Item 3.10 Park Proposal0
CITY 0to
MINNESOTA
DEPARTMENT INFORMATION
Request for
City Council Action
ORIGINATING DEPARTMENT
REQUESTOR:
MEETING DATE:
Parks & Recreation
Parks & Recreation Director Demant
March 22, 2021
PRESENTER(s)
REVIEWED BY:
ITEM #:
Consent
City Administrator/Finance Director Flaherty
3.10 Park Proposal
STRATEGIC VISION
MEETS:
THE CITY OF OTSEGO:
Is a strong organization that is committed to leading the community through innovative
communication.
Has proactively expanded infrastructure to responsibly provide core services.
Is committed to delivery of quality emergency service responsive to community needs and
expectations in a cost-effective manner.
X
Is a social community with diverse housing, service options, and employment opportunities.
X
Is a distinctive, connected community known for its beauty and natural surroundings.
AGENDA ITEM DETAILS
RECOMMENDATION:
City staff is recommending the City Council accept the proposal from HKGi for park planning and design.
ARE YOU SEEKING APPROVAL OF A CONTRACT?
IS A PUBLIC HEARING REQUIRED?
Yes
No
BACKGROUND/JUSTIFICATION:
During the 2021 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) budget planning process, elements of the Parks and
Recreation System Masterplan were included in the CIP. Three projects were identified as priority projects
by analyzing data through community, Council, Commission, and Staff input. Two of these projects are
listed below, the third project, wayfinding design and implementation strategy, is being delayed due to the
potential of receiving a SHIP grant with the application becoming available in August. All were
unanimously recommended by the Parks and Recreation Commission and Administrative Sub -Committee
to include in the 2021 CIP.
Each of these projects requires an initial planning phase that includes input from the Council, Commission,
Staff, and community. Staff is recommending that both projects move forward simultaneously which
would create budget and planning efficiencies. Staff have worked with HKGi to put together a proposal for
each of these projects. This planning is critical for the City to complete before being able to apply for grant
funding.
The CIP descriptions and funding sources are listed below. The Parks and Recreation Commission reviewed
this proposal during the February and March Commission meetings. During the February meeting,
commissioners did have questions that representatives from HKGi were able to answer at the March
meeting. The Parks and Recreation Commission voted unanimously to recommend the City Council
approve HKGi's proposal.
IMPROVE RIVER ACCESS AND CONNECTION ALONG THE MISSISSIPPI RIVER CORRIDOR
The goal of this planning would be to provide a connection from Norin Landing to Carrick's Landing while
improving parking and signage at the Nashua and Carrick's boat landings. 2021 would be the initial
planning phase with 2022 being the implementation phase.
IP Irlantifiarl Fi inrlina fnr Imnrnvements of River Access
Year
Revenue Source
City Fund for Expense
Amount
2021
Park Dedication
203
$12,000
2022
Park Dedication
203
$130,000
IMPROVEMENTS OF THE BALLFIELDS AT PRAIRIE PARK
The Parks and Recreation System Master planning process identifies enhancing the Prairie Park ballfields as
a priority project. These enhancements would potentially include bathrooms, concessions, higher
backstops, and improved dugouts. The first phase of this process, would include developing a masterplan
for the park so that future improvements would be able to be phased in. The second phase of this project
would be to begin the improvement process.
rlp Irlantifiari Funrtina fnr Imnrnvements to the OPP BaIIfIeIdS
Year Revenue Source
City Fund for Expense
Amount
2021
Park Development
203
$15,000
2022
Park Development
203
$400,000
SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS ATTACHED:
• Proposal
Presentation to Parks and Recreation Commission
PnSSIRI F MnTInN
PLEASE WORD MOTION AS YOU WOULD LIKE IT TO APPEAR IN THE MINUTES:
Motion to accept the proposal from HKGi and approve the park planning and design services for the Prairie
Park Ballfield Improvements and River Access Improvements in the amount of $27,150.
RI IIIC�FT INFnRM�TInN
FUNDING:
BUDGETED:
Fund 203 -Park Development
Yes
Creating Places that Enrich People's Lives
February 11, 2021
Ross Demant, Parks and Recreation Director
City of Otsego
Prairie Center
8899 Nashua Ave NE
Otsego, MN 55330
RE: 2021 Park Projects
Dear Ross,
HKGi is pleased to submit the following planning and design services proposal to support the
City in development of the following projects:
• Otsego Prairie Park Ballfield Improvements
• River Access Improvements at Carrick's Landing and Nashua Landing
We are excited to have the opportunity to build on the work we completed with the City's
Parks System Plan and to facilitate an efficient process that will include staff and Park
Commission engagement and input, resident input to evaluate concept ideas, and
development of plans for implementation.
