Updated Parks and Recreation Commission Meeting Packet 06-11-2025
Parks and Recreation Commission
Regular Meeting
&
Work Session
Agenda
Wednesday, June 11, 2025
6:30 PM
Elk River City Hall
▪ Regular meeting in Council Chambers
▪ Work Session meeting in Upper Town Conference Room immediately following regular meeting
1. CALL MEETING TO ORDER
2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
3. CONSIDER AGENDA
4. CONSIDER MINUTES
4.1 05-14-2025 Parks and Recreation Commission Minutes
5. OPEN FORUM
An opportunity to provide comments and feedback regarding items not on the agenda. Information provided in Open Forum
will not be discussed at this meeting; rather, the information will be referred to staff and/or scheduled for discussion at a
future meeting.
6. ACTION ITEMS
6.1 Elk River Trails Master Plan - Name Change
6.2 Kingdom Estates Fourth Addition - Park Dedication
6.3 Meadow Hills Simple Plat - Park Dedication
6.4 Oakwater Ridge - Park Dedication
7. RECREATION MANAGER UPDATE
7.1 Recreaton Manager Update
8. ANNOUNCEMENTS
9. MOTION TO ADJOURN REGULAR MEETING
10. WORK SESSION
Work Sessions are less formal meetings to encourage dialog. Official action or votes are not typically taken. At the
conclusion of a discussion, a simple consensus provides staff direction for execution of the item. This portion of the agenda
is audio recorded but not video recorded or broadcast. Work Sessions are open to the public; however, visitors who wish
to provide input must be invited by the presiding officer, assume a seat at the discussion table and provide their full name
and address for the official record.
10.1 Parks and Recreation Master Plan
10.2 Playground Plan
11. MOTION TO ADJOURN
Page 1 of 240
The Elk River Vision
A welcoming community with revolutionary and spirited resourcefulness, exceptional service, and community
engagement that encourages and inspires prosperity
Page 2 of 240
Meeting of the Elk River
Parks and Recreation Commission
Held at the Elk River City Hall
May 14, 2025
Members Present: Chair Dave Anderson, Commissioners Mike Niziolek, Joy Goodwin, Greg Loidolt,
Hal Stewart, Jill Varty
Members Absent: Melissa Fermoyle
Council Liaison: Councilmember Cory Grupa
Staff Present: Assistant City Administrator/Business Services Director Joe Stremcha, Parks and
Recreation Manager Jeff Shelby, Senior Administrative Assistant Dawn Larson
1. Call Meeting to Order
Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, the meeting of the Elk River Parks and Recreation
Commission was called to order at 6:30 p.m. by Chair Anderson.
2. Pledge of Allegiance
3. Consider Agenda
Moved by Commissioner Loidolt and seconded by Commissioner Varty to approve the May
14, 2025, agenda. Motion carried 6-0.
4. Consider Minutes
4.1 Parks and Recreation Commission Meeting Minutes 4-9-2025
Moved by Commissioner Stewart and seconded by Commissioner Goodwin to approve April
9, 2025, Parks and Recreation Commission Minutes. Motion carried 6-0.
5. Open Forum
6. Presentations, Awards, and Recognition
6.1 Archery Deer Hunt Steward
Mr. Shelby presented his report. Mr. Becklin introduced himself and read the report that he provided
to Chair Anderson and Mr. Shelby. He shared that first-time hunters have gotten to participate in the
hunt. Chair Anderson explained that every time a hunter enters or exits the park, they send a text
message to Mr. Becklin and that Mr. Becklin assists with any issues that arise during the hunt.
Commissioner Goodwin asked how they chose the threshold of 24 hunters. Mr. Becklin explained
that they rotate in alternates if the first hunters get a deer or decide to stop hunting early. Chair
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Parks and Recreation Commission Minutes Page 2
May 14, 2025
Anderson explained that the current number of hunters is based on spacing them out within the parks
to encourage a successful hunt.
Chair Anderson and Mr. Becklin explained that they changed the Archery Hunt Program to just
include Elk River residents. Hunters are allowed to use cross bows, and deer stands during the season.
Commissioner Niziolek asked how the deer herd is being controlled. Mr. Becklin shared that for the
first time a deer was shot in each park during the hunt.
7. Action Items
7.1 Villas at Fillmore 3rd Addition-Park Dedication
Mr. Shelby presented his report.
Moved by Commissioner Niziolek and seconded by Commissioner Loidolt to approve park
dedication for The Villas at Fillmore Third Addition to be paid in cash, at the applicable rate
at the time of recording, for six single-family parcels. Motion carried 6-0.
8. Discussion Items
8.1 Disc Golf Course-Burr Oak Park
Mr. Shelby presented his report.
Tim Schreder, an Otsego resident, was in attendance to check on the status of Burr Oak Park as a disc
golf course option. Last week, Mr. Schreder and another disc golfer walked the property, and, in his
opinion, Burr Oak Park is still a viable option.
Mr. Schreder asked for clarification if he could park on the road and disc golf out at the park without
an official course or parking lot. Commissioner Niziolek asked what the status of the housing
development going in next to the park was. Mr. Shelby and Mr. Stremcha shared that they were not
sure at this time.
Mr. Schreder said that many disc golfers in the area are traveling further away because there is not
anything currently in the Elk River and Rogers area. Commissioner Goodwin said she thinks it would
be a good litmus test for them to try to run a course there. Commissioner Loidolt said he is all for this
because he thinks it would be a great amenity for Elk River.
Mr. Schreder mentioned that he has experience with developing disc golf courses as well as having
worked with Tim Mackey who is a local course developer. Mr. Schreder said there are portable tees
that disc golfers can use if they do not have a real course yet. Chair Anderson asked if Mr. Schreder
would be willing to try this for a season. Mr. Schreder agreed that he would like to try several times
and see how it goes, reporting back to the commission on his experience later in the summer. He
would ideally like to create an Elk River disc golf club even if there is not an official disc course in the
city.
Mr. Shelby said that he has had park maintenance out at the park this week and they believe it would
be a possibility to have disc golf at the park. Commissioner Loidolt confirmed that the park right now
is just sitting there not being used and this would give it a purpose. Chair Anderson said that putting
Page 4 of 240
Parks and Recreation Commission Minutes Page 3
May 14, 2025
in an official disc golf course at Burr Oak Park would have to be an approved budgeted expense out
of the park improvement fund.
Mr. Shelby agreed. Chair Anderson said that Burr Oak Park is a hostile environment, and he
suggested that Mr. Schreder experience an entire season disc golfing out there to see how the terrain
changes into late August. Chair Anderson said that it would be important for the group to hear Mr.
Schreder’s report at the end of the summer.
Commissioner Goodwin said if the user group really enjoys the experience, then the commission
could look at moving forward with the development of disc golf at the park. Mr. Stremcha said the
budget preparation for 2026 starts in the summer. Parks Maintenance staff can provide cost estimates
for installing a disc golf course and Mr. Schreder’s evaluation from the summer usage experience will
provide feedback for budget discussion on what it would take for course development.
Mr. Schreder explained where the fairway would be. Chair Anderson asked if there would be an
expectation that the trails would be mowed. Mr. Schreder said only in the prairie areas. He also shared
that more courses now tend to be temporary, and they use turf around the tee’s so they can move
them. He said that most parks have concrete tees. He sees a trend of a lot of natural tees so that it is
less invasive and permanent and always change.
Chair Anderson asked if a report in August would be too early or late. Mr. Stremcha said that August
would be perfect if the testing happened in June and July and then Mr. Schreder came back in August
with a report. Commissioner Niziolek asked what staff is planning to do with management of that
property as far as buckthorn. Mr. Shelby said that would be a park maintenance piece that would be
considered based on what happens out there. He said there is nothing in place now since the park is
not being used. Commissioner Niziolek said he thinks a landscape management plan should be in
place now before a disc golf course. Chair Anderson said it could be done simultaneously.
9. Parks and Recreation Manager Update
9.1 Parks and Recreation Manager Update
Mr. Shelby presented his report.
10. Announcements.
Commissioner Loidolt requested to add an action item on the June agenda to change the Trails
Master plan to the Trails Framework plan to stay in the same line of wording as the Facilities
Framework plan.
11. Adjourn Meeting
Moved by Commissioner Goodwin and seconded by Commissioner Loidolt to adjourn the
meeting of the Parks and Recreation Commission at 7:00pm. Motion carried 6-0.
Page 5 of 240
Parks and Recreation Commission Minutes Page 4
May 14, 2025
Minutes prepared by Dawn Larson.
___________________
Dave Anderson, Chair
___________________
Tina Allard, City Clerk
Page 6 of 240
The Elk River Vision
A welcoming community with revolutionary and spirited resourcefulness, exceptional service, and community
engagement that encourages and inspires prosperity
Request for Action
To
Parks and Recreation Commission
Item Number
6.1
Meeting Date
June 11, 2025
Prepared By
Jeff Shelby, Recreation Manager
Item Description
Elk River Trails Master Plan - Name Change
Reviewed by
Jeff Shelby
Joe Stremcha
Action Requested
Recommend, by motion, changing the name of the Elk River Trails Master Plan to Elk River Trails Framework
Plan.
Background/Discussion
In 2024, the Athletic Fields Master Plan was formally changed to the Athletic Fields Framework Plan. The
commission believed that title better reflected the nature and spirit of the document. Commissioner Loidolt
has requested that the commission consider changing the name of the Elk River Trails Master Plan to the Elk
River Trails Framework Plan. He suggests that it will provide similar flexibility within the plan and be
consistent across other Parks and Recreation planning materials.
Financial Impact
None
Mission/Policy/Goal
Meet changing needs - agile.
Attachments
None
Page 7 of 240
The Elk River Vision
A welcoming community with revolutionary and spirited resourcefulness, exceptional service, and community
engagement that encourages and inspires prosperity
Request for Action
To
Parks and Recreation Commission
Item Number
6.2
Meeting Date
June 11, 2025
Prepared By
Jeff Shelby, Recreation Manager
Item Description
Kingdom Estates Fourth Addition - Park Dedication
Reviewed by
Jeff Shelby
Joe Stremcha
Action Requested
Recommend, by motion, park dedication for Kingdom Estates Fourth Addition be paid in cash for one single
family parcel, at the applicable rate at the time of recording and a trail easement be placed on the property
along the entire Olson Street side of the parcel.
Background/Discussion
The subject property is a 2.51-acre parcel located north of County Road 33 on Olson Street and is zoned
Single Family Residential (R1a), which establishes a minimum lot size requirement of 2.5 acres. The applicant is
proposing a simple plat to convert Outlot A of Kingdom Estates Third Addition into a buildable lot.
The Outlot was not subject to park dedication when originally platted and now that it is being platted, it is
subject to park dedication requirements for a single parcel.
A review of the Parks and Recreation Trail Master Plan indicates that there is a desire for a trail connection
within the subject property. Staff recommends the Parks and Recreation Commission recommend to City
Council that a trail easement be placed on the property along the entire Olson Street side of the parcel. The
final easement width will be determined by the City Council and staff.
Financial Impact
Cash to be paid into the Park Dedication Fund.
Mission/Policy/Goal
Opportunity to live, work, and play.
Attachments
1. P 25-13 Location Map
2. P 25-13 Plat
3. Trails
Page 8 of 240
Page 9 of 240
∆∆∆OUTLOT A
Olson St. NW1
City of Elk River, Sherburne County, MinnesotaStephanie ZaczkowskiOUTLOT A, KINGDOMESTATES THIRD ADDITIONCertificate of Survey11Page 10 of 240
Page 11 of 240
The Elk River Vision
A welcoming community with revolutionary and spirited resourcefulness, exceptional service, and community
engagement that encourages and inspires prosperity
Request for Action
To
Parks and Recreation Commission
Item Number
6.3
Meeting Date
June 11, 2025
Prepared By
Jeff Shelby, Recreation Manager
Item Description
Meadow Hills Simple Plat - Park Dedication
Reviewed by
Jeff Shelby
Joe Stremcha
Action Requested
Recommend, by motion, park dedication for Meadow Hills be paid in cash for two single family parcels, at the
applicable rate at the time of recording.
Background/Discussion
The subject property is zoned Single Family Residential (R1a), which establishes a minimum lot size
requirement of 2.5 acres. The applicant is proposing a simple plat to subdivide the approximately 10-acre
parcel into three lots of comparable size. Vehicular access to each of the proposed parcels will be provided
via Meadowvale Road.
Based on current land use regulations, two of the proposed parcels are subject to park dedication
requirements. A review of the Parks and Recreation Trail Master Plan indicates that there are no planned
trails or trail connections within the subject property. Therefore, no trail dedication is required as part of this
subdivision.
Financial Impact
Cash to be paid into the Park Dedication Fund.
Mission/Policy/Goal
Opportunity to live, work, and play.
Attachments
1. P 25-16 Location Map
2. P 25-16 Plat
3. Trails
Page 12 of 240
Page 13 of 240
MEADOWVALE ROADLot 1Lot 2Lot 3Block 1∆∆NO. 32)(A.K.A.COUNTYHIGHWAY∆∆∆Sherburne County, MNVICINITY MAPSec. 19, Twp. 33, Rng. 26 19SITEPage 14 of 240
SITE
Road Name
Page 15 of 240
The Elk River Vision
A welcoming community with revolutionary and spirited resourcefulness, exceptional service, and community
engagement that encourages and inspires prosperity
Request for Action
To
Parks and Recreation Commission
Item Number
6.4
Meeting Date
June 11, 2025
Prepared By
Jeff Shelby, Recreation Manager
Item Description
Oakwater Ridge - Park Dedication
Reviewed by
Jeff Shelby
Joe Stremcha
Action Requested
Recommend, by motion, park dedication for Oakwater Ridge, consistent with the following conditions, and
consistent with the City Council action on April 7, 2025:
1. The developer shall complete the design and installation of all 10-foot-wide trails above the bluff.
2. The developer will design and engineer a 10-foot-wide trail, beginning with the termination of the upland
trail. They shall be provided to the city to support a future construction project.
3. The developer will provide a 2+ acre bluff top park, and must provide documentation that there is at least
1-acre of buildable, upland area, within the park.
4. The developer shall dedicate the floodway land, below the bluff, to the city for park purposes. An outlot
will be reserved for future use by the HOA.
5. The remainder of the park dedication requirements will be satisfied with a cash dedication of $536,000.
This will be pro-rated on a per lot basis and payable with the final plat.
6. Civil plans must identify parallel, off-street, parking areas near the bluff top park.
Background/Discussion
Earlier this year, the Park and Recreation Commission and the City Council reviewed a residential Planned
Unit Development (PUD) for the Specht Farm. The project was reviewed by Park and Rec Commission on
three separate meetings and the City Council also held multiple work sessions where the park and trail
system included in the PUD plan was discussed in detail.
Capstone Homes has submitted a preliminary plat application for the first phase of the subdivision, to be
known as Oakwater Ridge. The preliminary plat is consistent with the council-approved PUD plans and
includes the trails and land dedication approved by Council. Construction of the trails will take place in
phases, as the property is platted.
Financial Impact
Cash to be paid into the Park Dedication Fund.
Mission/Policy/Goal
Opportunity to live, work, and play. Support the growth and development of the community.
Page 16 of 240
Attachments
1. P 25-14 Location Map
2. P 25-14 Oakwater Ridge Preliminary Plat and Plans
Page 17 of 240
Page 18 of 240
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MISSISSIPPI RIVERYALE STREETOWNER:OWNER:OWNER:OWNER:OWNER:U.S. HIGHWAY NO. 10off:\jobs\9541 - 9560\9556 - specht farm - elk river\cad c3d\survey\preliminary\9556_excon.dwgSave Date:05/22/25DRAWN BY:ISSUE DATE:FILE NO:EXISTING CONDITIONSRevisions:Thomas R. Balluff, L.S.I hereby certify that this survey, planor report was prepared by me or under mydirect supervision and that I am a dulyLicensed Land Surveyor underthe laws of the State of MinnesotaPrint Name:Signature:Date:License #:5/23/2540361373bjs5/23/252755167TH AVENUE N.W.U.S. HIGHWAY NO. 10(A.K.A. HIGHWAY NO. 52 & 169)LEGENDYALE STREETYALE STREET170THAVE. N.W.YALE COURTOWNER:OWNER:OWNER:OWNER:OWNER:OWNER:OWNER:OWNER:OWNER:OWNER:OWNER:OWNER:OWNER:OWNER:OWNER:OWNER:OWNER:OWNER:OWNER:OWNER:OWNER:OWNER:OWNER:OWNER:OWNER:OWNER:OWNER:OWNER:OWNER:OWNER:OWNER:ELK RIVER 648-1 LAND, LLC14015 Sunfish Lake Blvd. NW, Suite 400Ramsey, MN 55303OAKWATER RIDGEPreliminary Plat IElk River, MN222333Page 21 of 240
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STREET BSTREET FSTREET F STREET HSTREET P-SSTREET Coff:\jobs\9541 - 9560\9556 - specht farm - elk river\cad c3d\survey\preliminary\9556_preplat-insets.dwgSave Date:05/22/25DRAWN BY:ISSUE DATE:FILE NO:PRELIMINARY PLATRevisions:Thomas R. Balluff, L.S.I hereby certify that this survey, planor report was prepared by me or under mydirect supervision and that I am a dulyLicensed Land Surveyor underthe laws of the State of MinnesotaPrint Name:Signature:Date:License #:403613711NPC2755ELK RIVER 648-1 LAND, LLC14015 Sunfish Lake Blvd. NW, Suite 400Ramsey, MN 55303OAKWATER RIDGEPreliminary Plat IElk River, MN5/23/255/23/25STREET GPage 29 of 240
OWNER:STREET DSTREET ESTREET ESTREET Coff:\jobs\9541 - 9560\9556 - specht farm - elk river\cad c3d\survey\preliminary\9556_preplat-insets.dwgSave Date:05/22/25DRAWN BY:ISSUE DATE:FILE NO:PRELIMINARY PLATRevisions:Thomas R. Balluff, L.S.I hereby certify that this survey, planor report was prepared by me or under mydirect supervision and that I am a dulyLicensed Land Surveyor underthe laws of the State of MinnesotaPrint Name:Signature:Date:License #:403613712NPC2755MISSISSIPPI RIVERELK RIVER 648-1 LAND, LLC14015 Sunfish Lake Blvd. NW, Suite 400Ramsey, MN 55303OAKWATER RIDGEPreliminary Plat IElk River, MN5/23/255/23/25Page 30 of 240
off:\jobs\9541 - 9560\9556 - specht farm - elk river\cad c3d\survey\preliminary\9556_preplat-insets.dwgSave Date:05/22/25DRAWN BY:ISSUE DATE:FILE NO:PRELIMINARY PLATRevisions:Thomas R. Balluff, L.S.I hereby certify that this survey, planor report was prepared by me or under mydirect supervision and that I am a dulyLicensed Land Surveyor underthe laws of the State of MinnesotaPrint Name:Signature:Date:License #:403613713NPC2755OWNER:ELK RIVER 648-1 LAND, LLC14015 Sunfish Lake Blvd. NW, Suite 400Ramsey, MN 55303OAKWATER RIDGEPreliminary Plat IElk River, MN5/23/255/23/25Page 31 of 240
OWNER:STREET P-Soff:\jobs\9541 - 9560\9556 - specht farm - elk river\cad c3d\survey\preliminary\9556_preplat-insets.dwgSave Date:05/22/25DRAWN BY:ISSUE DATE:FILE NO:PRELIMINARY PLATRevisions:Thomas R. Balluff, L.S.I hereby certify that this survey, planor report was prepared by me or under mydirect supervision and that I am a dulyLicensed Land Surveyor underthe laws of the State of MinnesotaPrint Name:Signature:Date:License #:403613714NPC2755ELK RIVER 648-1 LAND, LLC14015 Sunfish Lake Blvd. NW, Suite 400Ramsey, MN 55303OAKWATER RIDGEPreliminary Plat IElk River, MN5/23/255/23/25Page 32 of 240
STREET P-SSTREET P-Soff:\jobs\9541 - 9560\9556 - specht farm - elk river\cad c3d\survey\preliminary\9556_preplat-insets.dwgSave Date:05/22/25DRAWN BY:ISSUE DATE:FILE NO:PRELIMINARY PLATRevisions:Thomas R. Balluff, L.S.I hereby certify that this survey, planor report was prepared by me or under mydirect supervision and that I am a dulyLicensed Land Surveyor underthe laws of the State of MinnesotaPrint Name:Signature:Date:License #:403613715NPC2755ELK RIVER 648-1 LAND, LLC14015 Sunfish Lake Blvd. NW, Suite 400Ramsey, MN 55303OAKWATER RIDGEPreliminary Plat IElk River, MN5/23/255/23/25STREET GPage 33 of 240
ELK RIVER 648-1 LAND, LLC14015 Sunfish Lake Blvd. NW, Suite 400Ramsey, MN 55303ofOAKWATER RIDGEPreliminary Plat IElk River, MNf:\jobs\9541 - 9560\9556 - specht farm - elk river\cad c3d\engineering\preliminary\phase i\9556_removals.dwgSave Date:05/21/2537Revisions:1.Print Name:Signature:Date:License #:Drawn:Designed:Date:I hereby certify that this plan, specificationor report was prepared by me or under mydirect supervision and that I am a dulyLicensed Professional Engineer underthe laws of the State of Minnesota05/23/2505/23/25Brian J. Krystofiak, P.E.25063BJK#9556LC/KRO/NJPREMOVALS PLAN16Page 34 of 240
ELK RIVER 648-1 LAND, LLC14015 Sunfish Lake Blvd. NW, Suite 400Ramsey, MN 55303ofOAKWATER RIDGEPreliminary Plat IElk River, MNf:\jobs\9541 - 9560\9556 - specht farm - elk river\cad c3d\engineering\preliminary\phase i\9556_removals.dwgSave Date:05/21/2537Revisions:1.Print Name:Signature:Date:License #:Drawn:Designed:Date:I hereby certify that this plan, specificationor report was prepared by me or under mydirect supervision and that I am a dulyLicensed Professional Engineer underthe laws of the State of Minnesota05/23/2505/23/25Brian J. Krystofiak, P.E.25063BJK#9556LC/KRO/NJPREMOVALS PLAN17Page 35 of 240
ELK RIVER 648-1 LAND, LLC14015 Sunfish Lake Blvd. NW, Suite 400Ramsey, MN 55303ofOAKWATER RIDGEPreliminary Plat IElk River, MNf:\jobs\9541 - 9560\9556 - specht farm - elk river\cad c3d\engineering\preliminary\phase i\9556_site.dwgSave Date:05/21/2537Revisions:1.Print Name:Signature:Date:License #:Drawn:Designed:Date:I hereby certify that this plan, specificationor report was prepared by me or under mydirect supervision and that I am a dulyLicensed Professional Engineer underthe laws of the State of Minnesota05/23/2505/23/25Brian J. Krystofiak, P.E.25063BJK#9556LC/KRO/NJPPRELIMINARY SITE &UTILITY PLAN INDEX18SHEET 19SHEET 20SHEET 20
SHEET 21
SHEET 19
SHEET 20
SHEET 20
SHEET 21 SITE PLAN LEGENDPage 36 of 240
ELK RIVER 648-1 LAND, LLC14015 Sunfish Lake Blvd. NW, Suite 400Ramsey, MN 55303ofOAKWATER RIDGEPreliminary Plat IElk River, MNf:\jobs\9541 - 9560\9556 - specht farm - elk river\cad c3d\engineering\preliminary\phase i\9556_site.dwgSave Date:05/21/2537Revisions:1.Print Name:Signature:Date:License #:Drawn:Designed:Date:I hereby certify that this plan, specificationor report was prepared by me or under mydirect supervision and that I am a dulyLicensed Professional Engineer underthe laws of the State of Minnesota05/23/2505/23/25Brian J. Krystofiak, P.E.25063BJK#9556LC/KRO/NJPPRELIMINARY SITE &UTILITY PLAN19Page 37 of 240
ELK RIVER 648-1 LAND, LLC14015 Sunfish Lake Blvd. NW, Suite 400Ramsey, MN 55303ofOAKWATER RIDGEPreliminary Plat IElk River, MNf:\jobs\9541 - 9560\9556 - specht farm - elk river\cad c3d\engineering\preliminary\phase i\9556_site.dwgSave Date:05/21/2537Revisions:1.Print Name:Signature:Date:License #:Drawn:Designed:Date:I hereby certify that this plan, specificationor report was prepared by me or under mydirect supervision and that I am a dulyLicensed Professional Engineer underthe laws of the State of Minnesota05/23/2505/23/25Brian J. Krystofiak, P.E.25063BJK#9556LC/KRO/NJPPRELIMINARY SITE &UTILITY PLAN20Page 38 of 240
ELK RIVER 648-1 LAND, LLC14015 Sunfish Lake Blvd. NW, Suite 400Ramsey, MN 55303ofOAKWATER RIDGEPreliminary Plat IElk River, MNf:\jobs\9541 - 9560\9556 - specht farm - elk river\cad c3d\engineering\preliminary\phase i\9556_site.dwgSave Date:05/21/2537Revisions:1.Print Name:Signature:Date:License #:Drawn:Designed:Date:I hereby certify that this plan, specificationor report was prepared by me or under mydirect supervision and that I am a dulyLicensed Professional Engineer underthe laws of the State of Minnesota05/23/2505/23/25Brian J. Krystofiak, P.E.25063BJK#9556LC/KRO/NJPPRELIMINARY SITE &UTILITY PLAN21f u
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ELK RIVER 648-1 LAND, LLC14015 Sunfish Lake Blvd. NW, Suite 400Ramsey, MN 55303ofOAKWATER RIDGEPreliminary Plat IElk River, MNf:\jobs\9541 - 9560\9556 - specht farm - elk river\cad c3d\engineering\preliminary\grading\9556_gr.dwgSave Date:05/22/2537Revisions:1.Print Name:Signature:Date:License #:Drawn:Designed:Date:I hereby certify that this plan, specificationor report was prepared by me or under mydirect supervision and that I am a dulyLicensed Professional Engineer underthe laws of the State of Minnesota05/23/2505/23/25Brian J. Krystofiak, P.E.25063BJK#9556LC/KRO/NJPKEY2624252729283031322333GRADING INDEX22SHEET 23SHEET 24SHEET 25SHEET 26SHEET 27SHEET 28SHEET 30SHEET 29SHEET 31SHEET 32SHEET 33Page 40 of 240
ELK RIVER 648-1 LAND, LLC14015 Sunfish Lake Blvd. NW, Suite 400Ramsey, MN 55303ofOAKWATER RIDGEPreliminary Plat IElk River, MNf:\jobs\9541 - 9560\9556 - specht farm - elk river\cad c3d\engineering\preliminary\grading\9556_gr.dwgSave Date:05/22/2537Revisions:1.Print Name:Signature:Date:License #:Drawn:Designed:Date:I hereby certify that this plan, specificationor report was prepared by me or under mydirect supervision and that I am a dulyLicensed Professional Engineer underthe laws of the State of Minnesota05/23/2505/23/25Brian J. Krystofiak, P.E.25063BJK#9556LC/KRO/NJPKEY2624252729283031322333PRELIMINARY GRADING& EROSION CONTROL PLAN24Page 41 of 240
ELK RIVER 648-1 LAND, LLC14015 Sunfish Lake Blvd. NW, Suite 400Ramsey, MN 55303ofOAKWATER RIDGEPreliminary Plat IElk River, MNf:\jobs\9541 - 9560\9556 - specht farm - elk river\cad c3d\engineering\preliminary\grading\9556_gr.dwgSave Date:05/22/2537Revisions:1.Print Name:Signature:Date:License #:Drawn:Designed:Date:I hereby certify that this plan, specificationor report was prepared by me or under mydirect supervision and that I am a dulyLicensed Professional Engineer underthe laws of the State of Minnesota05/23/2505/23/25Brian J. Krystofiak, P.E.25063BJK#9556LC/KRO/NJPKEY2624252729283031322333PRELIMINARY GRADING& EROSION CONTROL PLAN25Page 42 of 240
ELK RIVER 648-1 LAND, LLC14015 Sunfish Lake Blvd. NW, Suite 400Ramsey, MN 55303ofOAKWATER RIDGEPreliminary Plat IElk River, MNf:\jobs\9541 - 9560\9556 - specht farm - elk river\cad c3d\engineering\preliminary\grading\9556_gr.dwgSave Date:05/22/2537Revisions:1.Print Name:Signature:Date:License #:Drawn:Designed:Date:I hereby certify that this plan, specificationor report was prepared by me or under mydirect supervision and that I am a dulyLicensed Professional Engineer underthe laws of the State of Minnesota05/23/2505/23/25Brian J. Krystofiak, P.E.25063BJK#9556LC/KRO/NJPKEY2624252729283031322333PRELIMINARY GRADING& EROSION CONTROL PLAN27Page 43 of 240
ELK RIVER 648-1 LAND, LLC14015 Sunfish Lake Blvd. NW, Suite 400Ramsey, MN 55303ofOAKWATER RIDGEPreliminary Plat IElk River, MNf:\jobs\9541 - 9560\9556 - specht farm - elk river\cad c3d\engineering\preliminary\grading\9556_gr.dwgSave Date:05/22/2537Revisions:1.Print Name:Signature:Date:License #:Drawn:Designed:Date:I hereby certify that this plan, specificationor report was prepared by me or under mydirect supervision and that I am a dulyLicensed Professional Engineer underthe laws of the State of Minnesota05/23/2505/23/25Brian J. Krystofiak, P.E.25063BJK#9556LC/KRO/NJPKEY2624252729283031322333PRELIMINARY GRADING& EROSION CONTROL PLAN26Page 44 of 240
ELK RIVER 648-1 LAND, LLC14015 Sunfish Lake Blvd. NW, Suite 400Ramsey, MN 55303ofOAKWATER RIDGEPreliminary Plat IElk River, MNf:\jobs\9541 - 9560\9556 - specht farm - elk river\cad c3d\engineering\preliminary\grading\9556_gr.dwgSave Date:05/22/2537Revisions:1.Print Name:Signature:Date:License #:Drawn:Designed:Date:I hereby certify that this plan, specificationor report was prepared by me or under mydirect supervision and that I am a dulyLicensed Professional Engineer underthe laws of the State of Minnesota05/23/2505/23/25Brian J. Krystofiak, P.E.25063BJK#9556LC/KRO/NJPKEY2624252729283031322333PRELIMINARY GRADING& EROSION CONTROL PLAN28Page 45 of 240
ELK RIVER 648-1 LAND, LLC14015 Sunfish Lake Blvd. NW, Suite 400Ramsey, MN 55303ofOAKWATER RIDGEPreliminary Plat IElk River, MNf:\jobs\9541 - 9560\9556 - specht farm - elk river\cad c3d\engineering\preliminary\grading\9556_gr.dwgSave Date:05/22/2537Revisions:1.Print Name:Signature:Date:License #:Drawn:Designed:Date:I hereby certify that this plan, specificationor report was prepared by me or under mydirect supervision and that I am a dulyLicensed Professional Engineer underthe laws of the State of Minnesota05/23/2505/23/25Brian J. Krystofiak, P.E.25063BJK#9556LC/KRO/NJPKEY2624252729283031322333PRELIMINARY GRADING& EROSION CONTROL PLAN29Page 46 of 240
ELK RIVER 648-1 LAND, LLC14015 Sunfish Lake Blvd. NW, Suite 400Ramsey, MN 55303ofOAKWATER RIDGEPreliminary Plat IElk River, MNf:\jobs\9541 - 9560\9556 - specht farm - elk river\cad c3d\engineering\preliminary\grading\9556_gr.dwgSave Date:05/22/2537Revisions:1.Print Name:Signature:Date:License #:Drawn:Designed:Date:I hereby certify that this plan, specificationor report was prepared by me or under mydirect supervision and that I am a dulyLicensed Professional Engineer underthe laws of the State of Minnesota05/23/2505/23/25Brian J. Krystofiak, P.E.25063BJK#9556LC/KRO/NJPKEY2624252729283031322333PRELIMINARY GRADING& EROSION CONTROL PLAN30Page 47 of 240
ELK RIVER 648-1 LAND, LLC14015 Sunfish Lake Blvd. NW, Suite 400Ramsey, MN 55303ofOAKWATER RIDGEPreliminary Plat IElk River, MNf:\jobs\9541 - 9560\9556 - specht farm - elk river\cad c3d\engineering\preliminary\grading\9556_gr.dwgSave Date:05/22/2537Revisions:1.Print Name:Signature:Date:License #:Drawn:Designed:Date:I hereby certify that this plan, specificationor report was prepared by me or under mydirect supervision and that I am a dulyLicensed Professional Engineer underthe laws of the State of Minnesota05/23/2505/23/25Brian J. Krystofiak, P.E.25063BJK#9556LC/KRO/NJPKEY2624252729283031322333PRELIMINARY GRADING& EROSION CONTROL PLAN31Page 48 of 240
ELK RIVER 648-1 LAND, LLC14015 Sunfish Lake Blvd. NW, Suite 400Ramsey, MN 55303ofOAKWATER RIDGEPreliminary Plat IElk River, MNf:\jobs\9541 - 9560\9556 - specht farm - elk river\cad c3d\engineering\preliminary\grading\9556_gr.dwgSave Date:05/22/2537Revisions:1.Print Name:Signature:Date:License #:Drawn:Designed:Date:I hereby certify that this plan, specificationor report was prepared by me or under mydirect supervision and that I am a dulyLicensed Professional Engineer underthe laws of the State of Minnesota05/23/2505/23/25Brian J. Krystofiak, P.E.25063BJK#9556LC/KRO/NJPKEY2624252729283031322333PRELIMINARY GRADING& EROSION CONTROL PLAN32Page 49 of 240
ELK RIVER 648-1 LAND, LLC14015 Sunfish Lake Blvd. NW, Suite 400Ramsey, MN 55303ofOAKWATER RIDGEPreliminary Plat IElk River, MNf:\jobs\9541 - 9560\9556 - specht farm - elk river\cad c3d\engineering\preliminary\grading\9556_gr.dwgSave Date:05/22/2537Revisions:1.Print Name:Signature:Date:License #:Drawn:Designed:Date:I hereby certify that this plan, specificationor report was prepared by me or under mydirect supervision and that I am a dulyLicensed Professional Engineer underthe laws of the State of Minnesota05/23/2505/23/25Brian J. Krystofiak, P.E.25063BJK#9556LC/KRO/NJPKEY2624252729283031322333PRELIMINARY GRADING& EROSION CONTROL PLAN23Page 50 of 240
ELK RIVER 648-1 LAND, LLC14015 Sunfish Lake Blvd. NW, Suite 400Ramsey, MN 55303ofOAKWATER RIDGEPreliminary Plat IElk River, MNf:\jobs\9541 - 9560\9556 - specht farm - elk river\cad c3d\engineering\preliminary\grading\9556_gr.dwgSave Date:05/22/2537Revisions:1.Print Name:Signature:Date:License #:Drawn:Designed:Date:I hereby certify that this plan, specificationor report was prepared by me or under mydirect supervision and that I am a dulyLicensed Professional Engineer underthe laws of the State of Minnesota05/23/2505/23/25Brian J. Krystofiak, P.E.25063BJK#9556LC/KRO/NJPKEY2624252729283031322333PRELIMINARY GRADING& EROSION CONTROL PLAN33Page 51 of 240
35ELK RIVER 648-1 LAND, LLC14015 Sunfish Lake Blvd. NW, Suite 400Ramsey, MN 55303ofOAKWATER RIDGEPreliminary Plat IElk River, MNf:\jobs\9541 - 9560\9556 - specht farm - elk river\cad c3d\engineering\preliminary\phase i\9556_detail.dwgSave Date:05/22/2537Revisions:1.Print Name:Signature:Date:License #:Drawn:Designed:Date:I hereby certify that this plan, specificationor report was prepared by me or under mydirect supervision and that I am a dulyLicensed Professional Engineer underthe laws of the State of Minnesota05/23/2505/23/25Brian J. Krystofiak, P.E.25063BJK#9556LC/KRO/NJPDETAILSPage 52 of 240
36FRAMECURBFRAMEELK RIVER 648-1 LAND, LLC14015 Sunfish Lake Blvd. NW, Suite 400Ramsey, MN 55303ofOAKWATER RIDGEPreliminary Plat IElk River, MNf:\jobs\9541 - 9560\9556 - specht farm - elk river\cad c3d\engineering\preliminary\phase i\9556_detail.dwgSave Date:05/22/2537Revisions:1.Print Name:Signature:Date:License #:Drawn:Designed:Date:I hereby certify that this plan, specificationor report was prepared by me or under mydirect supervision and that I am a dulyLicensed Professional Engineer underthe laws of the State of Minnesota05/23/2505/23/25Brian J. Krystofiak, P.E.25063BJK#9556LC/KRO/NJPDETAILSPage 53 of 240
37ELK RIVER 648-1 LAND, LLC14015 Sunfish Lake Blvd. NW, Suite 400Ramsey, MN 55303ofOAKWATER RIDGEPreliminary Plat IElk River, MNf:\jobs\9541 - 9560\9556 - specht farm - elk river\cad c3d\engineering\preliminary\phase i\9556_detail.dwgSave Date:05/22/2537Revisions:1.Print Name:Signature:Date:License #:Drawn:Designed:Date:I hereby certify that this plan, specificationor report was prepared by me or under mydirect supervision and that I am a dulyLicensed Professional Engineer underthe laws of the State of Minnesota05/23/2505/23/25Brian J. Krystofiak, P.E.25063BJK#9556LC/KRO/NJPDETAILSPage 54 of 240
34DETAILSELK RIVER 648-1 LAND, LLC14015 Sunfish Lake Blvd. NW, Suite 400Ramsey, MN 55303ofOAKWATER RIDGEPreliminary Plat IElk River, MNf:\jobs\9541 - 9560\9556 - specht farm - elk river\cad c3d\engineering\preliminary\phase i\9556_detail.dwgSave Date:05/22/2537Revisions:1.Print Name:Signature:Date:License #:Drawn:Designed:Date:I hereby certify that this plan, specificationor report was prepared by me or under mydirect supervision and that I am a dulyLicensed Professional Engineer underthe laws of the State of Minnesota05/23/2505/23/25Brian J. Krystofiak, P.E.25063BJK#9556LC/KRO/NJPPage 55 of 240
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eELK RIVER 648-1 LAND, LLC14015 Sunfish Lake Blvd. NW, Suite 400Ramsey, MN 55303ofOAKWATER RIDGEPreliminary Plat IElk River, MN\\cmihqfs01\public\jobs\9541 - 9560\9556 - specht farm - elk river\cad c3d\landscape\9556_prelim i landscape.dwgSave Date:05/22/25Revisions:1.#95567Print Name:Signature:Date:License #:Drawn:Designed:Date:I hereby certify that this plan, specificationor report was prepared by me or under mydirect supervision and that I am a dulyLicensed Landscape Architect underthe laws of the State of Minnesota05/23/25RJR05/23/25Ryan J. Ruttger, RLA56346RJRLC/KRO/NJPPRELIMINARYLANDSCAPE PLANL1PLANTREE WRAPBACKFILL MIXPAINTED FLUORESCENT ORANGEWHITE FLAGGING (TYP.)DOUBLE STRAND 12 GAUGE WIRE8" 2-PLY NYLON STRAPS8' STEEL TEE POST-4 INCHES HARDWOOD MULCHFROM TOP 1/3 OF THE BALLREMOVE BURLAP & ROPEUNDISTURBED SUBSOIL4 INCH DEEP SAUCERNOTE: SEE PLANTING NOTES FOR THE TYPE OF MULCH MATERIAL TO USE.12"6"
2'(MIN.)
