mid-term Sherburne County 6-7 Consider realigning segments of CSAH 33 to enhance east-west connections. 2 Long-term Sherburne County Elk River Comprehensive Plan•Implementation Plan 137 DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY Priority Tirnefrarne Partners 6-8 Consider implementing improvements identified in the 2019 study of Twin Lakes 2 Long-term Sherburne County Road by Sherburne County. 6-9 Consider enhancing north-south routes such as the potential connection between 2 Long-term Sherburne County and Filmore Street and Jarvis Street. Public Works Department 6-10 Implement planned connections for Twin Lakes Road and County Road 40(Cleveland 2 Short-term Public Works Department Road)and 5th Street from Dodge Street to Twin Lakes Road. 6-11 Coordinate with the City of Ramsey to ensure plans and potential modifications to 2 Long-term City of Ramsey Highway 10 align with the future land use development plan for this area of Elk River. 6-12 Continue to keep open lines of communication with MnDOT and Sherburne County 2 Long-term MnDOT and Sherburne to ensure no plans for Highway 10 west of the Highway 101/10/169 interchange are County made without input directly from the City. 6-13 Ensure the Downtown street system is analyzed as a part of a Downtown Master Plan. 2 Mid-term Planning Division and Public Works Department 6-14 Require any future design studies for Downtown and the Highway 10 corridor east of 1 Short-term Planning Division the Highway 101/10/169 interchange incorporate a traffic analysis. 6-15 Establish a policy regarding the use of curbside space for delivery of goods and 1 Short-term Planning Division and bicycle lanes. Public Works Department Sidewal 6-16 Require public sidewalks connect homes to recreational facilities,schools, 1 Short-term Planning Division and neighborhood commercial nodes,and places of employment in new developments. Public Works Department 6-17 Require a sliding scale of sidewalk improvements based on the development pattern 1 Short-term Planning Division and and density of the subdivision. Public Works Department Com Streets now- 6-18 Enact a Complete Streets policy or approach,guided by the Trails Master Plan to 1 Short-term Planning Division and support better review of capital improvements in the context of future planning. Public Works Department 6-19 Consider replacing the current parking spaces on Jackson Avenue with on-street 2 Mid-term Planning Division and bicycle lanes. Public Works Department 6-20 Focus future investments to Main Street on pedestrian safety moving west towards 2 Mid-term Planning Division and Downtown. Public Works Department Bike&Pedestrian Connections 6-21 Evaluate the feasibility of constructing a grade-separated option over the BNSF 3 Long-term BNSF and Public Works railroad and Highway 10 into the Downtown. Department 6-22 Ensure directional signage is prominent and provides a clear direction to users and 2 Mid-term Recreation Department ties in branding for key destinations such as the Downtown. Transit and Other-Mobility Service Providers 6-23 Conduct a study of micromobility best practices and consider utilizing appropriate 3 Mid-term NorthStar Commuter Line approaches at the NorthStar Commuter Line station with consideration given to and Planning Division equity,access,and safety issues. 6-24 Consider updating the zoning ordinance to require bicycle parking and EV charging 1 Short-term Planning Division stations in new parking lots. 6-25 Conduct an evaluation of connected and autonomous vehicle mobility requirements 3 Long-term Planning Division and to prepare for potential infrastructure or policy level changes to smoothly transition Public Works Department into these modes of travel. t 6-26 Evaluate potential conflicts with the proposed BNSF railroad realignment through the 2 Long-term BNSF and Public Works Downtown. Department Urban - - Area Management S iees,Area 7-1 Limit new development to areas within the existing Urban Service Area or in areas 1 Ongoing Planning Division identified for Urban Service Area expansion. atIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIill —Serve 138 Implementation Plan•Elk River Comprehensive Plan DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY # Action Priority Tirnefrarne Partners 7-2 Monitor water main/pressure demands in order to incorporate replacements into the 1 Ongoing Elk River Municipal Capital Improvements Program. Utilities 7-3 Evaluate options for increasing pressure and delivering water to the northeast 2 Mid-term Elk River Municipal section of Elk River. Utilities 7-4 Evaluate the capacity and expansion needs outside of the current Urban Service Area 2 Mid-term Elk River Municipal to ensure an appropriate supply is supported. Utilities Wastewater&Sewer Service 7-5 Evaluate the potential impact of areas identified for Urban Service Area expansion 1 Short-term Elk River Municipal that are not identified in the Wastewater Treatment Facility Plan to ensure Utilities appropriate conveyance capacity. 