12-13-2023 Workshop Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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Community visioning event/activity This action item outlines the outreach work associated with a future community gathering space. Additionally, outreach to gauge community support for a community garden will be conducted. Community culture campaign To build community pride, an “adopt-a-program” is in the process of being developed to include hydrants, storm drains, parks, right-of-way, and city blocks. A significant amount of work has already been completed for this process for the adoption of hydrants, parks, and storm drains. Identify signage and locations A committee was formed to address this initiative and a report was provided to the City Council, however no budget, funding source, or specific action steps were developed. With the recently adopted gas franchise fee, this initiative will be addressed in greater detail in 2024. Funds have been allocated for professional services to develop the design and location of gateway signage. Review & redefine EDA scope Goals for 2024 include determining the structure of the Board of Directors and developing a long term funding strategy with a primary focus on redevelopment. Identify gaps and update pedestrian trail/sidewalk implementation plan Sidewalk/trail updates have been approved by the city and the Met Council. Upcoming work for the Thunder Bay/Westwind trail has been slated for Quarter 2 of 2024. Complete concept plan for Little Canada Road and I-35 intersection In 2021, the City Council authorized Bolton & Menk to begin working on potential options for traffic and pedestrian improvements at the intersection of I-35/Little Canada Road/Country Drive interchange. Community engagement for the project has begun with both an open house and a survey completed. Staff and City Engineers are in the process of submitting grant applications to assist with the funding for a potential project in this area. Develop small area concept plans Staff is working on a proposal to partner with the Urban Land Institute (ULI) of Minnesota to conduct a Technical Advisory Panel with the City Council in early 2024. ULI Minnesota engages public and private sector leaders to utilize their expertise and provide guidance to local communities on potential development sites. This collaborative effort shows a commitment to thoughtful, sustainable growth, ensuring a vibrant and resilient community which aligns with the Strategic Plan's goals. The ULI partnership provides the guidance of industry leaders and urban planning experts to address key questions and gain insights to implement the city’s long-term goals and objectives for development.