HomeMy WebLinkAbout2.19.2020 Parks Commission Full Packet
NOTICE OF MEETING
City of Lake Elmo Parks Commission
3800 Laverne Avenue North
February 19, 2020 6:30 PM
AGENDA
1. Call to Order
2. Pledge of Allegiance
3. Select Chair and Vice Chair
4. Approve Agenda
5. Approve Minutes
a) December 16, 2019
6. Public Comments
7. Review Sunfish Lake RFP Submission
8. March 16, 2020 Meeting Agenda
9. Communications
10. Adjourn
***Note: Every effort will be made to accommodate person or persons that need special considerations to attend this meeting
due to a health condition or disability. Please contact the Lake Elmo City Clerk if you are in need of special accommodations .
Our Mission is to Provide Quality Public
Services in a Fiscally Responsible Manner
While Preserving the City’s Open Space
Character
Dr
a
f
t
MINUTES
City of Lake Elmo Parks Commission
December 16, 2019
Members Present: Commissioners- Mayek, Nightingale, Olinger, Schumacher, Weeks and Zeno
Absent: Ames
Staff Present: City Planner- Prchal, Public Works Director- Powers
The meeting was called to order by Weeks at 6:30 PM.
Announcements
No announcements
Approval of Agenda
Weeks motioned to approve the agenda, seconded by Schumacher.
Agenda was approved unanimously.
Approval of Minutes
a) November 18, 2019
No changes were made.
Minutes were accepted as presented.
Public Comments
Susan Dunn, 11018 Upper 33rd Street North. Ms. Dunn had done some more research on off-
road mountain biking and listed off other cities in the area that do not allow them. She
referenced an old lawsuit from 1994 claiming mountain biking is a safety concern and
needs to be restricted. She wants to make sure the commission knows this is in
important issue and one that they need to be thinking about in the future.
Parks Commission 2020 Work Plan
Prchal presented to the commission the work plan for 2020. Staff is recommending approval of
the 2020 work plan. These are guidelines for issues the commission can work on in
2020:
Planning and Policy Work there is a project with the county to have a trail extending
from the southern to northern border which is a multi-year plan. They could work on
some amendments to the park naming policy, facilitate the mountain bike trails project
in Sunfish Lake Park and talk about adding a dog park in the city.
Maintenance & Refurbishing Work there is opportunities to plant new trees, monitoring
Reid and Ridge Park trails which may need some added wood chips and develop a
walking trail map and maintenance plan.
Weeks asked if they could add the idea of more ball fields. Prchal said this might not be the best
time to add that. The city is slated to receive $1 million from the Royal Golf
Dr
a
f
t
development and that money is strictly for ball fields, because the development is
rendering some ball fields as not usable.
Olinger asked for clarification about the park naming policy. She was wondering if it is only in
regard to naming after a family and not after an individual. Prchal said that currently
parks cannot be named after a development but they can be a family name and that
updating the policy to be clearer will help.
Olinger moved to amend that 2020 Parks Commission work plan to include the possibility of
adding some new ball fields next year. Seconded by Mayek.
The motion was approved unanimously. The Work plan was approved unanimously.
January 22, 2020 Meeting Agenda
1) No items at this time.
Communications
Prchal shared with the commission a list of term expirations for the commission members.
Commissioners Zeno, Ames and Nightingale terms expire at the end of this year. Prchal
encouraged them to reapply if they are interested in continuing their service and to
encourage other residents to apply if they are interested. Terms are 3 years.
Weeks asked if Zeno and Nightingale are interested in reapplying, both said they were
considering.
Prchal said they will look at the park dedication fund again after the CIP is done, currently there
is $600,000 in the fund.
Weeks let the commission know that the City Council will be discussing the Inwood Park
development at their meeting tomorrow.
Director Powers had his crew checked out a reported leak at the VFW drinking fountain and
they found the leak and fixed it.
Weeks said that he has noticed a lot of parks amenities are expensive and he is encouraging
staff to find and apply for grants when they can to help fund some of these parks.
Powers said he has been in contact with the students that presented at the last meeting for
their ideas for the 180 acres. Their two ideas that they are most interested in are a
splash pad and solar lights in the proposed park.
Weeks asked if the gate at Sunfish Lake Park is working and Powers said it was working.
Director Powers also said that the lights at Pebble Park have been helping to reduce
dumping.
Powers said they are beginning to flood the rink and hopefully they will get it open this
weekend.
Zeno recommended the commission start thinking about doing some park walk-throughs to
generate some improvement ideas.
Meeting adjourned at 7:05 p.m.
Respectfully Submitted,
Alex Saxe, Deputy Clerk
STAFF REPORT
DATE: 2-19-2020
REGULAR
TO: Parks Commission
FROM: Ben Prchal, City Planner
AGENDA ITEM: Sunfish Lake Park Trail Request for Proposal (RFP) – Response Review
REVIEWED BY: Kristina Handt, City Administrator
BACKGROUND:
Over the course of 2018 and 2019 the City actively discussed and ultimately approved the construction of
a bike trail plan and an RFP for Sunfish Lake Park (November 5th, 2019). After the project received approval,
the RFP was published from December 2019 to January 2020. During that time the City received one bid
for review.