Our process includes the assumption that we will be able to overlap meetings whenever
possible. For instance, the kickoff meetings for the two projects could be combined into one
meeting. These efficiencies will allow us to spend more time on design and planning.
Otsego Prairie Park Ballfield Improvements
Program elements to be explored in Prairie Park include: recommended improvements to the
existing ballfields (such as, evaluating the desire for improved dugouts, concessions, and
spectator amenities), the potential integration of more play fields west of the current
ballfields, and potential future location of archery range.
Utilizing the materials created as part of the Otsego Park System Plan, we will work with the
City Council, Park Commission, and City Staff to identify challenges and desires for the Prairie
Park Ballfields. We will then explore opportunities for potential improvements through
community and stakeholder engagement methods. These methods could include an online
survey and/or a stakeholder meeting. After reviewing options and input with the Park
Commission, we will work with staff to develop a concept recommendation with identified
priorities to meet a desired budget for ballfield improvements. Additionally, we will suggest
funding options, such as applying for an Outdoor Recreation Grant, and potential to support
the grant application. Design plans and specifications scope to be determined based on
community input and available funding.
In this task we will consider recommendations from the Otsego Park System Plan:
City of Otsego 2021 Park Projects Proposal 1
Improve Prairie Park Ballfields Complex
The four ballfields at Prairie Park are in need of upgrades and additional amenities in order to
function well for tournaments and multiple games. The following improvements should be made:
Expand and formalize parking lots
• Add concessions
• Add permanent restrooms
• Add covered dugouts
River Access Improvements Design
Carrick's Landing and Nashua Landing will be evaluated for improvements that support non -
motorized boat launching and landing. These two locations are important spots along the
Mississippi River State Water Trail for providing access to retail, food, and services. We will
work with staff to identify challenges and opportunities at these two sites, suggest options for
improvements, survey the community, gain input from the City Council and Park Commission,
and make final recommendations for river access improvements. Our process will include the
development of schematic level design plans that will serve as a starting point for developing
construction documents.
In this task we will review and incorporate the recommendations from the Otsego Park System
Plan:
Consider adding campsites for Mississippi River Trail bicyclists and river paddlers
Carrick's Landing should be considered as a site to add campsites for paddlers and bicyclists that are
passing through the City. Amenities should include lock boxes, river access, trail access, and
proximity to retail areas.
Nashua Ave Boat Launch
• Improve boat launch with added amenities, such as signage, parking area, and more
formal non -motorized boat landing
• Add accessibility
• Add signage from Hwy 39
Meetings and Deliverables:
• Both tasks
• Kick -Off Meeting with Staff (one meeting to include both tasks)
• Meet with Parks and Recreation Commission to Review Process
• Site Visits and Evaluations
• Site Analyses
• Engage Stakeholders and Community
• Summarize Input and Preferences
• Develop Concept Plans
• Develop Cost Estimates
City of Otsego 2021 Park Projects Proposal z
PROFESSIONAL FEES
HKGi proposes to accomplish the above -described scope of work not to exceed $26,600 plus
reimbursable expenses of mileage and printing not to exceed $550. We will bill time on an
hourly basis and all expenses for travel or printing will be billed at cost.
This process includes an assumption that some meetings will be in -person and some will be
virtual. In addition, we plan to combine meetings (Kickoff, coordination, and Park
Commission) among the two projects in order to stay efficient and productive during the
process.
Task
Fees
Prairie Park Ballfield Improvements Concept
$14,950
River Access Improvements Design
$11,650
Subtotal
$26,600
Expenses
$550
Total with Expenses
$27,150
We look forward to the opportunity of helping the City of Otsego with these important
community projects. Please call or email if you have any additional questions or need
additional information. I can be reached at gabriellePhkgi.com or 608-852-3370 (cell).
Sincerely,
Gabrielle Grinde, PLA
Associate
HKGi
City of Otsego 2021 Park Projects Proposal 3
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City Projects / Actions
(Ten -Year Capital Funding Implementation Plan)
The following projects have been identified to be incorporated into the City's CIP for future parks and recreation
development. The table identifies the project, a cost range, and the priority level. The priority levels are described below:
► Short term projects are highest priority, and ideally would be completed before the long term projects.
