7.1 PRSR 11-09-2022
The Elk River Vision
A welcoming community with revolutionary and spirited resourcefulness, exceptional
service, and community engagement that encourages and inspires prosperity. Updated: August 2020
Request for Action
To
Parks and Recreation Commission
Item Number
7.1
Agenda Section
Discussion
Meeting Date
November 9, 2022
Prepared by
Michael Hecker, Parks and Recreation Director
Item Description
Athletic Fields Analysis Discussion
Reviewed by
Cal Portner, City Administrator
Reviewed by
Action Requested
Discussion
Background/Discussion
HKGi representatives will present the Athletic Fields Study 2022 including overall findings, existing conditions,
and recommendations.
Financial Impact
$30,000 is in the PIF to complete this project.
Mission/Policy/Goal
Opportunity to live, work and play
Attachments
Elk River Athletic Fields Study 2022
ELK RIVER
ATHLETIC FIELDS STUDY
Elk River Parks & Recreation
November 2022
DRAFT
2 ATHLETIC FIELDS STUDY
City of Elk River, Minnesota DRAFT
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
CITY COUNCIL
• Mayor John J. Dietz
• Garrett Christianson - Ward 1
• Matt Westgaard - Ward 2
• Mike Beyer - Ward 3
• Jennifer Wagner - Ward 4
PARKS AND RECREATION
COMMISSION
• Dave Anderson
• Ryan Holmgren
• Greg Loidolt
• Mike Niziolek
• Mark Rathbun
• Andy Soltvedt
• David Williams
STAFF
Michael Hecker
Parks and Recreation Director
Warren Ellingworth
Recreation Coordinator
City of Elk River
13065 Orono Pkwy NW, Elk River
MN 55330
CONTENTS
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 3
INTRODUCTION/STUDY PURPOSE 4
OVERALL FINDINGS/FACILITIES 5
THE STATE OF YOUTH ATHLETICS 7
DEMOGRAPHICS 10
FIELD RATIOS 12
SOFTBALL 18
BASEBALL 19
FOOTBALL 20
LACROSSE 21
IMPLEMENTATION 22
3 ELK RIVER PARKS & RECREATIONDRAFT
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The City of Elk River is a growing community at the northwestern edge of the Twin Cities metro. The City is “Powered by Nature”
and the importance of parks and recreation is enormous in this community. Many of Elk River’s families have been a part of the
youth athletics associations and sports are part of what helps defi ne Elk River’s character.
The City has worked hard to provide its youth and adult athletes with safe and fun athletic facilities. This is most recently
evidenced in the development of the Ice Arena, Lion John Wiecht Park, and improvements at the schools. This study is to
help understand the current and future needs of the community, protecting existing assets, and also serving as guide for new
investments. This was completed through review of City qualitative and quantitative data, user group input, and consultant
analysis of trends, demographic projections, and recreation standards.
The City of Elk River continues to grow, in both overall and youth population. This is putting additional demand on the athletic
facilities.
The study identifi ed qualitative and quantity/capacity related needs and opportunities, both currently and anticipated. Needs
identifi ed included:
Supporting and
strengthening the
relationship between the
schools and the City for
the provision of athletic
facilities in the community
Resolve the
questions
surrounding
Hale’s Field
Longer term
expansion of
capacity through
construction of
additional fi elds
Continuing to pursue
tournaments that
provide unique hosting
experiences for the
athletes and bring
people to Elk River
Safety and user experience
improvements such as
netting, restrooms, and other
support facilities as well as
improved maintenance (both
City and School) of fi elds
This study recommends:
• Continue to maintain additional fi elds that can fl ex in order
to accommodate weather and tournament induced peaks in
demand.
• Improve facilities at DAAC to modernize the facility and improve
user experience
• Continue to limit access after weather events or long winters.
• Resolve the issues surrounding Hales Field. Consider a partnership
with the School District
• Refocus the ballfi elds at Oak Knoll to a dedicated 75’ baseball fi eld
and a 60’ fi eld, both with grass infi elds.
• Continue to evaluate usage, and if baseball shifts to OKAC,
increase availability for softball at YAC.
• Consider the development of an additional 3-4 small fi elds
with 200-225’ fences in the long run (by 2035) to accommodate
growing and future demand.
• Consider the development of 4 rectangle fi elds over the long
term (by 2035) to accommodate growing and future demand.
• Explore bringing amenities to the fi eld at YAC similar to what has been constructed at the ballfi elds. If the expansion occurs, it
may be better to focus investments on support facilities in that area.
• Working with associations to bring more tournaments to Elk River, particularly with weekend availability.
• Consider opportunities to double up scheduling, particularly when school users do not go later than 6PM
Sources: US Census, Elk River Comprehensive Plan, ESRI
-
5,000
10,000
15,000
20,000
25,000
30,000
1990 1995 2000 2005 2010 2015 2020 2025 2030 2035DAACOKACYACLJWP renovationYAC expansionPopulation growth and Field Development in Elk River
4 ATHLETIC FIELDS STUDY
City of Elk River, Minnesota DRAFT
INTRODUCTION/STUDY PURPOSE
The City of Elk River is recognized for its progressive park system, providing a wide range of passive
and active recreation experiences for residents and visitors alike. Within the City’s parks, Elk River
boasts a number of exceptional athletic facilities that have long supported the community and
hosted many of the community’s youth as they participated in sports. These are the facilities that
have served as the backdrop for many residents’ life lessons and lifelong memories.
Elk River has a commitment to ensuring that the people who live and visit the city have access to
safe, quality fi elds. As a city “Powered by Nature” and focused on being a great place to live, athletic
facilities are one of the important elements of the community. The City also knows that the whole
community benefi ts when the youth have the positive infl uences associated with playing sports:
exercise, teamwork, dedication, confi dence, friends, and fun.
THIS STUDY
The City of Elk River is in the
process of updating and
addressing many of the athletics
and park needs in the community.
The past few years have seen
signifi cant investment in the
ice arena, fi eld house, and Lion
John Wiecht Park softball fi elds.
The High School has recently
upgraded many of their facilities
as well. At the same time, many
of the fi eld sports are at facilities
that were built 20-30 years ago
or longer, when population was
much smaller and needs were
diff erent.
This study considers the current
context of fi eld sports in Elk
River and the future trends
aff ecting athletics and population
to provide an approach to
maintaining and expanding
facilities through 2035.
This study’s process drew from
three main sources:
• The City of Elk River’s fi rst-
hand experiences, policies,
and fi eld use data
• Surveys with user groups
• Consultant review of data,
demographic projections,
level of service standards,
facility evaluations, and
current trends in athletic
facilities
YOUTH SPORTS
The City’s youth programs are strong, with Elk River Youth Athletics (ERYA) leading the
off erings in the community. ERYA provides a range of competition levels across the
various age ranges. The sports off ered include:
• Baseball
• Softball
• Football (Flag and Tackle)
• Lacrosse
Elk River families that participate in Soccer are typically doing so through a regional
club such as Boreal FC that serves players across the northern suburbs.