ISSUE BEFORE THE PARKS COMMISSION:
Does the Parks Commission have any comments or recommendations for the City Council, regarding the submitted
bid?
PROPOSAL DETAILS/ANALYSIS:
The bid that was received to implement the approved trail plan came from Tim Wegner, owner operator of Trail
Source. As a side note Tim has been involved with the City regarding trail development in other parks as well.
During the review of Reid Park and the High School trail proposal Tim assisted with their trail design. Consequently,
that was the same time the City was reviewing Sunfish Park for its viability to acquire trials. Although Tim was the
only builder to submit a bid to the City, Staff is inclined to recommend the offer. Tim has visited the park and
designed the initial trail layout that was proposed to the City for review. Furthermore, Tim has provided a written
response to the RFP which is briefly addressed below. Nonetheless, Staff encourages the Commission to review page
4 of the Trail Source response as it lists out the lead workers and their skill sets.
Trail Source History:
- Trail Source has been in business since 2000.
- A member of the Professional Trail Builders Association in 2002.
- Owner served on the American Trails Board for 4 years.
- Served on the Minnesota Off Road Cyclists (MORC) board for 10 years.
- Member of the Minnesota Recreational Trail Users Association for 10 years.
- 10 year International Mountain Bicycling Association (IMBA) volunteer.
The RFP made many references to the IMBA guidelines, Tim’s business Trail Source was used as a reference in
“IMBA’s Guide to Building Sweet Single Track” as a source for IMBA affiliated trail building. Trail Source is also
referenced in a blog post on the IMBA website from 2011 (Click Here). During Tim’s time with IMBA he taught
school 1-2 times a year for sustainable trail design.
Relevant Projects:
There are many projects listed in the submittal but Staff has opted to pull out a few for review in the report.
Hillside Park, Elk River – Was experiencing significant erosion issues, Trail Source stepped in to reconstruct the
trials which subsequently eliminated the existing erosion issues. Now erosion maintenance no longer remains in
focus. A reference letter from the trail manager is attached.
Theodore Wirth Park, Minneapolis – Trail Source built and designed the trial system with coordination from the City
Staff. Theodore Wirth Park is actively used by more than just bike riders and is a popular park within the metro area.
2
Lebanon Hills, Dakota County – Similar to Sunfish Lake Park, Lebanon Hills had existing user groups. The bike
trails were designed around the existing walking trails to minimize the impact to the existing users. This park also
happens to be one of the most widely used parks in the Metropolitan area. A reference letter from the project manager
is attached.
Staff Comments – Staff spoke to Josh Kelly regarding Trail Source. Josh had positive things to say about the trail
builder. Stating that Tim has worked with them since 2008, commenting that Tim is a solid contractor who
incorporates sustainable trail building techniques into the trail. Sections of the trail were plagued with erosion, to
which gravel was brought in periodically to fix the issue. Tim was inevitably allowed to come in and redesign the
trails, now there is no issue of erosion.
FISCAL IMPACT (Estimated):
Trail Source submitted a bid for $111,682.21. This is a favorable bid as it came in $8,317.8 below the approved
expenditure to build the trails.
Trail Source will be providing a two year warranty after construction. Once the warranty period has expired the
yearly maintenance cost(s) are not expected to exceed $2,500.
RECOMMENDATION:
At this time, and although only one bid was received, Staff is confident that Trail Source will provide strong value to
the City throughout the build and would not have any reservations accepting Trail Source as the contractor.
“Recommend acceptance of the proposal from Trail Source to build bike trials within Sunfish Lake Park”
OPTIONS:
The Park Commission may:
