HomeMy WebLinkAbout2024-05-13 Parks & Rec Comm PacketAgenda
Parks and Recreation Commission
City Of Edina, Minnesota
Braemar Golf Course
Monday, May 13, 2024
7:00 PM
I.Call To Order
II.Roll Call
III.Approval Of Meeting Agenda
IV.Approval Of Meeting Minutes
A.Minutes: Parks & Recreation Commission April 8, 2023
V.Special Recognitions And Presentations
A.Welcome new member to the Parks and Recreation
Commission
VI.Community Comment
During "Community Comment," the Board/Commission will invite residents to share relevant issues
or concerns. Individuals must limit their comments to three minutes. The Chair may limit the
number of speakers on the same issue in the interest of time and topic. Generally speaking, items
that are elsewhere on tonight's agenda may not be addressed during Community Comment.
Individuals should not expect the Chair or Board/Commission Members to respond to their
comments tonight. Instead, the Board/Commission might refer the matter to sta% for
consideration at a future meeting.
VII.Reports/Recommendations
A.Edina Girls Fastpitch Association Special Project Request:
Pamela Park Softball Fields Lighting
B.Edina Baseball Association Special Project Request: Countryside
Baseball Field Upgrades
VIII.Chair And Member Comments
IX.Sta5 Comments
A.Upcoming Meetings and Events
X.Adjournment
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 ampli6cation, an
interpreter, large-print documents or something else, please call 952-927-8861
72 hours in advance of the meeting.
Date: May 13, 2024 Agenda Item #: IV.A.
To:Parks and Recreation Commission Item Type:
Minutes
From:Perry Vetter, Director Parks & Recreation
Item Activity:
Subject:Minutes: Parks & Recreation Commission April 8,
2023
Action
CITY OF EDINA
4801 West 50th Street
Edina, MN 55424
www.edinamn.gov
ACTION REQUESTED:
Approve minutes from the April 8, 2024 Parks & Recreation Commission meeting.
INTRODUCTION:
ATTACHMENTS:
Description
Minutes: Parks & Recreation Commission April 8, 2024
Draft Minutes☒
Approved Minutes☐
Approved Date: XX/XX/2024
Minutes
City of Edina, Minnesota
Edina Parks & Recreation Commission
Braemar Golf Course
April 8, 2024
7 p.m.
I. Call to Order
Chair Doscotch called the meeting to order at 7 p.m.
II. Roll Call
Answering roll call were Commissioners Doscotch, Kane, Luangrath, Pettit, Pfuhl, Spanhake, Weaver
and Student Commissioners DiLorenzo and Holtey
Commissioner Absent: Garazatua
Commissioner Welsh arrived at 7:02 p.m.
Staff Present: Staff Liaison Perry Vetter, Assistant Director Parks & Natural Resources Tom Swenson,
Assistant Director Recreation & Facilities Tracy Petersen, Recreation Supervisor Nicole Gorman,
General Manager of Braemar Arena & Field Jesse Buchholz, Assistant Manager Correy McConnach,
and Administrative Coordinator Janet Canton
III. Approval of Meeting Agenda
Motion made by Pfuhl to approve the meeting agenda. Motion seconded by Weaver. Motion
carried.
IV. Approval of Meeting Minutes
Motion made by Pfuhl to approve the March 12, 2024, minutes. Motion seconded by
Spanhake. Motion carried.
V. Special Recognitions and Presentations
A. Welcome New Member to the Parks & Recreation Commission
Chair Doscotch informed the Commission they will reschedule this item until the next meeting.
Staff Liaison Vetter informed the commission that the newly appointed Commissioner Garazatua
was on Military Reserve Duty during the last meeting, and he has since been required to go on
Active Duty.
B. Introduction of Braemar Arena & Field General Manager
Assistant Director Petersen introduced Jesse Buchholz, the new General Manager of Braemar
Arena & Field. General Manager Buchholz was introduced, and his credentials were given. The
Commissioners were directed to their packets for additional information. General Manager
Bucholz is now in his fifth week of employment.
VI. Community Comment
None
Draft Minutes☒
Approved Minutes☐
Approved Date: XX/XX/2024
VII. Reports/Recommendations
A. Senior Center Update
Assistant Director Petersen introduced Recreation Supervisor Nicole Gorman of the Edina
Senior Center. Recreation Supervisor Gorman stated that there are nine programable spaces at
the Senior Center, one shuffleboard area, and an aquarium. There are a total of six staff members
at the Senior Center. Recreation Supervisor Gorman is the only full-time staff member. The
other five staff members are part-time. Recreation Supervisor Gorman gave an overview of the
services offered at the Senior Center. The operating hours are Monday through Friday from 8
a.m.- 4:30 p.m.; however, after-hour programming is often offered up until 8 p.m. and on
Saturdays.
B. Braemar Ice Arena & Field Facility Update
General Manager Buchholz introduced Corey McConnach, the Assistant General Manager of Braemar
Arena & Field. Assistant General Manager McConnach has been with the city for nine years, seven of
which have been full-time.
General Manager Buchholz stated that there are currently 110 staff members, most of which are part-
time. There are approximately 500,000 people in the facility each year. There are three permanent ice
sheets, and one seasonal rink that is functional from early November to mid-March. General Manager
Buchholz gave an overview of the programs offered along with the management of equipment, noting
the expansion/renovation project is a big focus right now.
Assistant General Manager McConnach stated that the Braemar Dome season runs from the first week
in November through the end of April. The day-to-day operations is supported with 12 part-time staff
members and seven full-time staff members. The outdoor space is 17 acres, and the indoor space is
100,000 square-feet. There are approximately 100,000 visitors each year.
Assistant General Manager McConnach stated that the staff is looking into some upgrading
opportunities, they are reviewing and updating the emergency plans, and they have applied for some
County grant money to repair and replace some equipment. A major challenge is the drainage system
below the fields, and the severe weather we experience are not ideal for domes in general. The
replacement cost for the turf alone would be approximately $500,000.
C. 20024 Commission Work Plan
Initiative 1.6.1 – Review and comment on Fred Richards Implementation. Staff Liaison
Vetter stated that Parks Planner Rachel Finberg will be reaching out to the four Initiative Leaders
soon to share the draft proposal requesting architectural services for the actual building. Parks
Planner Finberg has also prepared a survey for Student Commissioner DeLorenzo to gather input
from high school peers related to social and casual use of other space used around the
community.
Initiative 1.6.2 – Review and comment on Braemar Park Implementation. Staff Liaison
Vetter stated that Parks Planner Finberg will be sharing information on the bid requests to build
Draft Minutes☒
Approved Minutes☐
Approved Date: XX/XX/2024
the mountain biking trails that were approved by the City Council. The next step is to review a
contract for ongoing maintenance with MORC (Minnesota Off Road Cycling Federation).
Initiative 1.6.3 – Review and comment on Braemar Arena Implementation. Staff Liaison
Vetter stated that there is an owner’s representative for the arena group, and they are hoping to
have architectural and engineering request proposals in April.
Initiative 1.6.4 – Community Garden Study and Report. Chair Doscotch informed the
Commission that Commissioners are coordinating a discussion with representation from the
Energy Environment Commission, which had to be cancelled. The hope is to reschedule it for
some time during the week of April 15. Student Commissioner Holtey gave a PowerPoint
presentation on community gardens. The York Park Community Garden is in full utilization, and
there is a wait list. School Gardens are popular and maintained by the students during the school
year and during the summer, parents tend the School Gardens.
In the Community Garden, a 10-foot by 10-foot plot is $40 to rent for the year, and a 10-foot by
15-foot plot is $50 to rent for the year. People who are current renters have priority over new-
comers.
Initiative 1.6.5 – Review and compare park shelter building amenities and function. Staff
Liaison Vetter stated that he sent some information on comparable facilities in order to show
what is available at the different locations.
VIII. Chair and Member Comments
• Commissioner Kane brought up a concern for parking issues at the Braemar Golf Dome,
which he feels are safety issues. Commissioner Kane asked whether some signage,
additional lighting, or even flashing lights can be added? It was noted that currently there is
consideration for expanding the parking and/or creating a trail head in that area. Staff will
discuss with the Engineering Traffic Safety representative on any interim review that can
occur.
• Commissioner Pettit brought up dog parks, noting Edina has only two, and asked what are
the steps for removal/replacement for worn-out/damaged park chairs? Assistant Director
Swenson indicated that the city does have a bench donation program.
IX. Staff Comments
A. Upcoming Meetings and Events
Staff Liaison Vetter gave the following updates:
• There is a large project in process to remove buckthorn from 31 acres. This is a three-
year process using grant money.
• The Parks & Recreation Commission May meeting will be held on Monday, May 13. The
Edina Girls Fast Pitch will be coming with a special request.
• On Tuesday, May 21, 2024, there will be a Joint Work Session with the City Council.
Attendance at this meeting is recommended, but not required. The meeting will begin at
5:30 p.m.
Draft Minutes☒
Approved Minutes☐
Approved Date: XX/XX/2024
• In June the Parks & Recreation Commission meetings will return to Tuesdays.
X. Adjournment
Motion made by Spanhake to adjourn the April 8, 2024, meeting at 8:05 p.m. Motion
seconded by Weaver. Meeting adjourned.
Date: May 13, 2024 Agenda Item #: V.A.
To:Parks and Recreation Commission Item Type:
Other
From:Perry Vetter, Parks & Recreation Director
Item Activity:
Subject:Welcome new member to the Parks and Recreation
Commission
Information
CITY OF EDINA
4801 West 50th Street
Edina, MN 55424
www.edinamn.gov
ACTION REQUESTED:
Welcome newly appointed member to the Parks and Recreation Commission.
INTRODUCTION:
On Tuesday, February 20, 2024, the Edina City Council appointed Park & Recreation Commissioners. Welcome
to Chris Garazatua to the commission and for your commitment to volunteering in this role. Chris is currently
serving in the US Navy on Active Duty and will be participating on a limited schedule in 2024 according to MN
State Statute 13D.02 (b1).
Date: May 13, 2024 Agenda Item #: VII.A.
To:Parks and Recreation Commission Item Type:
Report and Recommendation
From:Perry Vetter, Parks & Recreation Director
Item Activity:
Subject:Edina Girls Fastpitch Association Special Project
Request: Pamela Park Softball Fields Lighting
Discussion
CITY OF EDINA
4801 West 50th Street
Edina, MN 55424
www.edinamn.gov
ACTION REQUESTED:
The goal of adopting a special project request process is to allow residents to bring forth ideas about amenities to
expand offerings in the park system. T hese requests are meant to be informal and used as a beginning point of
dialogue, saving the requestor, staff and the commission from having to develop a detailed analysis for the project
at the introductory stage.
Community and project engagement will need to be determined and the approval process defined. Impacts to
park users and neighborhood will need to be further studied and engaged. Engagement could range from inform
to empower. This request starts the formal process. Staff is requesting feedback from the commission on this
field lighting proposal from the association to gauge interest. Taking into account commission feedback, staff
would like direction on desired next steps.
INTRODUCTION:
The Edina Girls Fastpitch Association (EGFA) has submitted a special project proposal for diamond field lighting
for fields 1, 2, and 3 at Pamela Park and has been invited to the May 13th meeting to introduce their request.
The association, represented by Vice President Mike Ganley has prepared a proposal that addresses questions
from the community member portion of our special projects request policy.
ATTACHMENTS:
Description
Staff Report
EGFA Request and Supplemental Information
EGFA Presentation Pamela Park Lighting Project
May 13, 2024
Parks & Recreation Commission
Perry Vetter, Parks & Recreation Director
Edina Girls Fastpitch Association Special Project Request: Pamela Park Softball Fields Lighting
Information / Background:
The Edina Girls Fastpitch Association (EGFA) has submitted a special project proposal for diamond field
lighting for fields 1, 2, and 3 at Pamela Park and has been invited to the May 13th meeting to introduce their
request. The association, represented by Vice President Mike Ganley has prepared a proposal that addresses
questions from the community member portion of our special projects request policy. A response has also
been provided for staff’s additional questions.