► Long term projects are important projects, but due to high cost, non -immediate needs, or more planning that needs
to be done, these won't be completed until after the short term projects are complete. If opportunities arise that
make the long term projects more feasible in the short term, they will be completed earlier.
► ing initiatives are projects that are ongoing and funded by general or operational funds. These projects Mn
Ongoy
include general maintenance and replacement to existing facilities.
Table 7. City Projects and Actions
Short Term Projects
Prairie Park Pickleball Courts $25,000 $150,000
Prairie Park
Splash Pad improvements and restroom building
$50,000
$250,000
Prairie Park
Land acquisition: Potentially purchase additional land to the south,
Cost will vary based on market and
primarily for athletic fields
willing sellers
Prairie Park
Athletic field improvements: Expand and improve ballfields (add covered
$100,000
$350,000
dugouts, concessions, more fields)
Great River Regional Trail Master
Partner with Wright County to complete master plan
$10,000
$10,000
Plan
Mississippi River (Norin Landing
Install Paddle Port facilities at two locations to facilitate a start and end
$5,000
$15,000
and Carrick's Landing)
point for kayaking
Future Highlands of River Pointe
Complete a master plan and implement park improvements to potentially
natural area
include: forest and shoreland restoration, soft surface hiking and
$150,000
$500,000
mountain bike trails, connection to Crow River Regional Trail, kayak/
canoe launch
Trail Connection to Elk River
Complete the trail along Parish Ave to create a safe walking and biking
$300X0
$1,000,000
connection to downtown Elk River business district.
Mississippi River state water trail
Promote Mississippi River State Water Trail with signage and information
on the City's website; Develop summer recreation programs that
$5,000
$50,000
encourage its use
Nashua Ave Boat Launch
Improve boat launch with added amenities, such as signage, parking area,
and more formal non -motorized boat landing; Add accessibility; Add
$50,000
$150,000
signage from Hwy 39
Carrick's Landing
Walking bridge will be constructed across stormwater pond
$150,000
$200,000
Carrick's Landing
Add non -motorized boat launch at north end of park
$30,000
$100,000
Carrick's Landing
Add more native landscaping along the trail and stormwater pond
$50,000
$2001000
Carrick's Landing
Encourage river views with formalized overlooks and selective clearing
$50,000
$200,000
along the river's edge
Carrick's Landing
Add benches, picnic areas, and lighting along the trail
$25,000
$250,000
Future Community / Recreation
Determine the need and desire of the community for a community center
Center Feasibility Study
with fitness center, indoor track, meeting rooms, and potential indoor
$502000
$100,000
aquatic facility; Potentially partner with school district to build a joint -
use facility; Ensure financial feasibility (potential referendum)
Add dog park near Northwood Park
City -owned land. Potential to build new off -leash dog park
$50,000
$100,000
Trail Connection to Albertville
Complete the trail along Labeaux Ave to create a safe walking and biking
S500,000
$750,000
connection to Albertville (Co Rd 39 to 70th St NE)
79 Otsego Parks +Recreation System Master Plan DULY 2019
Recommendations for ParksAVATA
and Facilities
00 Manage Growth and
Development
Otsego is growing rapidly. Residential neighborhoods are
quickly occupying space that was once bucolic farmland.
The City should regularly evaluate park dedication and
park development standards in order to ensure its vision
of parks and trails is realized.
Q Provide Access to Neighborhood
Parks
Establish park service districts to ensure that
neighborhood parks are approximately located to provide
1/2-mile service area from most residents. Continue
to build Neighborhood Parks as new developments are
added.
Q � ® Develop New Neighborhood
Parks According to
Framework
Utilize a framework for new park development.
(Neighborhood Park Development standards)
► Evaluate a new park location according to the Park
System Master Plan. Is the park in the right location
to serve new residents? Is it located near the existing
or future trail network?
► Conduct a neighborhood meeting to ask residents what
they are looking for in their neighborhood park.
► Use a palette of elements from which to choose what
goes into a new park (playground, tennis, basketball,
multi -use field, shelter, parking lot, irrigation).
Consider distribution of facilities when planning new
facilities. Do we have enough of this facility in the
City?
► Consider current trends in recreation when planning
new facilities, such as nature play features. Will this
facility continue to be used long into the future?
® Manage Park Assets
Utilize an asset management system to plan
for maintenance and replacement costs for existing and
proposed facilities.