1. Recommend Approval of the Contractor(s) Bid.
2. Recommend Denial of the Contractor(s) Bid.
ATTACHMENTS:
Advertised RFP (Staff removed pages 22-32 to reduce the document size)
RFP Submittal Response
Lebanon Hills Reference Letter
Hillside Trail Reference Letter
Request for Proposals on Mountain Bike Trail Construction
City of Lake Elmo
Sunfish Lake Park
Proposals Due: 1-17-2020
Address Proposals to:
Attention: Ben Prchal - City Planner
3880 Laverne Ave. N.,
Lake Elmo, MN 55042
Phone: 651-747-3911
Email: bprchal@lakeelmo.org
Table of Contents
PART A: GENERAL INFORMATION
SECTION 1: PROJECT DESCRIPTION AND SCOPE
1.0 General Project Description
1.1 Site Conditions
1.2 Project Scope
SECTION 2: CONTRACTOR QUALIFICATIONS, REQUIREMENTS,
RESPONSIBILITIES, and INSURANCE AND CONTRACT EXPECTATIONS
2.1 Experience and Portfolio
2.2 Workman’s compensation
2.3 Tools
2.4 Mechanized equipment
2.5 Meetings and progress reviews
2.6 What contractor provides and obtains
2.7 Timetable
2.8 Guarantee and Warranty
2.9 Insurance and Contract Requirements
1
SECTION 3: FINAL INSPECTION
3.1 Final inspection
SECTION 4: TIMELINE AND SCHEDULE
4.1 Pre-bid site visit (Optional)
4.2 Proposal submission deadline (January 17, 2020)
4.3 Work Complete (June 30, 2020 (Desired))
SECTION 5: PROPOSAL SUBMISSION PACKAGE
SECTION 6: BASIS FOR AWARD AND RIGHT OF REJECTION
6.1 Basis for award
6.2 Right of rejection
6.3 Qualifications and experience
6.4 Additional information
SECTION 7: BID WORKSHEETS
7.1 Bid Worksheet A
7.2 Bid Worksheet B
PART B: PROJECT DETAIL
SECTION 8: FINISHED TRAIL CONSTRUCTION AND MAINTENANCE GUIDELINES
8.1 Trail Design
8.2 Bike Specific Trail Flow
8.3 Trail Construction Best Practices
8.4 Corridor clearing and Trail Crossings
8.5 Trail Flagging
8.6 Debris
8.7 Rocks
8.8 Woody material
8.9 Fall Zone Clearing
8.10 Backslope/Outslope
2
8.11 Trail, Finished Condition
8.12 Spoils Stabilization
8.13 Turns
8.14 Grade Reversals
8.15 Above Grade Earthen Structures 8.16
Water Diversions
8.17 Invasive Species
8.18 Filter Strips
8.19 Mechanized Equipment Best Practices
8.20 Preservation of Vegetation
8.21 Ground Disturbance
SECTION 9: MAPS
9.1 Field Design- Draft Trail Map
9.2 Site Topography
9.3 Soil Analysis
9.4 Access, Supply and Staging
3
PART A: GENERAL INFORMATION
SECTION 1: PROJECT DESCRIPTION AND SCOPE
1.0 General Project Description
The City of Lake Elmo is seeking a contractor to provide labor, supervision, materials (as
necessary) and equipment to perform specified trail construction for a single track flow
mountain bike trail system within Sunfish Lake Park.
Sunfish Lake Park is located in Lake Elmo Minnesota, which is 25 minutes from downtown St.
Paul. The park consists of 268 acres of mature woodland and rolling hills. The City would like
the accepted contractor to review the trail design and make adjustments to the design where
appropriate, with the intent of mitigating erosion, to lessen environmental impacts, and
increase the user experience. Though the City is developing mountain bike trails within the
park, preservation of the existing features is a priority and an environmentally conscious
design and build is expected. There is a conservation easement over the property that is
monitored by the Minnesota Land Trust (A copy of the Conservation Easement is included with
the bid package, the awarded bidder should review the document for conformity during the
trail build.). Because of this, portions of the trail may need to be built by hand. Throughout
the entire build, the City expects the selected contractor to use best practices and follow the
International Mountain Bicycling Association guidelines (IMBA).
The City would like to see a flowing trail through the park that will appeal to the majority of
riders. The intent is to create a trail system that is dynamic and can create an intimate
experience that allows the rider to enjoy the aesthetics of the park. At this time the City does
not want to see features that are technically challenging on the main trail. The trail should
only be as wide as necessary to safely use the trail. The intent is to keep a low profile and to
minimize disturbance to the park and its natural features.
1.1 Site Conditions
The terrain is hilly and forested, with elevation ranging from 892 ft. to 992 ft. The City
Recommends that the prospective builders visit the site as well as review the soils on the USDA
Web Soil Survey. A soils map has been attached but please perform more research as
necessary. The characteristics of the soil are listed as being somewhat limited. The USDA
further indicates that the limitations can be overcome with appropriate trail design and
installation. The City will be looking to the contractor to implement and an appropriate design
and build plan.
4
1.2 Project Scope
The City has reserved funding to help support the project and the project’s scope of work
includes at least 22,158 feet of new trail construction. There is an existing trail system (primarily
used for walking) within the park and appropriate slowing methods will need to be used to aide in
safety at those crossings. Completed work must meet the specifications outlined in “Part B
Project Details.” The City's preference is to have work start as soon as possible in 2020 to have
the build done in the summer/fall of 2020.
SECTION 2: CONTRACTOR QUALIFICATIONS, REQUIREMENTS, AND
RESPONSIBILITIES
2.1 Experience and Portfolio
The Contractor shall have demonstrable experience in building sustainable cross country/flow
single-track trails on terrain and/or soil characteristics similar to that of Sunfish Lake Park. The
Contractor shall provide a portfolio showing work accomplished and references from 3 past
comparable or relevant projects. The City also wants a contractor that is capable of providing
a GIS file of the final trail.
2.2 Workman’s compensation
The Client reserves the right to request proof of compliance with workmen’s compensation
laws.