Edina Girls Fastpitch Association currently shares use of two regulation softball fields with Edina High
School’s Hornets Softball for games or tournaments at Pamela Park. Pamela Park is the home field for Edina
High School games. All fields at the park have amenities such as dugouts, fencing, and scoreboards. The
applicants request and proposal outlines the association’s identified needs and justifications. Representatives
from Girls Fastpitch will be in attendance to provide background and information on their organization,
participants, and projected growth.
Staff Analysis:
Pamela Park is in the northeast quadrant of Edina, in a neighborhood bearing the same name. It is one of
Edina’s larger parks, classified as a community park at 64.93 acres. A former swamp land, Pamela Park has
been filled and re-graded multiple times to maximize recreational usage while still maintaining natural
resources and enhancing water quality. Recreational spaces at Pamela include a playground, tennis courts,
shelter building, lighted hockey rink, lighted synthetic multi-use fields, batting cages, and three softball
diamond fields. Home to Edina Hornets High School Softball and Edina Girls Fastpitch Association (EGFA)
and other users, these three fields are scheduled from April through November totaling approximately
3,750 hours of field time in 2023. Edina Girls Fastpitch Association (EGFA), the most frequent user, used
3,204 hours of practice, game, and tournament play at Pamela.
STAFF REPORT Page 2
When reviewing this proposal, staff identified several factors that are impacted.
Neighborhood and Community Interest and Benefits:
In 2016, based off Edina’s population size and recreational trends, our strategic plan identified the need for 2
baseball and 2 softball fields. When the community survey was conducted, however, this need ranked very
low in overall priority so no action was requested. The addition of more baseball and softball fields was put
on hold until the community expressed need. This request supports a community expressed need.
Edina Parks and Recreation Department programs and maintains 44 Parks, and over 1,562 acres of open
spaces in Edina. There are 56 city owned fields, 26 can be reserved and are maintained as baseball and
softball fields. Youth softball has use of 9 diamond fields with 5 game ready, 2 with fencing, and none with
lighting. Youth baseball has use of 14 diamond fields, 7 with fencing and 4 with lighting at Courtney Field
within Braemar Park. Adult softball has 3 lighted fields at Van Valkenburg Park. EGFA has used Van
Valkenburg for their program however the infrastructure is not sized appropriately for their use.
This project would help to increase access for girls' sports to fields and facilities within the park system. It
would support the equity goals of the city and parks and recreation department. This request, as well as
2023 budget allocation and identified needs from Edina Parks and Recreation would allow for more
distributed access to regulation fields. It would promote physical activity and lifelong sportsmanship and
social connectedness for Edina girls. It would also increase the exposure of Edina youth to the sport and the
mental, physical, and social benefits that it provides. A further study and assessment may be needed to
identify overall softball needs and accessibility needs and goals.
This project also supports the city’s budget pillars of Reliable Service (maintain service levels that best meet
community needs) and Better Together (foster an inclusive and engaged community). It also promotes the
city’s budget values of Equity, Stewardship, and Health. The increased access to, and promotion of, physical
activity, lifelong sportsmanship, and social connectedness, are shared goals of EGFA and the City of Edina.
Funding:
The City of Edina functions on a bi-annual budget process. In odd year’s the City Council approves a two-
year operating budget. For example, in 2023 an operating budget was proposed and approved for the fiscal
years 2024 and 2025. In even year’s the City Council approves a six-year capital budget. For example, in
2024 a capital budget will be proposed this year and approved for the fiscal years 2025-2030. This project
request would be considered a Capital Improvement Project (CIP) request. The CIP process would require
the request to be reviewed and selected by committee, city manager, and then receive City Council
approval. As part of the 2023 Commission Work Plan Initiative on alternative funding opportunities, over
$2M in unfunded projects and $5.5M in horizon unfunded projects were highlighted for Athletic Association
Improvements. The Capital Improvement Program for 2023-2028 identified over $35M in unfunded and
unscheduled park projects. Annually, $2M is appropriated for all capital improvements, not just park
requests, city wide for all departments. The lack of available funding is not a reflection of the merits of the
proposed activity.
STAFF REPORT Page 3
Funding for this special project request would need to be identified. Due to cost and scope of proposed
project request it is not achievable within annual operating budget allocations for field improvements. The
city has allocated 50,000 in 2024 and 50,000 in 2025 to improve softball diamond fields and is working with
the Girls Fastpitch Association to prioritize their needs. A high-level cost estimate has identified $350,000
needed for lighting 2 fields and $475,000 needed for lighting 3 fields not inclusive of electrical upgrades or
design costs.
Edina staff submitted a request in 2023 on behalf of EGFA for the Hennepin Youth Sports grant in the
amount of $275,000 for Softball Field improvements. This request was not selected for their 2024 grant
award cycle. A submission in 2024 for 2025 could be made for field lighting instead of fencing and field
improvements. The city indicated a $100,000 matching in the 2023 request but would only be able to match
$50,000 in the next application. If the full grant amount was awarded this would provide $350,000 for the
project but additional matching or funding would need to be identified. Additional community funding has
not been investigated at this point.
Lighted fields in Edina Parks do have additional rental fees. If fields are to be rented for tournaments and
non-Edina Associations, there is an additional $15 fee per field with this rental. There is no additional cost
for Edina Associations practices or games.
This request would be for a newly purchased and installed system and therefore no energy efficiency or
sustainability grants are eligible for this project. High level estimates would show that each field would cost
less than $3 per hour to operate. The anticipated life of these systems is 25 years and maintenance and
operational costs would be minimal and limited to emergency repairs.
Location
The proposal provided indicates Pamela Park as the requested location for the EGFA special project
request. Pamela Park is city owned property and no additional land purchase would be needed for the
project. The addition of lighting at this park would not directly displace any existing recreational
programming but would extend recreational programming for the fields. Though these fields are not in use
after sunset, there are potential parking conflicts with shelter rentals and overflow from lighted multi-use
fields. These conflicts and uses currently exist during daylight hours and would not be exasperated at night.
Pamela Park currently has lighting on the shelter building for security and wayfinding, hockey rink, and
synthetic turf multi- use fields. Hours of lighting are monitored and limited by city staff. A new lighting
system would be expected to be compliant with City of Edina’s lighting ordinance. Since upgrades to LED
and controls systems there have been no lighting complaints registered with the city in regard to existing
lighting at Pamela Park.
This project will have impacts on the surrounding properties. Even with a high-quality lighting system which
minimizes light trespass and glare, there is a possibility surrounding neighbors may be impacted by light
placement and views from their property. Field lighting has made significant improvements in minimalization
of these impacts, however there is still potential for impact. Staff would recommend a photometric study be
done to show light level impacts that project would bring. Pamela Park has over 95 direct neighbors. This
STAFF REPORT Page 4
improvement has different levels of impacts to these neighbors with the highest to those in Northwest
quadrant off Oaklawn Avenue and 59th St W. Increased sunset programming would potentially impact traffic
and noise at Pamela Park. Hours of use are limited to park hours. New control systems also allow for
lights to be scheduled, monitored, and controlled remotely by staff. Parking for diamond fields is off
Oaklawn Avenue and by the shelter building.
Though this request is specific to Pamela Park, lighting upgrades are occurring throughout the city. Strategy
4.1 of Parks, Recreation, and Trails Strategic Plan identifies a goal to “Design flexibility into outdoor spaces
and athletic fields to meet current needs and ready adapt to future recreation trends”. Tactic 4.1.3
specifically calls out “Ensure adequate lighting to extend playability times throughout the year and in
morning/ evening times. This tactic launched a city-wide inventory of existing lighting. It aided in
maintenance requirements and budgeting for replacements and upgrades. This, however, is the city’s first
new lighting request. Additional entities may have similar needs and future requests are possible.
Staff has not yet examined any detailed liability or other required factors associated with this request. An
engagement and site selection process are not in place for sports lighting requests. Street lighting
request/petitions have been granted through an established process which includes impacted resident
approvals.
Next steps
The goal of adopting a special project request process was to allow residents to bring forth ideas about
amenities to expand offerings in the park system. These requests are meant to be informal and used as a
beginning point of dialogue, saving the requestor, staff and the commission from having to develop a detailed
analysis for the project at the introductory stage.
STAFF REPORT Page 5
Community and project engagement will need to be determined and the approval process defined. Impacts
to park users and neighborhood will need to be further studied and engaged. Engagement could range from
inform to empower. This request starts the formal process.
Staff is requesting feedback from the commission on this field lighting proposal from the association to gauge
interest. Taking into account commission feedback, staff would like direction on desired next steps. Those
next steps for this project would include some or all of the following:
• Impacts Study: photometrics, traffic
• Detailed Costing Analysis: infrastructure needs and lighting fixtures
• Community Engagement Plan: Inform, Consult, Involve, Collaborate, or Empower that would include
at a minimum a Better Together Edina project page and a community meeting where EGFA presents
their proposal.
• Funding Identification: CIP process, community funding, association funding
• PARC Review and Recommend: Review next step materials and information
• City Council Review and Authorization: Staff report and Commission recommendations
Attachments:
EGFA Special Project Request (Community Member Submission)
Response to Additional Questions
Supplemental Reference Materials
Pamela Park Softball Fields Lighting Project Request
Submitted by: Mike Ganley on behalf of the Edina Girls Fastpitch Association (EGFA)
Dated: 4/2/2024
a. Community Demand:
Pamela Park is the home field for the Edina Girls High School Softball Teams and the Edina Girls
Fastpitch Association. The Edina Girls Softball Programs’ participants total approximately 250 – 300
girls/young women whose families are Edina residents. The teams are comprised of a diverse range
of age groups from 6 yr. old and under (6U) to 12 yr. old and under (12U) plus three high school
level teams: the “B Team”, “JV Team” and “Varsity Team”.
The primary objective of this request is to introduce lighting infrastructure at Pamela Park on Fields
1, 2 and 3. The “Level of Service” in the Edina’s 20 year Park System Strategic Plan, Figure 1.1 lists
“Softball Fields” as “Need Exists”. We do note that the number of softball fields increased from one
(1) field in 2014 to two (2) fields in 2019, but the status of “Need Exists” remains.
The justifications for our request include:
(1) Accommodating an expanded schedule of home softball games during the April – October
softball season.
(2) Allowing the girls softball players to partake in night games and/or practices on their home
fields, thus reducing tight scheduling conflicts.
(3) Beginning to mirror the resources currently available to the boys’ baseball program at Courtney
Fields.
This project transcends mere access to facilities. It is a commitment to fostering equitable treatment
for girls within the Edina community by enriching the experience for both the younger ages 6U-12U
ages and high school players, contributing to the cohesion of the broader community.
b. Impact of Non-Support:
The absence of support for this project will radiate:
1) Continued constraints for girls in the softball programs due to limited access to facilities during
daylight hours for the 3 Pamela fields.
2) Ongoing gaps in resources between girls’ softball programs and boys’ baseball programs, which pose
a significant challenge to the city’s efforts to promote gender equity in sports.
3) The “Grandview District Master Planning Project” conducted a “Community Facility Inventory” cited
in the Strategic Plan made comparisons of Edina with surrounding communities that include St Louis
Park, Hopkins, Minnetonka, Eden Prairie, Bloomington, and Richfield. The majority of these
communities have softball facilities that are superior to Edina’s.
c. Expected Benefits:
The Edina’s 20 year Park System Strategic Plan cites as a Master Plan Purpose, “Evaluate current
facilities and programs to determine if the recreation and leisure needs of Edina’s citizens are being
adequately met.” Although the 2015-2035 Strategic Plan mentions baseball and slow pitch softball and
not “fast pitch softball”, it is assumed that this is an oversight.
