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! 5.3 Open Spaces Development of Key Central Open Space The development of a high amenity central open space approximately in the center of the ! redevelopment site is considered to be a key early implementation step. After the new ■ east-west parkway, it is the major organizing element of the interior of the site. Removal of the shopping center will alter the current image of the site, but given the numerous other problematic elements of the area it will not go far to creating a new, positive charac- ter in the minds of developers or the community. It is important to begin creating this positive character and image for the property from the outset and to have this park facility act as a focal point for the new development. ■ Network of Open Spaces Throughout Development The creation of a key central open space is just one of the elements re- quired to assure a high level of pe- destrian friendliness and an inviting R atmosphere. The completion of an ! integrated system of open spaces . throughout the development is a ne- cessity that fulfills both aesthetic and . functional purposes. The network will r' - serve to connect the various ele- ments of the development to each other. It will also help foster connec- tions at the edges of the development with the rest of the community and ! to the planned regional park facility north of Silver Lake. It is important to provide internal pathways that allow people throughout the site convenient access to the main arterial for transit connections and to the new retail hub located near the existing Cub store. The open space network will also serve as the location of an integrated stormwater manage- ment system that will connect through the site. Linkage with Hennepin Parks Regional Facility Linking the redevelopment area with the anticipated new Hennepin County Regional Park facility north of Silver Lake is an important concern for the project. Successfully accom- plishing this will not be simple as it is physically isolated from the community. The con- nections will need to be made along both Silver Lake Rd, where there is one segment of ! narrow sidewalk, and along Stinson Blvd, which will require discussions with neighboring . Columbia Heights. Both cities and the Metropolitan Council will need to work together to assure appropriate connections are made between these two major facilities. Northwest QUadrant Redevelopment Plan St. Anthony Village Page 5.5