®Improve Prairie Park as the
Primary Community Park
► Pickleball courts — 3 dedicated courts
► Identify land acquisition to expand Prairie Park
► Improvements to splash pad — above ground features,
add supportive amenities, such as indoor restrooms/
changing room
Improve Prairie Park Ballfields
Complex
The four ballfields at Prairie Park are in need of upgrades
anI additional amenities in order to function well
for tournaments and multiple games. The following
improvements should be made:
► Expand and formalize parking lots
► Add concessions
► Add permanent restrooms
► Add covered dugouts
�® Partner with School District to
Provide Athletic Fields
Consider a Joint Use Agreement with the Elk River School
District to increase the number of athletic fields available
to associations for practices and games.
®� Undertake a Feasibility Study for
Prairie Center Improvements
► A Feasibility Study involves hiring an architect or
building expert to study the existing Prairie Center
building and systems, identify a set of potential
improvements, and determine potential costs
and impacts to the building by making those
improvements.
► The goal of the study will be to understand the
potential costs and impact to expanding the Prairie
Center building by adding a gymnasium. Other
potential improvements may be identified during the
study process.
► When making the decision to either make additions
to the Prairie Center or build a new facility, the City
should be sure to consider a phasing plan that will
allow for future building improvements as the City
grows.
47 Otsego Parks +Recreation System Master Plan DULY 2019
Complete a Statistically Valid
Community Survey
► A statistically valid community survey is run by a
market research company that conducts a random
sample survey of residents with a calculated margin
of error.
► The goal of the survey will be to gain insight into
desires for a future indoor community recreation
facility.
Add a Dog Parkin the Southeast Part
of the City
Existing Ciry-owned land near Northwood Park could be
an ideal location for a second dog park in the City. There is
growing demand for off -leash dog areas in the City.
®Q Consider adding campsites
for Mississippi River Trail
bicyclists and river paddlers
Carrick's Landing should be considered as a site to add
campsites for paddlers and bicyclists that are passing
through the City. Amenities should include lock boxes,
river access, trail access, and proximity to retail areas.
Consider adding a disc golf course
somewhere in the City
As disc golf is a growing trend in recreation, the City
should consider adding a disc golf course to an existing
or future park in the City, potentially in partnership with
Wright County at Otsego County Park.
Planning with the Future in
Mind
As new projects are planned, designed, and
constructed, it is important to remember that
Otsego is a growing community. While facilities
that exist today were built for a population of
10,000-201000, facilities built over the next 5-10
years should be designed while considering a future
population of 20,000-30,000, but also recognize
that those same facilities may need to be expanded
or upgraded to meet even larger populations in the
next decades. Future projects should incorporate
phasing plans in order to plan for organized
additions and improvements.
DULY 2019 System Plan 48
River Access and Recreation
With over twelve miles of river frontage, there are many
opportunities for river recreation in Otsego. Current river access is
provided at Norin Landing and Nashua Landing. Carrick's Landing
has parkland adjacent to the river, but does not provide formalized
access. The Mississippi River through Otsego is classified as a
Recreational Wild and Scenic River by the MN DNR. See this website
for more 1nfOTmatlOn: httos•//www.dnr.state.mn.us/waters/watermgmt section/
wild scenic/wsrivers/mississippi.html
Potential improvements and recreation facilities include:
► Paddle Launches
• gradually sloped aggregate or paved area located at a river's
edge
should be in an area where there is not a swift current
• should be close to parking for loading/unloading canoes,
kayaks, and paddleboards
could include rental kiosks with paddling equipment
signage should indicate paddling routes, maps, and general
safety guidelines
► Overlooks
• should be located in areas with desirable viewsheds and
prominence of site lines
• facilities could include boardwalks or piers over the edge of
the river
interpretive signage should describe the view and importance
of the area
• should be close to parlring lot or trail access
selective tree clearing should be utilized to open up views
► Beaches
• should be located in areas where there are natural sandy
beaches
• ensure that current is not swift, and if so, identify with
signage
• selective tree clearing should open up views
• benches, picnic tables, and natural play features (boulders,
logs, etc.) should be located on high ground
parking lot or trail access should be nearby
► Fishing piers
Paddle launches
Beach areas
• should be located in areas of shallow water where fish gather
• should be designed to be ADA accessible with walkways from parking areas or trails
railings should be designed to facilitate fishing pole access and protect user from slipping into the water
/ Natural surface trails for hiring and mountain bilging
DULY 2019 System Plan 34