6"
6"3 REQUIRED AT 120EXISTING GRADEGUY WIRE WITH WEBBINGFLAGGING- ONE PER WIREPLANTING SOIL MIXTURE (SEE SPEC.)MINIMUM 1/2 WIDTH OF ROOT BALL4"-6" SHREDDED BARKMULCHUNDISTURBED OR STABILIZEDSUBSOILNOTE: GUY ASSEMBLY OPTIONAL BUTCONTRACTOR ASSUMES FULLRESPONSIBILITY FOR MAINTAINING TREEIN A PLUMB POSITION FOR THEDURATION OF THE GUARANTEE PERIODGUY ASSEMBLY- 16"POLYPROPYLENE OR POLYETHYLENE(40 MIL) 1-1/2" WIDE STRAP (TYP)DOUBLE STRAND 10 GA. WIRE, 2-7"ROLLED STEEL POSTS (MnDOT 3401)@ 180° O.C. (SEE STAKING DIAGRAM)COORDINATESTAKING TO INSUREUNIFORMORIENTATION OF GUYLINES AND STAKES2. TRIM OUT DEAD WOOD AND WEAK AND/ORDEFORMED TWIGS. DO NOT CUT A LEADER. DONOT PAINT CUTS.4. PLACE PLANT IN PLANTING HOLE WITHBURLAP AND WIRE BASKET, (IF USED), INTACT.BACKFILL WITHIN APPROXIMATELY 12" OF THETOP OF ROOTBALL, WATER PLANT. REMOVETOP 1/3OF THE BASKET OR THE TOP TWOHORIZONTAL RINGS, WHICHEVER IS GREATER.REMOVE ALL BURLAP AND NAILS FROM TOP1/3 OF THE BALL. REMOVE ALL TWINE.3. SET PLANT ON UNDISTURBED NATIVE SOILOR THOROUGHLY COMPACTED BACKFILL SOIL.INSTALL PLANT SO THE ROOT FLARE IS AT ORUP TO 2" ABOVE THE FINISHED GRADE.6. WATER TO SETTLE PLANTS AND FILLVOIDS.5. PLUMB AND BACKFILL WITHBACKFILL SOIL.7. WATER WITHIN TWO HOURS OFINSTALLATION. WATERING MUST BESUFFICIENT TO THOROUGHLY SATURATEROOT BALL AND PLANTING HOLE.8. PLACE MULCH WITHIN 48 HOURS OFTHE SECOND WATERING UNLESS SOILMOISTURE IS EXCESSIVE.1. SCARIFY BOTTOM AND SIDES OF HOLEPRIOR TO PLANTINGKnow what'sbelow.before you dig.CallRSHEET L2SHEET L2SHEET L3SHEET L3SHEET L4SHEET L4SHEET L6SHEET 1/L5SHEET L6
SHEET 2/L5SHEET 1/L5SHEET 2/L5Page 56 of 240
3RM3HT3SB5AE3RM3CA5HT5RM5AE2JLELK RIVER 648-1 LAND, LLC14015 Sunfish Lake Blvd. NW, Suite 400Ramsey, MN 55303ofOAKWATER RIDGEPreliminary Plat IElk River, MN\\cmihqfs01\public\jobs\9541 - 9560\9556 - specht farm - elk river\cad c3d\landscape\9556_prelim i landscape.dwgSave Date:05/22/25Revisions:1.#95567Print Name:Signature:Date:License #:Drawn:Designed:Date:I hereby certify that this plan, specificationor report was prepared by me or under mydirect supervision and that I am a dulyLicensed Landscape Architect underthe laws of the State of Minnesota05/23/25RJR05/23/25Ryan J. Ruttger, RLA56346RJRLC/KRO/NJPL2PRELIMINARYLANDSCAPE PLANSEE SHEET L3Page 57 of 240
5AE2JL3SB4RM6PD2JL6AE2SB3RM3CA5RO1SB14HL5OB3ER9BB2JL13KC6FM1CA3BO9HB5FM2JL3BO6RO4HT2CA6FM5AE3PD1SB3FM14PO6ER4CA12PO15BLPRELIMINARYLANDSCAPE PLANL3SEE SHEET L2SEE SHEET L4SHEET 1/L5ELK RIVER 648-1 LAND, LLC14015 Sunfish Lake Blvd. NW, Suite 400Ramsey, MN 55303ofOAKWATER RIDGEPreliminary Plat IElk River, MN\\cmihqfs01\public\jobs\9541 - 9560\9556 - specht farm - elk river\cad c3d\landscape\9556_prelim i landscape.dwgSave Date:05/22/25Revisions:1.#95567Print Name:Signature:Date:License #:Drawn:Designed:Date:I hereby certify that this plan, specificationor report was prepared by me or under mydirect supervision and that I am a dulyLicensed Landscape Architect underthe laws of the State of Minnesota05/23/25RJR05/23/25Ryan J. Ruttger, RLA56346RJRLC/KRO/NJPPage 58 of 240
9BB2JL13KC5HT2JL8AE8PD1SB3RM2CA4FM3CA6HT8HT2RM2SB8AE2OB2CA6FM5AE14PO6ER6OB4JL13WO6OB4ER4RM14WO4PD2SB4FM4CA2PD1SB4AE5RM11KC9BB8HL2JL3OB2SB12RM4CA6HL6HL2JL1OB4CA3ER6HB5BL5CA3ER6BL2PD4JL6FM4PD2OB5RM12PO6OB5FM4CA9AE1CAPRELIMINARYLANDSCAPE PLANL4SEE SHEET L3SEE SHEET L6SHEET 2/L5ELK RIVER 648-1 LAND, LLC14015 Sunfish Lake Blvd. NW, Suite 400Ramsey, MN 55303ofOAKWATER RIDGEPreliminary Plat IElk River, MN\\cmihqfs01\public\jobs\9541 - 9560\9556 - specht farm - elk river\cad c3d\landscape\9556_prelim i landscape.dwgSave Date:05/22/25Revisions:1.#95567Print Name:Signature:Date:License #:Drawn:Designed:Date:I hereby certify that this plan, specificationor report was prepared by me or under mydirect supervision and that I am a dulyLicensed Landscape Architect underthe laws of the State of Minnesota05/23/25RJR05/23/25Ryan J. Ruttger, RLA56346RJRLC/KRO/NJPPage 59 of 240
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SEE SHEET 1/L5SEE SHEET 2/L5SHEET L4
ELK RIVER 648-1 LAND, LLC14015 Sunfish Lake Blvd. NW, Suite 400Ramsey, MN 55303ofOAKWATER RIDGEPreliminary Plat IElk River, MN\\cmihqfs01\public\jobs\9541 - 9560\9556 - specht farm - elk river\cad c3d\landscape\9556_prelim i landscape.dwgSave Date:05/22/25Revisions:1.#95567Print Name:Signature:Date:License #:Drawn:Designed:Date:I hereby certify that this plan, specificationor report was prepared by me or under mydirect supervision and that I am a dulyLicensed Landscape Architect underthe laws of the State of Minnesota05/23/25RJR05/23/25Ryan J. Ruttger, RLA56346RJRLC/KRO/NJPPage 60 of 240
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e2OB3HT2SB8AE6HB3HT2JL1SB4PD2SB4JL9BB5RO6HL2JL1OB4CA6HB2FM8HL1SB2JL4OB2ERPRELIMINARYLANDSCAPE PLANL6SEE SHEET L4ELK RIVER 648-1 LAND, LLC14015 Sunfish Lake Blvd. NW, Suite 400Ramsey, MN 55303ofOAKWATER RIDGEPreliminary Plat IElk River, MN\\cmihqfs01\public\jobs\9541 - 9560\9556 - specht farm - elk river\cad c3d\landscape\9556_prelim i landscape.dwgSave Date:05/22/25Revisions:1.#95567Print Name:Signature:Date:License #:Drawn:Designed:Date:I hereby certify that this plan, specificationor report was prepared by me or under mydirect supervision and that I am a dulyLicensed Landscape Architect underthe laws of the State of Minnesota05/23/25RJR05/23/25Ryan J. Ruttger, RLA56346RJRLC/KRO/NJPPage 61 of 240
SYMBOLCODEQTYBOTANICAL NAMECOMMON NAMESIZE CONTAINERTREESRM49Acer rubrum `Northwood`Northwood Red Maple2" Cal.B&BFM58Acer x freemanii `Sienna`Sienna Glen Maple2" Cal.B&BHB25Celtis occidentalisCommon Hackberry2" Cal.B&BHL36Gleditsia triacanthos inermis `Harve`Northern Acclaim Thornless Honey Locust2" Cal.B&BKC 24Gymnocladus dioica `Espresso`Kentucky Coffeetree2" Cal. B&BWO 44Quercus bicolorSwamp White Oak2" Cal. B&BPO35Quercus ellipsoidalisNorthern Pin Oak2" Cal. B&BBO9Quercus macrocarpaBur Oak2" Cal. B&BRO 24Quercus rubraRed Oak2" Cal. B&BBL36Tilia americana `Boulevard`Boulevard Linden2" Cal. B&BAE50Ulmus americana `Princeton`American Elm2" Cal. B&B390SUBTOTAL:ORNAMENTAL TREESOB35Aesculus glabra 'JN Select' TMEarly Glow Ohio Buckeye1.5" Cal.B&BSB 24Amelanchier x grandiflora `Autumn Brilliance`Clump Form, 1.5" Cal EquivalentAutumn Brilliance Serviceberry7` Ht.B&BBB 27Carpinus carolinianaBlue Beech1.5" Cal.B&BER 22Cercis canadensis (MN Strain)Eastern Redbud1.5" Cal.B&BPD29Cornus alternifolia `Wstackman`Golden Shadows Pagoda Dogwood1.5" Cal.B&BHT37Crataegus crus-galli `Inermis`Thornless Hawthorn1.5" Cal.B&BCA38Malus x `Prairifire`Prairifire Crabapple1.5" Cal.B&BJL 34Syringa reticulata `Ivory Silk`Ivory Silk Japanese Tree Lilac1.5" Cal.B&B246SUBTOTAL:GROUND COVERSTI459,185 sfType I - Turf Seed MixRefer to notes for acceptable seeding methodsSeeding Rate 250 lb/acMnDOT Residential Turfgrass (RT)seedTII242,052 sfType II - Stormwater Seed MixRefer to notes for acceptable seeding methodsSeeding Rate 25 lb/acMnDOT Wet Ditch (WD)seedTIII716,503 sfType III - Native Seed MixRefer to notes for acceptable seeding methodsSeeding Rate 35 lb/acMnDOT Southern Shortgrass Roadside (SSR)seedTIV41,775 sfType IV - Wetland Seed MixRefer to notes for acceptable seeding methodsSeeding Rate 35 lb/acMnDOT Southern Tallgrass Roadside (STR)seed1,459,515 sfSUBTOTAL:PLANT SCHEDULEL7PRELIMINARYLANDSCAPE PLANELK RIVER 648-1 LAND, LLC14015 Sunfish Lake Blvd. NW, Suite 400Ramsey, MN 55303ofOAKWATER RIDGEPreliminary Plat IElk River, MN\\cmihqfs01\public\jobs\9541 - 9560\9556 - specht farm - elk river\cad c3d\landscape\9556_prelim i landscape.dwgSave Date:05/22/25Revisions:1.#95567Print Name:Signature:Date:License #:Drawn:Designed:Date:I hereby certify that this plan, specificationor report was prepared by me or under mydirect supervision and that I am a dulyLicensed Landscape Architect underthe laws of the State of Minnesota05/23/25RJR05/23/25Ryan J. Ruttger, RLA56346RJRLC/KRO/NJPPage 62 of 240
Memorandum
To: Parks and Recreation Commission
From: Jeff Shelby, Parks and Recreation Manager
Date: June 11, 2025
Subject: Parks and Recreation Staff Report
Safety Camp
Safety camp was held earlier today at Fire Station #2. The camp teaches youth how to stay safe and keep their cool
in all types of situations and environments. The camp is a collaboration between Parks and Recreation, Elk River
Police Department, Elk River Fire Department, and District 728 Community Education.
Senior Activity Center
We currently have 529 members and had an average of 72 daily check-ins for May, which is an increase over last
May’s attendance. Our day trips continue to be very popular; our two August trips filled within days of registration
opening. We are now offering 1:1 training sessions for members who want to learn how to use our online
registration system.
We plan to have a new Community Event Center Greeter volunteer position beginning later this month. Two
Senior Activities Center (SAC) member volunteers will be supporting front desk staff on Mondays and Wednesdays
as a trial run this summer. Mary Murphy already serves as a volunteer with the Book Club and Social Club. While
Larry Collins serves as a volunteer for the Walking Group and is a Fitness Leader. Both have been active members
since 2021 and some of their support will be focused on the following:
▪Welcoming patrons as they enter the facility.
▪Assisting SAC members with checking in.
▪Answering general questions about the facility.
▪Directing inquiries to appropriate staff.
Rivers Edge Commons Construction and Events
The Rivers Edge Commons Park renovation was completed in time for the Memorial Day program. A few minor
items were completed during the week following. The summer concert series kicks off Thursday June 12 with Free
and Easy Band and we are excited for the public to experience the updated space. Once again, The Bank of Elk
River is serving as the signature sponsor for the entire series, and the city is grateful for the bank’s support.
Disc Golf at Burr Oak Park
After last month’s discussion exploring a potential disc golf course at Burr Oak, community member Tim Schreder
has visited the park several times and begun the process of staking out a layout. He plans to bring other players out
to the site soon to provide feedback on the park and the layout. Staff appreciate Mr. Schreder’s continued efforts
and communication on this project.
Page 63 of 240
Vandalism at Lion John Weicht Park
We were recently made aware of several acts of vandalism at Lions. The two portable toilets were tipped over, a
play drum was broken in the playground, and some graffiti was discovered inside one of the play structures. Staff is
working with ERPD to provide them with all details available and ERPD has indicated they will increase patrols in
the park.
Mississippi Road Trail Construction
As updated in April, the city worked to acquire the necessary easements to complete the trail along Mississippi
Road. The trail will begin at Concord and run all the way to Waco. Trail easements were not able to be procured
from Orono Parkway to Concord, so the trail will not span those two blocks.
Farmers Market
The outdoor Farmers Market opens Thursday June 12. Staff is once again excited about the variety of vendors and
offerings this summer and looking forward to a great outdoor season.
Sports/Programs
Our summer staff training was Monday June 9 with all summer programs and camps starting yesterday. We have a
very busy, but fun and exciting summer ahead. Our intern, Taylor, will have a presentation at the end of summer
highlighting the fun!
The backstops on fields 1-4 at PT Complex have been replaced. The material for 5-6 will arrive soon and be
installed right away. This was a much-needed safety upgrade.
The Emergency Action Plan (EAP) was sent to all of our associations/field users. There are now laminated copies
of this at each complex, in several different locations for easy access should this document be needed. All our users
are grateful for this document as a guiding tool.
July 4 Firework Show
RES Pyro sent a letter to all clients about tariff costs associated with their products. Our contract is valid for 2025,
but it raises concerns about the sustainability of future events. CEO/President Will Wallus explained his company is
on the wrong end of the tariffs stating:
“As you may have seen in the news, tariffs on Chinese imports have become a growing concern across many
industries, including fireworks. These measures, while aimed at broader economic objectives, are having an
unintended but significant impact on the American fireworks industry—and, by extension, the patriotic community
events that rely on them each year. Currently, tariffs on fireworks imported from China—which make up
approximately 99% of the U.S. market—are ranging from 30% to as high as 147%, depending on the timing of
entry into the country. Firework companies like RES Pyro typically schedule container deliveries in the spring to
align with the summer demand, and our incoming shipments for 2025 are directly impacted by these increased
duties.”
Page 64 of 240
The Elk River Vision
A welcoming community with revolutionary and spirited resourcefulness, exceptional service, and community
engagement that encourages and inspires prosperity
Request for Action
To
Parks and Recreation Commission
Item Number
10.1
Meeting Date
June 11, 2025
Prepared By
Jeff Shelby, Recreation Manager
Item Description
Parks and Recreation Master Plan
Reviewed by
Jeff Shelby
Joe Stremcha
Action Requested
Discuss developing the next Parks and Recreation Master Plan (2026-2035).
Background/Discussion
Our current Parks and Recreation Master Plan was adopted in 2015 and created to span 10 years. The city is
due to adopt a new and updated Master Plan to guide parks and recreation development and management for
the next decade. The commission is tasked with the review the current plan to help guide what the next plan
may be comprised of going forward. staff will provide commissioners with links to comparable Parks and
Recreation Master Plans for review. Commissioners will need to review these plans and provide feedback
prior to our July commission meeting. The commission could consider revising the label of this as a
Framework Plan as well.
Financial Impact
None.
Mission/Policy/Goal
Work with citizens to achieve goals.
Attachments
1. 201506 Elk River Parks and Recreation Master Plan_LR
2. Master Plan Category Options
Page 65 of 240
Powered by NatureCity of Elk River
Parks and Recreation Master Plan
Adopted June 2015
Page 66 of 240
Acknowledgements
City Council
Mayor - John J. Dietz
Ward 1 - Jerry Olsen
Ward 2 - Matt Westgaard
Ward 3 - Barbara Burandt
Ward 4 - Jennifer Wagner
2014 City Council members Stewart Wilson and
Paul Motin
Parks & Recreation Commission
Dave Anderson - Chair
Dave Kallemeyn- Vice Chair
Mark Ahlness
Guenther Sagan
Ryan Holmgren
James Nystrom
Mike Niziolek
Staff
Cal Portner, City Administrator
Michael Hecker, Parks and Recreation Director
Chris Leeseberg, Park Planner/Planner
Steve Benoit, Recreation Manager
Rodney Schreifels, Park Maintenance Supervisor
Consultant
Hoisington Kogeler Group Inc.
We would especially like to thank the many members of the
Elk River Community who provided input on this plan.
Powered by NatureCity of Elk River
Parks and Recreation Master Plan
Page 67 of 240
Chapter 1
Chapter 2
Chapter 3
Chapter 4
Chapter 5
Chapter 6
Public Arts Plan
Appendix A
Appendix B
Introduction 1
Trends 9
Needs Assessment 17
Framework 35
Plan 39
Implementation 69
Arts Plan 89
Peer Community Survey 99
2014 Parks and Recreation Survey 105
Table of Contents
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1 City of Elk River - Parks and Recreation Master Plan
Elk River is “Powered by Nature”. Residents live here because of it, visitors expect it,
and the city is defined by it. A vibrant historic downtown, strong neighborhoods,
and thriving industry are complemented by a landscape rich in natural resources,
which includes expansive forests, wetlands, oak savanna, prairie, agricultural lands,
and the essential presence of the Elk and Mississippi Rivers. Parks and Recreation
are the vital connection points between these incredible natural assets and the
residents of Elk River.
With 44 parks and recreation facilities and over 1,000 acres of parkland, the city is
in great position to strengthen the connections to nature for residents and visitors
alike. The Great Northern Trail passes from north to south through the city, and
the Mississippi River Trail, which connects Lake Itasca to the Gulf Coast, runs
through Elk River. Residents also have access to some of the best cross country
skiing and mountain biking trails in the Minneapolis-St. Paul metropolitan area.
Because the parks are essential to the city’s identity and to the quality of life for
residents, a strategic approach to protecting and cultivating these assets for the
future is vital. The Elk River Parks and Recreation Master Plan provides the
city with a roadmap for protecting, developing, and improving the park system
into the future. The master plan identifies important projects and recommends
priorities for the City Council to allocate financial and staff resources in order to
achieve its vision for the parks system. The master plan will also be an important
tool for evaluating future land use proposals throughout the city. The master plan
will provide context and direction for those evaluations, and will specifically help
address the proper role of parks and trails in development and redevelopment
proposals presented to the city.
The plan is organized into five chapters. Chapter 1 introduces and provides the
context for the plan. Chapter 2 identifies national and local trends that impact
current and future development and use of park systems. Chapter 3 provides an
overview of Elk River’s current park system. Chapter 4 provides the framework
for the future of the park and recreation system. Chapter 5 identifies the goals
and policy directions necessary to achieve the vision for the Elk River Parks and
Recreation System. Chapter 6 focuses on implementation, providing the “nuts and
bolts” of how to build the park system the city envisions by identifying resources,
processes, and tools needed to achieve the vision.
Chapter 1
Plan Context and Purpose
Introduction
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Chapter 1: Introduction 2 IntroductIonIntroduction
Plan Purpose
The Parks and Recreation Master Plan is intended to provide direction for
the City Council, the Parks and Recreation Commission, and city staff to
guide them in the big picture decision making that will impact the Parks and
Recreation system. Whether allocating resources for maintenance, building a
trail, installing a playground, protecting riverfront land, or developing the next
season’s recreation program offerings, this plan offers guidance. This direction
is based on the community’s expressed needs and desires as well as analyses of
demographic changes, future trends, and Elk River’s current system.
The Parks and Recreation Master Plan addresses park needs at a system-wide
level. While some projects are identified and prioritized, new projects and needs
will inevitably arise. The initiatives, recommendations, and strategies outlined in
this plan can also provide guidance for these types of new projects.
Benefits of Parks and Recreation
Health
Parks and trails encourage a healthy, active lifestyle by providing a venue for
physical activity. Whether walking or biking on the city’s trails, playing a
baseball or softball pickup game, participating in an organized soccer league,
or snowshoeing through the woods, parks provide essential places for people to
exercise.
When people have access to park facilities and programming, they are more
likely to be active, which improves their physical health. The ability to make
connections with nature, which parks provide, is also linked to improved mental
health.
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3 City of Elk River - Parks and Recreation Master Plan
Property Values
As studies have shown, proximity to parks has a positive impact on property values.
