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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2007-08-14 Park Board Packetow e A, N� v ! J��oR�e AGENDA Regular Meeting of the Edina Park Board Tuesday, August 14, 2007, 7:00 P.M. Edina City Hall Council Chambers 4801 West 50th Street PARK BOARD MEETING PROCEDURES During "Public Hearings," the Chair will ask for public comment after City staff members make their presentations. If you wish to speak on the topic, you are welcome to do so as long as your comments are relevant to the discussion. To ensure fairness to all speakers and to allow the efficient conduct of a public hearing, speakers must observe the following guidelines: • Individuals must limit their presentations to three minutes or less. The Chair will modify presentation times, as deemed necessary. • Try not to repeat remarks or points of view made by prior speakers and limit comments to the matter under consideration. • In order to maintain a comfortable environment for all those in attendance, the use of signs, clapping, cheering or booing or any other form of verbal or nonverbal communication is not allowed. During "Public Comments," the Chair will ask to hear from those in attendance who would like to speak about something not on the agenda. Individuals must limit their presentations to three minutes or less and cannot speak to an issue for which a public hearing was previously held and closed or a matter scheduled for a future hearing. Individuals should not expect the Park Board to respond to their comments. Instead, the Park Board might direct the matter to staff or consideration at a future meeting. ' • 1 1 R_1; I. APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES: *Tuesday, June 12, 2007, Park Board Work Session Minutes. II. NEW BUSINESS: *A. Proposed Developer's Fund Projects for 2007. *B. Insurance Requirements for Edina Youth Athletic Associations. III. OLD BUSINESS *A. Comprehensive Plan Final Draft. B. Athletic Facilities Fund Raiser Committee/Foundation — George Klus. C. Bike Edina Task Force Update — Todd Fronek. 1 • IV. PUBLIC COMMENT V. UPDATES FROM STAFF VI. PARK BOARD COMMENT *These are agenda items that require or request Park Board action. The City of Edina wants all residents to be comfortable being part of the public process. If you need assistance in the way of hearing amplification, an interpreter, large -print documents or something else, please call 952-927-8861 72 hours in advance of the meeting. 2 Memo To: Edina Park Board From: John Keprios, Director Edina Park and Recreation Department Date: July 30, 2007 Re: TUESDAY, AUGUST 14, 2007, PARK BOARD MEETING STAFF REPORT. Enclosed you should find the following items: 1. Tuesday, June 12, 2007, Park Board Work Session Minutes. 2. Tuesday, August 14, 2007, Park Board Agenda. 3. April 10, 2007, Memo to All Edina Youth Athletic Associations and Clubs. 4. July 30, 2007, Memo to All Edina Youth Athletic Associations and Clubs. 5. Comprehensive Plan Proposed Draft as of 8/7/2007. The following is the monthly Staff Report concerning each item on the agenda with the exception of Approval of the Minutes, Public Comment and Park Board Comment. PARK BOARD MEETING IN THE COUNCIL CHAMBERS EDINA CITYHALL 4801 WEST 50TH STREET The Tuesday, May 8, 2007, Park Board meeting will be at 7:00 p.m. in the City Council Chambers at Edina City Hall. If you are unable to attend, please call either Office Coordinator, Janet Canton, at 952-826-0435 or me at 952-826-0430. II. NEW BUSINESS: A. Proposed Developer's Fund Projects for 2007. There is currently just over $192,000 in the Park Developer's Fund. These funds have traditionally been used for park improvements when other funding is not available. In my view, it is time to use some of this "rainy day fund" to make some much needed improvements in the parks. These needed improvements include: 1. $12,993 for a new replacement wireless electronic scoreboard at Braemar Park's multi-purpose athletic field. 2. Approximately $11,400 for three new replacement wireless electronic scoreboards at Van Valkenburg Park softball complex. 3. $8,672 for purchase and installation of an information welcome kiosk for Rosland Park picnic shelter. 4. Approximately $3,000 for design and development of permanent park maps for information welcome kiosk. 5. $6,548 for new sideline fencing for field #1 at Pamela Park softball complex. 6. $3,000 for replacement of the Edina Art Center's proposed electronic LED sign at 66th and Valley View Road. Braemar Park Scoreboard: -1- The large scoreboard for Braemar Park's multi-purpose field was removed a few years ago because it had worn beyond repair. A new state of the art wireless scoreboard would be a heavily used and valuable addition to the athletic field for all of the sports played on that field, which is primarily soccer and football. Van Valkenburg Park Scoreboards: There are three hard -wired softball scoreboards at Van Valkenburg Park that must be operated from the upper level scoring booth. The scoreboard on field #2 is currently out of order again and needs to be replaced. The remaining two have also reached the end of their life -span and should be replaced, which will result in matching wireless scoreboards for all three fields that will as a result get used more often. Rosland Park Kiosk and Maps: Staff is recommending purchase and installation of a new information welcome kiosk for Rosland Park to be placed near the heavily scheduled picnic shelter. This two-sided information welcome kiosk is needed to inform park users that the picnic shelter can be reserved for exclusive private use. The kiosk also will provide information on how to reserve the shelter and will provide information about when it is reserved to forewarn park users. I envision a monthly schedule to show reservations that will be continually updated. The kiosk will also have a map of the park, its facilities and amenities, a list of park regulations, and a map of the disc golf course. I envision having an area for paper handouts and flyers that have a map of the disc golf course with a score card area on the back, as well as a list of rules and etiquette for disc golfers. Pamela Park Softball Field Fencing: I am recommending $6,548 to fund our portion of sideline fencing for Pamela Park's softball field #1, which is where the Varsity Girls Softball Team plays their home games and practices. The total project cost for the fencing is $14,640; however, the Girls Fastpitch Softball Association is donating $4,064; the School District is donating $2,064; and the Edina Boosters are donating $2,000 towards this project. Staff is recommending that our share of the project costs ($6,548) come from the Park Developer's Fund. Art Center LED Electronic Message Board Sign: I am also recommending $3,000 to help fund the replacement of the Art Center display sign at 66th and Valley View Road. The old sign was recently demolished by an automobile accident. The sign that we propose to replace the old sign will be a new state of the art LED electronic message board to promote Art Center classes and activities. This new electronic message board can be programmed by a wireless keyboard computer within 200 feet of the message board. The automobile owner's insurance company will cover only approximately $4,000 of the replacement cost, which is the estimated value of the demolished old sign board. The new proposed LED electronic message board will cost $7,082. We need an additional $3,000 to provide a much improved message board. The above projects total approximately $45,613. Staff recommends that the Park Board recommend use of Park Developer's Funds in an amount not to exceed $50,000 to fund the five projects listed above. It is obviously my goal not to exceed our estimates; however, we are unsure of the final costs associated with professional map design and development for the kiosk. $50,000 should be more than we need for these six projects; however, I just don't want to be left short of needed funds to complete the above six projects. Formal Park Board action is requested on this agenda item. -2- B. Insurance Requirements for Edina Youth Athletic Associations. One of the recommendations from the Edina Youth Sports Task Force was for the City of Edina to consider minimum insurance mandates of youth athletic associations and clubs that use City of Edina's athletic fields and facilities. On April 10, 2007, I mailed a memo to all Edina youth athletic association presidents to inform them that staff is recommending that the City mandate a minimum of $1,000,000 worth of General Liability insurance. We are also recommending that in the event there are employees of an athletic association, i.e. referees, umpires, instructors, etc., there should also be a requirement to show evidence of Workers' Compensation Insurance coverage. Due to a lack of feedback from youth athletic associations, the agenda item was tabled at the May 8, 2007 Park Board meeting and requested to be placed on the August agenda. On July 30, 2007, I mailed another memo the youth athletic associations and clubs again requesting their feedback if they had issue with the proposed mandate. I did not receive any negative feedback from any youth athletic association that would cause unreasonable hardship for their program. In 2005, the Edina Park and Recreation Department sent a youth sports survey to other Park and Recreation Departments throughout Minnesota. There were 18 communities that responded to the survey. City's answered the question regarding insurance as shown below: Question #3. Does City require associations to have minimum insurance coverage? YES -61% NO -39% Comments — YES $1 million per occurrence $1 million • City is listed as additionally insured with a 1 million dollar policy. • Maplewood Athletic Associations are carried by the city. Our school district requires proof of insurance. • $1 million with the city and school district listed as riders. • Proof of insurance of $1 Million is required. • 1 believe so. Not sure on the amount. Comments — NO • Associations do carry insurance we just do not require a copy of the policy. They should as the League of Minnesota Cities recommends it, but the city has not gotten to this point yet. Staff recommends that the Park Board recommend that the City of Edina mandate a minimum of $1,000,000 worth of General Liability insurance. Staff also recommends that in the event there are employees of an athletic association, i.e. referees, umpires, instructors, etc.; there should also be a requirement to show evidence of Workers' Compensation Insurance coverage. Formal Park Board action is requested on this agenda item III. OLD BUSINESS A. Comprehensive Plan Final Draft. Enclosed is a copy of the proposed final draft of the Edina Parks, Open Space and Natural Resources Chapter of the Comprehensive Plan. The text in bold and italics reflects the changes and additions to the last draft submitted to the Park Board. This final -3- draft should reflect the changes and additions that were requested by both the Park Board and Planning Commission Comprehensive Plan Task Force. One of the more significant changes is the addition of the Vision Statement and Mission Statement that I mentioned at the June Park Board work session. The Planning Commission Task Force asked that I add language about acquiring additional open spaces and park lands as a matter of policy when population density increases. I was also asked to provide a section on trends that impact park and recreation planning. The Task Force also requested language regarding other park and recreation regional facilities in neighboring communities. I was also asked to provide our current 5 -year Capital Improvement Plan. I ask that the Park Board suggest any final touches (additions, changes or deletions) to the proposed final draft that will then be presented to the Planning Commission Task Force for their final approval on August 15 at 5:00 p.m. Formal Park Board action is requested on this agenda item. B. Athletic Facilities Fund Raiser Committee/Foundation — Georize Klus. The Chairman of the Athletic Facilities Fund Raiser Committee/Foundation, George Klus, will give the Park Board a verbal update on the committee's progress. No formal Park action is requested on this agenda item. C. Bike Edina Task Force Update — Todd Fronek. Park Board member Todd Fronek will give the Park Board a verbal update on the Bike Edina Task Force's progress. No formal Park action is requested on this agenda item. IV. PUBLIC COMMENT This is the opportunity for the public to give no more than 3 minutes of comments (each speaker) to the Park Board. V. UPDATES FROM STAFF Staff will give the Park Board verbal updates on status of current construction projects. VI. PARK BOARD COMMENT This is the opportunity for Park Board members to provide comments on park and recreation related matters not on the regular agenda. -4- Minutes of the Edina Park Board Special Work Session Tuesday, June 12, 2007 Edina City Hall, Council Chambers MEMBERS PRESENT: Ray O'Connell, Howard Merriam, Randy Meyer, Todd Fronek, Karla Sitek, Andy Finsness, Linda Presthus MEMBERS ABSENT: Jeff Sorem, Mike Damman, George Klus, Carolyn Nelson STAFF PRESENT: John Keprios, Ed MacHolda, Janet Canton, I. WAIVE FEE FOR FUND RAISER EVENT — BRAEMAR GOLF COURSE Susie Miller, Assistant Manager of Edinborough Park, made a formal request of the Park Board to waive the fees for a fundraiser event on June 29, 2007. She explained that the fund raiser benefit tournament event is intended to raise money for the Larry Nelson Family Fund. Ms. Miller informed the Park Board that Larry Nelson is a golf professional instructor who has donated endless hours of his personal time and energy to the Edina Adaptive Golf Program. She noted that Mr. Nelson was recently diagnosed with brain cancer and therefore the golf community and staff would like to raise funds to help Mr. Nelson and his family during this difficult time. Ms. Miller stated that they are asking that the greens fees and golf cart fee be waived for the participants of the tournament in order to give more money to the family fund. Mr. O'Connell commented that Mr. Nelson has also been very involved with the junior golfers in Edina. Karla Sitek MOVED TO WAIVE THE GREENS FEES AND GOLF CART FEES. Todd Fronek SECONDED THE MOTION. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. Mr. Keprios pointed out that typically they charge a premium for greens fees for a group fund raiser, however, this is an exception because it really is a show of support for someone who has given so much to the city and adaptive programs. II. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Ray O'Connell MOVED TO APPROVE THE MAY 8, 2007 PARK BOARD MINUTES. Todd Fronek SECONDED THE MOTION. MINUTES APPROVED. III. REVIEW OF COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Mr. Keprios introduced Dan Cornejo, Comprehensive Planner. Mr. Cornejo first pointed out that the title is wrong and should read "Edina Parks, Open Space and Natural Resources". Mr. Cornejo explained what the big picture is of the comprehensive plan as well as what everyone's role is in putting the plan together. Mr. Fronek stated that he has two points to make. First, if an area is going to be redeveloped he thinks that is should almost be a requirement that the developer devote a portion of it to park land. Mr. Keprios replied that currently when new development takes place the developer can pay 7% cash in lieu of land if they don't donate a portion of the land they are buying. However, this does not apply to renovation or redevelopment. Mr. Keprios explained that currently this issue is being revisited because state law has just changed. He noted that he agrees with Mr. Fronek in that this should be included in the comprehensive plan. Mr. Fronek suggested adding it in the Park and Open Space Land Acquisition Plan. Mr. Fronek indicated that secondly he knows there is fishing at Lake Cornelia, however, he didn't see it pointed out anywhere in the recreation programs. He stated that it might be something they may want to add because he knows other communities have fishing programs. Mr. Merriam stated that, based on the needs assessment survey, the whole idea of trails and connectivity is very important. He noted that he thinks there should be some kind of provision that states there will be moneys available to at least look at land acquisition or easement acquisition so that they can start to build the system. He commented that it's very difficult for people to get around within Edina. Mr. Keprios commented that on page 12 where it addresses the goals and policies on that subject, the goal is to create connectivity between Edina's individual interior trails and regional trails that connect Edina's parks to neighboring community trails in particularly trails that are part of the greater regional trail system. He stated that he thinks it probably should be added under policies. The policy could state that when the opportunity arises to acquire property to make that happen. Ms. Presthus pointed out that there already is a very similar policy to that on page seven. Mr. Cornejo responded that it doesn't specifically mention trail connections. Mr. Keprios suggested that they state "to acquire easements and property where needed and available to create regional connections". Mr. O'Connell indicated that on page 15 under the "Parkland and Open Space Land Acquisition Plan" where it states: "The goal is to also study the feasibility of acquiring additional park and open space land as more private land may become available for public acquisition", he would like to take out "goal" and feasibility" and have more definite language. He stated that he thinks it should be similar to what is noted on page 7, as well as it would be more consistent. Mr. O'Connell stated that on page 9, "Wildlife Management Plan" under the goal the first paragraph reads fine. However, under the second paragraph he thinks the word "control" should be taken out and be replaced with "manage" because they cannot control animals. Mr. Keprios informed the Park Board that under the "Natural Resource" area they really don't have anything that addresses a mandatory buffer on shoreline. He noted that the Park Department's involvement in water quality has been very minimal. Therefore, he's 2 not sure where that should fall within the comprehensive plan and added that it may somewhat fall between the cracks. Mr. Meyer stated that he thinks as part of the "Walking and Biking Trails Pathways Plan" maybe they should look at somehow incorporating those types of paths and trails from the schools to the parks. He stated that he thinks if more sidewalks were put in then a lot more kids would be willing to walk to school. Mr. Meyer commented that it may be reaching a little bit beyond the scoop but perhaps there could at least be some dialog. Mr. Keprios replied that he is going to ask Wayne Houle, City Engineer, where sidewalks fit within the master plan because he is in charge of the sidewalks. Mr. Meyer indicated that he's not sure what this would fall under but he would like to know how we can build community. He asked if there are things that can be done in the parks to build a sense of community. Mr. Merriam stated that he could envision some kind of signage system that would reflect the identity of Edina. He noted that it wouldn't build community in the sense that people are face to face but it could be something that visually could start to tie things together. Mr-Keprios informed the Park Board that sometime in the near future he would like to see the Park Board change their mission. He noted that he would like to keep it simple and have it state "To create community to people, parks and programs". Mr. Cornejo commented that one of the negative things he has heard is that people don't want multiple family dwellings near the parks because they feel that anyone who lives in anything other than a single family home is not a resident. He explained that as a planner one of the ways to mitigate some of the down side of a dense environment is through public spaces to create the "community" feeling. He noted that for people who don't have a backyard and live within %4 mile of a park along with single family homes the park becomes a way for people to meet their neighbors. Mr. Cornejo stated that they need to find a way to grow gracefully and in a neighborly way. He stated that they need to design facilities that are intended to be shared beyond the immediate neighborhood. Mr. Keprios explained that the philosophy back when the parks were first built was to try to have a park within biking distance so that every kid in Edina would have a park to go to. However, as a result of that they are now scheduling large athletic events everywhere. Therefore, as they continue to progress, a lot of the people who live closest to the parks are seeing the parks as more of a nuisance than a benefit. Therefore, it's not creating community but rather creating a nuisance which is what recently happened with the hockey rink at Todd Park. Mr. Keprios pointed out that these types of issues are going to continue and worsen as times goes on. He stated that policy -wise they are heading down a road that is allowing the people who live closest to the parks dictate what happens in those parks, which is very unfortunate. Mr. Keprios noted that the reason he brings this up is because in the big picture they are now at a crossroads where they need to think hard and serious about how they want to address this issue in the long-term. They need to look at and decide if they want to find a way to put all of the athletic events into one package and pull them out of the neighborhood parks to help eliminate some of this. He stated that otherwise they need to have the mindset of this is what we are going 3 to do and we are going to encourage more associations to schedule more during the day because Edina just doesn't have any more land. Mr. Meyer replied that he thinks there are other things they should do such as planting trees, creating parking lots, etc. where neighbors are going to say they don't want it at their park. He stated that it needs to be made known that these parks are not their backyards but rather a public space for everyone. He noted that they need to create an atmosphere where people will perceive that certain things should be in the parks because they are for everyone. Mr. Cornejo commented that sometimes people say if something is going to be put in their park then they need to have some type of buffer, however, instead of buffers maybe they can try to create a neighborly transition for the residential use near the parks. They need something that will recognize it but yet not have a 12 ft. high fence, such as the freeways do, to buffer the noise. They need to remind the neighborhoods that it's not their property, it is public property. Mr. Keprios pointed out that it's their duty to make things adaptable to change and adjust to the needs. For e.g., tennis is not what it used to be and maybe they need to look at converting some of the tennis courts to skate parks. Ms. Presthus suggested that somewhere they add a statement about being adaptable to change. Ms. Presthus asked Mr. Keprios that he highlight any changes that are made on the next • draft of the comprehensive plan. IV. REVIEW OF PROPOSED CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLAN — Mr. Keprios reviewed with the Park Board the changes they proposed to the Capital Improvement Plan. He informed the Park Board that they did not get any grant money for the Garden Park Master Plan so they are going to have to rely on their own funding. Therefore, he has now added $90,000 for the Garden Park Pathway Plan. Linda Presthus MOVED TO APPROVE THE PROPOSED CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLAN. Ray O'Connell SECONDED THE MOTION. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. V. OTHER Mr. Keprios informed the Park Board that they only received one bid for the Courtney Fields Maintenance Building. He noted that they budgeted $190,000 and the bid came in at $207,000. Therefore, he is recommending that they reject the bids and revisit to try and get more bidders. Meeting adjourned at 7:50 p.m. 4 John Keprios, Director Edina Park & Recreation Department 4801 West 50' Street Edina, MN 55424 Office (952) 826-0430 FAX (952) 826-0385 Jkeprios@ci.edina.mn.us Memo To: All Edina Youth Athletic Associations and Clubs From: John Keprios, Director CC: Ed MacHolda, Donna Tilsner and Edina Park Board Date: April 10, 2007 Re: Athletic Association Insurance As you may recall, the Edina Youth Sports Task Force recommended that the City of Edina consider minimum insurance mandates of youth athletic associations and clubs that use City of Edina's athletic fields and facilities. As you will notice in the attached letter, the Assistant to the City Manager, Ceil Smith, is recommending that the City mandate a minimum of $1,000,000 worth of General Liability insurance. She is also recommending that in the event there are employees of an athletic association, i.e. referees, umpires, instructors, etc., there should also be a requirement to show evidence of Workers' Compensation Insurance coverage. The amount of the Workers' Compensation is determined by the amount of wages paid. At our March 27, 2007, all Presidents meeting, Andy Stotts, President of the Edina Soccer Association, volunteered to coordinate a collaborative effort with other youth athletic associations to leverage the best insurance premiums possible. Thank you Andy for your efforts! As I promised at the all Presidents meeting, it is my intention to have this item on the May 8 Park Board agenda for discussion. I encourage you to first research insurance coverage to meet this new mandate; calculate the amount of additional cost per participant due to this added expense; and how much you may have to increase your registration fees to cover this additional expense. I then encourage you to submit your comments to the Park Board by sending your comments to me in writing either by email or hard copy. My email address is Jkeprios(a)ci.edina.mn.us. Lastly, if your association has strong feelings about this new mandate one way or another, I encourage you to attend the Tuesday, May 8th Park Board meeting, which begins at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers Edina City Hall. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me at 952-826-0430. Many thanks. John Keprios, Director Edina Park & Recreation Department 4801 West 50'h Street • Edina, MN 55424 Office (952) 826-0430 FAX (952) 826-0385 Jkeprios@ci.edina.mn.us Memo To: All Edina Youth Athletic Associations and Clubs From: John Keprios, Director CC: Ed MacHolda, Donna Tilsner and Edina Park Board Date: July 30, 2007 Re: Athletic Association Insurance Mandate. On April 10, 2007, I mailed the enclosed memo to all youth athletic association presidents regarding the proposed mandate for general liability insurance. The matter was brought to the May Park Board meeting for discussion and the matter was tabled due to a lack of feedback one way or another from youth athletic associations. It is my intent to have this item on the August 14, 2007 Park Board agenda for action. The proposal is to mandate the $1 million General Liability coverage; plus, workers compensation for those who have employees, and implement the mandate to be effective January 1, 2008. If January 1, 2008, is problematic for some associations, please let me know and we will make reasonable accommodations. This should be adequate time for associations to plan their budgets and fees to cover the additional costs. If your association has comments about this new mandate one way or another, I encourage you to attend the Tuesday, August 14, 2007 Park Board meeting, which begins at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers Edina City Hall. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me at 952-826-0430. Many thanks. H EDINA PARKS, OPEN SPACE AND NATURAL RESOURSES CHAPTER OF THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN (Draft as of 8/07/2007) GOAL It is the goal of the Edina Park and Recreation Department to do our part in further developing, preserving, and maintaining the City of Edina's parks, recreation programs and resources as a premier and comprehensive park and recreation department in the Twin Cities area. With this goal (preferred output) in mind, the Edina Park and Recreation Department has adopted a new Vision Statement (a vision for a preferred future) and defined our Mission (purpose and outcome).;, VISION S TA TEMENT — "WE CREATE COMMUNITY THR 0 UGH PEOPLE, PARKS & PROGRAMS" The Edina Park and Recreation Department recognizes the importance of establishing a common vision that leads to a preferred future. This common vision positions ourselves to proactively address future trends, meet the needs of a rapidly changing society, and place parks and recreation at the table when critical issues are framed and decisions are made. The Park and Recreation Department's Vision Statement is; "We Create Community through People, Parks and Programs. " In a sense, this visionis a perpetual action plan and will be the cornerstone of future strategic planning efforts. "We" mean the park and recreation professionals whose duties are to preserve the natural environment, enhance safety and protect our valuable resource investments, and provide park and recreation opportunities to Edina residents. "Create" means the active: role of parks and recreation in the task of creating community. "Community" is a sense of belonging, ownership and common purpose that develops among people who live or work together as a social unit. Parks and recreation delivers services through `people,"which includes staff, volunteers and elected officials working together to connect with Edina residents to improve lives. The vision is to mobilize and connect with `people" to solve community problems and provide park and recreation services that meet the community's ever changing needs. In the vision statement, the word `parks" can be interpreted as any park land, open space or facility provided by parks and recreation to meet needs. Parks and open space create a green infrastructure that is essential to Edina's economy, provides relief from urban development, preserves the environment and provides opportunities for recreation through park and recreation facilities. "Programs" are part of the vision statement because they are the recreation services and activities that are designed to produce specific outcomes and benefits for Edina residents. Park and Recreation Department `programs" are an important means of connecting with Edina residents to create a sense of community. MISSION STATEMENT The primary purpose of why the Edina Park and Recreation Department exits is defined in the following Mission Statement. This statement