1) The Strategic Plan cites a Guiding Principle Key that states “Provide excellence and innovation in
parks and recreation services to meet the needs of the community.”, and “Connect residents to park
facilities and their programs”’ and “Promote social equity and engagement within the parks system
and its programs.” All are related to this project’s purpose.
2) The addition of lights will optimize Pamela Park’s usage by expanding the availability for softball
activities.
3) The completed project will begin to address the resource imbalance between girls’ softball and
boys’ baseball.
4) The enhancement of Pamela Park’s softball facilities will begin to bring them in line with facilities in
neighboring communities.
d. Recommended Site
The proposed site for the project encompasses Pamela Park fields 1, 2 and 3. This decision stems from
careful consideration of the suitability of these fields to accommodate the necessary infrastructure and
ensure comprehensive lighting coverage for softball activities. By strategically selecting these fields, the
project aims to maximize its impact and create an environment conducive to fostering enhanced softball
experiences for the community.
e. Financial Resources
The primary source of funding for the project is the city of Edina itself. While other potential funding
avenues have not been identified, the community's commitment to this initiative underscores its
significance and urgency.
f. Considered Alternatives
In exploring alternatives, the softball program initially considered expanding field usage at Van
Valkenburg fields. However, this approach encountered hurdles, such as competition with other city
programs and scheduling conflicts arising from the fields' designation for adult softball, along with
fencing configurations unsuitable for girls' softball needs. Additionally, other potential options, such as
modifying Courtney fields to accommodate multi-use purposes, such as removing grass from the
infields, or leveraging other lighted fields in Edina, such as Braemar turf field, Pamela Park turf field, or
Lewis Park fields, could be explored. However, these alternatives were not thoroughly considered at this
stage. Despite thorough exploration, no alternative within Edina has emerged as a viable solution thus
far.
g. Project Continuation and Seasonality
The project is envisioned as a one-time endeavor, designed to enhance field availability, and extend
Pamela field usage during the softball season from April to October, aligning with the sport's seasonal
nature.
2024 LighƟng Request for Pamela Park - EGFA Response to AddiƟonal
QuesƟon Response
Page | 1
1. What do you see as the trends in fastpitch and how that aƯects future growth?
• NaƟonally, parƟcipaƟon is increasing year over year per staƟsta.com
• Edina Fastpitch has experienced an average of 24% increase at our 6U and 8U levels
from 2023 to 2024.
• We are expecƟng this upward trend to conƟnue within the program.
• ConservaƟvely forecasƟng 5% annual growth for spring-summer and fall, but with the
6U to 8U increases, it could be 10% plus growth.
2. What is your current rate of growth (past participation)? What do you project as growth of
your organization in the next 5 years (teams, participants, or expanded
tournaments/services)?
• Over the past 5 years the program has grown from 235 to 429 which is a 65% increase.
• Over the next 3 years we conservaƟvely expect an annual growth of 5%, but as seen on
the spring summer age level chart, there is a significant increase of 6U and 8U that we
expect will conƟnue and drive growth potenƟally 10% plus year over year.
• 2023 to 2024 has remained flat due to age rules with MNSoŌball and kids leaving earlier
to club soŌball
• 2021 was the year aŌer our first COVID season which resulted in a jump up in
parƟcipaƟon.
• 2023 increased due to slow pitch soŌball moving to fastpitch.
2024 LighƟng Request for Pamela Park - EGFA Response to AddiƟonal
QuesƟon Response
Page | 2
3. How would this request aƯect or drive growth potential?
• Improvements to the girls’ faciliƟes will have a posiƟve impact on the overall program
showing the community commitment to girls’ fastpitch soŌball aligning from an equity
standpoint to the boys’ baseball faciliƟes.
4. What are your expanded schedule goals? Are there expectations from organizations you
belong to (MMFL)?
• The goal would be to host games and practices later in the spring to mitigate
conflicts with the HS (and summer), the HS would be able to host the varsity games
later to allow players moving between games (giving players opportunities to be able
to play up) and hosting of games and practices in the fall during the later hours.
• There are no expectations of MNSoftball.
5. How many practices or games have you had to schedule elsewhere due to lack of
availability? Were these lighted facilities or just for availability?
• We don’t have the exact number, but in the typical spring we utilize other fields
during the month of May than Pamela. The rough estimate would be assuming 3
practices/games per night impacted, a 4 day week, 5 weeks, approximately 60
during the spring and for the fall assuming practices and games during September-
early October – over 5 weeks, approximately 60. At a minimum of 120 games or
practices shifted to alternate fields or not held.
6. How many more practices or games would the request provide you? Would these add to
your scheduled field usage, or replace current field usage?
• The primary impact is in the spring and fall – reduces pracƟces/game Ɵme availability by
30-50%
2024 LighƟng Request for Pamela Park - EGFA Response to AddiƟonal
QuesƟon Response
Page | 3
• Pamela availability is limited in spring due to high school using the fields.
• Limited daylight due to startup aŌer high school use does not allow for the
normal doubleheader games and only one team can pracƟce on each field
• Limited daylight in the fall cuts all pracƟces and scrimmages short
• There is an equity issue here too, quality of fields and lighƟng availability between boys
baseball and girls soŌball is not equal
• All resources are located at Pamela (i.e. hiƫng cages, equipment, hiƫng
machines, etc.)
7. Have you identified any additional funding opportunities?
PARKS AND RECREATION TRENDS ANALYSIS
34 | COMMUNITY NEEDS ASSESSMENT
NATIONAL TRENDS IN GENERAL SPORTS
Basketball, a game originating in the U.S., is the most participated in sport among
the traditional “bat and ball” sports with almost 24 million estimated participants.
Popularity can be attributed to the ability to compete with relatively small number of
participants, the limited amount of equipment needed to participate, and the limited
space requirements necessary – the last of which make basketball the only traditional
sport that can be played at the majority of American dwellings as a drive-way pickup
game.
As observed in Figure 6.1, since 2008, squash and other niche sports like lacrosse and
rugby have experienced strong growth. Squash has emerged as the overall fastest
growing sport, as participation levels have increased by nearly 115% over the last
five years. Based on survey findings from 2008-2013, rugby and lacrosse have also
experienced significant growth, increasing by 80.9% and 66% respectively. Other
sports with notable growth in participation over the last five years were field hockey
(31.4%), ice hockey (27.9%), gymnastics (25.1%), and beach volleyball (18.5%). From
2012 to 2013, the fastest growing sports were rugby (33.4%), field hockey (19.2%),
+ 81%
+ 66%
- 45%
+ 115%
2008 2012 2013 12-13 08-13
Baseball 15,539 12,976 13,284 2.4% -14.5%
Basketball 26,108 23,708 23,669 -0.2% -9.3%
Cheerleading 3,192 3,244 3,235 -0.3%1.3%
Field Hockey 1,122 1,237 1,474 19.2% 31.4%
Football, Flag 7,310 5,865 5,610 -4.3%-23.3%
Football, Tackle 7,816 6,220 6,165 -0.9%-21.1%
Football, Touch 10,493 7,295 7,140 -2.1%-32.0%
Gymnastics 3,975 5,115 4,972 -2.8%25.1%
Ice Hockey 1,871 2,363 2,393 1.3% 27.9%
Lacrosse 1,092 1,607 1,813 12.8% 66.0%
Racquetball 4,611 4,070 3,824 -6.0%-17.1%
Roller Hockey 1,569 1,367 1,298 -5.0%-17.3%
Rugby 654 887 1,183 33.4% 80.9%
Soccer (Indoor)4,487 4,617 4,803 4.0% 7.0%
Soccer (Outdoor)13,996 12,944 12,726 -1.7% -9.1%
Softball (Fast Pitch)2,331 2,624 2,498 -4.8%7.2%
Softball (Slow Pitch)9,660 7,411 6,868 -7.3%-28.9%
Squash 659 1,290 1,414 9.6% 114.6%
Tennis 17,749 17,020 17,678 3.9%-0.4%
Track and Field 4,604 4,257 4,071 -4.4%-11.6%
Ultimate Frisbee 4,459 5,131 5,077 -1.1%13.9%
Volleyball (Court)7,588 6,384 6,433 0.8% -15.2%
Volleyball (Sand/Beach)4,025 4,505 4,769 5.9% 18.5%
Wrestling 3,335 1,922 1,829 -4.8%-45.2%
National Participatory Trends - General Sports
NOTE: Participation figures are in 000's for the US population ages 6 and over
Participation Levels % ChangeActivity
Legend:Large Increase
(greater than
Moderate Decrease
(0% to -25%)
Large
Decrease
Figure 6.1 - National Trends in General Sports
Edina Level of Service Standards
PARKS: Anticipated Future Park Development 2014 - 2019
Park Type Edina Inventory Meet Standard/Need Exists Future Amenity Developments Total 2014-2019 Meet Standard/Need Exists
Mini Parks 16.95 0.35 acres per 1,000 0.50 acres per 1,000 Need Exists 7 Acre(s)- - Need Exists 8 Acre(s)
Neighborhood Parks 93.31 1.92 acres per 1,000 1.75 acres per 1,000 Meets Standard - Acre(s)- - Meets Standard - Acre(s)
Community Parks 319.88 6.58 acres per 1,000 7.00 acres per 1,000 Need Exists 21 Acre(s)- - Need Exists 34 Acre(s)
Special-Use Parks 760.36 15.64 acres per 1,000 11.00 acres per 1,000 Meets Standard - Acre(s)- - Meets Standard - Acre(s)
Open Space/Greenway 191.43 3.94 acres per 1,000 4.50 acres per 1,000 Need Exists 27 Acre(s)- - Need Exists 36 Acre(s)
Total Park Acres 1,381.93 28.42 acres per 1,000 24.75 acres per 1,000 Meets Standard - Acre(s)- - Meets Standard - Acre(s)
OUTDOOR AMENITIES:
Picnic Pavilions (Small & Medium)7.00 1.00 site per 6,947 1.00 site per 5,000 Need Exists 3 Sites(s)- - Need Exists 3 Sites(s)
Pavilions (Large & Indoor)3.00 1.00 site per 16,209 1.00 site per 10,000 Need Exists 2 Sites(s)- - Need Exists 2 Sites(s)
Baseball Fields 11.00 1.00 field per 4,421 1.00 field per 4,000 Need Exists 1 Field(s)- - Need Exists 2 Field(s)
Softball Fields 11.00 1.00 field per 4,421 1.00 field per 4,000 Need Exists 1 Field(s)- - Need Exists 2 Field(s)
Multi-Use Field (Soccer/Lacrosse/Football/Rugby) (Youth Size) 12.00 1.00 field per 4,052 1.00 field per 3,500 Need Exists 2 Field(s)- - Need Exists 2 Field(s)
Multi-Use Field (Soccer/Lacrosse/Football/Rugby) (Adult Size) 9.00 1.00 field per 5,403 1.00 field per 3,500 Need Exists 5 Field(s)Fields at Pamela Park 4.00 Need Exists 1 Field(s)
Outdoor Basketball Courts 9.00 1.00 court per 5,403 1.00 court per 4,000 Need Exists 3 Court(s)- - Need Exists 4 Court(s)
Tennis Courts 13.00 1.00 court per 3,740 1.00 court per 4,000 Meets Standard - Court(s)- - Meets Standard - Court(s)
Indoor Ice Sheets 3.00 1.00 site per 16,209 1.00 site per 15,000 Meets Standard - Sites(s)- - Meets Standard - Sites(s)
Outdoor Ice Sheets 23.00 1.00 site per 2,114 1.00 site per 2,500 Meets Standard - Sites(s)- - Meets Standard - Sites(s)
Playgrounds (Youth & Tot)27.00 1.00 site per 1,801 1.00 site per 2,000 Meets Standard - Site(s)- - Meets Standard - Site(s)
Dog Parks 1.00 1.00 site per 48,626 1.00 site per 30,000 Need Exists 1 Site(s)- - Need Exists 1 Site(s)
Volleyball Pit 1.00 1.00 site per 48,626 1.00 site per 20,000 Need Exists 1 Site(s)- - Need Exists 2 Site(s)
Skate Board Area 1.00 1.00 site per 48,626 1.00 site per 40,000 Meets Standard - Site(s)- - Meets Standard - Site(s)
Multi-Use Trails (Miles) 13.82 0.28 miles per 1,000 0.75 miles per 1,000 Need Exists 23 Mile(s)Nine-Mile Creek Trail & Pamela Park Trail 8.95 Need Exists 15 Mile(s)
Community Gardens 1.00 1.00 site per 48,626 1.00 site per 50,000 Meets Standard - Site(s)- - Meets Standard - Site(s)
Disc Golf Courses 1.00 1.00 site per 48,626 1.00 site per 40,000 Meets Standard - Site(s)- - Meets Standard - Site(s)
Outdoor Pools 1.00 1.00 site per 48,626 1.00 site per 40,000 Meets Standard - Sites(s)- - Meets Standard - Sites(s)
INDOOR AMENITIES:
Recreation Centers (Square Feet)42,000.00 0.86 SF per person 2.00 SF per person Need Exists 55,252 Square Feet - - Need Exists 59,008 Square Feet
48,62650,504
Notes:
2014 Estimated Population 2019 Estimated Population
2014 Inventory - Developed Facilities 2014 Facility Standards 2019 Facility Standards
Current Service Level based upon
population
Recommended Service Levels;
Revised for Local Service Area
Additional Facilities/
Amenities Needed
Additional Facilities/
Amenities Needed
Figure 7.1 - Level of Service Standards (LOS)
LEVEL OF SERVICE STANDARDS
The consultant team evaluated park facility standards using a combination of resources. This information allowed standards to be customized to the City of Edina. Figure 7.1 shows the Level of Service Analysis for Edina. The first
column is the park type or amenity being analyzed. The second column is a current total inventory system-wide for that park or amenity. The 2014 estimated population of Edina is then used to calculate the current service level or
“units per population”. The first set of lime columns show the recommended level of service for Edina. This is created based upon National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) guidelines, recreation activity participation rates
reported by the Sports & Fitness Industry Association’s (SFIA) 2014 Study of Sports, Fitness, and Leisure Participation as it applies to activities that occur in the United States and in the Edina area, community and stakeholder input,
the 2014 Community Needs Assessment Survey and the planning team’s observations. The 2014 Facility Standards show where need might exist based off of current population estimates and current inventory, while the 2019 Facility
Standards show where need might exist based off of 2019 population estimates, current inventory, and the addition of anticipated future park developments. As one can see there are many needs to be met in the present and future. The
standards outlined are not aggressive, but are conservative.