For instance, researchers found that in Washington County, Minnesota, property
owners realized a $16,750 “open space premium” for single family houses located
near parks and open space (Moscowitz, 2007).
Beauty
Parks are the “front yard” of a community. Visitors remember a place by its natural
areas, parks, parkways, beaches, public art, and athletic fields. These elements also
result in a high quality of life and a beautiful place to live for residents.
A Place for People
In a time when social media defines the interactions of many people, parks
and recreation are a place to meet face-to-face, catch up with family members
and friends, and feel like part of the larger community. As the focal point of
neighborhoods, parks help residents develop connections to each other while also
providing venues for other community-building gatherings like farmers markets,
school trips, and festivals.
Natural Value/Environmental Benefits
Savannas, prairies, forests, and wetlands all improve air and water quality while
providing habitat for diverse species of plants and animals. Sound management
of natural areas can reduce the prevalence of invasive species and improve
environmental outcomes for neighboring properties.
Community Health
Recreation programs offer lifelong learning opportunities. These programs
provide enjoyable learning activities for youth and help keep seniors active and
connected. Recreation programs also provide youth with positive role models
and offer after-school and out-of-school activities for children of working parents.
Family Development
One of the main reasons people go to parks is to spend time with family and
friends, and trail users have also stated that they enjoy the opportunity trails
provide to spend active time with their families. Throughout the master plan
process parents spoke of the value and importance of spending afternoons with
their children at playgrounds, skating rinks, and the beach. Parks and recreation
are a great venue for families to spend time with one another and grow together.
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Chapter 1: Introduction 4 IntroductIonRelated Planning Efforts
The following planning efforts influenced the development of the Elk River Parks
and Recreation Master Plan.
Comprehensive Plan
The City of Elk River’s Comprehensive Plan was updated in 2013-2014.
The Comprehensive Plan brings together land use, transportation, housing,
environmental resources, parks, trails, open space, community facilities,
community development, and community image into a comprehensive long
range plan. This Parks and Recreation Master Plan has been informed by and
coordinated with the overall plan for the city so that parks, trails, recreation
facilities, and open space are located where they have the most benefit to residents
and preservation of environmental resources.
The Parks, Trails, and Open Space chapter outlines priorities and guiding principles
for parks, trails, recreation, and open space. It emphasizes the importance of
balancing resources, taking care of the existing system, taking care of youth, and
providing for long-term growth in the northern part of Elk River. This Parks and
Recreation Master Plan supports and adds detail to the Comprehensive Plan. As
stated in the Parks, Trails, and Open Space Chapter of the Comprehensive Plan,
it is intended that chapter will be updated based on the recommendations of this
plan.
Facilities Research/Plan
The city is currently undergoing a facilities study, which will be completed in
2015. This study examines the future role and location of buildings in the park
and recreation system, including the Arena, the Lions Park Center, and the
Activity Center (55+). The findings of this study will have potential impacts
on the park system, especially if the study recommends reconstructed and
relocated facilities. The study will also affect and improve long-term recreation
programming outcomes.
Elk River Wayfinding Plan
Parks are included in the 2015 Elk River Wayfinding Plan, a city-wide effort to
provide better signage and directional information to and within the community.
A goal of the wayfinding plan is to connect residents and visitors to parks,
facilities, and places of interest and commerce.
Natural Resources Inventory/Greenways
In 2004, the city completed the Elk River Natural Resources Inventory (NRI),
which identified areas of high environmental quality and importance. This
inventory should be used to identify the potential for the greenway and habitat
connections and corridors outlined in this master plan.
In addition to habitat corridor, the NRI should be used for the preservation of
properties through activities of the city or encouraging private owners to utilize
easements to preserve landscape.
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5 City of Elk River - Parks and Recreation Master Plan
Planning Process
This master plan is based on input gathered in 2014 from the community,
stakeholders, city staff, and city officials. The plan reflects their collective
wisdom as expressed through surveys, online questionnaires, meetings, focus
groups, hands-on exercises, park and community tours, and group brainstorming.
The plan also incorporates the expertise of the consultant team, an analysis of
benchmarking data, a system-wide evaluation by city staff and the consultants,
information about National Recreation and Parks Association standards, and best
practices collected from other communities.
The Elk River Parks and Recreation Commission provided guidance and input
for the plan’s content. The Commission and the consultant met during each phase
of the planning process with meetings conducted on January 8, May 12, June 11,
July 9, September 10, November 12 of 2014, and March of 2015.
In addition to the Parks and Recreation Commission meetings, an extensive
public outreach effort engaged over 850 residents and stakeholders throughout
the process. This public outreach process included:
• Partner organization and athletic association focus group held on March 27,
2014.
• Community Open Houses on June 25, 2014, and August 20, 2014.
• The 2014 Parks and Recreation Survey, a statistically valid survey, mailed to
3,100 randomly-selected residents with nearly 400 respondents during the
Spring of 2014.
• Online questionnaire in the Summer of 2014 with over 300 participants
responding.
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Chapter 1: Introduction 6 IntroductIonExisting Parks and Recreation Highlights
• 44 parks and recreation facilities
• 1,000 acres of park land
• 16 miles of paved trails
• 25 miles of natural surface hiking trails in parks throughout the system
• 8 miles of unpaved mountain bike trails
• Groomed cross country ski trail network
• Biathlon range
• Disc golf course
• 3 outdoor ice hockey rinks
• 2 indoor ice hockey rinks
• 6 open skating ice rinks
• 3 athletic complexes
• 14 ballfields for baseball and softball
• 13 outdoor basketball courts
• 4 full-sized multi-use fields (soccer, football, lacrosse)
• Amphitheater
• Dog park
• Activity Center (55+)
• 2 community recreation buildings
• Signature playground
• A wide variety of annual recreation programs
• A well attended community concert series
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7 City of Elk River - Parks and Recreation Master Plan
Figure 1.1 Existing Parks, Trails, and Recreation System
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Chapter 1: Introduction 8 IntroductIonThis page intentionally left blank
Page 76 of 240
9 City of Elk River - Parks and Recreation Master Plan
Trends
Trends
The city, recreation, and our environment are ever changing and dynamic. New
technologies, trends, cultures, and activities affect new facility and program needs.
Elk River must keep pace with these changing needs. By building flexibility into
recreation and park facilities, the city will be able to adapt quickly and efficiently
to new needs. The following chapter outlines key national and local trends
influencing recreation and parks in Elk River.
A Growing Community
Elk River continues to be a growing community. From 1990 to 2010 the
population doubled from 11,143 to 22,974.
The city anticipates adding nearly 13,000 more people by 2035, placing additional
demands for recreation of all types on the current park system. Further, the
existing park amenities have aged and require increasing maintenance, repair and
replacement.
Aging and Aging Actively
Baby Boomers (born 1946-1964) represent almost 25% population nationally. In
Elk River this demographic, specifically the over-55 population, grew 84% from
2000 to 2010, significantly outpacing growth in the rest of the population (31%).
The Baby Boomers are aging, but are determined not to let it slow them down.
Many seek changes in lifestyle to reflect their lack of child-care responsibilities
and expanded recreation, educational, and cultural interests. As the nation’s
largest generation gets older, they are more active with continued participation
in social, economic, cultural, recreation, and civic affairs. Elk River will need to
provide opportunities, civic participation, social interaction, education, as well as
a broad range of active recreation choices.
Chapter 2
Page 77 of 240
Chapter 2: Trends 10 TrendsTrends
Increasingly Diverse
Sherburne County as a whole is getting more diverse, and Elk River is no
exception. This demographic shift means recreation programming and facilities
face changing demands. Unique activities and preferred sports will continue to
increase, and along with racial and ethnic diversity comes an increased desire for
multi-generational interaction.
Parks and Recreation are Important for Families
Parks and recreation opportunities are important features for families who
look for activities and open space close to home to provide enrichment, sports
opportunities, child care options, and simply a place to get outside and move.
A high percentage of Elk River residents are children and adults 25-55, who are
likely to have children at home. A strong parks and recreation system, along
with good schools and employment opportunities, is an essential component to
attracting and retaining families.
Youth
Children and youth continue to comprise a significant portion of the total
population in Elk River. In 2010, over 30% of Elk River’s residents were 19 or
younger, therefore, it is important to increase access to parks and recreation
facilities, as well as engage youth in programming.
Engaging youth in physical activity improves resiliency, teaches healthy habits,
and develops self-esteem. Collaboration with other community organizations
including schools, youth athletic associations, and non-profits is needed to
respond to the recreational needs and interests of youth.
Universal Accessibility
More than ever, people with disabilities are searching for and finding ways to live
active and independent lives.
Many parts of parks and recreation are legally mandated to meet accessibility
standards, and those that are not legally mandated to do so are also moving
towards greater accessibility, with playgrounds, trails, and athletic facilities being
adapted to meet the needs of all citizens. Similarly, programming must provide
activities for people with various abilities.
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11 City of Elk River - Parks and Recreation Master Plan
Active Living
All age groups are seeing an increase in obesity rates, along with associated health
risks, such as high blood pressure and diabetes. As a result, people are paying
increased attention to Active Living, which centers around the idea that physical
activity can and should be integrated into daily routines.
The resulting demands for parks and recreation include more walking, running,
and biking trails, additional senior fitness opportunities, and more ways to
integrate the health of the body and mind into everyday lifestyles.
Trails
According to the 2014 Parks and Recreation Survey, over 70% of Elk River
residents identify trails as a high priority, which mirrors state and national trends,
where trails are consistently at the top of the list of desired amenities.
Trails serve multiple purposes, providing recreation, safe routes for travel, and
places for active recreation. Whether they are long, linear trails like the Great
Northern Trail, or a walking loop like the trail at Lion John Weicht Park, trails are
in high demand.
Non-traditional Sports
Mountain biking, rugby, disc golf, geo-caching, pickleball, and ultimate frisbee
are all surging in popularity.
These sports bring more activities to parks and are important for providing
program options that appeal to all members of the community. These non-
traditional activities are also placing new and different demands on parks and
staff and may compete with traditional activities for park resources and space.
Art
Public art is extending beyond fixed objects and building enhancements to include
festivals, artists-in-residence, temporary installations, and projects associated with
environmental stewardship, education, or social service endeavors.
There is a growing interest among artists and arts organizations to reach audiences
outside of traditional venues and increase access to the arts by all people. Non-artists
are also recognizing and demanding the value and quality of life improvements
that come along with investments in public art.
Communities are incorporating public art—as well as arts and cultural
programming —into parks and other public spaces.
Time-Pressed
Households are busier, commutes are long, and schedules are more demanding.
Free time is a rare but highly valued commodity for families.
While parents look for programs that can keep kids active and engaged during
the summer and after school, they are also less tolerant of programs and practices
Page 79 of 240
Chapter 2: Trends 12 Trendsthat take away from family time on weekends. Adult commuters will need time
to get back from work before participating in activities, and scheduling must also
reflect that.
Busy schedules also have implications for volunteerism. It is becoming more
challenging to recruit new volunteers and those interested are often in need of
opportunities with short time commitments or one time events like park clean up
days or native planting events.
Fiscal Challenges
For the past 10 years, parks and recreation departments have been asked to do
more with less. This has led to creative ways to provide recreation programming,
including increases in partnerships, and finding new funding sources.
In many other communities, it has also meant a reduction in staff and resources,
leading to deferred maintenance and a halt on park system expansion. Further,
the existing park amenities have aged and require increasing maintenance, repair,
removal, and replacement.
Parks and Open Space as Economic Drivers
As cities become more strategic with their investments, parks provide opportunities
to strengthen economic development and redevelopment because they enrich the
quality of life for residents and create value for a community. The 2005 Report on
the Economic Value of Open Space found that many types of open spaces from
nature preserves to greenways, wetlands, and lakes have a positive effect on nearby
property values in the Twin Cities. To increase neighborhood desirability, many
new developments include a central green, common natural open space, a trail
corridor, or a park.
Sustainability
Sustainability is often described as a three legged stool, held up by environmental,
economic, and social elements. Many of the aforementioned trends touch on one
or more of the “legs” but for a park system to remain resilient for the long run, it
must address all of these issues.
Socially, parks and recreation are striving to be inclusive of all community
members. Places and activities that are loved by all of the community are more
likely to be protected, preserved, and looked after.
Economically, parks and recreation provide services as a strong value in order to
retain and develop funding sources.
Environmentally, parks and recreation allow people to encounter and make
connections with the natural world, while also protecting wildlife habitat and
native landscapes.
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13 City of Elk River - Parks and Recreation Master Plan
Environmentally Aware
From global concerns over climate change and air pollution to local challenges like
invasive species management and watershed protection, people across the nation
and in Elk River are increasingly aware of the environment and our impacts on it.
At the same time, people are also demanding more natural recreation experiences,
such as birdwatching, fishing, hiking, hunting, and nature study. People are also
becoming more interested in the environmental and health benefits of local food
production.
Parks and recreation can be a showcase for environmental best practices such
as on-site stormwater treatment, green buildings, habitat preservation, invasive
species management, habitat restoration, and landscape management.
Changing Climate
Recent climate trends have brought warmer winters and more severe weather, all
of which can impact winter sports such as skating, skiing, and hockey. Wetter,
longer springs have meant fields are not playable until later in the season, and
warm summers require additional resources to keep fields watered and in good
shape. Climate change also means vegetation change. Plants that cannot survive
the coldest Minnesota winters are now persisting, and pests and invasive species
that had been kept at bay by the climate are making headway into the state.
Some implications for parks and recreation departments across Minnesota
include: increased demand for synthetic turf fields; interest in refrigerated ice
rinks; reduction in neighborhood skating rinks; snow making for more consistent
cross-country ski conditions; the need for proactive vegetation management plans
addressing Emerald Ash Borer; the need to preserve existing natural landscapes;
and the need to manage parks and open space for increased biological diversity.
Local Food Production
Interest is growing about where food comes from. Farm-to-Table arrangements
such as Community Supported Agriculture and farmers markets are popular and
effective ways to support and obtain local foods.
People are also exploring other opportunities related to the production of foods.
Foraging and edible landscapes are gaining popularity along with backyard
agriculture such as straw bale gardens. At a larger scale, working farms are
opening their doors to the public to learn about the food they cultivate. Some
housing developments are incorporating agriculture as the centerpiece of the
neighborhood. Many parks systems now incorporate rentable community garden
spaces into some of their property. The benefits of local food production include
support of the local economy, learning about regional foods and seasons, improved
access to healthy foods, and reduced reliance on other regions and transportation.
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Chapter 2: Trends 14 TrendsThis page intentionally left blank
Page 82 of 240
Chapter 3: The System Today15City of Elk River - Parks and Recreation Master Plan
Introduction
A critical evaluation of Elk River’s Parks and Recreation System serves as the
foundation for this master plan. The needs assessment, which identifies current
and future needs and desires, is organized by key topics and includes input results
and evaluation and research findings.
The needs assessment process included:
• Evaluation of the entire system of parks, trails, natural and cultural resources,
connectivity, programs, and facilities.
• Identification of system-wide needs and opportunities.
• Identification of individual park needs and opportunities.
• Review of recreation program use and delivery.
• Evaluation of current park classification system and standards.
• Evaluation of service areas, future growth, and development needs.
• Comparison of Elk River’s park system features and facilities to those of peer
communities.
• Comparison of supply and distribution facilities, fields, and courts to
accepted national service standards.
• Evaluation of emerging recreation, fiscal, environmental, land development,
social and demographic trends influencing Elk River’s parks, recreation and
trails.
Chapter 3Needs Assessment
Where We Are Today
Page 83 of 240
Chapter 3: The System Today 16 TodayCommunity Input
Community input has been an essential component of this planning process
in order to ensure that future park system investment is relevant to the needs
and desires expressed by Elk River residents. Community input was collected
to identify community satisfaction with the park system, the level of park and
recreation use, opinions on the system’s needs, issues, and priorities, and desires
for future system development. Input about non-city park and recreation
resources available to the community was also included in the analysis. Outreach
methods used to collect this data included:
• Focus Group session with other partners and stakeholders (March 27, 2014)
• The 2014 Parks and Recreation Survey (Spring 2014)
• Online community questionnaire (Summer 2014)
• Community Open House to collect input (June 25, 2014)
• Community Open House to affirm community input (August 20, 2014)
Residents and other stakeholders who participated in the planning process
provided essential information that will help define Elk River’s future parks and
recreation system.
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17 City of Elk River - Parks and Recreation Master Plan Chapter 3: The System Today
Community Survey & Questionnaire
As part of the Parks and Recreation master planning process, the city conducted
the 2014 Parks and Recreation Survey to find how residents use park today
and gauge priorities for the future. The survey also included questions to gauge
attitudes towards providing tax money to support improvements to the parks
and recreation system. The highlights from the survey results are shown in the
sidebar to the left.
In addition, the planning process included an online questionnaire to help
determine priority direction for the future. Responses from over 300 participants
provided a snapshot of community interest, which is outlined in the accompanying
graphic.
Demographics
The demographics of Elk River continue to change, as noted in Chapter 2, and
as they change, the parks and recreation system must also change to ensure they
continue to meet the needs of residents.
The greatest future needs will be at opposite ends of the age spectrum. As Baby
Boomers age, a larger percentage of the community will look for senior recreation.
Despite the increase in an older segment of the population, however, Elk River
will continue to see growth in the number of families with children. This growth
will mean an increase in the number of residents looking for athletic facilities,
playgrounds, and youth-focused programming.
2014 Parks and
Recreation Survey-
Key Findings
Park System Usage
• Over 1/2 of respondents
use parks at least once
monthly
• Over 90% use parks
annually
• Playgrounds are highly
used
• Woodland Trails and
Orono Park are most
visited
High Satisfaction
Rate
• 80% of respondents
expressed satisfaction
with park and recreation
offerings as a whole
• 83% are satisfied with
overall maintenance and
it is a high priority for the
future
Strong Support for
Trails
Trail-based activities are
the are by far most popular
features of the park system
• Residents are satisfied
trails, they were also
identified as the highest
priorities for the future
• Trail improvements/
additions had the highest
level of support of any
improvement with
58% answering “Great
Support”
Page 85 of 240
Chapter 3: The System Today 18 TodayFinally, a small but growing minority population in Elk River may bring additional
desires and uses to the parks and recreation system.
Peer Communities Assessment
As part of the evaluation process, Elk River’s parks and recreation system was
compared with parks systems in Cottage Grove, Red Wing, Rosemount, Inver
Grove Heights, South St. Paul, Andover, and Shakopee. These peer communities
were chosen for their similarities to Elk River including:
• Urban/Rural mix
• Riverfront
• Population (Current and Projected)
• Geographic Size
• Environmental Assets
When compared with other communities, Elk River fares well in terms of the per
capita number of total parks, the number of neighborhood parks, and the amount
of acreage devoted to parks per capita. The city also offers unique facilities for
activities such as mountain biking, biathlon, and high quality cross country skiing
that are not found in most of its peer cities.
Conversely, Elk River’s paved trail system is smaller than the trail system in many
of its peer communities. Elk River also relies much more on the school system for
athletic facilities and courts than peer communities.
A chart of the data can be found in Appendix A.
Neighborhood Park Access
The majority of neighborhood residences within Elk River’s urban service area
are within a half-mile of either a neighborhood park or a community park with
neighborhood park features (such as a playground).
The most significant area lacking access to neighborhood park facilities is between
the railroad tracks and the Elk River/Lake Orono. This area is already developed,
and there is very limited land available for a neighborhood park.
Access to the neighborhood park facilities in Meadowvale Heights Park and
Orono Park could be improved if connectivity across the railroad tracks and
across Highway 10 could be improved.
See the Neighborhood Park Access Map on the following page for more detail.
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19 City of Elk River - Parks and Recreation Master Plan Chapter 3: The System Today
Figure 3.1 Existing Neighborhood Park Access
See Figure
3.2
Parks
Page 87 of 240
Chapter 3: The System Today 20 TodayNeighborhood Park Service Area Overlap
Some small parks with overlapping service areas may be redundant. In addition,
some of these parks have difficult maintenance access issues, lack real public
access, are undeveloped, and/or are prohibitively small for park use. These parks
include:
• Baldwin
• Meadow
• North Terrace
• Elk Hills Green Space
• Property south of Ridgewood East on 191 1/2 Avenue (75-432-0101)
These parks may be unnecessary from a system standpoint and could potentially
be better used as privately-owned or privately-managed land.
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75-432-0101
0 0.25 0.5Miles¯
Legend
Parks
Undeveloped Parks
Schools
1/2 mile service area
Note: darker color represents
overlapping service areas
Figure 3.2 Neighborhood Service Area Overlap
miles
PID 75-432-0101
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21 City of Elk River - Parks and Recreation Master Plan Chapter 3: The System Today
New Neighborhood Parks
While the city has adequate park resources to serve residents today, new parks
will need to be considered as the community grows. As the community expands
north, new types of residential developments are anticipated. Some development
will continue according to the large lot pattern found in the northeast part of the
city. Other developments, however, will be clustered and have greater density on
a portion of the property, or, as in the case of the Gravel Mining District, could
have significant development and require new parks.
In general, the larger lot development pattern cannot support neighborhood
parks accessible by foot for all residents. Furthermore, many residents already
have additional land as part of their private property and may not require nearby
neighborhood parks.
On the other hand, residents in the denser, more defined neighborhoods have
expressed a desire for neighborhood parks that they can access on foot. Limited
numbers of neighborhood parks may be warranted as new neighborhoods
outside of the Urban Service Area develop, depending on development patterns
and density.
If the land use in the Gravel Mining District is such that park amenities are
required, the park classification shall be based on the density of residential
development in the district.
Athletics
In order to meet national standards for many athletic facilities, the city relies on
the school district’s fields, gyms, and tennis courts.
City-owned and operated athletic facilities include:
• Dave Anderson Athletic Complex - adult softball fields/youth football.
• Youth Athletic Complex - youth softball, baseball, and soccer/football/
lacrosse fields.
• Oak Knoll Athletic Complex - soccer/football/lacrosse fields, youth baseball
fields, and softball fields.
• Elk River Arena - hockey and skating.
In addition to the dedicated athletic facilities, many parks have informal softball
and soccer fields, basketball hoops, and ice rinks for pick-up games.
The city’s facilities have not kept pace with the city’s growth, and the increasing
demand for open field space for soccer, lacrosse, and football on these fields has
become scarce. Burgeoning youth softball and baseball programs also compete for
enough field space to accommodate demand. The shortage of athletic field space is
exacerbated when rain, snow, and darkness leave the fields unplayable.
Page 89 of 240
Chapter 3: The System Today 22 TodayFigure 3.3 Athletic Field Access
Page 90 of 240
23 City of Elk River - Parks and Recreation Master Plan Chapter 3: The System Today
The community needs more high-quality athletic facilities, and the city and
school district should continue to work together to provide these facilities.
Needs for athletic facilities include:
• Artificial turf fields
• Signature baseball field
• Lighting
• Ice Arena improvements
• Indoor field house
Speciality Recreation
Elk River parks offer facilities for specialty athletics that few other cities offer. The
city’s high-quality mountain biking, biathlon, and cross country skiing trails are
some of the best in the state and are a destination for residents and visitors.
Pinewood Golf Course has historically provided opportunities for affordable golf
on a 9-hole executive course. During the master planning process, Pinewood
Golf Course was not open to the public. Through the planning process, some
residents expressed a strong desire to retain golf as part of the city’s recreation
offerings. Resident desires to retain the Pinewood Golf Course include: providing
an affordable golf option; supporting new golfers with learning course; ensuring
family-friendly activities that appeal to all ages.
The community does have an 18-hole course which is open for public use and
there are 10 golf courses within 20 minutes of Elk River.
Needs for new speciality recreation include:
• Skate park
• Splash pad
• Pickleball
Page 91 of 240
Chapter 3: The System Today 24 TodayCommunity Parks and Signature Parks
Through the public engagement process, residents put an emphasis on “signature”
parks. Community members acknowledged that they are willing to drive to larger
playgrounds, unique activities, and high quality facilities. Thus, Elk River has
an opportunity to build on the success of existing community parks by further
enhancing them as ‘signature parks’.
Signature parks are community parks with unique high-quality recreation
facilities that attract residents from throughout the community and regional
visitors. Examples of signature park facilities include athletic fields, a large play
ground with custom equipment, Rivers Edge Commons, and Woodland Trails
Park. Parks also considered to be signature parks include Lion John Weicht
Park, Orono Park, Dave Anderson Athletic Complex, and the Youth Athletic
Complex. There may be community parks within the city that are not classified
as ‘signature’.
As the community continues to grow, additional pressure will be put on community
facilities, which may necessitate the creation of additional community parks or
expanding and improving existing parks to meet increased demand.
Individual Park Needs
Identified needs for specific parks listed below. This list includes many of the
needs identified through the park planning process, but is not exhaustive of all
investments needed in the park system.
Youth Athletic Complex (Signature Park)
• Continue to improve as a high-quality youth athletic complex.
• Support amenities including paved parking, restrooms facilities, and
concessions.
• Wayfinding, both to and within the park.
• Add playfields to meet growing demand.
Orono Park (Signature Park)
• Continue to improve park with high quality, signature facilities.
• Improve vehicle and pedestrian circulation within the park and trail
connections to the park.
• Expand beach and add beach house with concessions and canoe/kayak
rental.
• Add speciality facilities such as skate park, pickleball, nature-based play,
and splash pad.
• Consider adding a Miracle Field.
• Refurbish picnic shelters.
• Expand off-leash dog area.
• Add basketball court.
Page 92 of 240
25 City of Elk River - Parks and Recreation Master Plan Chapter 3: The System Today
Dave Anderson Athletic Complex (Signature Park)
• Upgrade outdated support facilities including concessions, restrooms
facilities, trail connections and expanded parking to improve fan/visitor
experience.
Lion John Weicht Park (Signature Park)
• Address wetland/water issues and soils issues.
• The amphitheater needs to be removed and possibly rebuilt to address
public safety and visibility issues.
• The facilities plan will address building problems and the potential for other
uses such as an arena.
Woodland Trails (Signature Park)
• Capitalize on unique assets such as extensive hiking and cross-country ski
trail network, natural setting, and connectivity to the Great Northern Trail.
• Protect the park as mining occurs. Guide the development of the mining
property to ensure a desirable transition from park to other land uses by
buffering the park and trails from adjacent land uses and creating trail links
to new land uses.
• Develop a natural resources management plan.
• Continue to maintain prairie areas with prescribed burns.
• Explore potential for being classified a regional park.
• Strengthen synergy between the Great Northern Trail and Woodland Trails.
• Restore central wetland.
• Develop a land preservation or acquisition strategy for identified land north
of County Road 33.
• Develop on-going maintenance strategy that ensures high quality park
maintenance, quantifies staffing needs, and recognizes current importance
of volunteer labor.
Rivers Edge Commons (Signature Park)
• Expand performance area, seating, and river access as opportunities allow.
Page 93 of 240
Chapter 3: The System Today 26 TodayHillside Park
• Parking
• Restrooms facilities
• Drinking water
• Bike wash
• Permanent storage facility
• Electricity and water
• Event facility
• Natural resources management plan
• Pedestrian connectivity
• Plan for possible expansion
Babcock Park
• Retain trail connections and boat launch as Highway 10 reconstruction
right-of-way shifts.
• Preserve the river frontage
• Preserve the Works Progress Administration (WPA) structures
Barrington Park
• Replace/upgrade play equipment
Birch Meadow Park
• Develop trail connection to the school.
Bailey Point Nature Preserve
• Improve user experience with paved trails
• Improve habitat quality
• Develop a natural resources plan
• Preserve and maintain structure for programmable space and maintenance
• Provide picnic shelter for programs
Houlton Farm
• Natural surface trails
• Parking area
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27 City of Elk River - Parks and Recreation Master Plan Chapter 3: The System Today
Trails
The city provides a range of trail-related recreation experiences on both paved
and unpaved trails. Natural surface, trail-based recreation occurs in many parks
throughout the system and includes cross country running, mountain biking,
hiking, and cross country skiing. Woodland Trails Park has a network of paved
and unpaved trails for summer hiking and winter cross country skiing. Hillside
park has a network of mountain bike trails. The Great Northern Trail provides
a paved recreational spine from Elk River to Livonia Township and is a regional
recreation resource. Eventually the Great Northern Trail will extend north
through Livonia Township, the City of Zimmerman and beyond. Paved trails and
sidewalks along roads and within neighborhoods provide opportunities for non
motorized transportation and recreation.
Trails are very popular with Elk River residents. The 2014 City of Elk River Parks
and Recreation Survey revealed that 80% of respondents have participated in
walking and hiking and 60% have participated in bicycling in the last three years.
Residents are satisfied with walking and biking trails and they hold a high priority
for the future. 58% of survey respondents would be willing to greatly support
additional biking and walking trails through a bond referendum or temporary tax
increase.
Figure 3.4 shows that most residents with in the Urban Service Area live within
1/2 mile of a trail. Gaps in the system do exist which limits system usability,
particularly to key destinations such as schools, downtown, and the Great
Northern Trail. Overall and there is a need for a better connected trail system.
Trail needs and issues include (but are not limited to):
• Land preservation or acquisition strategy for identified land north of County
Road 33
• Lack of safe trail connections in some locations
▶High traffic and low visibility locations dictate the need for off-
street trails.
▶Trail link between along Highway 10 between Upland Avenue NW
and Orono Park.
▶Link between Rice Lake Park and the Great Northern Trail on 221st.
▶Connections to the Trout Brook neighborhood.
• Connections to the Great Northern Trail. Notably connections to:
▶Downtown
▶Rice Lake Park on 221st
▶Neighborhoods north of the Urban Service Area
▶Connection between Birch Meadow Park and Twin Lakes School
• Highway 169 is a significant east-west barrier, safe crossings are needed.
• Destinations that would benefit from greater connectivity include schools,
downtown, the Elk River, and the Mississippi River.
Page 95 of 240
Chapter 3: The System Today 28 TodayFigure 3.4 Access to Trails
Page 96 of 240
29 City of Elk River - Parks and Recreation Master Plan Chapter 3: The System Today
Natural Areas
Elk River is blessed with an extraordinary natural environment of forest, savanna,
prairie, flood plains, and wetland complexes, much of which is publicly accessible
as parkland.
The city maintains numerous natural areas as parkland throughout the community.
Natural areas provide benefits to the public through the services they provide
such as water storage and purification, moderating our environment, and the
biodiversity to efficiently cycle nutrients.
These areas are also available for public recreation such as hiking, bird watching,
snowshoeing, and cross country skiing. Natural resource parks are assets that
provide the city with the type of outdoor character that the city promotes through
its Powered by Nature theme.