cannot be summarized in one sentence because the purpose or business of the Edina Park and Recreation Department is so diverse. The primary mission of the Edina Park and Recreation Department is to: Strengthen community image and sense ofplace�, Parks, recreation facilities, programs and community events are key factors in strengthening community image and creating sense of place. Protect environmental resources By acquiring, managing and restoring valuable resources as open space, such as creeks, greenways, forests and other' habitat areas, natural resources are protected and; habitat required for the survival of diverse species is preserved. Foster human development Parks and recreation services foster social, intellectual, physical and lj�jomotional development of children, youth and adults. Strengthen safety and security Park and recreation professionals provide safe environments for recreation and design programs and services specifically to reduce criminal activity. Suppod economic development Recreation programs and facilities attract and retain businesses and residents, as well as attract tourists. Parks and recreation provides jobs and generates income for the community and for local businesses. Park maintenance staffs maintain parks and community facilities to protect public investments. Provide recreational experiences Through programmed and self -facilitated recreation, a variety of benefits to individuals and society are achieved. Recreational 2 experiences also are important as an end in themselves for personal enjoyment. Create connections and partnerships with neighboring communities. Park and recreation professionals, volunteers and elected officials work closely with neighboring communities to build community. Increase cultural unity Parks and recreation increases cultural unity through experiences that promote cultural understanding and celeb ,�4 our growing diversity. Promote health and wellness ! f F Participation in recreation improves physical and emotional health. Facilitate community problem -solving Park and recreation profesnals have skills in faeilatation and leadership that can be applied to resolve community problems and issues. €{ The benefits of parks and recreation are endless. As outlined above, the core mission of Edina's Park and Recreation Department is diverse, meaningful and comprehensive. INTRODUCTIONa,i_, t The Edina Park and Recreation Department h�i very comprehensive and continually progressive park system that serves the leisure needs of residents' of all ages and'' abilities. Based on the results of a Community Attitude & Interest Citizen Survey (hereon referred to as the "Needs Assessment Survey") conducted in 2006, 77% of respondents are either very satisfied or somewhat satisfied with the overall value their householdreceives from the City of Edina Parks and ,olt Recreation Department. 11% of respondents indicated "neutral," and 8% said 1"don't know." 88% of respondents indicated that they were either very satisfied 1omewhat satisfied with the number of Edina parks. 93% were either very sate d or somewhat satisfied with the maintenance of the parks. The Needs Assessment Survey was mailed to a random sample of 3,000 households in the City of Edina in September 2006. 865 surveys were completed and returned by the deadline. 91 % of respondents indicated that they had visited an Edina park during the past year. 97% rated the level of maintenance as either excellent or good. The facilities used by the highest percentage of respondent households were Centennial Lakes Park, Edinborough Park, Braemar Golf Course Bredesen Park walking or biking trail, and the Edina Aquatic Center. Edina residents value and are very passionate about their park lands, facilities and programs and residents are always willing to volunteer to serve the public to provide the best park and recreation programs, services and facilities. Edina's volunteers are a critical and extremely valuable resource in the delivery of park and recreation programs and services. The Edina Park and Recreation Department relies heavily on Edina's volunteers to provide a comprehensive and quality recreation program. As Edina plans for the next 20 years, the plan is to be mindful of energy efficiencies. In addition, our focus will also be mindful of the preservation of natural resources and, where appropriate, restoration of natural resources to create an environment that promotes sustainable natural resources. There is a strong interest among residents and staff to improve water quality. The Edina Park and Recreation Department will be working closely with the Edina Engineering Department to ensure compliance with the est bli shed "Surface Water Quality Plan." The Edina Park and Recreation Dep 4, ent will also continue to work closely with the Nine Mile Watershed D ;�ic the Minnehaha Watershed District and Edina Engineering Department to coorinate and support future efforts to create, protect and preserve wetlan eas and restoration projects that improve shoreline stabilization, environmen lly sound shoreline buffer zones and other water quality best practices projects. 'di 11JOHII'l This Comprehensive Pl � so addresses th munity's strong desire to create more greenways to tie par componen ether to form a more cohesive park environment. The Ne ste rent Surve esus repeatedly show the community's strong support d for more walkt�g and biking trails throughout the park system. With the cooperation and collaboration with neighboring communities and ThreeRivers Park District, the goal is to create north/south and east/west corridor bike trails that connect with neighboring communities and ultimately the greater regional trail system. The plan will be to further pursue the development of thine Mile Trail," which is the east/west ,corridor across Edina from Richfie > o Minnetonka. The plan will also be to work with the Bike Edina Task Force, Three Rivers Park District and cities to the north and south,to plan and develop a north/south corridor that connects with the eater regiona ail system as called out in the 2030 Regional Parks Policy Plan. i. oils. Needs Assessient Survey results also indicate resident's strong desire to support the maintenance of parks. Residents recognize the value and importance of maintaining existing park lands and infrastructure. As we develop more infrastructurps within the park system, we will be mindful of the importance of planning foto adequate resources to maintain parks at a level that meets or exceeds residents' expectations. With a growing trend of childhood obesity, the Park and Recreation Department will be mindful and responsive to creating and administering programs, facilities and services that address that important issue. The City Council recently adopted a resolution to support a Minnesota State initiative called "Get Fit" in an effort to heighten awareness of the growing epidemic of childhood obesity and show a commitment to do our part to address the issue. With the help of volunteers, new 4 and innovative programs and services will be sought to combat this growing trend. As mentioned in the Vision Statement above, the community will continue to have ever changing needs. It will be the Park and Recreation Department's challenge to adapt to these inevitable ever changing needs through facilities, programs and services and be mindful of existing facilities, programs and services offered in nearby surrounding communities so as not to create duplication. Trends Influencin- the Planninz Process There are a number of trends listed below that wiff nfluence the park and recreation planning process of the future. Ih this post industrial age of rapid change, constant monitoring will be required to develop a keen awareness of the global and local trends that are shaping our world and community. We will need to continually provide sensitive and appropriate responses to changes in social, demographic, technological, economic, political and environmental trends. The magnitude of these changes will demand flexibility`in planning practices to appropriately respond to rapidly changing needs. Demo,-raphic Trends: Although Edina's overall population -is expected to increase only a modest 7.9% over the next 25 years, residents aged 65 years and older are expected to increase by over 100% from 2005 to 2030. The projected increase in population of those under the age of 20 by the year 2050 is expected to be only 1.3%, ages 21-44 are expected to decrease by 2% and ages 45-64 will increase 5.4%. Due to the expected 102.5% increase in the 65+ age group by the year 2030, that will significantly impact the need for more recreational services for that age group. Trends, suggest that the 65+ age group will live more active lifestyles than previous senior population generations. Therefore, there will be an increased demand for even more trails and recreational opportunities for that age bracket. There will be a greater emphasis on mobility by non -vehicular transportation for, that age bracket, including walking and biking. IDENTIFIED NATION-WIDE TRENDS According to the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) and the American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration, the following are emerging trends that are evident in many communities across the country. NRPA suggests that the implications of these trends on public parks and recreation will be profound, affecting every facet of systems planning and the delivery of services. The following is an abbreviated list of identified national trends some of which maybe evident in Edina. For those trends that do affect Edina, those trends will likely have an effect on the future planning and delivery of parks and recreation services in Edina. 5 Environmental Trends: • Disappearing resources — significant open spaces and natural habitats, original landscapes, wetlands and natural drainages, ancient forests, water and energy resources, remnant landscapes. I • Reduction of pollution and waste — recycling. • Environmentally sensitive lifestyles — low impact, non-consumptive use (walking, bicycling) and increased aesthetic appreciation. • More environmentally sound practices and habits — reduced and modified use of pesticides and herbicides. • NIMBY and no growth attitudes — "not in my back yard" resistance to change, growth, development. • Natural areas management — maintaining and reclaiming natural values and open spaces. • The Greenhouse effect — may, disrupt some regional economies within 10-20 years. • Federal water quality mandates — natural drainage systems become more important as urban waterwas and wetlands are protected. Social Trends: • Increased crime and violence — domestic violence, gangs, violence in schools and other public places,, drugs, vandalism, racial tension. • Increased numbers of children at risk — child abuse, neglect teen pregnancies, suicides, family instability, loneliness, alienation, rebelliousness, substance, abuse. • Change-related stress — economic, social and technological change continues in 21st Century, at rates creating stress. People" empowerment — opportunities for building community and social 1jj* bonding, neighborhood watch, community policing. • Citizen participation — involvement of "stakeholders" in public planning �� and decision-making; planning with, not for people. • Social service networking — organizing community resources to attack 111ij, complex social problems. • Increasingconcerns for personal and family safety. • Major public health issue — continuing AIDS epidemic, STDs, etc. • Increased importance of wellness activities. • Desire to preserve and maintain cultural heritages. • Volunteerism — making more effective and efficient use of volunteers. Economic Trends: • Reduced discretionary or leisure spending. • Increasing public costs — associated with health, social services, environmental protection and clean-up, aging infrastructure. • • Increasing labor and energy costs — consuming higher percent of budgets. • Tax limitation measures — reduction in and/or caps on revenue traditionally used to support public programs (education, recreation, etc.). • Increase in national poverty rate. • Leisure services provided by multiple providers —private and non private sectors. • More partnerships —doing more with less in conjunction with others. • Recognition of economic value of parks, open spaces, and amenity in infrastructure. Technological Trends: • Technological change — rapid pace W& c ntinue. • Easing of the effects of aging. • Advances in information technology - making products, services and information more accessible and targeted. • Increased contact with computers. • Information technology will blur distinction between work and home. • Increased media maladies — information overload, privacy, objectionable material, distorted reality. • More public meetings aired on public/access cable television — more education on issues and services. • Greater energy costs shaping technology — smaller cars and multi -modal transportation systems, more efficient buildings. Trends in Urban Patterns: • Increased urban sprawl —located primarily along major transportation corridors and mass transit routes. 1 IRu,Greater "in -file' development— lands considered marginal will be pgraded for, new development, increasing density in the urban core. • Revitalizing and retrofitting downtowns, industrial plants and commercial centers - amenities included to make them more marketable mixed use development. • Increasing importance of amenities — recognized as essential for '= maintaining competitiveness. • Historic preservation — valuing heritage resources as treasures. • Continued gentrification — caused by increasing land values in central city areas. • Affordable housing — community mandates and improved technology. • Increased traffic congestion —placing more emphasis on mass transit and transportation options using existing open space. • More political pressure for urban growth management — balancing sustainable future. Growth of partnerships —public and private partnering to address complex urban needs. 7 Implication of Trends on Parks. Recreation. Open Space, and Greenwa Plannin NRPA suggests that the above listed trends will have a significant impact on the planning and delivery of parks and recreation programs, facilities and services. NRPA suggests that the following defines some of these impacts: • Greater focus on benefits -driven needs assessments which link planning decisions more directly to community values and goals. • Greater emphasis on comprehensive open space planning and preservation, including broader definitions of open space and green space. rfi • More green way planning along urbanwaterways' and other corridors, supporting flood plain management, fish and wildlife habitat protection, water quality enhancement, off-street bikeways; and pathways, aesthetic amenities and passive recreation. • More emphasis on bio -filtration of storm water run-off using natural drainage systems. • More protective measures for wetlands,, waterways and uplands in natural resource planning. • Increasing importance of recreation and open space contributing to more walkable, livable and sustainable communities. • Merging of recreation, open space and transportation goals, especially multi -modal systems. • More stakeholder involvement, as in, adopt -a park projects, park stewardship committees, friends -of -the park groups, park watch and other forms of community volunteering. • The legitimization of parks and open spaces as part of the urban land use planning and development, process. �, • Greenspaces contributing to downtown and neighborhood revitalization. • More collaboration between parks and schools through joint acquisition, developmentand use of lands, and joint construction and use of facilities. • Prevention recreation — recreation, parks and open spaces as antidote for social problems. 