When looking at needs, the design team focused on the 2019 projections. These projections allowed for planning suggestions to be made that would allow time for implementation. The following park amenities were shown to have
needs that exist:
LEVEL OF SERVICE
184 | CITY OF EDINA
BASEBALL/SOFTBALL FIELDS - The LOS projections show a need for two
additional baseball fields and two softball fields in Edina. However, the need was not
correlated in the community survey and was ranked very low in overall priorities. It
is recommended that the current baseball and softball fields should be maintained, and
the addition of more baseball and softball fields should be put on hold and revisited as
the need is expressed by the community. Figure 7.3 shows all EPRD baseball/softball
fields and other non-EPRD baseball/softball fields.
City of Edina
Baseball & Softball Fields
5-Minute Walk
10-Minute Walk
WILLIAMSPARK
WOODDALE PARK
UTLEY PARK
BROWNDALE PARK
TODDPARK
HIGHLANDSPARK
GARDENPARK MELODY LAKEPARK
ARDEN PARK
PAMELA PARK
STRACHAUER PARK
ROSLANDPARK
ARNESONACRES
FRED RICHARDS PARK
CENTENNIAL LAKES
EDINBOROUGHPARK
YORKTOWNPARK
EDINA PROMENDADE
LEWIS PARK
MCQUIRE PARK
HEIGHTS PARK
NORMANDALE PARK
BRAEMARGOLF COURSE
CREEK VALLEY PARK
BREDESEN PARK
WALNUT RIDGE PARK
FOX MEADOW PARK
VAN VALKENBURG PARK
COUNTRYSIDEPARK
BIRCHCREST PARK
TINGDALE PARK ST. JOHNS PARK
CHOWEN-PARK
YORKPARK
GRANDVIEW SQUARE
FRANK TUPAPARK
SHERWOODPARK
KOJETINPARK
WEBER FIELDPARK
ALDEN PARK
BRAEMARPARK
ORNELIA SCHOOL PARK
Softball Field
(non EPRD)
Baseball Field(non EPRD)
Good
Fair
Poor
Baseball Field Softball Field
EDINA COMMUNITY CENTER & SOUTH VIEW MIDDLE
EDINA HIGH SCHOOL & VALLEY VIEW MIDDLE SCHOOL
Figure 7.3 - Baseball and Softball fields map
PARKS, RECREATION & TRAILS STRATEGIC PLAN | A-7
APPENDIX A
PARKS, OPEN SPACE & TRAILS
Our vision for parks, open spaces, and trails is to ensure parks are a source of
community pride by providing a balance of active and passive spaces that
are well connected and reflect high quality design principles and maintenance
standards; allowing all residents to engage in healthy activities.
PARKS GOAL 1- PROMOTE CONNECTIONS TO THE PARK SYSTEM WITHIN THE CITY, AND TO THE
SURROUNDING REGION
STRATEGY 1.1
Prioritize the development and implementation of a multi-use trail network that connects parks and facilities together,
and connects to key destinations throughout the City.
Tactic Implementation
Year Performance Measure
1.1.1 Achieve a .75 miles per 1,000 people goal for hard
surface trails to connect neighborhoods, major attractions
(historical and cultural), and community parks via trails.
2016-2026
Add 15 additional miles of
trail to meet 2019 population
projections (in addition to Nine
Mile Creek trail).
1.1.2 Coordinate with Engineering to seek funding to support
developing a system of on street shared lanes, separated
bike lanes, and off-street hard surface trails connecting to
parks. Prioritize off-street trails and separate bike lanes.
Ongoing Dollars committed in the 2016
budget to trail implementation.
1.1.3 Coordinate with Engineering Department
and collaborate with other Community programs
including Bike Edina, Edina Living Streets
program, Active Routes to Schools, Sidewalk
Priority Plan, and Capital Improvement Plan.
Ongoing
Identify shovel ready projects
and commit dollars in the 2018
budget
1.1.4 Provide facilities to support existing trails and the
new Nine Mile Creek Regional trail e.g. - restrooms, drinking
fountains, and appropriate waste/ recycling facilities.
2020
Identify facility needs and
incorporate into capital
improvements plan.
1.1.5 Provide facilities in parks to fully supported
bicycle use including adequate bike parking and racks,
bicycle library, covered parking, tandem bikes for senior,
bike trailers for families, and repair stands, etc...
2020 Identify shovel ready projects
and commit dollars to 2020.
A-8 | CITY OF EDINA
APPENDIX A
STRATEGY 1.3
Market parks and programs throughout the city to inform residents of offerings.
Tactic Implementation
Year Performance Measure
1.3.1 Dedicate communications staff to EPRD efforts. 2016 Dedicate communications
staff for.
1.3.2 Present this Strategic Plan across departments and
community groups that may be unfamiliar with it to build
connections.
2015 Presentations to non-
traditional groups.
1.3.3 Create and implement a naming policy for parks and
future facilities.2016 Integrate into Parks plan by
2017.
PARKS GOAL 2 - ENSURE EXCELLENCE AND EQUITABLE ACCESS TO PARKS FOR ALL RESIDENTS.
STRATEGY 2.1
Pursue Commission for Accreditation of Park and Recreation Agencies (CAPRA) Accreditation and strive for Gold
Medal Recognition.
Tactic Implementation
Year Performance Measure
2.1.1 Research CAPRA requirements, highlight where EPRD
has gaps, and develop plan to achieve requirements.2017 Apply and achieve CAPRA
accreditation.
2.1.2 Apply for Gold Medal Award.2020 Receive Gold Medal Award
recognition.
STRATEGY 1.2
Develop, refine, and implement the branding, signage, and wayfinding plan included in this strategic plan.
Tactic Implementation
Year Performance Measure
1.2.1 Create a comprehensive branding, signage and
wayfinding plan for all EPRD properties and programs.2016 Dedicated funding for
completing branding plan.
1.2.2 Coordinate with other departments and incorporate
branding throughout City materials. 2017 Update websites, implement
first installation project(s).
1.2.3 Replace park signage with updated branding.2016+Replace signage with phased
approach.
PARKS, RECREATION & TRAILS STRATEGIC PLAN | A-9
APPENDIX A
STRATEGY 2.2
Match development and redevelopment of park system and maintenance facilities to population growth and
demographics changes.
Tactic Implementation
Year Performance Measure
2.2.1 Transition under utilized amenities and replace with
more productive amenities that are tied to neighborhood
needs (Reference Edina Level of Service Standards file).
2025
Updated Park Master Plans
remove outdated amenities as
part of lifecycle management
plan every year for the next
five years.
2.2.2 Refer to included facility assessments and inventories
to identify key facilities such as restrooms, drinking fountains,
signage, parking, and other comfort and convenience
features in need of replacement, and develop a plan to
replace deficient infrastructure not meeting Park System
standards.
2018
Identify deficient infrastructure
and create implementation/
replacement plan.
2.2.3 Establish and utilize a Furniture, Fixture, and
Equipment (FFE) standard and inventory for park and
recreation amenities, (e.g. basketball hoops, outdoor lighting,
outdoor benches, etc.) parts inventories, and enhanced
maintenance efficiency.
2018 Established FFE standards
plan.
A-10 | CITY OF EDINA
APPENDIX A
PARKS GOAL 3 - INCREASE THE HEALTH AND SAFETY OF THE PARKS AND TRAIL SYSTEM.
STRATEGY 3.1
Update all parks and trails to 2010 Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Standards for Accessible Design.
Tactic Implementation
Year Performance Measure
3.1.1 Complete inventory and assessment of all park infra-
structure regarding 2010 ADA standards.2020 New facilities meet or exceed
standard. Integrate into RFP.
3.1.1 Require all new infrastructure to meet 2010 ADA
standards 2025 New facilities meet or exceed
standard. Integrate into RFP.
3.1.2 Upgrade existing facilities not meeting ADA standard 2025 5 - year plan to prioritize and
implement updates.
STRATEGY 3.2
Ensure safety throughout the park system.
Tactic Implementation
Year Performance Measure
3.2.1 Incorporate Crime Prevention through Environmental
Design (CPED) principles and guidelines into parks and
recreation site design and ongoing maintenance practices.
2017
Integrate requirement into
RFPs for new facilities and
renovations. Consider
hiring consultant to evaluate
existing facilities and make
recommendations.
PARKS, RECREATION & TRAILS STRATEGIC PLAN | A-11
APPENDIX A
PARKS GOAL 4 - REVITALIZE EXISTING PARKS BY ALIGNING PARK, OPEN SPACE, AND TRAIL
INFRASTRUCTURE WITH CURRENT AND ANTICIPATED COMMUNITY NEEDS.
STRATEGY 4.1
Design flexibility into outdoor spaces and athletic fields to meet current needs and readily adapt to future recreation
trends.
Tactic Implementation
Year Performance Measure
4.1.1 Consult Level of Service study to identify gaps and
recommendations.2016 3 Multi-use fields identified as
a need by 2019.