7-6 Incorporate stormwater pond issue resolution in development and infrastructure 2 Ongoing Public Works Department improvement projects as was done with the Redefine 169 project. 7-7 Establish a menu of green infrastructure options for new developments to meet on- 1 Short-term Planning Division and site stormwater management goals. Public Works Department 7-8 Establish and implement strategic plans for water quality management in 2 Short-term Public Works Department partnership with the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency and adjust stormwater and Minnesota Pollution utility fees as needed to account for additional infrastructure costs that may be Control Agency recommended. Electrical Sys e 7-9 Develop electrical lines and/or substations to meet service needs of new 2 Ongoing Elk River Municipal development. Utilities Broadb 7-10 Utilize public and private agency partnerships to expand broadband infrastructure. 2 Mid-term Elk River Municipal Utilities and Private Broadband Providers 7-11 Explore funding opportunities through Federal and State Programs(such as the 2 Mid-term Elk River Municipal American Rescue Plan Act)to address gaps in the broadband network Utilities and Private Broadband Providers 7-12 Work with developers investing in unserved or underserved areas to apply for DEED's 1 Mid-term Planning Division,Elk Broadband Grant program. River Municipal Utilities, and Private Developers Landfill 7-13 Continue to work with the State of Minnesota to implement the vision to reduce 2 Ongoing State of Minnesota reliance on landfills for waste disposal. 7-14 Design and construct the planned wastewater pipeline to direct leachate from the 1 Short-term Waste Management of landfill to the Elk River wastewater treatment plant. Minnesota 8 Parks, Open S• - & Natural Resources Parks 8-1 Reduce the parkland dedication requirements in Section 30-327 of the City's Code of 1 Short-term Planning Division and Ordinances to the NRPA standard of 0.01 acre per person if the parkland is provided Recreation Department within the development. 8-2 Keep the 0.03 acre per person parkland dedication standard as the fee in lieu of park 1 Short-term Planning Division and development to incentivize the creation of parks in new development. Recreation Department 8-3 Establish a menu of park and open space activation items in the City's Code of 1 Short-term Planning Division and Ordinances to ensure future parks are adequately activated and to provide flexibility Recreation Department to developers to meet the demand of their target markets. 8-4 Improve athletic fields with turf surfacing and outdoor lighting to expand playability. 2 Mid-term Recreation Department 8-5 Consider selling under utilized park properties if permitted. 3 Long-term Recreation Department Elk River Comprehensive Plan•Implementation Plan 139 DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY # Action Priority Tirnefrarne Partners 8-6 Require new developments incorporate trail and easements following the Trails 1 Short-term Planning Division and Master Plan. Recreation Department 8-7 Incorporate construction of trail segments as public infrastructure improvements 2 Ongoing Recreation Department are executed in the right-of-way. and Public Works Department 8-8 Explore state and federal funding opportunities for trails and pathways. 2 Ongoing Recreation Department 8-9 Ensure the Redefine 169 project incorporates complete streets standards to make 1 Short-term Public Works Department crossing east-west safe and inviting to pedestrians and bikes. 8-10 Consider a separated grade crossing over the BNSF tracks in the southwest of the City 3 Long-term BNSF and Public Works near Meadowvale Park. Department 8-11 Extend the Mississippi River Trail to the Downtown Rivers Edge Commons Park and 2 Long-term Planning Division and beyond to Lake Orono and the Great Northern Trail. Recreation Department 8-12 Create an easement along the Mississippi River that would provide continuous public 2 Long-term Planning Division and access to the water. Recreation Department 8-13 Create a riparian buffer that would protect native habitats and preserve wetlands and 2 Long-term Planning Division and floodplain areas along the river from development. Recreation Department 8-14 Promote conservation design to preserve existing wetlands and natural amenities, 1 Ongoing Planning Division including riparian buffers. 8-15 Continue to implement the City's Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan(SWPPP)to 1 Ongoing Public Works Department reduce pollutant run off. 8-16 Improve and monitor water quality in the Elk and Mississippi Rivers and Lake Orono 1 Ongoing Public Works Department in parternership with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources to ensure and Minnesota they are safe for recreational use. 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