111Jpint use of utilities for linear connectors, pathways and bikeways. •ollaboration among providers —partnering and cooperation between public, private and nonprofit sectors in leisure delivery, especially social service agencies. • Pressure to increase capacity and infrastructure of existing parks and facilities; concern for adequate maintenance. Park, Recreation, Open Space and Greenway Classification In 1995, the National Recreation and Park Association and the Academy of Park and Recreation Administration revised the suggested classifications for parks, recreation areas and open spaces. The key changes were the inclusion of park- school sites, athletic fields, private park/recreation facility, natural resource area/preserve and greenway classifications. This new classification system states that there are essentially two types of park and recreation land: 1. Publicly owned land. 2. Privately owned land that contributes to the public's park and recreation system. Examples of privately owned land that contribute to the public's park and recreation system would include: • Edina Country Club I� 1°� • Interlachen Country Club} I • Church owned properties1�� , • Southdale YMCA • The meadows in White Oaks neigh41alo 4� • Power line easements • Other miscellaneouely owned va s ace These privately owned spaces an� ' _ies provide the public with valued park and recreation services and benefits. � �rp The National Park and Recreation Association, periodically publishes "Park and Open Space. Standards and Guidel Ops" for municipal park and recreation agencies to assist in comprehensive planning. The N.R.P.A. suggests that the "national standards" be used only as albenchmark guideline because each ji ''community has it$ qWn unique profile in regards to demographics, total acreage, terrain, climate and a host of other affecting factors. Nonetheless, Edina currently exceeds the'national st guideline for acres per 1,000 residents. The; N.R.P.A. suggests amational standards guideline of 25 acres per 1,000 re`si ts. This standard would include all local, County, and State-owned prop !within & community. Edina has no county, state or federal parklands. The City's 1,565.81 total park and open space acreage computes to 333.03 acres per 1,000 residents (based on the 2000 census population of 47,425). The N.R.P.A. also suggests that each community should devote 10% of the total area of a city to park and open space. Edina has a total of 10,240 acres of which 1,565.81 acres are park and open space. Thus, 15.3% of Edina's land area is currently devoted to park and open apace. REGIONAL PARKS & 2030 REGIONAL PARKS POLICY PLAN There are currently no county, state or federal park lands in Edina. All 1,565.81 acres ofpark land and open space are owned and maintained by the City of Edina. There are however 9 regional public parks and facilities in the Twin Cities area that serve Edina residents. For example, Three Rivers Park District owns and maintains regional parks, such as Bryant Lake Regional Park in Eden Prairie, Hyland Lake Park Reserve in Bloomington, Glen Lake Golf and Practice Center in Minnetonka, and 21 other regional parks within the Three Rivers Park District. These regional parks offer a variety of recreation opportunities, some of which are not available in Edina but are within a reasonable driving distance. For example, Three Rivers Park District parks offer snowmobiling, horseback riding, boating, archery, camping, canoeing, downhill skiing, nature centers and historic farm facilities. As we plan for development of future park facilities, it will be important to be mindful of existing public park and recreation facilities throughout the Twin Cities area so 4�vpot to unnecessarily duplicate services. To the north, the Minneapolis Park Board offers miles oftrails for walking, running and biking around its chain lakes and the Grand Round trail system. As stated later in this Comprehensive Plan Chapter, it is the goal to make trail connections to give Edina residents access to the Minneapolis Park Board's Grand Round trail system and the Three Rivers Park District's Southwest Regional LRT Trail. The 2030 Regional Parks Policy Plan adopted by the Metropolitan Council in June 2005 is the metropolitan system plan for regional recreatiomopen space. The 2030 Regional Parks Policy Plan does not involve acquisition or development of any land for park purposes in Edina with the exception of the proposed development of two regional trails: 1. South Hennepin Regional Trail -West — This is a proposed regional trail that would follow an existing north -south existing railroad grade owned by Canadian Pacific Railroad in the City of Edina. It would connect to Hyland -Bush -Anderson Park Reserve on the south and the Hennepin Southwest LRT Regional Trail north of the Edina city limits. The railroads are stillinactive use so planning for the conversion to a regional trail is on hold pending a change in status of the railroad operations. The proposed trail alignment as shown in Figure 2 is the preferred route; however, the Bike Edina Task Force of volunteers who are appointed by the City Council is studying alternative appropriate north/south connections and routes. 2. Edina -Richfield Regional Trail Search Area — This is a proposed regional trail that would be an east -west connecting trail in Edina. The City of Edina has been working closely with Three Rivers Park District and others to identify the most appropriate alignment of this east -west regional corridor. The general alignment is shown in Figure 2. Other than the two proposed regional trails mentioned above, there is no plan within the 2030 Regional Parks Policy Plan that involves any property in Edina. 10 NATURAL RESOURCE AREAS The National Recreation and Park Association defines Natural Resource Areas as lands set aside for preservation of significant natural resources, remnant landscapes, open space, and visual aesthetics/buffering. These lands consist of: • Individual sites exhibiting natural resources. • Land that is unsuitable for development but offer natural resource potential. (Examples include parcels with steep slopes, and natural vegetation, drainage -ways and ravines, surface water management areas (man-made pond areas, and utility easements), • Protected lands, such as wetlands/lowland isAorelines along waterways, lakes, and ponds.' CURRENT INVENTORY All open space areas were inventoried and categorized llows: (Quadrants were determined by the )yo dividing highwa dina: Highway 62 and Highway 100). '11111 `Tt NORTHWEST QUADRANT ��tT� ACRE ��i , Nine Mile Creek Right of Way � � 148.15 Lincoln Drive Floodplain 17.16 Division Street Storm Watpr Drainage 18.14 Moore Property (Melody Lake), 4.96 Normandale Rd. (NW Benton & Hwy 100) 2.14 • Garden Park Addition 6.70 Glenbrae &shire'' � 4.30 Krahl Hill 7.75 Pine Grove Rd. (S and E of end) 4.39 ORT AST1QU 'DRA . Litter& Lynn Avenue' .46 W. 41" Street and Lynn Avenue 3.10 Minnehaha Creek Right of Way 22.88 Townes Road 1.00 QUADRANT thUTHWEST e Mile Creek Right of Way 9.75 Cahill School Backlot 11.05 NES of High School & S of Crosstown 37.29 Dewey Hill Ponds 48.00 Limerick Dr. (dead end W of RR) 3.90 SOUTHEAST QUADRANT Bristol & Mavelle 1.01 • TOTAL OPEN SPACE ACRES 352.13 11 The following are individual park acreage totals: MINI PARK 11 PARKS — 20.99 ACRES A Mini park is characterized by a size of approximately 2 acres or less and is designed to serve primarily the needs of pre-school age children, although it may provide facilities designed to serve the recreation needs of other age groups. Edina's Mini -Parks typically do not have scheduled athletic facilities. Mini parks are typically used to address limited or isolated recreational needs. Service Area - t/4 Square Mile. Park AddressSize e' t> Ouadrant Birchcrest 6016 Hansen Rd. 61 Acres NW Browndale 4510 Browndale Ave.Acre NE Chowen 5700 Chowen Ave. re NE Kojetin 4201 W. 44th Street 'jp ' 2.6 s NE Lake Edina 4400 Parklawn Av 3.10 A SE McGuire W. 69th & McGu"" '' 2.00 Acre SW Melody Lake 5501 Melody Lake Dr�'i 4.18 Acres '' NW Sherwood Sherwood Rd. & Edenmo4 2.00 Acres NW St. Johns W. 60th & St.Johns Ave. 94 Acre NE Tingdale W. 59th & Tingdale Ave. .67 Acre NW York Park 5448 York Ave. ., Oi,Acres NE NEIGHBORHOOD PARK 14 a-11 PARKS - 78.88 ACRES Neighborhood parks are designed to serve primarily the needs of children six to fourteen years of age'. Tennis courts, softball diamonds, basketball and ice skating facilities are commonly provided in neighborhood parks. Some of Edina's neighborhood parks have one or more scheduled athletic facilities, such as outdoor hockey rinks and/or fields for soccer, football, baseball and softball. Neighborhood parks typically range in size from approximately two acres to twenty acres. Service a - 1 Square Mile. Park Address 11 Size Quadrant Alden 6750 Belmore Lane 5.12 Acres NW Arden 5230 Minnehaha Blvd. 17.75 Acres NE Cornelia Scho 7124 Cornelia Drive 10.75 Acres SE Countryside 6240 Tracy Ave. 9.01 Acres NW Fox Meadow Blake Rd. & Fox Meadow Ln. 3.84 Acres NW Heights 5520 W. 66th Street 4.00 Acres SW Normandale 6501 Warren Ave. 10.06 Acres SW Strachauer 6200 Beard Ave. 4.50 Acres NE Utley 50th & Wooddale Ave. 5.73 Acres NE Wooddale W. 50th & Wooddale Ave. 4.70 Acres NE Yorktown W. 73rd & York Ave. 3.42 Acres SE 12 COMMUNITY PLAYFIELDS 9 PARKS - 287.65 ACRES Community playfields typically range in size from approximately 20 to 60 acres. These parks are designed to provide facilities for diverse recreational activities for young people and adults, although a section is also typically set aside for smaller neighborhood children. All of Edina's Community Playfields have one or more scheduled athletic facilities, such as outdoor hockey rinks and fields for soccer, football, baseball and softball. Service area - 9-16 square miles. Park Address Size Quadrant Creek Valley W.W. 64 t& Gleason Road 10.04 Acres NW Garden 5520 Hansen Road: 18.74 Acres NW Highlands 5200 Doncaster Way ,� 44.05 Acres NW Lewis Dewey Hill & Cahill Ro��F F 21.04 Acres SW Pamela 5900 Park Place j ' a� 62.00 Acres NE Todd 4429 Vandervork 33.97 Acres NW Van Valkenburg 4935 Lincoln Dri ° 41.76 Acres NW Walnut Ridge 5801 Londonderry Ro West 50th & Browndale �1� 44.24 Acres NW Weber 4115 Grimes Ave. 11.85 Acres,j NE NE COMMUNITY PARKS����°� Via;,, 5 PARKS - 554.20 ACRES The community park is usually a large park of more 4h 100 acres, or a smaller park containing special comm" nity facilities. Park Address , uadrant Braemar SW Corner of Edir�5,6 06 00 Acres SW �1 Centennial Lake 111j 7495 France Avenu 25.00 Acres SE Kenneth Rosland ij4300 West 66th Street `'+ 22.05 Acres SE Edinborough '° 7700 York Avenue South 2.00 Acres SE G artdview Square g� _ 5280 Grandview Square 5.15 Acres NW t SPECIAL PURPO 1E PARKS 111111" 7 PARKS - 271.96 ACRES The special purpose pa��rovides a single or specific form of recreation. Service Area City Wide. Park ,address Size Quadrant Arneson Acres 1111117471 West 70th street 15.00 Acres SE Bredesen Vernon Ave. & Olinger Blvd. 206.00 Acres NW Richards Golf Course 7640 Parklawn Ave. 39.65 Acres SE Southdale Gateway SE Corner of Edina 9.97 Acres SE Tupa 4918 Eden Avenue 1.00 Acre NE Williams West 50th & Browndale .34 Acre NE Senior Citizen Center 5280 Grandview Square 18,000 Sq.Ft. NE 13 N` INVENTORY SUMMARY OPEN SPACE (19 areas) MINI PARKS (12) NEIGHBORHOOD PARKS (10) COMMUNITY PLAYFIELDS (10) COMMUNITY PARKS (5) SPECIAL PURPOSE PARKS (7) TOTAL OPEN SPACE & PARKLANDS OTHER MAINTAINED GRASS AREAS PLAZAS, TRIANGLES AND CIRCLES ACRES 352.13 24.99 74.88 287.65 554.20 271.96 1;565.81 5.00 STORM WATER & EACE & PARKLANDS DRAINAGEJil1� �' 1,565.81 O TOTAL PARKS, OPEN SPACE & OTHER j 1,630.81 PARKLAND ACREAGE The following are parkland acreage totals per park classificatic 1 ,,�`# OF TOTAL COMPONENT CHARACTER SVC AREA PARKS ACREAGE Mini -Park a � ss than res n %4 sq.mi.;. 12 24.99 Neighborhood Park Se ¢i,ldr __!_�S eeq.mi. 10 74.88 CommKi Serve recred 1 9-16 sq.mi. 9 287.65 Playf needs of your jIjj,, peopleadults Community Large par in 4-16 sq.mi. 5 554.20 Park cess 100 acres. pre-school -ad active and passive recreational pursuits Special Purpose Provides a special City Wide 7 271.96 Park form of recreation Total Parkland Acreage 40 1,213.68 14 GOALS AND POLICIES The following goals and policies are intended to serve as a guide for future decisions pertaining to Edina's park and recreation areas for the next twenty years. These goals reflect the results of the Community Attitude and Interest Survey conducted in 2006; however, the goals are not intended to appear in order of priority. These goals also reflect the input from the community through a series of Comprehensive Plan Open House community input meetings, plus recommendations from the Edina Park Board and the Planning Commission's Comprehensive Plan Task Force. PARK LAND AND OPEN SPACE PLAN BACKGROUND The City of Edina is basically 100% developed. Therefore, the City of Edina is no longer in a land acquisition seeking mode for the development of additional park lands. The intent is to retain all of the currently publicly owned park land and consider any additional property that may be offered in the future as potential additional park property. For example, the Grandview Square development resulted in a wonderful one -acre park nestled in the center of a mixed developed site that includes offices, condominiums, library and senior center. Other successful mixed-use developments have been Centennial Lakes Park and Edinborough Parr As Edina enters into future redevelopment projecis 'that result in more population density (both commercial and residential), there will be a demand for additional park land, open space and additional recreational opportunities to serve that growing population: These newly created park lands and open spaces should ideally be connected via greenway to other existing parks and trails to create connections throughout the park system. More population density will demand more park land and open space. As these opportunities surface in the future, each property should be studied on a case by case basist Specific additional park land, open space and recreational opportunities will have to be adessed on a case by case basis depending on whether the increase in population density is commercial and/or residential. GOA ontmueUl,�ft,,�vote a minimum of 15 ma s land area to parkland and open ace in the C � p p P future. As commercial and residential pulation density increases due to redevelopment, the goal is to create additional park t, and andlor open space as needed on a case by case basis. The goal is to retain, maintain, prdtect and preserve all of Edina's park and open space property currently owned by the City of Edina. The goal is to also study the feasibility of acquiring additional park and open' space land as more private land may become available for public acquisition. POLICIES 1. It shall be the policy of the City of Edina to not sell any park and/or open space property currently owned by the City of Edina. An exception to this policy might include a property exchange for land of equal or greater value that is determined to be in the best interest of the community. 