4.1.2 Consider alternative surfaces for high use areas (e.g.
artificial turf, high performance turf, etc.)2020
Long term cost benefit
analysis of capital and
maintenance costs.
4.1.3 Ensure adequate lighting to extend playability times
throughout the year and in morning/ early evening times.2020 Utilize facility analysis to
identify lightinig issues.
4.1.4 Prioritize flexibility and community gathering spaces in
future master plans and renovation projects.Ongoing
Integrate goals and/ or
requirements into RFPs for
future park master plans.
STRATEGY 4.2
Provide specialized park infrastructure to address under served needs, emerging trends, and support year round uses.
Tactic Implementation
Year Performance Measure
4.2.1 Prioritize projects to increase the Level of Service (LOS)
in areas where data shows the highest need.Ongoing
Seek funding for new or
renovated park and recreation
facilities and properties based
on LOS.
4.2.2 Provide infrastructure to support winter uses and trails
into existing parks for a variety of skills and mobility uses that
will bring more residents to parks in winter months.
2020 Integrate winter uses into all
parks and trails plans.
4.2.3 Emphasize year round opportunities at Braemar Park
to cross pollinate with existing activities. Explore mountain
biking trails, snow making for ski trails, biathlon training
infrastructure, and additional winter uses.
2017
Increase marketing of Braemar
Park winter trail and include
winter trail planning in
Braemar Park Master Plan.
4.2.4 Require community driven master plans and/ or public
input process for all projects with greater than $250,000
improvements.
2017 Complete a community driven
master plan for Fred Richards.
4.2.5 Evaluate current and future needs and locations for
Community Gardens. Consider sites near apartments/ condos
and higher density areas with limited access to usable
planting space - where needs may be greater.
2020 Evaluate community garden
use and community desire.
Pamela Park Softball Field
Lighting Project Request
Edina Girls Fastpitch Association, 5/13/2024
Agenda
•Request Info
•Community Demand and Justification
•Edina Softball Trends
•Annual growth
•Age level growth
•View of Park Differences
•Edina Field Comparisons
•Yancey – Yancey and Courtney – Pamela
•What’s Next /Future
•Appendix
•Impact of Non-support, Site, Resources, Alternates, Expected Benefits
Community Demand
o Objective:Introduce lighting infrastructure at Pamela Park on Fields 1,2,and 3
and enhance user experience
o Pamela Park serves as the home field for the Edina Girls High School Softball Teams and the Edina Girls Fastpitch Association (EGFA)
o Approximately 250-300 girls/young women from Edina participate in the
softball programs annually
o This number grows significantly with neighboring community kids play softball at Pamela
o Age groups range from 6U to 12U, along with three high school level teams:
the “B Team,” “JV Team,” and “Varsity Team”
Justifications
o The Girls Deserve Equivalent Facilities – Begin to align resources at Pamela
with the boys’ baseball program at Courtney, Yancey and Countryside fields
o Accommodate an expanded schedule of home softball games and practices
during the April – October season
o Minimally increase Pamela usage by 120 games / practices each year
(30% - 50% more use)
o Allow girls softball players to participate in night games/practices, reducing
scheduling conflicts
o Edina Softball is committed to proactively finding funding (i.e. Twins grants,
tournaments, other)
Edina Softball 2020-2027 Trends
o Over the past 5 years the program has grown from 235 to 389 which is a 60% increase
o Next 3 years we conservatively expect annual growth of 5%
o Significant increase of 6U and 8U occurring
o 2023 to 2024 has remained flat due to age rule changes
and kids leaving earlier to club softball
o 2021 was the year after first COVID season which resulted in a jump in participation
o 2023 increased due to slow pitch softball moving to
fastpitch
125
163
171
288
279
286
298
313
110
129
110
100
110
105
111
116
2020
2021
2022
2023
2024
Forecast
2025
2026
2027
FallSpring/Summer
235
292
281
388
389
391
409
429
2020-2024 Age Level by Season Trends
•2020 was Covid year – truncated season
•6U program started in 2023
•Spring/Summer seasons, there is a significant increase of 6U and 8U starting in 2023 which we expect to continue and drive higher growth (10% plus year over year) than forecasted
•10U and 12U expected to increase with
observed increases of 6U and 8U
•Fall season have been lower due to competing sports, but expectation is higher growth due to participation increases
28 41 36 53 72414049
76
88
42 36 35
71
45
14 11 11
43 26
35 40
45 48
2020 2021 2022 2023 2024
125
163 171
288 279
6U
8U
10U
12U
14U
HS
20 22 29 23 24
26
57 33 42 40
38
36
40 35 37
26
14
8
2020 2021 2022
0
2023
0
2024 Forecast
110
129
110
100 101
8U
10U
12U
14U
Spring/Summer Seasons Fall Seasons
Edina Field Comparisons
•Dedicated fields for baseball
•Baseball fields are newer, modernized and fully maintained
•New updated lights at Courtney
•Lights available for softball are on fields with limited availability due to adult leagues and are not regulation fences
Notes:* Adult Fields (250” fences)** Marked for baseball only
Park/Fields Use Count
Covered
Dugouts
Level of
Maintenance Fences Lights
Safety
Nets for
Fans
Concessions Batting
Cages
Pamela Park 1 & 3 Dual 2 2 Medium Yes No No No Yes - 4
Pamela Park 2 Dual 1 1 Medium No No No No NA
Yancey Park Dual 1 0 Low No No No No Yes – 3
Weber Park Dual 2 2 Medium No No No No No
Ryan Dual 1 0 Low No No No No No
Braemar/Courtney Baseball only 4 4 High (Pristine) Yes
Yes
(New)Yes (New) Yes (Dedicated) Yes - 6
Yancey Baseball only 1 1 High (Pristine) Yes No Yes No No
Countryside Baseball only 2 2 High Yes No No No No
Cornelia Baseball only 1 1 Medium Yes No No No No
Rosalyn Dual 1 0 Medium No No No No No
Van Valkenburg Dual * 3 3 High Yes Yes Yes (Torn) Yes (Shared) No
ECC Turf Dual ** 1 0 NA No No No No No
High Lower Field Turf Dual ** 1 0 NA No No No No No
Pamela Turf Soccer Only 0 0 NA No Yes No No No
Yancy Baseball Field
Scoreboard
Large Batting Cages
Premier dugouts with protective
covers, bat hangers, storage,
etc.
Yancey Dual Use Field
Girls Softball Field, No:
•Dugouts
•Outfield fences
•Scoreboard
•Batting Cages
•Bullpen
•Fan safety netting
•Storage area
•Etc.
Courtney Baseball Fields
Scoreboard
Large Batting Cages
•Call Outs:
•High School boys home
fields
•All fields with brand new
lights
•Fan netting
•All fields fenced
•Beautifully maintained
field
•Brick enclosed/covered
dugouts and fully
equipped
•6 batting cages
Pamela Dual Use Fields
Call Outs:
•High School Girls home fields
•No Lights on fields (hockey
rink and turf field have lights)
•Medium Maintenance
•Scoreboards on F #1 and #3
•No fan netting
•Covered dugouts, but fenced
only
•No concessions
Field #1 Field #3
Field #2
Batting Cages
What’s Next / Future
•Move forward with Pamela Lighting Project
•Modernize Pamela
•New dugouts
•Updated scoreboards for all fields
•Consider turf options for varsity field
•Fan security netting, Etc.
•Modernize Yancey
•New dugouts, turf infield, outfield fence, scoreboards, field leveling, fan security netting, etc.
•Van Valkenburg
•New temp fences or convert field to girls softball only
Thank you
Mike Ganley, VP of Edina Girls Fastpitch Association
612-240-8626
mganley@comcast.net
Appendix
Impact of Non-
Suppor t
o Without support, equity and constraints for girls in
the softball programs persist due to limited daylight
access to the Pamela fields
o Ongoing resource gaps between girls’ softball and
boys’ baseball programs hinder gender equity efforts
o Continued gap with neighboring communities with
superior softball facilities (i.e. Minnetonka, Wayzata,
Bloomington, SLP, EP, Etc.)
Site, Resources, Alternates, Etc.
o Recommended Site:
o Proposed site: Pamela Park fields 1, 2, and 3
o Financial Resources:
o Primary funding source: City of Edina
o Community commitment underscores project significance and urgency
o Considered Alternatives:
o Initial exploration included expanding usage at Van Valkenburg fields
o Van Valkenburg could be transitioned to Girls Softball only rather than Adult leagues 3-4 days a week in the spring summer (as in the past)
o Challenges:
o Competition with other programs, scheduling conflicts, and unsuitable fencing
o Other options considered, but not viable - modifying Courtney fields to dual use, leveraging lighted community turf fields, or Lewis Park fields
o Project Continuation and Seasonality:
o One-time endeavor to enhance field availability
o Extends Pamela field usage during softball seasons (April to October)
Expected Benefits
o Improvements to the girls’ facilities will positively impact on the overall program showing the community commitment to girls’ fastpitch softball, aligning from an equity standpoint to the boys’ baseball facilities
o Aligns with Edina’s 20-year Park System Strategic Plan:
o Evaluate current facilities and programs to meet citizens’ recreation and leisure needs
o Guiding Principles: Excellence, innovation, social equity, and community engagement
o Lights will optimize Pamela Park’s usage by expanding availability for softball activities
o Begin to addresses resource imbalance between girls’ softball and boys’ baseball
o Enhances Pamela Park’s facilities to match neighboring communities
Date: May 13, 2024 Agenda Item #: VII.B.
To:Parks and Recreation Commission Item Type:
Report and Recommendation
From:Perry Vetter, Parks & Recreation Director
Item Activity:
Subject:Edina Baseball Association Special Project Request:
Countryside Baseball Field Upgrades
Discussion
CITY OF EDINA
4801 West 50th Street
Edina, MN 55424
www.edinamn.gov
ACTION REQUESTED:
The goal of adopting a special project request process is to allow residents to bring forth ideas about amenities to
expand offerings in the park system. T hese requests are meant to be informal and used as a beginning point of
dialogue, saving the requestor, staff and the commission from having to develop a detailed analysis for the project
at the introductory stage.
Community and project engagement will need to be determined and the approval process defined. Impacts to
park users and neighborhood will need to be further studied and engaged. Engagement could range from inform
to empower. This request starts the formal process. Staff is requesting feedback from the commission regarding
the Countryside Field upgrades proposal from the association to gauge interest. Taking into account commission
feedback, staff would like approval on desired next steps.
INTRODUCTION:
Edina Baseball Association (EBA) has submitted a special project proposal for diamond fields upgrades to fields 1
and 2 at Countryside Park and has been invited to the May 13th meeting to introduce their request. T he
association, represented by Board Member Shawn Travis has prepared a proposal that addresses questions from
the community member portion of our special projects request policy.
ATTACHMENTS:
Description
Staff Report
EBA Request and Supplemental Information
EBA - Turf Solutions Group
May 13, 2024
Parks & Recreation Commission
Perry Vetter, Parks & Recreation Director
Edina Baseball Association Special Project Request: Countryside Baseball Field Upgrades
Information / Background:
Edina Baseball Association (EBA) has submitted a special project proposal for diamond fields upgrades to
fields 1 and 2 at Countryside Park and has been invited to the May 13th meeting to introduce their request.
The association, represented by Board Member Shawn Travis has prepared a proposal that addresses
questions from the community member portion of our special projects request policy.
Edina Baseball Association is the primary user for Fields 1 and 2 at Countryside Park. Both fields have
amenities such as dugouts and fencing. The applicants request and proposal outlines their association’s
identified needs and justifications. The request includes replacing natural grass and turf infields with
synthetic turf, replacing and extending backstops, and new scoreboards. The request also is a consideration
on lighting the fields at a future date if EBA can secure funding. They will provide background and
information on their organization, participants, and projected growth.