Following an initial decline after the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, participation
numbers have rebounded well and are anticipated to continue to strengthen.
SCHOOL SPORTS
Outdoor athletics through the schools occur at the high school level. Elk River High
School underwent extensive renovations in 2021 to improve the conditions at the
school. Additionally, Spectrum School is a private middle and high school that off ers
football, soccer, softball, baseball, and track/fi eld on its own fi elds.
Elk River High School has a number of dedicated fi eld spaces with priority in the
afternoons after school lets out. While some youth athletic programming occurs on
these fi elds, they understandably have second priority after school needs, such as
games and practices. Games especially are more likely to run later into the evening and
bump youth sports.
ADULT
Adult softball does continue to utilize the Dave Anderson Athletic Complex. As
participation numbers have declined signifi cantly, the future of adult slow pitch softball
in the community is in question. The number of teams and the number of nights has
fallen off and there have been discussions of no longer off ering adult rec slow pitch
softball.
There are legion and VFW summer baseball teams in town. These teams typically utilize
Hale’s Field, which is a school district facility.
TOURNAMENTS/TRAINING
From time to time, the facilities are also utilized by outside groups and schools,
whether that is for tournaments, camps, training, or other events. These are typically
scheduled around other ERYA programming that has priority.
5 ELK RIVER PARKS & RECREATIONDRAFT
OVERALL FINDINGS/
FACILITIES
EXISTING FACILITIES
YOUTH ATHLETIC COMPLEX (YAC)
Elk River’s Youth Athletic Complex (YAC) is a set of fi elds dedicated for the
community’s young athletes. The pinwheel was built in (‘91-’03) with the additions of
the two south ballfi elds in 2004 and the lighted rectangle fi elds in 2006. Lights were
added to the diamonds before the 2020 seasons.
YAC has expansion potential to the south of the existing facilities.
NO. PRIMARY SPORT SECONDARY SPORTS LIT? PRIORITY
1 Softball/Baseball Yes City
2 Softball/Baseball Yes City
3 Softball/Baseball Yes City
4 Softball/Baseball Yes City
5 Baseball Yes City
6 Baseball Yes City
7 Football/Lacrosse Soccer Yes City
DAVE ANDERSON ATHLETIC COMPLEX (DAAC)
Dave Anderson Athletic Complex (DAAC) was built before 1985, replacing a baseball
fi eld that was there in the late 1950s. It has been updated over time DAAC served
as the hub of adult softball during its peak in the 1980s and 90s, and has continued
to host adult softball games, while also providing a venue for youth baseball and
softball. With infi elds that can fl ex between 60 and 90 foot basepaths, DAAC can
host games for 12/13 year old baseball on 70’/75’ basepaths, although it does
have skinned infi elds. The 285’ fences are adequate for a number of diff erent uses,
although adult men’s slow pitch softball prefers a longer fence in the 300’-315’ range.
With unfenced outfi eld foul territories, DAAC can be striped for football and lacrosse,
although lacrosse is more challenging as the seasons overlap with the primary
baseball & softball uses.
Parking at the site can be reliant on adjacent County Fairground parking. This is
limited during the times in the summer when the fair is active. Furthermore, the long
term location of the fair remains a question and it is unclear if DAAC can anticipate
that support parking in the future.
A small baseball/softball fi eld was removed in 2021 from the adjacent Orono Park as
part of the redevelopment at that facility.
NO. PRIMARY SPORT SECONDARY SPORTS LIT? PRIORITY
1 Softball/Baseball Football Yes City
2 Softball/Baseball Football Yes City
3 Softball/Baseball Football Yes City
4 Softball/Baseball Football Yes City
6 ATHLETIC FIELDS STUDY
City of Elk River, Minnesota DRAFT
OAK KNOLL ATHLETIC COMPLEX
(OKAC)
Oak Knoll Athletic Complex was developed in (‘91-’03)
with two full sized ballfi elds, two smaller ballfi elds, and two
rectangle fi elds. One of these baseball fi elds, Hale’s Field,
is actually owned and maintained by the school district.
The other full sized ballfi eld was removed in 2006 with the
development of the public works site.
LION JOHN WIECHT PARK
Lion John Wiecht Park is the home of two recently
constructed, high quality softball fi elds. These replaced a
single softball fi eld in 2020. These fi elds are the home of Elk
River High School’s softball team.
NO.PRIMARY
SPORT
SECONDARY
SPORTS LIT? PRIORITY
1 Softball/Baseball No City
2 Softball/Baseball No City
3 Football/Lacrosse Soccer Yes City
4 Football/Lacrosse Soccer Yes City
Hale’s Field is a School District Facility:
Baseball No School
NO.PRIMARY
SPORT
SECONDARY
SPORTS LIT? PRIORITY
1 Softball Yes School
2 Softball Yes School
KLIEVER LAKE PARK
Kliever Lake Park currently hosts football and lacrosse
practices. The park size is adequate for one rectangle fi eld, but
the parking situation is problematic. Youth soccer has been
relocated due to parking concerns. This facility works for the
time being, but is likely not a sustainable solution in the long
term without additional parking facilities.
CITY PARKS
In addition to the City’s main athletic facilities, some of the
neighborhood parks have been built with facilities such
as open playfi elds or other informal fi eld spaces. These are
typically not programmed for association uses except for
recreation level play, younger athletes, or when needed as
backup.
FURNITURE AND THINGS FIELD
HOUSE
While this study is primarily examining outdoor fi eld space, it
is worth noting that the City also built a fi eld house in 2020
with 30,000 square feet of artifi cial turf and additional training
elements such as batting cages.
This facility can be utilized during the winter or in case of
inclement weather for practices.
SCHOOL FACILITIES
Elk River High School (ERHS) and the middle schools recently
underwent a major fi eld renovation including the addition
of synthetic turf and the reconstruction of other fi elds. The
renovation resulted in the overall addition of one baseball
fi eld (from one to two) and the loss of two softball fi elds.
The fi elds at ERHS are used by school teams and youth athletic
associations.
Lincoln and Parker Elementary Schools have 4 softball fi elds
together and Meadowvale has another two with the ability
to stripe additional rectangle fi elds. Twin Lakes has another
diamond and rectangle fi eld. Similar to neighborhood parks,
the elementary schools are not heavily programmed.
While the facilities are maintained by the schools, (rather than
the City) many participants and families do not understand or
care if the facility they are at is a School District facility or a City
facility.