2.3 Tools
The Contractor shall perform the required work using hand tools and/or small mechanized
equipment that is a maximum of 50” in width. Equipment with adjustable width tracks should
be able to reduce track width to 50” for building the new trail. Some sites may not be suitable
for equipment this large and other sites may not be suitable for any mechanized equipment
regardless of size due to terrain and environmental constraints. Permanent modification of
trail outside the scope of work to accommodate construction equipment access is not
desirable and must be approved by the City before building the modification.
2.4 Mechanized equipment
All mechanized equipment shall be in good mechanical condition, free of any fluid leaks. All
equipment will be clean and free of debris before introduced to work site. Equipment is
subject to inspection at the start and during the project. Any equipment that appears to not
meet these criteria shall be removed from the project site at the request of the Client or
representative and at no additional cost to the Client.
5
2.5 Meetings and progress reviews
The Contractor shall meet with City Staff or their designated representative as necessary or as
otherwise agreed upon by both parties to review progress and project expectations
throughout the build.
2.6 What contractor provides and obtains
The Contractor shall provide the necessary supervision, labor, material, equipment and tools
to perform specified trail construction on identified trails and sites, including fuel for any
mechanized equipment or tools and any and all personal protection and safety equipment that
may be required. The contractor must also obtain any Federal, State, or Local permits.
2.7 Timetable
The Contractor shall provide an approximate timetable and schedule detailing how all project
work will be met.
2.8 Guarantee and Warranty
A one (1) year guarantee and warranty will be provided by the Contractor on all work on this
project. Any portions needing replacement or repair within one (1) year from the date of
written acceptance by the City shall be completed by the Contractor at their expense, within a
time frame agreed upon by the City.
6
2.9 Insurance and Contract Requirements
EXECUTION OF CONTRACT
Notification in writing by the City to the successful proposer of the award of the contract
shall be deemed a final contract award. The City and the proposer will enter into a
contract. The proposal submittal form, as submitted and signed by the proposer and the
proposal specifications and provisions contained herein shall become part of the contract.
Any additional work to be performed, as mutually agreed upon by the City and the
proposer, shall also become a part of the contract. Unless it is specifically stated
otherwise on the proposal, the proposal will be awarded to, or placed with, and payment
made to the person or entity that signs the proposal.
REQUIREMENTS OF THE CONTRACT
The successful proposer shall, within 10 days after notification of the award: (a) enter into
a contract in writing with the City covering all matters and things as set forth in this
document and the proposal; (b) carry insurance acceptable to the City covering public
liability, property damage, automobile liability, and worker’s compensation as specified in
this document and specifically below.
1.Compliance with all laws. All work under the contract must be executed in
accordance with all applicable federal, state and local laws, ordinances, rules and
regulations, and the terms of the Conservation Easement.
2.Contract changes. No amendment of the contract will be valid unless made in
writing and signed by both parties and their authorized agents.
3.Notices. All notices required by the contract must be given in writing.
4.Non-Assignability. The Contractor shall not assign the contract, or any part
thereof, to any other person, firm or corporation without the previous written consent of
the City. Such assignment shall not relieve the Contractor from the Contractors’
obligations, or change the terms of the contract.
5.Indemnification. The Contractor agrees to indemnify, defend and hold the City
harmless from and against any and all claims, suits, actions, damages, causes of action, or
attorneys’ fees, arising from any personal injury, loss of life, or damage to person or
property sustained by reason of or as a result of the work performed by the Contractor
under the contract. The Contractor agrees to indemnify, defend and hold the City
harmless from any and all claims, suits, actions, damages, causes of action or attorneys’
fees arising from any personal injury, loss of life, or damage to person or property
sustained by reason of or as a result of the negligence of the Contractor, its employees,
contractors, agents, or assigns.
6.Equal employment opportunity. During the performance of the contract, the
Contractor must be in full compliance with all provisions of the State of Minnesota
relating to employment, including equal employment opportunity requirements.
7
(2.9 Insurance and Contract Requirements Continued)
7.Insurance coverage. The Contractor agrees to maintain the following insurance coverage
during the term of the contract:
Liability Limits
Each
Type of Insurance Occurrence Aggregate
GENERAL LIABILITY:
Bodily Injury $1,500,000 $1,500,000
Property Damage $1,500,000 $1,500,000
Contractual Insurance - Broad Form $1,500,000 $1,500,000
AUTOMOBILE LIABILITY:
Bodily Injury $1,500,000 $1,500,000
Property Damage $1,500,000 $1,500,000
This insurance must include non-owned, hired, or rented vehicles, as well as owned vehicles.
WORKER’S COMPENSATION & OCCUPATIONAL DISEASES: compliance with statutory requirements.
The Contractor shall provide a certificate of insurance in the amounts above. The required insurance
must name the City of Lake Elmo, its agents, officials, employees, and volunteers as additional
insureds, and the certificate of insurance shall state that the City shall receive 10 days written notice
prior to cancellation or termination.
8.Default. The City may terminate the contract at any time if the Contractor is found by the City
to be in default of any of its terms. If the City terminates the contract, the City may procure the work
and the Contractor shall be liable to the City for any excess costs for similar work, unless the
Contractor provides acceptable evidence that failure to perform the contract was due to a cause
beyond the control and without the fault or negligence of the Contractor.