15 2. It shall be the policy of the City of Edina to study the feasibility of additional park and open space property within the City limits as it may come available for public ownership. 3. It shall be the policy of the City of Edina to study the feasibility of acquiring or leasing additional property outside the City limits not greater than a five mile radius of the City limits for athletic field purposes. 4. It shall be the policy of the City of Edina to study the feasibility of partnering with surrounding communities to gain priority access to additional property within five miles of the City limits for athletic field purposes. S. As population density increases (commercial and/or residential), the City of Edina will secure additional property as needed for park land and/or open space to serve that population. Every effort will be made to create additional trails and greenways to connect these new park lands and open spaces tog existing trails, greenways and other 6. existingparks.1�� When seeking additional park land andlor;d n pace to accommodate increased population density, the City of Edina shall explore and consider all opportunities and options available to acquire additional park land andlor open space.<ior example, the City will entertain the options of easements, joint uses, purchases, partnerships, leases and donations to acquire and develop additional park lands andlor open space. 7. The City of Edina will consider' purchase of additional potential park and/or open space acreage if and when future opportunities arise, however, each opportunity will be judged on its individual merit and value to the total Edina Park Systems. Special consideration will be given to parcels which are currently owned by a public or quasi -public entity other than the Cit or privatJ owned, and currently serve in a open space or Hina, parkland capac 8. 3�itil When eonsiep.ng land dedication or cash 'n lieu of land in the future, the City of Edina will strongly consider "the Platting Ordin a Guidelines", which applies to Edina Ordinance No.810. More commonly know 'Edina's Park Developers Fund, this is not anticipated to be a significant source o funding in the future for park development, acquisition or renovation simply because Edina is essentially fully developed. NATURAL.. RESOURCES CONSERVATION AND BACKGROUND ��` Over the past decade, resi ents of the Twin Cities area and nation-wide have shown an increased interest in the preservation and restoration of open space and unique natural areas. Consistent with national trends, Edina residents have voiced a strong interest in the protection and restoration of Edina's natural resources. The Community Attitude and Interest Survey results show that 66% of Edina residents have a need/desire for natural areas and wildlife habitats compared to 48% which is the national benchmark response for that need/desire. Edina residents feel strongly about natural resources, natural areas and their protection and (where appropriate) restoration. The need/desire for 16 natural areas and wildlife habitat was only second to the highest need/desire, which was walking and biking trails at 86%. Third place was the need for golf courses (49%) and fourth was playground equipment at 45%. The City of Edina's parks are designed to protect and preserve natural settings while at the same time satisfy the public demand for recreation opportunities. To accomplish both, a Natural Resources Conservation and Management Plan is needed to protect and preserve Edina's natural resources. A scientifically -based Natural Resources Conservation and Management Plan may also be needed as a means of protecting the health and safety of the public. The City of Edina owns over 1,565 acres of park land and open space areas and the City is essentially 100% developed. Therefore, in establishing goals for Edina's natural resources the primary focus is on establishing restoration and preservationmanagement practices, as opposed to identifying areas appropriate for future main transportn atio,systems and utility infrastructure. Those decisions have already been implemented. Open space areas owned by the City of Edina are intended to remain protected and preserved from any future developmen r Therefore, the focus will be to determine what level of management and res` ation is desired for Edina's natural resources. �1�ai, GOAL ����� , The goal is to establish a scientifically -based Natural Resources: 9i nservation and Management Plan to identify; restore and/or protect natural resources and pati W- dlife habitat. The primary reason to restore and/or protect natural resources is to sustain their ecological integrity and functions and protect the health and safety of the public. Natural resource areas shall include prairies, woods and wetlands. The Water Resources Management Plan is addressed under the Water Resources segti nj,?f this Comprehensive n. The goal is to also identify a master landscape plantings plan for all Edina parks, which is the final phase of park development that has yet to be completed. POLICIES 1. A rt rce inventory assessment must first be conducted to identify Edina's prairies, woods ` wetlands and produce a landscape comprehensive resource map. A woodland survey, reirce assessment and production of a landscape comprehensive resource map should be conducted to assess ecological functions. This survey and resource assessment is intended to identify rare plant and animal species, and exotic non-native plant species assessment. The assessment can also include other important information such as soil types, existing infrastructures, and areas of significant historical and cultural values. 2. Once a resource inventory assessment is completed, a Natural Resources Conservation and Management Plan will be established. At that time, natural resource management policies will be proposed and adopted. For example, exotic or invasive plants may be controlled to protect native habitats for the health and safety of the public. 3. The plan is to also identify what and where additional landscape plantings are desired for each park. This master plan of landscaping would be addressed on an annual basis for many years to come. 17 4. Edina will continue to carry out all Minnesota state mandates for shade tree disease control and noxious weed control. 5. Staff will work closely with any future Environmental Commission that may be established by the City Council to embrace and utilize volunteer service that provides valuable resident input and advice on natural resource conversation and management plans. 6. State and Federal grant funding will be sought to assist with financing the resource inventory process. 7. It shall be the policy of the City of Edina to not sell any park and/or open space property currently owned by the City of Edina. An except to this policy might include a property exchange for land of equal or great _ Clue that is determined to be in the best interest of the community. WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT PL BACKGROUND �'`��� Edina is home to a variety of wildlife, some of which makke Bina their home ye ound and other wildlife that migrate in and out of ina. Wildlife ii a often than not viewed by residents as an asset to community and a r of nature fo k users to view and enjoy. In some cases, wildlife poses a threat to publ d in some cases wildlife may be considered a nuisance to park users and traffic. In managing wildlife, the focus is to manage habitat for wildl OCd, when necessary, target specific wildlife species for removal. The Natural Resources `Conservation and Management Plan will help identify any rare animals that may require additional attention to provide better o, habitat protection. The Natural Resources Management Plan will identify specific plants for wildlife needs. The Wildlife¢Management d91nes an appropriate population target and management process appy ved by st to an of eral government agencies. ➢��� GOAL .'1111h Theoal is to maintain existin ildlif a ctuaries and create new ones where appropriate to g ea protect significants l,pnt comm �ies and associated wildlife from the impacts of human activity. The goal is to manage=10d bird populations that are considered to be a threat to public health or safety; or conhazardous to the environment and/or infrastructure; or create an unacceptable public nuisance that could result in financial or social hardship if not controlled. The goal is to continue to improve shoreline fishing opportunities for the public. POLICIES 1. The City of Edina will continue to work with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources to maintain a healthy herd of 40 to 60 deer (or as otherwise directed by the Minnesota DNR) within the City of Edina. Professional contractors or trained City staff will be used to assist with deer control and the City will continue to support aerial deer • count surveys during the winter months to assess the size of the City's deer herd. 2. The City of Edina plans to continue to control geese populations in targeted park settings where their presence can create a threat to public health and/or an unacceptable public nuisance. Being a federally protected migratory waterfowl, geese are difficult to control in an urban setting. The City will continue to use a dog as a means of forcing geese off of golf courses. The City will also continue to contract a professional contractor to round -up geese throughout targeted areas in the city during the goose molting season. 3. The City of Edina will continue to control other animal species (especially beaver) that are considered harmful to the environment, the general public and/or the watershed. Beaver can disrupt the flow of storm water; cause floloding, and need to be removed. 4. The City of Edina will continue to work clos with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Fisheries Division to a ce shoreline fishing opportunities for the public, which includes stocking of game$ nprovng habitat and water quality for game fish, offering Minnesota DNR shoreline fishing programs and suppging educational opportunities for the public to learn more about fishing. 'V WALKING AND BIKING TRAILS PATHWAYS PLAN BACKGROUND • The 2006 Community Attitude and Interest Citizen Survey clearly showed that the most important amenity requested by residents is walkingibiking trails. One question in the survey asked; "Which Parks and Recreation Services Do You Think Should Receive the Most Attention from City of Edina Officials Over e Next TWO Years?" The results were: 54% Maintenance of Edina park 53% Number of walking/biking trail 16% Number of nature conservation A IV 14% The City youth programs 13% Number of Edina parks 12% Quality of outdoor athletic fields 9% Quality of indoor: athletic fields 8% Quality of outdoor swimming pools 8% Availability of info about Edina programs/fac. 8% Quality of programs/facilities for adults age 55+ 6% The City adult programs 6% Fees charged for recreation programs Residents were also asked to choose their top three choices that they are most willing to fund with additional tax dollars; and the results were: 66% develop walking and biking trails 42% develop a new indoor recreation center 19 21% develop outdoor athletic fields for sports 21 % aggressively remove buckthorn from city parks 19% develop new indoor sports facility for games, etc. 17% develop a new outdoor dog exercise park 13% develop new outdoor artificial hockey rink 5% other The survey also asked for reasons that residents would use walking and biking trails in the City of Edina. The results were: 84% for exercise and fitness 84% for enjoying outdoors/nature 25% for transportation l 7% would not use trails The survey results clearly indicate that residents desire and support more p ail opportunities in their local park to use for fitness and enjoyingnature and t out of doors so an for transportation purposes. Even though transportation is the least' ortant reason Ssidents desire more walking/biking trails, the City is workin4y with Three s Park District to create regional trails to create connections to nei �ng communityt 1p tems that are subsequently connected to the greater regio trail syste e Three Rivers Park District m"Attains the Southwest Regional LRT Trai& This is a popular 27 - mile trail that consists of two corridors between Hopkins and Victoria and between Hopkins and Chanhassen. With g ees of five percent or less, the 10 foot wide crushed limestone trail is ideal for biking, walking oto running. The trail is two-way and includes wooden bridges and several road crossings. The corridors were'aequired by the Hennepin County Regional Railroad Authority (HCRRA) for future light rail transit use. A cooperative agreement between HCRRA and Three Rivers Park District allows the corridors to be used for interim recreational purposes. As stated below, it is our goal to find strategic trail connections for Edina residents to have access to this popular regional trail, which will require a connection on the north side of Edina. The long-range plan is to have this trail also make connection with Bloomington and/or Eden Prairie in the future to complete a north/south corridor. It is also recognized that children need safe trails/sidewalks to walk and bike to schools. Therefore, where trails are needed within parks to create safe passage for youth to walk and bike to schools, those trails will take high priority. The greater issue of safe sidewalks for kids to get to schools is addressed in the Transportation Plan Chapter of the Comprehensive Plan. GOAL The goal is to develop additional walkingibiking trails within each of Edina's parks wherever it is appropriate and desired and maintain existing trails at a level that meets or exceeds residents' expectations. 20 The goal is to create connectivity between Edina's individual interior trails and regional trails that connect Edina's parks to neighboring community trails and particularly trails that are part of the greater regional trail system. POLICIES 1. With extensive input from residents, each park will be reviewed for potential development of new walking/biking trails within the park. 2. The Edina Bike Taskforce will work with professional consultants to identify a new bike pathway master plan for the City of Edina. The goal is to identify the best routes for connecting existing and future internal park trail systems, 1 as identify the most appropriate routes for regional trails that will connect to n6ghbo ing community trails. 3. The City of Edina will continue to work closely with Three Rivers Park District and neighboring communities to develop a comprehensi e trail system that connects to the greater regional trail system. 4. The City of Edina will acquire easements and purchase propero 1 here needed and available to develop future greenways that connect Edina's parks and' connect to neighboring community trails and ultimately the greater regional trail system, such as the Southwest LRT and the Minneapolis Grand Round. S. It shall be the policy of the City'oEdina to not sell any park and/or op`i'ne space property currently owned by the Ccty of Edina. An exception to this policy might include a property exchange for land of equal or greater value that is determined to be in the best interest of the community. x 6. Parking needs and feasibility will be studied as part, of the development of a comprehensive trail system. 