It is worth noting that the recent renovations at the high
school temporarily created a very large shortage of fi eld space
in the community. This was around the same time that Lion
John Wiecht Park was undergoing renovations as well. This
created a period of very severe limitation to fi eld supply. As
fi elds come back on line, that is being reduced.
FUTURE EXPANSIONS
As the City continues to grow, parkland will need to be
developed to meet the community’s needs.
7 ELK RIVER PARKS & RECREATIONDRAFT
THE STATE OF YOUTH ATHLETICS
Nationally, youth athletics is changing dramatically. From spending to specialization, safety to expectations, the
standards that facilities and associations are being held to keep rising.
SPENDING
Youth sports has become big business. Between equipment and fees, many
families can expect to spend at least $500 per athlete, per season. At higher levels
of competition, such as traveling and club, that price tag can easily reach into the
thousands of dollars. Scholarships, equipment swaps, and other programs may
help blunt that cost for some families, but in general youth sports represent a real
fi nancial commitment. Spending on youth sports has risen approximately 55% from
2010 to 2017 and represented about $19 billion in spending annually in the US
before the pandemic. By population, this means that Minnesotans spend more than
$325 million per year on youth sports. This trend does not show signs of slowing
down and spending is expected to continue to grow.
One of the reasons that traveling and club sports become more expensive so
quickly is participation in tournaments. Tournament registration fees, gas, food, and
lodging all get added to team fees and equipment spending.
Many Cities have recognized the value of youth athletics and see it as an economic
development opportunity. Elite facilities draw families to a community to live and
work. They also bring in outside spending through games and tournaments. The
Minnesota Amateur Sports Commission (MASC) is a statewide group that has
economic development as their primary purpose. MASC operates facilities across
the state, including the National Sports Center in Blaine, plus ten other facilities
that bring tourism dollars to the state. A 2018 study found visitors to MASC facilities
spent $76.6 Million that year alone.
Elk River has developed a great facility for hosting tournaments in the Youth Athletic
Complex. The primary issue from an economic development perspective is the
location of the complex, relative to the commercial nodes in Elk River (visitors
coming from the metro are more likely to stop in Ramsey or Otsego), and a
lack of lodging options locally to help keep dollars in the community. The
other facilities in Elk River are better positioned to capture food, drink, and
gas spending.
SPECIALIZATION
More and more athletes are opting to specialize in specifi c sports. This
may be due to really loving a particular sport, feeling pressure from
coaches or parents to participate in off -season training or second
seasons, or the perception that specialization will allow them to get
better at sport specifi c skills. While research is showing benefi ts to cross
training, trends still show specialization occurring more and more.
The implications of this for facilities are longer/more seasons for specifi c
sports and demand for specialized training facilities and coaches. The City of
Elk River has seen pressure for early and late season use on fi elds. Additionally,
some of the diamonds are striped to accommodate other sports that use
fi elds in the fall. This demand makes it more challenging for maintenance, resting
fi elds, and protecting them when they are vulnerable during freeze/thaw cycles or
after weather events. The recent addition of turf at the Furniture and Things Center has
started to relieve some of the pressure, particularly after weather events.
“Spending on youth sports has risen
approximately 55% from 2010 to 2017
and represented about $19 billion in
spending annually in the US before the
pandemic. By population, this means
that Minnesotans spend more than
$325 million per year on youth sports”.
55%
2010 2017
8 ATHLETIC FIELDS STUDY
City of Elk River, Minnesota DRAFT
TIME COMMITMENTS
Talk with many parents and one will realize the amount of time that is dedicated
to supporting their children in youth athletics. Driving to and from practices,
watching games, and volunteering is taking up more and more of a parent’s time.
When you introduce weekend tournaments, that commitment is even more
prominent. As families spend more time at fi elds, ballparks, and other sports
facilities, the demand for support facilities also grows. This may include things
such as wi-fi , concessions/food, and playgrounds/splash pads for siblings.
HIGHER EXPECTATIONS
Between the fi nancial and time commitments that many families make for youth
athletics, it is not surprising that expectations about facilities and competition
have risen. Families and athletic associations are requesting more of the park
organizations that support them. This includes the quality of fi elds, the times that
are available for practice, the support facilities, and the overall user experience.
SAFETY
Safety has always been an important consideration for youth athletics, but recent
developments have shone a light on it even more. As we learn more about
concussions and their long lasting impacts, there is a growing push to change
and improve games to reduce the risk of head injuries. While football is the most
cited sport, changes have also come to other sports as well. Heading in soccer
and hitting at the younger levels in hockey and lacrosse have both been subject
to recent rule changes and shifts in how sports are played and practiced. This has
also led to increased requirements for the training of coaches and in some cases,
the introduction of baseline testing for athletes.
As specialization increases, so does the potential for specifi c use injuries. The
University of Wisconsin has led the research on specialization and the relationship
to injuries. One of their key fi ndings is that youth athletes that only participate in a
single sport for a larger portion of the year are more likely to suff er repetitive use/
overuse injuries and a higher prevalence of lower body injuries in general. This
has the potential to change training practices for athletes, particularly in sports
that have multiple seasons.
Since 2020, the impact of COVID-19 has been felt in athletics. The need for social
distancing has changed the way dugouts and sidelines are designed and operate.
Moving forward, new facilities may expand these areas to accommodate the
requirement for more room. Indoor facilities will need to pay more attention to air
circulation and fi ltration. Players are also being tested and it is not uncommon for
athletes to have to miss competitions and training if they are exposed or infected.
The impacts of this time off and the potential cardiac impacts necessitate an
informed approach to bringing players back into game shape.
Facilities are also improving with regards to safety. While some older folks may
brag about playing on the sandlot with rocks and packed dirt, playing surfaces
are much improved and players and parents are demanding safer fi elds. Fields
are more closely managed to ensure a more consistent and safer surface. This
can include the use of sand based fi elds, new ag-lime technologies, irrigation,
improved drainage, warning tracks, and artifi cial turf.
9 ELK RIVER PARKS & RECREATIONDRAFT
DIVERGENCE OF COMPETITION LEVELS
While many youth sports are becoming more competitive and this is driving
many of the expectations about associations, facilities, and investment, it is
important that communities retain a variety of off erings for youth. Rec leagues
provide a lower cost/lower time investment option that still comes with the many
benefi ts of youth sports participation, and may be especially important for kids
from lower income households or those without family connections to athletics.
For families making less than $50,000 per year, cost is the most common reason
given for why their kids do not play organized sports according to the Aspen
Institute. For the traveling and club teams, rec/in-house teams are important for
getting players into a sport and supporting player development.