River/Water Access
There are relatively few public access points to the rivers, although the city is at the
confluence of the Elk and Mississippi Rivers. Access to the river includes visual
connection, or views, as well as places where residents can be near, or ‘touch’, the
river. Creating better connections to the rivers is an important task for the city.
Needs and issues related to river access include:
• Lack of public connectivity along the rivers.
• Right-of-way and roadway design constraints that complicate development
of a downtown riverfront trail.
• Uncertainty about the long-term future of Babcock Park and the boat launch
when Highway 10 is reconstructed.
• Potential for more river-based recreation.
• Connections and future expansions at Rivers Edge Commons.
• Protect Mississippi bluff land in its natural form as public amenity from the
FAST subzone (East Elk River Gateway) to the Oliver Kelley Farm.
In addition to river access, there is a need to address perceived and real water
quality issues at Lake Orono.
Page 97 of 240
Chapter 3: The System Today 30 TodayFigure 3.5 Access to Natural Areas
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31 City of Elk River - Parks and Recreation Master Plan Chapter 3: The System Today
Programs
The city offers a diverse range of programs for residents, and care is taken to
provide programs that appeal to people of all ages. Programs are conducted in
city parks as well as at the Lion’s Park Center, the Y, the Elk River Library, the
Activity Center (55+), athletic complexes, and Elk River school facilities.
The Activity Center (55+) has made its home in the former library since 2008.
The building functions, but additional space may be required in the future as
demand increases. The center is open weekdays during typical business hours and
hosts a fitness center, classes, computers, pool tables, small and medium gathering
rooms, and a coffee shop. However, the building needs upgrades, to continue as
a successful Activity Center (55+). The restrooms are not ADA accessible, the
heating system needs updating, and the parking lot is undersized and needs safety
enhancements to improve navigation.
The Lions Park Center, which is located at Lion John Weicht Park, is heavily
utilized by the community but is in need of significant upgrades, replacement,
or relocation because many of the building’s components have reached or are
reaching the end of their functional life span. There is a desire for larger and
more flexible space that could support recreation programming as well as events,
banquets, and meetings.
The construction of the Y was accomplished through a partnership between the
Y and the city. A key component of this agreement is access to the Y by Elk River
residents, which includes discounted family passes and gym use for recreation
programs. It is vital that the Parks and Recreation Department continually
maximizes the access to the Y by Elk River Residents. The Y facility provides a
great opportunity to offer healthy, active programs for the community.
Maintenance
Parks and Facilities
In the community survey, 83% of residents said that they are satisfied with the
maintenance of the parks. Maintenance was also recognized as the second highest
priority for the future. Residents believe that clean and welcoming parks are
important for the community.
In order to protect the investments that have been made in the park facilities and to
continue to provide clean and welcoming parks, the city should allocate sufficient
financial and staff resources to keep up with maintenance needs. Furthermore, as
the city grows and develops more parks, maintenance needs must continue to be
supported.
Page 99 of 240
Chapter 3: The System Today 32 TodayAlso, through the Adopt-a-Park program or the city-wide volunteer program, Elk
River’s Parks and Recreation benefits from the work of hundreds of volunteers
at varying levels. While many of our parks rely on individuals or small groups
of people taking care of them, Woodland Trails, Hillside City Park, and Bailey
Point Nature Preserve all rely heavily on numerous volunteers to maintain them
at their current high levels. Efforts should be made to quantify the hours and
value of their work and to ensure that volunteer programs are sustained.
Natural Resources
Maintenance of the natural parks must occur in two areas: The first area of
maintenance being the care and beauty of the park for human activity, and the
second being the active management of the natural parks from the prospective
of ecosystem functionality. Within the natural management prospective, great
emphasis should be placed upon biodiversity, preservation of high quality
natural resources and native landscape features, and establishment of appropriate
natural landscapes.
Arts
Community interest in the arts is significant and as a result, the city has a plethora
of motivated artists and advocates. The City Council expressed an interest in
expanding the role of public art in both the park system and throughout the city.
Recently established programs, such as The Riverfront Concert Series and recent
art installations, demonstrate the value arts can bring when integrated into the
facilities. The Riverfront Concert Series draws thousands of visitors each week.
Hillside park is home to ‘Tina’ a sculpture by Sue Seeger (shown on previous
page). This sculpture, the new installation at Handke School also by Sue Seeger,
the Ladle sculpture in front of Art Soup by Gene Olson (shown on page 96)
highlights the community’s cultural strength and adds value to public places.
Incorporating arts into the fabric of the city’s infrastructure can also add to the
sense of place in Elk River. Integrating art into facilities such as bridges, roads,
and buildings beautify the city by enhancing the typically utilitarian things that
help the city function.
Additional events such as art fairs, performances, and educational events will
help raise awareness and enthusiasm for the arts in Elk River. The arts are further
discussed in the Elk River Public Arts Plan.
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33 City of Elk River - Parks and Recreation Master Plan Chapter 3: The System Today
Figure 3.6 System Needs Assessment
HOULTON FARM
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!HILLSIDE
CITY PARK
YOUTH
ATHLETIC
COMPLEX
BIRCH MEADOW
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BABCOCK
PARK KLEIVER
MARSH
PARK KLEIVER POINT
PARK
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PARK ORONO
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DAVE ANDERSON
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PARK
MISS. OAKS
PARK
WEST
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PARK
RIVERPLACE
PARK
COUNTRY
CROSSING
PARK
FRESNO
PARK
RIVERS
EDGE
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BAILEY POINT
NATURE PRESERVE
WOODLAND TRAILS PARK
MEADOWVALE
HEIGHTS PARK
RICE LAKE
PARK
BURR
OAK
PARK
SEDGE
MEADOW
PARK
ALBA
RIDGE
PARK
WINDSOR
PARK
ROYAL VALLEY
PARK
HIGHLANDS PARK
RIDGEWOOD
PARK DEERFIELD
HILL PARK
OAK SAVANNA
PARK
WOODLAND TRAILS PARK
HILLSIDE
CITY PARK
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YOUTH
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PARK
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ORONO
PARK
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PARK
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ALBA
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PARK
LIONS PARK
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WINDSOR
PARK
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DAVE ANDERSON
ATHLETIC COMPLEX
KLEIVER
MARSH
PARK
RIDGEWOOD
PARK
OXBOW
PARK
MISS. OAKS
PARK
DEERFIELD
HILL PARK
WEST
OAKS
PARK
RIVERPLACE
PARK
COUNTRY
CROSSING
PARK
FRESNO
PARK
KLEIVER POINT
PARK
BARRINGTON
PARK
MEADOW
PARK
RIVERS
EDGE
COMMONS
NORTH TERRACE
PARK
BALDWIN
PARK
BAILEY POINT
NATURE PRESERVEGREAT NORTHERN TRAILOAK KNOLL
ATHETIC COMPLEX
OAK SAVANNA
PARK
ELK HILLS
GREEN SPACE
ELK HILLS
GREEN SPACE
KLEIVER LAKE
FIELDS PARK
KLEIVER LAKE
FIELDS PARK
TROTT BROOK
FARMS PARK
TROTT BROOK
FARMS PARKELK LAKE181ST TWIN LAKES205TH
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LINEBUSINESS CENTER
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ELK RIVER SPORTSMAN’S CLUB
SHERBURNE CO.
FAIRGROUNDS
0 0.5 1Miles¯
169
10
169
10
-Popular trail-Desire to increase use and increase economic development opportunities-Currently lacks connection to the north
Add to Woodland Trails Park/Great Northern Trail
-Popular nature focused park-Cross country ski and hiking trails-Seek regional park status -See signature park detail plan for improvements
-Trailhead improvements, drinking water, and improved equipment storage desired
Existing MRT route on road
-Trail connection needed to schoolDevelop as signature park and high quality athletic complex. See detail plan.
See signature park detail plan for improvements
- Continue to improve as a high quality youth sports complex -See signature park detail plan for improvements
PARK IMPROVEMENTS
RECOMMENDED SIGNATURE PARKS
CONNECTIVITY NEEDED
FUTURE NEIGHBORHOOD PARK SEARCH AREA
Poor access, minimal amenities, and duplication of services -Potential to add hockey rink and softball eld
Retain trail access and boat launch
-River access potential
Resident desire for neighborhood park amenities: playground, volleyball, and trail connection to the GNT. Consider when population density warrants addition of facilities.
- Replace play equipment
Add blu lands to the park system as the opportunity arises
Improve with:-Savannah restoration-Trails-Parking
- Replace play equipment
Arena and Activity Center (55+)
Improvements
needed consider:
-Repair and update
-Rebuild
-Integrate with
potential new
community center
Add future neighborhood park and/or trail connections to nearby parks along with residential development
Add future neighborhood parks along with residential development
UNDEVELOPED PARK
PUBLIC/PRIVATE OPEN SPACE
URBAN SERVICE AREA
OTHER EXISTING TRAILS
OTHER FUTURE TRAILS
SCHOOLS
PARKS AND CONSERVATION AREAS
ARENA AND ACTIVITY CENTER 55+
Page 101 of 240
Chapter 3: The System Today 34 TodayElk River Parks and Recreation Today
Elk River has a growing and engaging parks and recreation system that meets
the needs of many residents and contributes to the character and identity of the
community. Neighborhood parks provide opportunity for residents walk, or
bike short distances to utilize them. Destination and area-wide parks serve as
gathering spots for the entire region and are becoming increasingly popular.
Recreational offerings appeal to community members of all ages. The city is host
to many unique recreation opportunities, including outstanding mountain biking
and cross country skiing facilities. Active youth athletic associations make good
use of the sports facilities and residents recognize the value of good maintenance.
At the same time, Elk River is a growing and changing community. Just as the
parks and recreation system of twenty years ago would not adequately serve the
community today, new parks and recreation programs and improvements will be
needed to serve the community for the next twenty years. Providing safe access
to parks and trails, continuing to maintain facilities at a high level, and preserving
the lakes, rivers, and other natural features that define the city are all challenges
Elk River will need to meet in the future.
What We are Doing Well
• High resident satisfaction.
• Accessible neighborhood parks in the urban service area.
• Clean, safe, well-maintained parks.
• High quality, unique park activities.
• Strong and varied recreation programs.
• Access to natural areas for all residents.
What We Need to Do
• City parks must keep pace with growth in the community.
• Better connect to trails, parks, schools, downtown, and other destinations
for walkers and bicyclists.
• More active natural resource management.
• Better integrate arts into the park system.
• Provide more opportunities for access to the Elk River and the Mississippi
River.
• Partnerships are good but can be further developed to improve park and
recreation offerings for residents.
• Ensure maintenance is sustainable by matching resources with future needs
and desires.
• Continue to support volunteer efforts to ensure continuation of volunteer
support.
Page 102 of 240
Chapter 4
Framework for the Future
Tomorrow’s Parks
35 City of Elk River - Parks and Recreation Master Plan
Introduction
The findings of the needs assessment show that the City of Elk River is working
hard to develop and maintain a great park and recreation system. The community
surveys indicate that residents recognize the importance of parks and generally
support the current direction the system is going. Finally, the city offers a wide
range of recreation opportunities, from day camps for kids to solitary hikes in the
woods. Elk River’s park system provides places to play, ski, compete, or just sit and
watch the river.
Elk River is a growing and changing community, which means the city has to have
a plan to ensure that the parks and recreation system continues to meet the needs
of its residents in the future. New parks and facilities will be needed, current parks
will need upgrades, trail expansion and ongoing maintenance will continue, and
programs must adapt to evolving community interests.
Elk River’s Powered by Nature brand is derived in part from the city’s connections
to the outdoors but also by where the heart is powered by its nature. This plan sets
out directions to ensure that Powered by Nature accurately represents the city and
its residents for years to come.
Page 103 of 240
City of Elk River - Parks and Recreation Master Plan Chapter 4: Tomorrow’s Parks 36 tomorrowFramework Plan
The Framework Plan is a summary of ‘big picture’ priorities for the future
and establishes the foundation for the master plan recommendations and the
development of focus area plans. In addressing the key needs identified in the
System Needs Assessment, the Framework Plan consists of six initiatives for the
future:
1. Improve Existing Parks and Facilities.
2. Maintain our Park Assets at a High Level.
3. Strengthen Trail Connections.
4. Visually and/or physically connect to the Elk and Mississippi Rivers.
5. Provide Engaging Recreational Programming for the Entire Community.
6. Preserve Natural Resources and Greenways.
Improve Existing Parks and Facilities
The city continues to develop a diverse park system that meets the continually
changing needs of the community today. The current park system is also a
fantastic base on which to build the park system for the future.
Neighborhood parks should continue to be the parks residents choose for daily
use. These parks will continue to need attention and investment as use continues
to grow.
Residents have gravitated heavily to the community parks, making them excellent
opportunities for further development into destination parks that attract people
from the region.
Facilities, buildings, and athletic complexes throughout the system should
continue to be updated, and expanded to meet the changing needs of residents.
Park facilities need to be evaluated and modified or removed to create a sustainable
park system.
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37 City of Elk River - Parks and Recreation Master Plan
Maintain our Park Assets at a High Level
Park maintenance received high satisfaction marks from the community. As Elk
River grows, new parks will need to be developed at the same time that existing
facilities will need ongoing upkeep. Since parks represent an investment in the
community, maintenance efforts are the best way to protect those investments.
Dedicating appropriate resources to park maintenance pays off in the long run by
lengthening the life span of capital investments and keeping facilities safe.
Strengthen Trail Connections
Trails are the most desired park feature in Elk River, according to community input.
Providing a complete trail network with connections between neighborhoods,
schools, downtown, as well as to other parks and the rivers would give people safe
routes to significant destinations in the city.
The Great Northern Trail (GNT) acts as a spine through the community, offering
cyclist and pedestrian connections from the north end of Elk River through
Woodland Trails Park and nearly reaching the core school area. Neighborhoods,
particularly those east of Highway 169 would also benefit from better connections
the GNT.
Highway 169 is a barrier to trail usage and many residents report having to drive
to the GNT. In addition, connecting north to Zimmerman and Princeton would
improve the GNT as a regional connector and would elevate it from being a
nice community feature to being a vital community and regional asset. The city
should consider taking a leadership role in completing this regional paved non-
motorized trail.
Connect to the Rivers
The Mississippi River and the Elk River, along with Orono Lake, represent some
of the finest natural resources in the city. Residents expressed a strong association
with the city’s water features and they take advantage of the rivers and the lake
for recreation. With fishing at Orono Park, the concert series at Rivers Edge
Commons, boating from Babcock Park, and nature walks at Bailey Point Nature
Preserve and Camp Cozy, many recreational opportunities exist along the water.
Opportunities exist to strengthen both the physical connections and views
to the rivers. Potential trails along the river could significantly strengthen the
Mississippi River Trail (a nationally recognized designated bicycle and pedestrian
trail that traverses the shores of the Mississippi River in the United States) as well
as improve the general trail network in Elk River.
Protecting property along the rivers will also ensure connection for residents for
generations to come. In addition to trails, locations that offer river views, such
as the Mississippi River Bluff lands in the southern portion of the community
should be expanded.
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City of Elk River - Parks and Recreation Master Plan Chapter 4: Tomorrow’s Parks 38 tomorrowProvide Engaging Programing for the Entire
Community
The city offers a wide range of recreation offerings. These programs strengthen
community ties, give children and adults activities to keep them engaged, and
promote learning and physical activity. The Parks and Recreation Department
should continue to build on the current programming of events, senior activities,
athletics, and youth-focused camps and classes. As the community grows and
changes, it will remain important to fine tune and adapt the program offerings to
stay relevant to the community’s evolving needs.
Preserve Natural Resources and Greenways
The natural environment remains an important asset to the city and its residents.
Working to make sure every resident has close access to open space, natural
features, and nature-based recreation will ensure this vital characteristic of the
city is preserved for future generations.
Elk River has opportunities now to ensure the natural character is preserved by
planning for and protecting habitat and open space before development expands.
Conserving natural resources is not a luxury more fully-developed communities
enjoy, so foresight is necessary on the part of the city to maintain open space.
Once open space is gone it is extremely difficult and costly to bring back.
Page 106 of 240
Chapter 5
Initiatives, Recommendations, & Strategies
How We Get There
39 City of Elk River - Parks and Recreation Master Plan Chapter 5: How We Get There
Introduction
Building on the city’s Powered by Nature brand, Elk River Parks and Recreation
is pursuing a series of initiatives to provide high quality facilities, recreation
opportunities, and a diverse park system for residents and visitors. The concept of
sustainability, or maintaining environmental, social and economic requirements
that meet the needs of present and future generations, is an underlying value that
crosses all of the initiatives.
Initiatives
1. Improve Existing Parks and Facilities
The city will continue working with their current inventory of parks and
facilities and will look for opportunities to make strategic improvements.
2. Maintain Park Assets at a High Level
The city will protect its investments and recognize the level of effort and
resources necessary to keep park and facilities safe and free of deterioration.
3. Strengthen Trail Connections
The city will provide active and independent recreation for all ages with trail
features that are highly desired by the community.
4. Connect to the Rivers
The city will capitalize on the unique natural features of the community and
provide residents with water based experiences.
5. Provide Engaging Recreational Programming for the Entire Community
The city will strengthen its community ties, provide equitable recreation
opportunities, and promote learning and physical activity for residents.
6. Preserve Natural Resources and Greenways
The city will uphold Elk River’s natural character and protect the environment
for plants, animals, and future generations.
These six initiatives connect to recommendations and associated strategies. Some
recommendations and strategies address multiple initiatives.
Page 107 of 240
Chapter 5: How We Get There 40 getting thereRecommendations & Strategies
Initiative 1 Improve existing parks and facilities
Residents appreciate the diverse park amenities in the Elk River system.
Neighborhood Parks are the building blocks of the park system and provide for
everyday use. Neighborhoods in the southern part of the city are well served by
these neighborhood parks but they are of varying age and require updates.
Community parks are destinations and serve as gathering and event spaces for
residents and visitors. Special use parks provide opportunities for unique, high-
quality recreation in a natural setting. Together these park types form a system
that contributes to the high quality of life for residents.
The city, Parks and Recreation Department staff, partners, and volunteers have
dedicated significant resources, thought, time, and effort into developing the
parks. They will continue to act as stewards of the park system, which means they
are dedicated to maintaining a healthy system that builds on past successes and
manages the parks for the future of the community.
Recommendations
1. Add new parks along with population growth.
Strategies:
• Expand the Youth Athletic Complex to meet the demand for additional
athletic facilities as the population grows.
• Improve undeveloped parks as community growth creates demand for
additional park facilities.
Page 108 of 240
41 City of Elk River - Parks and Recreation Master Plan Chapter 5: How We Get There
• Add park land along with community development.
▶As development occurs at the conclusion of gravel mining, new parks
will be needed to serve new users. Parks and open space can act as an
organizing framework and significant amenity for future development.
Though the nature of development post-gravel mining has not yet
been defined, the following park and open space features should be
considered:
·Greenways that incorporate natural resources, stormwater
management, and trails that connect to the Great Northern Trail
and Woodland Trails Park.
·Community recreation and open space resources adjacent to
Woodland Trails Park. Consider adding a recreational lake, ideally
connected to Woodland Trails Park.
·Add neighborhood parks and athletic facilities as needed based on
expected population and density.
▶ In the northern part of the city, retain land for parks in neighborhoods.
▶Provide parks as necessary in the Focused Area Study (FAST) to
support new development.
▶Add a neighborhood park and/or improve trail connections to
Meadowvale Heights Park, Camp Cozy Park, and Woodland Trails
Park from the northwest portion of the urban service area along with
development.
▶Consider the Fairgrounds for inclusion in the park system should the
land become available.
2. Focus resources by eliminating duplicated and underutilized park facilities
with poor access.
Strategies:
• Research park acquisition history, and where allowable, sell, vacate, or
partner with neighbors to remove the following parks from the park system:
▶Baldwin
▶North Terrace
▶Meadow
▶Elk Hills Green Space
▶Property south of Ridgewood on 191 ½ Avenue (75-432-0101)
3. Respond to changing recreation trends.
Strategies:
• Meet changing recreation needs by adding key facilities such as a skate park,
splash pad, and pickleball courts.
• Complete needed improvements to specific parks. Prioritize improvements
based on replacement needs and available funding.
• Provide restroom facilities in all signature parks (Orono Park/Dave
Anderson Athletic Complex, Lion John Weicht Park, Woodland Trails
Page 109 of 240
Chapter 5: How We Get There 42 getting thereNeighborhood Parks Service Area
In Elk River residential development within the urban service area is at
a density that will support a neighborhood park at a 10-minute walking
distance, or a half-mile service radius. Most areas are well served. Because
the urban service area is largely developed with little vacant land available
to create new parks, emphasis will be on improving connectivity to existing
parks and providing basic neighborhood park facilities as undeveloped
parks become developed.
North of the urban service area residential development is not at a density
that supports walking distance neighborhood parks. Larger lots in this area
provide for private recreation, or residents can drive to larger, community
parks within the urban service area. In some areas cluster developments
create neighborhoods that need neighborhood park facilities but may not
have the population to justify a neighborhood park. To meet park needs
outside of the urban service area the City of Elk River shall:
• Provide high quality, drive-to, ‘signature’ parks that meet the needs of
the entire community within the urban service area.
• Provide non-motorized trail connections between neighborhoods,
natural resource areas, parks, and the Great Northern Trail.
• Strategically locate and acquire land for future park development.
• Provide neighborhood parks outside a rate of 1.5 mile service radius,
so that most residents live within an easy bike ride or 30 minute walk
of neighborhood recreation. These parks will be natural-resource
based, be linked by recreational trail systems, and provide minimal
facilities such as children’s play areas and a mowed flexible field
space. Recreation facilities should be developed when 300 or more
households within cluster developments or on lots less than 2 acres
are located within 1.5 miles of the park.
1/2 Mile
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43 City of Elk River - Parks and Recreation Master Plan Chapter 5: How We Get There
Park, Youth Athletic Complex).
4. Continue to provide recreation opportunities that appeal across
generations.
Strategies:
• Provide safe, accessible walking, jogging, running, and biking loops within
parks and throughout the entire trail network.
• Continue to provide hiking access to high quality natural areas.
• Improve access to water-oriented recreation with beaches, docks, boat
launches, fishing opportunities, etc.
• Incorporate fitness opportunities into parental observation areas around
playgrounds.
• Promote activities that can be done with friends and/or family.
• Explore opportunities to provide affordable golf within the city.
5. Design for universal accessibility.
Strategies:
• Meet Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements for buildings
and recreational facilities.
• Consider adding a miracle field to the system.
• Where feasible, provide accessibility that goes beyond ADA requirements
by providing facilities such as accessible beach and boat access, accessible
recreational trails, and programs for adaptive recreation.
6. Increase access to indoor recreation.
Strategies:
• Support the efforts of partners such as the school district, athletic
organizations, and others for a field house and/or domed artificial turf fields.
• Partner with the school district to provide access to indoor gymnasium space.
• Work with the Y to expand the partnership for indoor aquatics, fitness
classes, and recreational sports.
• Conduct a Comprehensive Recreation Facilities Study to evaluate the
Activity Center (55+), the Arena, and Lions Park Center to determine if
they should be renovated, replaced on their current site, or consolidated into
a centrally located facility.
▶Lion John Weicht Park is a potential location for an Arena.
▶If the Arena is to be relocated, consider the old Arena site for a new
Page 111 of 240
Chapter 5: How We Get There 44
Community Center and Activity Center (+55).
7. Improve outdoor athletic facilities.
Strategies:
• Make improvements to the Youth Athletic Complex, Oak Knoll, and Dave
Anderson Athletic Complex.
• Improve partnership with schools to provide access to athletic fields and
facilities.
• Provide a high quality destination baseball field. Options include:
▶Improve Hale’s Field near Oak Knoll Park (as a city project or in
partnership with the school district)
• Support efforts of partners such as the school district, athletic organizations,
and others to consider the addition of artificial turf field(s) for uses such as
soccer, football, lacrosse, and rugby.
8. Creating high quality “Signature Parks”. Signature parks will be:
• Woodland Trails
• Orono Park
• Dave Anderson Athletic Complex
• Youth Athletic Complex
• Lion John Weicht Park
• Rivers Edge Commons
getting therePage 112 of 240
45 City of Elk River - Parks and Recreation Master Plan Chapter 5: How We Get There
Signature Park Concepts
Signature park concepts illustrate desired improvements. They are provided to
give a sense of the type, scale, and location of future improvements. Concepts are
presented for Woodland Trails, Orono Park, Dave Anderson Athletic Complex,
Youth Athletic Complex, Lion John Weicht Park, and Rivers Edge Commons.
Orono Park and Dave Anderson Athletic Complex
Orono Park and Dave Anderson Athletic Complex will build on the current
success and momentum as a destination park in Elk River.
• Nature play features and a splash pad will be added next to the existing
playground to create a play zone for children of all ages.
• Fitness machines will be nearby for use by parents watching their children.
• Trail loops will connect different features of the park and allow for a strolling
experience for park users.
• A skatepark will be constructed at the north end of the park and will connect
to the rest of the park by trail.
• Kayak and canoe rentals will allow beachgoers to get out on the water.
• Concessions and flush restrooms will serve Orono Park users and athletes
and spectators at Dave Anderson Athletic Complex.
• The off-leash dog area will expand to incorporate more varied open and
shaded areas for dogs and owners.
• Parking will be expanded and configured to separate boat and playground
uses and to provide additional parking.
The transition of the existing ball field in the north to a miracle field will welcome
people of all abilities to Elk River. Miracle fields are rubber, wheelchair and walker
accessible fields. The shorter dimensions of the field will also allow trail loops,
which are desired features, throughout the park instead of simply providing out-
and-back trails.
The County Fairgrounds play an important role for Orono Park and Dave
Anderson Athletic Complex, both as an open space and as parking support for
the ballfields. It is an important partnership to the city and future development
should consider the potential for shared parking and incorporation of expanded
park and recreation opportunities.
Page 113 of 240
Chapter 5: How We Get There 46 getting thereSkate park
Move Power Lines if possible
Relocated fishing pier
Miracle field
Beach House/Concessions/Canoe & Kayak Rentals
Pickleball Court
Refurbish Picnic Shelters
Basketball
Close road to separate boat
uses from playground/beach
and to improve picnic/passive
area
Expand Beach Sand
Dog Park / Expansion
Additional parking to
support Dave Anderson
Athletic Complex,
playground, beach, and
dog park
Relocate Sand Volleyball Courts
YMCA
Dave Anderson
Athletic
Complex Fields
Nature Based Play Area in Trees
Splash Pad
Provide exercise features for
parents along path
Concessions/ New Shelter/ Flush Toilets
Playground
Develop trail loops
Develop trail loops
Playground Expansion Area
Figure 5.1 Signature Park Concept Orono Park/ Dave Anderson Athletic Complex
To trail connection at Hwy 10 Bridge
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47 City of Elk River - Parks and Recreation Master Plan Chapter 5: How We Get There
Youth Athletic Complex (YAC)
The expansion of the YAC will serve the city’s athletic facility needs as the
population grows. Elk River has already experienced significant population
growth since the last ballfields at YAC were built 18 years ago, resulting in
increased demand for multi-use and softball fields.
Expansion of the YAC at the current location works well as the city looks to
the future. Development of the Focused Area Study area will provide visitors
with easily accessible dining, shopping, and recreation options. Anticipated land
needed for expansion of the YAC leaves 75-80% of the land to the north for
industrial land uses and uses the land furthest from Jarvis Street, which is the least
desirable land from a development standpoint. Other benefits of locating the
athletic complex next to industrial land uses include parking efficiencies, different
use times, which will reduce traffic impacts, and fewer adjacency concerns with
crowd noise and lighting.
The YAC plan expands the footprint of the facility. In order to maximize the
available multi-use field space, 165th is re-routed to meet Jarvis Street when it
extends north. Expansion also improves maintenance for the fields as they can be
rotated and rested to prevent overuse. An additional softball pinwheel will provide
dedicated facilities for softball and will allow for larger tournaments to be hosted
at the YAC. Alternately if Hale’s Field will not be upgraded to a destination field,
facilities for the different levels of baseball could be built in the north, and the
existing south pinwheel could be dedicated to softball.
Support facilities such as expanded paved parking, maintenance sheds, concessions,
restrooms with flush toilets, water, batting cages, a storm safe room, loop trails,
and playgrounds are provided to improve the players’ and spectators’ experience.
Page 115 of 240
Chapter 5: How We Get There 48
Future
County
Road
City Owned Property
-Guided Industrial which allows park uses-
High Quality Lighted
Softball Fields
Batting Cages
Parking lot to serve Softball Wheel
and Soccer / FB fields
Pave Parking Lot
Perimeter Trail
Covered dugouts
90’ Basepath Lighted
Baseball Fields
Complete building upgrades and
add restrooms and water
Park Sign Future County Road(per Elk River Comprehensive Plan)Expansion of lighted open field
(soccer/FB/Lax/Etc.) area
Trail with boardwalk over wetland
Existing
Lighted
Field
Playground
Playground
165th
Shed / Maintenance / Storage
Loop Trail
Shed / Maintenance / Storage
Future Industrial
Development
Future Industrial
Development
Future Industrial
Development
Future Industrial
Development
Future Industrial
Development
Concessions / Restrooms / Storm Shelter
P
P
P
*
Park Sign
Former 165th Alignment
Realigned 165th
At 27-30 Acres, the YAC Expansion Area
takes 22-25% of the available land in the
City Owned Property immediately north of
the current YAC boundaries, leaving 120+
acres for future industrial development.
An alternative layout
involves a pinwheel
of high quality 60-75’
basepath lighted
baseball fields and
a 90’ basepath
destination baseball
field. The lighted
open field expansion
would feature
overlapping fields.
YAC Park
Expansion
Existing YAC Park
Private
getting thereFigure 5.2 Signature Park Concept Youth Athletic Complex
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49 City of Elk River - Parks and Recreation Master Plan Chapter 5: How We Get There
*Potential building location
Sign Manage parking along Watson StreetIncorporate the Big Tooth Ridge
Parkland and the Great Northern Trail
connection into Woodland Trails
Develop strategies
for mitigating the
impacts of mining/
mining expansion
on Woodland Trails
Develop trailheads
with resting areas,
wayfinding, and
information along the
Great Northern Trail.
Develop trailheads with
resting areas, wayfinding,
and information along the
Great Northern Trail.