9.Permits and Licenses. Contractor shall obtain, at its own expense, any permits or licenses
which may be required to perform the work under the contract.
10.Data Practices. Contractor shall have access to data collected or maintained by the City as
deemed by the City as necessary to perform the Contractor’s obligation under the contract. Such data
will be provided to the proposer as governed by the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act,
Minnesota Statutes Chapter 13. Contractor agrees to maintain all data obtained from the City
consistent with the requirements of the Data Practices Act. Contractor will not release or disclose the
contents of data classified as not public to any person except at the written direction of the City.
Contractor agrees to defend and indemnify the City from any claim, liability, damage or loss asserted
against the City as a result of the proposer’s failure to comply with the requirements of the Data
Practices Act.
8
(2.9 Insurance and Contract Requirements Continued)
11.Upon termination of the contract, Contractor agrees to return data to the City, as requested by
the City. All books, records, document and accounting procedures and practices of the proposer
relevant to the contract, shall, pursuant to Minnesota Statutes, be subject to examination at all times
by the City, the Legislative Auditor or the State Auditor.
12.Independent Contractor. It is agreed that nothing in this contract is intended or should be
construed in any manner as creating or establishing the relationship of co-partners between the
Contractor and the City or as constituting the Contractor as the agent, representative or employee of
the City for any purpose or in any manner whatsoever.
13.Severability. The provisions of the executed contract are severable. If any portion of the
contract is, for any reason, held by a court of competent jurisdiction to be contrary to law, such
decision shall not affect the remaining provisions of the contract.
14.Waiver. Any waiver by either party of a breach of any provision of the executed contract shall
not affect, in any respect, the validity of the remainder of the executed contract.
15.Entire Agreement. The executed contract supersedes all oral agreements and negotiations
between the Contractor and the City relating to the subject matter hereof, as well as any previous
agreements presently in effect between the parties relating to the subject matter in the contract. Any
alterations, amendments, deletions, or waivers of the provisions of the executed contract shall be valid
only when expressed in writing and duly signed by the parties, unless otherwise provided herein.
16.Venue. The Contractor agrees that this contract shall be construed and governed by the laws of
the State of Minnesota.
9
SECTION 4: TIMELINE AND SCHEDULE
4.1 Optional Pre-bid Site Visit
A site visit may be arranged with the project manager prior to bid submission. Please contact
Ben Prchal at bprchal@lakeelmo.org to arrange a visit.
4.2 Proposal submission deadline (January 17, 2020)
Proposals must be submitted to City Hall - bprchal@lakeelmo.org no later than January 17,
2020 to be considered. Questions regarding the bid process, project, or clarification on
expectations should be directed to Ben Prchal at the email listed above or at 651-747-3911.
4.3 Work Complete (June 30, 2020)
The City of Lake Elmo would like to begin the project as soon as conditions will allow and
achieve a completion date of Mid Summer 2020.
SECTION 5: PROPOSAL SUBMISSION PACKAGE
Each bid proposal must be delivered via email to bprchal@lakeelmo.org by January 17,
2020. The proposal package must contain each of the following in the order which they are
listed.
•Complete the bid worksheet. If more space is needed, please provide a separate sheet
and indicate that a separate sheet is being.
•A recommended project schedule and timetable.
•Three references from previous trail construction projects.
•Portfolio containing descriptions and pictures of at least three past projects similar to this
project. Project descriptions shall include short explanation of work performed, client,
project location, dates, and duration.
•Estimation of future annual trail maintenance costs including materials.
•The Contractor shall include in the proposal price the cost to provide the following:
o Letter of Surety, stating ability to obtain a Performance Bond, and Labor and
Material Bond for 100% of the project amount.
SECTION 3: FINAL INSPECTION
3.1 Final inspection
At the conclusion of the work, the contractor shall demonstrate to the City that the work is fully
complete and in compliance with contract specifications. Any deficiencies shall be promptly and
permanently corrected by the contractor at the contractor’s expense prior to final acceptance of the
work. The City also expects the contractor to provide a GIS file to be provided of the final trail route.
10
SECTION 6: BASIS FOR AWARD AND RIGHT OF REJECTION
6.1 Basis for award
The City reserves the rights to eliminate from consideration for award any or all offers at any
time prior to the award of the contract; to negotiate with bidders in the competitive range;
and to award the contract to the bidders submitting the bid determined to represent the best
values of the City.
6.2 Right of rejection
The City reserves the right to waive any informality in any bid, to reject any or all bids in whole
or part, with or without cause, and/or to accept the proposal that in their judgment will be in
the best interest of the City of Lake Elmo and its Citizens.
6.3 Qualifications and experience
The qualifications and experience of the Contractor in completing similar work will be given
equal weight to price of the bids in determining value of qualified bids. It is considered in the
best interest of the City to allow consideration of award to the lowest bidder or most qualified
bidder regardless of cost.
6.4 Additional information
The City reserves the right to request that the bidder supply additional information prior to
the award of the contract should such action be deemed in the Client's best interest.