The terminology varies from sport to sport but there are three main levels of
competition:
• In-House/Recreational
• Traveling
• Club
The parents of most children playing today played in local team sports often
competing against players from their own city or region, depending on the
sport. The expansion of traveling and club teams has been a signifi cant shift in
the youth sports landscape in the last generation. Elk River’s approach has been
to prioritize community based programs, and recognize that there will be some
additional demand for facilities from outside organizations or associations.
For families
making less than
$50,000 per year,
cost is the most
common reason
given for why
their kids do not
play organized
sports. Rec/in-
house teams are
important for
getting players
into a sport and
supporting player
development
1 0 ATHLETIC FIELDS STUDY
City of Elk River, Minnesota DRAFT
DEMOGRAPHICS
The City of Elk River has grown signifi cantly since the 1970s and continues to grow steadily. The
City still has signifi cant buildable land and is projected to continue to add population for the
foreseeable future.
When DAAC was built, the City of Elk River was fewer than 9,000 people. The initial development
of OKAC and YAC occurred in the 1990s as the City grew from 11,143 to 16,447 and was about
half the size it currently is. In 2005 when YAC was expanded, the City was still under 20,000
people. Since then the City has added more than 6,000 residents and is anticipated to add at
least 2,300 more by 2035.
Sources: US Census, Elk River Comprehensive Plan, ESRI
-
5,000
10,000
15,000
20,000
25,000
30,000
1990 1995 2000 2005 2010 2015 2020 2025 2030 2035DAACOKACYACLJWPYAC expansionYEARPOPULATION (APPROX.)POPULATION CHANGE TO 2022 (APPROX.)POPULATION CHANGE TO 2035 (APPROX.)Building of Dave Anderson Athletic
Complex (DAAC)
<1985 9,000 17,400 19,700
Building of Youth Athletic Complex (YAC) 1997 15,000 11,400 13,700
Building of Oak Knoll Athletic Complex
(OKAC)
Early 1990s 13,000 13,400 15,700
Expansion of Youth Athletic Complex 2005 19,700 6,700 9,000
Renovations to Lion John Wiecht Park 2020 25,800 600 2,900
1 1 ELK RIVER PARKS & RECREATIONDRAFT
With regards to youth demographics, Elk River continues to add younger
residents. Since 2010, the youth population has grown by approximately 400
people. This is expected to continue to over 500 by 2027. Growth has largely
come in the 8-18 year olds rather than at the younger levels. This trend is
expected to shift somewhat to younger age levels leading the way, while the
older age groups stay stable or grow slightly. This slowdown in the teenage
demographics is a national trend, and not unique to Elk River.
This expanding age group in the 2022 to 2027 time frame will be reaching
athletic participation ages in the following 5-10 years, and athletic facility
demands are likely to grow even more then.
Sources: US Census, ESRI
AGE POP.
2010
POP.
2022
TREND
FROM
2010
TO
2022
COHORT
FROM
2010 TO
2022
POP.
2027
TREND
FROM
2022
TO
2027
COHORT
FROM
2022 TO
2027
<1 357 355 -2 378 23
1 342 346 4 366 20
2 390 388 -2 407 19
3 353 381 28 393 12
4 417 410 -7 423 13
5 385 384 -1 393 9 38
6 379 396 17 396 0 50
7 402 387 -15 389 2 1
8 367 390 23 384 -6 3
9 372 388 16 386 -2 -24
10 355 396 41 401 5 17
11 347 403 56 398 -5 2
12 355 390 35 33 397 7 10
13 345 386 41 44 393 7 3
14 338 376 38 -14 383 7 -5
15 351 391 40 38 383 -8 -13
16 345 367 22 -50 365 -2 -38
17 335 370 35 -15 372 2 -18
18 308 329 21 -50 337 8 -49
TOTALS 8853 9255 9371
“Since 2010, the youth population has
grown by approximately 400 people.
This is expected to continue to over
500 by 2027. This expanding age
group in the 2022 to 2027 time frame
will be reaching athletic participation
ages in the following 5-10 years, and
athletic facility demands are likely to
grow even more then.”
500
1 2 ATHLETIC FIELDS STUDY
City of Elk River, Minnesota DRAFT
FIELD RATIOS
In order to evaluate fi eld needs to ensure an adequate supply moving forward, fi eld to population
ratios are considered. This study is considering growth through 2035. The last major expansion of fi eld
space was in 2005 with the addition of full sized baseball and rectangle fi elds. This table examines how
the City stacks up now compared with after its most recent expansion and following projected growth
through 2035. The goal of the City should be to proactively meet current and future demand, rather
than remaining in “catch up” mode.
Generally, the study is evaluating competition level fi elds at the main facilities. Both City and
City+School numbers are considered. The prevalence of school use on specifi c fi elds also impacts
desired ratios as there is some overlap, but use may be limited for non-school athletics.
The surplus/ratio defi cit is a good starting point, but because of fl exibility and other options, this only
informs the recommendation strategies, instead of being a hard and fast rule.
FIELDS COMPETITION
LEVEL FIELDS
CURRENT
RATIO
1 FIELD/__
POP.
(26,400)
2005
RATIO
1 FIELD/__
POP.
(19,700)
DESIRED
RATIO
1 FIELD/__
POP.
2035 RATIO
1 FIELD/__ POP.
(28,659)
NO BUILD SCENARIO
SURPLUS/
DEFICIT
IN 2035
NO BUILD SCENARIO
CITY ONLY90/75 Baseball
Diamonds
3 8,800 6,567 7,500 9,553 Short 1
Softball/Youth
Baseball
11 2,400 1,791 2,000 2,605 Short 3-4
Rectangle Fields 5 5,280 3,940 3,000 5,732 Short 4-5
FIELDS COMPETITION
LEVEL FIELDS
CURRENT
RATIO
1 FIELD/__
POP.
(26,400)
2005
RATIO
1 FIELD/__
POP.
(19,700)
DESIRED
RATIO
1 FIELD/__
POP.
2035 RATIO
1 FIELD/__ POP.
(28,659)
NO BUILD SCENARIO
SURPLUS/
DEFICIT
IN 2035
NO BUILD SCENARIO
CITY + SCHOOLS90/75 Baseball
Diamonds
8 3,300 2,463 5,000 3,582 Extra 2
Softball/Youth
Baseball
24 1,100 821 1,000 1,194 Short 4-5
Rectangle Fields 22 1,200 895 1,000 1,303 Short 6-7
Sources: City of Elk River, HKGi, NRPA
How to Read A Box & Whisker Diagram
The chart used illustrates the data separated into quartiles, graphed with “0” at the location of the
wording “fewer fi elds”
The farthest right bar illustrates the minimum value of the communities considered.
The right side of the box illustrates the 25th percentile - 25% have fewer, 75% have more
The long bar illustrates the 50th percentile - half have fewer, half have more
The left side of the box illustrates the 75th percentile - 75% have fewer, 25% have more
The farthest left bar illustrates the maximum value of the communities considered.