Figure 5.3 Signature Park Concept Woodland Trails
Woodland Trails
Improvements to Woodland Trails will include construction of a small building that will act as a warming house and a
location for environmental programs, and a maintenance and storage facility for park equipment. Improved wayfinding
at the entrance will welcome regional users arriving from Elk Lake Road or the Great Northern Trail. The park will
formally incorporate Big Tooth Ridge, a park that has functioned as an extension of Woodland Trails. As mining gets
closer to the park, invasive species removal and prevention continues, and tree diseases are combated, the park needs an
in-depth natural resources and forestry plan. After mining concludes, consider integrating additional parkland, a lake
feature at the southern end of the mining district, and greenways connecting from future neighborhoods to the park.
With Woodland Trails’ unique recreation offerings, significant size, regional trail access, and habitat as part of a bigger
unique ecosystem, it is a strong candidate for regional park status through the state.
Page 117 of 240
Chapter 5: How We Get There 50
Trail Loops Stormwater Feature Expand playground in
partnership with Boys & Girls
Club
Relocate and
redesign
amphitheater/
stage space
with open sight
lines and lake
backdrop
The current Lions
Park Building is in need
of significant upgrades
or replacement. The long
term plan for this location
will be determined based
on the findings and
reccommendations of the
Elk River Facilities Study
currently underway.
Create forebay to reduce
sediment buildup in main lake
area and improve water quality
Better define wet/dry edges
Art Walk
Connect to future development
Connect to Schools
getting thereFigure 5.4 Signature Park Concept Lion John Weicht Park
Lion John Weicht Park
The signature feature of Lion John Weicht Park is Lion’s Park Center, the city’s center for indoor recreation programs.
Today, Lions Park Center is a valuable community resource that does not meet community needs for programs. The
city is currently undertaking a comprehensive facilities study to assess Lions Park Center, the Arena, and the Activity
Center (55+) and recommending improvements or locations for new facilities. If Lions Park Center remains in
its current location, significant upgrades are needed. In addition to building improvements, improving the park’s
wetland habitat by creating a forebay to improve water quality and decrease dredging needs in the larger pond. By
better shaping the wetland features the dry portions of the park can be improved as well, creating distinct uplands
and wetlands. Recommended improvements to the uplands include walking trail loops and trail connections to
schools and downtown. An “art walk” displaying sculpture and other art would work well as an upgrade to this park.
The amphitheater will be relocated and redesigned as an open stage to take advantage of views of the water.
If Lions Park Center is relocated, this park may be considered as a location for other facilities. If no indoor recreation
facilities buildings will be located at the park, expansion of the natural areas and walking trails should be considered.
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51 City of Elk River - Parks and Recreation Master Plan Chapter 5: How We Get There
Rivers Edge Commons
Rivers Edge Commons is located in downtown Elk River at the junction of the
Elk River and Mississippi Rivers. The park was constructed in 2007 and features
a hillside performance venue and a street level plaza with a popular in-grade
fountain that is both a focal point and interactive play element. The park is a
successful connection to the river and has strengthened downtown’s long term
viability. The commons is home to a successful summer concert series, movies in
the park, and special events that bring over 20,000 people to downtown annually.
The venue’s overwhelming popularity has lead to performance seating regularly
filling to capacity and beyond.
Recommended improvements include expanding the seating and performance
areas to the west, a second upper plaza and shelter, a stormwater waterfall, and an
ADA accessible, seasonal dock. Long-term, as opportunities become available,
consideration of future expansion should be considered.
Page 119 of 240
Chapter 5: How We Get There 52
Park Expansion Concept
EXPANDED SEATING
WITH LIMESTONE
REMOVE/REGRADE
ALLEYWAY
STEPS
TO RIVER
LANDING
STORMWATER
WATERFALL
PERMEABLE
PAVERS
BRIDGE
NO CHANGE
Elk River Commons
version 4.15.15
STEPS
CURVED RETAINING WALLS
- decorative railing
STORMWATER
WATERFALL
ACCESS RIVER
•formal stairs to landing
•informal stone steppers into water
•ADA ramp - future option
•fl oating seasonal dock (DNR review required)
UPPER PLAZA
•add plaza
•shelter
•open for bleachers
UTILITIES
•relocate light control box/cable box
•consolidate electrical
STAGE AREA
•Enlarge stage
CREATE STRONGER EDGE
•restore slope with prairie plantings
shelter
ADA ramp as future option
landing set
above ordinary
high water level
long
term
park
expansion
area
NO
CHANGE TO
GAZEBO
getting thereFigure 5.5 Signature Park Concept Rivers Edge Commons
Page 120 of 240
53 City of Elk River - Parks and Recreation Master Plan Chapter 5: How We Get There
Initiative 2 Maintain Our Park Assets at a High Level
Based on survey responses and conversations with Elk River residents, it is clear
the maintenance of the city parks is of high quality. From Woodland Trails and
Hillside City Park to the Youth Athletic Complex and Bailey Point Nature
Preserve, the many hours of volunteer time donated to the city help create a
system of quality parks and recreational opportunities that is out of reach many
cities of comparable size and population.
It is important to recognize the hard work and resources that go into maintaining
high quality athletic facilities, park and trail systems. If the park system grows to
the north with new neighborhoods, dedicated resources and staff must grow as
well.
Recommendations
1. Continue to ensure the safety upgrades.
Strategies:
• Annually inspect all parks, buildings, restrooms, picnic shelters, ball fields,
courts, outdoor ice rinks, parking lots, trails, etc.
• Commit to operating budgets that result in well-maintained parks, trails, and
facilities. The annual maintenance operating budgets should address natural
resource and restoration efforts such as buckthorn removal, prescribed
burn program for oak savanna and prairie landscapes, and a park forest
management plan.
• Consider the addition of a certified forester and a horticulturalist to parks
professional staff.
• Develop tiered maintenance level standards for routine maintenance to
guide the most intensive maintenance to the least intensive.
• Annually prepare a five-year Capital Improvement Plan program for all park
facilities.
2. Develop and formalize maintenance priorities.
Strategies:
• Write maintenance priorities and schedules as part of the parks maintenance
manual.
• Develop tiered maintenance level standards for routine maintenance to
guide the most intensive maintenance to the least intensive.
• Retain flexibility needed to respond to changing conditions and maintenance
needs.
• Prioritize snow removal in parks and facilities, and areas which become
dangerous without immediate attention.
• Standardize athletic field maintenance standards.
Page 121 of 240
Chapter 5: How We Get There 54 getting there3. Reduce on-going maintenance costs over time.
• Replace outdated park equipment and materials with high-efficiency models
and high-quality, low-maintenance materials.
• Use the latest technologies to improve efficiencies and reduce costs.
• Have a plan.
4. Ensure the cleanliness of parks and park facilities.
Strategies:
• Regular garbage collection.
• Cleaning of activity buildings, picnic shelters, and restrooms.
• Removal of graffiti and repair of vandalism as required.
• Response to all emergency problems.
• More seasonal and/or part time temporary staff throughout the year.
5. Support volunteers.
Strategies:
• Designate volunteers allowed to use city equipment.
• Train volunteers to use city equipment.
• Provide equipment, tools, and materials needed for volunteer use.
• Develop a program oriented towards engaging youth volunteers.
• Partner with other community organizations for volunteer events (such as
planting, clean up, invasive species removal, natural resource assessment) to
raise awareness and recruit new park volunteers.
Page 122 of 240
55 City of Elk River - Parks and Recreation Master Plan Chapter 5: How We Get There
Initiative 3 Strengthen Trail Connections
Trails are the most desired feature in park systems nationally, and Elk River is no
exception. The historic Elk River neighborhoods and commercial areas lack trails,
and connecting them can be difficult due to road and right-of-way dimensions,
lack of public land ownership, and barriers such as railroads and highways.
Development patterns have brought trails to new neighborhoods, but many
remain unconnected to the larger trail network.
The Great Northern Trail is a remarkable asset for the community and can become
the trail “spine” connecting neighborhoods, schools, parks, and downtown. Trail
loops are highly desired in parks as they are an activity for all ages and provide an
accessible way to get active.
Recommendations
1. Create a connected trail network by closing gaps between existing trails.
Strategies:
• Provide pedestrian-bike crossings of Highway 169 at one-half to one mile
intervals. Provide grade separated crossings where feasible.
• Create a north/south spine east of Highway 169 from Main Street to 221st
that links the Highway 169 crossings. These connections could be completed
or supplemented through the linking of the natural greenway system.
• Close trail gaps linking the pedestrian overpass at 189th Avenue to the school
campus complex.
• Prioritize efforts on closing trail gaps to schools, downtown, transit, and the
following parks:
▶Woodland Trails Park
▶Hillside Park
▶Orono Park
▶Dave Anderson Athletic Complex
▶Youth Athletic Complex
▶Lion John Weicht Park
▶River’s Edge Commons
• Provide trail access along south side of Hwy 10 from Proctor to Orono Park
when the Hwy 10 bridge is replaced, currently scheduled by MnDOT for
2017. Be sure to include a trail with the new bridge and consider a trail
under the bridge to connect both sides of the lake.
• Link the school complex and Lion John Weicht Park to Main Street on
Proctor and/or Jackson.
• Ensure safe walking and biking routes to schools.
• Other connections:
▶Twinlakes Estates and Trott Brook Farms neighborhoods to Twin Lakes
Elementary
▶Trail in Birch Meadow Park
Page 123 of 240
Chapter 5: How We Get There 56 getting thereHOULTON FARM
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!NORTH TERRACE
PARK
WOODLAND TRAILS PARK
HILLSIDE
CITY PARK
CAMP
COZY
PARK
MEADOWVALE
HEIGHTS PARK
YOUTH ATHLETIC
COMPLEX
RICE LAKE
PARK
BURR
OAK
PARK
ORONO
PARK
BIRCH MEADOW
PARK
SEDGE
MEADOW
PARK
OAK KNOLL
ATHETIC COMPLEX
ALBA
RIDGE
PARK
LIONS PARK
HARRIS
ISLAND
PARK
WINDSOR
PARK
BABCOCK
PARK
ROYAL VALLEY
PARK
HIGHLANDS PARK
DAVE ANDERSON
ATHLETIC COMPLEX
KLEIVER
MARSH
PARK
RIDGEWOOD
PARK
OXBOW
PARK
MISS. OAKS
PARK
DEERFIELD HILL PARK
WEST OAKS
PARK
RIVERPLACE
PARK
COUNTRY
CROSSING
PARK
FRESNO PARK
KLEIVER POINT
PARK
BARRINGTON PARK
MEADOW PARK
RIVERS
EDGE
COMMONS
BALDWIN
PARK
BAILEY POINT
NATURE PRESERVE
WOODLAND TRAILS PARK
HILLSIDE
CITY PARK
CAMP
COZY
PARK
MEADOWVALE
HEIGHTS PARK
YOUTH ATHLETIC
COMPLEX
RICE LAKE
PARK
BURR
OAK
PARK
ORONO
PARK
BIRCH MEADOW
PARK
SEDGE
MEADOW
PARK
OAK KNOLL
ATHETIC COMPLEX
ALBA
RIDGE
PARK
LIONS PARK
HARRIS
ISLAND
PARK
WINDSOR
PARK
BABCOCK
PARK
ROYAL VALLEY
PARK
HIGHLANDS PARK
DAVE ANDERSON ATHLETIC COMPLEX
KLEIVER
MARSH
PARK
RIDGEWOOD
PARK
OAK SAVANNA
PARK
OXBOW
PARK
MISS. OAKS
PARK
DEERFIELD HILL PARK
WEST OAKS
PARK
RIVERPLACE
PARK
COUNTRY
CROSSING
PARK
FRESNO PARK
KLEIVER POINT
PARK
BARRINGTON PARK
MEADOW PARK
RIVERS
EDGE
COMMONS
NORTH TERRACE
PARK
BALDWIN
PARK
BAILEY POINT
NATURE PRESERVEGREAT NORTHERN TRAILELK HILLS
GREEN SPACE
ELK HILLS
GREEN SPACE
KLEIVER LAKE
FIELDS PARK
KLEIVER LAKE
FIELDS PARK
TROTT BROOK
FARMS PARK
TROTT BROOK
FARMS PARKELK LAKE181ST TWIN LAKES205TH
RA
N
C
H
209TH JARVISVIKING
PROCTORQUINCYMISSISSIPPI
221ST
MAIN
165THTYLER175TH
JARVISDODGEJACKSON4TH
SCHOOL
TWIN LAKESSMITHFILLMOREWACOIRVING193RD
198TH
ORON
O
5TH
197TH
LINEBUSINESS CENTER
3RD
GATES171STFREEP
O
RT
UPLAND192ND
PROCTORINDUSTRIAL201ST
MAIN
WACOTWIN LAKESMAIN197THBROOK192NDMEADOWVALERAN
C
H
221ST
ZEBULONPROCTORMISSISSIPPI CLEVELANDJARVIS205TH
UPLAND205TH
MEA
D
O
W
V
A
L
E
221ST
ELK RIVER SPORTSMAN’S CLUB
SHERBURNE CO.
FAIRGROUNDS
0 0.5 1Miles¯
169
10
169
10
Link trails to neighborhoods
Work with Zimmerman/Sherburne Co. to develop trail connection to Princeton
Existing MRT route on road
Potential riverfront trail
Anoka/Ramsey Connections
Trails across 169
Future: Post-mining
Develop connection to Girl Scout Camp
TRAIL CONNECTIONS
EXISTING GREAT NORTHERN TRAIL
PRIORITY CONCEPTUAL CONNECTIONS
POTENTIAL GREENWAYS
CONCEPTUAL GREENWAYS
POTENTIAL RIVER TRAIL
CONCEPTUAL FUTURE RIVER TRAIL
Promote Woodland Trails as regional destination in Metro area
UNDEVELOPED PARK
PUBLIC/PRIVATE OPEN SPACE
URBAN SERVICE AREA
OTHER EXISTING TRAILS
OTHER FUTURE TRAILS
EXISTING GRADE SEP. CROSSING
PROPOSED GRADE SEP. CROSSING
PROPOSED BIKE/PED CROSSING
SCHOOLS
PARKS AND CONSERVATION AREAS
Consider North-South Greenway Trail East of 169
Add riverfront trail as the opportunity arises
Figure 5.6 Trail Connectivity
Page 124 of 240
57 City of Elk River - Parks and Recreation Master Plan Chapter 5: How We Get There
▶Trott Brook Trails to Kliever Lake Fields/Marsh
▶Utilize Klievers Marsh Park
2. Make the existing system more usable and improve the user experience.
Strategies:
• Add lighting in key areas. Begin with trailheads, parking lots, and high-use
commuter corridors.
• Provide safe road crossings.
• Add on-road bike facilities to supplement the trail system where opportunities
allow.
• Extend fall, winter, and spring use of trails by plowing designated winter
routes and paved trails within parks.
• Improve safety in locations with dangerous conditions due to traffic volumes,
truck traffic, curves, topography, speed, or width.
• Develop trail loops in existing neighborhood and community parks.
3. Improve signage.
▶Provide standardized wayfinding kiosks at trailheads
▶Provide wayfinding signage; priorities include:
·Connections to/from the Great Northern Trail.
·Downtown area.
·Link between Great Northern Trail and Main Street.
4. Create Connections to the Great Northern Trail.
Strategies:
• Extend the Great Northern Trail to Main Street and the Mississippi River.
▶This may include on- and off-road bicycle facilities, including improved
safety measures for on-road bicycling on Main Street.
• Connect the neighborhoods on the east and west side of Highway 169 to the
Great Northern Trail.
▶Potential future crossings include 221st Street (future road extension).
▶Future Road Connections through the mining area at 205th and 193rd.
▶Trails on 221st, Ranch Road, Meadowvale and 196th.
• Consider grade-separated crossings, such as the one at 189th, when
connecting across significant barriers.
▶Highway 169
▶Highway 10
▶Railroad tracks
5. Extend the Great Northern Trail north.
Strategies:
• Coordinate with Sherburne County, Livonia Township and the Cities of
Zimmerman and Princeton to extend the trail north.
Page 125 of 240
Chapter 5: How We Get There 58 getting there• Connect to the Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge and the Sand Dunes
State Forest.
• Pursue additional regional trail funding by working with Sherburne County
and the state on grant opportunities.
6. Expand the trail system along with community growth.
Strategies:
• Create trail extensions shown on Figure 5.6 Trail Connectivity. Identify and
update priority projects on an annual basis.
• Install trails in neighborhoods as part of the development process.
• Coordinate new trails with city, county, and state road construction and
reconstruction projects.
▶Consider grade-separated crossings at the time of road construction.
▶Build trails and or/sidewalks on all collector and arterial roadways.
·As collector and arterial roads are constructed or rebuilt, build
multi-use trails on both sides of the road where possible. If both
sides are not possible, ensure at least one side has a multi-use trail.
·On rural collector and arterial roads that cannot have trails or
sidewalks, provide paved, wide shoulders, ideally 6-10 feet on both
sides.
·On existing collector and arterial roads, prioritize trails or other
safety measures in places with low visibility or other dangerous
conditions (curves, topographic change, blind entrances, difficult
intersections, etc.). Aim for a trail on one side of the street on all
collector and arterial roads.
• Where feasible, provide paved trails that create community connections in
greenway corridors away from roads.
▶Work towards locating the Mississippi River Trail along the river, as
opportunities arise.
▶Capitalize on opportunities to integrate trail connections with
natural resource/greenway conservation along with new development,
particularly east of Highway 169.
• Develop trail loops in new neighborhoods and community parks.
7. Promote natural surface hiking, cross country skiing, and mountain
biking trail networks in the park system.
Strategies:
• Support efforts to develop mountain bike, cross country skiing, hiking, and
water trails.
• Continue to develop programming, such as mountain bike and cross country
skiing races, that bring people to the trail systems.
Page 126 of 240
59 City of Elk River - Parks and Recreation Master Plan Chapter 5: How We Get There
HOULTON FARM
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!NORTH TERRACE
PARK
WOODLAND TRAILS PARK
HILLSIDE
CITY PARK
CAMP
COZY
PARK
MEADOWVALE HEIGHTS PARK
YOUTH
ATHLETIC
COMPLEX
RICE LAKE PARKBURR OAK PARK
ORONO
PARK
BIRCH MEADOW
PARK
SEDGE MEADOW PARK
OAK KNOLL
ATHETIC COMPLEX
ALBA RIDGE PARK
LIONS PARK
HARRIS
ISLAND
PARK
WINDSOR PARK
BABCOCK
PARK
ROYAL VALLEY PARKHIGHLANDS PARK
DAVE ANDERSON
ATHLETIC COMPLEX
KLEIVER
MARSH
PARK
RIDGEWOOD PARK
OXBOW
PARK
MISS. OAKS
PARK
DEERFIELD HILL PARK
WEST
OAKS
PARK
RIVERPLACE
PARK
COUNTRY
CROSSING
PARK
FRESNO
PARK
KLEIVER POINT
PARK
BARRINGTON
PARK
MEADOW
PARK
RIVERS
EDGE
COMMONS
BALDWIN
PARK
BAILEY POINT
NATURE PRESERVE
WOODLAND TRAILS PARK
HILLSIDE
CITY PARK
CAMP
COZY
PARK
MEADOWVALE HEIGHTS PARK
YOUTH
ATHLETIC
COMPLEX
RICE LAKE PARKBURR OAK PARK
ORONO
PARK
BIRCH MEADOW
PARK
SEDGE MEADOW PARK
OAK KNOLL
ATHETIC COMPLEX
ALBA RIDGE PARK
LIONS PARK
HARRIS
ISLAND
PARK
WINDSOR PARK
BABCOCK
PARK
ROYAL VALLEY PARKHIGHLANDS PARK
DAVE ANDERSON
ATHLETIC COMPLEX
KLEIVER
MARSH
PARK
RIDGEWOOD PARK
OAK SAVANNA
PARK
OXBOW
PARK
MISS. OAKS
PARK
DEERFIELD HILL PARK
WEST
OAKS
PARK
RIVERPLACE
PARK
COUNTRY
CROSSING
PARK
FRESNO
PARK
KLEIVER POINT
PARK
BARRINGTON
PARK
MEADOW
PARK
RIVERS
EDGE
COMMONS
NORTH TERRACE
PARK
BALDWIN
PARK
BAILEY POINT
NATURE PRESERVEGREAT NORTHERN TRAILELK HILLS
GREEN SPACE
ELK HILLS
GREEN SPACE
KLEIVER LAKE
FIELDS PARK
KLEIVER LAKE
FIELDS PARK
TROTT BROOK
FARMS PARK
TROTT BROOK
FARMS PARKELK LAKE181ST TWIN LAKES205THRANCH 209TH JARVISVIKING
PROCTORQUINCYMISSISSIPPI
221ST
MAIN
165THTYLER175TH
JARVISDODGEJACKSON4TH
SCHOOL
TWIN LAKESSMITHFILLMOREWACOIRVING193RD 198TH
ORON
O
5TH
197TH
LINEBUSINESS CENTER
3RD
GATES171STFREEP
ORT
UPLAND192ND
PROCTORINDUSTRIAL201ST
MAIN
WACOTWIN LAKESMAIN197THBROOK192NDMEADOWVALERANCH 221STZEBULONPROCTOR
MISSISSIPPI CLEVELANDJARVIS205TH
UPLAND205TH
MEA
D
O
W
V
A
L
E
221ST ELK RIVER SPORTSMAN’S CLUB
SHERBURNE CO.
FAIRGROUNDS
0 0.5 1Miles¯
169
10
169
10
UNDEVELOPED PARK
PUBLIC/PRIVATE OPEN SPACE
URBAN SERVICE AREA
OTHER EXISTING TRAILS
OTHER FUTURE TRAILS
EXISTING GRADE SEP. CROSSING
PROPOSED GRADE SEP. CROSSING
PROPOSED BIKE/PED CROSSING
SCHOOLS
PARKS AND CONSERVATION AREAS
Existing MRT route on road
Potential riverfront trail
Anoka/Ramsey Connections
CONNECT TO THE RIVERS
RIVERFRONT PARKS AND CONSERVATION AREAS
CONCEPTUAL FUTURE RIVER TRAIL
Promote Woodland Trails as regional destination in Metro areaUNDEVELOPED PARKPUBLIC/PRIVATE OPEN SPACEURBAN SERVICE AREAEXISTING TRAILSFUTURE TRAILSEXISTING GRADE SEP. CROSSINGPROPOSED GRADE SEP. CROSSINGPROPOSED BIKE/PED CROSSINGSCHOOLSPARK
Kelley Farm
Add blu lands to the park system as the opportunity arises
Figure 5.7 Connect to the Rivers
Page 127 of 240
Chapter 5: How We Get There 60 getting thereInitiative 4 Connect to the Rivers
The Elk and Mississippi Rivers serve as important recreation assets for the
community. These assets are from the downtown event space at Rivers Edge
Commons Park to the natural experiences at Bailey Point Nature Preserve, the
beach at Orono Park, to the boat launch at Babcock. These assets need to be
developed further by improving physical access, or places to be near the river,
river views, and movement along the rivers and developing additional ways to
experience them.
Recommendations
1. Improve riverfront connectivity.
Strategies:
• As opportunities arise, consider adding riverfront property to the city’s
park system with priority on properties or easements that allow for linear
connections along the river.
• Maintain a boat launch on the Mississippi and on the Elk River above the
dam. If the existing Mississippi River boat launch is removed with future
Highway 10 improvements, move to another location.
• Consider additional “Quiet Craft” launch opportunities.
• Partner with local businesses, organizations, or schools to provide kayak and
canoe rentals at Orono Park and Bailey Point Nature Preserve. Expand to
other locations as opportunities allow.
• Acquire prairie river bluff lands south of the Focus Area Study, sub area East
Elk River Gateway, as opportunities arise.
• Expand Rivers Edge Commons as opportunities allow.
2. Connect existing riverfront public property with pedestrian and bicycle
trails.
Strategies:
• As opportunities arise, extend a connection from Bailey Point Nature
Preserve to Babcock Park. Consider:
▶Opportunities along the river’s edge.
▶Add on-road bicycle facilities on Angel St., Morton Ave., and Main St.
• Extend the Riverfront trail in conjunction with development, redevelopment,
or other opportunities east from Babcock Park and west from Bailey Point
Nature Preserve.
Page 128 of 240
61 City of Elk River - Parks and Recreation Master Plan Chapter 5: How We Get There
Figure 5.8 Bailey Point Nature Preserve Concept
Shelter
Page 129 of 240
Chapter 5: How We Get There 62 getting there3. Develop Houlton Farm Property.
Strategies:
• Develop hunting rules that allow for trail-based, non-hunting recreation
during hunting season.
• A Planning Committee will oversee planning efforts such as a restoration
management plan and a hunting plan. The hunting plan needs to be approved
by the DNR to ensure the safety of adjacent property owners.
• Provide for passive, natural resource based recreation such as: natural surface
walking trails, informal picnicking, shore fishing, cross country skiing, and
primitive unpaved parking areas.
• Provide river access with natural surface trail connections to the river.
4. Improve Bailey Point Nature Preserve.
Strategies:
• Retain natural character of the Bailey Point Nature Preserve by completing
a restoration management plan for the park.
• Utilize Bailey Point Nature Preserve for nature-based recreation
programming.
• Allow low-impact, outdoor recreational use and nature observation at Bailey
Point Nature Preserve.
• Provide rustic structures (trail barriers, benches, picnic tables, shelter,
fishing platforms, boardwalks, bridges, trash/recycling receptacles, and
informational kiosks) as identified in the Bailey Point Nature Preserve
Master Plan.
• Construct paved trails to follow concept (Figure 5.8).
Page 130 of 240
63 City of Elk River - Parks and Recreation Master Plan Chapter 5: How We Get There
Initiative 5 Provide Engaging Recreational
Programming for the Entire Community
Just as residents may associate emotionally with their neighborhood park, favorite
hiking spot, or frequent bike ride, they are just as attached to their classes, farmers
market, concerts, sports teams, and recreation program instructors.
Elk River provides a wide selection of offerings to community members ranging
from youth and adult athletics, to one-time events, classes, and facility rentals.
Recommendations
1. Provide high quality, diverse recreation program offerings for all ages
Strategies:
• Provide high quality early childhood recreation programs.
• Hold multi-age recreation programs so siblings can attend programs at the
same time and location.
• Provide for families with events, drop-in activities, and intergenerational
activities.
• Focus adult programs on fitness and wellness.
• Increase focus on teen activities. Consider:
▶Developing a volunteer program where teens are offered natural resource
based learning experiences which foster land stewardship.
▶Holding an annual special event for grades 9-12 with music and games.
▶Engaging youth in the teen program design to ensure it is relevant, well
attended, and high quality.
▶Recruiting a teen to participate on the Parks and Recreation Commission
as an advisor or creating a Teen Advisory Board.
▶Foster relationship with baby-boomers and collaborate on activities.
▶Feature youth artists in a concert series.
2. Expand senior programming as the baby-boomers age.
Strategies:
• Provide low impact opportunities for fitness, health, and wellness.
• Evaluate need for expansion of programming at the Activity Center (55+).
• Continue to evaluate Activity Center (55+) financial and use needs to
ensure sustainable operation.
• Develop events and clubs such as bike groups, volunteer opportunities,
photography clubs, and social opportunities.
• Foster relationships with teens and collaborate on activities.
3. Ensure equitable financial access to recreation programs.
Strategies:
• Continue scholarships for low income residents.
• Subsidize equipment rentals, where applicable.
Page 131 of 240
Chapter 5: How We Get There 64 getting thereRecreation Tiered Pricing
One way to address the stress between the city’s need for cost recovery for some of its programs and ensuring
that programs are affordable and accessible to all residents is by pricing its programs according to a tiered pricing
model.
In this model, programs that benefit the entire community are equally available to everyone and are self-directed
would be supported by revenue from the general tax fund, grants, or partnerships.
For programs that benefit both the community and the individual user fees, grants, or sponsorships would cover
anywhere from 25% to 100% of the direct costs. Examples of such programs are senior programs, after school
programs, and summer camps that require instructors, clean-up, and prep time.
For programs that have a highly individual benefit, such as fitness classes and field trips, user fees may pay for
100% or more of the direct costs.
To assure equal opportunity for low-income users, the Parks and Recreation Department offers scholarships for
fee based programs.
0%
100% Tax
supporTed
25%
50%
75%
100%
100% user fee
supporTed of
direcT cosT
HigHly
individual
benefiT
For example: Private
Lessons, Tennis, Dance
MosTly individual
benefiT
For example: Youth Sports, Adult
Athletic Leagues, Swim Lessons, Fitness
individual / coMMuniTy benefiT
For example: Senior & Adult Programs
coMMuniTy individual benefiT
For example: Teen Programs, After School / No School Activities,
Youth Activities, Events
coMMuniTy benefiT
For example: Parkland and Facilities, Playgrounds, Trails, Concerts
Page 132 of 240
65 City of Elk River - Parks and Recreation Master Plan Chapter 5: How We Get There
• Provide low to no cost options.
• Work with partners to provide affordable access to activities like indoor
aquatics or open gym.
4. Improve indoor facilities to hold programs.
Strategies:
• Conduct a Comprehensive Recreation Facilities Study to evaluate the
Activity Center (55+), the Arena, Lions Park Center, and the Trott Brook
Barn to determine if they should be renovated, replaced on their current site,
or consolidated into a centrally-located facility.
▶Consider development of shared Activity Center (55+)/ community
center in a shared building.
▶If Lions Park Center is not replaced with a new facility (either in the
same or another central location), renovate the building.
• Improve partnership with the Y to better meet city recreation program
needs. Specifically:
▶Negotiate for additional swimming passes for Elk River residents.
▶Additional storage.
▶Expanded hours for city use.
▶Stronger city identity.
▶Providing a mechanism for cost recovery when providing city programs
at the Y.
• Continue to partner with Community Education indoor programming
locations.
• When renovating or creating new indoor program locations, create flexible,
adaptable, multi-use spaces and changeable components to adapt with needs
and interests.
• Develop spaces that can function for events such as conferences, weddings,
receptions, parties, trade shows, and other larger gatherings.
5. Host community events that facilitate community interaction and foster
community pride and identity.
Strategies:
• Evolve the Riverfront Concert Series at Rivers Edge Commons to a higher
profile community event that becomes a greater economic benefit.
• Continue to support hosting regional and statewide events such as the 2014
Hockey Day Minnesota, in partnership with the school district, and the
Northwest Suburban Conference Cross Country Running Championships
at the golf course.
• Support family events such as Spooktacular at Halloween and the 4th of July
celebration.
Page 133 of 240
Chapter 5: How We Get There 66 getting there6. Meet changing recreation program trends.
Strategies:
• Provide diverse programming platforms (events, clubs, classes, drop-in
activities).
• Increase weekend and evening offerings.
• Provide activities that do not require intense scheduling.
• Provide more individual and small-group activity options (in contrast to
team sports).