Countryside Park is in the northwest quadrant of Edina, in a neighborhood bearing the same name. This
park is classified as a neighborhood park at 11.6 acres. Developed in the 1960’s, this active park includes a
playground, tennis courts, basketball court, lighted hockey and open skate rink, flex use field, and a shelter
building with security and wayfinding lighting.
Staff Analysis:
When reviewing this proposal, staff identified several factors that are impacted.
Neighborhood and Community Interest and Benefits:
In 2016, based off Edina’s population size and recreational trends, our strategic plan identified the need for 2
baseball and 2 softball fields. When the community survey was conducted, however, this need ranked very
low in overall priority so no action was requested. The addition of more baseball and softball fields was put
STAFF REPORT Page 2
on hold until the community expressed need. This request supports a community expressed need for field
space.
Edina Parks and Recreation Department programs and maintains 44 Parks, and over 1,562 acres of open
spaces in Edina. There are 56 City owned fields, 26 can be reserved and are maintained as baseball and
softball fields. Youth baseball has access to 14 fields, 7 with fencing and 4 with lighting. Youth softball has use
of 9 diamond fields with 5 game ready, 2 with fencing, and none with lighting. Adult softball has 3 lighted
fields at Van Valkenburg Park. Pamela Park and Braemar Field both have synthetic turf fields for rectangular
field sports and both are lighted.
Upgrades requested support Edina’s budget pillars of Strong Foundation and Reliable Service. The project
and organization promote Edina’s budget values of Stewardship, Health, and Sustainability.
Funding:
EBA has proposed funding these project components. Their funding would come from donations and
sponsorship opportunities. Estimates and costs for this scope of work would need to be finalized, however
the field improvements are projected to be near $450,000, not including a future lighting phase. EBA has
indicated that there would not be a cost to the City of Edina and therefore operating and capital budget
timelines do not apply at this phase.
If City of Edina financial resources were requested the City functions on a bi-annual budget process. In odd
year’s the City Council approves a two-year operating budget. For example, in 2023 an operating budget
was proposed and approved for the fiscal years 2024 and 2025. In even year’s the City Council approves a
six-year capital budget. For example, in 2024 a capital budget will be proposed this year and approved for
the fiscal years 2025-2030. This project request would be considered a Capital Improvement Project (CIP)
request. The CIP process would require the request to be reviewed and selected by committee, city
manager, and then receive City Council approval. As part of the 2023 Commission Work Plan Initiative on
alternative funding opportunities, over $2M in unfunded projects and $5.5M in horizon unfunded projects
were highlighted for Athletic Association Improvements. The Capital Improvement Program for 2023-2028
identified over $35M in unfunded and unscheduled park projects. Annually, $2M is appropriated for all
capital improvements, not just park requests, city wide for all departments. The lack of available funding is
not a reflection of the merits of the proposed activity.
Project components are not on existing or future CIPs. Fencing has been rated in good condition and a
replacement timeline is not scheduled. Countryside Park is rated in great condition and has minimal
deferred maintenance.
EBA has proposed funding these projects with sponsorship opportunities that would need to fall within city
requirements for signage and advertisement. More information would be needed and permitting required
for the addition of the scoreboard and any potential sponsorship signage.
STAFF REPORT Page 3
EBA has also proposed the use of facilities for tournaments which would have an impact on revenue
generated from field usage. They have not implied an increase in use but instead a more reliable usage with
minimal impacts for weather delays or rescheduling.
EBA has completed donations in the past to upgrade field components. In 2018, EBA donated $100,000
matching funds and was awarded the Hennepin Youth Sports Grant to upgrade the lighting on Field 1 at
Courtney Fields.
Location.
The proposal provided indicates Countryside Park fields 1 and 2 as the requested location for the special
project request. This site was requested by community members as the project location. Countryside Park
is city owned property and no additional land purchase would be needed for the project. The requested
upgrades would not directly displace any existing recreational programming but would enhance user
experience, playability, and reliability for the fields.
The frequency of usage would not increase for this project, so traffic and volume potentially remains the
same. The larger impact would be the seasonal duration impact. This project would increase usage in
March, April, and May, as well as September, October, and November. The effect on noise is similar, not
increasing in volume but increasing in duration during spring and fall when vegetative buffer is not present.
The primary impact of this project on the neighborhood would be visual. Countryside Park is neighbored by
13 single family residents as well as multifamily housing. Adjacent neighbors as well as area neighbors could
have impacts to their views and sightlines.
Though this request is specific to EBA and Countryside Park, field upgrades, fencing upgrades, and
scoreboards have been upgraded or added for numerous locations and association uses including multi-use
fields and high school home fields. Strategy 4.1 of Parks, Recreation, and Trails strategic plan identifies a goal
to “Design flexibility into outdoor spaces and athletic fields to meet current needs and ready adapt to future
recreation trends”. The upgrades identified would upgrade user experience and increase reliability of play
surfaces. Additional entities may have similar needs and future requests are possible.
If EBA wishes to purse lighting at a later date, additional impacts would be noted on surrounding properties.
Even with a high-quality lighting system which minimizes light trespass and glare, there is a possibility
surrounding neighbors may be impacted by light placement and views from their property. Field lighting has
made significant improvements in minimalization of these impacts, however there is still potential for impact.
Staff would recommend a photometric study be done to show the light level impacts that project would
bring. This has different levels of impacts to these neighbors near Olinger Blvd., Tracy Ave. and Hillside Rd.
Increased sunset programming would potentially impact traffic and noise at Countryside Park. Hours of use
are limited to park hours. New control systems also allow for lights to be scheduled, monitored, and
controlled remotely by staff. Parking for diamond fields is off Olinger Blvd. and Colonial Way by the shelter
building.
Staff has not yet examined any detailed liability or other required factors associated with this request. An
engagement and site selection process are not in place for sports lighting requests. Street lighting
STAFF REPORT Page 4
request/petitions have been granted through an established process which includes impacted resident
approvals.
Next steps
The goal of adopting a special project request process is to allow residents to bring forth ideas about
amenities to expand offerings in the park system. These requests are meant to be informal and used as a
beginning point of dialogue, saving the requestor, staff and the commission from having to develop a detailed
analysis for the project at the introductory stage.
Community and project engagement will need to be determined and the approval process defined. Impacts
to park users and neighborhood will need to be further studied and engaged. Engagement could range from
inform to empower. This request starts the formal process.
Staff is requesting feedback from the commission regarding the Countryside Field upgrades proposal from
the association to gauge interest. Taking into account commission feedback, staff would like approval on
desired next steps. Those next steps for this project would include some or all of the following:
• Impacts and Code Review Study: signage requirements, visual impacts, photometrics, traffic
• Detailed Costing Analysis: infrastructure costs and any funding deficiency review
• Community Engagement Plan: Inform, Consult, Involve, Collaborate, or Empower that would include
at a minimum a Better Together Edina project page and a community meeting where EBA presents
their proposal.
• PARC Review and Recommend: Review next step materials and information.
• City Council Review and Authorization: Staff report and Commission recommendations
Appendix:
EBA Special Project Request (Community Member Submission)
Supplemental Reference Materials
Edina Baseball Association – Countryside Park Special Project Proposals
I.Please give a brief overview of your proposal.
1.EBA would like to transition from natural grass and dirt infields to artificial turf; this is a
significant upgrade that brings numerous benefits. Artificial turf provides a consistent
playing surface regardless of weather conditions, reducing the impact of rain and
improving playability. It also requires less maintenance, saving time and resources in the
long run. This change will enhance the quality of play and ensure that games and
practices can proceed without delays caused by poor field conditions.
2.Extending and replacing the backstops at both fields is a practical solution to help keep
foul balls within the field of play. This not only improves safety for players and
spectators but also minimizes interruptions during games caused by retrieving stray
balls. It demonstrates a commitment to creating a safer and more efficient playing
environment for everyone involved.
3.Installing two new scoreboards at each of the Countryside fields adds another layer of
professionalism and functionality to the facilities. Scoreboards are essential for keeping
track of game progress, inning, score, and other important information. They enhance
the overall game experience for players, coaches, and spectators, creating a more
immersive and enjoyable atmosphere.
4.EBA would like to discuss the ability to add lighting on these two fields and has also
researched cost. This would not be a cost to the City if EBA can secure funding at a
later date.
Overall, these proposed upgrades align with the EBA's goal of providing high-quality facilities and
experiences for its players. They demonstrate a proactive approach to addressing challenges and
improving the overall infrastructure of the organization. By investing in these enhancements, the EBA is
positioning itself for continued growth and success in the future.
a.What is the community or neighborhood demand for the project?
Expanding the EBA programming to accommodate the increasing number of younger players. Having
two additional game-ready fields would indeed alleviate the pressure caused by weather constraints and
provide more opportunities for practice and games, benefiting both players and coaches.
Installing scoreboards on these new fields would enhance the game experience and add a professional
touch to the facilities. It would also facilitate better organization during matches and make it easier for
players, coaches, and spectators to track the game progress.
With these improvements in place, Courtney field workload during the season could be significantly
reduced, allowing for more games and practice. Additionally, having more quality fields available would
likely give the EBA more options for hosting tournaments and continued growth in the program. It
would also create an additional must-see facility that would compete with neighboring baseball
associations.
It could also allow us as a community to keep more of our current families in the EBA association
instead of having to look elsewhere for baseball opportunities at younger ages. This builds our
community as a whole and strengthens our baseball program all the way up to the varsity level.
What is the impact on the community for not supporting the project?
It's understandable that community support is crucial for any project like the proposed upgrades to the
Countryside baseball fields. If there's resistance or lack of support from the community, it could indeed
pose challenges for the EBA, potentially leading to difficult decisions such as reducing the number of
teams at the younger age level.
Reducing the number of teams could have unintended consequences, such as discouraging young players
from participating in baseball altogether, sending them to other cities to play or seeking alternative
sports options.
What are the expected benefits derived from the project?
This investment in youth sports and supporting young baseball athletes sends a powerful message to the
community. It demonstrates a commitment to the well-being and development of local youth,
emphasizing the importance of physical activity, teamwork, and personal growth through sports.
By upgrading the baseball facilities and maintaining a high standard of quality, the EBA showcases its
dedication to providing the best possible experience for young athletes. This investment not only
benefits current players but also attracts future generations of baseball enthusiasts, ensuring the long-
term sustainability and success of the organization. Currently other baseball organizations such as
Hopkins and St. Louis Park offers many options for younger players and they continue to see growth at
those younger levels. We need to bring those Edina players home and not supporting this project will
continue to drive some players away, weakening our program. Every Edina kid that wants to play
baseball should be able to play baseball for Edina, not another school district. This is a big step in solving
that problem.
Furthermore, investing in youth sports contributes to the overall health and vitality of the community. It
provides opportunities for children and teenagers to stay active, learn valuable life skills, and build
friendships that can last a lifetime. Additionally, well-maintained sports facilities can become community
hubs, bringing people together for games, events, and social gatherings. This facility will be enjoyed by
everyone, not just the baseball athletes. This also adds a nice project highlight and improvement for the
Edina Parks and Recreation commission to be proud of and promote.
b. Has a specific site been recommended?
Countryside LL and Prep fields
c. What financial resources are available in the community to fund the project? How
secure are these resources and can the needed funding be sustained?
EBA has planned to invest a large portion of the needed funds to secure the completion of this project.
Utilizing donations from the baseball community and seeking sponsorship opportunities from local
businesses will help us finish the needed funding. Offering sponsorship opportunities such as scoreboard
advertising, windscreen banners, and turf business advertisements not only provides businesses with
valuable exposure but also fosters a sense of partnership and investment in the local baseball
community. It's a win-win situation where businesses can gain visibility while supporting a worthy cause,
and the EBA can secure the funding needed for the improvements.
