EDA Packet 12.19.17 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Sidewalks serve several purposes within a community, including providing alternative transportation routes for individuals who choose not to drive, provide safe routes for exercise, provide connections to neighborhood parks and provide opportunities for neighbors to connect with each other. The City should encourage sidewalks as part of new developments within the urban area. The City has completed an update to the existing Existing and Proposed Trails Plan (see Map xx — Existing and Proposed Trails). This new plan shows the potential trail routes in the City that are desired by the community. Different trail types require different locational needs. Table 6-9 (Locational Criteria for Trail Types) provides guidance on the most desirable locations for different trail types. HUGO 2040 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE General Guidelines for Greenway, Trail and Sidewalk Development The following guidelines apply to Hugo's trail system: Use the Existing and Proposed Trails Map (Map 6-5) as a general guide for trail development, but work with residents, landowners, and developers in designing and constructing specific trails. This plan does not recommend acquiring land for trails through eminent domain. 2. Provide trails that link important areas of the City. For example, provide trails that link major residential areas to schools, the downtown area, parks, and regional trails. 3. Do not expect the City to design, fund, build, and maintain every trail in Hugo. Snowmobilers and equestrians, in particular, have worked with private landowners to provide trails on private land and they should continue to do this. The City can help coordinate planning efforts between the various organizations that are interested in developing trails in Hugo. 4. Design the trail system to be accessible to people with physical disabilities. Guidelines for developing accessible trails are available from many sources, including the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. 5. Provide trail loops of various lengths that allow users to return to their starting point without backtracking. 6. Although topography can add interest to a trail, avoid constructing trails in areas that will require extensive cut and fill. 7. Design and construct trails with proposed development. Do not wait until after development has already occurred. 8. Provide a maintenance program that ensures trails will be properly maintained. Poorly maintained trails are more of a liability than an asset. 9. Trails should be planned to connect to other nearby regional trials and trails in other communities. PARKS, TRAILS AND OPEN SPACE 148