11
SECTION 7: BID WORKSHEETS
7.1 Bid Worksheet A (Please know an overflow sheet may be used. Is used indicate so on the form)
Company name:____________________________________________
Contact person:____________________________________________
Contact person’s phone number:______________________________
Contact person’s email:_____________________________________
Company address:___________________________________________
__________________________________________________________
Statement and Detailed Approach to the Project:
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________
References- Please insert names, address, phone numbers and description of similar projects
completed.
1.____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
2.____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
3.____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
12
Provide a detailed list of likely project team members, including skill sets and relevant
experience.
Provide a list of the equipment and tools intended to be used in completing the scope of
work.
Provide a recommended schedule/timetable that allows for work completion per the
specified schedule.
Provide a list of other certifications or memberships (if any), such as the
Professional Trail Builders Association (PTBA), etc.
13
7.2 Bid Worksheet B
●Quantities for each Trail are estimated. Final quantities may change, but the unit price
will be fixed.
●Feature types (as defined in section 9.2) should be separated into individual line items.
●Feature quantities shall be determined by Contractor.
●Provide cost for one round trip mobilization and associated contractor travel fees.
Sunfish Lake Mountain Bike Trail
Type of Work: Unit of Measure: Price/Unit: Est. Cost:
_________ _________
linear feet _________ _________
_________ _________
Est. Quantity:
22,158
22,158
1
1
Subtotal: ___________
Field Layout/
Flagging Tread
Construction
Mapping File
Mobilization
Other
linear feet
_________ _________
_________ _________
_________ _________
_________ _________
___________
14
PART B: PROJECT DETAIL
SECTION 8: FINISHED TRAIL CONSTRUCTION AND MAINTENANCE GUIDELINES
8.1 Trail Design
The construction of this trail must be guided by the sustainable trail principles promulgated by
accepted resources such as the current editions of the Trail Solutions; IMBA’s Guide to Building
Sweet Single-track, Managing Mountain Biking; IMBA’s Guide to Providing Great Riding, Bike
Parks; IMBA’s Guide to New School Trails, and the USDA’s Trail Construction and Maintenance
Notebook.
8.2 Bike Specific Trail Flow
The bike trails proposed for Sunfish Lake would be narrow trails called single-track. Once
established, single-track trails average 18-24” in width, are not paved, reach a broad range of
riders and are designed to flow through natural areas with gradual inclines and declines in
topography. The City is hopeful of modern trail design and construction using sustainable trail
building techniques. The City would like the Contractor to build single-track trails that will have
minimal impact on the environment, resist erosion through proper design, construction and
maintenance, co-exist with the natural environment and blend with the surrounding area:
· Synergy with the landscape: Making the most of what the natural terrain contours present.
· Opposition to user forces: Flow trails maximize the efficiencies afforded by using a bicycle,
and are designed to counteract forces that direct a user off the trail. Bermed turns (where
required) and cambered tread surfaces, for example, promote traction, safety, sustainability and
enjoyment.
·Conservation of momentum: the ideal trail avoids “flow killers” such as sharp turns,
incongruent features and disjointed climbs and descents. Instead, it utilizes undulations and
cambered turns to reward smooth, deliberate riding and maximize forward motions. A flow
trail encourages a better understanding of the bicyclist/bicycle interface, allowing riders to
reach that unique sensation of floating through the landscape
· Leading the user forward: A sense of discovery, combined with a design that maximizes a
rider’s forward momentum, helps to draw the user forward. The trail is never repetitive or
predictable, nor is it “awkward”, with a variety and innovation combining to create an intuitive
feel.
8.3 Trail Construction Best Practices - The City would like the contractor to pay attention to
the graphics page following the descriptions.
To satisfy erosion and sediment control requirements, the trail must be finished as the
project advances. Ideally, all roughed-in corridors will be finished the same day. Any
segments requiring delayed finishing should be planned out in advance to finish as quickly as
possible. Biorolls must also be used to mitigate the effects of erosion during construction.
15
8.4 Corridor Clearing and Trail Crossings
Corridor clearing shall be confined to within five (5’) feet of the trail and back-slope edges. The
City will expect wider clearing where the mountain bike trail crosses over an existing walking
trail. Where the Mountain Bike Trail intersects an existing walking trail a 90 degree
intersection will be expected and slowing techniques such as staggered indentations or barriers
should also be incorporated at the crossings.
8.5 Trail Flagging
A flag line or marked line will be pre-installed by the Contractor which will mark the desired
corridor, but only suggests the tread location based on the Master Trail Plan. The actual tread
location depends on finer analysis by using pin flags or marker which are different from the
master trail line. The final tread path will need to be approved by the City or their designated
representative(s).
8.6 Debris
Cut and scatter all branches and brush cut as part of the trail development. No debris shall be
left within ten (10) feet of the trail. Butt-ends of any sawed limbs must face away from the trail.
8.7 Rocks
All rock embedded in the trail surface should be stable.