The red circle illustrates where Elk River sits on the continuum
The red text tells which percentile Elk River is in (in the example, Elk River has more
fi elds that 28% of the communities, fewer than 78%)Fewer FieldsMore Fields1 / 8441 / 1,4131 / 4,1321 / 2,5301 / 1,910Elk River: 1 / 2,396 (28th Percentile)
13 ELK RIVER PARKS & RECREATIONDRAFTELK RIVERROGERS-OTSEGOANDOVERST. MICHAEL-ALBERTVILLECOON RAPIDSRAMSEYMONTICELLOANOKAZIMMERMANST. FRANCISBIG LAKEBECKERPopulation 26,359 35,068 33,428 26,754 64,519 30,178 14,106 17,615 6,538 8,264 11,178 5,065
CITY (OR CITIES) ONLYFull Sized or 13/14 Baseball
(Primarily 90’ or 75’ basepaths, typically, but not
always grass infi elds, fences beyond standard LL or
fastpitch softball dimensions)
300225152000
Population Per Field 8,786 13,377 32,260 6,036 14,106 3,523 3,269
Fewer FieldsMore FieldsSoftball and Youth Baseball
(Works for 60’ basepaths - includes fl ex fi elds,
skinned infi elds, adult softball fences/fastpitch
softball fences/no fences)
111427132213992266
Population Per Field 2,396 1,042 1,238 1,471 2,933 2,321 1,567 1,957 3,269 4,132 1,863
844 Fewer FieldsMore FieldsRectangle Fields
(Football/Lacrosse/Soccer)5172115227670123
Population Per Field 5,272 2,063 1,592 1,784 32,260 1,118 2,351
2,516 8,264 5,589 1,688 Fewer FieldsMore FieldsCITY AND SCHOOL DISTRICTFull Sized or 12/13 Baseball
(Primarily 90’ or 75’ basepaths, typically, but not
always grass infi elds, fences beyond standard LL or
fastpitch softball dimensions)
845445375422
Population Per Field 3,295 8,767 6,686 6,689 16,130 6,036 4,702 2,516 1,308 2,066 5,589 2,533
Fewer FieldsMore FieldsSoftball and Youth Baseball
(Works for 60’ basepaths - includes fl ex fi elds,
skinned infi elds, adult softball fences/fastpitch
softball fences/no fences)
24 26 41 33 47 17 23 13 7 10 12 12
Population Per Field 1,098 1,349 815 811 1,373 1,775 613 1,355 934 826 932 422
Fewer FieldsRectangle Fields
(Football/Lacrosse/Soccer)22 40 32 34 15 30 12 20 3 12 5 7
Population Per Field 1,198 877 1,045 787 4,301 1,006 1,176 881 2,179 689 2,236 724
Fewer FieldsMore Fields1 / 3,2691 / 7,88801 / 19,629Elk River: 1 / 8,786 (73rd Percentile)1 / 8441 / 1,4131 / 4,1321 / 2,5301 / 1,910Elk River: 1 / 2,396 (28th Percentile)1 / 1,1181 / 1,75901 / 6,0811 / 2,431Elk River: 1 / 5,272 (36th Percentile)1 / 1,3081 / 2,5281 / 16,1301 / 6,6861 / 5,146Elk River: 1 / 3,295 (63rd Percentile)1 / 4221 / 8141 / 1,7751 / 1,3501 / 933Elk River: 1 / 1,098 (36th Percentile)1 / 6891 / 8541 / 4,3011 / 1,4431 / 1,025Elk River: 1 / 1,198 (28th Percentile)
14 ATHLETIC FIELDS STUDY
City of Elk River, Minnesota DRAFT
PEER COMMUNITIES
Working from a review of fi elds in neighboring communities, this
study compares the number of fi elds on a per capita basis. Because
communities have diff erent approaches regarding what is provided
by the City vs. the School District, the study looks at both measures.
Although school district lines do not always mirror city limits, the
cities are the ones that are measured for population purposes.
FINDINGS
Elk River, both at a City and City+Schools level is ahead of the curve
when it comes to full sized baseball fi elds. This is also the most
volatile metric, as 5 of the 12 cities do not provide full sized fi elds,
while Ramsey and Anoka have 5 each.
Elk River is lagging behind neighboring communities in the provision
of softball & and youth baseball fi elds, as well as rectangle fi elds. This
remains the case even when accounting for School District facilities.
Similar to fi eld ratio analysis, peer comparisons are not perfect
(for example: some cities have stronger programs in specifi c sports
and need the extra fi elds), but they do help paint a picture of how
the community stacks up relative to their neighbors.
Elk
River
Becker
Monticello
Big
Lake
Otsego
Albertville
St. Michael Rogers
Saint Francis
Ramsey Andover
Coon
Rapids
Anoka
Zimmerman
• 11 Full-Sized
Baseball Fields
• 35 Softball and
Youth Baseball
Fields
• 27 Rectangular
Fields
15 ELK RIVER PARKS & RECREATIONDRAFT
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
70%
80%
90%
100%
April
Week 1
April
Week 2
April
Week 3
April
Week 4
May
Week 1
May
Week 2
May
Week 3
May
Week 4
May
Week 5
June
Week 1
June
Week 2
June
Week 3
June
Week 4
July
Week 1
July
Week 2
July
Week 3
July
Week 4
July
Week 5
Full Sized Baseball - Weekends
Used By Others Used By Youth Baseball Not Used
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
70%
80%
90%
100%
April
Week 1
April
Week 2
April
Week 3
April
Week 4
May
Week 1
May
Week 2
May
Week 3
May
Week 4
May
Week 5
June
Week 1
June
Week 2
June
Week 3
June
Week 4
July
Week 1
July
Week 2
July
Week 3
July
Week 4
July
Week 5
Full Sized Baseball - Weekdays
Used By Others Used By Youth Baseball Not Used
FULL SIZED BASEBALL FIELDS
The current baseball fi elds are well utilized, with little to no weekday capacity until July. In part this is due to heavy school use
of City facilities. One issue with this level of programming is that when late winters and rainouts, it becomes tough to make up
postponed games.
The two lighted 90’ fi elds at YAC are better than many surrounding communities, especially when compared to other secondary
fi elds (Hales is the primary).
RECOMMENDATIONS
• Resolve the issues surrounding Hales Field. Consider a partnership with the School District similar to the development of
softball fi elds at Lion John Wiecht Park to improve the facility. The school is already using signifi cant time on City fi elds.
• Develop a dedicated 75’ baseball fi eld with grass infi eld and appropriate outfi eld dimensions. This could be an upgrade to the
large ballfi eld at Oak Knoll (with the addition of lights) or be located as part of a future YAC expansion.
