2013.03.13 Parks Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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HARDWOOD CREEK REGIONAL TRAIL MASTER PLAN TRAIL SEGMENT 411 DETAIL DESCRIPTION AND ALIGNMENT INFORMATION (I OF 2) SEGMENT DESCRIPTION / OVERALL CHARACTER The proposed Hardwood Creek Regional Trail continues to follow the abandoned rail corridor down to 140th Street, which is also expected to be purchased by WCRRA in 2013. After making the street crossing, the trail heads west along the south side of 140th Street until it connects with an existing city trail along Fenway Avenue. The south side of the street was selected due to a wider boulevard and fewer crossings of private driveways. Once to Fenway Avenue, the regional trail follows an existing city trail that is in good physical condition. Relative to active rail corridor south of 140th Street, the trail alignment along Fenway Avenue is more pleasant, convenient, and safe. The trail is also 10 feet wide and consistent with regional standards. As shown on the aerial, there are only three at -grade crossings encountered, with the one at 140th Street/Highway 61 likely to have enhanced crosswalk features and markings. In each of these cases, the City and County will coordinate roadway markings and signage treatments consistent with MN DNR and Mn/DOT standards — which may change as these roads are upgraded over time. DEVELOPMENT ISSUES, CONSTRAINTS AND ENHANCEMENT OPPORTUNITIES There are no major development constraints along this segment of trail. The main development issue is that locating the trail on the south side of 140th Street would require removal of an existing 5 or 6 foot wide concrete sidewalk. Otherwise, development of this segment is relatively straightforward. BIGHT -OF -WAY AND PRIVATE PROPERTY FACTORS/ALTERNATIVE ALIGNMENTS With the acquisition of the abandoned rail corridor between 145th and 140th Streets, there are no right-of-way issues of significance along this segment. There are also no apparent private property encroachment issues along 140th Street either as long as the trail stays within the street right-of-way by essentially following the existing sidewalk alignment. As shown on the aerial, an optional longer-term alignment for the Hardwood Creek Regional Trail is shown, which would only occur if or when the active railroad tracks are abandoned. This is covered in more detail on page 55. Looking north at 140th Street, where the trail will fallow the abandoned railroad corridor. Washington -= County Avenue. The trail will be located on the south (right)side of the street where the sidewalk is currently located (Above) As shown, the trail will be on the south side of the street to avoid crossing private driveways, and where there is more space for the trail to placed within the existing right-of-way. -- 48