2015.08.12 Parks Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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Mountain Biking Trail Proposal in 2010 In 2010, the first summer after the property was purchased, an informal proposal was made to build mountain biking trails throughout the property. The Parks Commission expressed disinterest in having the trails go throughout the entire property and entering into a long-term maintenance and use agreement with Minnesota Off -Road Cyclists. Irish Meadows Proposal in 2011 A proposal was made by Dave Percival and Gary Wilson, representing the University of Minnesota, with their vision for "Irish Meadows". "Irish Meadows" was to be a facility capable of hosting large collegiate cross country invitationals as well as high school and community cross country races. The presentation was also made to the City Council at their meeting of June 20, 2011. The City Council directed that subcommittee be formed to work with Percival and Wilson. Residents near the park property were invited to participate on the subcommittee in addition to Commission representatives. The subcommittee had one meeting after which Percival and Wilson indicated that they were no longer interested in pursuing the project. General Improvements made in 2012 In 2012, the parking lot off of Irish Avenue was expanded to better accommodate the park users. Improved signage was installed to identify the park and inform users of the applicable park rules. 3. RC CAR PROPOSAL: At the meeting of June 10, 2015 Steve Hanke presented a proposal to build a radio controlled car and truck race track and driving area at Irish Avenue Park. The RC cars and trucks would be primarily battery powered with electric motors. Hanke demonstrated how an RC car sounds as it is driven and shared that they are quiet and would not disturb neighbors, horseback riders, walkers, dogs, etc. The hobby is for kids of all ages but primarily ages 10 and up. Because the average run time per battery is 15 minutes, a driver would be at the park for approximately 60 to 90 minutes at a time. The track would be built and maintained by volunteers. It would be temporary and easy to move or re -locate. The suggested track size was 100' by 40' with a practice driving space. Hanke proposed that the track be constructed near the existing parking lot off of Irish Avenue, to provide easy access. Hanke asked for support including clearing of the area (4-6 hours of skid steer work), tubing costs (estimated at $300), and future mowing. The Parks Commission unanimously approved the use of Irish Avenue Park for a radio controlled car track and agreed to provide city support (including initial groundwork and plastic piping) to the volunteers that will build and maintain the track. -2- RC Car Track August 12, 2015