EBA is engaging current sponsorship board members to reach out to local businesses, as they likely have
existing relationships and networks that can be leveraged to garner support. The EBA is confident that
businesses and individuals will jump at the opportunity to support the building of a state of the art facility
that grows Edina for the good. Their involvement adds credibility and momentum to the fundraising
efforts, increasing the likelihood of success. EBA is prepared to if needed, remove the signage after the
end of each season and install again next season. April-Sept.
EBA will fully fund this project and no City funds needed. We have done preliminary costing for all three
projects to be completed for just under $450,000. EBA does not need to fund raise to start or
complete this project. EBA has funds to complete without. EBA is prepared to if needed, remove the
signage after the end of each season and install again next season. April-Sept.
d. What alternatives have been considered?
EBA has identified the best two field options for investing in improvements. EBA looked at other fields
options such as Courtney but that complex doesn't need that type of makeover. It would also be much
more costly to invest those types of improvements at Courtney fields (roughly 2 or 3 times as
expensive). Thus that is why we determined Countryside was the best option.
e. Is this project expected to continue or is it a one-time request? Is this project seasonal
in nature or a year-round operation? Which seasons?
This project is expected to be a one-time request. We have done research on an infield turf field and
we expect to get a 10-15 year life span with minimal yearly cost. This will also reduce the city’s cost of
maintaining these fields on a yearly basis. Artificial turf requires less maintenance and over time will save
many resources. This would allow EBA and the city to use these new fields much longer then the time
length they are currently used. Right now it's roughly May thru September. We are potentially looking
at a March thru December usage.
Revised Master Plan
PARKS AND RECREATION TRENDS ANALYSIS
34 | COMMUNITY NEEDS ASSESSMENT
NATIONAL TRENDS IN GENERAL SPORTS
Basketball, a game originating in the U.S., is the most participated in sport among
the traditional “bat and ball” sports with almost 24 million estimated participants.
Popularity can be attributed to the ability to compete with relatively small number of
participants, the limited amount of equipment needed to participate, and the limited
space requirements necessary – the last of which make basketball the only traditional
sport that can be played at the majority of American dwellings as a drive-way pickup
game.
As observed in Figure 6.1, since 2008, squash and other niche sports like lacrosse and
rugby have experienced strong growth. Squash has emerged as the overall fastest
growing sport, as participation levels have increased by nearly 115% over the last
five years. Based on survey findings from 2008-2013, rugby and lacrosse have also
experienced significant growth, increasing by 80.9% and 66% respectively. Other
sports with notable growth in participation over the last five years were field hockey
(31.4%), ice hockey (27.9%), gymnastics (25.1%), and beach volleyball (18.5%). From
2012 to 2013, the fastest growing sports were rugby (33.4%), field hockey (19.2%),
+ 81%
+ 66%
- 45%
+ 115%
2008 2012 2013 12-13 08-13
Baseball 15,539 12,976 13,284 2.4% -14.5%
Basketball 26,108 23,708 23,669 -0.2% -9.3%
Cheerleading 3,192 3,244 3,235 -0.3%1.3%
Field Hockey 1,122 1,237 1,474 19.2% 31.4%
Football, Flag 7,310 5,865 5,610 -4.3%-23.3%
Football, Tackle 7,816 6,220 6,165 -0.9%-21.1%
Football, Touch 10,493 7,295 7,140 -2.1%-32.0%
Gymnastics 3,975 5,115 4,972 -2.8%25.1%
Ice Hockey 1,871 2,363 2,393 1.3% 27.9%
Lacrosse 1,092 1,607 1,813 12.8% 66.0%
Racquetball 4,611 4,070 3,824 -6.0%-17.1%
Roller Hockey 1,569 1,367 1,298 -5.0%-17.3%
Rugby 654 887 1,183 33.4% 80.9%
Soccer (Indoor)4,487 4,617 4,803 4.0% 7.0%
Soccer (Outdoor)13,996 12,944 12,726 -1.7% -9.1%
Softball (Fast Pitch)2,331 2,624 2,498 -4.8%7.2%
Softball (Slow Pitch)9,660 7,411 6,868 -7.3%-28.9%
Squash 659 1,290 1,414 9.6% 114.6%
Tennis 17,749 17,020 17,678 3.9%-0.4%
Track and Field 4,604 4,257 4,071 -4.4%-11.6%
Ultimate Frisbee 4,459 5,131 5,077 -1.1%13.9%
Volleyball (Court)7,588 6,384 6,433 0.8% -15.2%
Volleyball (Sand/Beach)4,025 4,505 4,769 5.9% 18.5%
Wrestling 3,335 1,922 1,829 -4.8%-45.2%
National Participatory Trends - General Sports
NOTE: Participation figures are in 000's for the US population ages 6 and over
Participation Levels % ChangeActivity
Legend:Large Increase
(greater than
Moderate Decrease
(0% to -25%)
Large
Decrease
Figure 6.1 - National Trends in General Sports
Edina Level of Service Standards
PARKS: Anticipated Future Park Development 2014 - 2019
Park Type Edina Inventory Meet Standard/Need Exists Future Amenity Developments Total 2014-2019 Meet Standard/Need Exists
Mini Parks 16.95 0.35 acres per 1,000 0.50 acres per 1,000 Need Exists 7 Acre(s)- - Need Exists 8 Acre(s)
Neighborhood Parks 93.31 1.92 acres per 1,000 1.75 acres per 1,000 Meets Standard - Acre(s)- - Meets Standard - Acre(s)
Community Parks 319.88 6.58 acres per 1,000 7.00 acres per 1,000 Need Exists 21 Acre(s)- - Need Exists 34 Acre(s)
Special-Use Parks 760.36 15.64 acres per 1,000 11.00 acres per 1,000 Meets Standard - Acre(s)- - Meets Standard - Acre(s)
Open Space/Greenway 191.43 3.94 acres per 1,000 4.50 acres per 1,000 Need Exists 27 Acre(s)- - Need Exists 36 Acre(s)
Total Park Acres 1,381.93 28.42 acres per 1,000 24.75 acres per 1,000 Meets Standard - Acre(s)- - Meets Standard - Acre(s)
OUTDOOR AMENITIES:
Picnic Pavilions (Small & Medium)7.00 1.00 site per 6,947 1.00 site per 5,000 Need Exists 3 Sites(s)- - Need Exists 3 Sites(s)
Pavilions (Large & Indoor)3.00 1.00 site per 16,209 1.00 site per 10,000 Need Exists 2 Sites(s)- - Need Exists 2 Sites(s)
Baseball Fields 11.00 1.00 field per 4,421 1.00 field per 4,000 Need Exists 1 Field(s)- - Need Exists 2 Field(s)
Softball Fields 11.00 1.00 field per 4,421 1.00 field per 4,000 Need Exists 1 Field(s)- - Need Exists 2 Field(s)
Multi-Use Field (Soccer/Lacrosse/Football/Rugby) (Youth Size) 12.00 1.00 field per 4,052 1.00 field per 3,500 Need Exists 2 Field(s)- - Need Exists 2 Field(s)
Multi-Use Field (Soccer/Lacrosse/Football/Rugby) (Adult Size) 9.00 1.00 field per 5,403 1.00 field per 3,500 Need Exists 5 Field(s)Fields at Pamela Park 4.00 Need Exists 1 Field(s)
Outdoor Basketball Courts 9.00 1.00 court per 5,403 1.00 court per 4,000 Need Exists 3 Court(s)- - Need Exists 4 Court(s)
Tennis Courts 13.00 1.00 court per 3,740 1.00 court per 4,000 Meets Standard - Court(s)- - Meets Standard - Court(s)
Indoor Ice Sheets 3.00 1.00 site per 16,209 1.00 site per 15,000 Meets Standard - Sites(s)- - Meets Standard - Sites(s)
Outdoor Ice Sheets 23.00 1.00 site per 2,114 1.00 site per 2,500 Meets Standard - Sites(s)- - Meets Standard - Sites(s)
Playgrounds (Youth & Tot)27.00 1.00 site per 1,801 1.00 site per 2,000 Meets Standard - Site(s)- - Meets Standard - Site(s)
Dog Parks 1.00 1.00 site per 48,626 1.00 site per 30,000 Need Exists 1 Site(s)- - Need Exists 1 Site(s)
Volleyball Pit 1.00 1.00 site per 48,626 1.00 site per 20,000 Need Exists 1 Site(s)- - Need Exists 2 Site(s)
Skate Board Area 1.00 1.00 site per 48,626 1.00 site per 40,000 Meets Standard - Site(s)- - Meets Standard - Site(s)
Multi-Use Trails (Miles) 13.82 0.28 miles per 1,000 0.75 miles per 1,000 Need Exists 23 Mile(s)Nine-Mile Creek Trail & Pamela Park Trail 8.95 Need Exists 15 Mile(s)
Community Gardens 1.00 1.00 site per 48,626 1.00 site per 50,000 Meets Standard - Site(s)- - Meets Standard - Site(s)
Disc Golf Courses 1.00 1.00 site per 48,626 1.00 site per 40,000 Meets Standard - Site(s)- - Meets Standard - Site(s)
Outdoor Pools 1.00 1.00 site per 48,626 1.00 site per 40,000 Meets Standard - Sites(s)- - Meets Standard - Sites(s)
INDOOR AMENITIES:
Recreation Centers (Square Feet)42,000.00 0.86 SF per person 2.00 SF per person Need Exists 55,252 Square Feet - - Need Exists 59,008 Square Feet
48,62650,504
Notes:
2014 Estimated Population 2019 Estimated Population
2014 Inventory - Developed Facilities 2014 Facility Standards 2019 Facility Standards
Current Service Level based upon
population
Recommended Service Levels;
Revised for Local Service Area
Additional Facilities/
Amenities Needed
Additional Facilities/
Amenities Needed
Figure 7.1 - Level of Service Standards (LOS)
LEVEL OF SERVICE STANDARDS
The consultant team evaluated park facility standards using a combination of resources. This information allowed standards to be customized to the City of Edina. Figure 7.1 shows the Level of Service Analysis for Edina. The first
column is the park type or amenity being analyzed. The second column is a current total inventory system-wide for that park or amenity. The 2014 estimated population of Edina is then used to calculate the current service level or
“units per population”. The first set of lime columns show the recommended level of service for Edina. This is created based upon National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) guidelines, recreation activity participation rates
reported by the Sports & Fitness Industry Association’s (SFIA) 2014 Study of Sports, Fitness, and Leisure Participation as it applies to activities that occur in the United States and in the Edina area, community and stakeholder input,
the 2014 Community Needs Assessment Survey and the planning team’s observations. The 2014 Facility Standards show where need might exist based off of current population estimates and current inventory, while the 2019 Facility
Standards show where need might exist based off of 2019 population estimates, current inventory, and the addition of anticipated future park developments. As one can see there are many needs to be met in the present and future. The
standards outlined are not aggressive, but are conservative.
When looking at needs, the design team focused on the 2019 projections. These projections allowed for planning suggestions to be made that would allow time for implementation. The following park amenities were shown to have
needs that exist:
LEVEL OF SERVICE
184 | CITY OF EDINA
BASEBALL/SOFTBALL FIELDS - The LOS projections show a need for two
additional baseball fields and two softball fields in Edina. However, the need was not
correlated in the community survey and was ranked very low in overall priorities. It
is recommended that the current baseball and softball fields should be maintained, and
the addition of more baseball and softball fields should be put on hold and revisited as
the need is expressed by the community. Figure 7.3 shows all EPRD baseball/softball
fields and other non-EPRD baseball/softball fields.