7. New additional, nteiiial park walking/biking trails will be added to the park system as funding becomes available under the capilo improvement plan. 8. Maintain existing trails on a regular basis t61 eep them safe and user friendly. aappgg m� ���, �i iR}99ppgga� � �l PARK I iNTENANCE AND AGING INFRASTRUCTURE RENOVATION AND REPLACEMENT PLAN k. BACKGROUND The Community Attitude and Interest Survey clearly showed that the most important service that residents think that City of Edina"officials should give most attention to is "Maintenance of Edina Parks." 77% of respondents are either very satisfied or somewhat satisfied with the overall value their household receives from the parks and recreation services in Edina. The national benchmark average is 57% that are either very satisfied or somewhat satisfied. Even with those high marks, residents recognize the importance of maintaining existing infrastructure to maintain the value of recreation services. Maintaining parks was the most important tax supported function even over the second most important expenditure, the development of new walking/biking trails (54% vs. 53%). Of the 26 different parks and recreation facilities to choose from, survey respondents rated playground equipment as the fourth most important recreation facility needed/desired (24%). The top three were: 1. Walking and biking trails (64%). 2. Natural areas and wildlife habitats (30%). 21 3. 18 and 9 hold golf courses (27%). Resources to maintain park lands and facilities will be an ongoing challenge as facilities continue to age and will require either renovation or replacement. There are currently 12 of the 27 park buildings maintained by the Edina Park Maintenance Department that are between 25 and 100 years old or more. 1. Arden Park Shelter Building 2. Bredesen Park Comfort Station 3. Cahill School Historical BuildingEj 4. Countryside Park Shelter Building 5. Creek Valley Park Shelter Building 6. Grange Hall Historical Building 7. Highlands Park Shelter Building 8. Lewis Park Shelter Building, 9. Normandale Park Shelter Building 10. Pamela Park Shelter Building1��'+ 11. Strachauer Park Shelter Building 12. Utley Park Comfort Station t The two historical buildings at Tupa Par�are maintained an ed as historically and culturally significant buildings. The other ten aged buildings are approach pend of their life span and will be in need of either major renovation or total replacement wit a next 20 years. In determining renovation vs Lement, each building's function deeds to be analyzed as to whether or not it serves c t eeds and desires of park users. In some cases, the current architecture and desi� a buildmay meet c i tomer expectations. In other cases, the building may no longer m��customer expectation4 The four newest park "shelter buildings in the park s tem were built in 1997 as part of a successfi�`.. general obligation bond. Those buildings were built at: 1. Cornelia School Park Al it � 2. Todd Park. i1 , 3. Walnut Ridge Park 4. Weber ParkiiIIII I 1!� ow These newer facilities caommodate social gatherings, meetings, classes, recreation programs and also serves' s a warming house to change skates and warm up during the winter skating season. The older shelter buildings serve primarily as a place in which to change skates during the winter skating season but are not used for other purposes during the non -winter seasons other than for their restroom facilities. GOAL The goal is to continue to provide a high level of park maintenance services that meets or exceeds resident's expectations. The goal is to continue this level of service on a daily basis as 22 • well as maintain or replace existing park infrastructure in a timely manner that meets or exceeds resident's expectations. POLICIES 1. The plan is to continue to fund and employ an appropriate number of full-time professional park maintenance staff and part-time seasonal staff to perform all daily maintenance functions needed to maintain Edina parks at a premier standard. As more infrastructures are added to the park system, more professional staff and equipment will be needed to maintain parks at a premier standard. F. 2. Through an aggressive Capital Improvement Plan and annual operating budget, worn park infrastructure will be either restored or replaced in a''Itimcly`fnanner that meets or exceeds residents' expectations. jV 3. It is the intent to not rely on voter approved genera ligation bonds to replace worn infrastructure. 1 4. It shall be the policy of the City of Edina to... t se Wny park and/or open space property currently owned by the City ofEdina. An exception to this policy might include a property exchange for land o0ie`4 or grey r value that is determined to be in the best interest of the community. jJ ' FHLETIC FIELDS AND FACILITIES AN BACKGROUND I#�. The nation-wide trend in youth athletics is that'there are more outdoor athletic field programs offered to more youth each year. More and more program offerings are extended to children at younger ages and both sexes each year. There are also more emerging sports that compete for the same fields, such. as, soccer, rugby, football, lacrosse and ultimate Frisbee. It is not uncommon for youth athletic asso�'! .ations to offer athletic field programs to youth who are pre- kindergarter 9e.. The Needs' Assessment Survey results state that 66% of households are either somewhat' ° upportive'(43%) or very supportive (23%) of developing outdoor athletic fields for sports. Developing outdoor jetic fie' s fosports scored third highest in list of what residents are most willing to fund witslind ionai collars.Developing waking and hiking trails was first (66%) and developing a noqecreation center was second (42%). Developing outdoor athletic'fields for sports ranked third in priority at 21 %. There is simply more demand than supply of outdoor athletic fields to accommodate the ideal schedule for all youth sports. When asked in the sure E what they think should receive the most attention from City of Edina officials over the next tw Jears, only 4% stated that "number of city soccer fields" should receive the most attention Given the demographics of Edina, the large senior population understandably has little or no interest in developing outdoor athletic fields. There are very few remaining park lands that could be developed into scheduled outdoor athletic field space. There is also a problem of over -scheduled fields which demands artificial turf to withstand the heavy use. Survey results also showed that the quality of outdoor athletic fields ranked much higher than the number of City soccer fields. 58% of respondents stated that they would support partnering with surrounding communities to develop sports facilities in communities within 1-5 miles of Edina. 23 There is an emerging trend that youth athletic associations and families are reluctant to accept youth athletic program offerings during the weekday and weekend times. The window of acceptable days and times of the day have shrunk, thus putting more pressure on demand for more facilities to accommodate the ideal schedule for families; especially for dual working parents and single parent families. GOAL Develop and maintain additional multi-purpose athletic fields where possible and reasonable within Edina's 40 parks to help meet the demand for outdoor athletic field facilities. Explore partnership or ownership opportunities within 5 miles of Edina t gevel9p and/or secure additional outdoor athletic fields. Expand program offerings ekday and weekend times to maximize availability of existing facilities. �f POLICIES �' 1. The plan is to explore the feasibility of deve�ping existing park lands into more outdoor athletic fields at parks such as Walnut idge Park, Pamela Park and Lake Edina Park. 2. Explore athletic field development and partnership opportunities with the Edina School District. 3. Explore the feasibility of convc 'ng one or more athletic fields into artificial turf surfaces. . x 4. Explore alternative scheduling opportunities, such as, 1� evenings and weekend events, plus, scheduled events during the wor day. 1, 5. It shall be the policy of the City of Edina to, t ny� .rk and/or open space property currently owned by the City of Edina.� �tion to this policy might include a property exchange for land of equal or gr, later value that is determined to be in the best interest of the community. COLLABORATIONS AND PARTNERSHIPS PLAN BACKGROUND The Edina Park and Recreation Department has entered into several collaborations and partnerships as an efficient and effective method of providing recreation programs and facilities. Examples include th � successful collaborative with the Cities of Richfield and Bloomington and the Southdale YMC $6 ,develop sand operate the YMCA Tri -City Skate Park. Another good example is the four -city partnership (ARLE) to provide adaptive recreation programs and services for residents with disabilities. The collaborative effort between the City and Hennepin County Library resulted in a very successful new Senior Citizen Center with a new 18,000 square foot library building on the second level. The City of Edina is also exploring a partnership opportunity with the Cities of St. Louis Park and Minneapolis to provide another off - leash dog park location in Edina. The City of Edina entered into a lease agreement with a private company that originally built and operated what is now the Braemar Golf Dome. Other public/private partnerships have been studied in the past. The Edina Park and Recreation Department also works closely with County and State levels of government to offer park and • recreation services and facilities. The City of Edina is working closely with Three Rivers Park District to construct a regional trail or two in Edina to connect with the greater regional trail 24 system. The Edina Park and Recreation Department also works closely with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources in efforts to provide quality shore line fishing opportunities. There are numerous other examples; however, the point is that partnerships and collaborations should continue to be a viable option when considering new park and recreation services and/or facilities. GOAL When considering options to provide new services and/or facilities, partnerships should be considered and studied as a cost-effective and efficient option. POLICIES 1. When considering new recreation program services f explore partnership opportunities that may be the most cost-effective an efficieAeans of providing the new recreation program experience. j 2. When considering development of new recreation facilities, staff will explore partnership opportunities (public/private and public/public ventures) as a potential method of offering recreational facilities on a cost-effective and efficient basis that is in the best interest of the community. 3. It shall be the policy of the City, pf Edina to not sell any park and/or open space property currently owned by the City of Edina. An exception to this policy might include a property exchange for land of equal or greate lue that is determined to be in the best interest of the community. °�1 1 Jilla USE OF VOLUNTEERS PLAN BACKGROUND `= :t' One of Edina's greatest assets is its volunteers. Without volunteers, the Edina Park and Recreatio Department would not be able to provide the extensive recreation programs and serviced ilable today. The Edina Park and Recreation Department also relies heavily on volunteerg� , o a number of things, only some of which include to: • Providerehensive historical services (archival services, historical museum, historical t preservation, etc.) through the Edina Historical Society. • Provide garde o �prtunities and services throughout Edina's parks via the Edina Garden Council. 1j • Provide comprehosive youth athletic program services for a wide variety of different sport opportunities via Edina's 12 independently incorporated youth athletic associations and its two sport clubs (swimming and figure skating). • Provide sound and informed advice to the City Council on important policies and other park and recreation matters via the Edina Park Board. • Provide sound and informed advice to the City Council on important visual arts policies and matters via the Edina Art Center Board. • Provide quality band concert music free to residents on a year around basis via the John Phillip Sousa Memorial Band. 25 • Provide advice to the staff at the Edina Senior Center via the Edina Senior Center Advisory Committee. • Provide extensive clerical and light duty services to the Edina Senior Center. • Provide numerous park improvement projects via Eagle Scout candidates. • Provide extensive park clean-up twice a year at each park via the Adopt -A -Park program. • Provide valuable input and feedback to the staff at Braemar Golf Course via the Braemar Golf Course Greens Committee. • Provide assistance to golfers, downhill ski enthusiasts, and other recreation program registrants who have developmental disabilities. 111ii1, The point is that the Edina Park and Recreation Department on volunteers who donate thousands of hours of selfless service each year to l oth41havily d further the mission of the Edina Park and Recreation Department.{� '�, GOAL It is the goal of the Edina Park and Recreation Dep a� t to recruit, utilize and ower Edina's volunteers toprovide a wid variety of im ort ices to help serve emission of e y p p the Edina Park and Recreation Department. It is also the o properly thank and recognize volunteers for their valuable and self -less serviges to the Cit Adina. POLICIES Ill! :. 1. It is the policy of the Edina Park and Recreation Department to rely on, support and empower volunteers to provide recreation services as a cost effective method of provide recreation services to residents. 2. Itis the policy of th jfdina Park and Recreation Department to recruit, train and supervise volunteers' where needed to provide recreation services at minimal cost to resiPts. 3. It " e policy of the City of Edina to annually (via the Annual Volunteer Awards . p tion and Annual Board and Commission Reception) recognize its outstanding vo rs and the value they bring to the City of Edina. INDOOR FITNESS AND EXERCISE FACILITIES PLAN BACKGROUND The results of the 2006 N&ds Assessment Survey show that 75% of respondents are either very supportive (44%) or somewhat supportive (31 %) of developing a new indoor recreation center in Edina. Results showed that a new indoor recreation center was the second most important new facility of respondents' choice. Developing walking and biking trails was first place at 89% being either very supportive (65%) or somewhat supportive (24%). When asked what they would be most willing to fund with additional tax dollars, respondents clearly stated that developing a new indoor recreation center (42%) was again second to developing walking and biking trails (66%). Developing outdoor athletic fields for sports finished third at 21 %. When 26 asked how they would allocate $100 in extra funds if made available for the City of Edina, the • response was: • $29 for improvements and maintenance of existing parks and recreation facilities. • $26 for new walking and biking trails. 