• Continue to maintain YAC 5 & 6 as high quality 90’ basepath fi elds.
• If additional demand exists beyond current use for weekday fi elds, particularly in May and June, consider doubling use by
having an early session and later session. This is more feasible as school users typically do not go very late unless there are
games.
• Continue to maintain additional fi elds that can fl ex in order to accommodate weather and tournament induced peaks in
demand.
Preferred 25% fi eld rest and recovery
Preferred 25% fi eld rest and recovery
16 ATHLETIC FIELDS STUDY
City of Elk River, Minnesota DRAFT
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
70%
80%
90%
100%
April
Week 1
April
Week 2
April
Week 3
April
Week 4
May
Week 1
May
Week 2
May
Week 3
May
Week 4
May
Week 5
June
Week 1
June
Week 2
June
Week 3
June
Week 4
July
Week 1
July
Week 2
July
Week 3
July
Week 4
July
Week 5
Small Sized Baseball/Softball - Weekdays
Used by Others Used by Youth Baseball Used by Youth Softball Not Used
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
70%
80%
90%
100%
April
Week 1
April
Week 2
April
Week 3
April
Week 4
May
Week 1
May
Week 2
May
Week 3
May
Week 4
May
Week 5
June
Week 1
June
Week 2
June
Week 3
June
Week 4
July
Week 1
July
Week 2
July
Week 3
July
Week 4
July
Week 5
Small Sized Baseball/Softball - Weekends
Used by Others Used by Youth Baseball Used by Youth Softball Not Used
SMALL SIZED BASEBALL/SOFTBALL FIELDS
Softball and youth baseball are both strong programs in the City of Elk River, and are using much of the available fi eld space in the
community. This extends from late April through July. While a small amount of capacity is shown for the weekdays, having a small
amount of buff er is helpful for rescheduling games.
There have been some questions from the community about whether the fi elds that are reserved are really being utilized, or if the
pricing structure simply incentivizes associations to reserve as much fi eld space as they can, even if they are not going to use it.
While it probably does occur, this does not appear to be the main driver limiting supply.
It is worth noting that the City does not have many fi elds with smaller fence dimensions. Only one at OKAC and the two softball
fi elds (which are prioritized to the schools) are at the smaller dimensions.
RECOMMENDATIONS
• When the Lion John Wiecht fi elds are being used for practice by the schools, schedule a second set of practices for youth
softball.
• Develop 1-2 dedicated 60’ baseball fi elds with grass infi elds. This could be an upgrade to the small ballfi eld at Oak Knoll (with the
addition of lights) or be located as part of a future YAC expansion.
• Continue to maintain YAC 1-4 as high quality small baseball/softball fi elds. If OKAC changes to a dedicated baseball facility,
increase availability for softball at YAC.
• Consider the development of an additional 3-4 small fi elds with 200-225’ fences in the long run (by 2035) to accommodate
growing and future demand.
• Improve facilities at DAAC to modernize the facility and improve user experience
-Permanent restrooms and upgrades to shelters/buildings
-Sleeves for 200’ fences or a diff erent temp fence system
-Netting at spectator areas
Preferred 25% fi eld rest and recovery
Preferred 25% fi eld rest and recovery
1 7 ELK RIVER PARKS & RECREATIONDRAFT
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
70%
80%
90%
100%
April May June July Aug Sept Oct
Rectangle Fields - Weekdays
Used by Others Used by Youth Lacrosse Used by Boreal Used by Tackle Football Used by Flag Football Not Used
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
70%
80%
90%
100%
April May June July Aug Sept Oct
Rectangle Fields - Weekends
Used by Others Used by Youth Lacrosse Used by Boreal Used by Tackle Football Used by Flag Football Not Used
RECTANGLE FIELDS
The rectangle fi elds (football, lacrosse, soccer) are slightly underutilized in Elk River during the spring and summer. While the
graphs above show limited use, that is somewhat helpful for resting fi elds. Boreal Soccer is a regional club and as such, uses fi elds
around the north metro. The club was started in 2020 and based on trends, it is likely to expand signifi cantly over the upcoming
years. This will likely come with additional demand beyond the limited current use.
The data shown is also for spring/summer and one of the larger users is a fall user in youth football, both with tackle and fl ag
football. While tackle football participation has dropped below the levels from 2015-2018, the numbers appear to have stabilized
for the time being. At the same time, fl ag football has expanded rapidly.
Lacrosse and football are both heavy users of the school fi elds as well, particularly for practices.
One of the primary issues with the City’s current fi eld situation is that there are very few rectangle fi elds if something happens to
one of them. If there is an issue with one of them, the City’s capacity becomes much smaller.
National trends suggest more rapid growth in demand for rectangle fi elds than diamonds, and the City is also lagging behind
many of its neighbors when it comes to the provision of rectangle fi elds.
RECOMMENDATIONS
• Consider the development of 3-4 fi elds over the long term (by 2035) to accommodate growing and future demand.
• Continue to limit access after weather events or long winters. With only 3 fi elds in the City’s system, having one go off line
due to being torn up would cause signifi cant issues.
• Explore bringing amenities to the fi eld at YAC similar to what has been constructed at the ballfi elds. If the expansion occurs, it
may be better to focus investments on support facilities in that area.
• While Kleiver is a reasonable overfl ow location for occasional needs, the parking and support facilities suggest the City should
not rely on it for regular programming.
Preferred 25% fi eld rest and recovery
Preferred 25% fi eld rest and recovery
1 8 ATHLETIC FIELDS STUDY
City of Elk River, Minnesota DRAFT
SOFTBALL
12400
12600
12800
13000
13200
13400
2013/2014 2014/2015 2015/2016 2016/2017 2017/2018 2018/2019# of ParticipantsYears
MN GIRLS SOFTBALL
PARTICIPATION
Girls Participation Linear (Girls Participation)
357500
359500
361500
363500
365500
367500
369500
2013/2014 2014/2015 2015/2016 2016/2017 2017/2018 2018/2019# of ParticipantsYears
NATIONAL GIRLS SOFTBALL
PARTICIPATION
Total Linear (Total)
STATE AND NATIONAL HIGH
SCHOOL PARTICIPATION RATES
ELK RIVER YOUTH ASSOCIATION
PARTICIPATION RATES
0
20
40
60
80
100
120
140
160
2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025
Softball Participation
Reported Projected (by Assn)
0
2
4
6
8
10
12
14
16
2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025
Softball Teams
Reported Projected (by Assn)
FINDINGS
Youth Softball is a steady to growing sport in Elk River. The association
anticipates strong growth. For the purposes of this study, the expectations are
tempered somewhat to a moderated growth, based on the association getting
its footing after separating from ROSA and continued demographic growth.