• Increase outdoor, nature-based programming.
• Monitor technological changes and adapt programs (for example: internet
based programs, geocaching, Wi-Fi in the parks).
• Survey users to stay abreast of new and local changes in preferences.
• Continue to have staff and commissioners attend conferences and continuing
education to learn about new strategies for recreation delivery.
7. Continue to evaluate recreation programs and adjust program mix based
on customer feedback, demand, and trends.
Strategies:
• Administer program outcome evaluations.
• Conduct focus groups.
• Periodically review demographics.
• Complete biennial community surveys.
• Develop pricing and cost recovery goals.
• Evaluate and account for staffing needs.
• Solicit feedback from partner organizations and other City departments.
• Continue to foster partnerships.
8. Continue to work with partners to provide high quality recreation
programs and limit program overlap.
Strategies:
• Meet annually with other program providers.
▶School District
▶Neighboring Communities
▶Sherburne County
▶The Y
▶Boys and Girls Club
▶Athletic Organizations
▶Arts Organizations
• Continue to partner with other program providers for efficiencies in
locations and staff costs.
Page 134 of 240
67 City of Elk River - Parks and Recreation Master Plan Chapter 5: How We Get There
Initiative 6 Be Stewards for Natural Resources and
Greenways
Elk River prides itself on its environmental resources and natural character. Many
people choose to live in Elk River because of the access to nature right outside
their front door. Fishing, hunting, hiking, biking, and bird watching are just a few
of the outdoor activities residents enjoy in the city. To ensure these are maintained
for generations to come, efforts should be made to protect the natural resources
that define Elk River for so many people.
Recommendations
1. Protect natural areas in the city
Strategies:
• Acquire or protect through land trusts, conservation easements, partnerships
etc. areas proposed as greenway corridors and/or land identified as high
quality in the Natural Resources Inventory.
• Explore possibility to protect the Gun Club property as a State Scientific
Natural Area as opportunities arise.
• Place 50’ natural riparian buffers around wetland and lakes on all appropriate
public land and parks.
• Reduce impacts of parks and facilities on waterways by implementing best
management practices such as:
▶Rain gardens, water retention, and permeable paving.
▶Minimization of chemicals on turf that will run into water.
▶Shoreline restoration and stabilization.
▶Expand wetland capacity.
2. Maintain high-quality, city-owned natural areas.
Strategies:
• Create and implement management plans for parks such as Camp Cozy,
Woodland Trails, Big Tooth Ridge, Hillside, Meadowvale Heights, Bailey
Point Nature Preserve, Great Northern Trail, and Sedge Meadow.
• Look for opportunities to develop oak savanna and prairie habitat in
appropriate parks.
• Continue to restore natural areas and shorelines within parks.
• Remove invasive species; natural resource assessment.
3. Maintain biodiversity on city-owned parks and open space.
• Control invasive species such as buckthorn.
• Manage for pests and disease such as Emerald Ash Borer and Oak Wilt.
• Plant natives with high value for wildlife.
Page 135 of 240
Chapter 5: How We Get There 68 getting there4. Develop environmental greenways
Strategies:
• Preserve greenways identified in the 2004 City of Elk River – Natural
Resource Inventory as high-quality natural areas. Incorporate trails into
greenways along with new development and as opportunities arise.
• Utilize the conceptual greenway plan within the Natural Resources
Inventory to prioritize resources.
5. Provide natural experiences in parks.
Strategies:
• Incorporate natural areas (wetlands, prairies, woodlands) into new parks,
not as park dedication, especially in the northern part of the city.
• Consider habitat restoration in parks where feasible.
• Expand nature-based recreation programming.
• Implement and demonstrate environmental best practices in parks,
including: rain gardens; permeable paving; native plantings; recycling;
energy efficient buildings, lighting, and fixtures; LED lighting and solar
lighting; green roofs and green walls; and stormwater programs.
6. Encourage private conservation easements.
Strategies:
• Provide educational information to landowners on ecological and economic
benefits and available programs.
Page 136 of 240
69 City of Elk River - Parks and Recreation Master Plan Chapter 6: Implementation
Chapter 6
Priorities, Toolkit, & Using the Plan
Implementation
Introduction
The Parks and Recreation Master Plan is intended to provide direction for the
City Council, the Parks and Recreation Commission, and city staff to guide
them in the big picture decision making that will impact the parks and recreation
system. The purpose of Chapter 6, then, is twofold.
First, the chapter presents priorities for the future. These priorities are the visionary
and new initiatives that the Parks and Recreation Department will pursue, in
collaboration with partners, to meet the present and future needs and desires of
the Elk River community.
The second part of the chapter is the Tool Kit. Each tool in the tool kit is intended
to act as a guide for evaluating the park system and helping with decision-making
both on a system-wide and on a case-by-case basis.
The tool kit includes:
• Parks and Recreation Delivery Guidelines
• Park Classifications and Standards
• Level of Service Analysis
• Funding Sources
• Measuring Progress
Page 137 of 240
Chapter 6: Implementation 70 ImplementatIonPriority Actions and Projects
Priorities are drawn from the recommendations in Chapter 5 and are divided into
two categories: momentum projects and vision projects. Momentum projects are
short- to mid-term projects that create impact, address immediate needs, and are
likely achievable within the current Capital Improvement Plan structure.
Vision projects, on the other hand, are larger, potentially longer-term projects that
require additional research and will require finding additional funding sources
and partnerships. Together, these two project categories provide a summary list
of key actions that will keep Elk River’s parks and recreation system relevant long
into the future.
Costs presented are estimates in 2015 dollars, based on the information in this
system-wide master plan. They are presented to give a general guide to budgeting
needed to achieve the recommendations outlined in this plan. It is anticipated
that improvements will be phased in over the long term and cost estimates will be
refined as individual projects are undertaken.
The priorities are drawn from five of the six topic areas discussed in Chapter
5: improving existing parks, strengthening trail connections, connecting to the
rivers, and natural resource stewardship.
The other priority, maintenance, remains an essential component of a great park
system. Excellence in this area is, in large part, why residents are so satisfied with
Elk River’s parks and recreation system today. A challenging question for the future
is how to change and further develop the system while properly maintaining and
adequately funding it.
These priorities highlight and elevate the very things that make Elk River unique.
They build on and celebrate the city’s active, nature-based identity, strong
community, and dedication to places people love. See the full list of priority
actions and projects on the following pages.
Page 138 of 240
71 City of Elk River - Parks and Recreation Master Plan Chapter 6: Implementation
Park Priority Actions 2015 Cost Estimate Responsibility Initiatives
Orono
Skate Park $400,000 Parks and Recreation with Skate Group Improve Existing Parks and Facilities
Adult Fitness Features $25,000 Parks and Recreation Improve Existing Parks and Facilities
Splash Pad $650,000 Parks and Recreation Improve Existing Parks and Facilities
Restrooms $250,000 Parks and Recreation, Public Works Improve Existing Parks and Facilities
Parking lot paving (to follow concept plan)$600,000 Parks and Recreation, Public Works Improve Existing Parks and Facilities
New and extended trail (to follow concept plan)$425,000 Parks and Recreation Improve Existing Parks and Facilities, Strengthen Trail
Connections, Connect to the Rivers
Youth Athletic Complex
Restrooms $200,000 Parks and Recreation, Public Works Improve Existing Parks and Facilities
Parking Lot Paving $600,000 Parks and Recreation, Public Works Improve Existing Parks and Facilities
Finish Building $75,000 Parks and Recreation with Athletic Groups Improve Existing Parks and Facilities
Maintenance Shed $75,000 Parks and Recreation with Athletic Groups Improve Existing Parks and Facilities
Field Lights – (1-6)$800,000 Parks and Recreation with Athletic Groups Improve Existing Parks and Facilities
Playground $175,000 Parks and Recreation with Athletic Groups Improve Existing Parks and Facilities
Upgrade Irrigation and Well $20,000 Parks and Recreation with Athletic Groups Improve Existing Parks and Facilities
Additional Fencing $5,000 Parks and Recreation with Athletic Groups Improve Existing Parks and Facilities
Woodland Trails Maintenance Shed $100,000 Parks and Recreation with Woodland Trails Volunteers
Improve Existing Parks and Facilities, Strengthen
Trail Connections, Preserve Natural Resources and
Greenways
Neighborhood Parks (various)On-going, based on amenity life-cycle and
replacement needs
Amenity life-cycle
replacement costs - TBD
based on individual park
needs over time
Parks and Recreation Improve Existing Parks and Facilities
Bailey Point Nature Preserve
Nature Preserve Improvements (trailhead, parking
lot, natural resource restoration, picnicking,
signage, boardwalk, bridge, trails, site amenities).
$640,000 Parks and Recreation
Improve Existing Parks and Facilities, Strengthen Trail
Connections, Connect to the Rivers, Preserve Natural
Resources and Greenways
Trails
Trail gaps/neighborhood connections to Great
Northern Trail $3,250,000 Public Works, Planning, Parks and Recreation Strengthen Trail Connections
Complete trail connection between Mississippi
River/Main Street and the Great Northern Trail $1,400,000 Public Works, Planning, Parks and Recreation Strengthen Trail Connections, Connect to the Rivers
Sign trail connections as part of the Signage and
Wayfinding Plan
Based on signage and
wayfinding master plan
(currently in process)
Public Works, Parks and Recreation Strengthen Trail Connections
All Parks Park signage as part of the Signage and Wayfinding
Plan
Based on signage and
wayfinding master plan
(currently in process)
Parks and Recreation Improve Existing Parks and Facilities
Buildings
Comprehensive recreation facilities study to
evaluate the Activity Center (55+), Arena, Lions
Park Center, and the Trott Brook Barn and
determine if they should be renovated, replaced on
their current site, or consolidated into a centrally
located facility
Administration, Parks and Recreation, Planning,
Public Works, ISD 728 Improve Existing Parks and Facilities
Oak Knoll Parking lot upgrades, toilets, lights, bleachers,
better back stops $575,000 Parks and Recreation, ISD 728 Improve Existing Parks and Facilities
Table 6.1 Priorities - Momentum Actions and Projects
Page 139 of 240
Chapter 6: Implementation 72 ImplementatIonParkPriority Actions2015 Cost Estimate Responsibility Initiatives
Orono
Skate Park $400,000 Parks and Recreation with Skate Group Improve Existing Parks and Facilities
Adult Fitness Features $25,000 Parks and Recreation Improve Existing Parks and Facilities
Splash Pad $650,000 Parks and Recreation Improve Existing Parks and Facilities
Restrooms $250,000 Parks and Recreation, Public Works Improve Existing Parks and Facilities
Parking lot paving (to follow concept plan)$600,000 Parks and Recreation, Public Works Improve Existing Parks and Facilities
New and extended trail (to follow concept plan)$425,000 Parks and Recreation Improve Existing Parks and Facilities, Strengthen Trail
Connections, Connect to the Rivers
Youth Athletic Complex
Restrooms $200,000 Parks and Recreation, Public Works Improve Existing Parks and Facilities
Parking Lot Paving $600,000 Parks and Recreation, Public Works Improve Existing Parks and Facilities
Finish Building $75,000 Parks and Recreation with Athletic Groups Improve Existing Parks and Facilities
Maintenance Shed $75,000 Parks and Recreation with Athletic Groups Improve Existing Parks and Facilities
Field Lights – (1-6)$800,000 Parks and Recreation with Athletic Groups Improve Existing Parks and Facilities
Playground $175,000 Parks and Recreation with Athletic Groups Improve Existing Parks and Facilities
Upgrade Irrigation and Well$20,000 Parks and Recreation with Athletic Groups Improve Existing Parks and Facilities
Additional Fencing$5,000 Parks and Recreation with Athletic Groups Improve Existing Parks and Facilities
Woodland TrailsMaintenance Shed $100,000 Parks and Recreation with Woodland Trails Volunteers
Improve Existing Parks and Facilities, Strengthen
Trail Connections, Preserve Natural Resources and
Greenways
Neighborhood Parks (various)On-going, based on amenity life-cycle and
replacement needs
Amenity life-cycle
replacement costs - TBD
based on individual park
needs over time
Parks and Recreation Improve Existing Parks and Facilities
Bailey Point Nature Preserve
Nature Preserve Improvements (trailhead, parking
lot, natural resource restoration, picnicking,
signage, boardwalk, bridge, trails, site amenities).
$640,000 Parks and Recreation
Improve Existing Parks and Facilities, Strengthen Trail
Connections, Connect to the Rivers, Preserve Natural
Resources and Greenways
Trails
Trail gaps/neighborhood connections to Great
Northern Trail$3,250,000 Public Works, Planning, Parks and Recreation Strengthen Trail Connections
Complete trail connection between Mississippi
River/Main Street and the Great Northern Trail$1,400,000 Public Works, Planning, Parks and Recreation Strengthen Trail Connections, Connect to the Rivers
Sign trail connections as part of the Signage and
Wayfinding Plan
Based on signage and
wayfinding master plan
(currently in process)
Public Works, Parks and Recreation Strengthen Trail Connections
All ParksPark signage as part of the Signage and Wayfinding
Plan
Based on signage and
wayfinding master plan
(currently in process)
Parks and Recreation Improve Existing Parks and Facilities
Buildings
Comprehensive recreation facilities study to
evaluate the Activity Center (55+), Arena, Lions
Park Center, and the Trott Brook Barn and
determine if they should be renovated, replaced on
their current site, or consolidated into a centrally
located facility
Administration, Parks and Recreation, Planning,
Public Works, ISD 728 Improve Existing Parks and Facilities
Oak KnollParking lot upgrades, toilets, lights, bleachers,
better back stops$575,000 Parks and Recreation, ISD 728 Improve Existing Parks and Facilities
Page 140 of 240
73 City of Elk River - Parks and Recreation Master Plan Chapter 6: Implementation
Park Priority Actions 2015 Cost Estimate Responsibility Initiatives
As Determined by Facilities Study
Turf Multi-Use Field (in conjunction with School
District)
Costs to be determined in
Facilities Study ISD 728, Administration, Parks and Recreation Improve Existing Parks and Facilities
Fieldhouse (in conjunction with School District)Costs to be determined in
Facilities Study ISD 728, Administration, Parks and Recreation Improve Existing Parks and Facilities
Arena Costs to be determined in
Facilities Study
Administration, Parks and Recreation, ISD 728,
Public Works Improve Existing Parks and Facilities
Baseball Town Field (Hale’s Field)Costs to be determined in
Facilities Study ISD 728, Administration, Parks and Recreation Improve Existing Parks and Facilities
Community Center/Lions Center Improvements Costs to be determined in
Facilities Study
Administration, Parks and Recreation, Planning,
Public Works Improve Existing Parks and Facilities
Various Locations in the Southern
Part of the City
Add bluff lands to the park system along the
Mississippi River as opportunities allow Based on opportunities Administration, Public Works, Planning, Parks and
Recreation
Strengthen Trail Connections, Connect to the Rivers,
Preserve Natural Resources and Greenways
Woodland Trails (items from
signature park concept plan not
listed under momentum projects)
Woodlands Trails Park - Nature Center/ Chalet $2,500,000 Parks and Recreation with Woodland Trails Volunteers
Improve Existing Parks and Facilities, Strengthen
Trail Connections, Preserve Natural Resources and
Greenways
Trailhead improvements, signage, natural resource
restoration, site amenities (benches, picnic tables,
trash cans, bike racks)
$900,000 Parks and Recreation with Woodland Trails Volunteers
Improve Existing Parks and Facilities, Strengthen
Trail Connections, Preserve Natural Resources and
Greenways
Orono/Dave Anderson Athletic
Complex (items from signature
park concept plan not listed under
momentum projects)
Miracle Field $250,000 Parks and Recreation with Athletic Groups Improve Existing Parks and Facilities
Off-leash dog area expansion, natural play area,
boat house, pickleball court, basket ball court, sand
volleyball, beach expansion, landscaping and site
amenities
$450,000 Parks and Recreation with Athletic Groups Improve Existing Parks and Facilities
Youth Athletic Complex
Expansion Expansion per signature park concept plan $3,000,000 Parks and Recreation with Athletic Groups Improve Existing Parks and Facilities
Lion John Weicht Park (does not
include building upgrades, to be
determined as part of the Facilities
Study)
Improvements per signature park concept plan $1,250,000 Parks and Recreation Improve Existing Parks and Facilities
New neighborhood park
development (along with new
development, does not include
land acquisition)
Urban Service Area (plan assumes 2)$800,000 Parks and Recreation, along with new development
(FAST area)Improve Existing Parks and Facilities
Rural Service Area (assumes 3)$600,000 Parks and Recreation, add recreation amenities to
existing park land along with new development Improve Existing Parks and Facilities
Trails (does not include land
acquisition)
North/South Trail spine east of Highway 169 $1,000,000 Parks and Recreation, Planning, Public Works Strengthen Trail Connections
Ped-bike crossing improvements - Highway 169
(assumes improvements at 5 locations)$5,000,000 Parks and Recreation, Planning, Public Works,
MnDOT Strengthen Trail Connections
Riverfront Trail $4,000,000 Parks and Recreation, Planning, Public Works Strengthen Trail Connections, Connect to the Rivers
Table 6.2 Priorities- Vision Actions and Projects
Page 141 of 240
Chapter 6: Implementation 74 ImplementatIonParkPriority Actions2015 Cost Estimate Responsibility Initiatives
As Determined by Facilities Study
Turf Multi-Use Field (in conjunction with School
District)
Costs to be determined in
Facilities Study ISD 728, Administration, Parks and Recreation Improve Existing Parks and Facilities
Fieldhouse (in conjunction with School District)Costs to be determined in
Facilities Study ISD 728, Administration, Parks and Recreation Improve Existing Parks and Facilities
ArenaCosts to be determined in
Facilities Study
Administration, Parks and Recreation, ISD 728,
Public Works Improve Existing Parks and Facilities
Baseball Town Field (Hale’s Field)Costs to be determined in
Facilities Study ISD 728, Administration, Parks and Recreation Improve Existing Parks and Facilities
Community Center/Lions Center ImprovementsCosts to be determined in
Facilities Study
Administration, Parks and Recreation, Planning,
Public Works Improve Existing Parks and Facilities
Various Locations in the Southern
Part of the City
Add bluff lands to the park system along the
Mississippi River as opportunities allowBased on opportunities Administration, Public Works, Planning, Parks and
Recreation
Strengthen Trail Connections, Connect to the Rivers,
Preserve Natural Resources and Greenways
Woodland Trails (items from
signature park concept plan not
listed under momentum projects)
Woodlands Trails Park - Nature Center/ Chalet$2,500,000 Parks and Recreation with Woodland Trails Volunteers
Improve Existing Parks and Facilities, Strengthen
Trail Connections, Preserve Natural Resources and
Greenways
Trailhead improvements, signage, natural resource
restoration, site amenities (benches, picnic tables,
trash cans, bike racks)
$900,000 Parks and Recreation with Woodland Trails Volunteers
Improve Existing Parks and Facilities, Strengthen
Trail Connections, Preserve Natural Resources and
Greenways
Orono/Dave Anderson Athletic
Complex (items from signature
park concept plan not listed under
momentum projects)
Miracle Field$250,000 Parks and Recreation with Athletic Groups Improve Existing Parks and Facilities
Off-leash dog area expansion, natural play area,
boat house, pickleball court, basket ball court, sand
volleyball, beach expansion, landscaping and site
amenities
$450,000 Parks and Recreation with Athletic Groups Improve Existing Parks and Facilities
Youth Athletic Complex
ExpansionExpansion per signature park concept plan $3,000,000 Parks and Recreation with Athletic Groups Improve Existing Parks and Facilities
Lion John Weicht Park (does not
include building upgrades, to be
determined as part of the Facilities
Study)
Improvements per signature park concept plan$1,250,000 Parks and Recreation Improve Existing Parks and Facilities
New neighborhood park
development (along with new
development, does not include
land acquisition)
Urban Service Area (plan assumes 2)$800,000 Parks and Recreation, along with new development
(FAST area)Improve Existing Parks and Facilities
Rural Service Area (assumes 3)$600,000 Parks and Recreation, add recreation amenities to
existing park land along with new development Improve Existing Parks and Facilities
Trails (does not include land
acquisition)
North/South Trail spine east of Highway 169$1,000,000 Parks and Recreation, Planning, Public Works Strengthen Trail Connections
Ped-bike crossing improvements - Highway 169
(assumes improvements at 5 locations)$5,000,000 Parks and Recreation, Planning, Public Works,
MnDOT Strengthen Trail Connections
Riverfront Trail$4,000,000 Parks and Recreation, Planning, Public Works Strengthen Trail Connections, Connect to the Rivers
Page 142 of 240
75 City of Elk River - Parks and Recreation Master Plan Chapter 6: Implementation
Tool Kit
The toolkit contains standards and guidelines to guide evaluation of new projects and initiatives and help with decision
making system-wide and on a case by case basis. The toolkit includes:
• Parks and Recreation Delivery Guidelines
• Park Classifications and Standards
• Level of Service Analysis
• Funding Sources
• Measuring Progress
Delivery
Level
Recreation
Focus
Facility
Examples Places Trails Service
Area
Regional
Destination
Single Purpose,
Group, & Team
Recreation
Mountain biking,
cross country
skiing, biathlon,
tournament level
athletic complexes
Regional parks,
single parks
with unique
facilities,
athletic
complexes
Great Northern
Trail, Mississippi
River Trail, Trails
within Regional
Parks
City wide and
Regional
Community
Family, Youth,
Group, & Team
Recreation
Destination
playgrounds,
softball/baseball
pinwheels, large
group picnic
shelters, trails,
multi-use fields,
swimming,
recreation buildings
Signature Parks,
Community
Parks, Athletic
Complexes,
Trails connecting
destinations
(schools,
downtown,
rivers, parks),
Trails within
community Parks
City wide
Neighborhood
Family, Youth,
Senior, &
Individual
Recreation
Children's play
equipment,
informal turf play
space, informal
picnicking
Neighborhood
Parks
Local,
neighborhood
trails and
sidewalks
Walkable
distance, not
more than 1/2
mile
Parks and Recreation Delivery Guidelines
The following guidelines provide direction regarding the public and geographic access to recreation activities within the
City of Elk River. The delivery levels range from regional parks to neighborhood scale parks and define the expectations
for the quantity and general location of a particular facility. For example, cross country skiing at Woodland Trails and
tournaments at the Youth Athletic Complex have a regional draw, while children’s play equipment and open grass play
space should be accessible at a neighborhood level.
The first consideration when thinking about delivery of parks and recreation activities should always be the need,
appropriateness, and current availability of such activities. The second consideration should be the infrastructure
needed (field, court, etc.) for the activity to occur. In some cases the physical facilities and programs needed for the
activity may be best delivered, modified or created by the city, but in other cases, may be best delivered by service
providers alone or in partnership with the city. Examples include the Y and Community Education.
Table 6.3 Parks and Recreation Delivery Guidelines
Page 143 of 240
Chapter 6: Implementation 76 ImplementatIon!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!WOODLAND TRAILS PARK
HILLSIDE
CITY PARK
CAMP
COZY
PARK
MEADOWVALE
HEIGHTS PARK
YOUTH
ATHLETIC
COMPLEX
BIG TOOTH
RIDGE PARK
RICE LAKE
PARK
BURR
OAK
PARK
ORONO
PARK
BIRCH MEADOW
PARK
SEDGE
MEADOW
PARK
OAK KNOLL
PARK
ALBA
RIDGE
PARK
LION JOHN
WEICHT PARK
& LIONS PARK
CENTER
HARRIS
ISLAND
PARK
WINDSOR
PARK
BABCOCK
PARK
ROYAL VALLEY
PARK
TROTT BROOK
FARMS PARK
HIGHLANDS PARK
DAVE ANDERSON
ATHLETIC COMPLEX
KLEIVER
MARSH
PARK
RIDGEWOOD
PARK
KLEIVER LAKE
FIELDS PARK
OAK SAVANNA
PARK
OXBOW
PARK
MISS. OAKS
PARK
DEERFIELD
HILL PARK
WEST
OAKS
PARK
RIVERPLACE
PARK
COUNTRY
CROSSING
PARK
FRESNO
PARK
KLEIVER POINT
PARK
BARRINGTON
PARK
MEADOW
PARK
RIVERS
EDGE
COMMONS
NORTH TERRACE
PARK
BALDWIN
PARK
BAILEY POINT
NATURE PRESERVE
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VANCELANDER214TH
QUINN1 7 3 R D
190THVICTORIA 2 1 1 T H
5TH
183RD8TH
HOLT171STFRESNOE
L
GI
NHOOVER195TH
1 8 2 N DWATSONZANE193RDDODGEOGDEN196TH
1 94 THQ UEEN225TH
ZANE193RD
TYLERNAPLESLOWELL209TH
CONCORD ULYSSES192 1/2
6THQUEEN197TH
JOPLIN214TH
RAWLINS2 1 1 T H
191ST
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OLSON
191 1/2
CLEVELAND207TH
MORTONAUBURN208TH
183RDIRONTON6TH
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PTON200TH
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1
90
THQUEEN213TH
207TH
195TH
209TH
198TH
214TH
193RD
182ND ZUMBRORAWLINS201ST
1 9 1 S TYALE193RD
193RD 223RD194T H
Y
O
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196TH
197TH
ZANE225TH
XENIAPASCAL199TH
195TH
197TH
178THZANE 1 7 9 T H
208TH
BOSTON202ND195 TH196TH
BALDWIN223RD
200TH
NAPLESBALDWIN192ND
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183RD
ZANERAMPRAMPRAMPRAMPRAMPR
A
MPCONCORD 187TH
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ADAMSOLSON1 8 5 T H
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PRIVATE
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1 7 2 N DEVANSSMITH
MONROETYLER180THJACKSONPRIVATE185TH
PRIVATE0 0.25 0.5 0.75 1Miles¯
Signature Parks (Outlined)
Athletic Complex
Community Park
Nature Preserve/Conservation Area
Greenway
Neighborhood Park
Special Use
Undeveloped
Schools
Figure 6.1 Park Classifications
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77 City of Elk River - Parks and Recreation Master Plan Chapter 6: Implementation
Classification Description Typical Features Service Area Access
Neighborhood Park
(urban service area)
Primary recreation facility to meet the day-to-day needs of neighborhoods. Provides
active recreation and informal gathering spaces for families and groups of neighbors.
Fields are sized for practice/youth games.
Playground, open field, picnic
facilities, skating rink, courts
1/2 mile radius, free of
major barriers such as
waterways or highways
Easily accessible to neighborhood residents by
bike or on foot
Neighborhood Park
(outside of urban
service area)
Close to home to meet day-to-day needs of residents. Minimal facilities devoted to
informal play. Adjacent to natural areas, with trails as appropriate.
open field, small playground or play
structure
1- 1/2 mile radius, focus
on trail connections
to neighborhoods and
Great Northern Trail
Easily accessible to residents in the area by bike
or automobile
Community Park Serves broader purpose than neighborhood parks. Focus is on meeting service sector-
based recreational needs, as well as preserving unique landscapes and open spaces.
Large playground, open fields, picnic
facilities, trails, parking Community-wide Connected to pedestrian/bike networks.
Automobile parking provided
Athletic Complex Focused on organized athletic recreation with regulation sized playfields. Meets the athletic
needs of varying ages.
Athletic fields, courts, or rinks,
playground, shelter, water,
restrooms, parking
Community & Regional
Draw
Connected to pedestrian/bike networks.
Automobile parking provided
Signature Park Community parks and athletic complexes with high quality facilities that residents are
willing to drive to and attract regional visitors.
Large, custom playground, high
quality athletic fields, groomed cross
country ski trails, restrooms
Community & Regional
Draw
Connected to road, pedestrian, and bike
networks. Automobile parking provided
Nature Preserve /
Conservation Area
Areas focused on the preservation of natural environments, passive recreation, and
ecological education. For some areas, use is dictated by deed restrictions.Trails, habitat, interpretation Community-wide Centered around natural resources and
amenities
Greenways
These areas serve as linear corridors of natural environment. The Focus is on protecting
ecological resources and providing wildlife and trail corridors. Secondary use is for trails,
assuming that they can be integrated without compromising the integrity of the natural
systems.
Trails, habitat, interpretation Community-wide Centered around natural resources and
amenities
Special Use Facility A broad range of land and buildings with a primary use such as a nature center, senior
center, historic sites, activity center, etc.
Specific to primary use Community & Regional
Draw
Connected to pedestrian/bike networks.
Automobile parking provided
Undeveloped Park Park land held for future recreation development or future nature preserve.Undeveloped Neighborhood/
Community-wide
Connected to pedestrian/bike networks
along with development. Consider need
for automobile parking at time of recreation
development.
Regional Park
Parks and open spaces with a natural resource and larger acreage focus. Classification as
a regional park is coordinated through the greater Minnesota Regional Parks and Trails
Commission
Trails, habitat, interpretation Community & Regional
Draw Centered around natural resources and
amenities. Connected to pedestrian/bike
networks. Automobile parking provided
Table 6.4 Park Classifications
Elk River’s park system is made up of a variety of parks and open spaces, each with different purposes, characteristics,
uses, and ownership. Classifications define and clarify the intended use of each park type and indoor recreation facility
and also clarify the area served, access, and typical features of each park type and indoor recreation facility. This table is
Page 145 of 240
Chapter 6: Implementation 78 ImplementatIonClassificationDescription Typical Features Service Area Access
Neighborhood Park
(urban service area)
Primary recreation facility to meet the day-to-day needs of neighborhoods. Provides
active recreation and informal gathering spaces for families and groups of neighbors.
Fields are sized for practice/youth games.
Playground, open field, picnic
facilities, skating rink, courts
1/2 mile radius, free of
major barriers such as
waterways or highways
Easily accessible to neighborhood residents by
bike or on foot
Neighborhood Park
(outside of urban
service area)
Close to home to meet day-to-day needs of residents. Minimal facilities devoted to
informal play. Adjacent to natural areas, with trails as appropriate.
open field, small playground or play
structure
1- 1/2 mile radius, focus
on trail connections
to neighborhoods and
Great Northern Trail
Easily accessible to residents in the area by bike
or automobile
Community ParkServes broader purpose than neighborhood parks. Focus is on meeting service sector-
based recreational needs, as well as preserving unique landscapes and open spaces.
Large playground, open fields, picnic
facilities, trails, parking Community-wide Connected to pedestrian/bike networks.
Automobile parking provided
Athletic ComplexFocused on organized athletic recreation with regulation sized playfields. Meets the athletic
needs of varying ages.
Athletic fields, courts, or rinks,
playground, shelter, water,
restrooms, parking
Community & Regional
Draw
Connected to pedestrian/bike networks.