0 $15 for a new indoor recreation center. • $9 for removal of buckthorn. • $7 for new outdoor and indoor sports facilities. • $6 for a new indoor nature center. • $4 for a new artificially refrigerated outdoor hockey rink.t� • $4 other. The survey asked respondents to choose from a list of 15 pd e ntial indoor programming spaces the ones that they and members of their household would use 'if they were developed in an indoor community center. Walking and jogging track (58%)was the indoor programming space that the highest percentage of respondent households would use. Other indoor programming spaces that at least 30% of respondents would use include: weight room/cardiovascular equipment (40%), aerobics/fitness/dance class space (40%), leisure pool (35%), andlgnes for lap swimming (30%). Clearly the majority of respondents desire more indoor recreation space venue opportunities for exercise and fitness purposes. Ali � F Developing indoor fitness opportunities se s triority for 0(khts that should be addressed. GOAL The goal is to explore and °studyop °ortunities to provide indoor exercise and fitness opportunities for Edina residents. This desired facility may best be provided solely by the private or quasi -public sector; such as, the Southdale 'YMCA and/or Lifetime Fitness and/or public/ p ate partnership; however, the goal is to ensure that the desire is met within the next five to, ;t ears. POLICIE 1. The plan4t actively a location and funding source to provide more indoor exercise fa� ° es withi _ . the next five to ten years. 2. The City of Edina will actively support the development of an indoor exercise facility in Edina, whether it is a public, private or partnership venture. 3. The City will explore a potential partnership opportunity with the Southdale YMCA to assist with expansion, renovation and/or replacement of the existing Southdale YMCA indoor fitness facilities. This partnership may involve a land lease or land swap agreement if necessary. 4. It shall be the policy of the City of Edina to not sell any park and/or open space property currently owned by the City of Edina. An exception to this policy might include a property exchange for land of equal or greater value that is determined to be in the best interest of the community. • 27 0 OUTDOOR HOCKEY AND GENERAL SKATING RINK PLAN BACKGROUND Due to the trend of warmer winter seasons each year, the Edina Park Maintenance Department finds it more challenging each year to provide and maintain quality outdoor skating ice for longer than six to eight weeks per year. There was a time when outdoor ice was easily attainable by December 20 each year. Outdoor ice was not attainable for skaters until after the first of the year for the 2006-2007 outdoor skating season. There is little debate that winters are getting warmer and outdoor ice is becoming more difficult to develop earl d late in the season. This trend may very well suggest that communities need to consider hf artificial refrigeration to ensure quality outdoor ice for skating during the winter m Most neighborhoods desire a hockey rink in the park nearest their home. The Edina Ho A ociation desires outdoor hockey rinks for many of their games and practices during winter months. If winter weather continues to be warmer each year, then communities will be fat ed with exploring other best practices to cost effectively provide and maintain quality ice during the winter season. These best practices may include artificial refrigerationsystems, high molecular density plastic rinks, covered ice rinks (large roof structures or shade materials), ice resurfacing machines and/or other creative methods to build and maintain quality outdoor ice. The Needs Assessment Survey results indicate very little community -wide support to fund a new outdoor uncovered artificially refrigerated hockey rink. The following are the results of "what respondents are most willing to fund with additional tax dollars41 4>, Develop Walking and Biking Trails 66/o Develop a New Indoor Recreation enter 42% Develop Outdoor Athletic Fields for.�Sports 21% Aggressively Buckthorn from City Parks 21 % Develop aNew Indoor ,Nature Center 19% 5 i Develop New Indoor Sports Facility, for Game% Develop a'°°New Outdoor Dog Exercise Park 17% Develop New,Outdoor Artificial Ice Hockey 13% Other 5% #i Even though there not strong community -wide support for artificially refrigerated outdoor hockey rinks, there may be interest in pursuing the concept with donated funds. GOAL o The goal is to continually explore best practices to provide and maintain quality outdoor ice hockey rinks in an effective and energy efficient manner. Continually monitor the demand for outdoor hockey rinks for scheduled play (games and practices) for the Edina Hockey Association, adult athletics (such as broomball and 4 -man hockey) as well as, the general public's demand/desire for recreational hockey. 28 POLICIES 1. The City of Edina will actively pursue best practices to develop and maintain quality outdoor ice hockey rinks during the winter skating season. 2. The City of Edina will continue to provide a manageable (ability to maintain quality outdoor ice with given manpower and equipment resources) number of outdoor hockey rinks that meets the demand for both scheduled hockey rink play as well as general hockey rink play. RECREATI BACKGROUND l � Edina offers a wide variety of recreation programs and services for a dents, toddlers through senior citizens. The Park and Recreation profess io staff and voluntee k to offer programs and services that meet the physical, intellectual, tional and social needs 1 residents. Recreation programs are offered year round. a Adaptive Recreation The City of Edina made a commitment to individuals with disabilities before it was required by the Americans with Disabilities Act. Edina is a part of a 4 cities and'school district partnership to offer a variety of recreation opportunities specifically designed for individuals with disabilities ages 3 and older. Edina Adaptive Recreation is also responsible for providing inclusion services to provide a successful opportunity, for individuals with disc kies who choose to participate in general recreation programs. i General Recreation Progr The Park and Recreation Dep t ofers'a wide variety of year round opportunities for residents of all ages. �f Youth. For youtha -14 the Recreat=ion De� dent offers programs at neighborhood parks during the summer m From Fab 4 & 5 < o "You're Not Too Old for this... there is something for everyone. Durr the winter a few special programs are also offered for our residents from "Tea for Two" to " in Movies" residents can register for these family friendly activities. Adults A variety of Adult athletic programs is also offered throughout the year. From Broomball to Kickball residents have the opportunity to register teams at all ability levels. Tennis For youth and adults ages 5 and older Edina offers tennis lessons at all ability levels. Shoreline Fishing Opportunities The Edina Park and Recreation Department has long promoted and supported efforts to offer shoreline fishing opportunities in Edina's parks. Through a successful partnership with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, the City of Edina has improved shoreline fishing opportunities at Rosland Park and Centennial Lakes Park. The Minnesota W Department of Natural Resources provided the City of Edina a grant to purchase and install a fishing pier at Rosland Park on Lake Cornelia. The Park and Recreation Department also supports fishing clinics and programs sponsored by the Minnesota DNR at Centennial Lakes Park. We continue to work with the professionals at the Minnesota DNR to improve habitat for fishing, educate youth about the sport of fishing and nature, and promote water quality. Youth Athletic Associations Edina Athletic Associations and Clubs currently offer athletic opportunities to over 9,000 youth of all abilities through fourteen clubs and associations. The independently incorporated youth athletic associations and clubs are run by volunteers with the help of a professional recreation staff liaison. In 2006, the City of Edina appointed a Youth Sports Task Force to address the current issues related to athletic opportunities available to yo th ik � Edina. The outcome of this task force is as follows: I 1. Updated relationship agreementil , 2. Updated priority use of outdoor facilities a 3. Formal grievance process to be followed whic ecedes existing associ grievance processesILI 4. Resolution of Youth Sports Core Values and Comumty Strategy 5. Uniform Code of Conduct Enterprise Facilities�t�� 1' The Enterprise Facilities within the Edina Parks and Recreation Department offer a comprehensive variety of programs and services in unique environments. The Edina Art Center offers a variety of programs for all ages to meet the creative visual arts needs of our residents. The Edina Art Center contracts with specialists to implement a variety of course offerings ranging from pottery to photography. Braemar Ice,;Arena is home to the Edina Hockey Association and Braemar City of Lakes Figure jf Skating b. Braemar also internally offers skating lessons and open skating to meet the passive ice sk4 ` eeds of residents. g f� X4 3 1a ai i 1i 1111. For golf enthusiasts Braemar Golf Cour, e offers lessons to youth and adults ages 11 and older. In a group setting or on a 1:1 basis Braemar employs golf professionals to offer beginning through advanced lessons. Braemar also offers tee times for 36 holes of golf. .�i The Edina Senior Centently has over 1,500 members ages 55+ seeking a variety of program offerings. Progr s are created and implemented by staff and volunteer seniors. From Bridge to Softball, the Senior Center is home to over 40 programs to meet the needs of all members. Centennial Lakes is a beautiful setting in the southeast quadrant of the City. During the Winter months Centennial Lakes offers skate rental and open skating for residents to enjoy the 10 acres of carefully maintained ice. During the summer residents are welcome to golf on the natural 18 hole grass putting course. Also available are free outdoor concerts, a croquet field, and 1.5 miles of pathways. 30 Edinborough Park currently offers 5 special events per year for residents to enjoy the Park. Adventure Peak is a recently added play structure that attracts youth up to age 12 from all over the metro area. The Edina Aquatic Center offers waterslides, a zero depth pool with a play structure, diving boards, a cable ride, and a themed dry play area for patrons to enjoy. For patrons who seek to improve their swimming skills, the Aquatic Center contracts with Foss Swim School to offer lessons for youth and adults ages 3 and older. GOAL,> 1. As Baby Boomers enter retirement, the Edina Park and R ceation Department will follow the trends and offer diverse opportunities for seniors. What use lto be softball and bridge is soon to be volunteering and rock climbing. The baby boomer > lafion will be looking for recreation opportunities outside of the senior center environment. 2. Youth obesity is now considered an epidemic` Children today are the first generation in which their life expectancy will be lower than that of their parents. The Park and Recreation Department has an opportunity to tackle this epidemic head on by providing recreation opportunities that lure kids away from the TV and out into the parks. 3. It is the Park and Recreation Department's goal to continue to support improved shoreline fishing opportunities, educate youth about the sport offishing, and support efforts to improve fish habitat including w%x ity.�`` 11 1111 POLICIES 1. The City will continue to add fitness based p grams for residents of all ages. 2. Thel(ity will explore program opportunities for Baby Boomers. 3.e City will explore options to provide safe opportunities for kids to play at their local ° p r' k in an unstructured Environment. 4. The City will continue to work closely with the Minnesota DNR to promote and support improved shoreline fishing opportunities in Edina, improve fish habitat, water quality and educate youth about the sport of fishing. 5. It shall be the policy of the City of Edina to not sell any park and/or open space property currently owned by the City of Edina. An exception to this policy might include a property exchange for land of equal or greater value that is determined to be in the best interest of the community. ENTERPRISE FACILITIES PLAN BACKGROUND The City of Edina owns and operates six different enterprise facilities within the Park and Recreation Department: 31 1. Edina Art Center 2. Braemar Golf Course and Fred Richards Golf Course 3. Braemar Golf Dome 4. Edina Aquatic Center 5. Edinborough/Centennial Lakes Park 6. Braemar Arena Each enterprise facility has its own mission statement: EDINA ART CENTER The mission of the Edina Art Center is to provide facilities, faculty programs and services that meet and reflect the needs of its esidents and neighbors for participation, education and enjoyment in tli arts with emphasis on fine arts. 14111, 1) iii 1� BRAEMAR AND FRED RICHARDS' GOLF COURSES AND BRAEMAR GOLF DOME 1 € 4 The mission of the Braemar GoIP4 rr e and Fred Richards f'Cour�se is to be a premier golf facility — keeping golf ac gsible and affordable to our residents, but not exclusive to Edina residents. We strive to be an exceptionally friendly, community based recreation amenity. Meeting our fiscal responsibilities and improving our facility for continued recreational pleasure is essential. Income generation is not our primary goal* BRAEMAR GOLF DOME The mission of the Braemar Golf Dome is t( 11ge leader in the winter golf industry in the Minneapolis/St. Paul metropoli an area by providing: the best quality golf balls and mats, a comfortable environment, and a friendly staff at a reasonable price to encourage repeat pits by customers. EDINA;AQUATIC CENTER The mission of the Edina,Aquatic Center is to be a premier public aquatic facility d to make swimming accessible and affordable to primarily, but not lusively, Edina.residents and yet remain competitively priced in the Twin area. EDIN�qO,�PII AND CENTENNIAL LAKES PARK The in Edinborough and Centennial Lakes Park is to serve as a premier gathering lot for social, cultural and recreational opportunities, primarily, but not exclusively for the Edina community. Objectives: • Provide a safe, comfortable and aesthetically pleasing environment for park patrons. • Provide premier recreational opportunities that are unique, inclusive and cost effective. 