07-13-05 Council Workshop Minutes

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MINUTirS CITY COUNCIL JULY 13, 2005 and landscaping are planned for the Round Lake park. However, there are two properties in the middle of the park yet to be acquired. Allan noted thaC there are a lot of senior citizens nearby that would like to enjoy this area, but need benches to do so. The Park Commissioners indicated that they could look at the feasibility of making some limited improvements to this area. The Parks Consultant presented a trail map to those present, pointing out the sections of proposed trails. The Consultant indicated Chat the Commission continues to make efforts to implement the trail plan. He noted that one big issue to address is the crossing of the Demont Trail over 35E. It was noted that the Little Canada Road bridge is not a practical trail connection. The Consultant reported that a freeway hail crossing would likely cost $1 million, but would be a project Chat would be eligible for approximately 80% grant funding if there were grant dollars available. The Consultant indicated that one big question is where that trail would tie into on the easC side of the freeway. The Consultant indicated that another trail issue is the trail connection to the water utility property in the area of the Burke Lane/Concetta Way/Yorkton Ridge neighborhood. Those present reviewed the three options presented by the City Engineer, with Tony Mans of the Park Commission indicating that Option 1 was preferable (4,500' foot trail along County Drive and South Owasso Blvd.). It was felt that implementing Option #3 (Yorkton Ridge pedestrian bridge) would require the City to purchase one of the adjacent homes, install the bridge, and then resell the house. Keis pointed out that Option 1 could be implemented, with Option 3 designated as a future possibility if the opportunity ever presented itself. The City Administrator reported that the Country Drive trail project as well as the replacement of sidewalk adjacent to Gordies will be completed this year. Easements for the Country Drive project are being finalized and should be ready to go within the next two weeks. He also reported that the path around the Market Place Pond will also be finished this year. The Administrator reported that completion of the Waterworks Trail is problematic given the railroad's reluctance to grant an on-grade trail crossing without the existence of a street. The City Engineer is currently looking at the feasibility of a tunnel system as an option. Keis expressed some concern with a tunnel relative to length, lighting, and attractive nuisance issues. The Administrator suggested that another option would be to construct a road connecting to Spruce Street.