Automobile parking provided
Signature ParkCommunity parks and athletic complexes with high quality facilities that residents are
willing to drive to and attract regional visitors.
Large, custom playground, high
quality athletic fields, groomed cross
country ski trails, restrooms
Community & Regional
Draw
Connected to road, pedestrian, and bike
networks. Automobile parking provided
Nature Preserve /
Conservation Area
Areas focused on the preservation of natural environments, passive recreation, and
ecological education. For some areas, use is dictated by deed restrictions.Trails, habitat, interpretation Community-wide Centered around natural resources and
amenities
Greenways
These areas serve as linear corridors of natural environment. The Focus is on protecting
ecological resources and providing wildlife and trail corridors. Secondary use is for trails,
assuming that they can be integrated without compromising the integrity of the natural
systems.
Trails, habitat, interpretation Community-wide Centered around natural resources and
amenities
Special Use FacilityA broad range of land and buildings with a primary use such as a nature center, senior
center, historic sites, activity center, etc.
Specific to primary use Community & Regional
Draw
Connected to pedestrian/bike networks.
Automobile parking provided
Undeveloped ParkPark land held for future recreation development or future nature preserve.Undeveloped Neighborhood/
Community-wide
Connected to pedestrian/bike networks
along with development. Consider need
for automobile parking at time of recreation
development.
Regional Park
Parks and open spaces with a natural resource and larger acreage focus. Classification as
a regional park is coordinated through the greater Minnesota Regional Parks and Trails
Commission
Trails, habitat, interpretation Community & Regional
Draw Centered around natural resources and
amenities. Connected to pedestrian/bike
networks. Automobile parking provided
particularly useful when planning for new parks within the community or when contemplating park needs for major
redevelopment projects.
Classifications will help guide facility and use plans and are based on national standards from the National Recreation
and Parks Association, the American Planning Association, and local conditions.
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79 City of Elk River - Parks and Recreation Master Plan Chapter 6: Implementation
Facility Service
Area
No. of
Existing City
Facilities
No. of
Existing
School
Facilities
Total
Number
of Existing
Facilities
Facilities Per
Pop. Minimum
Standard
2010 Facilities
Minimum
Standard (pop.
22,974)
Current
Deficit/
Surplus
2035 Facilities
Minimum
Standard (pop.
34,890)
2035
Deficit/
Surplus
Playground 1/2 Mile 15 7 22 1 per 1,000-2,000 12-23 ok to low 18-36 low
Baseball 90'10-15 Minute
travel time 3 7 10 1 per 5,000 to 10,000
(1/3-1/2 should be lit)3-5 ok to low 3-7 ok to low
Softball/Little League 60'1-2 Miles 11 14 25 1 per 2,000 to 4,000 6-12 ok to high 9-18 ok
Multi-Purpose Field
(Football, Soccer, LAX, Rugby)
1/2 Mile -
1 Mile
4 15 19 1 per 4,000 to 8,000 3-6 ok 5-9 low (partner)
Outdoor Basketball Court
1/2 Mile -
1 Mile
13 16 29 1 per 3,000 8 ok to high 12 ok
Indoor Gym Court
(Basketball, Volleyball)
10-15 Minute
travel time 0 20 20 1 per 10,000-20,000
(City only)1-2 low (partner)2-4 low (partner)
Outdoor Track City-wide 0 1 1 1 per 20,000 1 low (partner)2 low (partner)
Outdoor Rink 10-15 Minute
travel time 4 2 6 1 per 5,000 to 10,000 3-5 ok 4-7 ok to low
Indoor Rink City-wide 2 0 2 Dep. on demand
Tennis Court 1 Mile 3 16 19 1 per 2,000-4,000 6-12 low (partner)9-18 low (partner)
Outdoor Volleyball 1-2 Miles 3 0 3 1 per 7,500-10,000 2-3 ok 4-5 ok
Pool City-wide 1- non city Y 0 0*1 per 20,000-40,000 1 low (partner)1 low (partner)
Disc Golf City-wide 1 0 1 NA
Table 6.5 Level of Service Analysis
Level of service standards identify the minimum level of service required for recreation facilities such as ballfields,
courts, etc. The needs are based on the existing population levels, (22,974 in 2010) and projected population (34,890 in
2035). The standards are based on recommendations by the National Recreation and Park Association, an organization
of parks and recreation experts and professionals who have examined recreation and athletic facilities throughout the
nation, adjusted their findings to account for regional differences, and then provided guidelines based on population.
It is important to remember these standards are minimums and local conditions may necessitate provision of additional
facilities. A community may also choose to provide additional fields or facilities based on the desires of that community.
A surplus or deficit does not automatically mean the need to remove or add facilities.
Page 147 of 240
Chapter 6: Implementation 80 ImplementatIonFacilityService
Area
No. of
Existing City
Facilities
No. of
Existing
School
Facilities
Total
Number
of Existing
Facilities
Facilities Per
Pop. Minimum
Standard
2010 Facilities
Minimum
Standard (pop.
22,974)
Current
Deficit/
Surplus
2035 Facilities
Minimum
Standard (pop.
34,890)
2035
Deficit/
Surplus
Playground1/2 Mile15722 1 per 1,000-2,000 12-23 ok to low 18-36 low
Baseball 90'10-15 Minute
travel time3710 1 per 5,000 to 10,000
(1/3-1/2 should be lit)3-5 ok to low 3-7 ok to low
Softball/Little League 60'1-2 Miles111425 1 per 2,000 to 4,000 6-12 ok to high 9-18 ok
Multi-Purpose Field
(Football, Soccer, LAX, Rugby)
1/2 Mile -
1 Mile
41519 1 per 4,000 to 8,000 3-6 ok 5-9 low (partner)
Outdoor Basketball Court
1/2 Mile -
1 Mile
131629 1 per 3,000 8 ok to high 12 ok
Indoor Gym Court
(Basketball, Volleyball)
10-15 Minute
travel time02020 1 per 10,000-20,000
(City only)1-2 low (partner)2-4 low (partner)
Outdoor TrackCity-wide011 1 per 20,000 1 low (partner)2 low (partner)
Outdoor Rink10-15 Minute
travel time426 1 per 5,000 to 10,000 3-5 ok 4-7 ok to low
Indoor RinkCity-wide202 Dep. on demand
Tennis Court1 Mile31619 1 per 2,000-4,000 6-12 low (partner)9-18 low (partner)
Outdoor Volleyball1-2 Miles303 1 per 7,500-10,000 2-3 ok 4-5 ok
PoolCity-wide1- non city Y00*1 per 20,000-40,000 1 low (partner)1 low (partner)
Disc GolfCity-wide101 NA
Comparison to these standards can only tell part of the story of the facilities system in Elk River. Other attributes such
as quality, size, accessibility, location, age, supporting amenities, and durability can be just as important. The most
important considerations when looking at facilities needs to be the local demand, appropriateness, and availability
of similar facilities. The standards do provide a good starting point for comparisons but cannot entirely represent the
needs of Elk River.
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81 City of Elk River - Parks and Recreation Master Plan Chapter 6: Implementation
Funding Sources
The community invests substantial financial resources to acquire parkland,
add park amenities and build facilities. These investments improve the quality
of life for residents of all ages and abilities and sets Elk River apart from other
communities as a destination community.
Following the substantial initial investment, ongoing revenue streams are required
to maintain parks, trails, amenities, and facilities, as well as to provide for future
replacement. Two methods are generally utilized to maintain and replace assets,
1) Pay as you go – a savings plan to set aside funds each year to pay for future
costs; or 2) One-time bulk infusion, utilizing a large single year levy increase or
using the proceeds from a bond sale.
Funding streams are classified as Sustainable – a consistent, long-term active
source for funds; or Intermittent – funding sources that are difficult to schedule,
may require matching funds and are typically one-time revenues.
It is anticipated that the city will use multiple methods to fund the system. The
following sections provide additional information about the types of funding
sources identified in Table 6.6. The funding sources are categorized by sustainable
and intermittent.
Sustainable
Provides long-term funding over multiple years.
General Fund Tax Levy
The General Fund is typically used to maintain the parks and recreation system.
The General Fund is the primary funding source for ongoing maintenance,
natural resource management, operations, and minor amenity additions. Most
grants also have a matching requirement that is often pledged with general funds.
Dedicated Tax Levy
A dedicated tax levy identifies funds sourced to pay solely for park improvements.
By identifying a separate general tax levy line item in addition to normal tax levy
line items for core city operations, taxpayer transparency is increased for funds
reserved for planned, long-term improvements. This functions as a pay-as-you
go approach versus a large one-time infusion of capital. The amount of tax levy
dedicated may be included in levy limits if enacted again, whereas debt service tax
levy is often outside levy limits.
Bonding
A number of bonding options exist including General Obligation Bonds, Annual
Appropriation Bonds, Tax Abatement Bonds, and Revenue Bonds. Bonding
provides a large one-time infusion of capital for acquisition, replacement, repair,
expansion, or new construction. Bonding allows for current and future residents
to pay for park improvements over time which typically correspond to useful life
of the asset improvements. General Obligation Bonds provide the lowest interest
rate while revenue bonds may be 50-100 basis points higher than a General
Obligation pledge. Revenue Bonds need to have sufficient revenue identified for
repayment and generally requires a coverage ratio of 105 percent.
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Chapter 6: Implementation 82 ImplementatIonBonds by Referendum
When residents approve bonding authority through a referendum, the city
benefits by the lowest available interest rate, an option of a longer repayment
term of up to 30 years, as well as the increased transparency. The bonds are
counted against a city’s net debt limit and the levy to support them is outside of
typical legislated levy limits. Property taxes are an authorized means of support
for General Obligation Bonds, but do not have to be used if alternative revenue
sources are available. For example, rental revenues or local sales tax can be used
to pay general obligation bonds and offset some or all of the property taxes that
would otherwise be required.
Local Sales Tax Option
Minnesota Statutes 297A.99 provides the authority to levy a local sales tax with
special legislation of a dedicated tax. The statute requires that a resolution also be
passed by the jurisdiction including, at minimum, information on the proposed
tax rate, how the revenues will be used, the total revenue that will be raised before
the tax expires and the estimated length of time the tax will be in effect. Once
legal authority has been granted, an election must be held prior to a jurisdiction
actually levying the sales tax. The election will permit the use of the sales tax for
specific capital improvements.
Liquor Store Revenue
The City of Elk River may utilize up to 45% of operating income less budgeted
transfers from its municipal liquor stores to fund a Park Improvement Fund.
The Park Improvement Fund will be used for further build-out of our current
parks, replacement and maintenance of capital assets, and the beautification of
city parks.
Franchise Fees
Franchise fees are a charge listed on the monthly bill that customers receive from
a utility, such as natural gas, electricity or cable. This can be a flat amount each
month or a percentage of the monthly bill. A franchise fee can be implemented
with an ordinance which must be approved by the City Council. The City of Elk
River currently uses franchise fees for the pavement management program.
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83 City of Elk River - Parks and Recreation Master Plan Chapter 6: Implementation
Intermittent
Irregular or periodic in occurrence.
State Aid Funds
State aid funds are available for pedestrian and bicycle improvements on state aid
streets. This funding source is particularly useful at the time of street construction
or re-construction. Elk River should have a process for evaluating needed trail and
sidewalk improvements as part of capital improvement projects.
Park and Trail Dedication
Minnesota Statutes allow local governments to require dedication of land or
cash in-lieu of land for parks and trails from new subdivisions. The dedication
must be reasonable and rationally related to the recreation demand created by the
development. It may only be used for new equipment additions, not replacement.
School Districts
The city partners with the local School District, particularly in the use of athletic
fields. The continued collaboration between the city and the School District is
important in ensuring adequate access to athletic facilities and minimizing overlap
in programs. Communication should occur on at least an annual basis about
planned projects and additional opportunities to jointly develop open space and
public facilities as appropriate.
Partnerships
Elk River has partnerships with both public and private organizations. These
relationships have historically led to improvements to city parks and other public
facilities. Partnerships will be important for both facilities and programming.
Organizations with partner funding can also provide assistance with design,
outreach and maintenance. Partnerships and relationships with private entities
can also result in easements and use agreements for trails across private land.
Donations
Private donations are another potential funding source. These may be financial
donations from individuals or area corporations.
Volunteers
Volunteer efforts of labor from recreation clubs or use agreements related to
trail and park maintenance are very successful in Elk River today to help raise
awareness.
Page 151 of 240
Chapter 6: Implementation 84 ImplementatIonGrants
Grants are a way to make Elk River’s dollars go further. The city has been successful
in securing grant funding. Below is a sample of some grant opportunities that
may be available along with websites to visit for more information.
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR)
The DNR is one of the most comprehensive resources when it comes to state
funding for park and trail programs. They offer a variety of grant programs and
technical assistance. Current programs provide assistance for cross country skiing
trails, mountain biking trails, horseback riding trails, and recreational trails. Some
programs also offer assistance for the development of parks or for trail amenities
such as restrooms, lighting, benches, etc. Each of the Minnesota DNR grant
programs is unique. The DNR should be consulted before pursuing a grant to
clarify funding availability and qualifications.
Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT)
Many trail or bikeway improvement projects funded through MnDOT also
utilize a portion of federal dollars. Federal highway funding reauthorization
may include funding for trail or sidewalk improvement projects under programs
such as Safe Routes to School or the Regional Solicitation managed by the
Metropolitan Council Transportation Advisory Board.
Clean Water, Land, & Legacy Amendment
In 2008, Minnesota voters approved the Clean Water, Land and Legacy
Amendment to the Minnesota State Constitution which increased the general
sales and use tax rate by three-eighths of one percent (0.375%) and dedicated the
proceeds for the Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund, the Outdoor Heritage Fund,
Clean Water Fund, and Parks and Trails Fund. Elk River Conservation Area was
obtained through the Outdoor Heritage Fund.
Foundations & Non-Profits
Some foundations and non-profits fulfill their missions by supporting local
projects such as park, trail, and bikeway improvements. The Minnesota Council
of Foundations is a great starting point for identifying foundations.
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85 City of Elk River - Parks and Recreation Master Plan Chapter 6: Implementation
Table 6.6 Funding Sources
The table above identifies the potential funding sources for each of the priorities. Sources are identified as possible,
likely, best depending on how well the action and funding source are matched.
Best Funding
Source
Likely Funding
Source
Possible Funding
Source
1 2 3
Key
Project Type
General FundsUtility or other FeePark Bond ReferendumState Aid FundsPark/ Trail DedicationConstruction with developmentGrantsPartnershipsDonationsNew parks 2 3 1 3 3
Improve parks and
facilities 1 3 3 1 3 3 3
Maintain our park assets
at a high level 1 3 3 3 3
Strengthen trail
connections 2 2 3 2 3 1 2 2
Connect to the rivers 1 3 1 2 2 3
Provide engaging
recreational
programming
1 2 2 3 3
Preserve natural
resources and greenways 2 3 3 2 1 1 3 3
Create Arts Program 2 2 3 1 2 3
Arts and Cultural
Design Elements 1 2 3 1 2 2 3 3
Page 153 of 240
Chapter 6: Implementation 86 ImplementatIonMeasuring Progress
Routine evaluation of the parks and recreation system is valuable, particularly
when justifying requests for funds, facilities, staff time and volunteers.
It is also important to proactively communicate benefits provided by the park
and recreation system to ensure elected officials, other decision makers and the
public have a thorough understanding of the benefits the system provides and the
number of people positively impacted by the parks and recreation system.
Regular evaluations also have the potential for pinpointing which improvements
would better serve system users and identifying benchmarks for excellence.
Comprehensive evaluations of parks and recreation systems should include both
qualitative and quantitative components. Some qualitative tools, such as surveys,
are relatively easy to conduct and are important in gauging satisfactions, trends,
and need. Surveys do not tell the entire picture though. The use of quantitative
methods, such as counts, are important in capturing the who, what, where, and
when of parks and recreation use. Counts are the most beneficial in demonstrating
the magnitude of usage. Finally, the evaluation system should also include an
analysis of the community’s progress on its goals and implementation of its plans.
Following are types of quantitative and qualitative data that should be collected
as part of a comprehensive evaluation or progress.
> Quantitative Data
• Number of recreation activities and participants tracked through
registrations.
• Number of events, facility users and participants tracked through reservations,
permitting, and through usage requests by associations.
• Number of volunteer participants.
• Number of people using parks, trails, and other facilities through the
development of a user count program. This program might be accomplished
by counting cars in the parking lot, creating a neighborhood park count
volunteer program, or installing new technology to count trail users.
• Number of signature and other park master plans completed.
• Miles of sidewalks/trails completed.
• Park and trail safety – number of accidents, incidents, and crime.
• Evaluation of species diversity, parcel size, and connectivity in our natural
resource areas to guide our natural resource management efforts.
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87 City of Elk River - Parks and Recreation Master Plan Chapter 6: Implementation
> Qualitative Data
• Continue city-wide survey on a regular basis and evaluate trends over time.
• Conduct satisfaction surveys of recreation activity participants.
• Create evaluation for associations and other groups who regularly use
facilities.
• Interview park users to find out how they got there, why they came, how
long they stayed, and the importance of the park’s different attributes and
facilities. If done regularly this can be informative in terms of trends.
• Conduct focus groups to gather information about park use habits and
desires for future park system directions.
• System Analysis.
• Identify progress on marketing plan goals.
• Identify improvements implemented based on individual park master plans.
• Outline steps taken toward implementing system plan recommendations
and priorities.
• Evaluate the ability to fund the desired system.
• Summarize the amount of outside funding (partnerships, grants, etc.)
secured.
• Identify challenges and what steps have been taken to address them.
> A Plan that Grows and Changes with the Community
A great parks and recreation system not only measures progress by assessing
community needs and satisfaction but also responds to meet those needs.
Recreation is dynamic and evolves rapidly. New recreation activities and
equipment emerge (disc golf and the mountain bike are examples), and recreation
trends ebb and flow.
Elk River in particular is, and will continue to be, a growing community with
new and additional parks and recreation needs. This evolution means flexible and
adaptive parks, facilities, and programs are a must. It also means regular Parks and
Recreation Master Plan review and refinement based on community feedback.
A periodic review of this plan to make sure that priorities and recommendations
are still relevant and that progress is regularly tracked is an essential action. This
plan itself will need to be updated from time to time as the city continues to
evolve. Through these steps, Elk River will have a park system that meets the
needs of the community today, tomorrow, and for generations to come.
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Chapter 6: Implementation 88 ImplementatIonThis page intentionally left blank
Page 156 of 240
89 City of Elk River - Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix: Elk River Public Arts
Introduction
Public art and architecture says a lot about the city in which it is displayed. Murals may depict an historical
event while avant-garde sculptures might indicate a place’s openness to new ideas. A crowded art fair says
volumes about a community’s support for local artists, and a precision marching band may play in support of
a local school. Elk River as a community embraces art and artists. The city recognizes the value of compelling
public art, the input of creative thinkers, and the contributions they make to Elk River’s identity and sense of
place.
The Elk River Public Art Plan is for city-owned properties and infrastructure, though it may provide support
beyond public areas. It addresses the current arts scene, public art policies, guidance for public art, and
initiatives to further develop public art in the city.
Public Art Vision
Visioning Session
On May 5, 2014, members of the Elk River Arts Community, city staff, and the Parks and Recreation Master
Plan Planning Team met to review opportunities and potential locations and partnerships for public art in the
city. Meeting participants also identified goals, strategies, and themes for the public art plan. Members of the
Elk River Arts Alliance, the Regional Arts Council, the Minnesota State Arts Board, the Central Minnesota
Arts Board, Independent School District 728, the Elk River Economic Development Authority, and various
theaters and other performance groups were all in attendance.
Elk RiverPublic Arts Plan
Photo from Arts Alliance
Page 157 of 240
Appendix: Elk River Public Arts 90
Attendees viewed a presentation and participated in discussions of public art opportunities and best practices
as they applied to Elk River. They then defined the potential scope, goals, opportunities and approach to
public art in the community. The input gathered at this meeting informed the vision for the Elk River Public
Art Plan.
The Vision
Public Art should represent Elk River. Its themes, creators, and viewers should come away with a better
understanding of what the city is – ‘a sense of place.’ It should engage residents, businesses, and policymakers
in the process. It should fit within the city, whether as a standalone piece or incorporated into buildings
and infrastructure, as an integral part of the community. It should be displayed in a city that recognizes and
compensates artists for their work. But above all, the art must stir the feelings of those who encounter it, to
speak the ‘Language of Emotion.’
Public Art Best Practices
When developing a public art program, there are two elements that need to be discussed and defined. One is
the role of public art, the other is the role and management of the program to support public art.
Public Art
Successful public art generally meets the following characteristics:
• Is accessible to the public (location and financially)
• Has context specific to the site or community
• Includes community involvement
• Can express community values, enhance the environment, transform a landscape, heighten awareness, or
question assumptions
Photo from ArtSoup
Page 158 of 240
91 City of Elk River - Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix: Elk River Public Arts
Inventory of Public Art in
Elk River
• Downtown Murals
• Rivers Edge Commons
▶Etched River
▶Fountain
• Sculptures Downtown
▶Ladle
▶Elk
• “Tina” at Hillside City Park
• Handke School and Pit
• Jackson Avenue Water Tower
• Hwy 10 Memorial
• Independence Day Fireworks
• Historic Markers
• White deer at Handke
13
Inventory of Public Art
Programs and Policies
in Elk River
• Art Soup
• Arts Alliance Classes
• Riverfront Concert Series
• Arts In Harmony Art Show
• Christmas Performances
• German Festival
• High School Evening of the Arts
Inventory of Public Art
groups & Organizations in
and associated with Elk
River
• Elk River Arts Alliance
• Regional Arts Council
• Minnesota State Arts Board
• Central Minnesota Arts Board
• ISD 728 Public Schools
• ISD 728 Community Education
• Elk River Economic Development
Authority
Page 159 of 240
Appendix: Elk River Public Arts 92
Choosing Public Art
Selecting art by committee has advantages and drawbacks. Art can be an iterative practice that benefits from
the critiquing process in which outside opinions help the artist refine and improve her or his work. Without
some oversight there is also the potential for art that is unsuitable for a community.
Using a public art selection committee can protect the city as well as the integrity of the public art program
provided the committee consists of well-informed members with a wide range of expertise and experience
in public art. The committee should be made up of representatives from the public art groups, organizations
working in the community, artists living and working in Elk River, Parks and Recreation Commission
members, and other stakeholders.
Public Art Programs
As communities grow their public art programs, it is better to move slowly and learn from experience than to
take on too much to start. The intent of this plan is to provide the city with options for supporting public art
and methods for developing public art at an appropriate speed.
Types of Public Art
Locations for Public Art
SidewalkMonuMentSarchitecturewallSPavingSculPturePerforManceS“PoP-uP” gallerieSwater featureSliving artinfraStructuregatewaySPlazaSStreetSSchoolSfeStivalSStorefrontSinterior BuildingStraditional venueSParkS/trailSPuBlic
PerManent
Private
ePheMeral
Page 160 of 240
93 City of Elk River - Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix: Elk River Public Arts
Various communities have employed different programs to develop public art, including:
• A rotating gallery program in which cities first provide a venue for artists to display their work, and then
annually add one or two of the most popular pieces to the city’s permanent collection
• Arts dedication (similar to park dedication) from any new private development, redevelopment, or
public capital or infrastructure investment
• Arts requirement in which any new private development, redevelopment, or public capital or
infrastructure investment must incorporate some level of public art
• Public art competitions
• Support or subsidies for locations for artists to do their work
• Support for events (concerts, plays, art fairs)
• Artist in Residence programs
• Facilitating partnerships between artists and corporate patrons
• Pursuing grants
• Facilitating simple permitting for temporary or “pop-up” art opportunities
Locations
The locations identified are places where public art displays would likely be most engaged. In these settings,
the art should respond to the context in which it is displayed. Public art, unlike a gallery piece sitting against
a blank wall, must fit its setting. This is not to say that public art is not welcome in other locations in the
city, nor that every artist’s interpretation of what fits a location would be the same, but an artist must be able
to answer the question, “how does your art respond to the context and setting in which it will be displayed?”
Downtown
The historic downtown already shows and hosts numerous pieces of public art, from sculptures and murals,
to performances and fountains. It is a pedestrian-focused area with public and private facilities. It is also the
heart of the community, and an area commonly identified with Elk River.
Public art projects in the downtown area could further enrich the experiences of visitors and locals alike.
Opportunities for public art could include functional pedestrian amenities such as benches, lights, planters,
and gates or railings. Additional public art could fit into buildings or in storefront windows or facades.
Potential points of focus or themes for public art could include the river or the area’s history, or art could be
created in response to the built form of the district. Art in this location will likely be oriented to the human
scale.
Community Gateways
Community gateways create a visitor’s first impression of Elk River as they enter the city. These gateways thus
serve as the city’s welcome, whether it is for a first time visitor or for residents returning home from their daily
commutes.
Public art at community gateways must consider the way in which people will interact with it. Someone
entering Elk River from the north along Highway169 will likely be traveling at highway speed. Thus, the
gateway must be legible from a greater distance and at high speeds. Viewers will not be able to consider the
Page 161 of 240
Appendix: Elk River Public Arts 94
art for a long time, nor will they notice intricate details. Unlike a downtown piece that can be looked at and
explored by a pedestrian, public art at gateways will likely have to make an immediate and strong impression.
Art and materials may need to scale up or down to meet the individual location’s needs. Coordination with
the city’s wayfinding plan will also be important for art in these locations.
City Hall
As the official seat of the city’s government, an element of professionalism must be considered with regards
to public art that is located at City Hall. The amount of space available also narrows the types of artistic
interpretation appropriate for this location.
Art in City Hall will likely be visual in nature and should be refined to reflect upon the city as an institution.
It should be of a size that it can be located in City Hall without impeding movement or day to day operations.
The level of detail should allow the viewer to stop and consider both the message and the craftsmanship of
the piece.
Community Parks
Community parks serve as the gathering place for the city. They are often a destination and attract people
from all over Elk River and surrounding communities, thus public art in community parks reflects upon the
entire community. Community parks have often been developed due to the unique features, uses, history,
and landscape of the place. These stories and characteristics can offer artists inspiration when creating art for
these locations.
Public art in community parks should build on the character of the individual park in which it is located.
As community hubs these parks require art that will engage an audience from across the city. Art should
interpret, be inspired by, or otherwise relate to the context and unique characteristics of the park.
Neighborhood Parks
Neighborhood parks are the public spaces that define the “finer grain” neighborhoods of Elk River. People
claim their neighborhood parks in ways they do not or could not with community or regional parks. These
parks are where people develop their personal stories and experiences.
Public art in neighborhood parks should be an opportunity for the neighborhood to put their unique stamp
on the facility. Opportunities could include school projects, mobile art making events, murals, or impromptu
performances.
Trail Corridors
The Great Northern Trail is the outdoor recreation spine of the community. Visitors and residents alike come
to ride or hike the trail. Other trail corridors connect neighborhoods, natural areas, and parks. Many users are
walking or bicycling, which means they may not stop for long and pass by areas relatively quickly.
Numerous opportunities exist for art to be incorporated into the wayfinding, infrastructure, and facilities
along the trail. Because trails often connect natural areas and community destinations, they could be enhanced
by interpretation or telling the stories of these important community locations. Trails and art can create a
unique linear set of experiences that captivate viewers by giving them themes and stories to consider with each
new encounter.
Page 162 of 240
95 City of Elk River - Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix: Elk River Public Arts
Examples and Precedents
The images on these two pages display a range of public art. Similar projects may be fitting in Elk River. This
set of images should not limit what is considered for public art, but may give an idea of the character and
range of scales and mediums that could be used. Examples include sculptures, arts festivals, infrastructure art,
temporary installations, musical performances, shelters, artistic park features, and storytelling plays
Bearly About - Lake Oswego, OR
Pathways to Peace - Minneapolis, MN
Gateway to the West - Minneapolis, MN Dry Stone Construction Demonstration - Minnesota Landscape Arboretum
ArtShanty Project - White Bear Lake, MN
Fears Erased - Duluth, MNDaybreak Sculpture/Skate Park - Utah
Stone Slabs and Mounds - Franconia, MNNest - Ironwood, MI
Page 163 of 240
Appendix: Elk River Public Arts 96
Millstream Arts Festival - St. Joseph, MN
Growth - Brooklyn Park, MN
Wetland Overlook - Wilsonville, ORPathways to Peace - Minneapolis, MN
Chihuly Glass & Bench - Seattle , WA Granite Falls: Saturday Nights! Community Performance - Granite Falls, MN
Edgerton Bridge - Vadnais Heights, MN
Bench - Spokane, WA
Disc Spiral - Minnesota Landscape Arboretum
Okee Dokee Canoe Trip Concert - Mississippi River
Stickworks - Collegeville, MN
Page 164 of 240
97 City of Elk River - Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix: Elk River Public Arts
Goals and Strategies for Public Art in Elk River
The goals outlined below represent the input from local artists and arts groups in Elk River. They are
intentionally open ended so as to be flexible as the city further develops its public art program. Strategies are
steps the city or others may undertake to achieve the goals outlined.
Goal: Public art should represent the community and help create a “sense of place”
Strategies:
• Utilize local artists whenever appropriate.
• Incorporate local materials when appropriate.
• Look to characteristics of Elk River for inspiration.
• Incorporate art into the infrastructure of Elk River.
• Set aside a percentage of any infrastructure project for the incorporation of public art.
• Explore alternative infrastructure (rain gardens, unique bridges, streetscapes, etc.) that can incorporate
creative elements.
• Facilitate and streamline the process for temporary art installations such as “pop-up” shops, performances,
and events.
Goal: Public art should be leveraged for positive economic benefit and development
Strategies:
• Promote Elk River arts outside of the city.
• Facilitate events to attract people to downtown.
• Coordinate with local businesses.
• Facilitate events and programs for the sale of art.
• Develop and promote partnerships with corporate patrons and artists.
Page 165 of 240
Appendix: Elk River Public Arts 98
Goal: Engage the community in the process of public art
Strategies:
• Include citizen representatives as part of an arts selection committee.
• Allow for programs such as a “People’s Choice” for voting on and selecting pieces for the city’s permanent
collection.
• Engage decision makers in business and government.
• Create an event such as a business/benefactors luncheon or awards program to introduce artists and
projects to civic leaders.
• Incorporate artists in other government run public engagement processes.
• Encourage community groups to raise money to purchase and install public art.
Goal: Support public artists
Strategies:
• Maintain and develop arts based programming in recreation, community education, and within the
school district to further the development of new and emerging artists.
• Compensate artists for their public art contributions.
• Explore the development of affordable artist space for studios and sale of art.
• Pursue grants to fund public art projects.