8.8 Woody Material
Woody material such as stumps, logs and brush shall be removed from the trail tread. No
stumps less than twelve (12”) inches in diameter shall be left within three (3’) feet of the trail
tread.
8.9 Fall Zone Clearing
Areas adjacent to dynamic trail segments where visitors have a greater potential to exit the
immediate trail corridor will be cleared of impact focusers; butt-end branches, stumps and
rocks under six (6) inches in diameter. Clearing should take place 3 feet on both sides of the
trail.
8.10 Back-Slope/ Out-Slope
Back-slope of trail should be graded to three-to-one (3:1) slope or until it matches the existing
slope. In areas where the back-slope has the potential to become part of the active tread it
must be finished to trail tread specifications.
Out-slope should range between 3-5% towards the downhill side of the trail.
16
8.11 Trail, Finished Condition
Hand finishing and grading of the trail tread, back-slope, down-slope spoils, and drainage
features shall result in a surface that matches the texture of the surrounding forest floor while
enabling water to drain off the trail.
8.12 Spoils Stabilization
All excavated material not used in the trail tread or other trail structures must be stabilized to
prevent erosion. Spoils shall be distributed in a thin layer adjacent to the trail tread. When
possible, spoils should be mulched with native materials to discourage erosion while native
seed stocks reestablished.
8.13 Turns
All turns are in-sloped or "bermed" where appropriate. Use generally acceptable values for
turn radii and grades across the turns. All turns must include an entrance and exit rolling grade
dip.
8.14 Grade Reversals
A designed grade reversal or constructed rolling grade dip should occur as often as necessary.
Any grade reversal must be strongly anchored to discourage short cutting. The uphill and
downhill cuts of the trail also should not exceed more than 10% of the slope of the hill/
elevation.
Grade reversals also double as flow elements: rollers and pump/rhythm sections. In this
context, grade reversal shape, size and placement should reflect its placement within the
system. Specific details will be determined by the contractor in partnership with the City.
8.15 Above Grade Earthen Structures
Any portion of trail constructed above the grade of its surroundings must be approved by the
City in terms of design and material before construction.
Fill structures must have a fill slope of at least two-to-one (2:1) or the angle of repose of the
local soil, whichever is greater. If it can be demonstrated to the City that a retaining wall or
other man-made structure is necessary to avoid environmental damage, there may be a
substitution for a fill slope with permission of the City. Fill structures must be completely
stabilized and compacted. Acceptable techniques include track-packing or compaction via a
dedicated tamping unit. Raw soil faces that do not become tread must be mulched and
seeded in the same fashion as spoils and satisfy the terms of the project erosion control
methodologies.
17
Examples of above-grade earthen structures include grade-reversals (“rollers”) and turn pads
on in-sloped switchbacks.
8.16 Water Diversions
The majority of the tread should be out-sloped. When not possible or desirable due to
purpose-built in-sloping, resource concerns or obstruction, water can be directed down the
trail for up to six (6) feet before a water diversion location (grader reversal).
8.17 Invasive Species
To reduce the spread of invasive plant species, the following protocols are required:
1 All hand tools and mechanized equipment must be free of invasive seeds and clean of any
dirt and mud when entering the project site.
2 Consideration should be made while trail clearing and construction through areas occupied
by invasive species (such areas to be identified by the client) as to not propagate as
construction progresses.
3 Imported surface/organic material is prohibited.
8.18 Filter Strips
Filter strips are vegetated areas down-slope of the trail corridor intended to treat sheet flows
coming off the tread. Filter strips function by slowing down flow velocities, filtering out
sediments and providing an opportunity for infiltration into the underlying soils. Properly
mulched spoils may be designated as part of the filter strip. Filter strips shall not be used as
regular travel-ways for equipment and materials. Areas with inadequate filter strip capacity
above water-ways may require installation of formal erosion control measures to satisfy
erosion and sediment control methodologies.
8.19 Mechanized Equipment Best Practices
All track marks will be raked smooth. Affected area will be finished to have a natural shape,
spoils piles rounded, smoothed and cleared of significant brush, blade edges blended, etc. A
spill kit suitable for five gallons of fluid will be onsite and within 200 yards of mechanized
equipment whenever equipment is being operated.
8.20 Preservation of Vegetation
The Contractor shall exercise care to preserve the natural landscape, including trees and
shrubs, and shall conduct construction operations to prevent any unnecessary
18
destruction, scarring, or defacing of the natural surroundings in the vicinity of the work. Except
where clearing is required for permanent works or excavation operations, all trees, native
shrubbery, and vegetation, shall be preserved and protected from damage by the Contractor's
construction operations and equipment. The City does not want to see trees larger than four
(4") inches in diameter removed, unless it is an invasive tree such as Buckthorn; as determined
by the City Trees larger than 4" marked for removal will need to be approved by the City prior
to removal.
All unnecessary destruction, scarring, damage or defacing of the landscape resulting from the
Contractor's operations, shall be properly repaired, replanted, reseeded or otherwise
corrected as directed by the City and at the Contractor's expense.