32 Provide a diversified level of quality cultural programming that is cost effective and entertaining. Provide quality rental facilities to meet the needs of the City and community. "All 040 M : ._.5T_ The mission of the Braemar Arena is to be a premier public ice facility and to make skating accessible and affordable to primarily, but not exclusively, Edina residents and yet remain competitively priced in thejn Cities area. Adj ��'a In the 2006 Needs Assessment Survey, reside asked which Edina Park and Recreation Department facilities they used the most threviijhe results were: 44% - Centennial Lakes Park 28% - Braemar Golf Course 27% - Edinborough Park 27% - Bredesen Walking or Biking Path 24% - Edina Aquatic Center 14% - Braemar Arena 13% - Rosland Park Walking Trail 9% - Fred Richards Golf Course 8% - Edina Art Center 7% - Edina Senior Centers 111114 6% - Arneson Acres Parlc`j 4% - Van Valkenburg'Park Off - 10% - Other Edina's enterprise recreation facilities"I'AW4M 6 variety of popular recreational opporlun't es to residents non-residents. enterprise facility is operated as a business; howevd the mission as stated above (and unlike the private sector) is not to maximize profits but to provide_ recreational opportunities are "accessible and affordable to primarily, but not exclusively, E '" residents and et remain competitively priced in the Twin Cities area." Each enterprise facility has its own unique business plan that is updated approximately every six years. The business plan for each enterprise facility includes a market analysis, competitive analysis, environmental analysis, marketing strategy, financial performance and business strategy. Surveys are conducted within each facility to better understand who are customers are, what their opinions are about the facility and programs, where they reside and how they hear about the facility. GOAL The goal for each of Edina's enterprise facilities is to provide recreational opportunities that are accessible and affordable to primarily, but not exclusively, Edina residents and yet remain competitively priced in the Twin Cities area. The goal is to provide fee-based revenue 33 generating recreation enterprise facilities that collectively cover all facility and program expenses, including capital improvements, land purchase and all operating expenses. POLICIES 1. The City will continue to update the business plan for each enterprise recreation facility every six or seven years. 2. The City will conduct surveys on a routine as needed basis to provide critical information in updating the business plan for each enterprise facility 3. The City will annually adjust fees and charges for enterprise facilities in a manner that is in keeping with the goal to provide recreational opportunities that are accessible and affordable to primarily, but not exclusively, Edina residents and yet remain competitively priced in the Twin Cities area. 4. The City will continue to modify each enterprise facility and its services on an as needed basis in a manner that reflects the current idented and validated demand for recreation opportunities. S. It shall be the policy of the City of Edina to not sell any park and/or, open space property currently owned by the City of Edina. An 6�tion to this policy might include a property exchange for land of equal or greac�iyalue that is determined to be in the best interest of the community. CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLANS The followingpages show the five yearCapital Improvement Plans (2008-2012) for the Edina Park and Recreation Departs ent. Each enterprise facility also has its own • Capital Improvement Plan. The funding for the Capital Improvement Plan is approved on an annual basis by the City Council; however, funding is only approved for the following calendar year. The following four years are shown for planning purposes and are adjusted annually to adapt to changin,needs. Funding for the Capital Improv ent Plan comes from a variety of sources, such as: • Revenue Bonds • Revolving Funds 1 • General Obligation Bonds • Public Improvement Revolving Bonds • Internal Transfers — Transfer from Reserves CAPITAL IMPROVE ENT PLAN 2008-201' ,V 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 Pathway Repairs/Additions: Arneson Acres 45,000 Parking Lot: Weber Park 38,800 Playground: McGuire Park 120,000 Playground: Pamela Park 150,000 Renovate softball field: Todd Park 91,000 Renovate west baseball field: Countryside Park 138,000 Renovate Pathwav - Todd Park 45,000 Plavaround: Chowen Park 120.000 34 Playground York Park 120,000 Batting/Pitching Cage - Pamela Park Hockey Rink Relocation - Walnut Ridge Park Off -Leash Dog Park - France Avenue Site Replace Playground Equipment Countryside Park Window Replacement - Arneson Acres Park New Athletic Field With Lights - Pamela Park Neighborhood Park - Van Valkenburg Park Replace Light Fixtures and Poles - Pamela Park 80,000 Pathway Plan Completion - Garden Park 90,000 Softball Field Llqhtinq - Pamela Park Softball Field Fencina - Pamela Park IT Concrete Maintenance Apron - Pamela Park 11 TOTALS 30,000 90,000 40,000 110,000 10,000 400.000 1 � : 3111111" 250,000 30,000 `555,000 554,000 440,000 600,000 35 I►�������'I'I� i �a4�tf�����ii�'' gllip����I'�I� 35 Park Akl, n MALONEY AV -----------� I wi'I... I: i�•I.i C7 1 MTN�~ f Todd Park L_—_—_—_—_.aara.� furl. I 1 I 6 Bro dale LLJJ II��JJ w Par"� INTERLACHEN BLVD - _ WdlPerk 50TH ST W ti �' Park �"'-� I •i { ; Q r M.q�k I �SII Tap r Ji fir,{i1'P% I L 1PaI 15.11 It S w Y"A I Pak f O 1 Oar&n _ Mel',. Ark I Waknl O�Dj" I.ak� / 'I 56TH ST W Pk Perk BENTON AVF < I Ark m leO I � Pa<k I� Pick m ghorea�..-� o, St .wpga Pamela )/ a LJ I l ' $ VPark 0 F ac�sr�7�wR \ c I clef Valby Ark ey. i Aa 1, I 1 Cardia " I i i eI Hem I 'VALEEW VIEW RD h,J h-1 j `'�"O MoOuirt 0 yN 70tH SI.W`.J I` (( .70TH SI w O V. ... /. I �.wi DEWEY HR, I. Golf Coiese L RD i PARKLAWN AVE` a,l \.... __ - Pork I{ B.— Perk & /---'�Hd re I Vli 76TH ST W _ I r (( Fdin ugh —_ - 78111 SFW —_—I —_—_ MINNGSOTA6':'- I r------------------ ---------------- — ----------- -------------�� .I- ��N""'�� City of Edina / �( a Engineering Dept Parks *� July, 2007 3,4001, 700 0 0 3,400 Feet • I I I I 1 I � OOI AVMIi!JIH r I l I i - I i 1 I 1 I I L._.� F 1 I i i' �I 'I xWN,lyarl w, � I -I 9 1H �I -I =1 b MSf AVM11DIH I I i SSK awl 4r A 6 �?A i —IV w_J U33 i .--------- ._............. ._. ----------- .----- ._I 1 1 } 9a "r 1 1 1 i i - r I i i R y es - i I i I OOI AVMIi!JIH r I l I i i i i i i i i i 1 I 1 I I L._.� 1 i i' b O ; ^ �'j "r 1 691 AVIAH-M ! 1._._.-._._.w.-.-._.-.-._._ i � I V 03 All G W i i s i i i i i i i i 1 I 1 I I L._.� 1 i i' 11111�'ijlg FiCI&S. Girais Is jill I.'Ajdjjjgcj­cd Spccics - Nckv York] inies * Noti 4 1 jork Zimcf* I Auglist 13, 2007 On Playing Fields, Grass Is an Endangered Species B -v DAVID (;t.)1 ZAI,FZ Ila )Lc I of 4 V C P Brandon Diaz ran across they springy grass infield, stood atop the pitcher's niound and, with a short windLip, let loose Avith a curveball to his father, John. 'rhe hardball zipped through the warin air, landingsquarelN. HI i,; fatlier's glove -�vith as plop that could barely he heard above the raspy hiss and clang froill a high-rise ut'ider construction across the street. "I'llotigh Brandon, 13, nokv plays in a Brooklyn league, he and his father love these fields of thick grass near their apa itment in Battery Park City. In fact, as lot of people love the fields, which tire home tet youth baseball o A soccTi, leagues, as well as,�.idult teams. More Young players are on tile %vay, too, judging from the apartnient buildings that continue to rise oil nearby blocks. ,e almost Linnattirally pastoral feel of these green oaseti in ay be a thing of the past, ho-vvever, because of the area's contillued popillarity with fainilies.To avoid the ignominy of being trampled Linderfoot, the grass fields need to be idle all wvinter, and once a week the rest of the year. As as result, there is increasing pressure 10111 leagile coaches to installo a synthetic turf tllow the fields to be used \Iear-i-ound to meet local deinand. m r. 1.)iaz would like to keep the local fields renal. Then again, he has seen nature,'s niceties give way to tile loc,d b1ii1ding boom. I used to have to river view in my apartment until they put up another building," lie said. "Lo okat the .,had(,)v,-S oil this field. We used to have nice sun in the afternoons until the buildings blocked it off. Viii not C cranlabotit artificial turf, but everything is doable, you know." \,,,iinilar need to increase recreational space across the, city has led park,., officials to rely oil synthetic turf to rcchailli bleak asphalt yards or extend the life, of scraggl.N, soccer fields. Its proponents also cite its cheaper 1111'lintenance costs, "New Yorkers expect to play where, they want, Nyhon they wvant," said.Adrian Bene pe, the commissioner of v)arks and recreation. "Our biggest need is to brake? as lotof places where kids can play so we can address alth risks like obesity," 17 4 10 " 1 1 i - . , . . - ., I , � A "Y._........_3,. t. I ­ 111 __ 1 U......._,'... 1 . ...... 0.....J`-...... _.._., ._Gt_. _.,_..... _.. 4. r1 I 011 jll<,Ivifw� Fit:lds, Orass Is aii I'miangcred Species - Nett York Fiiiics Page 2 oJ'4 B(It the rase of turf has ,flso prompted other health concerns, about the possible dangers posed by the Ill,iteritAlS LISCd to snake it, as well as its abilitA- to soak tip so tit Lich SUnlight that itheats up to extreme Ie rnpel"Itu'res. Scientists ilt ('041111hii Unit crsitt \vho analr Zed satellite thermal irriages of New York City the past two SHIIII'liffs concluded that s\ nthetic turf fields \verc up to 6o degrees hotter than grass Fields. 'I'lievattributed tll(, dift'orellev to the pignients wsed in inaking the turf, as well as the tad's reliance on filarnents that increasethe surface area thatsoatis up heat., More important, the turf lacked grass's ability to %.,aporize water and Cool the air, Stuari Gaffin, an associate rescarch scientist, at the Center for Climate �'-,',ystems Research at Columbia university, said t1w synthetic fields get allnost as hot as as tar rooftop. "I've boen telling evorybody that turf is aniong, the hottest surfaces in the city," said Dr. (WLaffin, who is publishes gthe" Study later this ye,, % "With the scale we are talking abotit here, I think they ar going to be hazardous phicet" to be during heat waves in the citN-, I know the public wants these spaces. My position is: ("an we ens )ineer as lower tempenittire?" z 1"'Vell without the heat, some opponents of turf have raised qi testions abotit the recycled tire rubber that is "F(Aind Upand sprinkled (.,)n the turf to giv(,k it added cushion and springiness. William Crain, a psy hology professor at City College who paid to have the nibberinalyzed, qtid it contained "N,""o.rrisolne" levels ref known carcinogen, polveyelic ar(,,)tiiatic hydrocarbon, or P.A.1-1, The manufacturer said the chernical could not be absorbed by the slin or stornach, but Dr. Crain insisted furtherstudy was needed. I IIs ob .1 ections to turf go beyond ally Possible physical effects it may have. As as psychologist has studied cl-ii1dren and plaY, lie insisted that natural Fields stimulated chil(iren's mental dc,cloptncntl)y increasing alae rr CLll-iorte' and their powers of observation, In as city vVilere there is t,"ery little nature left, kids are already living in a synthetic indoorsetting,- he said. 'When they go outside, they should feel grass and soil. Instead, were putting artificial surfaces outside, to Similar ar�lllllvilts are folind in Battery Park, City, as as task force studies the pros and cons ol'synthetic an(I mthiral fields. The gl'OUP, VV[10W 111eillbers said they Nvere leaning toward synthetic turf, will make its recommendation to the Battery Park City Authority, tvhieh oversees tit(,k area's development. A final decision may conie bythe tear's end. James F� (gill, the authority's chairman, said. lie wanted to be sure that his concernsabout adv-erse eff"ects on. health vvere addressed to his satisfaction. At the same time, 110 Under,'*)Dds the unceasing pressure to Prt vidt. recre<.aional spaces in im area that hens seen its population double in the last to years. While thearea t, rooi I I ItIt I i/I Ik I 11! 1 w;f I IviJi. III or, 19 r, I Al"w" C, — I"— i {m I'lavitig 1�ickis, Orris Is an I"'mimigered Sjv62s - Nt:w- York, Iiiiies Nwe 3 oj'4 built oil landfill, Some fi-oni the construction of the Original World Trade Center, niany residents are noa. w Id of it,,, onvironnientally friendly reputation. .Ave have [wen on point vvifli respect to being green an(] protecting the environment liere," Mr. Gill said. -I I knowartit'cial turf is not in keeping with that, but it is alk vays a balancing thing. You get something, but you something Up." Mark Costello, as parent xvho is the president of the Downtokvri Little League, said SN11thetiC Ulrf',VTOUld double the available playing tinie. "Theafterliative f I- Me is SP01-tS Fields or my kid in front cif as computer playing video games," he said. "I \�'i.)Itidlo\;(,nit -ki(isLoplaty' otAt,i-,issfoi'aestlietiri-easoiis.'fliatisjti,o,ttiottlierealitv vve are facing, AT-tificial tjj1-fSCrVeS Urban leagues better," The t'.)rospeet of losing-, tlwgrass fields at Battery Park Citi has alarnied Christian DiPalermo, the executive d; rector of New Yorkers for Parks, an advocacy group that la st year issued a report urgin- caution on installing the fields, ­111;lt WOUld be as sin," he said. -4'o take away grass in an arva with a dearth of parklandjust for as ftn-v more es') That does not inal�el sense." The 10Cal SUI)l)(AA for the fields was typicall. Mr. DiPaiernlo said, of Other communities in the city where the turf is seeii as a cluick fix, rather than part cif as long tern strategy. "We lmokv the, problem is overcapacity, 11 hesai(t "But \vhere is they vision? We don't even know how long this turf will last." le Yet the city keeps installing the synthetic fields wherever po,;sible. Commissioner Beriepe said that vdii he ,vas not axvare ofany hazzirdA posed b,.y turf, he had asked the Departnient of Healili and Mental llvgieneto review tile Current research onsynthetic turf and iiiale recommendations if necessary. I le added that his department vias trying towe if changing the color Or consistency ofthe rubber used for the field-, would A'Stilt, in lower tern pvv�atures, too. "'Tlivre is noldiing inherently danorerous to these fields," Mr. Benepe said. "ANhat is dangerous is letting kids 1*) pla.v toucli football can asphalt. Them" is a greater likelihood Of head injuries in a fall than any danger from ingesting the rubber crunibs." "I I 11� A I*Ckv days aid o in Red I look, Brooklyn, a handful Of VOLIM' people kicked soccer ballsand ran drills can at ,niooth ;ynth otic field. Ata gras-s pitch across the street, only pigoons pecked though the era ggly blades that ed Ilic7 bald spot between the goal posts. 1. - The area is so poptilar that both fields are in nonstop use on the %veekends. -John Triana, a trainer and coach, 'Ahivrooi nxlwl 'Wilv%villf. 11tiv7l'? R / I I P) f 1 W7 I I I Ficlds, Grass Is rm I -'n(Jmgcrcd Sliccies - York Fi I I 11ge 4 of 4 said he kept his 14ayers off the jymss Aeld Imeause it had hm many roc ksand somethms even 10ass shards, 1 le adniqted that the zymhetie field sometinws hKed Ile a desert in the sunimer, with shimmering %,vaves of heat rising Wn As surbey On hot Qs, he makes his players takewater breaks every six minutes, Annethnes they get blisters on their feet. Mill, he , said, niost players liked it. .,You can run fester," li(,� said. "It's like playing of) a pool table." Personally, W preferred playing on grass. It gave lArn as visceral kicl� back to his college days, You smeH the grass and it r'i'minds you of computitionl' he suid, Wevvy grass in the morning is HQ "Inv, the jnweason. It sends chiDs tq) my spine Hke noding eke. Artificial tuH*doesn't, give you that." CupynqM , 2007, Nvf w Y -,r mw, -s r1fiva'y Policy II omad Js 1 Oiork, fo;, U", Map ho I rl, ll\"l i 1 -now m ""At H 17MR! I limmo bw I MtumW in," 19 —i A -- -- v. 0, 1 � wv,7 MISSION STATEMENT The Edina Athletic Facilities Foundation supports the youth and adult recreation needs in the Edina Community. This Organization, with the support of the Edina Community Foundation, works to secure donations to fund new developments and improvements to Edina's public athletic facilities. In cooperation with the Edina Athletic Associations and Clubs, School District, City of Edina and the community, we strive to provide premier recreation, training, and game facilities for the Community. 11