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STAFF REPORT <br />DATE: July 7th 2026 <br />Discussion <br />TO: Mayor and Councilmembers <br />FROM: Adam Swnanepoel – Assistant Public Works Director <br />AGENDA ITEM: Phalen-Keller Regional Trail Long-Range Plan <br />CORE STRATEGIES: <br />☐ Vibrant, inclusive, connected community <br />☒ Responsive, transparent, adaptive governance☒ <br />☐ Managed Growth <br />☐ Efficient, reliable, innovative services <br />☐ Balanced Finances now and future <br />☐ Resilient Infrastructure <br />BACKGROUND: <br />Over the past three years, Washington County has provided the Parks Commission with regular updates on the <br />development of the county’s regional trail system. The Phalen-Keller Trail is a key component of this network, <br />serving as an important connection between the city, neighboring communities, and the regional park system. <br />Once fully developed, the Phalen-Keller Trail will function as a central arterial route within Washington County’s <br />regional trail network, linking multiple communities and providing an additional option for both recreation and <br />transportation. It will also connect to the Central Greenway Regional Trail, giving residents direct access to three <br />premier regional park facilities: Big Marine Park Reserve, Lake Elmo Park Reserve, and Cottage Grove Ravine <br />Regional Park. In addition, the trail will provide a safe, separated off-road corridor that integrates with local trail <br />systems and other recreational amenities, enhancing regional connectivity and accessibility. <br />ISSUE BEFORE COUNCIL: <br />Are there any questions for the County Planner regarding the future trail? <br />PROPOSAL DETAILS/ANALYSIS: <br />The development of the Phalen-Keller Regional Trail through the City of Lake Elmo will be a significant asset for <br />both the local community and trail users throughout Washington County. As a key segment of the regional trail <br />network, the trail will enhance connectivity between neighborhoods, parks, and surrounding communities while <br />providing residents and visitors with safe, accessible opportunities for recreation and active transportation. <br />Previous community engagement done by the city has consistently demonstrated the importance of trails to <br />Lake Elmo residents. Survey results indicate that 45% of current trail users utilize the city's trail system for <br />walking and biking, highlighting the value of multi-use trails in supporting healthy, active lifestyles. In addition, <br />biking ranked as respondents' second most preferred trail activity, with 41% identifying it as a primary use. The