Adult softball has declined in popularity from a high in the late 1980s and early
1990s. This slide has continued as players age and there are more demands on
players’ time. It is unlikely that the trend will reverse. The long term viability of
continuing adult softball is in question.
In Elk River, there is the perception among softball players and families that
the program does not get access to some of the same fi elds as baseball. The
creation of two ballfi elds at Lion John Wiecht park has created a destination
with outstanding facilities. The School District does retain priority scheduling
on these fi elds for the high school teams.
DAAC is a solid facility, but at this point is showing its age. There are not
permanent restrooms at DAAC and the lighting and shelters are nearing the
point of needing to be replaced. Softball would like to see improvements
similar to those at YAC.
It is also worth noting that the two fi elds that are sized for fastpitch have
school district priority. Other smaller fi elds would be welcome for the
association.
19 ELK RIVER PARKS & RECREATIONDRAFT
BASEBALL
OVERALL
Baseball participation in Elk River has been declining slightly. The association is
optimistic about their opportunities to begin growing again. For the purposes
of this study, maintaining of existing numbers is assumed. There are also other
teams such as the VFW and Legion teams in Elk River.
The desire for fall ball is also growing and this would require additional fi eld
time during historically unprogrammed seasons. Additional use would
challenge the quality of the fi elds by putting them to use when they are
typically resting.
SMALL FIELDS
The City of Elk River does have a number of fl ex fi elds that can accommodate
younger baseball players on 60’ fi elds, the City does not have fi elds designed
for younger players. There are no grass infi eld ballfi elds, and most of the
skinned infi eld fi elds are at 285-315 foot outfi elds. The perception among
baseball users is that there are not enough fi elds, but this may be in part due
to recent construction projects and maintenance issues taking fi elds offl ine in
the past few years.
MIDDLE FIELDS
Providing dedicated baseball fi elds with grass infi elds for the 12-13 year old
teams is a challenge for Elk River, but also many other communities. This is a
challenging age because the 52’ mound/75’ basepaths are only used for this
specifi c age group. While a number of the skinned fi elds can accommodate
this, the baseball use always feels secondary, especially when the fence
dimensions are longer than desired.
FULL SIZED FIELDS
The City is home to more full sized baseball fi elds than many neighboring
communities, but the main critique tends to be with Hales Field. Hales Field
is the home fi eld of the high school, VFW, and Legion teams and is in need
of upgrades. Hale’s is not owned or operated by the City, but the proximity to
OKAC leads some to believe it is a City fi eld. Newer lights and dugouts at the
90’ fi elds at YAC have been a welcome addition.
13200
13300
13400
13500
13600
13700
13800
13900
2013/2014 2014/2015 2015/2016 2016/2017 2017/2018 2018/2019# of ParticipantsYears
MN BOYS BASEBALL
PARTICIPATION
Boys Participation Linear (Boys Participation)
475000
477000
479000
481000
483000
485000
487000
489000
491000
493000
495000
2013/2014 2014/2015 2015/2016 2016/2017 2017/2018 2018/2019# of ParticipantsYears
NATIONAL BOYS BASEBALL
PARTICIPATION
Total Linear (Total)
STATE AND NATIONAL HIGH
SCHOOL PARTICIPATION RATES
ELK RIVER YOUTH ASSOCIATION
PARTICIPATION RATES
0
100
200
300
400
500
600
700
2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025
Baseball Participants
Reported Projected (by Assn)
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025
Baseball Teams
Reported Projected (by Assn)
20 ATHLETIC FIELDS STUDY
City of Elk River, Minnesota DRAFT
FOOTBALL
FINDINGS
Tackle football has seen a reduction in the number of kids playing the game,
in large part due to information that emerged in the mid to late 2010s about
head injuries. What is unclear at this point is whether the trend will continue
to move downward, or if participation rates have now been set at a lower,
new normal. For the time being, it appears that numbers have stabilized in
Elk River. Eff orts have been made to make the game safer in the rules and
offi ciating, with the introduction of improving helmet technology, and the
invention of new forms of the game such as tacklebar. There has also been
rapid growth in the number of kids playing fl ag football.
That being said, tackle football remains the most popular high school sport
far outpacing soccer, baseball, basketball, and lacrosse for boys sports. At the
youth level there are still 3 participants for every 2 lacrosse players.
While participation rates for tackle football are down nationally, increases in
fl ag football will somewhat off set the drop in tackle. Elk River has historically
been strong in football and the ability of high school program to remain
strong will to some degree depend on the popularity of the sport at a youth
level.
As discussed above, fl ag football has been expanding, much more than
outpacing the rate at which tackle football has lost participants. The
association has been active since 2019 and that rapid growth has occurred,
even in spite of the pandemic. In 2022, the association had already reached
320 players which is the maximum number of players the association can
have. This is based on a 32 team cap with 10 players per team.
Unlike many other sports, football has not shifted as much into the “year
round” model. Some off season training and camps occur, but football remains
a primarily fall sport.
22800
23000
23200
23400
23600
23800
24000
2013/2014 2014/2015 2015/2016 2016/2017 2017/2018 2018/2019# of ParticipantsYears
MN BOYS FOOTBALL
PARTICIPATION
Boys Participation Linear (Boys Participation)
900000
950000
1000000
1050000
1100000
1150000
2013/2014 2014/2015 2015/2016 2016/2017 2017/2018 2018/2019# of ParticipantsYears
NATIONAL BOYS FOOTBALL
PARTICIPATION
Total Linear (Total)
STATE AND NATIONAL HIGH
SCHOOL PARTICIPATION RATES
ELK RIVER YOUTH ASSOCIATION
PARTICIPATION RATES
0
50
100
150
200
250
300
350
400
2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022
Tackle Football Participation
Reported Projected (by Assn)
0
50
100
150
200
250
300
350
2019 2020 2021 2022 2023
Flag Football Participation
Capped ParƟ cipaƟ on
No 2020
Season
(COVID)
No 2020
Season
(COVID)(COVID)
2 1 ELK RIVER PARKS & RECREATIONDRAFT
LACROSSE
FINDINGS
Lacrosse is no longer an upstart “new” sport, but is now an established activity.
With Elk River’s reputation as a hockey town, it is not surprising that lacrosse
has been popular here for some time, as the game and players often overlap.
Although hit hard by COVID, participation numbers appear to be returning to
pre-pandemic levels. The sport has not been a fast growing sport, but has had
relatively stable participation numbers for the few years before 2020.
In Minnesota, lacrosse can be a challenging sport to provide fi elds for
because of the spring season. When fi elds are in their freeze/thaw cycles
they are the most susceptible to damage. Lacrosse is a fast paced game with
lots of running and cutting that can tear up wet or thawing fi elds. When
fi eld conditions are deteriorated early in the season, it is very diffi cult to re-
establish turf and get them back to a playable standard at any point that year.
