Authorize Trail Easement Over West 20' Feet of 5195 142nd Avenue (a.k.a. former AMOCO site)

The purpose of this case is to receive EDA's approval (as owner) to place a trail easement over the westerly 20' feet of the city-owned properly commonly referred to as the 'old AMOCO site'. This easement would allow the city to construct a trail parallel to T.H. #47 in the future at such time as a two more easements are acquired to the north—and there is funding in place.

A trail in this location is one of the priority locations in the city where there are 'gaps' in the planned-for trail system. This location along the state highway is in the urbanized area and along a high volume roadway, thus improving safety for pedestrains and motorists when the trail would be in place.  The first attachment shows the 'cow path' where people are walking on the highway, and then angling through the ROW to the existing trail along the Holiday store.

N/A

While the alternative exists to 'do nothing at this time' staff does not recomend this, as aquiring an easement in the future from an established business can be complicated, time consuming and potentially costly.  It may be noted that a trail when in place, can be a significant benefit to a retail establishment, and therefore can actually add value to this city-owned parcel that is for sale.

The authorization of a trail easement does not implicate the city to construct a trail or incur any significant cost.  The fees to record the easement are believed to be less than $100 and would be accommodated within the Parks 2018 General Fund budget.

Staff recommends recording this trail easement at this time—before there is a buyer interested in the property.

Motion to authorize staff to proceed with recording a 20' foot trail easement over the city-owned property at 5195 142nd Ave NW.