Adopt Resolution #18-039 Supporting the Realignment of the Central Anoka County Regional Trail

Purpose:
The purpose of this case is to consider a Resolution supporting the realignment of the Central Anoka County Regional Trail to the west, from Ramsey Boulevard, to be aligned to Center Street, the Northstar Commuter Rail station and existing skyway, and future grade separated crossing of Hwy 10, for a safe, direct, and multi-modal connection to the Mississippi River Regional Trail, and Mississippi West Regional Park, (as depicted in the first attachment). 

Background:
The proposed realignment of the regional trail was first discussed in 2011—recognizing the difficulty presented by pedestrian and bicyclist crossing of Hwy 10 at Ramsey Boulevard, with an approximately 200' foot deep intersection, 32 points of potential conflict and sometimes high vehicular speeds. 

In 2017, City Council adopted a Resolution supporting a Master Plan Amendment for Mississippi West Regional Park—which also provided the right-of-way for the Riverdale Drive extension through the north edge of the park.  At that time, the merits of a realigned Central Anoka County Regional Trail were evaluated, and subsequently supported by Anoka County Parks.

An informational open house on this specific proposal has been advertised and is scheduled to be held at Ramsey City Hall on February 12th from 5 to 7 PM.

Observations:
The Central Anoka County Regional Trail is an excellent recreational (and transportation) amenity for Ramsey residents, and connects them via trail to broad swaths of the county. This includes Bunker Hills Regional Park to the east, with sections planned to be completed that will link the Rice Creek Chain of Lakes near Lino Lakes and Centerville, and on to Washington County.  Approximately 19 miles of this 26 mile trail are in place today.

The rationale for supporting the realignment in Ramsey is best summarized by the quote on page 5 of the attached draft Master Plan Amendment:

"Currently the City of Ramsey has limited access to the Mississippi River and Mississippi West Regional Park because Highway 10 is a large barrier for bicycle and pedestrian access. This amendment proposes to change the alignment of the Central Anoka County Regional Trail within the City of Ramsey to better connect with local parks, trails, restaurants, businesses and transit, while still providing a [safe] connection to the river and Mississippi West Regional Park."

On February 8th, 2018 the City of Ramsey's Park and Recreation Commission recommended Council adopt Resolution #

Alternatives:

Alternative #1 - Adopt Resolution #18-039 Supporting the Realignment of the Central Anoka County Regional Trail

Alternative #2 - Deny adoption of Resolution #18-039 at this time.



 

No funding from the City of Ramsey is required for the proposed regional trail realignment—rather, realigning the regional trail within The COR can be a very favorable asset in securing grant funding for public improvements.

The Park and Recreation Commission and Staff recommend adoption of the resolution, supporting the realignment of the regional trail.

Motion to Adopt Resolution #18-039 Supporting the Realignment of the Central Anoka County Regional Trail.