Page 166 of 240
99 City of Elk River - Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix A
Elk
River
Cottage
Grove
Red
Wing Rosemount
Inver
Grove
Heights
South
St.
Paul
Andover Shakopee
Population (2010)22974 34589 16459 21874 33880 20160 30598 37076
Total number of city
parks 43 32 37 29 28 15 67 30
Number of community
parks 2 5 26 3 2 3 1 5
Number of community
playfield parks
(sports complexes)
3 3 2 5 1 2 10 5
Number of neighborhood
parks 17 21 15 15 13 7 26 18
Number of tot lots or
mini-parks 1 2 6 0 3 25 3
Total city parks/parkland
acreage 1078 1217 1421 533.74 581 245 569 766
Special use facilities
acreage (golf courses,
Arenas, community
centers, etc.) not covered
above.
26 225 413 8 288 12 1 13
Other Parks and Recreation Lands
School athletic field
acreage (under agreement
with city or usable by
athletics groups)
215 265 0 12 109 3 7 68
Non-city parks & open
space acreage (State,
regional, County, private
with public access).
Please list major non-city
parks in your community.
0 807 7565 County Park
225 793 45 93 86
Table A.1 Peer Communities Survey*
Appendix A
peer Communities Survey
Page 167 of 240
100Appendix A
Recreation Facilities
(available/programmed
for public use)
Elk
River
Cottage
Grove
Red
Wing Rosemount
Inver
Grove
Heights
South
St.
Paul
Andover Shakopee
Miles of paved trails (off-
road)16.3 56 14 38.1 30.8 6 26 15.9
Miles of unpaved trails 8.4 6 16.51 1.8 8 4 1 0
Miles of bike routes
(signed)56 9.6 19 0 4.5 0.75 0
Number of tennis courts 3 11 3 8 12 8 2 23
Number of outdoor
basketball courts 13 18 8 6 3 13 13
Number of full/adult
indoor basketball/
gymnasium courts.
CITY
0 0 INP 2 INP INP 4 INP
Number of full/adult
indoor basketball/
gymnasium courts.
SCHOOL
20 10 INP 3 INP INP 5 INP
Number of outdoor ice
rinks 4
7
(+5 more
open
flooded)
2 6 8 5 12 9
Number of indoor ice
rinks 2 3 0 1 2 2 1 1
Number of adult baseball
fields 3 5 5 0 2 1 2 (shared
w/ youth)3
Number of youth
baseball fields 11 18 7 18 17 (1
dedicated)6 18 4
Number of adult softball
fields 11 4 3 5 16 6 4 (shared
w/ youth)8
Number of youth softball
fields 11 16 3 18 (Combined
w/ bb)
16
(Shared)8 9 24
*Data provided by parks and recreation staff in each city. Information is accurate to the level provided by staff. Information not provided denoted by INP.
Page 168 of 240
101 City of Elk River - Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix A
Recreation Facilities
(available/programmed for
public use)
Elk River Cottage Grove Red Wing Rosemount Inver Grove Heights South St. Paul Andover Shakopee
Number of large adult size
soccer/lacrosse/football fields 4 15 1 11 12 4 7 1
Number of youth size soccer/
lacrosse/football fields
Shared with
adult fields and
baseball/softball
fields
21 3 6
Shared with adult fields
and baseball/softball
fields
Shared with adult fields and
baseball/softball fields
Shared with adult fields and
baseball/softball fields
Shared with adult fields and
baseball/softball fields
Does your city have a senior
center? Please indicate the
approximate size of the center
Yes
No
(Comm. Ed. Does)
No 9000 SF Yes Yes Yes No
Does your city have teen
center? Please indicate the
approximate size of the center
No No No No Community Center No Community Center Yes
Does your city have a skate
park?
Existing
one is out of
commission
Yes Yes Yes Yes No Yes Yes
Other Recreation Facilities
• Disc Golf
• Dog Park
• Golf Course*
• Splash Pad
• Mountain
Bike Course
• River Oaks Golf
Course
• Disc Golf
• Bike Park
• Dog Park
• Fishing Pond
• Archery Range
• Splash Pad
• 2 Scenic
Overlooks
• Non-profit
Nature Center
(non-city)
• Disc Golf
• 2 Community
Gardens
• Volleyball Court
at Bay Point Park
• Sensory Garden at
Colvill Park
• Colvill Aquatic
Center
• Horseshoe Pits (2)
• Marinas
• 49
Community
Garden Plots
• Disc Golf
• Disc Golf
• Dog Park
• Inverwood Golf
Course
• Rich Valley
Athletic Complex
• The Grove
Aquatic and
Fitness Center
• Kaposia Park 27 Hole
Golf Course
• Kaposia Landing Dog
Park
• McMorrow Field
Community Garden
• Lorraine Park Splash
Pad
• Northview Park Pool
• Public Boat Launch
• Community Gardens
• Sandventure Aquatic Park
• Disc Golf
• Archery Range
• Boat Launch
• Dog Park
Presence of Riverfront Parks or
Trails Yes
• Hazel D Moors
Park
• River Oaks
Scenic Overlook
• Grey Cloud
Dunes Scientific
Natural Area
• Bay Point Park
• Levee Park
• Colvill Park
• Riverfront Trail
• Spring Lake
Park (Dakota
Co.)
• Heritage Village
Park
• Rock Island Swing
Bridge
• River Front Park
• Mississippi River
Regional Trail
• Kaposia Landing
• DNR Boat Launch
• Mississippi River
Regional Trail
• Grow Oak View Park
• Strootman Park
• River Trails Park
• Timber Rivers Park
• Minnesota River Archery
Boat Launch
• Huber Park
• Memorial Park
• Minnesota Valley National
Wildlife Refuge (Not city)
Peer Communities Survey continued
Page 169 of 240
102Appendix A
Recreation Facilities
(available/programmed for
public use)
Elk RiverCottage GroveRed WingRosemount Inver Grove Heights South St. Paul Andover Shakopee
Number of large adult size
soccer/lacrosse/football fields415111 12 4 7 1
Number of youth size soccer/
lacrosse/football fields
Shared with
adult fields and
baseball/softball
fields
2136
Shared with adult fields
and baseball/softball
fields
Shared with adult fields and
baseball/softball fields
Shared with adult fields and
baseball/softball fields
Shared with adult fields and
baseball/softball fields
Does your city have a senior
center? Please indicate the
approximate size of the center
Yes
No
(Comm. Ed. Does)
No9000 SF Yes Yes Yes No
Does your city have teen
center? Please indicate the
approximate size of the center
NoNoNoNo Community Center No Community Center Yes
Does your city have a skate
park?
Existing
one is out of
commission
YesYesYes Yes No Yes Yes
Other Recreation Facilities
• Disc Golf
• Dog Park
• Golf Course*
• Splash Pad
• Mountain
Bike Course
• River Oaks Golf
Course
• Disc Golf
• Bike Park
• Dog Park
• Fishing Pond
• Archery Range
• Splash Pad
• 2 Scenic
Overlooks
• Non-profit
Nature Center
(non-city)
• Disc Golf
• 2 Community
Gardens
• Volleyball Court
at Bay Point Park
• Sensory Garden at
Colvill Park
• Colvill Aquatic
Center
• Horseshoe Pits (2)
• Marinas
• 49
Community
Garden Plots
• Disc Golf
• Disc Golf
• Dog Park
• Inverwood Golf
Course
• Rich Valley
Athletic Complex
• The Grove
Aquatic and
Fitness Center
• Kaposia Park 27 Hole
Golf Course
• Kaposia Landing Dog
Park
• McMorrow Field
Community Garden
• Lorraine Park Splash
Pad
• Northview Park Pool
• Public Boat Launch
• Community Gardens
• Sandventure Aquatic Park
• Disc Golf
• Archery Range
• Boat Launch
• Dog Park
Presence of Riverfront Parks or
TrailsYes
• Hazel D Moors
Park
• River Oaks
Scenic Overlook
• Grey Cloud
Dunes Scientific
Natural Area
• Bay Point Park
• Levee Park
• Colvill Park
• Riverfront Trail
• Spring Lake
Park (Dakota
Co.)
• Heritage Village
Park
• Rock Island Swing
Bridge
• River Front Park
• Mississippi River
Regional Trail
• Kaposia Landing
• DNR Boat Launch
• Mississippi River
Regional Trail
• Grow Oak View Park
• Strootman Park
• River Trails Park
• Timber Rivers Park
• Minnesota River Archery
Boat Launch
• Huber Park
• Memorial Park
• Minnesota Valley National
Wildlife Refuge (Not city)
*Data provided by parks and recreation staff in each city. Information is accurate to the level provided by staff. Information not provided denoted by INP.
Page 170 of 240
103 City of Elk River - Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix A
Recreation Facilities
(available/programmed for
public use)
Elk River Cottage Grove Red Wing Rosemount Inver Grove
Heights South St. Paul Andover Shakopee
Indoor Facilities • Arena
• Facilities at
Lions Park
• Senior
Center
• Rosemount
Community
Center
• Steeple
Center
• Family
Resource
Center
• The Grove Aquatic
and Fitness Center
• Ice Arena
• Wakota Ice Arena
• Central Square
Community Center
(fitness area, indoor
pool, meeting space,
gymnastics)
• Kaposia Park Pavilion
(Enclosed park
pavilion building with
restrooms, kitchen, hard
wood floor)
• Andover Community
Center
• Ice Arena
• Y
• Fieldhouse
• Shakopee Community
Center and Ice Arena
Presence of Signature Parks • Dave
Anderson
Athletic
Complex
• Orono Park
• Youth
Athletic
Complex
• Woodland
Trails
• Hamlet Park
• Highlands Park
• Cottage Grove
Ravine Regional
Park
• River Oaks Golf
Course
• Barn Bluff –
Hiking, rock
climbing, views of
downtown and the
Mississippi River
• Memorial Park –
Hiking, mountain
biking, cross
country skiing,
snowshoeing, disc
golf, upper and
lower quarries
picnic areas,
overlook
• Central Park
– Band shell,
balustrade
• Colvill Park –
Picnic shelters,
indoor facility,
Colvill Pool,
marinas, eagle
watching
• John Rich –
Veteran’s memorial,
fountain & pergola
• Bay Point Park
– Picnic shelter,
playground, dock,
walking path,
volleyball court,
marinas
• Central Park
w/ bandshell
and splash
pad
• Rich Valley
Athletic
Complex
• Swing Bridge Park
• North Valley and
South Valley
Parks
• Heritage Village
Park (future)
• Lions Park
• Salem Hills Park
• Harmon Park
• Kaposia Park
• Kaposia Landing
• McMorrow Field
• Lorraine Park
• Northview Park
• Prairie Knoll Park
• Sunshine Park
• Andover Station North
(ASN)
• Kelsey Round Lake Park
• Huber Park
• MN State Valley Trail
• Valleyfair
• Canterbury Park
• Murphy’s Landing
• Tahpah Park
Peer Communities Survey continued
Page 171 of 240
104Appendix A
Recreation Facilities
(available/programmed for
public use)
Elk RiverCottage GroveRed WingRosemount Inver Grove
Heights South St. Paul Andover Shakopee
Indoor Facilities• Arena
• Facilities at
Lions Park
• Senior
Center
• Rosemount
Community
Center
• Steeple
Center
• Family
Resource
Center
• The Grove Aquatic
and Fitness Center
• Ice Arena
• Wakota Ice Arena
• Central Square
Community Center
(fitness area, indoor
pool, meeting space,
gymnastics)
• Kaposia Park Pavilion
(Enclosed park
pavilion building with
restrooms, kitchen, hard
wood floor)
• Andover Community
Center
• Ice Arena
• Y
• Fieldhouse
• Shakopee Community
Center and Ice Arena
Presence of Signature Parks• Dave
Anderson
Athletic
Complex
• Orono Park
• Youth
Athletic
Complex
• Woodland
Trails
• Hamlet Park
• Highlands Park
• Cottage Grove
Ravine Regional
Park
• River Oaks Golf
Course
• Barn Bluff –
Hiking, rock
climbing, views of
downtown and the
Mississippi River
• Memorial Park –
Hiking, mountain
biking, cross
country skiing,
snowshoeing, disc
golf, upper and
lower quarries
picnic areas,
overlook
• Central Park
– Band shell,
balustrade
• Colvill Park –
Picnic shelters,
indoor facility,
Colvill Pool,
marinas, eagle
watching
• John Rich –
Veteran’s memorial,
fountain & pergola
• Bay Point Park
– Picnic shelter,
playground, dock,
walking path,
volleyball court,
marinas
• Central Park
w/ bandshell
and splash
pad
• Rich Valley
Athletic
Complex
• Swing Bridge Park
• North Valley and
South Valley
Parks
• Heritage Village
Park (future)
• Lions Park
• Salem Hills Park
• Harmon Park
• Kaposia Park
• Kaposia Landing
• McMorrow Field
• Lorraine Park
• Northview Park
• Prairie Knoll Park
• Sunshine Park
• Andover Station North
(ASN)
• Kelsey Round Lake Park
• Huber Park
• MN State Valley Trail
• Valleyfair
• Canterbury Park
• Murphy’s Landing
• Tahpah Park
*Data provided by parks and recreation staff in each city. Information is accurate to the level provided by staff. Information not provided denoted by INP.
Page 172 of 240
105 City of Elk River - Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix B
Appendix B
Elk River Resident Survey
Elk River Parks and Recreation
COMMUNITY SURVEY
Please take a moment to fill out this survey and drop it in the mail by April 30th. No additional postage is necessary. Your input is very important and will help guide park and recreation decisions. Thank you for your time.
1. How often do members of your household visit Elk River parks?
2. In which Elk River activities have you or members of your household participated in during the past three (3) years? Please check all that apply.
3. Which Elk River Parks and Recreation facilities do members of your household use? Please check all that apply.
4. Are there reasons that your household does not use certain Elk River Parks and Recreation programs and facilities?
5. What type of outdoor park or recreation facilities do you feel are lacking in Elk River? Please check all that apply.
6. In which additional indoor recreation activities or facilities would you and/or members of your household be interested?
At least once per week
Picnicking Walking/Hiking
Ice skating/Hockey
Birdwatching
Indoor court sports (ie. basketball, volleyball)
Every day
Playgrounds
Oak Knoll Athletic Complex
Rental Facility (Trott Brook Farms Barn, Lions Park Center
Rivers Edge Commons
Hillside City Park
Inadequate transportation
Baseball/Softball fields
Children’s play areas
Teen center
Skate park
Facilities are too far from home
Natural areas
Fitness center (equipment & aerobics)
River access
Gymnasium (basketball, volleyball, etc.)
Park landscaping
Auditorium
Walking/running track
Bicycling/walking trails
Banquet facility
Multi-use fieldhouseClimbing wall
Activity Center 55yrs+
Fishing Pier
Dog Park
Great Northern Trail
School recreation facilities
Park Shelters (Lions Park, Orono Park)
Woodland Trails Park
Too expensive
Picnic areas
Indoor play equipment
Soccer/football/lacrosse fields
Facilities and programs are not available
Not enough time to recreate
Interpretive/historic areas
Racquetball
Splash Pad (water play)
Indoor tennis
Skate park
Swimming Pool
Other:
Youth Athletic Complex (YAC)
Boat Launch (Orono/Babcock)
Orono Athletic Complex Elk River Ice Arena Orono Park and/or Beach
Orono Park Playground
YMCA
Not interested in current offerings
Not aware they existed
Other reasons:
Other:
Visiting nature areas
Non-traditional sports (ie. skateboarding, climbing)Tennis
At least once per month
Swimming Golf
Jogging/Running
Organized outdoor softball/baseball
Organized outdoor soccer/football
Organized outdoor programs (ie. nature activities)
Outdoor court sports (ie. basketball, sand volleyball)
Fishing
Disc golf
1-11 times per year
Never
Cross country skiing
Mountain biking
Inline skating
Biathlon
Bicycling
Other:
Other:
Informal sports (ie. playing catch, “pick up” sports games, frisbee
Elk River Parks and Recreation Department
13065 Orono Parkway
Elk River, MN 55330
Dear Elk River resident, The Elk River Parks and Recreation Department is currently developing a new system master plan. By receiving this survey, you have been selected to participate in our planning efforts. Your completion of this survey is important to this effort. Your comments will be confidential.Please take a few minutes to complete this survey, fold as per the instructions, tape it shut, and mail it back to us. Postage is prepaid.We thank you in advance for your help as we plan for the community of Elk River and future park and recreation opportunities!Sincerely,Calvin P. PortnerCity AdministratorMichael HeckerParks and Recreation DirectorPARK AN
D
RECREATI
O
N
COMMU
NI
T
Y
SURVEY
Page 173 of 240
106Appendix B ImplementatIon7. Overall, how satisfied are you with the following elements of the Elk River Parks and Recreation system and what priority does the element hold for your household in the future?
11. According to the map to the right, in which half of the city do you reside?
8. Which of the following improvements/additions to the Elk River Parks and Recreation system would you be willing to support? (ie. through a bond referendum -- temporary annual property tax increase)
12. We would like your opinion on several issues facing the Elk River Parks and Recreation Department Please read each statement and
mark the response that best represents your opinion.
13. Please list any other Parks and Recreation improvements or additions you would like to see in Elk River or any comments you have related to parks and recreation in Elk River.
9. What is your age?
10. How many people in the following age categories live in your household? Please fill in the number of people in each age category, including yourself.
Trails (walking and bicycling)
NORTH Includes Woodland Trails Park, Alba Ridge Park, Burr Oak Park, Windsor Park
SOUTH Includes downtown Elk River, Orono Lake, Meadowvale Heights Park, Hillside City Park, Trottbrook Farms Park
Indoor recreation facilities (gymnasiums, swimming, ice arena, fitness equipment)
Athletic Complexes (Oak Knoll, Orono Athletic Complex, Youth Athletic Complex)
Active Parks (ballfields, soccer, tennis, etc.)
Passive Parks (picnic, natural areas, green spaces, etc.)
Recreation programs - Ages under 6
Recreation programs - Ages 6 - 12
Recreation programs - Ages 13 - 18
Recreation programs - Ages 19 - 54
Recreation programs - Ages 55+
Park Maintenance
Special events (music and dance performances, festivals, concerts, etc.)
Communications (recreation brochures, website, park and trail maps, etc.)
Biking/Walking trails - add to and extend them
Strongly agree
Strongly agree
Strongly agree
Strongly agree
Agree
Agree
Agree
Agree
Not sure
Not sure
Not sure
Not sure
Disagree
Disagree
Disagree
Disagree
Strongly disagree
Strongly disagree
Strongly disagree
Strongly disagree
a. Elk River Parks and Recreation should concentrate on improving existing facilities.
b. Elk River should continue to acquire key lands for future park, recreation, and natural resource needs.
c. Elk River Parks and Recreation should continue to expand public access to the riverfront.
d. I am satisfied with the recreation services and facilities that I receive for my tax dollar.
Athletic Complexes - make improvements to existing facilities
Community Athletic Facilities - Acquire land
Community Passive Parks - Acquire land
A teen center
Under 20
0-5 years
30-39 years
21-40
6-11 years
40-49 years
41-55
12-19 years
50-64 years
Over 55
20-29 years
65+ years
An expanded senior activity center
Multi-use fieldhouse
A splash pad/spray park (water play area)
You can also send additional comments to: CommunitySurvey@ElkRiverMN.gov
A nature center
Elk River Ice Arena
Skateboarding/Climbing - Include more non-traditional recreation
Great Support Marginal Support No Support
Satisfied High Priority Low PriorityUnsatisfied
Current Rating Priority for Future
10
10
169
Thank you for your assistance. Please fold with the City’s address facing out, tape along the top, and drop the questionnaire in the mail.
Please visit www.ElkRiverMN.gov to follow the Parks and Recreation Master Plan process and participate in future community input events!
NORTH
SOUTH
169
181st Ave
Mississippi River
192nd Ave
1
Twin Lakes Rd NWElk
L
a
k
e
R
d
Page 174 of 240
Powered by Nature
City of Elk River
Parks and Recreation Master Plan
June 2015
Page 175 of 240
Master Park Plan Categories from 15 different Cities
Mission/Vision
History
Intro/Overview
Inventory/Condition Analysis
Park Classification System
Peer Comparison
Gap Analysis/Needs Assessment
Trends
Surveys/Public Input/Community Engagement
Influences on plan
Framework
Programming
Park Plans
Trail Plan
Park Land Acquisition
Natural Resources
Implementation/Initiatives/Enhancements/
Strategy
Funding
Sustaining/
maintaining the park system
Arts/Cultural Plan
Customer Experience
Marketing/Branding
Page 176 of 240
The Elk River Vision
A welcoming community with revolutionary and spirited resourcefulness, exceptional service, and community
engagement that encourages and inspires prosperity
Request for Action
To
Parks and Recreation Commission
Item Number
10.2
Meeting Date
June 11, 2025
Prepared By
Jeff Shelby, Recreation Manager
Item Description
Playground Plan
Reviewed by
Jeff Shelby
Joe Stremcha
Action Requested
Discuss and create a plan for updating the cities playground amenties.
Background/Discussion
Our playground amenities are beginning to reach the end of their designed lifespans. We currently have 16
parks with playground amenities and half of those are due to be replaced in the next 5 years. A plan is needed
to manage this next phase in our parks. Playground amenities will need to be removed as they age out and the
commission is asked to help determine a course of action to manage these amenities. Factors that should be
considered are cost, changing demographics, need, and future development.
Financial Impact
Funding for the playgrounds will need to be included within the Capital Improvement Plan.
Mission/Policy/Goal
Meet changing needs - agile. Responsible for every dollar - good stewards. Opportunity to live, work, and
play.
Attachments
1. Interactive Elk River Park Map 2024_202402091023111102
2. CIP Spreadsheet - PLAYGROUND REPLACEMENT
3. Playground Replacement Review
Page 177 of 240
GREAT NORTHERN TRAIL30
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3331
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2018
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39
CO RD 32
RA
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W
CO RD 33
PROCTOR RD NWCO RD
1
CO RD 12
221ST AVE CO RD 121
TWIN LAKES RD (CO RD 13) 169
10
10
1
2
LAKE
ORONO
CITY HALL
HISTORIC
DOWNTOWN
MISSISSIPPI RIVER
PUBLIC LIBRARY
FURNITURE AND THINGS
COMMUNITY EVENT CENTER
1000 SCHOOL ST. NW
Community Parks
Orono Park
18599 Gary Street
Rivers Edge Commons
679 Main Street
At hletic & Active Recreation
Dave Anderson Athletic Complex (DAAC)
13300 Business Center Drive
Hillside Park
10801 181st Avenue NW
Lion John Weicht Park
1104 Lions Park Drive
Oak Knoll Athletic Complex (OKAC)
999 Proctor Avenue
Plants and Things Recreational Complex
(PT Complex)
9950 165th Avenue
Woodland Trails Regional Park
20135 Elk Lake Road
Neighborhood Parks
Baldwin Park
371 Baldwin Avenue
Barrington Park
575 Auburn Place
Country Crossings Park
17970 Joplin Street
Deerfield Hill Park
19210 Carson Street
Fresno Park
18175 Fresno Street
Highlands Park
19555 Auburn Street
Kliever Lake Fields
17950 Johnson Street
Kliever Pointe Park
10100 176th Lane
Meadow Park
235 2nd Street
Meadowvale Heights Park
13170 196th Avenue
Mississippi Oaks Park
17998 Elgin Street
Ridgewood East Park
19251 Highland Road
Riverplace Park
13818 186th Lane
Trott Brook Farms Park
18300 Trott Brook Parkway
West Oaks Park
14375 183rd Avenue
Windsor Park
13444 212th Avenue
Conservation/Scenic Areas
Babcock Memorial Rest Area
17900 Highway 10
Bailey Point Nature Preserve
1 Morton Avenue
William H. Houlton Conservation Area
1801 Main Street NW
Open Space/Undeveloped Parks
Alba Ridge Park
10801 Brook Road
Birch Meadow Park
10500 Twin Lakes Parkway
Burr Oak Park
13585 Ranch Road NW
Camp Cozy
18800 Waco Street
Elk Hills Green Space
220 Elk Hills Drive
Harris Island Park
14151 189th Avenue
Kliever Marsh Park
10375 175th Avenue
North Terrace Park
820 Holt Avenue
Oak Savanna Park
13240 Orono Parkway
Oxbow Park
18039 Concord Street
Rice Lake Park
12451 221st Avenue
Royal Valley Park
10995 190th Avenue
Sedge Meadow Park
11065 197th Avenue
Full Amenities Key Located on Back
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PARK HOURS
6:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m.
Dogs must be leashed at all times, unless in designated areas.
Parking Play Equipment Picnic Area Natural Trails Paved Trails Grill
Shelters/Pavilions Dog Waste Station Dog Park Restroom Boat Landing Ballfield
Basketball Soccer/Field Volleyball Ice Rink Archery Range Skiing
Outdoor Shower Fishing Pier Kayaking Mountain Biking Water Features Concerts
Swimming Beach Sledding Pickleball Nature Play Area
8. Woodland Trails Regional Park
20135 Elk Lake Road
1. Orono Park
18599 Gary Street
2. Rivers Edge Commons
679 Main Street
4. Hillside Park
10801 181st Avenue NW
5. Lion John Weicht Park
1104 Lions Park Drive
MAP KEY
Park Amenities Key
RailroadHighway Great Northern Trail City Facilities
Pa rks and Re creationFor detailed information and rules on city parks and facilities: ElkRiverMN.gov/parks | 763.635.1150
30
Developed Parks
(swim. play. discover.)
1,444 ACRES OF PARKS
in Elk River that includes:
13
Undeveloped Parks
(no facilities and parking)
3
Conservation/Scenic Areas
(and one nature preserve)
Park Pavilion Rentals There are pavilions available for rent at Lion John Weicht Park, Orono Park, and Woodland
Trails Regional Park. Rivers Edge Commons Park (pictured) is available for wedding rentals.
Page 178 of 240
Country Crossings Park Playground 2000 $28,205 2025 $150,000
Riverplace Park Playground 2001 $39,189 2026 $155,250
Fresno Park Playground 2002 $22,386 2027 $160,684
Mississippi Oaks Park Playground 2002 $25,893 2027 $160,684
Highlands Park Playground 2003 $36,240 2028 $166,308
West Oaks Park Playground 2005 $42,640 2030 $178,183
Windsor Park Playground 2005 $27,902 2030 $178,183
Kliever Point Park Playground 2005 $41,380 2030 $178,183
Kliever Lake Fields Park Playground 2006 $36,999 2031 $184,450
Meadowvale Heights Park Playground 2008 $60,000 2033 $197,685
Orono Park Playground 2013 $260,700 2038 ***$800,000
Barrington Park Playground 2017 $96,000 2042 $270,512
Deerfield Hill Park Playground 2018 $81,500 2043 $280,138
PT Recreation Complex Playground 2020 $100,000 2045 $300,196
Lions John Weicht Park Playground 2024 $408,000 2049 $916,303
Trott Brook Farms Park Playground 2024 $118,033 2049 $269,578
Life expectancy of playground equipment is roughly 25 years
Replacement costs are rough estimates, as noted
Standard replacement cost in 2025 is approximately $150,000
3.5% constant annual inflation is factored into the years going forward to arrrive at approximate future replacement cost
***Because of the complexity of the Orono playground, staff believes it will require a replacement amount exceeding the normal inflationary rate
Replacement Year
(Estimated)
Replacement Cost
(Estimated)Park Name Asset Discription
Year
Installed
Purchase
Price
Page 179 of 240
City CouncilPlayground
Replacement Review
Page 180 of 240
City Council
Country Crossings Park
17970 Joplin St.
Playground/Swings
Basketball Court
Sledding Hill
Open Play Area
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City Council
Riverplace Park
13818 186th Lane
Playground/Swings
Basketball Court
Ice Skating
Paved Trail
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City Council
Fresno Park
18175 Fresno St.
Playground/Swings
Open Play Area
Sandbox
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City Council
Mississippi Oaks Park
17998 Elgin St.
Playground/Swings
Ice Skating
Open Play Area
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Highlands Park
19550 Auburn St.
Playground/Swings
Basketball ½ Court
Pickleball/Tennis
Open Play Area
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City Council
West Oaks Park
14375 183rd Ave
Playground
Park Shelter
Open Play Area
Paved Trail
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Windsor Park
13444 212th Ave
Playground/Swings
Gazebo
Paved Trail
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City Council
Kliever Pointe Park
10100 176th Lane
Playground/Swing
Basketball ½ court
Paved Trail
Page 210 of 240
City Council
Kliever Pointe Park
10100 176th Lane
Playground/Swing
Basketball ½ court
Paved Trail
Page 211 of 240
City Council
Kliever Pointe Park
10100 176th Lane
Playground/Swing
Basketball ½ court
Paved Trail
Page 212 of 240
City Council
Kliever Pointe Park
10100 176th Lane
Playground/Swing
Basketball ½ court
Paved Trail
Page 213 of 240
City Council
Kliever Pointe Park
10100 176th Lane
Playground/Swing
Basketball ½ court
Paved Trail
Page 214 of 240
City Council
Kliever Lake Fields Park
17950 Johnson St.
Playground/Swings
Basketball ½ court
Climbing Feature
Open Play Area/Soccer Field
Paved Trail
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City Council
Meadowvale Heights Park
13170 196th St.
Playground
Boardwalk
Open Space
Paved Trail
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City Council
Orono Park
18599 Gary St.
Playground
Shelters/Pavilion
Dog Park
Pickleball
Splash Pad
Volleyball
Skate Park
Fishing Pier/Dock
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City Council
Barrington Park
575 Auburn Place
Playground/Swings
Basketball ½ Court
Sandbox
Open Play Area
Page 230 of 240
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Page 234 of 240
City Council
Deerfield Hill Park.
19210 Carson St.
Playground/Swings
Basketball ½ court
Sledding Hill
Open Play Area
Page 235 of 240
City Council
Deerfield Hill Park.
19210 Carson St
Playground/Swings
Basketball ½ court
Sledding Hill
Open Play Area
Page 236 of 240
City Council
Deerfield Hill Park.
19210 Carson St
Playground/Swings
Basketball ½ court
Sledding Hill
Open Play Area
Page 237 of 240
City Council
Deerfield Hill Park.
19210 Carson St
Playground/Swings
Basketball ½ court
Sledding Hill
Open Play Area
Page 238 of 240
City Council
Deerfield Hill Park.
19210 Carson St
Playground/Swings
Basketball ½ court
Sledding Hill
Open Play Area
Page 239 of 240
City Council
Deerfield Hill Park.
19210 Carson St
Playground/Swings
Basketball ½ court
Sledding Hill
Open Play Area
Page 240 of 240