City of Edina
Baseball & Softball Fields
5-Minute Walk
10-Minute Walk
WILLIAMSPARK
WOODDALE PARK
UTLEY PARK
BROWNDALE PARK
TODDPARK
HIGHLANDSPARK
GARDENPARK MELODY LAKEPARK
ARDEN PARK
PAMELA PARK
STRACHAUER PARK
ROSLANDPARK
ARNESONACRES
FRED RICHARDS PARK
CENTENNIAL LAKES
EDINBOROUGHPARK
YORKTOWNPARK
EDINA PROMENDADE
LEWIS PARK
MCQUIRE PARK
HEIGHTS PARK
NORMANDALE PARK
BRAEMARGOLF COURSE
CREEK VALLEY PARK
BREDESEN PARK
WALNUT RIDGE PARK
FOX MEADOW PARK
VAN VALKENBURG PARK
COUNTRYSIDEPARK
BIRCHCREST PARK
TINGDALE PARK ST. JOHNS PARK
CHOWEN-PARK
YORKPARK
GRANDVIEW SQUARE
FRANK TUPAPARK
SHERWOODPARK
KOJETINPARK
WEBER FIELDPARK
ALDEN PARK
BRAEMARPARK
ORNELIA SCHOOL PARK
Softball Field
(non EPRD)
Baseball Field(non EPRD)
Good
Fair
Poor
Baseball Field Softball Field
EDINA COMMUNITY CENTER & SOUTH VIEW MIDDLE
EDINA HIGH SCHOOL & VALLEY VIEW MIDDLE SCHOOL
Figure 7.3 - Baseball and Softball fields map
PARKS, RECREATION & TRAILS STRATEGIC PLAN | A-7
APPENDIX A
PARKS, OPEN SPACE & TRAILS
Our vision for parks, open spaces, and trails is to ensure parks are a source of
community pride by providing a balance of active and passive spaces that
are well connected and reflect high quality design principles and maintenance
standards; allowing all residents to engage in healthy activities.
PARKS GOAL 1- PROMOTE CONNECTIONS TO THE PARK SYSTEM WITHIN THE CITY, AND TO THE
SURROUNDING REGION
STRATEGY 1.1
Prioritize the development and implementation of a multi-use trail network that connects parks and facilities together,
and connects to key destinations throughout the City.
Tactic Implementation
Year Performance Measure
1.1.1 Achieve a .75 miles per 1,000 people goal for hard
surface trails to connect neighborhoods, major attractions
(historical and cultural), and community parks via trails.
2016-2026
Add 15 additional miles of
trail to meet 2019 population
projections (in addition to Nine
Mile Creek trail).
1.1.2 Coordinate with Engineering to seek funding to support
developing a system of on street shared lanes, separated
bike lanes, and off-street hard surface trails connecting to
parks. Prioritize off-street trails and separate bike lanes.
Ongoing Dollars committed in the 2016
budget to trail implementation.
1.1.3 Coordinate with Engineering Department
and collaborate with other Community programs
including Bike Edina, Edina Living Streets
program, Active Routes to Schools, Sidewalk
Priority Plan, and Capital Improvement Plan.
Ongoing
Identify shovel ready projects
and commit dollars in the 2018
budget
1.1.4 Provide facilities to support existing trails and the
new Nine Mile Creek Regional trail e.g. - restrooms, drinking
fountains, and appropriate waste/ recycling facilities.
2020
Identify facility needs and
incorporate into capital
improvements plan.
1.1.5 Provide facilities in parks to fully supported
bicycle use including adequate bike parking and racks,
bicycle library, covered parking, tandem bikes for senior,
bike trailers for families, and repair stands, etc...
2020 Identify shovel ready projects
and commit dollars to 2020.
A-8 | CITY OF EDINA
APPENDIX A
STRATEGY 1.3
Market parks and programs throughout the city to inform residents of offerings.
Tactic Implementation
Year Performance Measure
1.3.1 Dedicate communications staff to EPRD efforts. 2016 Dedicate communications
staff for.
1.3.2 Present this Strategic Plan across departments and
community groups that may be unfamiliar with it to build
connections.
2015 Presentations to non-
traditional groups.
1.3.3 Create and implement a naming policy for parks and
future facilities.2016 Integrate into Parks plan by
2017.
PARKS GOAL 2 - ENSURE EXCELLENCE AND EQUITABLE ACCESS TO PARKS FOR ALL RESIDENTS.
STRATEGY 2.1
Pursue Commission for Accreditation of Park and Recreation Agencies (CAPRA) Accreditation and strive for Gold
Medal Recognition.
Tactic Implementation
Year Performance Measure
2.1.1 Research CAPRA requirements, highlight where EPRD
has gaps, and develop plan to achieve requirements.2017 Apply and achieve CAPRA
accreditation.
2.1.2 Apply for Gold Medal Award.2020 Receive Gold Medal Award
recognition.
STRATEGY 1.2
Develop, refine, and implement the branding, signage, and wayfinding plan included in this strategic plan.
Tactic Implementation
Year Performance Measure
1.2.1 Create a comprehensive branding, signage and
wayfinding plan for all EPRD properties and programs.2016 Dedicated funding for
completing branding plan.
1.2.2 Coordinate with other departments and incorporate
branding throughout City materials. 2017 Update websites, implement
first installation project(s).
1.2.3 Replace park signage with updated branding.2016+Replace signage with phased
approach.
PARKS, RECREATION & TRAILS STRATEGIC PLAN | A-9
APPENDIX A
STRATEGY 2.2
Match development and redevelopment of park system and maintenance facilities to population growth and
demographics changes.
Tactic Implementation
Year Performance Measure
2.2.1 Transition under utilized amenities and replace with
more productive amenities that are tied to neighborhood
needs (Reference Edina Level of Service Standards file).
2025
Updated Park Master Plans
remove outdated amenities as
part of lifecycle management
plan every year for the next
five years.
2.2.2 Refer to included facility assessments and inventories
to identify key facilities such as restrooms, drinking fountains,
signage, parking, and other comfort and convenience
features in need of replacement, and develop a plan to
replace deficient infrastructure not meeting Park System
standards.
2018
Identify deficient infrastructure
and create implementation/
replacement plan.
2.2.3 Establish and utilize a Furniture, Fixture, and
Equipment (FFE) standard and inventory for park and
recreation amenities, (e.g. basketball hoops, outdoor lighting,
outdoor benches, etc.) parts inventories, and enhanced
maintenance efficiency.
2018 Established FFE standards
plan.
A-10 | CITY OF EDINA
APPENDIX A
PARKS GOAL 3 - INCREASE THE HEALTH AND SAFETY OF THE PARKS AND TRAIL SYSTEM.
STRATEGY 3.1
Update all parks and trails to 2010 Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Standards for Accessible Design.
Tactic Implementation
Year Performance Measure
3.1.1 Complete inventory and assessment of all park infra-
structure regarding 2010 ADA standards.2020 New facilities meet or exceed
standard. Integrate into RFP.
3.1.1 Require all new infrastructure to meet 2010 ADA
standards 2025 New facilities meet or exceed
standard. Integrate into RFP.
3.1.2 Upgrade existing facilities not meeting ADA standard 2025 5 - year plan to prioritize and
implement updates.
STRATEGY 3.2
Ensure safety throughout the park system.
Tactic Implementation
Year Performance Measure
3.2.1 Incorporate Crime Prevention through Environmental
Design (CPED) principles and guidelines into parks and
recreation site design and ongoing maintenance practices.
2017
Integrate requirement into
RFPs for new facilities and
renovations. Consider
hiring consultant to evaluate
existing facilities and make
recommendations.
PARKS, RECREATION & TRAILS STRATEGIC PLAN | A-11
APPENDIX A
PARKS GOAL 4 - REVITALIZE EXISTING PARKS BY ALIGNING PARK, OPEN SPACE, AND TRAIL
INFRASTRUCTURE WITH CURRENT AND ANTICIPATED COMMUNITY NEEDS.
STRATEGY 4.1
Design flexibility into outdoor spaces and athletic fields to meet current needs and readily adapt to future recreation
trends.
Tactic Implementation
Year Performance Measure
4.1.1 Consult Level of Service study to identify gaps and
recommendations.2016 3 Multi-use fields identified as
a need by 2019.
4.1.2 Consider alternative surfaces for high use areas (e.g.
artificial turf, high performance turf, etc.)2020
Long term cost benefit
analysis of capital and
maintenance costs.
4.1.3 Ensure adequate lighting to extend playability times
throughout the year and in morning/ early evening times.2020 Utilize facility analysis to
identify lightinig issues.
4.1.4 Prioritize flexibility and community gathering spaces in
future master plans and renovation projects.Ongoing
Integrate goals and/ or
requirements into RFPs for
future park master plans.
STRATEGY 4.2
Provide specialized park infrastructure to address under served needs, emerging trends, and support year round uses.
Tactic Implementation
Year Performance Measure
4.2.1 Prioritize projects to increase the Level of Service (LOS)
in areas where data shows the highest need.Ongoing
Seek funding for new or
renovated park and recreation
facilities and properties based
on LOS.
4.2.2 Provide infrastructure to support winter uses and trails
into existing parks for a variety of skills and mobility uses that
will bring more residents to parks in winter months.
2020 Integrate winter uses into all
parks and trails plans.
4.2.3 Emphasize year round opportunities at Braemar Park
to cross pollinate with existing activities. Explore mountain
biking trails, snow making for ski trails, biathlon training
infrastructure, and additional winter uses.
2017
Increase marketing of Braemar
Park winter trail and include
winter trail planning in
Braemar Park Master Plan.
4.2.4 Require community driven master plans and/ or public
input process for all projects with greater than $250,000
improvements.
2017 Complete a community driven
master plan for Fred Richards.
4.2.5 Evaluate current and future needs and locations for
Community Gardens. Consider sites near apartments/ condos
and higher density areas with limited access to usable
planting space - where needs may be greater.
2020 Evaluate community garden
use and community desire.
Date: May 13, 2024 Agenda Item #: IX.A.
To:Parks and Recreation Commission Item Type:
Other
From:Perry Vetter, Parks & Recreation Director
Item Activity:
Subject:Upcoming Meetings and Events Information
CITY OF EDINA
4801 West 50th Street
Edina, MN 55424
www.edinamn.gov
ACTION REQUESTED:
None, informational only.
INTRODUCTION:
Upcoming meetings and events for 2024 P arks and Recreation Commission activity.
ATTACHMENTS:
Description
Upcoming Meetings and Events
May 13, 2024
Park and Recreation Commission
Perry Vetter, Parks & Recreation Director
Upcoming Meetings and Events
Date 2024 Meeting Dates Time Location*
Mon. May 13** Monday Regular Meeting 7:00 pm Braemar Golf Course
Tues. May 21
Joint Work Session with City Council
• Annual work plan discussion
• Recommended, not required attendance
5:30 pm City Hall Community Room
Tues. Jun. 11 Regular Meeting 7:00 pm Braemar Golf Course
Tues. July 9 No Meeting - -
Mon. Aug. 12** Monday Regular Meeting 7:00 pm Braemar Golf Course
Tues. Sept. 10 Regular Meeting 7:00 pm Braemar Golf Course
Tues. Oct. 8 Regular Meeting 7:00 pm Braemar Golf Course
Wed. Nov. 13** Wednesday Regular Meeting 7:00 pm Braemar Golf Course
Tues. Dec. 10 Regular Meeting 7:00 pm Braemar Golf Course
Date 2024 Events Time Location*
Thurs. May 2 Board & Commission Recognition Open House 6-8 pm Braemar Golf Course
Thurs. July 4 Independence Day Parade and Fireworks 10:00 am
Sept. 7 & 8 Fall Into the Arts Festival 10a – 5p Centennial Lakes
* Regular Commission meetings will be held in the Hoyt and Blanchard Room, lower level of Braemar Golf
Course, 6364 John Harris Drive, Edina.
** Date Adjustments – In accordance with the 2024 Observed City Calendar.