Lacrosse uses the rectangle fi eld at YAC, the fi elds at the High School/Middle
School complex, and the indoor turf space in the fi eldhouse.
ELK RIVER YOUTH ASSOCIATION
PARTICIPATION RATES
0
50
100
150
200
250
2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022
Lacrosse Participation
COVID Impacts
2800
3000
3200
3400
3600
3800
4000
2013/2014 2014/2015 2015/2016 2016/2017 2017/2018 2018/2019# of ParticipantsYears
MN BOYS LACROSSE
PARTICIPATION
Boys Participation Linear (Boys Participation)
102000
104000
106000
108000
110000
112000
114000
116000
2013/2014 2014/2015 2015/2016 2016/2017 2017/2018 2018/2019# of ParticipantsYears
NATIONAL BOYS LACROSSE
PARTICIPATION
Total Linear (Total)
3200
3400
3600
3800
4000
4200
2013/2014 2014/2015 2015/2016 2016/2017 2017/2018 2018/2019# of ParticipantsYears
MN GIRLS LACROSSE
PARTICIPATION
Girls Participation Linear (Girls Participation)
70000
75000
80000
85000
90000
95000
100000
105000
2013/2014 2014/2015 2015/2016 2016/2017 2017/2018 2018/2019# of ParticipantsYears
NATIONAL GIRLS LACROSSE
PARTICIPATION
Total Linear (Total)
STATE AND NATIONAL HIGH
SCHOOL PARTICIPATION RATES
22 ATHLETIC FIELDS STUDY
City of Elk River, Minnesota DRAFT
IMPLEMENTATION
PRIORITIZATION
When developing prioritization, actions can be evaluated by how
they improve the City’s system of athletic fi elds:
Does the action have positive safety implications?
The highest priority for the City should be actions that improve
safety outcomes. This includes things like netting, fi eld
maintenance, and provision of AEDs at fi elds.
Does the action improve capacity and address current or projected needs?
Actions such as the addition of lights and building new fi elds add
capacity to the system. The more recent addition of lights at YAC
have improved the capacity at those fi elds. An expansion at YAC
would have similar impacts.
Does the action strengthen the City’s operations and capacity for
funding?
Actions that create improvements for maintenance and operations
should be prioritized. The City has opted to consolidate fi elds in designated athletic facilities, rather than
dispersed around the community. The focus remains on providing fi elds in larger, consolidated locations
where maintenance can be streamlined and more effi cient. Other actions may strengthen the City’s
abilities to recruit and host tournaments (and increase fi eld rentals) or better position the City to pursue
other funding such as grants.
Does the action improve equitable distribution of resources between sports?
The City has done a great job of improving facilities for many of the youth athletic associations. If there are
sports that have not seen upgrades in some time, the priority should go to these sports over those that
have seen recent improvements and investments.
Does the action improve user experiences?
Elk River’s facilities provide varied user experiences. Upgrades at the YAC ballfi elds have been well
received, while a lack of toilets on the rectangle fi eld side or at DAAC remain a point of contention.
Elements such as appropriately sized fi elds, batting cages, shaded viewing areas, concessions, storage,
and parking go a long way to improving user experience.
TIMING
The study provides recommendations for the City of Elk River based on the identifi ed needs and desires
of the City and athletic associations. Some of these recommendations are easier to implement, others will
take some time to identify funding, design, and bring to fruition. Lastly, some of the recommendations
focus on strategy and programming and represent ongoing eff orts that are already underway.
23 ELK RIVER PARKS & RECREATIONDRAFT
QUESTIONS
ADDRESSED
SPORTS TIMING
FACILITIES
Install Netting at DAAC Wheel and consider backstop upgrades Safety Softball/
Baseball
0-3 Years
Install covered dugouts at DAAC Safety, Equitable
Distribution, User Experience
Softball/
Baseball
0-3 Years
Sleeve for and buy moveable 200' fencing for DAAC Equitable Distribution, User
Experience
Softball/
Baseball
0-3 Years
Develop Support Facilities at DAAC
(Shelters, restrooms, concessions, signage, parking/parking agreement)
Equitable Distribution, User
Experience
Softball/
Baseball
4-6 Years
Update Lighting and Irrigation at DAAC Capacity, Operations &
Funding
Softball/
Baseball
4-6 Years
Install netting at playground at YAC Safety, User Experience Softball/
Baseball
0-3 Years
Install Bleacher Protector system at YAC Safety, User Experience Softball/
Baseball
0-3 Years
Improve Facilities at YAC’s rectangle fi eld
(Restrooms, paved parking, concessions, storage)
*May be deferred to longer term expansion at YAC
Equitable Distribution, User
Experience
Football/
Lacrosse/
Soccer
4-6 years
Continue to make improvements at YAC regarding support facilities
(Pave parking, spectator seating at 5&6)
User Experience Softball/
Baseball
4-6 years
Convert OKAC 1 to a dedicated 75’ fi eld with grass infi eld Capacity, User Experience Baseball 0-3 Years
Convert OKAC 2 to a dedicated 60’ fi eld with grass infi eld Capacity, User Experience Baseball 0-3 Years
Improve support facilities at OKAC
(Storage, restrooms, concessions, signage)
User Experience, Equitable
Distribution
All 4-6 Years
Construction of 3-4 60’ basepath / 200-225’ fence ballfi elds and support
facilities
Capacity, Equitable
Distribution
Softball/
Baseball
7-13 Years
Construction of 3-4 rectangle fi elds and support facilities Capacity, Equitable
Distribution
Football/
Lacrosse/
Soccer
7-13 Years
OPERATIONS AND MAINTENANCE
Continue to protect fi elds after weather event or long winters Safety, Capacity, Operations
& Funding
All Ongoing
Maintain fl ex fi elds that can accommodate multiple sizes and user
groups
Capacity Softball/
Baseball
Ongoing
STRATEGY AND PROGRAMMING
Explore opportunities to have two time slots for programming fi elds,
especially in combination with school users
Capacity All Ongoing
Continue to actively pursue tournaments Operations & Funding, User
Experience
All Ongoing
Continue to evaluate the long term viability of Adult Softball Operations & Funding Softball Ongoing
Explore additional partnerships with the School District to fund
improvements
Capacity, Operations &
Funding
All Ongoing
Continue coordination with the School District to better share
scheduling/programming needs and fi nd additional capacity
Capacity, Operations &
Funding
All Ongoing
Resolve the issues surrounding ownership and maintenance of Hales
Field
User Experience Baseball 0-3 years
Continue to develop partnerships with outside events, clubs, camps,
and trainers to bring in additional funding
Capacity, Operations &
Funding
All Ongoing
ELK RIVER
ATHLETIC FIELDS STUDY