After completion of the work, all areas disturbed by construction that do not require
landscaping or planting, shall be scarified and left in a condition which will facilitate natural
vegetation, provide for proper drainage and prevent erosion.
8.21 Ground Disturbance
The grading limits along the trail corridor are defined by the approved tread width plus
additional width defined by the required back-sloping, unless further excavation is required for
prescribed features, as approved, and performed according to 8.20. Rutting should be avoided
outside grading limits along the corridor, by limiting traffic intensity and avoiding wet soil
conditions, and corrected as per 8.20.
19
3-5%
20
SECTION 9: MAPS
9.1 Field Design - Site Topography
9.2 Soil Analysis
●Map with Soil Types
9.3 Access, Supply and Staging
21
February 12, 2020
Letter of Recommendation
For: Trail Source
13282 Derryglenn Ct
Rosemount, MN 55068
Mr. Prchal,
I understand that Trail Source has an opportunity to help Lake Elmo with a trail
building project and I want to speak up on their behalf. My perspective on Trail
Source has been informed by eleven years of experience with them working for
Dakota County Facilities Management and Parks Departments. I am pleased to
provide a letter of recommendation for Trail Source, builder of recreational trails and
boardwalks.
Over the past eleven years Trail Source has been the go to resource for trail
development and trail rehabilitation for Dakota County. Time and again Trail Source
went above and beyond to provide superior craftsmanship and increased
sustainability for the trails in our parks, both hiking and mountain biking. Trail Source
always employs their experience with sustainable trail Best Management Practices
(BMP) to find the best solutions for any project, either new trails or rehabilitation of
failing existing trails.
One project I am particularly proud of is the rehabilitation of the trail system at
Lebanon Hills Regional Park. Trail Source was able to turn a maintenance and
erosion nightmare into one for the most used trail systems in the metro. When Trail
Source arrived at the site it became immediately clear that they were able to visualize
solutions based on what they knew worked. They quickly outlined and implemented
an approach which over time has proven to save on staff time and use of tax payer
dollars.
The on-site personnel of Trail Source did a great job in keeping the existing parking
area and trail operational throughout the project. The project workmanship was
excellent, and all issues were addressed in a timely manner.
In summary, Dakota County would not hesitate to recommend the services of Trail
Source to you and others and plan to hire them again in the future.
Sincerely,
Josh Kinney, PLA, ASLA
Senior Project Manager – Dakota County Capital Project Management
DAKOTA COUNTY ADMINISTRATION CENTER
1590 Hwy 55 Hastings, MN 55033
952-891-7016 cell – 612-387-6260
Capital Projects
Dakota County
Administration Center
1590 Highway 55
Hastings, MN 55033
651.438.4388
Fax: 651.438.8455
www.co.dakota.mn.uss
Ben Prchal
3800 Laverne Avenue North
Lake Elmo, MN 55042
Dear Ben,
This is a letter of reference for Tim Wegner, owner of Trail Source LLC. I have worked with Trail Source
on a couple of singletrack trail projects in the Northwest metro area. The most recent project was at
Hillside City Park, in Elk River. This project was done in two phases, the Eastern half of the park had
trails constructed in 2017, and the Western half had trails constructed in 2018. The Eastern half of the
park was constructed by YRU Trail Building LLC. The Western half of the park was constructed by Trail
Source. Both halves of the park have similar topography with the South side flatter than the North side,
and same soil content. The soil is a mixture of gravel and sand in many areas, which can be challenging
to work with for a natural surface trail.
The East side of the park has required maintenance from day one. Keeping the outslope established and
defined has been a challenge in some areas, and we have needed to add grade reversal features to
prevent erosion and cupping of the trail. A couple of areas need tread resurfacing once a year. All this
does not mean it is badly constructed trail, as maintenance is often expected as an ongoing need.
However, how the trail was constructed is inferior to the West side of the park regarding erosion control
and overall engineering.
The West side of the park was constructed by Trail Source. This half of the park has required almost no
maintenance whatsoever. Grade reversal features were engineered into the trail to do a much better
job of preventing erosion, resulting in much lower maintenance needs, and a lower environmental
impact over the long term life of the trail. The trail is constructed in a manner where it is more popular
with mountain bikers, and is considered the favorite side of the park for many riders.
Tim was very nice to work with from day one, and explained their process in detail to both City staff and
the park volunteers. He communicated well throughout the project, checking in and occasionally
clarifying smaller details to ensure the finished product would meet or exceed everyone’s expectations.
During the construction of the trail, Trail Source employees suggested minor changes in the proposed
trail alignment for a couple of areas, and those suggestions were approved and implemented, resulting
in a better overall layout in that area as compared to the initial proposed trail alignment.
I would recommend Trail Source for any trail construction project, as Tim and his crew have mastered
the art of building enjoyable trails for all users, while minimizing maintenance costs. Communication is
great throughout the process, and expectations are always exceeded with his work.
Sincerely,
Graydon Betts
MORC Trail Steward – Hillside City Park Elk River, Bertram Chain of Lakes Monticello